Expert Adv Wordlist Word Version 1

ADVANCED EXPERT
Word Part of Pron Definition Example Unit

speech
scrape through phr v skreɪp θruː to only just succeed in passing an Even though she had missed lots of 1
examination or dealing with a difficult classes, Helena managed to scrape
situation through the exam and got an 'E'.
pick a fight v phr pɪk eɪ faɪt to deliberately start a quarrel or fight with Toby won't change his mind so it's not 1
someone worth picking a fight with him.
master's degree n phr ˈmɑːst əz dɪˈɡriː a university degree such as an MA, M.Sc., After I graduate, I want to do a master's 1
or M.S., that you can get by studying for degree in biochemistry.
one or two years after your first degree
work placement n phr wɜːk ˈpleɪsmənt a job, usually as part of a course of study, In their second year, students can do a 1
which gives you experience of a particular work placement and get some valuable
type of work real-life experience.
shadow v ˈʃædəʊ to follow someone closely in order to Detectives shadowed him for weeks. 1
watch what they are doing
set one's heart on v phr ˈset wʌnz ˌhɑːt ɒn to want very much to have or achieve I know you've set your heart on studying 1
something, or to be determined to do abroad, but won't you miss your friends?
something
against the odds idm əˈɡenst ðə ɒdz overcome difficulties which make a good Against the odds Leo, the son of 1
result seem very unlikely immigrants and from a poor
neighbourhood, was accepted by Oxford
University.
take someone on v phr teɪk ˈsʌmwʌn ɒn At the age of 14, my granddad was taken 1
on by a plumbing company and trained as
to start to employ someone a plumber.
half-hearted adj ˌhɑːf ˈhɑːtəd done without much effort and without Congress has made half-hearted attempts 1
much interest in the result at finance reform.
take something in v phr teɪk ˈsʌmθɪŋ ɪn jə to not allow something to annoy, When the boss asked Judy to stay late, 1
your stride straɪd embarrass, or upset you she took it in stride.
competitive adj kəmˈpetətɪv, kəm determined or trying very hard to be Some US industries are not as 1
ˈpetɪtɪv more successful than other people or competitive as they have been in the
businesses past.
CV n ˌsiː ˈviː a short written document that lists your Remember to include your contact details 1
education and previous jobs, which you on your CV.
send to employers when you are looking
for a job
foresee v fɔːˈsiː to think or know that something is going I’ve put your name on the list and I don’t 1
to happen in the future foresee any problems.
speech
networking n ˈnetwɜːkɪŋ the practice of meeting other people I’m hoping to do some networking at the 1
involved in the same kind of work, to conference next week in London.
share information, support each other etc
portfolio n pɔːtˈfəʊliəʊ a large flat case used especially for You’ll need to prepare a portfolio of your 1
carrying pictures, documents etc work.
vouch for v vaʊtʃ fə to say that you believe that someone will Sorry, I can't vouch for Anna because I've 1
behave well and that you will be never met her.
responsible for their behaviour, actions
etc
close-knit adj ˌkləʊs ˈnɪt a close-knit group of people is one in We all get on really well in my family; 1
which everyone knows each other well we're very close-knit.
and gives each other support when they
need it
take something v phr teɪk ˈsʌmθɪŋ to get upset by the things other people Don’t take it personally; she’s rude to 1
personally ˈpɜːsənəli say or do, because you think that their everyone.
remarks or behaviour are directed at you
in particular
make the best of v phr meɪk ðə best əv to accept a situation that is not very We are stuck here, so we might as well 1
something ˈsʌmθɪŋ good, and do whatever you can to make it make the best of it.
better
take no for a v phr teɪk nəʊ fə eɪ ˈɑːnsə accept it when somebody refuses you I've never met someone as stubborn as 1
answer Liam; he won't take no for an answer.
hand in your v phr hænd ɪn jə ˌrezɪɡ Tomorrow I'm going to hand in my 1
resignation ˈneɪʃən resignation, so I can start my new job in
officially say that you want to resign four weeks' time
be taken aback by v phr bi ˈteɪkən əˈbæk baɪ I was really taken aback when Lauren 1
to be very surprised or shocked by and Bill split up; I thought there would
something get married!
