MODULE 1

Word Part of speech Pronunciation Definition Example sentence

urgent adj /ˈɜːdʒənt/ very important and needing to be dealt The report called for urgent action to
with immediately reduce lead in petrol.
underestimate v /ˌʌndərˈestəmeɪt/ to think or guess that something is We underestimated how long it would
smaller, cheaper, easier etc than it really is take to get there.
conducive adj /kənˈdjuːsɪv/ if a situation is conducive to something The teachers have created an
such as work, rest etc, it provides environment conducive to learning.
conditions that make it easy for you to
work etc
potential n /pəˈtenʃəl/ if people or things have potential, they She has the potential to become a
have a natural ability or quality that could champion.
develop to make them very good
distract v /dɪˈstrækt/ to take someone’s attention away from The students were distracted by a
something by making them look at or commotion in the corridor outside.
listen to something else
impact n /ˈɪmpækt/ the effect or influence that an event, Higher mortgage rates have already
situation etc has on someone or had a major impact on spending.
something
ensure v /ɪnˈʃʊə/ to make certain (that something will The hospital tries to ensure that
happen properly) people are seen quickly.
alternate v /ˈɔːltəneɪt/ if two things alternate, or if you alternate She alternated between outrage and
them, they happen one after the other in sympathy.
a repeated pattern
consolidate v /kənˈsɒlədeɪt/ to combine things in order to make them We consolidate information from a
more effective or easier to deal with wide range of sources.
reinforce v /ˌriːənˈfɔːs/ to give support to an opinion, idea, or The film reinforces the idea that
feeling, and make it stronger women should be pretty and dumb.
capacity n /kəˈpæsəti/ someone’s ability to do something Dogs have an infinite capacity for
love.
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focus v /ˈfəʊkəs/ to give special attention (to one particular She tried to focus her mind on her
person or thing), or to make (people) do work.
this
reaction n /riˈækʃən/ something that you feel or do because of What was Jeff’s reaction when you
something that has happened or been told him about the job?
said
retain v /rɪˈteɪn/ to remember (information) I find it very difficult to retain facts.
conduct v /kənˈdʌkt/ to carry out (a particular activity or Is it really necessary to conduct
process), especially in order to get experiments on animals?
information or prove facts
demonstrate v /ˈdemənstreɪt/ to show that you have (a particular ability, He has demonstrated an ability to
quality, or feeling) meet deadlines.
ambitious adj /æmˈbɪʃəs/ an ambitious plan, idea etc shows a desire The bridge is one of the country's
to do something good but difficult most ambitious engineering projects.
obedient adj /əˈbiːdiənt/ always doing what you are told to do, or When I ask you to do something, I
what the law, a rule etc says you must do expect you all to be obedient.
eager adj /ˈiːɡə/ very keen and excited about something He’s a bright kid and eager to learn.
that is going to happen or about
something you want to do
inspire v /ɪnˈspaɪə/ to give someone the idea for something, The story was inspired by a chance
especially a story, painting, poem etc meeting with an old Russian duke.
dedicated adj /ˈdedəkeɪtəd/ someone who is dedicated works very She is a dedicated teacher who wants
hard at what they do because they care a the very best for her students.
lot about it
climb v /klaɪm/ to move up, down, or across something They climbed up into the loft of the
using your feet and hands, especially old barn.
when this is difficult to do
decline v /dɪˈklaɪn/ to decrease in quantity or importance After the war, the city declined in
importance.
grow v /ɡrəʊ/ to increase in amount, size, number, or Sales of new cars grew by 10% last
strength year.
stable adj /ˈsteɪbəl/ steady and not likely to move or change A wide base will make the structure
much more stable.
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resolve v /rɪˈzɒlv/ to find a satisfactory way of dealing with The crisis was resolved by
(a problem or difficulty) negotiations.
alternative n /ɔːlˈtɜːnətɪv/ something you can choose to do or use Is there a viable alternative to the
instead of something else present system?
contemporary n /kənˈtempərəri, - someone who lived or was in a particular Oswald was much admired by his
pəri/ place at the same time as someone else contemporaries at the Academy.
depict v /dɪˈpɪkt/ to describe something or someone in His book depicted life in pre-
writing or speech, or to show them in a revolutionary Russia.
painting, picture etc
pace n /peɪs/ the speed at which something happens or The pace of change in our lives is
is done becoming faster and faster.
intricate adj /ˈɪntrɪkət/ containing many small parts or details that The farmers use an intricate system of
all work or fit together drainage canals.
recognition n /ˌrekəɡˈnɪʃən/ the act of knowing someone or something He stared at her, but there was no
because you have known or learned about sign of recognition.
them in the past
fundamental adj /ˌfʌndəˈmentl/ relating to the most basic and important A fundamental change is needed in
parts of something the voting system.
resemble v /rɪˈzembəl/ to look like or be similar to (someone or The ancient tools discovered in
something) Ethiopia strongly resemble those
found in Tanzania.
eventually adv /ɪˈventʃuəli, - after a long time, or after a lot of things He eventually escaped and made his
tʃəli/ have happened way back to England.
disperse v /dɪˈspɜːs/ if something disperses or is dispersed, it The clouds dispersed as quickly as
spreads in different directions over a wide they had gathered.
area
adjacent adj /əˈdʒeɪsənt/ a room, building, piece of land etc that is We stayed in adjacent rooms.
adjacent to something is next to it
property n /ˈprɒpəti/ a quality or power that a substance, plant This herb has healing properties.
etc has
disorder n /dɪsˈɔːdə/ a mental or physical illness which prevents He suffers from a rare disorder of the
part of your body from working properly liver.
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MODULE 2
Word Part of speech Pronunciation Definition Example sentence

endure v /ɪnˈdjʊə/ to be in (a difficult or painful situation) for The victims of this war have endured
a long time without complaining tremendous pain and suffering.
starvation n /stɑːˈveɪʃən/ suffering or death caused by lack of food People dying of starvation because of
the war in the country.
consequence n /ˈkɒnsəkwəns/ something that happens as a result of a Many believe that poverty is a direct
particular action or set of conditions consequence of overpopulation.
simultaneously adv /ˌsɪməlˈteɪniəsli/ things that happen simultaneously happen The opera will be broadcast
at exactly the same time simultaneously on television and
radio.
resource n /rɪˈzɔːs, -ˈsɔs/ something such as useful land, or minerals Botswana expressed growing concern
such as oil or coal, that exists in a country over its dwindling food resources.
and can be used to increase its wealth
community n /kəˈmjuːnəti/ the people who live in the same area, town 75% of the population live in small
etc communities of fewer than 450
people.
shift v /ʃɪft/ to change (a situation, discussion etc) by The White House hopes to shift the
giving special attention to one idea or media’s attention away from foreign
subject instead of to a previous one policy issues.
infectious adj /ɪnˈfekʃəs/ an infectious illness can be passed from Flu is highly infectious.
one person to another, especially through
the air you breathe
straightforward adj /ˌstreɪtˈfɔːwəd/ simple and easy to understand Installing the program is relatively
straightforward.
proportionally adv /prəˈpɔːʃənəli/ something that is related proportionally to The punishment should be
something else is in the correct or most proportionally related to the
suitable relationship to it in size, amount, seriousness of the crime.
importance etc

