vocabulary Flashcards
ensure /ɪnˈʃʊr/
(also insure especially in North American English)
to make sure that something happens or is definite
ensure something We are working to ensure the safety of people in the city.
ensure somebody something Victory ensured them a place in the final.
ensure something for somebody The system ensures equal access to education for all children.
spatula /ˈspætʃələ/
a tool with a wide flat part that is not sharp, used for mixing and spreading things, especially in cooking and painting
assignment /əˈsaɪnmənt/
a task or piece of work that somebody is given to do,usually as part of their job or studies
Students are required to complete all homework assignments.
You will need to complete three written assignments per semester.
artificial /ˌɑːrtɪˈfɪʃl/
made or produced to copy something natural; not real
strip /strɪp/
a long narrow piece of paper, metal, cloth, etc.
a strip of material
Cut the meat into strips.
twist /twɪst/
[countable] the action of turning something with your hand, or of turning a part of your body
She gave the lid another twist and it came off.
He gave a shy smile and a little twist of his head.
He finished him off with a quick twist of the knife.
contraption /kənˈtræpʃn/
a machine or piece of equipment that looks strange or complicated and possibly does not work well
-She showed us a strange contraption that looked like a satellite dish.
rebate /ˈriːbeɪt/
- an amount of money that is paid back to you because you have paid too much
You may be entitled to a rebate on your car insurance.
- an amount of money that is taken away from the cost of something, before you pay for it synonym discount
The maximum cash rebate available is about $4 800.
i.e. /ˌaɪ ˈiː/
used to explain exactly what the previous thing that you have mentioned means (from Latin ‘id est’)
the basic essentials of life, i.e. housing, food and water
perform /pərˈfɔːrm/
- perform (something) to entertain an audience by playing a piece of music, acting in a play, etc.
Visiting artists will perform their music and poetry.
- perform something to do something, such as a piece of work, task or duty;SYNONYM carry out
She performs an important role in our organization.
makeover /ˈmeɪkəʊvər/
the process of improving the appearance of a person or a place, or of changing the impression that something gives
She won a complete makeover in a magazine competition.
sighting /ˈsaɪtɪŋ/
an occasion when somebody sees somebody/something, especially something unusual or something that lasts for only a short time
a reported sighting of the Loch Ness monster
This was the first sighting of the comet for 1000 years.
consume /kənˈsuːm/
consume something to use something, especially fuel, energy or time
and so on (and so forth)
used at the end of a list to show that it continues in the same way
We discussed everything—when to go, what to see and so on.
tow /təʊ/
- tow something (+ adv./prep.) to pull a car, boat, etc. behind another vehicle, using a rope or chain
Our car was towed away by the police.
A glider was being towed into the air.
- tow somebody (+ adv./prep.) (of a person) to pull somebody along behind you
Vicky was towing Rosa along by the hand
shrink /ʃrɪŋk/
to become or to make something smaller in size or amount
The tumor had shrunk to the size of a pea.
fabulous /ˈfæbjələs/
extremely good
They put on a fabulous performance.
Jana is a fabulous cook.
passion /ˈpæʃn/
a very strong feeling of love, hate, anger, enthusiasm, etc.
I admire the passion and commitment shown by the players.
with passion She argued her case with considerable passion.
crank /kræŋk/
- a person with ideas that other people find strange
- a person who easily gets angry or annoyed
- a handle or bar on a machine that you can turn to make another part turn
crank up
crank out
slacks /slæks/
trousers that are not part of a suit
a pair of slacks
apprentice /əˈprentɪs/
a young person who works for an employer for a fixed period of time in order to learn the particular skills needed in their job
fasten
/ˈfæsn/
to close or join together the two parts of something; to become closed or joined together; do up
seat belt must be fasten.
rumormonger /ˈruːmər mɑːŋɡər/
a person who spreads rumors
approve /əˈpruːv/
- to think that somebody/something is good, acceptable or suitable
I told my mother I wanted to leave school but she didn’t approve.
approve of somebody/something Do you approve of my idea?
She didn’t quite approve of the way he was running things.
approve of somebody doing something She doesn’t approve of me leaving school this year.
- to say that something is good enough to be used or is correct
be approved by somebody/something The course is approved by the Department for Education.
be approved for something This medicine is not approved for use in children.
be approved as something The chemical has never been federally approved as a pesticide.
approve something The auditors approved the company’s accounts.
blockbuster /ˈblɑːkbʌstər/
something very successful, especially a very successful book or film
prescribe /prɪˈskraɪb/
(of a person or an organization with authority) to say what should be done or how something should be done.
Police regulations prescribe that an officer’s number must be clearly visible.
opponent /əˈpəʊnənt/
- a person that you are playing or fighting against in a game, competition, argument, etc.; SYNONYM adversary
-a political opponent
-The team’s opponents are unbeaten so far this season.
2. a person who is against something and tries to change or stop it
-opponent of something
-opponents of abortion
-opponents of the regime
trial /ˈtraɪəl/
the process of testing the ability, quality or performance of somebody/something, especially before you make a final decision about them
promote /prəˈməʊt/
- ENCOURAGE to help something to develop or increase
-a meeting to promote trade between Taiwan and the UK
-Fertilizer promotes leaf
growth.
- BETTER JOB to give someone a better more responsible job in a company; OPP demote
(is often passive in this meaning.)
-promote somebody to something
-Helen was promoted to senior manager.
- SELL to help sell a new product, film etc by offering it at a reduced price or by advertising it
-She’s in London to promote her new book.
blush /blʌʃ/
- to become red in the face because you are embarrassed or ashamed; SYNONYM go red
She blushed furiously at the memory of the conversation.
- blush to do something to be ashamed or embarrassed about something
I blush to admit it, but I quite like her music.
I blush to think of how I behaved the last time we met.
hype /haɪp/
advertisements and discussion in the media telling the public about a product and about how good or important it is
Don’t believe all the hype—the book isn’t that good.
pull over /pʊl ˈəʊvər/
(of a vehicle or its driver) to move to the side of the road in order to stop or let something pass
pull somebody/something over
(of the police) to make a driver or vehicle move to the side of the road
proof /pruːf/
[uncountable, countable] information, documents, etc. that show that something is true; SYNONYM evidence
The police suspected him of dealing drugs, but they didn’t have any proof.
intoxicated /ɪnˈtɑːksɪkeɪtɪd/
- under the influence of alcohol or drugs
driving while intoxicated
- intoxicated (by/with something) very excited by something, so that you cannot think clearlyintoxicated with success
hangover /ˈhæŋəʊvər/
- the headache and sick feeling that you have the day after drinking too much alcohol
-She woke up with a terrible hangover.
- [usually singular] hangover (from something) a feeling, custom, idea, etc. that remains from the past, although it is no longer practical or suitable
-the insecure feeling that was a hangover from her childhood
-hangover laws from the previous administration
intentional /ɪnˈtenʃənl/
done deliberately; SYNONYM deliberate, intended
I’m sorry I left you off the list—it wasn’t intentional.
an intentional act of cruelty
It is difficult to prove whether their actions were negligent or intentional.
She felt she was a victim of intentional discrimination.
OPPOSITE unintentional
Perhaps I misled you, but it was quite unintentional (= I did not mean to).
permanent /ˈpɜːrmənənt/
lasting for a long time or for all time in the future; existing all the time
She was unable to find a permanent job.
