PART 11

1. forbidding (adjective)
definition: Appearing unfriendly, dangerous, or threatening.
example (context C1–C2): The castle stood on a hill, its dark silhouette looking
forbidding in the storm.
2. immitigable (adjective)
definition: Unable to be lessened, softened, or made less severe.
example (context C1–C2): They faced an immitigable foe that showed no mercy.
3. insidious (adjective)
definition: Proceeding gradually but with harmful effects; treacherous.
example (context C1–C2): The disease has an insidious onset, making early detection
difficult.
4. unholy (adjective)
definition: Extremely bad, shocking, or morally wrong.
example (context C1–C2): The deal was an unholy alliance between criminals and
corrupt officials.
5. frivolous (adjective)
definition: Not serious or having little value; silly or unimportant.
example (context C1–C2): The judge dismissed the lawsuit as frivolous.

B. Law & Legal Terms

6. litigate (verb)
definition: To take a dispute to a court of law.
example (context C1–C2): They decided to litigate rather than settle out of court.
7. non-justiciable (adjective)
definition: Not capable of being decided by a court because it is outside its jurisdiction.
example (context C1–C2): The issue was deemed non-justiciable by the constitutional
court.
8. plaintiff (noun)
definition: A person or organization that brings a legal action against another in court.
example (context C1–C2): The plaintiff claimed damages for breach of contract.
9. prosecute (verb)
definition: To officially accuse someone of a crime in a court of law.
example (context C1–C2): The company was prosecuted for violating environmental
regulations.
10. tortious (adjective)
definition: Relating to or constituting a wrongful act leading to legal liability.
example (context C1–C2): The court held him liable for tortious interference with the
contract.
11. vexatious (adjective)
definition: Causing or tending to cause annoyance, frustration, or worry; (legal) relating
 to legal actions brought without sufficient grounds.
example (context C1–C2): The judge warned against vexatious litigation intended to
delay the process.

C. Knowledge & Awareness

12. omniscient (adjective)

definition: Knowing everything.
example (context C1–C2): The novel’s omniscient narrator revealed every character’s
thoughts.
13. lactose-intolerant (adjective)
definition: Unable to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products.
example (context C1–C2): Being lactose-intolerant, he avoids cheese and milk.
14. keep abreast of (idiom)
definition: To remain informed about the latest developments in something.
example (context C1–C2): She reads the news daily to keep abreast of current affairs.
15. be no stranger to sth (idiom)
definition: To be familiar with or experienced in something.
example (context C1–C2): He is no stranger to hard work and long hours.
16. clued in (adjective)
definition: Having special knowledge about something; well-informed.
example (context C1–C2): She’s clued in on the latest trends in fashion.
17. conversant (adjective)
definition: Familiar with or knowledgeable about something.
example (context C1–C2): He’s conversant with international trade regulations.
18. erudite (adjective)
definition: Having or showing great knowledge.
example (context C1–C2): The professor was erudite in both classical literature and
modern philosophy.
19. forearmed (adjective)
definition: Equipped in advance with knowledge or preparation.
example (context C1–C2): Forewarned is forearmed when it comes to potential risks.
20. genned up (adjective)
definition: Well-informed about something, often after deliberate study or research.
example (context C1–C2): I got genned up on company policy before the interview.
21. hyper-conscious (adjective)
definition: Extremely aware or self-aware.
example (context C1–C2): She is hyper-conscious of how others perceive her.
22. interoceptive (adjective)
definition: Relating to the perception of sensations from inside the body.
example (context C1–C2): Good interoceptive awareness can help manage stress levels.
23. ivory tower (noun)
definition: A place or situation where someone is out of touch with real-world concerns.
 example (context C1–C2): Critics say academics live in an ivory tower, disconnected
from everyday life.
24. keep/put sb in the picture (idiom)
definition: To give someone the information they need to know.
example (context C1–C2): Please keep me in the picture about any changes in the
schedule.
25. know where you stand (idiom)
definition: To be certain about your position or relationship in a situation.
example (context C1–C2): I appreciate honest feedback so I know where I stand.
26. on the ball (idiom)
definition: Quick to understand and react to things.
example (context C1–C2): We need someone who’s really on the ball for this fast-paced
project.
27. know sth inside out (idiom)
definition: To know something extremely well.
example (context C1–C2): She knows the city’s public transport system inside out.
28. privy (adjective)
definition: Sharing in the knowledge of something secret or private.
example (context C1–C2): He was privy to confidential information about the merger.
29. preliterate (adjective)
definition: Relating to a time before the use of writing.
example (context C1–C2): The artifact dates back to a preliterate society.
30. repository (noun)
definition: A place where things are stored; a person who possesses a lot of knowledge.
example (context C1–C2): The library is a repository of historical records.
31. with your eyes open (idiom)
definition: Being fully aware of the possible problems before starting something.
example (context C1–C2): She went into the marriage with her eyes open.

D. Wealth & Status

32. well-to-do / well-heeled (adjective)

definition: Wealthy; having plenty of money.
example (context C1–C2): The well-heeled residents of the suburb rarely take public
transport.
33. sadder but wiser (idiom)
definition: Having learned from a bad or disappointing experience.
example (context C1–C2): He came out of the failed business venture sadder but wiser.