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imply v /ɪmˈplaɪ/ if a fact, event etc implies something, it The high level of radiation in the rocks
shows that it is likely to be true implies that they are volcanic in
origin.
attribute v /əˈtrɪbjuːt/ to believe or say that a situation or event is The fall in the number of deaths from
caused by something heart disease is generally attributed
to improvements in diet.
livelihood n /ˈlaɪvlihʊd/ the way you earn money in order to live Fishing is the main livelihood for many
people in the area.
crop n /krɒp/ a plant such as wheat, rice, or fruit that is The main crops were oats and barley.
grown by farmers and used as food
nutrition n /njuːˈtrɪʃən/ the process of giving or getting the right Many homeless people suffer from
type of food for good health and growth poor nutrition.
emerge v /ɪˈmɜːdʒ/ to begin to be known or noticed They belonged to a religious sect that
emerged in the 1830s.
settle v /ˈsetl/ to go to a place where no people have lived Many Jewish people settled in the
permanently before and start to live there Lower East Side.
die out phr v /ˌdaɪ ˈaʊt/ to disappear or stop existing completely The wild population of koalas is in
danger of dying out.
addition n /əˈdɪʃən/ something that is added to something else, This excellent book will be a welcome
often in order to improve it addition to the library of any student.
destroy v /dɪˈstrɔɪ/ to damage (something) so badly that it no Some of these companies are
longer exists or cannot be used or repaired polluting and destroying the
environment.
extract v /ɪkˈstrækt/ to carefully remove (a substance) from Oils are extracted from the plants.
something which contains it, using a
machine, chemical process etc
archaeological adj /ˌɑːkiəˈlɒdʒɪkəl/ related to the study of ancient societies by She worked on an archaeological site
examining what remains of their buildings, in the centre of York.
graves, tools etc
breeding n /ˈbriːdɪŋ/ the activity of keeping animals or plants in Benson took great care in selecting
order to produce animals or plants that breeding stock (=animals you keep to
have particular qualities breed from).

5
invasive adj /ɪnˈveɪsɪv/ an invasive plant spreads quickly in a Invasive species have colonised the
garden or other area, so that it becomes a area, making it difficult for native
problem species to flourish.
stunning adj /ˈstʌnɪŋ/ extremely attractive or beautiful You look absolutely stunning in that
dress.
remote adj /rɪˈməʊt/ far from towns or other places where A fire in a remote mountain area
people live could turn into a disaster.
bustling adj /ˈbʌsəlɪŋ/ a bustling place is very busy The flower market was bustling with
shoppers.
unspoilt adj /ˌʌnˈspɔɪlt/ an unspoiled place is beautiful because it The unspoilt countryside of Wales is
has not changed for a long time and does one of my favourite areas for a
not have a lot of new buildings holiday.
tranquil adj /ˈtræŋkwəl/ pleasantly calm, quiet, and peaceful We stayed in a small, tranquil village
in Tuscany.
species n sing or pl /ˈspiːʃiːz/ a group of animals or plants whose This species of bird is found only in
members are similar and can breed the Southern Hemisphere.
together to produce young animals or
plants
habitat n /ˈhæbətæt/ the natural home of a plant or animal The grassland is an important habitat
for many wild flowers.
diversity n /daɪˈvɜːsəti/ the fact of including many different types Creating a pond in your garden
of people or things encourages wildlife diversity.
niche n /niːʃ/ if you find your niche, you find a job or Everyone has their own niche within
activity that is very suitable for you the sales team.
drift v /drɪft/ to move slowly on water or in the air The rubber raft drifted out to sea.
extinct adj /ɪkˈstɪŋkt/ an extinct type of animal or plant does not Dinosaurs have been extinct for
exist any more millions of years.
charismatic adj /ˌkærəzˈmætɪk/ having a natural ability to attract and Martin Luther King was a very
interest other people and make them charismatic speaker.
admire you
soil n /sɔɪl/ the top layer of the earth in which plants The soil here is very poor (=not good
grow for growing crops).

6
nutrient n /ˈnjuːtriənt/ a chemical or food that provides what is The plant absorbs nutrients from the
needed for plants or animals to live and soil.
grow
predator n /ˈpredətə/ an animal that kills and eats other animals The tiger is one of the largest
predators in the country.
eradicate v /ɪˈrædəkeɪt/ to completely get rid of (something such as The disease has been eradicated from
a disease or a social problem) most of Europe.

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MODULE 3
Word Part of speech Pronunciation Definition Example sentence

instinct n /ˈɪnstɪŋkt/ a natural tendency to behave in a particular Animals have a natural instinct for
way or a natural ability to know something, survival.
which is not learned
bond n /bɒnd/ something that unites two or more people There is nothing so strong as the
or groups, such as love, or a shared interest emotional bond between mother and
or idea child.
urban adj /ˈɜːbən/ relating to towns and cities Unemployment is higher in urban
areas.
artificial adj /ˌɑːtəˈfɪʃəl/ not real or not made of natural things Energy is being wasted by using
artificial lighting when daylight is
adequate.
healing n /ˈhiːlɪŋ/ the treatment of illness using natural The medical establishment is taking
powers or prayer rather than medicine healing increasingly seriously.
indulge v /ɪnˈdʌldʒ/ to take part (in an activity, especially an Women do not indulge in crime to the
illegal one) same extent as men.
widespread adj /ˈwaɪdspred/ existing or happening in many places or The report claimed that the problem
situations, or among many people of police brutality was widespread.
intuitive adj /ɪnˈtjuːətɪv/ an intuitive idea is based on a feeling rather He seemed to have an intuitive
than on knowledge or facts awareness of how I felt.
incidence n /ˈɪnsədəns/ the number of times something happens, Smokers had the highest incidence of
especially crime, disease etc colds.
exposure n /ɪkˈspəʊʒə/ the chance to experience new ideas, ways The visit to Germany gave them
of life etc exposure to the language.
initiative n /ɪˈŋɪʃətɪv/ an important new plan or process to A government initiative to help
achieve a particular aim or to solve a exporters has begun this month.
particular problem
empower v /ɪmˈpaʊə/ to give (a person or organisation) the legal The President is empowered to
right to do something appoint judges to the Supreme Court.

8
prevalence n /ˈprevələns/ the condition of being common at a Flu has greater prevalence during the
particular time, in a particular place, or winter months.
among a particular group of people
pioneering adj /ˌpaɪəˈnɪərɪŋ/ introducing new and better methods or She played a pioneering role in
ideas for the first time opening higher education to women.
irrelevant adj /ɪˈreləvənt/ not useful or not relating to a particular Students viewed Latin as boring and
situation, and therefore not important irrelevant.
outcome n /ˈaʊtkʌm/ the final result of a meeting, discussion, It was impossible to predict the
war etc – used especially when no one outcome of the election.
knows what it will be until it actually
happens
priority n /praɪˈɒrəti/ the thing that you think is most important The children are our first priority.
and that needs attention before anything
else
threat n /θret/ someone or something that is regarded as The fighting is a major threat to
a possible danger stability in the region.
tackle v /ˈtækəl/ to try to deal with (a difficult problem) There is more than one way to tackle
the problem.
conflicting adj /kənˈflɪktɪŋ/ conflicting ideas, beliefs, or opinions are Customers are being given conflicting
different from each other and cannot both advice by manufacturers.
be true
consumption n /kənˈsʌmpʃən/ the act of eating or drinking The consumption of alcohol on the
premises is forbidden.
criticise v /ˈkrɪtəsaɪz/ to express your disapproval of (someone or Doctors have criticised the
something), or to talk about their faults government for failing to invest
enough in the health service.
underlying adj /ˌʌndəˈlaɪ-ɪŋ/ (of a cause, idea etc) most important, Stress is the underlying cause of many
although not easily noticed illnesses.
gratitude n /ˈɡrætətjuːd/ the feeling of being grateful (=wanting to The committee expressed its
thank someone because of something kind gratitude for the contribution he had
that they have done) made.
prescribe v /prɪˈskraɪb/ to say what medicine or treatment a sick If these don’t work I may have to
person should have prescribe you something stronger.