Holiday camps employ only a very small number of permanent staff.
administration /ədˌmɪnɪˈstreɪʃn/
the activities that are done in order to plan, organize and run a business, school or other institution
I work in the Sales Administration department.
hypothetical
/ˌhaɪpəˈθetɪkl/
based on situations or ideas that are possible and imagined rather than real and true
- a hypotheticalexample/situation
- I wasn’t asking about anybody in particular—it was a purely hypothetical question.
pistachio /pɪˈstæʃiəʊ/,
[countable] the small green nut of an Asian tree
weave /wiːv/
(weave wove woven)
- to make cloth, a carpet, a basket, etc. by crossing threads or narrow pieces of material across, over and under each other by hand or on a machine called a loom
weave A from B The baskets are woven from strips of willow.
weave B into A The strips of willow are woven into baskets.
weave something together threads woven together
weave (something) Most spiders weave webs that are almost invisible.
She is skilled at spinning and weaving.
- weave A (out of/from B) | weave B (into A) to make something by twisting flowers, pieces of wood, etc. together
She deftly wove the flowers into a garland
- to move along by running and changing direction continuously to avoid things that are in your way
+ adv./prep. She was weaving in and out of the traffic.
He hurried on, weaving through the crowd.
The road weaves through a range of hills.
weave your way + adv./prep. He had to weave his way through the milling crowds.
- to put facts, events, details, etc. together to make a story or a closely connected whole
weave (something into) something to weave a narrative
weave something together The biography weaves together the various strands of Einstein’s life.
moral /ˈmɔːrəl/
connected with principles of right and wrong behavior.
My moral duty as Secretary-General of the United Nations is to do everything possible to avoid war.
compel /kəmˈpel/
to force somebody to do something; to make something necessary
The court has powers to compel witnesses to attend.
spectacular
/spekˈtækjələr/
very impressive
synonym breathtaking
The coastal road has spectacular scenery.
Messi scored a spectacular goal.
dud /dʌd/
[countable] (informal) a thing that has no use, especially because it does not work correctly
Two of the fireworks in the box were duds.
Are there any more batteries? This one’s a dud.
trustworthy /ˈtrʌstwɜːrði/
Definition of trustworthy that you can rely on to be good, honest, sincere, etc.
synonym reliable
Mitchell was a solid and trustworthy man.
Women were seen as more trustworthy and harder working.
facility /fəˈsɪləti/
buildings, services, equipment, etc. that are provided for a particular purpose
he school is upgrading its outdoor play facilities.
fascinate /ˈfæsɪneɪt/
fascinate (somebody) to attract or interest somebody very much
Technology has always fascinated humans.
It was a question that had fascinated him since he was a boy.
The private lives of movie stars never fail to fascinate.
patron /ˈpeɪtrən/
- a person who gives money and support to artists and writers
Frederick the Great was the patron of many artists.
he was a great patron of the arts and helped to establish the Baltimore Museum.
- a famous person who supports an organization such as a charity and whose name is used in the advertisements, etc. for the organization
the official patron of the college
The Duchess of Cornwall is to be patron of the new Unicorn Theater for Children.
convert /kənˈvɜːrt/
to change or make something change from one form, purpose, system, etc. to another
What rate will I get if I convert my dollars into euros?
a sofa that converts into a bed
He converted from Christianity to Islam.
I didn’t use to like opera but my husband has converted me.
nudge /nʌdʒ/
nudge somebody/something to push somebody gently, especially with your elbow, in order to get their attention
He nudged me and whispered, ‘Look who’s just come in.’
reinforce /ˌriːɪnˈfɔːrs/
reinforce something: to make a feeling, an idea, etc. stronger.
This report strongly reinforces the view that the system must be changed.
glossary /ˈɡlɑːsəri/
(plural glossaries)
a list of technical or special words, especially those in a particular text, explaining their meanings
a glossary of financial terms
accurate /ˈækjərət/
correct and true in every detail
Accurate measurements are essential.
dump /dʌmp/
- (n) a place where waste or rubbish is taken and left
- dump something to get rid of something you do not want
- dump somebody/something (on somebody) (informal) to get rid of somebody/something or leave them for somebody else to deal with
distinct /dɪˈstɪŋkt/
- easily or clearly heard, seen, felt, etc.
There was a distinct smell of gas.
His voice was quiet but every word was distinct.
- clearly different or of a different kind
The results of the survey fell into two distinct groups.
We are talking about rural areas, as distinct from major cities.
et cetera
etc. (= used after a list to show that there are other things that you could have mentioned)
extraterrestrial /ˌekstrətəˈrestriəl/
connected with life existing outside the planet Earth
extraterrestrial beings/life
affirmative /əˈfɜːrmətɪv/
- an affirmative word or reply means ‘yes’ or expresses agreement
an affirmative response to the question
- (also positive)
(of a statement) expressing something that is true, did happen, etc.; not containing words such as ‘no’, ‘not’, ‘never’, etc.
affirmative and negative forms/sentences
meteorologist /ˌmiːtiəˈrɑːlədʒɪst/
a scientist who studies of earths atmosphere and it’s changes, used especially in forecasting the weather
hoax /həʊks/
an act intended to make somebody believe something that is not true, especially something unpleasant
He was accused of using a bomb hoax to empty a rival restaurant.
Detectives are still investigating the hoax calls.
bummer /ˈbʌmər/
a bummer [singular] (informal)
a disappointing or unpleasant situation
It’s a real bummer that she can’t come.
pile /paɪl/
- a number of things that have been placed on top of each other
pile of something a pile of clothes/paper
- a mass of something that is high in the middle and wider at the bottom than at the top ;SYNONYM heap
pile of something piles of dirty washing
- pile of something (informal) a lot of something
He made a pile of cash on the sale of his house.
superstition /ˌsuːpərˈstɪʃn/
[uncountable, countable] (often disapproving)
the belief that particular events happen in a way that cannot be explained by reason or science; the belief that particular events bring good or bad luck
According to superstition, breaking a mirror brings bad luck.
Most cultures have their superstitions.
spoil /spɔɪl/
- spoil something: to change something good into something bad, unpleasant, etc.
- spoil somebody: to give a child everything that they ask for and not enough discipline in a way that has a bad effect on their character and behavior ; overindulgeShe spoils those kids of hers.
resign /rɪˈzaɪn/
voluntarily leave a job or other position.
She was forced to resign due to ill health.
resign as something He resigned as manager after eight years.
resign from something Two members resigned from the board in protest.
resign over something Some judges have threatened to resign over this issue.
resign something My father resigned his directorship last year.
arctic /ˈɑːrktɪk/
the region of the world or related to or happening in around the north pole and
Arctic explorers
- extremely cold
TV pictures showed the arctic conditions.
condo /ˈkɑːndəʊ/
a condominium (= an apartment building or group of houses in which each flat/house is owned by the person living in it but the shared areas are owned by everyone together; a flat/house in such a building or group of houses)
He bought an ocean-front condo in his native Florida.
upset /ʌpˈset/
upset something: to make a plan, situation, etc. go wrong
He arrived an hour late and upset all our arrangements.
smog /smɑːɡ/
a form of air pollution that is or looks like a mixture of smoke and fog, especially in cities
attempts to reduce smog caused by traffic fumes
satisfactory /ˌsætɪsˈfæktəri/
good enough for a particular purpose synonym acceptable
a satisfactory explanation/answer/solution/conclusion The work is satisfactory but not outstanding. opposite unsatisfactory
trousers /ˈtraʊzərz/
a piece of clothing that covers the lower body and is divided into two parts to cover each leg separately
a pair of grey trousers
Doug was wearing black trousers and a blue shirt.
deft /deft/
(of a person’s movements) quick and showing skill
deft hands/fingers/footwork
He finished off the painting with a few deft strokes of the brush.