take no notice of v phr teɪk nəʊ ˈnəʊtəs əv not pay attention to someone or Take no notice of Geoff -- he's just being 1
something silly.
take pity on v phr teɪk ˈpɪti ɒn feel sorry for someone and treat them When I saw the tiny kitten I took pity on 1
with sympathy it and took it home with me.
take advantage of v phr teɪk ədˈvɑːntɪdʒ əv to treat someone unfairly in order to get I think your boss is taking advantage of 1
what you want, especially someone who you -- you should ask for more money if
is generous or easily persuaded you have to work such long hours.
high salary n phr haɪ ˈsæləri a lot of money that you receive as I think job satisfaction is more important 1
payment from the organization you work than a high salary.
for
Advanced Expert 2
speech
main priority n phr meɪn praɪˈɒrəti the thing that you think is most important My main priority is to find a job that I 1
and that needs attention before anything love.
else
tight deadlines n phr taɪt ˈded laɪnz a date or time by which you have to do or You can expect to have very tight 1
complete something, which is not long deadlines if you work as a journalist.
away
heavy workload n phr ˈhevi ˈwɜːkləʊd a large amount of work that a person or My workload is so heavy, I'm worried I 1
organization has to do won't be able to finish everything.
have an impact v phr v ən ˈɪmpækt have an effect or influence an event, My granddad was a doctor and he really 1
situation etc had an impact on my choice of career.
stand someone in v phr stænd ˈsʌmwʌn ɪn Learning karate has really stood my in 1
good stead ɡʊd sted to be very useful to someone when good stead -- I learnt about hard work,
needed discipline and respect.
snap something up phr v snæp ˈsʌmθɪŋ ʌp to buy something immediately, especially When I saw how cheap the t-shirt was, I 1
because it is very cheap snapped it up.
from all walks of idm frəm ɔːl wɔːks əv Our club is open to people from all walks 1
life laɪf every position in society of life -- rich or poor, young or old.
part and parcel idm pɑːt ənd ˈpɑːsəl Writing essays and taking exams are all 1
to be a necessary feature of something part and parcel of university life.
crop up phr v krɒp ʌp if a problem crops up, it happens or Your name kept cropping up in 1
appears suddenly and in an unexpected conversation.
way
deceptive adj dɪˈseptɪv something that is deceptive seems to be Some snakes move with deceptive speed 1
one thing but is in fact very different (=move faster than you think or expect).
recruitment n ri ˈkruːt mənt to find new people to work in a company, Our recruitment process involves an 1
join an organization, do a job etc application form, an exam and an
interview.
playfulness n ˈpleɪf əlnəs very active, happy, and wanting to have The thing I love about my grandma is her 1
fun playfulness, even though she's 72!
additional adj əˈdɪʃənəl more than what was agreed or expected Additional information can be obtained 1
from the centre.
productive adj prəˈdʌktɪv producing or achieving a lot Most of us are more productive in the 1
morning.
competitor n kəmˈpetətə, kəm a person, team, company etc that is Last year they sold twice as many 1
ˈpetɪtə competing with another computers as their competitors.
doubtless adj ˈdaʊtləs used when saying that something is Doubtless there would be lots of rumours. 1
almost certain to happen or be true
Advanced Expert 3
speech
trendy adj ˈtrendi influenced by the most fashionable styles I didn't recognise Katrina when I saw her 1
and ideas in her new trendy clothes.
cutting edge adj ˈkʌtɪŋ edʒ the newest and most exciting stage in the The technology is this new mobile phone 1
development of something is cutting-edge.
fumble around for phr v ˈfʌmbəl əˈraʊnd fə I was fumbling around for my keys and 1
to try to hold, move, or find something knocked the glass off the table onto the
with your hands in an awkward way floor.
favourable adj ˈfeɪvərəbəl a favourable report, opinion, or reaction Being well dressed always help to create 1
shows that you think that someone or a favourable impression.