9
enhance v /ɪnˈhɑːns/ to improve (something) Good lighting will enhance any room.
rely on v phr /rɪˈlaɪ ɒn/ to trust or depend on (someone or Many people now rely on the Internet
something) to do what you need or expect for news.
them to do
apparently adv /əˈpærəntli/ used to say that you have heard that Apparently the company is losing a lot
something is true, although you are not of money.
completely sure about it
undoubtedly adv /ʌnˈdaʊtədli/ definitely true or known to be the case Undoubtedly, public interest in folk
music has declined.
undeniably adv /ˌʌndɪˈnaɪəbli/ definitely true or certain The situation is undeniably worse
than it was.
sanitation n /ˌsænəˈteɪʃən/ the protection of public health by removing Overcrowding and poor sanitation are
and treating waste, dirty water etc common problems in prisons.
vaccination n /ˌvæksəˈneɪʃən/ (the act of) giving someone a vaccine (=a These days you can get a flu
substance which contains a weak form of vaccination at the supermarket.
the bacteria or virus that causes a disease
and is used to protect people from that
disease)
guilt n /ɡɪlt/ a strong feeling of shame and sadness I had a lot of guilt about eating the
because you know that you have done whole cake myself.
something wrong
warning n /ˈwɔːnɪŋ/ something, especially a statement, that The cigarette packet carried warnings
tells you that something bad, dangerous, or about the dangers of smoking.
annoying might happen so that you can be
ready or avoid it
disrupt v /dɪsˈrʌpt/ to prevent (something) from continuing in Traffic was disrupted by a hoax bomb.
its usual way by causing problems
associate v /əˈsəʊʃieɪt, to make a connection in your mind What are the most common problems
əˈsəʊsi-/ (between one thing or person and another) associated with cancer treatment?
scale n /skeɪl/ a system of numbers that is used for Your performance will be judged on a
measuring the amount, speed, quality etc scale of 1 to 10.
of something

10
anxiety n /æŋˈzaɪəti/ the feeling of being very worried about There is growing public anxiety over
something levels of air pollution in our cities.
ignore v /ɪɡˈnɔː/ to deliberately pay no attention to There are some problems which we
something that you have been told or that can’t afford to ignore.
you know about
proven adj /ˈpruːvən, tested and shown to be true or good, or The manager wants to buy a player of
ˈprəʊvən/ shown to exist proven ability.

11
MODULE 4
Word Part of speech Pronunciation Definition Example sentence

unprecedented adj /ʌnˈpresədentəd/ never having happened before, or never Crime has increased on an
having happened so much unprecedented scale.
exploit v /ɪkˈsplɔɪt/ to develop and use (minerals, forests, oil There is an urgent need to exploit the
etc) for business or industry resources of the Irish Sea.
dispose v /dɪˈspəʊz/ to get rid of something, especially This incinerator was built to dispose of
something that is difficult to get rid of toxic waste,
discard v /dɪsˈkɑːd/ to get rid of something Discard any old cleaning materials.
landfill n /ˈlændfɪl/ a place where waste is buried under the There are some massive landfills on the
ground outskirts of the city.
ownership n /ˈəʊnəʃɪp/ the fact of owning something The price of home ownership is
increasing.
adverse adj /ˈædvɜːs/ not good or favourable They fear it could have an adverse
effect on global financial markets.
diminish v /dəˈmɪnɪʃ/ to become or make (something) become The party’s share of the vote has
smaller or less diminished steadily.
sustainable adj /səˈsteɪnəbəl/ able to continue for a long time The party is promising low inflation and
sustainable economic growth.
goods n pl /ɡʊdz/ things that are produced in order to be There will be tax increases on a range
sold of goods and services.
wealth n /welθ/ a large amount of money, property etc The country’s wealth comes from its
that a person or country owns oil.
concept n /ˈkɒnsept/ an idea of how something is, or how This goes against our basic concepts of
something should be done decent human behaviour.
trigger v /ˈtrɪɡə/ if one event triggers another, it suddenly The incident triggered a wave of
makes the second event happen violence.
outweigh v /aʊtˈweɪ/ to be more important or valuable than The benefits of the scheme outweigh
(something else) the disadvantages.
assume v /əˈsjuːm/ to think that something is true, although I didn’t see your car, so I assumed
you do not have definite proof you’d gone out.
12
contradict v /ˌkɒntrəˈdɪkt/ to disagree with (something or someone), Deborah opened her mouth to
especially by saying that the opposite is contradict him, but closed it again.
true
scarcity n /ˈskeəsəti/ a situation in which there is not enough of He's out of work because of the scarcity
something of employment opportunities.
wasteful adj /ˈweɪstfəl/ using more of something than you should, It was wasteful of Lily to leave the light
especially money, time, or effort on.
compulsory adj /kəmˈpʌlsəri/ something that is compulsory must be Maths and English are compulsory for
done because it is the law or because all students.
someone in authority orders you to
ecological n phr /ˌiːkəlɒdʒɪkəl the effect that human activities have on Businesses all over the world must
footprint ˈfʊtprɪnt/ the environment, caused by using up its attempt to reduce their ecological
natural resources, pollution, waste etc footprint.
biodegradable adj /ˌbaɪəʊdɪˈɡreɪdəbəl/ materials, chemicals etc that are This carton is made of biodegradable
biodegradable are changed naturally by plastic.
bacteria into substances that do not harm
the environment
facilities n pl /fəˈsɪlətiz/ rooms, equipment, or services that are The company plans to set up in-house
provided for a particular purpose training facilities.
domestic n phr /dəˌmestɪk a piece of equipment, especially electrical We carry out repairs on a range of
appliance əˈplaɪəns/ equipment, such as a cooker or washing domestic appliances.
machine, used in people’s homes
awareness n /əˈweənəs/ knowledge or understanding of a Health officials have tried to raise
particular subject or situation awareness (=improve people’s
knowledge) about AIDS.
illusion n /ɪˈluːʒən/ an idea or opinion that is wrong, Alcohol gives people the illusion of
especially about yourself being witty and confident.
correspond v /ˌkɒrəˈspɒnd/ if two things or ideas correspond, the The two halves of the document did
parts or information in one relate to the not correspond.
parts or information in the other
materialistic adj /məˌtɪəriəˈlɪstɪk/ concerned only with money and That politician appeals only to the
possessions rather than things of the mind materialistic values of American
such as art, religion, or moral beliefs – society.
used in order to show disapproval