E. Perspectives & Views

34. a bird’s eye view (idiom)
definition: A view from high above; a general overview of something.
example (context C1–C2): The drone gave us a bird’s eye view of the festival grounds.
35. cityscape (noun)
definition: The visual appearance of a city or urban area.
example (context C1–C2): The cityscape was dotted with skyscrapers and neon lights.
36. grandstand (noun)
definition: A structure for spectators; (verb) to seek attention or show off.
example (context C1–C2): The mayor was accused of grandstanding during the debate.
37. hellscape (noun)
definition: A place or situation that is extremely unpleasant or chaotic.
example (context C1–C2): The battlefield was a hellscape of smoke and destruction.
38. in the fore/background (phrase)
definition: In the most noticeable position / in a less noticeable position behind others.
example (context C1–C2): The hero stood in the foreground while the mountains loomed
in the background.
39.  panorama (noun)
definition: Quang cảnh rộng lớn bao quát, tầm nhìn toàn cảnh.
example (C1): From the hilltop, we enjoyed a stunning panorama of the valley.
40.  -scape (suffix)
definition: Hậu tố chỉ một khung cảnh hoặc cảnh quan cụ thể.
example (C1): The cityscape was dominated by skyscrapers.
41.  scold (verb)
definition: Mắng mỏ, trách mắng, thường với trẻ em hoặc người dưới quyền.
example (C1): She scolded her son for being late.
42.  chide (verb)
definition: Khiển trách nhẹ nhàng, nhắc nhở.
example (C2): The teacher chided the students for talking during the lesson.
43.  chew out (phrasal verb)
definition: Mắng té tát, chỉ trích gay gắt.
example (C1): The coach chewed out the team for their poor performance.
44.  upbraid (verb)
definition: Khiển trách nghiêm khắc.
example (C2): The manager upbraided the staff for missing the deadline.
45.  take down a peg (idiom)
definition: Hạ bớt sự tự cao của ai đó.
example (C1): He was taken down a peg after boasting too much about his success.
46.  admonish (verb)
definition: Cảnh báo, nhắc nhở nghiêm khắc nhưng mang tính xây dựng.
example (C2): The judge admonished the witness for speaking out of turn.
47.  censure (verb)
definition: Chỉ trích nặng nề, thường ở mức chính thức.
example (C2): The senator was censured for unethical conduct.
48.  reprimand (verb)
definition: Khiển trách chính thức.
example (C1): He was reprimanded for being late to work repeatedly.
49.  reprove (verb)
definition: Chỉ trích, trách mắng nhẹ nhàng.
example (C2): The teacher reproved the child for not paying attention.
50.  a boot/kick up the/your backside (idiom)
definition: Lời hoặc hành động thúc ép ai đó hành động ngay.
example (C1): What he needs is a kick up the backside to get moving.
51.  barracking (noun)
definition: Hét, la ó phản đối, thường ở sự kiện công cộng.
example (C1): The politician faced constant barracking from the crowd.
52.  bawl out (phrasal verb)
definition: Mắng to tiếng, nạt nộ.
example (C1): The sergeant bawled out the recruits for being sloppy.
53.  be on the carpet (idiom)
definition: Bị gọi lên để bị phê bình hoặc kỷ luật.
example (C1): She was on the carpet for missing the client meeting.
54.  beat sth up (phrasal verb)
definition: Chỉ trích gay gắt; hoặc đánh đập (nghĩa đen).
example (C1): The media beat up the company over its poor safety record.
55.  berate (verb)
definition: Mắng nhiếc, quở trách nghiêm khắc.
example (C2): He berated himself for making such a careless mistake.
56.  bollocking (noun, slang)
definition: Một trận mắng nhiếc dữ dội.
example (C1): The players got a bollocking from the coach after losing.
57.  castigate (verb)
definition: Khiển trách gay gắt, trừng phạt bằng lời.
example (C2): The critic castigated the film for its lack of originality.
58.  crucify (verb, informal)
definition: Chỉ trích nặng nề, làm nhục công khai.
example (C1): The press crucified the celebrity over her comments.
59.  get it in the neck (idiom)
definition: Bị chỉ trích hoặc trừng phạt nặng nề.
example (C1): I really got it in the neck for missing that deadline.
60.  get/be given a rocket (idiom, UK informal)
definition: Bị mắng nghiêm trọng.
example (C1): The manager gave him a rocket for his careless work.
61.  jump down sb’s throat (idiom)
definition: Phản ứng tức giận, mắng ngay lập tức.
example (C1): Don’t jump down my throat—I was only asking a question.
62.  jump on sb (phrasal verb)
definition: Phê bình hoặc tấn công bằng lời nói ngay lập tức.
example (C1): The teacher jumped on him for forgetting his homework.
63.  keelhaul (verb)
definition: Trừng phạt nghiêm khắc (gốc từ hình phạt thủy thủ).
example (C2): The captain threatened to keelhaul anyone caught stealing.
64.  pick sb up on sth (phrasal verb)
definition: Chỉ ra lỗi hoặc sai sót của ai đó.
example (C1): She picked me up on a small grammatical mistake.
65.  rap sb over the knuckles (idiom)
definition: Khiển trách nhẹ nhàng.
example (C1): The committee rapped the minister over the knuckles for the delay.
66.  read sb the riot act (idiom)
definition: Cảnh cáo nghiêm khắc để chấm dứt hành vi sai trái.
example (C2): The boss read them the riot act for missing the deadline.
67.  ream sb out (phrasal verb, US informal)
definition: Mắng dữ dội.
example (C1): The coach reamed out the players for their sloppy defense.
68.  reprehend (verb, formal)
definition: Khiển trách, quở trách.
example (C2): The principal reprehended the student for cheating.
69.  reproof (noun)
definition: Lời khiển trách nhẹ.
example (C2): She accepted the reproof without protest.
70.  scapegoating (noun)
definition: Đổ lỗi cho ai đó để tránh trách nhiệm.
example (C1): The employee accused the company of scapegoating him.
71.  skin sb alive (idiom)
definition: Mắng hoặc trừng phạt ai đó dữ dội.
example (C1): If you’re late again, the boss will skin you alive.
72.  tear a strip off sb (idiom)
definition: Mắng nghiêm trọng.
example (C1): The teacher tore a strip off the students for cheating.
73.  give sb a (good) telling-off (idiom)
definition: Mắng một trận ra trò.
example (C1): The child got a telling-off for drawing on the wall.
74.  throw the book at sb (idiom)
definition: Trừng phạt ai đó ở mức tối đa.
example (C2): The judge threw the book at him for repeated offenses.
75.  tick sb off (phrasal verb, informal)
definition: Mắng ai đó; hoặc làm ai khó chịu.
example (C1): She really ticked me off with her rude comments.
76.  tongue-lashing (noun)
definition: Lời mắng nhiếc dữ dội.
example (C1): The manager gave the team a tongue-lashing after the loss.
77.  desensitize (verb)
definition: To make someone less sensitive to something, especially unpleasant or
emotional.
example (context: psychology – media)
Constant exposure to violent movies can desensitize viewers to real-life violence.
78.  dial sth down/up (phrasal verb)
definition: To decrease/increase the intensity or effect of something.
 example (context: presentation – emotions)
She dialed down her excitement to keep the meeting professional.
79.  dilute sth with (phrasal verb)
definition: To make something weaker by mixing it with another substance.
example (context: drinks – metaphor)
The juice was diluted with too much water.
80.  dim (verb)
definition: To make or become less bright, clear, or strong.
example (context: lights – memory)
The lights dimmed as the show began.
81.  emasculate (verb)
definition: To make someone or something weaker, less effective, or less confident.
example (context: society – power)
Critics said the amendments emasculated the original reform bill.
82.  enervate (verb)
definition: To weaken or drain energy from someone or something.
example (context: fatigue – heat)
The hot sun enervated the marathon runners.
83.  enfeeble (verb)
definition: To make weak or feeble.
example (context: illness – aging)
Years of illness had enfeebled his body.
84.  flagging (adjective)
definition: Becoming weaker, slower, or less enthusiastic.
example (context: energy – business)
The company’s flagging sales needed a boost.
85.  hedge (verb)
definition: To avoid giving a clear answer; to protect against loss.
example (context: conversation – investment)
He hedged when asked about his political views.
86.  wane (verb)
definition: To decrease gradually in size, strength, or intensity.
example (context: moon – interest)
Her enthusiasm for the project began to wane after several setbacks.
87.  melt away (phrasal verb)
definition: To disappear slowly.
example (context: fear – crowd)
As the concert ended, the crowd melted away.
88.  muffle (verb)
definition: To soften a sound; to cover or wrap something to reduce its impact.
example (context: noise – cold)
He muffled his cough with a scarf.
89.  sapping (adjective)
definition: Gradually weakening or draining strength.
example (context: effort – endurance)
The sapping heat made outdoor work exhausting.
90.  tone sth down (phrasal verb)
definition: To make something less extreme, intense, or harsh.
example (context: speech – colors)