In one deft movement, he had her hand locked behind her back.
hesitate /ˈhezɪteɪt/
- to be slow to speak or act because you feel uncertain or nervous
-She hesitated before replying.
-He seemed to hesitate a second.
- hesitate to do something to be worried about doing something, especially because you are not sure that it is right or appropriate
-Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any queries.
-If you’d like me to send you the book, then please don’t hesitate to ask.
appetizing/ˈæpɪtaɪzɪŋ/
(British English also appetising)
(of food, etc.) that smells or looks attractive; making you feel hungry or thirsty
the appetizing aroma of sizzling bacon
The meals he cooked were always nourishing but never particularly appetizing.
scenery /ˈsiːnəri/
[uncountable] the natural features of an area, such as mountains, valleys, rivers and forests, when you are thinking about them being attractive to look at
The scenery is magnificent.
to enjoy the scenery
tear sth down
to pull or knock down a building, wall, etc. synonym demolish
They’re tearing down these old houses to build a new office block.
rowdy /ˈraʊdi/
a person who makes a lot of noise or is likely to cause trouble
rowdies and troublemakers
adopt /əˈdɑːpt/
- to take somebody else’s child into your family and become its legal parent(s)
-a campaign to encourage childless couples to adopt
-She was forced to have her baby adopted.
- adopt something to start to use a particular method or to show a particular attitude towards
somebody/something
-All three teams adopted different approaches to the problem.
-Our study examined the strategies adopted by patients for seeking information.
- adopt something to formally accept a suggestion or policy by voting
-The government adopted a resolution on disarmament.
-The council is expected to adopt the new policy at its next meeting.
instructor /ɪnˈstrʌktər/
a person whose job is to teach somebody or practical skill or sport.
a fitness/driving/ski instructor
first-hand
obtained or experienced yourself
to have first-hand experience of poverty
innovation /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/
(innovation in something) a new idea, way of doing something, etc that has been introduced or discovered
an age of technological innovation
The company is very interested in product design and innovation.
cringe /krɪndʒ/
- to feel very embarrassed and uncomfortable about something
I cringe when I think of the poems I wrote then.
- to move back and/or away from somebody because you are afraid; SYNONYM cower
a child cringing in terror
bridegroom
(also groom)
a man on his wedding day, or just before or just after it
I enjoyed the bridegroom’s speech.
humiliate /hjuːˈmɪlieɪt/
humiliate somebody/yourself/something to make somebody feel ashamed or stupid and lose the respect of other people
I didn’t want to humiliate her in front of her colleagues.
I’ve never felt so humiliated.
dent /dent/
1.dent something to make a hollow place in a hard surface, usually by hitting it
The back of the car was badly dented in the collision.
The car was quite badly dented on one side.
- dent something to damage somebody’s confidence, reputation, etc.
It seemed that nothing could dent his confidence.
trip /trɪp/
to catch your foot on something and fall or almost fall
She tripped and fell.
trip over/on something Someone will trip over that cable.
I tripped over my own feet and fell down the stairs.
(figurative) I was tripping over my words in my excitement to tell them the news.
(figurative) Lawyers were tripping over each other (= competing with each other in a hurried way) to get a piece of the action.
trip over/up: Be careful you don’t trip up on the step.
affect /əˈfekt/
affect somebody/something to produce a change in somebody/something
evidence /ˈevɪdəns/
[uncountable] the facts, signs or objects that make you believe that something is true; SYNONYM proof
evidence (of something) Researchers have found clear scientific evidence of a link between exposure to sun and skin cancer.
evidence for something There is a growing body of evidence for the existence of black holes that are ten times as massive as the Sun.
evidence that… There is not a shred of evidence that the meeting actually took place.
evidence to suggest, support, show, etc. Have you any evidence to support this allegation?
significant /sɪɡˈnɪfɪkənt/
large or important enough to have an effect or to be noticed
The drug has had no significant effect on stopping the spread of the disease.
bona fide /ˌbəʊnə ˈfaɪdi/
[usually before noun] (from Latin)
real, legal or true; not false
a bona fide reason
You’re a bona fide member of the team now.
Students should have a bona fide reason for missing class, such as illness.
celestial /səˈlestʃl/
[usually before noun] (formal or literary) of the sky or of heaven
celestial bodies (= the sun, moon, stars, etc.)
celestial light/music
draft /dræft/
(Br. draught)
- a rough written version of something that is not yet in its final form
This is only the first draft of my speech.
- a flow of cool air in a room or other small space
Can you shut the door? There’s a draft in here.
elect /ɪˈlekt/
to do something (formal) to choose to do something
fudge /fʌdʒ/
to present or deal with something in a way that avoids giving clear and accurate information
fudge something Politicians are often very clever at fudging the issue.
I asked how long he was staying, but he fudged the answer.
fudge on something They simply fudged on the details.
saffron /ˈsæfrən/
[uncountable] a bright yellow powder made from crocus flowers, used in cooking as a spice and to give color to food
souvenir /ˈsuːvənɪr/
a thing that you buy and/or keep to remind yourself of a place, an occasion or a holiday; something that you bring back for other people when you have been on holiday; SYNONYM memento
I bought the ring as a souvenir of Greece.
a souvenir shop
a souvenir program of the concert
phenomenon /fəˈnɑːmɪnən/
(plural phenomena /fəˈnɑːmɪnə/)
- a fact or an event in nature or society, especially one that is not fully understood
Globalization is a phenomenon of the 21st century.
Early retirement is a relatively new phenomenon in Britain.
We were hoping science could somehow explain this strange phenomenon.
(plural North American English phenomenons)
a person or thing that is very successful or impressive
This young pianist is a phenomenon.
The movie has become a bona fide cult phenomenon.
purchase /ˈpɜːrtʃəs/
to buy something
We recently purchased a home just outside Las Vegas.
hurricane /ˈhɜːrəkeɪn/
a violent storm with very strong winds, especially in the western Atlantic Ocean
A powerful hurricane hit the Florida coast.
spill /spɪl/
(especially of liquid) to flow over the edge of a container by accident; to make liquid do this
Water had spilled out of the bucket onto the floor.
The bag split, and sugar spilled everywhere.
(figurative) Light spilled from the windows.
(figurative) He opened the curtains, letting the morning light spill into the room.
relief /rɪˈliːf/
the feeling of happiness that you have when something unpleasant stops or does not happen
News of their safety came as a great relief.
assessment /əˈsesmənt/
an opinion or a judgement about somebody or something that has been thought about very carefully; SYNONYM evaluation
a detailed assessment of the risks involved
mortify /ˈmɔːrtɪfaɪ/
[usually passive]
to make somebody feel very ashamed or embarrassed
SYNONYM humiliate
be mortified I was mortified when I realized I had forgotten our lunch date.
thread /θred/
[uncountable, countable] a thin string of cotton, wool, silk, etc. used for sewing or making cloth
a needle and thread
a robe embroidered with gold thread
the delicate threads of a spider’s web
You’ve pulled a thread in your jumper.
sophisticated
/səˈfɪstɪkeɪtɪd/
- having a lot of experience of the world and knowing about fashion, culture and other things that people think are socially important
the sophisticated pleasures of city life
Mark is a smart and sophisticated young man.