13
status symbol n phr /ˈsteɪtəs ˌsɪmbəl/ something that you have or own that you A Rolls Royce is seen as a status
think shows high social rank or position symbol.
utility n /juːˈtɪləti/ the quality of being useful, or the degree We often choose something because of
to which something is useful how it looks rather than its basic utility.
inclination n /ˌɪŋkləˈneɪʃən/ a tendency to think or behave in a They have an inclination to see
particular way everything in political terms.
belongings n pl /bɪˈlɒŋɪŋz/ the things you own, especially things that You need to take out an insurance
you can carry with you policy that covers your personal
belongings.
tendency n /ˈtendənsi/ if someone or something has a tendency The drug is effective but has a tendency
to do or become a particular thing, they to cause headaches.
are likely to do or become it
traumatic adj /trɔːˈmætɪk/ a traumatic experience is so shocking and His son’s death was the most traumatic
upsetting that it affects you for a long event in Stan’s life.
time
diminish v /dəˈmɪnɪʃ/ to become or make (something) become The party’s share of the vote has
smaller or less diminished steadily.
envy n /ˈenvi/ the feeling of wanting something that I felt a twinge of envy when I saw them
someone else has together.
affluent adj /ˈæfluənt/ having plenty of money, nice houses, Today’s affluent society contrasts
expensive things etc sharply with the years immediately
after the war.
boost n /buːst/ something that gives someone more Add a little more vanilla, to give the
confidence, or that helps something flavour a boost.
increase, improve, or become successful
fulfilment n /fʊlˈfɪlmənt/ the feeling of being happy and satisfied Are you looking for greater fulfilment
with your life because you are doing and satisfaction in your work?
interesting, useful, or important things
vague adj /veɪɡ/ unclear because someone does not give The governor gave only a vague outline
enough detailed information or does not of his tax plan.
say exactly what they mean
precious adj /ˈpreʃəs/ something that is precious is valuable and We cannot afford to waste precious
important and should not be wasted or time.
used without care
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MODULE 5
Word Part of Pronunciation Definition Example sentence
speech
automation n /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃən/ the use of computers and machines Cash machines provide automation
instead of people to do a job for two basic functions of a bank –
deposits and withdrawals.
vision n /ˈvɪʒən/ an idea of what you think something He had a clear vision of how he hoped
should be like the company would develop.
inform v /ɪnˈfɔːm/ to officially tell (someone or something) Please inform us of any change of
about something or give them information address as soon as possible.
install v /ɪnˈstɔːl/ to put (a piece of equipment) somewhere Security cameras have been installed
and connect it so that it is ready to be in the city centre.
used
frustrated adj /frʌˈstreɪtəd/ feeling annoyed, upset, and impatient, He gets frustrated when people don’t
because you cannot control or change a understand what he’s trying to say.
situation, or achieve something
maintenance n /ˈmeɪntənəns/ the repairs, painting etc that are necessary The caretaker is responsible for the
to keep something in good condition maintenance of the school buildings.
accessible adj /əkˈsesəbəl/ easy to obtain or use Computers should be made readily
accessible to teachers and pupils.
dependable adj /dɪˈpendəbəl/ able to be trusted to do what you need or This job will at least give you a
expect dependable source of income.
venture n /ˈventʃə/ a new business activity that involves She wants to sell the business and
taking risks take on a completely new venture.
differentiate v /ˌdɪfəˈrenʃieɪt/ to be the quality, feature etc that makes What differentiates these two periods
one thing or person clearly different from of history?
another
subsequent adj /ˈsʌbsəkwənt/ happening or coming after something else These skills were passed on to
subsequent generations.

15
controversial adj /ˌkɒntrəˈvɜːʃəl/ causing a lot of disagreement, because I tried to avoid controversial topics
many people have strong opinions about such as politics and religion.
the subject being discussed
approximately adv /əˈprɒksəmətli/ close to an exact number, amount etc, but The plane will be landing in
perhaps a little bit more or less than it approximately 20 minutes.
thoroughly adv /ˈθʌrəli/ completely She sat feeling thoroughly miserable.
utterly adv /ˈʌtəli/ completely – used especially to emphasise It was utterly impossible to work in
that something is very bad, or that a the house.
feeling is very strong
outdated adj /ˌaʊtˈdeɪtəd/ if something is outdated, it is no longer In today’s world, technology rapidly
considered useful or effective, because becomes outdated.
something more modern exists
versatile adj /ˈvɜːsətaɪl/ having many different uses The potato is an extremely versatile
vegetable.
conjecture n /kənˈdʒektʃə/ an idea or opinion formed by guessing My results show that this conjecture
was, in fact, correct.
respondent n /rɪˈspɒndənt/ someone who answers questions, Only 62 percent of respondents said
especially in a survey they were satisfied.
embrace v /ɪmˈbreɪs/ to eagerly accept (a new idea, opinion, Most West European countries have
religion etc) embraced the concept of high-speed
rail networks with enthusiasm.
deny v /dɪˈnaɪ/ to say that (something) is not true, or that I’ve never denied that there is a
you do not believe (something) housing problem.
insist v /ɪnˈsɪst/ to say firmly and often that something is Mike insisted that he was right.
true, especially when other people think it
may not be true
abundant adj /əˈbʌndənt/ something that is abundant exists or is The factory needs an abundant supply
available in large quantities so that there of fresh water.
is more than enough
dense adj /dens/ made of or containing a lot of things or A narrow track wound steeply up
people that are very close together through dense forest.
thrive v /θraɪv/ to become very successful or very strong Many of these plants are thriving in
and healthy tropical rainforests.

16
atmosphere n /ˈætməsfɪə/ the mixture of gases that surrounds a It's not possible to survive without
planet oxygen outside the Earth's
atmosphere.
survival n /səˈvaɪvəl/ the state of continuing to live or exist The continued survival of this species
of dolphin seems unlikely.
race n /reɪs/ a group of people who are similar in some The 1960s produced a new race of
way young novelists.
luxurious adj /lʌɡˈzjʊəriəs, very expensive, beautiful, and comfortable They rented a luxurious 30-room
ləɡˈʒʊəriəs/ villa by the sea.
obstacle n /ˈɒbstəkəl/ something that makes it difficult to There are formidable obstacles on the
achieve something road to peace.
viable adj /ˈvaɪəbəl/ a viable idea, plan, or method can work The committee came forward with
successfully one viable solution.
deadly adj /ˈdedli/ likely to cause death Terrorists plotted to release a deadly
gas.
column n /ˈkɒləm/ a tall solid upright stone post used to We could see the factory chimneys
support a building, or a hollow structure rising like columns through the
of the same shape, often made from smoke.
metal
affirm v /əˈfɜːm/ to state publicly (that something is true) A spokesman for the company
affirmed that a merger was likely.
reasonable adj /ˈriːzənəbəl/ reasonable prices are not too high He sells good food at a reasonable
price.
withstand v /wɪðˈstænd/ to be strong enough to remain unharmed This fabric can withstand steam and
by (something such as great heat, cold, high temperatures.
pressure etc)
immense adj /ɪˈmens/ extremely large or great People who travel by rail still read an
immense amount.
lifespan n /ˈlaɪfspæn/ the average length of time that someone A TV set has an average lifespan of 11
will live or that something will continue to years.
work
fuel n /ˈfjuːəl/ a substance such as coal, gas, or oil that Coal is one of the cheapest fuels.
can be burned to produce heat or energy