She toned down her criticism to avoid offending him.
91.  undimmed (adjective)
definition: Not reduced in brightness, clarity, or intensity.
example (context: passion – memory)
Her love for music remained undimmed after decades.
92.  watered-down (adjective)
definition: Made weaker or less effective.
example (context: drinks – policies)
The final agreement was a watered-down version of the original proposal.
93.  wither (verb)
definition: To shrivel, dry up, or weaken.
example (context: plants – ambition)
The flowers withered under the hot sun.
94.  wither on the vine (idiom)
definition: To fail to develop or succeed, often due to neglect.
example (context: projects – opportunities)
The idea withered on the vine when funding was withdrawn.
95.  diminish (verb)
definition: To make or become smaller, weaker, or less important.
example (context: respect – light)
His constant lateness diminished his credibility.
96.  ebb (verb)
definition: To gradually decrease; to move away from land (tide).
example (context: tide – feelings)
Public interest in the scandal began to ebb.
97.  peter out (phrasal verb)
definition: To gradually stop or disappear.
example (context: energy – conversation)
The excitement petered out after the initial success.
98.  straight from the horse's mouth (idiom)
definition: Directly from the original or most reliable source.
example (context: news – information)
I heard it straight from the horse’s mouth that the company is expanding.
99.  a wild ride (idiom)
definition: An exciting, unpredictable, or turbulent experience.
example (context: adventure – business)
Starting my own business has been a wild ride.
100.  afflict (verb)
definition: To cause pain or suffering to someone or something.
example (context: illness – poverty)
Millions are afflicted by preventable diseases each year.
101.  battle scar (noun)
definition: A visible or metaphorical mark left by a difficult experience.
 example (context: war – resilience)
His battle scars told stories of courage and survival.
102.  fall victim/prey to (idiom)
definition: To be harmed or affected by something bad.
example (context: crime – scams)
Many elderly people fall prey to phone scams.
103.  devoured (verb)
definition: To eat hungrily or consume eagerly.
example (context: food – books)
She devoured the novel in one night.
104.  in the grip of sth (idiom)
definition: Fully affected or controlled by something.
example (context: crisis – fear)
The city is in the grip of a severe heatwave.
105.  be on the rack (idiom)
definition: To be in extreme discomfort, worry, or pain.
example (context: stress – guilt)
He’s been on the rack waiting for the exam results.
106.  on the receiving end (idiom)
definition: Being the target of an action, usually negative.
example (context: criticism – attack)
She’s been on the receiving end of unfair criticism.
107.  pitched into sth (idiom)
definition: To be suddenly thrown into a difficult situation.
example (context: war – crisis)
The country was pitched into chaos after the coup.
108.  be staring at (phrasal verb)
definition: Facing something challenging or inevitable.
example (context: deadlines – reality)
We’re staring at a massive budget deficit.
109.  by the seat of your pants (idiom)
definition: Doing something by instinct without planning.
example (context: work – improvisation)
We managed the event by the seat of our pants.
110.  casualty (noun)
definition: A person or thing harmed, injured, or killed in an event.
example (context: war – accidents)
The first casualty of war is often the truth.
111.  condemn (verb)
definition: To strongly disapprove of something or declare it wrong.
example (context: morality – politics)
The government condemned the attack as an act of terrorism.
112.  creep up on (phrasal verb)
definition: To approach someone or something quietly; to happen gradually and
unexpectedly.
 example (context: illness – deadlines)
Deadlines have a way of creeping up on you.
113.  grief-stricken (adjective)
definition: Overcome with deep sorrow.
example (context: loss – tragedy)
She was grief-stricken after the sudden death of her friend.
114.  nurture (verb)
definition: To care for and encourage growth or development.
example (context: parenting – education)
Teachers should nurture students’ creativity.
115.  overexpose (verb)
definition: To make something appear too often, reducing its impact; to expose to too
much light.
example (context: media – photography)
The celebrity was overexposed in the media.
116.  pay the price (idiom)
definition: To suffer the consequences of a bad decision or action.
example (context: sports – mistakes)
If you don’t train properly, you’ll pay the price on race day.
117.  take the plunge (idiom)
definition: to decide to do something risky or difficult after thinking about it for a while.
example (context: career change – informal): After years in accounting, she finally took
the plunge and started her own bakery.
118.  ride out the storm (idiom)
definition: to survive a difficult situation without being harmed.
example (context: business – neutral): The company managed to ride out the storm
during the economic downturn.
119.  rock the boat (idiom)
definition: to do or say something that causes trouble or disturbs a stable situation.
example (context: workplace – informal): He didn’t want to rock the boat by questioning
the manager’s decision.
120.  run a tight ship (idiom)
definition: to manage an organization or operation in a strict, efficient way.
example (context: leadership – neutral): The new principal runs a tight ship at the school.
121.  rough justice/luck (noun, idiom)
definition: unfair or undeserved treatment; unfortunate circumstances.
example (context: sports – informal): Missing the final after such a great season was
rough luck.
122.  run the gauntlet (idiom)
definition: to go through a difficult or dangerous experience, often involving criticism or
attack.
example (context: politics – neutral): The minister had to run the gauntlet of reporters
after the scandal broke.
123.  run up against (phrasal verb)
definition: to encounter an unexpected difficulty or problem.
 example (context: project – neutral): We ran up against a legal issue that delayed the
launch.
124.  the depths of sth (idiom)
definition: the most extreme or intense part of something, often negative.
example (context: emotional – descriptive): She was in the depths of despair after the
loss.
125.  a little bird told me (idiom)
definition: used to indicate that the speaker knows something but does not want to reveal
the source.
example (context: casual – playful): A little bird told me it’s your birthday today.
126.  anecdotal (adjective)
definition: based on personal accounts rather than scientific or reliable evidence.
example (context: research – formal): The study relied too heavily on anecdotal evidence.
127.  dig for dirt (idiom)
definition: to look for information, especially unpleasant or scandalous, about someone.
example (context: journalism – informal): Reporters were digging for dirt on the mayor’s
past.
128.  gossip about sth (verb phrase)
definition: to talk about other people’s private lives, often spreading rumors.
example (context: workplace – informal): She hates it when colleagues gossip about her.
129.  hear sth through/on the grapevine (idiom)
definition: to hear news or information unofficially, through rumors.
example (context: casual – informal): I heard on the grapevine that they’re getting
married.
130.  hearsay/gainsay/sayso (noun)
definition: information received from others that cannot be confirmed; rumor.
example (context: legal – formal): The court cannot accept hearsay as evidence.
131.  on everyone’s lips (idiom)
definition: being widely talked about by many people.
example (context: pop culture – informal): The new song is on everyone’s lips this
summer.
132.  peddle (verb)
definition: to promote or sell something, often in a questionable or insistent way.
example (context: media – critical): The website peddles conspiracy theories.
133.  scaremongering (noun)
definition: the act of spreading frightening or exaggerated rumors to influence public
opinion.
example (context: politics – neutral): The opposition accused the government of
scaremongering about immigration.
134.  whisper (verb/noun)
definition: (v) to speak very softly; (n) a quiet or secretive statement.
example (context: suspense – descriptive): She whispered the plan so no one else could
hear.
135.  contract out (phrasal verb)
definition: to arrange for work to be done by an external company rather than internally.
example (context: business – neutral): The company contracted out its cleaning services.
136.  crowdfunder (noun)
definition: a person or platform that raises money from a large number of people,
typically via the internet, for a project or venture.
example (context: startup – neutral): The film was financed through a crowdfunder
campaign.