- (of a machine, system, etc.) clever and complicated in the way that it works or is presented
highly sophisticated computer systems
Medical techniques are becoming more sophisticated all the time.
census /ˈsensəs/
the process of officially counting something, especially a country’s population, and recording various facts
A national census is taken every ten years.
ice cap
a layer of ice permanently covering parts of the earth, especially around the North and South Poles
associate /əˈsəʊʃieɪt/
- to make a connection between people or things in your mind
I always associate the smell of baking with my childhood.
He is closely associated in the public mind with horror movies.
- associate with somebody to spend time with somebody, especially a person or people that somebody else does not approve of; mix
I don’t like you associating with those people.
3. associate yourself with something (formal) to show that you support or agree with something
I associate myself with the prime minister’s remarks (= I agree with them).
I have never associated myself with political extremism.
pendant /ˈpendənt/
a piece of jewelry that you wear around your neck on a chain
log /lɔːɡ/
- a thick piece of wood that is cut from or has fallen from a tree
logs for the fire
- a written or digital record of events and activities
The captain keeps a log.
drag /dræɡ/
[transitive] to pull somebody/something along with effort and difficulty
drag somebody/something The sack is too heavy to lift—you’ll have to drag it.
drag somebody/something + adv./prep. I dragged the chair over to the window.
They dragged her from her bed.
He quickly dragged a comb through his hair.
drag somebody/something + adj. She managed to drag him clear of the wreckage.
cubic /ˈkjuːbɪk/
used to show that a measurement is the volume of something, that is the height multiplied by the length and the width
How many cubic meters of water are needed to fill the tank?
absorb /əbˈzɔːrb/
to take in a liquid, gas or other substance from the surface or space around
Let the rice cook until it has absorbed all the water.
don’t get mad, get even
something that you say in order to tell someone not to be angry when another person has upset them, but instead to do something that will upset that person very much
luggage /ˈlʌɡɪdʒ/
- [uncountable]
(especially British English) bags, cases, etc. that contain somebody’s clothes and things when they are travelling
SYNONYM baggage
There’s room for one more piece of luggage.
You stay there with the luggage while I find a cab.
- (especially North American English) empty bags, cases, etc. for putting your clothes and things in when you are travelling
a new set of luggage
I need to buy some new luggage for my vacation next month.
The couple had matching luggage.
sizzle/ˈsɪzl/
- [intransitive] to make the sound of food frying in hot oil
sizzling sausages
2.to be very exciting, especially in a sexual way
The screen sizzles whenever she appears on it.
millennium /mɪˈleniəm/
plural millennia
a period of 1 000 years, especially as calculated before or after the birth of Christ.
the second millennium AD
hurl /hɜːrl/
to throw something/somebody violently in a particular direction; synonyms throw
He hurled a brick through the window.
Someone had hurled a grenade into the building.
They hurled spears, screaming hideously.
traffic jam /ˈtræfɪk dʒæm/
a long line of vehicles on a road that cannot move or that can only move very slowly
We were stuck in a traffic jam.
terrestrial /təˈrestriəl/
- (of animals and plants) living on the land or on the ground, rather than in water, in trees or in the air
a terrestrial habitat
- connected with the planet Earth
terrestrial life
COMPARE celestial, extraterrestrial
cashier /kæˈʃɪr/
a person whose job is to receive and pay out money in a bank, shop, hotel, etc.
sought after /ˈsɔːt æftər/
wanted by many people, because it is of very good quality or difficult to get or to find
This design is the most sought after.
a much sought-after actress
vomit /ˈvɑːmɪt/
to bring food from the stomach back out through the mouth; also informal throw up
The smell made her want to vomit.
spew /spjuː/
- to flow out quickly, or to make something flow out quickly, in large amounts
flames spewed from the aircraft’s engine.
massive chimneys were spewing out smoke.
- to vomit (= bring food from the stomach back out through the mouth)
he spewed up on the sidewalk.
apostrophe /əˈpɑːstrəfi/
the mark ( ’ ) used to show that one or more letters or numbers have been left out, as in
etiquette
/ˈetɪkət/, /ˈetɪket/
the formal rules of correct or polite behavior in society, among members of a particular profession or in a particular area of activity
medical/legal/professional etiquette
Students need to be aware of cell phone etiquette.
wash down
wash something down (with something)
- to clean something large or a surface with a lot of water
Wash down the walls before painting them.
- to drink something after, or at the same time as, eating something
For lunch we had bread and cheese, washed down with beer.
funnel /ˈfʌnl/
a device that is wide at the top and narrow at the bottom, used for pouring liquids or powders into a small opening
glacier /ˈɡleɪʃər/
a slow-moving mass or river of ice, formed from snow on mountains or near the North Pole or South Pole
settle /ˈsetl/
- to put an end to an argument or a disagreement
-I want this thing settled.
-The company has agreed to settle out of court (= come to an agreement without going to court).
-Many cases are settled through negotiation.
- to decide or arrange something finally
-It’s all settled—we’re leaving on the nine o’clock plane.
-Good, that’s settled, then.
-He had to settle his affairs (= arrange all his personal business) in Paris before he could return home.
- to make a place your permanent home
-She settled in Vienna after her father’s death.
-She is an American who settled here a couple of years ago.
-This region was settled by the Dutch in the nineteenth century.
-They settled on undeveloped land along the Mississippi.
- to make yourself or somebody else comfortable in a new position
-Ellie settled back in her seat.
-They prepared to settle in for the night (= make themselves comfortable for an evening at home). - to put something carefully in a position so that it does not move
-She settled the blanket around her knees.
6. to become or make somebody/something become calm or relaxed
-I took a pill to help settle my nerves.
-This should settle your stomach.
- settle (on/over something) to fall from above and come to rest on something; to stay for some time on something
-Dust had settled on everything.
-I don’t think the snow will settle (= remain on the ground without melting).
- settle (something) to sink slowly down; to make something do this
-Don’t drink it yet. Let the grounds settle.
- to pay the money that you owe
-Please settle your bill before leaving the hotel.
-They used the last of the money to settle their debts.
urge /ɜːrdʒ/
to advise or try hard to persuade somebody to do something; Synonyms recommend, advise, advocate
She urged him to stay.
I urge people to vote yes on May 5.
blazer /ˈbleɪzər/
a jacket, not worn with matching trousers, often showing the colours or badge of a club, school, team, etc.
He was smartly dressed in a blazer and slacks.
a school blazer
hospitality /ˌhɑːspɪˈtæləti/
[uncountable] friendly and generous behavior towards guests
Thank you for your kind hospitality.
come down with
come down with something: to get an illness that is not very serious
I think I’m coming down with flu.
missionary /ˈmɪʃəneri/
a person who is sent to a foreign country to teach people about religion, especially Christianity
Baptist missionaries
nominate /ˈnɑːmɪneɪt/
- to formally suggest that somebody/something should be chosen for an important role, prize, position, etc.
He was nominated (as) best actor.
- to choose somebody to do a particular job synonym appoint
I have been nominated to the committee.
- to choose a time, date or title for something synonym select
1 December has been nominated as the day of the election.
peeler /ˈpiːlər/
a special type of knife for taking the skin off fruit and vegetables
a potato peeler
bureau /ˈbjʊrəʊ/
an office or organization that provides information on a particular subject
She works for an employment bureau.
walk the line
to behave in an authorized or socially accepted manner, especially as prescribed by law or morality; to exercise self-control.
replicate /ˈreplɪkeɪt/
replicate something (formal) to copy something exactly; replicate.