17
MODULE 6
Word Part of speech Pronunciation Definition Example sentence

notorious adj /nəʊˈtɔːriəs, nə-/ famous or well known for something bad A notorious computer hacker was
arrested by the police.
discredit v /dɪsˈkredət/ to make people stop believing in (a His theories have now been
particular idea) discredited.
discipline n /ˈdɪsəplən/ an area of knowledge or teaching, Those who practised the new
especially one such as history, chemistry, discipline of psychology were at first
mathematics etc that is studied at a called ‘alienists’.
university
evidence n /ˈevədəns/ facts or signs that show clearly that At present we have no evidence of
something exists or is true life on other planets.
brutal adj /ˈbruːtl/ very cruel and violent He was accused of making a brutal
attack on a defenceless old man.
poverty n /ˈpɒvəti/ the situation or experience of being poor We need an effective strategy to
fight poverty.
unemployment n /ˌʌnɪmˈplɔɪmənt/ when someone does not have a job Closure of the plant means 80
workers are facing unemployment.
prisoner n /ˈprɪzənə/ someone who is kept in a prison as a legal Prisoners here only serve short
punishment for a crime or while they are sentences.
waiting for their trial
aggressive adj /əˈɡresɪv/ behaving in an angry threatening way, as if
Teachers apparently expect a certain
you want to fight or attack someone amount of aggressive behaviour
from boys.
biological adj /ˌbaɪəˈlɒdʒɪkəl/ relating to the natural processes Depression is both biological and
performed by living things psychological.
circumstances n pl /ˈsɜːkəmstænsɪz, - the conditions that affect a situation, Prisoners can only leave their cells
stənsɪz/ action, event etc under certain circumstances.
upbringing n /ˈʌpˌbrɪŋɪŋ/ the way that your parents care for you and However good their upbringing,
teach you to behave when you are growing young people may still behave badly.
up

18
genetic adj /dʒəˈnetɪk/ relating to genes (=a part of a cell in a Each person in this study has a
living thing that controls what it looks like, genetic make-up that is unique.
how it grows, and how it develops) or
genetics (=the study of how the qualities of
living things are passed on)
impulse n /ˈɪmpʌls/ a sudden strong desire to do something Marge’s first impulse was to run.
without thinking about whether it is a
sensible thing to do
reflect v /rɪˈflekt/ to think carefully about something, or to He had time to reflect on his
say something that you have been thinking successes and failures.
about
implication n /ˌɪmpləˈkeɪʃən/ a possible future effect or result of an What are the implications of these
action, event, decision etc proposals?
contribute v /kənˈtrɪbjuːt/ to give (money, help, ideas etc) to The volunteers contribute their own
something that a lot of other people are time to the project.
also involved in
derive v /dɪˈraɪv/ to get (something, especially an advantage Medically, we will derive great
or a pleasant feeling) from something benefit from this technique.
identify v /aɪˈdentəfaɪ/ to recognise (something) or discover Scientists have identified the gene
exactly what it is, what its nature or origin that causes abnormal growth.
is etc
feasible adj /ˈfiːzəbəl/ a plan, idea, or method that is feasible is It was no longer financially feasible
possible and is likely to work to keep the community centre open.
judge n /dʒʌdʒ/ the official in control of a court, who The trial judge specifies the number
decides how criminals should be punished of years to be spent in prison.
offence n /əˈfens/ an illegal action or a crime His solicitor said he committed the
offence because he was heavily in
debt.
reoffend v /ˌriːəˈfend/ to commit a further crime or crimes after a Many of the young men here are
previous crime likely to reoffend.
surveillance n /səˈveɪləns/ when the police, army etc watch a person They were watched day and night
or place carefully because they may be using electronic surveillance
connected with criminal activities equipment.

19
prevention n /prɪˈvenʃən/ when something bad is stopped from Effective crime prevention must be
happening our main goal.
inclusion n /ɪnˈkluːʒən/ the act of including someone or something The government is putting greater
in a larger group or set, or the fact of being emphasis on the inclusion of less
included in one fortunate or poorer people in our
society.
convincing adj /kənˈvɪnsɪŋ/ making you believe that something is true There was convincing evidence of his
or right guilt.
flawed adj /flɔːd/ spoiled by having mistakes, weaknesses, or The research behind this report is
by being damaged seriously flawed.
improbable adj /ɪmˈprɒbəbəl/ not likely to happen or to be true It seems highly improbable that he
had no knowledge of the affair.
perceptive adj /pəˈseptɪv/ someone who is perceptive notices things You’re right. That’s very perceptive
quickly and understands situations, of you.
people’s feelings etc well – used to show
approval
prediction n /prɪˈdɪkʃən/ the skill of being able to say that They are now planning further tests
something will happen, before it happens, to confirm their predictions.
or the act of doing this
law n phr /ˈlɔː ɪnˌfɔːsmənt/ the job of making sure that the law is Law enforcement agencies from
enforcement obeyed across the country are looking for
the suspect.
procedure n /prəˈsiːdʒə/ a way of doing something, especially the What’s the procedure for applying
correct or usual way for a visa?
convict v /kənˈvɪkt/ to prove or officially announce that She was convicted of shoplifting.
(someone) is guilty of a crime after a
trial in a law court
investigation n /ɪnˌvestɪˈɡeɪʃən/ an official attempt to find out the truth The authorities are planning to
about or the cause of something such as a launch a full-scale investigation into
crime, accident, or scientific problem the crash.
examination n /ɪɡˌzæməˈneɪʃən/ the process of looking at something The issues need further
carefully in order to see what it is like examination.

20
documentation n /ˌdɒkjəmənˈteɪʃən, the act of recording information in writing, We need a careful documentation of
-men-/ on film etc the costs before we can commit to
the project.
physical adj /ˈfɪzɪkəl/ related to someone’s body rather than She was in constant physical pain.
their mind or emotions
reliability n /rɪˌlaɪəˈbɪləti/ being able to be trusted or depended on I have doubts about his reliability as
an employee.
witness n /ˈwɪtnəs/ someone who appears in a court of law to The defence is expected to call them
say what they know about a crime or other as witnesses.
event
judgement n /ˈdʒʌdʒmənt/ the ability to make sensible decisions I’ve known him for years and I trust
about what to do and when to do it his judgement.

21
MODULE 7
Word Part of speech Pronunciation Definition Example sentence

ban v /bæn/ to say that something must not be done, Parliament decided to ban fox-
seen, used etc hunting.
obligatory adj /əˈblɪɡətəri/ something that is obligatory must be done It is obligatory for companies to
because of a law, rule etc provide details of their industrial
processes.
restriction n /rɪˈstrɪkʃən/ a rule or law that limits or controls what The law imposed new financial
people can do restrictions on private companies.
commute v /kəˈmjuːt/ to regularly travel a long distance to get to Jim commutes to Manhattan every
work day.
congestion n /kənˈdʒestʃən/ the state of being full of traffic London’s roads are terrible for trafic
congestion.
pedestrian n /pəˈdestriən/ someone who is walking, especially along Pedestrians should press the button
a street or other place used by cars at the traffic lights before crossing
the road.
expansion n /ɪkˈspænʃən/ when something increases in size, range, There are plans for a massive
amount etc expansion of the oil and gas
industries.
demonstrate v /ˈdemənstreɪt/ to show or prove something clearly The study demonstrates the link
between poverty and malnutrition.
implementation n /ˌɪmpləmenˈteɪʃən/ the act of taking action or making changes The implementation of the peace
that someone has officially decided plan may take several months.
should happen
integration n /ˌɪntəˈɡreɪʃən/ the process of getting people of different They are trying to achieve
races or parts of society to live and work integration of the refugees into the
together instead of separately wider community.
overcrowded adj /ˌəʊvəˈkraʊdəd/ filled with too many people or things Staff had to work in overcrowded
conditions.