1. divestment (noun)
definition: The action or process of selling off subsidiary business interests or
investments.
example (context C1–C2): The company’s divestment from coal assets was part of its
sustainability strategy.
2. mercantile (adjective)
definition: Relating to trade or commerce.
example (context C1–C2): The city grew into a mercantile hub in the 18th century.
3. niche market (noun)
definition: A small, specialized segment of the market for a particular product or service.
example (context C1–C2): They targeted a niche market for eco-friendly baby products.
4. nerve center (noun)
definition: A place where an organization or activity is controlled and coordinated.
example (context C1–C2): The operations room is the nerve center of the entire network.
5. offshore (adjective/adverb)
definition: Located in a foreign country, often for financial or legal advantages.
example (context C1–C2): The company moved its headquarters offshore to reduce taxes.
6. acquisition (noun)
definition: The act of gaining possession of something, especially another company.
example (context C1–C2): The tech giant announced the acquisition of a leading AI
startup.
7. agglomerate (noun)
definition: A large mass or group of things clustered together; (verb) to form into a mass
or group.
example (context C1–C2): The city is an agglomerate of diverse cultures and
neighborhoods.
8. amalgamation (noun)
definition: The process of combining two or more things into one, especially companies.
example (context C1–C2): The amalgamation of the two firms created the largest bank in
the country.
9. conglomerate (noun)
definition: A large corporation made up of different companies involved in various
industries.
example (context C1–C2): The conglomerate owns businesses ranging from media to
manufacturing.
10. -oriented (suffix)
definition: Directed toward or focused on a particular thing.
example (context C1–C2): The company is customer-oriented, prioritizing client
satisfaction.
 11. leverage (noun/verb)
definition: (n) The use of resources or influence to achieve a desired result; (v) to use
something to maximum advantage.
example (context C1–C2): They leveraged their brand reputation to expand into new
markets.
12. monopolistic (adjective)
definition: Relating to a monopoly; controlling a market without competition.
example (context C1–C2): The monopolistic practices of the firm led to antitrust
investigations.
13. pre-merger (adjective)
definition: Occurring or existing before a merger between companies.
example (context C1–C2): The report includes pre-merger financial statements.
14. spin sth off (phrasal verb)
definition: To create a new company by separating part of an existing one.
example (context C1–C2): The corporation spun off its software division as an
independent entity.
15. take sth over (phrasal verb)
definition: To gain control of something, especially a company.
example (context C1–C2): A multinational firm took over the local retailer last year.
16. white knight (noun)
definition: A person or company that rescues another from a hostile takeover.
example (context C1–C2): The struggling company found a white knight to save it from
bankruptcy.