The format of the seminar day will be replicated in each Sports Council region.
urgent /ˈɜːrdʒənt/
that needs to be dealt with or happen immediately; pressing
a problem that requires urgent attention
‘Can I see you for a moment?’ ‘Is it urgent?’
barge /bɑːrdʒ/
a large boat with a flat bottom, used for carrying goods and people on canals and rivers
They travel by barge.
mortgage /ˈmɔːrɡɪdʒ/
(home loan)
a legal agreement by which a bank or similar organization lends you money to buy a house, etc., and you pay the money back over a particular number of years; the sum of money that you borrow
to apply for/take out/pay off a mortgage
rip /rɪp/
- to tear something or to become torn, often suddenly or violently
-rip (something) I ripped my jeans on the fence.
-The flags had been ripped in two.
- rip something + adv./prep. to remove something quickly or violently, often by pulling it
-He ripped off his tie.
-The carpet had been ripped from the stairs.
bulky /ˈbʌlki/
- (of a thing) large and difficult to move or carry
Bulky items will be collected separately.
The key felt bulky in his pocket.
2.(of a person) tall and heavy
The bulky figure of Inspector Jones appeared at the door.
cringeworthy
/ˈkrɪndʒwɜːrði/
(also cringe-making)
(both British English, informal)
making you feel embarrassed or uncomfortable
It was a cringeworthy performance from start to finish.
myth /mɪθ/
[countable, uncountable]
1. a traditional story, especially one concerning the early history of a people or explaining some natural or social phenomenon, and typically involving supernatural beings or events; SYNONYM legend
ancient Greek myths
a creation myth (= that explains how the world began)
- something that many people believe but that does not exist or is false; SYNONYM fallacy
Contrary to popular myth, women are not worse drivers than men.
dropout /ˈdrɑːpaʊt/
to leave school, college, etc. without finishing your studies
breathtaking adjective
/ˈbreθteɪkɪŋ/
very exciting or impressive (usually in a pleasant way)
a breathtaking view of the mountains
The scene was one of breathtaking beauty.
urban myth/legend
a story about a strange event that is supposed to have happened (but did not really happen) that is often repeated and that many people believe is true
revise /rɪˈvaɪz/
- revise something to change your opinions or plans, for example because of something you have learned
-I can see I will have to revise my opinions of his abilities now.
-The government may need to revise its policy in the light of this report.
- revise something to change something, such as a book or an estimate, in order to correct or improve it
-a revised edition of a textbook
-I’ll prepare a revised estimate for you.
- to prepare for an exam by looking again at work that you have done
-I can’t come out tonight. I have to revise.
-revise for something I spent the weekend revising for my exam.
-revise something I’m revising Geography today.
possession /pəˈzeʃn/
[countable, usually plural] something that you own or have with you at a particular time synonym belongings
Prisoners were allowed no personal possessions.
One of Jane’s most prized possessions was her photo album.
relieve /rɪˈliːv/
to remove or reduce an unpleasant feeling or pain
Being able to tell the truth at last seemed to relieve her.
stutter /ˈstʌtər/
- to have difficulty speaking because you cannot stop yourself from repeating the first sound of some words several times; SYNONYM stammer
‘W-w-what?’ he stuttered.
- (of a vehicle or an engine) to move or start with difficulty, making short sharp noises or movements
The car stuttered along in first gear.
jug /dʒʌɡ/
a container with a handle and a lip, for holding and pouring liquids; pitcher
a milk/water jug
a pitcher of water
period /ˈpɪriəd/
the mark ( . ) used at the end of a sentence and in some abbreviations, for example e.g.
binge /bɪndʒ/
a short period of time when somebody does too much of a particular activity, especially eating or drinking alcohol
to go on a binge binge drinking
considerate /kənˈsɪdərət/
inconsiderate /ˌɪnkənˈsɪdərət/
always thinking of other people’s wishes and feelings; careful not to hurt or upset others; SYNONYM thoughtful
She is always polite and considerate towards her employees.
OPPOSITE inconsiderate:
not giving enough thought to other people’s feelings or needs; SYNONYM thoughtless
It was inconsiderate of you not to call.
announcement /əˈnaʊnsmənt/
a spoken or written statement that informs people about something
The campaign will run public service announcements on radio stations around the country.
convenient /kənˈviːniənt/
- useful, easy or quick to do; not causing problems
he said meeting in Adelaide would be convenient for him as well.
It is very convenient to pay by credit card.
- near to a particular place; easy to get to
The office is just five minutes from the station, so it’s very convenient.
erupt /ɪˈrʌpt/
- erupt or are erupted, the burning rocks, etc. are thrown out from the volcano
The volcano could erupt at any time.
- to suddenly express your feelings very strongly, especially by shouting loudly
When Davis scored for the third time the crowd erupted.
entertain /ˌentərˈteɪn/
to interest somebody or make somebody laugh in order to please them
The aim of the series is both to entertain and inform.
dramatic /drəˈmætɪk/
(of a change, an event, etc.) sudden, very great and often surprising
a dramatic increase/change/improvement/shift
There has been a dramatic rise in reported crime.
- exciting and impressive
a dramatic victory
They watched dramatic pictures of the police raid on TV.
entitle /ɪnˈtaɪtl/
- [often passive] to give somebody the right to have or to do something
be entitled to something You will be entitled to your pension when you reach 65.
Everyone’s entitled to their own opinion.
- to give a title to a book, play, etc.
He read a poem entitled ‘Salt’.
The company launched a huge marketing campaign entitled ‘Buy Blue’.
sanction /ˈsæŋkʃn/
- [countable, usually plural] sanction (against somebody) an official order that limits trade, contact, etc. with a particular country, in order to make it do something, such as obeying international lawTrade sanctions were imposed against any country that refused to sign the agreement.
The economic sanctions have been lifted.2. [uncountable] (formal) official permission or approval for an action or a change synonym authorization
These changes will require the sanction of the court.
Their ideas received official sanction at the meeting.
decline /dɪˈklaɪn/
- to become smaller, fewer, weaker, etc.
Support for the party continues to decline.
- to refuse politely to accept or to do something; refuse
I offered to give them a lift but they declined.
pimp /pɪmp/
- (noun)a man who controls people working as prostitutes and lives on the money that they earn
Iman is a pimp.
- (verb) to add things to something to make it look or sound better, especially by making it more individual
Pimp your car with stylish custom wheels!
interaction /ˌɪntərˈækʃn/
- the act of communicating with somebody, especially while you work, play or spend time with them
the interaction between performers and their audience
- if one thing has an interaction with another, or if there is an interaction between two things, the two things have an effect on each other
the interaction of bacteria with the body’s natural chemistry
e.g. /ˌiː ˈdʒiː/
for example (from Latin ‘exempli gratia’)
popular pets, e.g. cats and dogs
sincere /sɪnˈsɪr/
saying only or showing what you really think or feel
stuffed animal
a toy in the shape of an animal, made of cloth and filled with a soft substance
track /træk/
to find somebody/something by following the marks, signs, information, etc., that they have left behind them
dumb /dʌm/
- stupid
That was a pretty dumb thing to do.
If the police question you, act dumb
(= pretend you do not know anything).
(offensive) In her early movies she played a dumb blonde.
- unable to speak
She was born deaf and dumb.
authorize /ˈɔːθəraɪz/
to give official permission for something, or for somebody to do something.