22
convert v /kənˈvɜːt/ to change something into a different They converted the spare bedroom
form, or to change something so that it into an office.
can be used for a different purpose or in a
different way
measure n /ˈmeʒə/ an action, especially an official one, that is New safety measures were being
intended to deal with a particular problem demanded after last night’s horrific
train crash.
lobby v /ˈlɒbi/ to try to persuade the government or The group is lobbying for a reduction
someone with political power that a law in defence spending.
or situation should be changed
infrastructure n /ˈɪnfrəˌstrʌktʃə/ the basic systems and structures that a They’ve made a $65 billion
country or organisation needs in order to investment package in education,
work properly, for example roads, healthcare and infrastructure.
railways, banks etc
distribution n /ˌdɪstrəˈbjuːʃən/ the act of sharing things among a large The distribution of aid supplies has
group of people in a planned way been difficult because of the
fighting.
initiative n /ɪˈnɪʃətɪv/ an important new plan or process to A government initiative to help
achieve a particular aim or to solve a exporters has been announced.
particular problem
maintenance n /ˈmeɪntənəns/ the repairs, painting etc that are The caretaker is responsible for the
necessary to keep something in good maintenance of the school buildings.
condition
compensation n /ˌkɒmpənˈseɪʃən/ money paid to someone because they She received compensation from the
have suffered injury or loss, or because government for the damage caused
something they own has been damaged to her property.
refund n /ˈriːfʌnd/ an amount of money that is given back to You should go down there and
you if you are not satisfied with the goods demand a refund.
or services that you have paid for
prominent adj /ˈprɒmənənt/ important The World Cup will have a
prominent place on the agenda.
fuel n /ˈfjuːəl/ a substance such as coal, gas, or oil that Coal is one of the cheapest fuels.
can be burned to produce heat or energy

23
getaway n /ˈɡetəweɪ/ a short holiday away from home, or a Big Bear Lake is a popular weekend
place where people go for a short holiday getaway.
idyll n /ˈɪdəl/ a place or experience in which everything People who buy second homes in
is peaceful and everyone is perfectly the country buy into the rural idyll.
happy
stopover n /ˈstɒpˌəʊvə/ a short stay somewhere between parts of We had a two-day stopover in Hong
a journey, especially on a long plane Kong to break the long journey.
journey
prototype n /ˈprəʊtətaɪp/ the first form that a new design of a car, We’re testing a working
machine etc has, or a model of it used to prototype of the new car next week.
test the design before it is produced
autonomous adj /ɔːˈtɒnəməs/ having the ability to work and make Autonomous machines will become
decisions by without any help from a large part of our future lives.
humans
delay n /dɪˈleɪ/ when someone or something has to wait, Long delays are expected on the
or the length of the waiting time motorways.
crucial adj /ˈkruːʃəl/ something that is crucial is extremely This aid money is crucial to the
important, because everything else government’s economic policies.
depends on it
constructive adj /kənˈstrʌktɪv/ useful and helpful, or likely to produce We welcome any constructive
good results criticism.
disruptive adj /dɪsˈrʌptɪv/ causing problems and preventing Night work can be very disruptive to
something from continuing in its usual home life.
way
manufacturer n /ˌmænjəˈfæktʃərə/ a company that makes large quantities of Clothing manufacturers have been
goods feeling the effects of the recession.
gradual adj /ˈɡrædʒuəl/ happening slowly over a long period of There has been a gradual change in
time climate.
upheaval n /ʌpˈhiːvəl/ a very big change that often causes Moving house is a major upheaval.
problems
eradicate v /ɪˈrædəkeɪt/ to completely get rid of something such as We can eradicate this disease from
a disease or a social problem the world.

24
flow v /fləʊ/ if traffic flows, it moves easily from one The new one-way system should
place to another help the traffic to flow better.
self-sufficiency n /ˌself səˈfɪʃənsi/ the ability to provide all the things you Australia has achieved 65% self-
need without help from other people sufficiency in oil.
illusory adj /ɪˈluːsəri/ false but seeming to be real or true First impressions can often prove
illusory.
destination n /ˌdestəˈneɪʃən/ the place that someone or something is Allow plenty of time to get to your
going to destination.

25
MODULE 8
Word Part of speech Pronunciation Definition Example sentence

cohesive adj /kəʊˈhiːsɪv/ uniting people or things Historically, sport has been a cohesive
force in international relations.
empathy n /ˈempəθi/ the ability to understand other people’s She had great empathy with people.
feelings and problems
influential adj /ˌɪnfluˈenʃəl/ having a lot of influence and therefore He’s one of the most influential
changing the way people think and figures in international politics.
behave
sceptic n /ˈskeptɪk/ a person who disagrees with particular Sceptics argued that the rise in prices
claims and statements, especially those was temporary.
that are generally thought to be true
self- adj /ˌself ˈsækrəfaɪsɪŋ/ when you decide not to do or have She invested several years of hard
sacrificing something you want or need, in order to work and self-sacrifice in her family.
help someone else
altruism n /ˈæltru-ɪzəm/ when you care about or help other Many choose to work in developing
people, even though this brings no countries out of altruism.
advantage to yourself
cynical adj /ˈsɪnɪkəl/ unwilling to believe that people have The public is cynical about election
good, honest, or sincere reasons for promises.
doing something
human n phr /ˌhjuːmən ˈneɪtʃə/ the qualities or ways of behaving that Their kindness and understanding
nature are natural and common to most people restored my faith in human nature.
indifference n /ɪnˈdɪfərəns/ lack of interest or concern His apparent indifference to material
luxuries surprised me.
moral adj /ˈmɒrəl/ relating to the principles of what is right It is easy to have an opinion on a
and wrong behaviour, and with the moral issue like the death penalty for
difference between good and evil murder.

26
instinct n /ˈɪnstɪŋkt/ a natural tendency to behave in a Animals have a natural instinct for
particular way or a natural ability to survival.
know something, which is not learned
goodwill n /ˌɡʊdˈwɪl/ kind feelings towards or between people A fund was set up as a gesture of
and a willingness to be helpful goodwill to survivors and their
families.
cohesive adj /kəʊˈhiːsɪv/ uniting people or things Historically, sport has been a cohesive
force in international relations.
division n /dəˈvɪʒən/ a group that does a particular job within She works in the Computer Services
a large organisation Division.
inhabitant n /ɪnˈhæbətənt/ one of the people who live in a particular It’s a city of six million inhabitants.
place
ethnic adj /ˈeθnɪk/ relating to a particular race, nation, or The school teaches pupils from
tribe and their customs and traditions different ethnic groups.
virtual adj /ˈvɜːtʃuəl/ made, done, seen etc on the Internet or The website allows you to take a
on a computer, rather than in the real virtual tour of the art gallery.
world
facilities n pl /fəˈsɪlətiz/ rooms, equipment, or services that are The hotel has its own pool and leisure
provided for a particular purpose facilities.
policy n /ˈpɒləsi/ a way of doing something that has been The company has adopted a strict no-
officially agreed and chosen by a political smoking policy.
party, a business, or another
organisation
integrate v /ˈɪntəɡreɪt/ to become part of a group or society and Many children with learning
be accepted by them, or to help difficulties are integrated into
someone do this ordinary schools.
appreciative adj /əˈpriːʃətɪv/ grateful for something She was appreciative of Greg’s
concern for her health.
liberal adj /ˈlɪbərəl/ willing to understand and respect other I had quite liberal parents.
people’s ideas, opinions, and feelings
outraged adj /ˈaʊtreɪdʒd/ very angry and shocked Customers were outraged by the price
increases.