B. Names & Naming

17. namesake (noun)

definition: A person or thing having the same name as another.
example (context C1–C2): He was named after his grandfather and is his namesake.
18. conjure up (phrasal verb)
definition: To bring an image, feeling, or memory into someone’s mind.
example (context C1–C2): The smell of baking conjured up memories of her childhood.
19. appellative (noun/adjective)
definition: (n) A name or title; (adj) relating to naming.
example (context C1–C2): “Doctor” is an appellative that commands respect.
20. pseudonym (noun)
definition: A fictitious name, especially one used by an author.
example (context C1–C2): The novelist wrote under a pseudonym to protect her identity.
21. denomination (noun)
definition: A name or designation for a group, often religious or monetary.
example (context C1–C2): The coins come in various denominations.
22. misnomer (noun)
definition: A name that is incorrect or misleading.
example (context C1–C2): “Koala bear” is a misnomer because koalas are not bears.
 23. name-drop (verb)
definition: To casually mention famous or important people you know to impress others.
example (context C1–C2): He kept name-dropping celebrities he’d supposedly met.
24. baptize (verb)
definition: To give a name to someone or something, often in a religious ceremony.
example (context C1–C2): They baptized their daughter Emily Rose.

C. Miscellaneous

25. be no laughing matter (idiom)