The police were authorized to record his phone conversations.
deceive /dɪˈsiːv/
to persuade someone that something false is the truth, or to keep the truth hidden from someone for your own advantage; Synonym:trick
-are my eyes deceiving me?
-The company deceived customers by selling old computers as new ones.
-The sound of the door closing deceived me into thinking they had gone out.
obnoxious /əbˈnɑːkʃəs/
extremely unpleasant, especially in a way that offends people; SYNONYM offensive
obnoxious behavior
The movie is loud and obnoxious.
effort /ˈefərt/
an attempt to do something especially when it is difficult to do
The project was a team effort.
effort to do something Please make an effort to be on time.
clumsy /ˈklʌmzi/
- (of people and animals) moving or doing things in a way that is not smooth or steady or careful
I spilled your coffee. Sorry that was clumsy of me.
His clumsy fingers couldn’t untie the knot.
- (of actions and statements) done without skill or in a way that offends people
She made a clumsy attempt to apologize. - (of objects) difficult to move or use easily; not well designed
- (of processes) too complicated to understand or use easily
The complaints procedure is clumsy and time-consuming.
syllable /ˈsɪləbl/
any of the units into which a word is divided, containing a vowel sound and usually one or more consonants
a word with two syllables
examine
- to consider or study an idea, a subject, etc. very carefully
examine something This study sets out to examine in detail the possible effects of climate change.
Her new show critically examines the relationship between the arts and popular culture.
This important issue must be carefully examined.
- to look at somebody/something closely, to see if there is anything wrong or to find the cause of a problem
examine somebody/something The doctor examined her carefully but could find nothing wrong.
to be examined by a doctor/psychiatrist/specialist/vet
examine yourself She examined herself closely in the mirror.
creepy /ˈkriːpi/
causing an unpleasant feeling of fear or slight horror synonym scary
a creepy ghost story
It’s kind of creepy down in the cellar!
It feels a bit creepy in here.
sleeve /sliːv/
a part of a piece of clothing that covers all or part of your arm
a dress with short/long sleeves
Dan rolled up his sleeves and washed his hands.
survey /ˈsɜːrveɪ/
an investigation of the opinions, behavior, etc. of a particular group of people, which is usually done by asking them questions
advocate /ˈædvəkət/
a person who supports or speaks in favor of somebody or of a public plan or action
breakthrough /ˈbreɪkθruː/
an important development that may lead to an agreement or achievement
-to make/achieve a breakthrough
-a significant breakthrough in negotiations
-a major breakthrough in cancer research
optical /ˈɑːptɪkl/
[usually before noun]
1. connected with the sense of sight or the relationship between light and sight
optical effects
2. used to help you see something more clearly
optical aids
optical instruments such as microscopes and telescopes
- (computing) using light for reading or storing information
optical storage
an optical disk/drive/mouse
sympathetic /ˌsɪmpəˈθetɪk/
- kind to somebody who is hurt or sad; showing that you understand and care about their problems
She was very sympathetic when I was sick.
sympathetic to/towards somebody I did not feel at all sympathetic towards Kate.
I’m here if you need a sympathetic ear (= somebody to talk to about your problems).
2.showing that you approve of somebody/something or that you share their views and are willing to support them
He was speaking to a highly sympathetic audience.
sympathetic to/towards somebody/something to be sympathetic to the party’s aims
Russian newspapers are largely sympathetic to the president.
- (of a person) easy to like
a sympathetic character in a novel
I don’t find her a very sympathetic person.
The character’s faults actually make him more sympathetic.
prostitute /ˈprɑːstɪtuːt/
a person who has sex for money
She was arrested and charged with being a common prostitute.
adapt /əˈdæpt/
to change your behavior in order to deal more successfully with a new situation; SYNONYM adjust, modify
-It’s amazing how soon you adapt.
-These styles can be adapted to suit individual tastes.
-We need technology that can be adapted to suit the needs of the future.
conduct /kənˈdʌkt/
conduct something (formal): to organize and/or do a particular activity.
Police conducted a thorough search of the building.
no-brainer /ˌnəʊ ˈbreɪnər/
a decision or a problem that you do not need to think about much because it is obvious what you should do
The question of who to support in this election should be a no-brainer.
I said yes straight away. It was a no-brainer for me.
instruct /ɪnˈstrʌkt/
- to tell somebody to do something, especially in a formal or official way; SYNONYM direct, order
-The letter instructed him to report to headquarters immediately.
-You will be instructed where to go as soon as the plane is ready.
- instruct somebody (in something) (formal) to teach somebody something, especially a practical skill
-All our staff have been instructed in sign language.
- (formal) to give somebody information about something
-We have been instructed that a decision will not be made before the end of the week.
- (law) to employ somebody to represent you in a legal situation, especially as a lawyer
mystery /ˈmɪstəri/
(plural mysteries) [countable] something that is difficult to understand or to explain
It is one of the great unsolved
mysteries of this century.
Their motives remain a mystery.
It is a mystery to somebody why, how, etc… It’s a complete mystery to me why they chose him.
aroma /əˈrəʊmə/
a pleasant smell that is easy to notice
the aroma of fresh coffee
A delicious aroma was coming from the kitchen.
bond /bɑːnd/
[countable] something that forms a connection between people or groups, such as a feeling of friendship or shared ideas and experiences
bond between A and B A bond of friendship had been forged between them.
bond with somebody The students formed strong bonds with each other.
gaffe /ɡæf/
a mistake that a person makes in public or in a social situation, especially something embarrassing; SYNONYM faux pas
a social gaffe
He made some real gaffes early in his career.
Most people will politely look the other way if you commit some social gaffe.
scam /skæm/
a clever and dishonest plan for making money
an insurance scam
vivid /ˈvɪvɪd/
- (of memories, a description, etc.) producing very clear pictures in your mind; synonym graphic
vivid memories
He gave a vivid account of his life as a fighter pilot.
- (of light, colors, etc.) very bright
vivid blue eyes
The colors are vivid, which helps bring the game to life.
His eyes were a vivid green.
riverbank /ˈrɪvərbæŋk/
the ground at the side of a river
on the riverbank
represent /ˌreprɪˈzent/
represent somebody/something to be a member of a group of people and act or speak for them at an event, a meeting, etc.
The President was represented at the ceremony by the Vice-President.
pass away
(also pass on)
to die. People say ‘pass away’ to avoid saying ‘die’.
wrap /ræp/
to cover something completely in paper or other material, for example when you are giving it as a present
chase /tʃeɪs/
- FOLLOW to quickly follow someone or something in order to catch them
-The dogs saw him running and chased him.
-kids chasing around the house
- MAKE SOMEBODY/SOMETHING LEAVE to make someone or something leave, especially by following them for a short distance and threatening them
-chase somebody away/off
-The men were chased off by troops, who fired warning shots.
- TRY TO GET SOMETHING to use a lot of time and effort trying to get something such as work or money
-Top graduates from the university are chased by major companies.
-reporters chasing after a story
maroon /məˈruːn/
- to leave somebody in a place that they cannot escape from, for example an island; SYNONYM strand
‘Lord of the Flies’ is a novel about English schoolboys marooned on a desert island.