27
devoted adj /dɪˈvəʊtəd/ giving someone or something a lot of He’s always been a devoted father.
love and attention
conscientious adj /ˌkɒnʃiˈenʃəs/ careful to do everything that it is your A conscientious teacher may feel
job or duty to do inclined to take work home.
tolerant adj /ˈtɒlərənt/ allowing people to do, say, or believe Luckily, my parents were tolerant of
what they want without criticising or my choice of music.
punishing them
impact n /ˈɪmpækt/ the effect or influence that an event, We need to assess the impact on
situation etc has on someone or climate change.
something
disparity n /dɪˈspærəti/ a difference between two or more There is still a disparity between the
things, especially an unfair one rates of pay for men and women.
domesticated adj /dəˈmestɪkeɪtəd/ domesticated animals are able to work Even domesticated dogs can be quite
for people or live with them as pets frightening to some children.
vulnerable adj /ˈvʌlnərəbəl/ someone who is vulnerable can be easily We work mainly with the elderly and
harmed or hurt other vulnerable groups.
behaviour n /bɪˈheɪvjə/ the things that a person or animal does Scientists have made detailed
observations of animal behaviour.
dependency n /dɪˈpendənsi/ when you depend on the help and The financial dependency of some
support of someone or something else in women on men is problematic.
order to exist or be successful
depiction n /dɪˈpɪkʃən/ a description of something or someone His stories are depictions of life in
in writing or speech, or in a painting, Trinidad as seen through the eyes of a
picture etc young boy.
attribute n /ˈætrəbjuːt/ a quality or feature, especially one that is What attributes should a good
considered to be good or useful manager possess?
deficit n /ˈdefəsət/ the difference between the amount of The party is facing a deficit of £1.3
something that you have and the higher million for this year, so it must find
amount that you need ways of cutting its costs.
deteriorate v /dɪˈtɪəriəreɪt/ to become worse Ethel’s health has deteriorated.

28
socialisation n /ˌsəʊʃəl-aɪˈzeɪʃən/ the process by which people, especially Schools play an important part in the
children, are made to behave in a way socialisation of our children.
that is acceptable in their society
conversation n /ˌkɒnvəˈseɪʃən/ an informal talk in which people They had a short conversation in
exchange news, feelings, and thoughts German and seemed to be
disagreeing about something.

29
MODULE 9
Word Part of speech Pronunciation Definition Example sentence

multitasking n /ˈmʌltiˌtɑːskɪŋ/ when a person does more than one Women are traditionally supposed to
thing at a time be good at multitasking.
work-life balance n phr /ˌwɜːk laɪf the ability to give a sensible amount You can’t have a proper work-life
ˈbæləns/ of time and effort to your work and to balance if you’re in the office for 12
your life outside work, for example to hours a day.
your family or to other interests
employability n /ɪmˌplɔɪəˈbɪləti/ the state of having skills or qualities The training scheme aims to increase
that are necessary to get a job people’s employability.
overwhelm v /ˌəʊvəˈwelm/ if work or a problem overwhelms We were overwhelmed by the
someone, it is too much or too number of applications.
difficult to deal with
terms n pl /tɜːmz/ a word or expression with a particular ‘Multimedia’ is the term for any
meaning, especially one that is used technique combining sounds and
for a specific subject or type of images.
language
conscious adj /ˈkɒnʃəs/ conscious thoughts, memories etc are Without conscious thought, she
ones which you know about instinctively placed a hand on his arm.
futile adj /ˈfjuːtaɪl/ actions that are futile are useless My efforts to go back to sleep proved
because they have no chance of being futile.
successful
trait n /treɪ, treɪt/ a particular quality in someone’s He suffers from a mental illness that is
character associated with particular personality
traits.
distraction n /dɪˈstrækʃən/ something that stops you paying I study in the library as there are too
attention to what you are doing many distractions at home.
investment n /ɪnˈvestmənt/ when you spend a large amount of Her success took a huge investment of
time, energy, emotion etc on time and effort.
something

30
capability n /ˌkeɪpəˈbɪləti/ the natural ability, skill, or power that Does the company have the capability
makes a machine, person, or to change to meet market needs?
organisation able to do something,
especially something difficult
accomplished adj /əˈkʌmplɪʃt/ an accomplished writer, painter, He’s a highly accomplished pianist.
singer etc is very skilful
single-minded adj /ˌsɪŋɡəl ˈmaɪndəd/ someone who is single-minded has During a war, a leader must be single-
one clear aim and works very hard to minded and, if necessary, ruthless.
achieve it
tenacious adj /təˈneɪʃəs/ determined to do something and McTaggart was seen by many in the
unwilling to stop trying even when the environment movement as a
situation becomes difficult tenacious hero.
pivotal adj /ˈpɪvətəl/ more important than anything else in The Bank of England has a pivotal
a situation, system etc role in the London money market.
apprentice n /əˈprentəs/ someone who works for an employer She works in the hairdresser’s as an
for a fixed period of time in order to apprentice.
learn a particular skill or job
entrepreneur n /ˌɒntrəprəˈnɜː/ someone who starts a new business
or arranges business deals in order to
make money, often in a way that
involves financial risks
incentive n /ɪnˈsentɪv/ something that encourages you to We need to create an incentive for
work harder, start a new activity etc people to recycle their rubbish.
lucrative adj /ˈluːkrətɪv/ a job or activity that is lucrative lets He inherited a lucrative business from
you earn a lot of money his father.
monopoly n /məˈnɒpəli/ if a company or government has a For years Bell Telephone had a
monopoly of a business or political monopoly on telephone services in
activity, it has complete control of it the US.
so that other organisations cannot
compete with it
worth n /wɜːθ/ how much money something is worth It is difficult to estimate the current
worth of the company.
economy n /ɪˈkɒnəmi/ the system by which a country’s We’ve noted the slowdown in the
money and goods are produced and Japanese economy lately.
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 used, or a country considered in this
way
enable v /ɪˈneɪbəl/ to make it possible for someone to do The loan enabled Jan to buy the
something, or for something to house.
happen
infrastructure n /ˈɪnfrəˌstrʌktʃə/ the basic systems and structures that Some countries lack a suitable
a country or organisation needs in economic infrastructure.
order to work properly, for example
roads, railways, banks etc
competitor n /kəmˈpetətə/ a person, team, company etc that is Last year they sold twice as many
competing with another computers as their competitors.
exploits n pl /ˈeksplɔɪts/ brave and exciting adventures that The book relates the daring exploits of
someone has had the British Parachute Regiment.
potential adj /pəˈtenʃəl/ likely to develop into a particular type The potential benefits must be
of person or thing in the future weighed up against the costs
involved.
freelance v /ˈfriːlɑːns/ to work independently for different He’s freelancing for several
companies rather than being translation agencies.
employed by one particular company
hierarchical adj /haɪˈrɑːkɪkəl/ if a system, organisation etc is The UK Civil Service is a very
hierarchical, people or things are hierarchical organisation where pay
divided into levels of importance depends on rank.
reservation n /ˌrezəˈveɪʃən/ a feeling of doubt because you do not I had serious reservations about his
agree completely with a plan, idea, or appointment as captain.
suggestion
workforce n /ˈwɜːkfɔːs/ all the people who work in a Women now represent almost 50% of
particular industry or company, or are the workforce.
available to work in a particular
country or area
utilise v /ˈjuːtəlaɪz/ to use something for a particular We must consider how best to utilise
purpose what resources we have.