definition: Something serious that should not be joked about.
example (context C1–C2): Failing the final exam is no laughing matter.
26. 1. chronic (adj)
definition: (of a problem, illness, or situation) persisting for a long time or constantly
recurring; difficult to eradicate.
example (context: medical & social issues): She suffers from chronic back pain that has
lasted over a decade.
27. 2. fulminating (adj)
definition: expressing vehement protest or criticism; (medical) sudden and severe in
onset.
example (context: medical & rhetorical): The patient had fulminating meningitis,
requiring immediate treatment.
28. 3. grave (adj)
definition: serious or solemn in manner or appearance; giving cause for concern.
example (context: news): The officials gave a grave warning about the incoming storm.
29. 4. high-grade (adj)
definition: of superior quality or value; (medical) referring to aggressive or advanced
disease.
example (context: product quality): The store sells high-grade coffee beans from
Colombia.
30. 5. stiff (adj)
definition: rigid or difficult to bend; severe or strong in degree.
example (context: price): There’s a stiff penalty for breaking the contract.
31. 6. swingeing (adj)
definition: (British) severe, extreme, or very large.
example (context: finance): The company faced swingeing cuts in its budget.
32. 7. utmost (adj)
definition: of the greatest or highest degree; most extreme.
example (context: effort): We will give the utmost attention to your request.
33. 8. do your utmost (phrase)
definition: to make the greatest possible effort to achieve something.
example (context: sports): He did his utmost to win the match, despite the injury.
34. 9. utmost care/importance (phrase)
definition: the highest level of attention or significance given to something.
example (context: safety): The surgery must be performed with the utmost care.
35. 10. acid test (n)
definition: a decisive test that proves the value or quality of something.
example (context: business): The new product’s launch will be the acid test for the
company’s future.
36. 11. actions speak louder than words (idiom)
definition: what you do is more important than what you say.
example (context: leadership): He never makes promises, but his actions speak louder
than words.
37. 12. authenticate (v)
definition: to prove or show that something is genuine or true.
example (context: art): The museum hired an expert to authenticate the painting.
38. 13. bear witness to (phrase)
definition: to show or prove that something exists or is true.
example (context: history): These ruins bear witness to the city’s ancient past.
39. 14. call sb's bluff (idiom)
definition: to challenge someone to prove their claim, believing it to be false.
example (context: poker & negotiation): She called his bluff when he threatened to quit.
40. 15. ruffle/smooth sb’s feathers (idiom)
definition: ruffle – to annoy or upset someone; smooth – to calm or placate someone.
example (context: workplace): His comment ruffled her feathers, but he later smoothed
them by apologizing.
41. 16. confutation (n)
definition: the act of proving a statement or theory to be wrong.
example (context: academic debate): His paper is a confutation of the theory of
spontaneous generation.
42. 17. controvert (v)
definition: to argue against; to dispute.
example (context: law): The defense lawyer controverted the witness’s testimony.
43. 18. confute (v)
definition: to prove a person or argument to be wrong.
example (context: science): The new evidence confuted the old hypothesis.
44. 19. dispel (v)
definition: to make something (e.g., a doubt, feeling, or belief) disappear.
example (context: fear): The teacher’s calm words dispelled the students’ anxiety.
45. 20. nail a lie (idiom)
definition: to expose a falsehood and prove it untrue.
example (context: politics): The journalist nailed the politician’s lie with hard evidence.
46. 21. provable (adj)
definition: capable of being demonstrated or proved.
example (context: law): His claims are provable with the documents provided.
47. 22. show sb in their true colors (idiom)
definition: to reveal a person’s real character.
example (context: friendship): She showed her true colors when she refused to help.
48. 23. unsubstantiated (adj)
definition: not supported by evidence.
example (context: rumor): The allegations are unsubstantiated and damaging.
49. 24. vindicative (adj)
definition: tending to clear someone of blame or suspicion; justifying.
example (context: law): The court’s decision was vindicative for the wrongly accused
man.
50. 25. head and shoulders above sb (idiom)
definition: much better than someone.
example (context: sports): She’s head and shoulders above the other players in the team.
51. 26. eclipse (v)
definition: to overshadow or surpass in importance or quality.
example (context: technology): The new model eclipsed last year’s version in popularity.
52. 27. envelope (n)
definition: the outer covering or limit; (verb phrase “push the envelope”) to go beyond
normal limits.
example (context: aviation): Test pilots often push the envelope to discover new
capabilities.
53. 28. outstrip (v)
definition: to surpass or exceed.
example (context: competition): Our sales have outstripped last year’s figures.
54. 29. outshine (v)
definition: to be more impressive or successful than someone/something.
example (context: performance): She outshone her co-stars on stage.
55. 30. overshadow (v)
definition: to make someone or something seem less important.
example (context: family): His achievements were overshadowed by his father’s fame.
56. 31. push the envelope (idiom)
definition: to go beyond the usual or expected limits.
example (context: innovation): This artist pushes the envelope of digital design.
57. 32. put sb in the shade (idiom)
definition: to be so much better that another person/thing seems unimpressive.
example (context: achievement): Her singing talent puts the others in the shade.
58. 33. be no match for sb (phrase)
definition: to be much weaker or less skilled than someone.
example (context: competition): He was no match for the world champion.
59. 34. transcendently (adv)
definition: in a way that surpasses normal limits; extraordinarily.
example (context: art): The performance was transcendently beautiful.
60. 35. writ (n)
definition: a formal written order issued by a court.
example (context: law): The court issued a writ of summons.
61. 36. lay sth on the line (idiom)
definition: to risk something valuable; to speak frankly.
example (context: business): I’ll lay it on the line – we can’t afford another mistake.
62. 37. put your foot down (idiom)
definition: to be firm and assertive.
example (context: parenting): She put her foot down and refused to allow more TV time.
63. 38. keep your hair on (idiom)
definition: (informal) stay calm; don’t get angry.
example (context: workplace): Keep your hair on – we’ll sort it out.
64. 39. shout sth from the rooftops (idiom)
definition: to publicly and enthusiastically announce something.
example (context: personal news): They shouted their engagement from the rooftops.
65. 40. ablate (v)
definition: to remove or destroy material from the surface by erosion, melting, or
vaporization.
example (context: medical): The surgeon used a laser to ablate the tumor.
66. 41. abstract (v)