- dark red-brown in colour
rug /rʌɡ/
a piece of thick material like a small carpet that is used for covering or decorating part of a floor
lunar month
the average time between one new moon and the next (about 29½ days)
story /ˈstɔːri/
(US English)
(British English storey)
a level of a building; a floor
enroll /ɪnˈrəʊl/
to arrange for yourself or somebody else to officially join a course, school, etc
to enroll in a course
mortar and pestle
/ˈmɔːrtər & ˈpesl/
a small heavy tool with a round end used for pressing things to a powder in a special bowl called a mortar
a small hard bowl in which you can crush substances such as seeds and grains to make them into powder with a special object (called a pestle)
undertake /ˌʌndərˈteɪk/
undertake something: to make yourself responsible for something and start doing it
to undertake a task/project University professors both teach and undertake research.
instant /ˈɪnstənt/
- happening immediately synonym immediate
The show was an instant success.
- (of food) that can be made quickly and easily, usually by adding hot water
instant coffee
cope /kəʊp/
to deal successfully with something difficult; SYNONYM manage
-I got to the stage where I wasn’t coping any more.
-cope with something He wasn’t able to cope with the stresses and strains of the job.
-Desert plants are adapted to cope with extreme heat.
garland/ˈɡɑːrlənd/
a circle of flowers and leaves that is worn on the head or around the neck or is hung in a room as decoration
The office was decked with garlands for the party.
utensil /juːˈtensl/
a tool that is used in the house.
a new set of cooking utensils.
strap /stræp/
a narrow piece of leather, cloth or other material that is used to fasten something, keep something in place, carry something or hold onto something
landlord
- a person or company from whom you rent a room, a house, an office, etc.
a buy-to-let landlord (= who buys houses and flats in order to rent them out)
- (British English) a man who owns or manages a pub or a guest house
punctuation /ˌpʌŋktʃuˈeɪʃn/
the marks used in writing that divide sentences and phrases; the system of using these marks
fraud /frɔːd/
the crime of cheating somebody in order to get money or goods illegally
It was said that the property had been obtained by fraud.
terrify /ˈterɪfaɪ/
to make somebody feel extremely frightened
Flying terrifies her.
Stop it! You’re terrifying the children!
interactive /ˌɪntərˈæktɪv/
that involves people working together and having an influence on each other
The school believes in interactive teaching methods.
auction /ˈɔːkʃn/
a public sale in which things are sold to the person who offers the most money for them
arithmetic /əˈrɪθmətɪk/
the type of mathematics that deals with the adding, multiplying, etc. of
numbers
He’s not very good at arithmetic.
I think there’s something wrong with your arithmetic.
I’ve worked out the price, but I need to check the arithmetic.
a test of mental arithmetic
reveal /rɪˈviːl/
1.to make something known to somebody
The identity of the buyer has not been revealed.
- to show something that previously could not be seen synonym display
The door opened to reveal a cozy little room.
awkward /ˈɔːkwərd/
making you feel embarrassed; inconvenient
There was an awkward silence.
I felt awkward because they obviously wanted to be alon.
under the weather
(informal) if you are or feel under the weather, you feel slightly ill and not as well as usual
ticket /ˈtɪkɪt/
an official notice that orders you to pay a fine because you have done something illegal while driving or parking your car
volcano /vɑːlˈkeɪnəʊ/
a mountain with a large opening at the top through which gases and lava (= hot liquid rock) are forced out into the air, or have been in the past
a dormant volcano (= one that is not active at present)
an extinct volcano (= one that is no longer active)
a volcano spewing red hot lava.
an active volcano may erupt at any time.
dashing /ˈdæʃɪŋ/
(usually of a man) attractive and full of confidence
a dashing young officer
his dashing good looks
- (of a thing) attractive and fashionable
a dashing red waistcoat
thorn /θɔːrn/
small sharp, pointed part on the stem of some plants, such as roses
courtyard /ˈkɔːrtjɑːrd/
an open space that is partly or completely surrounded by buildings and is usually part of a castle, a large house, etc.
The hotel is built around a central courtyard.
heavy news
news that deals with serious topics or events
theory /ˈθiːəri/, /ˈθɪri/
(plural theories) [countable, uncountable] a formal set of ideas that is intended to explain why something happens or exists
theory of something the theory of evolution/relativity
scientific/economic theory
indeed /ɪnˈdiːd/
- used after very and an adjective or adverb to emphasize a statement, description, etc.
Thank you very much indeed!
The last three months have been very good indeed for the company.
- used to emphasize a positive statement or answer
‘Was he very angry?’ ‘Indeed he was.’
‘Do you agree?’ ‘Indeed I do/Yes, indeed.’
‘You said you’d help?’ ‘I did indeed—yes.’
3. (formal, especially British English) used to add information to a statement
I don’t mind at all. Indeed, I would be delighted to help.
tear /ter/
(tear,tore,torn)
to damage something by pulling it apart or into pieces or by cutting it on something sharp; to become damaged in this way synonym rip
His clothes were badly torn.
Careful—the fabric tears very easily.
lame /leɪm/
1. (of people or animals) unable to walk well because of an injury to the leg or foot
My horse had gone lame.
- (of an excuse, explanation, etc.) weak and difficult to believe ;SYNONYM feeble, unconvincing
Stephen made some lame excuse.
collaboration /kəˌlæbəˈreɪʃn/
the act of working with another person or group of people to create or producing something
It was a collaboration that produced extremely useful results.
The new plane was a triumph of European industrial and technical collaboration.
curator /ˈkjʊreɪtər/
a person whose job is to be in charge of the objects or works of art in a museum or an art gallery, etc.
dull /dʌl/
not interesting or exciting synonym dreary; synonym boring
Life in a small town could be deadly dull.
The countryside was flat, dull and uninteresting.
The first half of the game was pretty dull.
There’s never a dull moment when John’s around.
intensive /ɪnˈtensɪv/
involving a lot of work or activity done in a short time.
an intensive language course
wardrobe /ˈwɔːrdrəʊb/
a large cupboard for hanging clothes in, which is either a piece of furniture or (in British English) built into the wall
a fitted wardrobe
seek /siːk/
(seek/sought/sought)
attempt to find (something).
-Drivers are advised to seek alternative routes.
-Police are not seeking anyone else in connection with the deaths.
compulsion /kəmˈpʌlʃn/
- strong pressure that makes somebody do something that they do not want to do
compulsion (to do something) You are under no compulsion to pay immediately.
compulsion (on somebody) to do something There are no compulsions on students to attend classes.
- compulsion (to do something) a strong desire to do something, especially something that is wrong, silly or dangerous ;SYNONYM urge
He felt a great compulsion to tell her everything.
Obsessions and compulsions often develop in people who live stressful lives.
He felt a great compulsion to drive too fast.
trick photography
photography that uses special methods to make things that are not real seem to be real
proverb /ˈprɑːvɜːrb/
a well-known phrase or sentence that gives advice or says something that is generally true, for example ‘Waste not, want not.’
As the old proverb has it: ‘A stitch in time saves nine’.
fringe /frɪndʒ/
[countable, usually singular] (British English)
(North American English bangs [plural])
the front part of somebody’s hair that is cut so that it hangs over their forehead
She stared at us from beneath her fringe.
widower /ˈwɪdəʊər/
a man whose wife has died and who has not married again
offend /əˈfend/
- offend (somebody) to make somebody feel upset because of something you say or do that is rude or embarrassing
They’ll be offended if you don’t go to their wedding.
- offend somebody/something to seem unpleasant to somebody
The smell from the farm offended some people.
- (formal) to commit a crime or crimes
He started offending at the age of 16.