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collaborative adj /kəˈlæbərətɪv/ involving two or more people working Collaborative working between the
together to achieve something countries resulted in finding solutions
more quickly.
autonomy n /ɔːˈtɒnəmi/ the ability or opportunity to make Teachers are given considerable
your own decisions without being individual autonomy.
controlled by anyone else
inclusivity n /ˌɪnkluːˈsɪvəti/ a situation or state in which a wide Not everyone shares his vision of
variety of people, things etc are inclusivity in America.
included
network n /ˈnetwɜːk/ a group of people, organisations etc It’s important to build up a network of
that are connected or that work professional contacts.
together
contemporary adj /kənˈtempərəri, - belonging to the present time, What is the role of television in
pəri/ modern contemporary society?
functional adj /ˈfʌŋkʃənəl/ designed to be useful rather than She designs buildings that are
beautiful or attractive sensitively designed, not purely
functional.
integration n /ˌɪntəˈɡreɪʃən/ the combining of two or more things The various units are improved by
so that they work together effectively their integration into a streamlined
network.

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MODULE 10
Word Part of Pronunciation Definition Example sentence
speech
aptitude n /ˈæptətjuːd/ natural ability or skill, especially in He has a natural aptitude for
learning teaching.
correlate v /ˈkɒrəleɪt/ if two or more facts, ideas etc correlate Poverty and poor housing correlate
or if you correlate them, they are closely with a shorter life expectancy.
connected to each other or one causes
the other
efficiency n /ɪˈfɪʃənsi/ the quality of doing something well and There have been considerable
effectively, without wasting time, advancements in energy efficiency.
money, or energy
mediate v /ˈmiːdieɪt/ to change the effect or influence of Exercise may mediate the effects of
(something), especially to make the a bad diet.
effect less bad
diverge v /daɪˈvɜːdʒ, də-/ if similar things diverge, they develop in The two species diverged millions of
different ways and so are no longer years ago.
similar
intricate adj /ˈɪntrɪkət/ containing many small parts or details Lasers are used to cut intricate
that all work or fit together designs in the metal.
discern v /dɪˈsɜːn/ to notice or understand (something) by A number of differences can be
thinking about it carefully discerned in the data for the three
countries.
immersion n /ɪˈmɜːʃən/ the fact of being completely involved in The book was a result of my
something you are doing immersion in black music and
culture.
facilitate v /fəˈsɪləteɪt/ to make it easier for a process or activity Computers can be used to facilitate
to happen language learning.
conjecture n /kənˈdʒektʃə/ an idea or opinion formed by guessing My results show that this conjecture
was, in fact, correct.
foster v /ˈfɒstə/ to help (a skill, feeling, idea etc) develop The bishop helped foster the sense
over a period of time of a community embracing all
classes.
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vital adj /ˈvaɪtl/ extremely important and necessary for The work she does is absolutely
something to succeed or exist vital.
assumption n /əˈsʌmpʃən/ something that you think is true although My calculations were based on the
you have no definite proof assumption that house prices would
remain steady.
concept n /ˈkɒnsept/ an idea of how something is, or how These ideas are based on the
something should be done concept of infinite space.
implication n /ˌɪmpləˈkeɪʃən/ a possible future effect or result of an This election has profound
action, event, decision etc implications for the future of U.S.
democracy.
insight n /ˈɪnsaɪt/ a sudden clear understanding of The article gives us a real insight into
something or part of something, the causes of the present economic
especially a complicated situation or idea crisis.
speculation n /ˌspekjəˈleɪʃən/ when you guess about the possible The move has prompted renewed
causes or effects of something without speculation that an election will be
knowing all the facts, or the guesses that held in April.
you make
inference n /ˈɪnfərəns/ something that you think is true, based What inferences have you drawn
on information that you have from this evidence?
cite v /saɪt/ to mention (something) as an example, The judge cited a 1956 Supreme
especially one that supports, proves, or Court ruling in her decision.
explains an idea or situation
tangible adj /ˈtændʒəbəl/ clear enough or definite enough to be He has no tangible evidence of
easily seen or noticed John’s guilt.
underlying adj /ˌʌndəˈlaɪ-ɪŋ/ an underlying cause, idea etc is the most There is an underlying
important, although it is not easily assumption that younger workers
noticed are easier to train.
laterally adv /ˈlætərəli/ (thinking) in a way that uses your We prefer designers who can think
imagination to see relationships between laterally.
things that are not normally thought of
together
impression n /ɪmˈpreʃən/ the opinion or feeling you have about I got the impression that she wasn't
someone or something because of the very happy with her job.
way they seem
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flair n /fleə/ a way of doing things that is interesting This is a job for which artistic flair is
and shows imagination essential.
bias n /ˈbaɪəs/ an opinion about whether a person, It’s clear that the company has a
group, or idea is good or bad that bias against women and minorities.
influences how you deal with it
unconventional adj /ˌʌnkənˈvenʃənəl/ very different from the way people His approach to business may seem
usually behave, think, dress etc unconventional, but he certainly
gets results.
innovation n /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/ the introduction of new ideas or We must encourage innovation if
methods the company is to remain
competitive.
collaboration n /kəˌlæbəˈreɪʃən/ when you work together with another The project has involved
person or group to achieve something, collaboration with the geography
especially in science or art department.
perseverance n /ˌpɜːsəˈvɪərəns/ determination to keep trying to achieve It took perseverance to overcome
something in spite of difficulties – use his reading problems.
this to show approval
instigate v /ˈɪnstəɡeɪt/ to make (a process) start, especially one Charles instigated a programme of
relating to law or politics reforms.
launch v /lɔːntʃ/ to start (something), usually something The organisation has launched a
big or important campaign to raise $150,000.
impede v /ɪmˈpiːd/ to make it difficult for someone or Storms at sea impeded our progress.
something to move forward or make
progress
threshold n /ˈθreʃhəʊld, - the beginning of a new and important The creature is on the threshold of
ʃəʊld/ event or development extinction.
misconceived adj /ˌmɪskənˈsiːvd/ a misconceived idea, plan, method etc is His arguments are totally
not a good one because it is based on a misconceived.
wrong understanding of something
solely adv /ˈsəʊl-li/ not involving anything or anyone else Scholarships are given solely on the
basis of financial need.
inhibit v /ɪnˈhɪbət/ to prevent something from growing or An unhappy family life may inhibit
developing well children’s learning.

36
adhere v /ədˈhɪə/ to continue to behave according to a I have adhered strictly to the rules.
particular rule, agreement, or belief
allegedly adv /əˈledʒədli/ used when reporting something that He was driving a sports car that he
people say is true, although it has not had allegedly stolen in Manchester.
been proved
notion n /ˈnəʊʃən/ an idea, belief, or opinion I don't believe the notion that
human beings are basically good.

37