definition: to remove something; (adj) theoretical, not concrete.
example (context: research): Data was abstracted from the patient records.
67. 42. bowdlerize (v)
definition: to remove potentially offensive or inappropriate material from a text.
example (context: literature): The publisher bowdlerized the novel for younger readers.
68. 43. carry sth away (phrasal verb)
definition: to remove or transport something; also, to become overly excited.
example (context: cleaning): The workers carried away the broken furniture.
69. 44. clear the decks (idiom)
definition: to prepare for a new activity by getting rid of unnecessary things.
example (context: project): We need to clear the decks before starting the next phase.
70. 45. clear the table (phrase)
definition: to remove dishes after a meal.
example (context: dining): Please clear the table before dessert.
71. 46. comb sth out (phrasal verb)
definition: to untangle or remove unwanted parts.
example (context: cleaning): The stylist combed out the knots in her hair.
72. 47. cold-pressed (adj)
definition: made by pressing without the use of heat, to preserve quality.
example (context: food): I only use cold-pressed olive oil in salads.
73. 48. drain sth down (phrasal verb)
definition: to empty liquid from something.
example (context: maintenance): They drained down the water tank before cleaning.
74. 49. dredge (v)
definition: to remove mud or sand from the bottom of a river, harbor, etc.
example (context: engineering): The riverbed was dredged to allow larger ships to pass.
75. 50. dislodgement (n)
definition: the act of removing or forcing something from its position.
example (context: medical): Tooth dislodgement can occur after an accident.
76. 51. excise (v)
definition: to remove by cutting out.
example (context: surgery): The doctor excised the cyst from the patient’s arm.
77. 52. extricate (v)
definition: to free from a difficult situation.
example (context: rescue): Firefighters extricated the driver from the wrecked car.
78. 53. gouge (v)
definition: to make a deep hole or cut; to overcharge.
example (context: tool use): He accidentally gouged the wood while carving.
79. 54. handpick (v)
definition: to carefully select.
example (context: recruitment): She handpicked the members of her research team.
80. 55. out of circulation (idiom)
definition: not available for social activities or for use.
example (context: illness): I’ve been out of circulation since catching the flu.
81. 56. pluck your eyebrows (phrase)
definition: to remove unwanted hair from the eyebrows with tweezers.
example (context: grooming): She plucked her eyebrows before the photo shoot.
82. punch out (phrasal verb)
definition: To strike with the fist; to press or cut out a shape; to clock out from work.
example (context: work – manufacturing)
He punched out at 5 p.m. and went straight home.
83. rip sth off (phrasal verb)
definition: To steal or cheat someone; to remove something quickly; to copy without
permission.
example (context: scams – fashion)
The store was accused of ripping off a designer’s original work.
84. scoop sth out (phrasal verb)
definition: To remove something by digging or ladling.
example (context: cooking – craft)
She scooped out the seeds before roasting the pumpkin.
85. snowploughing (noun)
definition: A skiing technique where skis are positioned in a “V” shape to slow down;
figuratively, overprotecting or clearing all obstacles for someone.
example (context: sports – parenting)
Snowploughing parents try to remove every challenge from their child’s path.
86. suck sth dry (idiom)
definition: To completely use up a resource or exhaust someone.
example (context: business – energy)
The long meetings sucked me dry of all energy.
87. unboxing (noun)
definition: The act of unpacking new products, often filmed for reviews.
example (context: marketing – social media)
Her gadget unboxing videos have millions of views.
88. wipe sth off sb (phrasal verb)
definition: To clean or remove something from someone’s body.
example (context: mess – care)
She wiped the sauce off the baby’s face.
89. withdrawal (noun)
definition: The act of removing or taking back; the process of stopping a substance or
activity.
example (context: banking – health)
The patient experienced withdrawal symptoms after quitting caffeine.
90. act out (phrasal verb)
definition: To express emotions or impulses through actions rather than words; to
perform a scene.
example (context: psychology – drama)
Children sometimes act out when they feel ignored.
91. attest (verb)
definition: To provide evidence or confirmation of something.
example (context: law – certification)
Her signature attests that the information is accurate.
92. barometer (noun)
definition: An instrument for measuring atmospheric pressure; figuratively, an indicator
of change.
example (context: weather – trends)
Public opinion polls are a barometer of political sentiment.
93. bespeak (verb)
definition: To show or indicate something; to suggest.
example (context: style – condition)
His worn shoes bespeak years of hard work.
94. breastbeating (noun)
definition: A display of extreme remorse or guilt.
example (context: politics – personal)
The politician’s public breastbeating failed to restore his reputation.
95. bring out the best in sb (idiom)
definition: To cause someone to show their most positive qualities.
example (context: teamwork – relationships)
Good teachers bring out the best in their students.
96. bring sth to light (idiom)
definition: To reveal something hidden.
example (context: investigation – history)
The report brought to light several cases of fraud.
97. sth come to light (idiom)
definition: To become known or revealed.
example (context: scandal – discovery)
New evidence came to light during the trial.
98. emanate (verb)
definition: To come forth or spread out from a source.
example (context: smell – influence)
A warm glow emanated from the fireplace.
99. externalize (verb)
definition: To express or show feelings outwardly; to make external.
 example (context: psychology – behavior)
Art therapy helps patients externalize their emotions.
100. flaunting (verb)
definition: Showing off something in a way meant to attract attention.
example (context: wealth – success)
He was flaunting his new sports car around town.
101. guidepost (noun)
definition: A sign or principle that shows the way or direction.
example (context: navigation – metaphor)
Honesty should be your guidepost in all decisions.
102. mark sth out (phrasal verb)
definition: To show the boundaries of something; to make something noticeable.
example (context: sports – identity)
They marked out the playing field with white paint.
103. ostensive (adjective)
definition: Clearly shown or demonstrated; explicitly pointing out.
example (context: teaching – definition)
The teacher gave an ostensive example of the grammar rule.
104. point the way (idiom)
definition: To indicate a direction or provide guidance.
example (context: leadership – innovation)
Her research points the way toward new treatments.
105. probatory (adjective)
definition: Relating to testing, proving, or providing evidence.
example (context: law – trials)
The documents had strong probatory value in court.
106. proclaim (verb)
definition: To announce officially or publicly.
example (context: politics – celebrations)
The president proclaimed a national holiday.