- offend (against somebody/something) (formal) to be against what people believe is morally right
comments that offend against people’s religious beliefs
doctor /ˈdɑːktər/
doctor something to change something in order to trick somebody
glamorous /ˈɡlæmərəs/
especially attractive and exciting, and different from ordinary things or people
glamorous movie stars
a glamorous job
opposite unglamorous
desret /ˈdezərt/
a large area of land that has very little water and very few plants growing on it. Many deserts are covered by sand.
merchandise
/ˈmɜːrtʃəndaɪs/
/ˈmɜːrtʃəndaɪz/
- goods that are bought or sold; goods that are for sale in a shop
a wide selection of merchandise
These tokens can be exchanged for merchandise in any of our stores.
- things you can buy that are connected with or that advertise a particular event or organization
official Olympic merchandise
merchandise
/ˈmɜːrtʃəndaɪs/
/ˈmɜːrtʃəndaɪz/
- goods that are bought or sold; goods that are for sale in a shop
a wide selection of merchandise
These tokens can be exchanged for merchandise in any of our stores.
- things you can buy that are connected with or that advertise a particular event or organization
official Olympic merchandise
dormitory /ˈdɔːrmətɔːri/
- (also informal dorm) a room for several people to sleep in, especially in a school or other institution
- (also dorm, residence hall) (all North American English)
(British English hall of residence, hall)
a building for university or college students to live in
dormitory /ˈdɔːrmətɔːri/
- (also informal dorm) a room for several people to sleep in, especially in a school or other institution
- (also dorm, residence hall) (all North American English)
(British English hall of residence, hall)
a building for university or college students to live in
divert /daɪˈvɜːrt/
- [often passive] to make somebody/something change direction
-The course of the stream has now been diverted.
-Northbound traffic will have to be diverted onto minor roads.
- [often passive] to use money, materials, etc. for a different purpose from their original purpose
-More of the budget was diverted into promotions.
- to take somebody’s thoughts or attention away from something; SYNONYM distract
-The war diverted people’s attention away from the economic situation.
-She managed to divert the baby onto a different activity.
- [often passive] (formal) to entertain people
Children are easily diverted.
cologne /kəˈləʊn/
(also eau de cologne)
[uncountable]
a type of light perfume
admit /ədˈmɪt/
- to agree, often unwillingly, that something is true ;SYNONYM confess
-It was a stupid thing to do, I admit.
-Don’t be afraid to admit to your mistakes.
- to say that you have done something wrong or illegal; SYNONYM confess
-He refused to admit to the other charges.
-She admitted to having stolen the car.
- to allow somebody/something to enter a place
-Each ticket admits one adult.
-You will not be admitted to the theater after the performance has started.
- to allow somebody to become a member of a club, a school or an organization
-The society admits all US citizens over 21.
-Women were only admitted into the club last year.
- to take somebody to a hospital or other institution where they can receive special care
-Two crash victims were admitted to the local hospital.
- to accept that evidence is legally valid and can be presented in court
-Judge Nilson refused to admit the evidence because it had been illegally obtained.
abbreviation /əˌbriːviˈeɪʃn/
- [countable] abbreviation (of/for something) a short form of a word, etc.
What’s the abbreviation for ‘Saint’?
2. the process of abbreviating something
figure out
- to think about somebody/something until you understand them/it
-We couldn’t figure her out.
-I’m trying to figure out a way to make this work.
-I can’t figure out how to do this.
2. to calculate an amount or the cost of something
Have you figured out how much the trip will cost?
factually /ˈfæktʃuəli/
in a way that is based on or connected with facts
a factually based historical drama
factually correct
stock market
/ˈstɑːk mɑːrkɪt/
(also market)
the business of buying and selling shares in companies and the place where this happens; a stock exchange
-to make money on the stock market
-a stock market crash (= when prices of shares fall suddenly and people lose money)
joint /dʒɔɪnt/
Verb
1. joint something to cut meat into large pieces, usually each containing a bone
Noun
2. a place where two bones are joined together in the body in a way that enables them to bend and move
-My joints are really stiff this morning.
- a place where two or more parts of an object are joined together, especially to form a corner
-a joint between two lengths of copper
- (British English) a piece of roast meat
-a joint of beef
the Sunday joint (= one traditionally eaten on a Sunday)
- (informal) a place where people meet to eat, drink, dance, etc., especially one that is cheap
-a fast-food joint
The joint was jumping (= full of people and activity).
- (informal) a cigarette containing marijuana (= an illegal drug)
Adjective
7. involving two or more people together
a joint account (= a bank account in the name of more than one person, for example shared by a couple)
The report was a joint effort (= we worked on it together).
They finished in joint first place.
They were joint owners of the house (= they owned it together).
grocery /ˈɡrəʊsəri/
- (especially British English)
(North American English usually grocery store)
[countable] a shop that sells food and other things used in the home. In American English ‘grocery store’ is often used to mean ‘supermarket’.
-the corner grocery store
- groceries [plural] food and other goods sold by a grocer or at a supermarket
-He walked in and set the bag of groceries down on the floor.
-Mom wanted me to get the groceries.
- connected with food and other goods sold by a grocer or at a supermarket
the grocery bill
extortion /ɪkˈstɔːrʃn/
[uncountable, countable]
the crime of making somebody give you something by threatening them
-He was arrested and charged with extortion.
bungalow /ˈbʌŋɡələʊ/
- (British English) a house built all on one level, without stairs
-He retired at 70 and moved to a bungalow in Rosecroft Gardens.
- (in South-East Asia) a large house, sometimes on more than one level, that is not joined to another house on either side
ceiling /ˈsiːlɪŋ/
- the top inside surface of a room
-a large room with a high ceiling
-The walls and ceiling were painted white.
-The ceiling of her room was low.
- the highest limit or amount of something
-The government has decided to lift price ceilings on bread and milk.
-The reality is the economy is hitting the ceiling and the growth rate must slow.
- (specialist) the greatest height at which a particular aircraft is able to fly
-an aircraft with a ceiling of 20 000 feet
cellar /ˈselər/
- an underground room often used for storing things
-We looked all over the house, even down in the coal cellar.
-We keep onions and apples in the cellar.
- (also wine cellar) an underground room where wine is stored; the wine stored in this room
mansion /ˈmænʃn/
- [countable] a large, impressive house
-an 18th century country mansion
2. Mansions [plural] (British English) used in the names of blocks of flats
-2 Moscow Mansions, Cromwell Road
facility /fəˈsɪləti/
- facilities [plural] buildings, services, equipment, etc. that are provided for a particular purpose
-leisure/sports facilities
medical/recreational/educational facilities
-shopping/banking/cooking facilities
- [countable] a place, usually including buildings, used for a particular purpose or activity
-the world’s largest nuclear waste facility
-a new healthcare facility
- [countable] a special feature of a machine, service, etc. that makes it possible to do something extra
-a bank account with an overdraft facility
-This facility allows the user to input text in various forms onto the screen and thus create a true newspaper page.
- [singular, uncountable] facility (for something) a natural ability to learn or do something easily
-She has a facility for languages.
-He plays the piano with surprising facility.
decent /ˈdiːsənt/
following moral standards that are acceptable to society
troublesome /ˈtrʌbəlsəm/
causing problems, in an annoying way
-a troublesome child
thrill /θrɪl/
a sudden strong feeling of excitement and pleasure, or the thing that makes you feel this
-Winning first place must have been quite a thrill.
reef /riːf/
a line of sharp rocks, often made of coral, or a raised area of sand near the surface of the sea
-a proposal to protect several miles of thousand-year-old coral reef