107. speak volumes (idiom)
definition: To convey a lot of meaning without words.
example (context: nonverbal – impression)
His silence spoke volumes about his disapproval.
108. testimony (noun)
definition: A formal statement or declaration, especially in court.
example (context: law – religion)
Her testimony helped convict the criminal.
109. betoken (verb)
definition: To be a sign or indication of something.
example (context: signs – omens)
Dark clouds betoken an approaching storm.
110. tribute (noun)
definition: An act, statement, or gift that shows respect or admiration.
example (context: memorial – honor)
The concert was a tribute to the late composer.
111.  havoc (noun)
definition: widespread destruction, confusion, or disorder.
example (context: natural disaster – neutral): The hurricane wreaked havoc on the coastal
towns.
112.  anarchy (noun)
definition: a state of disorder due to absence or disregard of authority.
example (context: politics – neutral): The country descended into anarchy after the
government collapsed.
113.  chaos (noun)
definition: complete disorder and confusion.
example (context: event – neutral): The concert ended in chaos when the crowd surged
forward.
114.  commotion (noun)
definition: a noisy disturbance or confusion.
example (context: public space – informal): There was a commotion outside the store
after the accident.
115.  disorder (noun)
definition: a state of mess, confusion, or lack of order.
example (context: military – neutral): The troops retreated in disorder after the ambush.
116.  mayhem (noun)
definition: violent disorder or chaos.
example (context: crime – informal): The rioters caused mayhem in the streets.
117.  rumpus (noun, informal)
definition: a noisy or violent disturbance.
example (context: neighborhood – informal): The kids made such a rumpus that the
neighbors complained.
118.  turmoil (noun)
definition: a state of great disturbance, confusion, or uncertainty.
example (context: politics – formal): The country was in political turmoil after the
election.
119.  rational (adjective)
definition: based on reason or logic.
example (context: decision-making – neutral): We need to take a rational approach to
solve this problem.
120.  deductive (adjective)
definition: relating to reasoning from general principles to specific cases.
example (context: philosophy – academic): Sherlock Holmes was famous for his
deductive reasoning.
121.  deducible (adjective)
definition: able to be inferred or derived from known facts or principles.
example (context: science – formal): The cause of the reaction is deducible from the
experiment’s data.
122.  induction (noun)
definition: reasoning from specific examples to general principles; also, the process of
formally admitting someone into a role.
 example (context: logic – academic): Induction can never guarantee the truth of a
conclusion, only its probability.
123.  pseudo-intellectual (noun/adjective)
definition: someone who pretends to be knowledgeable or intellectual without genuine
understanding.
example (context: critique – informal): His arguments sounded deep, but they were just
pseudo-intellectual nonsense.
124.  paradox (noun)
definition: a statement that seems self-contradictory but may reveal an underlying truth.
example (context: philosophy – formal): It’s a paradox that standing still in the river
means you are moving with it.
125.  badger (verb)
definition: to repeatedly ask or bother someone to do something.
example (context: casual – informal): The reporter kept badgering the minister with
questions.
126.  blandish (verb, formal)
definition: to coax or flatter someone into doing something.
example (context: literature – formal): She blandished him into lending her the money.
127.  brainwash (verb)
definition: to manipulate someone’s thinking and beliefs through systematic pressure or
propaganda.
example (context: politics – neutral): The cult leaders tried to brainwash new recruits.
128.  butter sth up (idiom)
definition: to flatter someone to gain favor.
example (context: workplace – informal): He’s just buttering up the boss to get a raise.
129.  browbeat (verb)
definition: to intimidate someone into doing something.
example (context: business – critical): The manager tried to browbeat the staff into
working overtime.
130.  cajole sb into sth/doing sth (phrasal verb)
definition: to persuade someone to do something by flattery or gentle urging.
example (context: personal – informal): She cajoled him into joining the dance
competition.
131.  cheerleading (noun)
definition: enthusiastic support or promotion, sometimes uncritically.
example (context: politics – informal): The news channel’s cheerleading for the candidate
was obvious.
132.  coax sth out of (phrasal verb)
definition: to persuade someone to give you something, often with gentle effort.
example (context: casual – informal): She coaxed the truth out of her shy friend.
133.  exhort (verb)
definition: to strongly encourage or urge someone to do something.
example (context: speech – formal): The coach exhorted the team to give their best
performance.
134.  fast-talker (noun, informal)
definition: a person who speaks quickly and persuasively, often to deceive.
example (context: sales – informal): That car dealer is a real fast-talker.
135.  fish for sth (idiom)
definition: to try subtly to get praise, information, or a reaction.
example (context: casual – informal): He’s always fishing for compliments about his
cooking.
136.  fob sb off (phrasal verb)
definition: to give someone something of little value or importance instead of what they
want.
example (context: retail – informal): They fobbed me off with an excuse instead of fixing
the problem.
137.  goad sb into sth/doing (phrasal verb)
definition: to provoke or annoy someone so much that they do something.
example (context: casual – informal): His rival goaded him into making a mistake.
138.  incite (verb)
definition: to stir up or encourage bad or violent behavior.
example (context: politics – formal): The speech was accused of inciting violence.
139.  intercede (verb)
definition: to intervene on behalf of someone.
example (context: workplace – formal): She interceded with the manager to give him
another chance.
140.  intercession (noun)
definition: the act of intervening on behalf of another person.
example (context: religion – formal): The priest offered intercession for the sick members
of the community.
141.  inveigle (verb, formal)
definition: to persuade someone to do something by deception or flattery.
example (context: literature – formal): He inveigled her into signing the contract.
142.  jockey (verb)
definition: to struggle or compete to gain an advantage.
example (context: business – informal): Several companies are jockeying for market
dominance.
143.  mickey sth out of (idiom, informal, chiefly British)
definition: to tease, trick, or swindle something from someone.
example (context: casual – informal): They mickied the money out of him with a fake
bet.
144.  lean on (phrasal verb)
definition: to pressure or depend on someone for support.
example (context: personal – informal): You can always lean on me when times get
tough.
145.  prevail (verb)
definition: to prove more powerful or successful; to win.
example (context: competition – neutral): Justice will prevail in the end.