something is good or that you agree with
them
feasible adj ˈfiːzəbəl, ˈfiːzɪbəl a plan, idea, or method that is feasible is I'm afraid it's not feasible to offer you a 1
possible and is likely to work pay rise this year.
no-no idm ˈnəʊ nəʊ something that you must not do because Colouring your hair was a no-no at that 1
it is considered to be unacceptable time.
behaviour
butterflies in the idm ˈbʌtəflaɪz ɪn ðə to feel very nervous before doing I always get butterflies in my stomach 1
stomach ˈstʌmək something before I go on stage.
link v lɪŋk if two things are linked, they are related Police think the murders are linked. 1
in some way
slouch v slaʊtʃ to stand, sit, or walk with a slouch Jimmy slouched back in his chair. 1
fidget v ˈfɪdʒət, ˈfɪdʒɪt to keep moving your hands or feet, The kids had started to fidget. 1
especially because you are bored or
nervous
long-winded adj ˌlɒŋ ˈwɪndəd continuing to talk for too long or using too His speeches tend to be rather long- 1
many words in a way that is boring winded.
moderate adj ˈmɒdərət, ˈmɒdərɪt not very large or very small, very hot or Even moderate amounts of alcohol can be 1
very cold, very fast or very slow etc dangerous.
mumble v ˈmʌmbəl to say something too quietly or not clearly He bumped into someone and mumbled 1
enough, so that other people cannot an apology.
understand you
pay off phr v peɪ ɒf to give someone all the money you owe I’ll pay off all my debts first. 1
them
ramble on phr v ˈræmbəl ɒn to talk or write for a long time in a way My father kept rambling on about the 1
that other people find boring war.
safety margin n phr ˈseɪfti ˈmɑːdʒən an additional amount of something such We're not completely sure how much the 1
as time, money, or space that you include building work will cost, so we've saved
in order to make sure that you are extra money as a safety margin.
successful in achieving something
Advanced Expert 4
speech
slouch v slaʊtʃ to stand, sit, or walk with a slouch Jimmy slouched back in his chair. 1
long-winded adj ˌlɒŋ ˈwɪndəd continuing to talk for too long or using too His speeches tend to be rather long- 1
many words in a way that is boring winded.
switch off phr v swɪtʃ ɒf When he started talking about football, I 1
to stop listening to someone just switched off -- I find it so boring.
vary v ˈveəri if several things of the same type vary, Test scores vary from school to school. 1
they are all different from each other
restless adj ˈrestləs unwilling to keep still or stay where you The children had been indoors all day, 1
are, especially because you are nervous and were getting restless.
or bored
crash course n phr kræʃ kɔːs a course in which you learn a lot about a I'm really impatient to learn Spanish; 1
particular subject in a very short period of perhaps I'll go on a crash course.
time
be reliant on v phr bi rɪˈlaɪənt ɒn I want to get a job so that I'm not reliant 1
dependent on someone or something on anyone.
in the vicinity adj phr ɪn ðə vəˈsɪnəti A tall man dressed in black was seen in 1
in the area around a particular place the vicinity of the burglary.
liaise v liˈeɪz to exchange information with someone Council officers are liaising closely with 1
who works in another organization or local groups.
department so that you can both be more
effective
assimilate v əˈsɪməleɪt, ə if people assimilate or are assimilated into It took me a long time to assimilate when 1
ˈsɪmɪleɪt a country or group, they become part of I moved from London to Madrid.
that group and are accepted by the
people in that group
run-down adj ˌrʌn ˈdaʊn a building or area that is run-down is in That neighbourhood is so run-down that 1
very bad condition no one wants to live there.
master v ˈmɑːstə to learn a skill or a language so well that I've been playing the piano since I was 1
you have no difficulty with it six and I've almost mastered it.
stretch v stretʃ to make someone use all of their skill, This job will really stretch you, but I think 1
abilities, or intelligence you'll be able to cope.
affluent adj ˈæfluənt having plenty of money, nice houses, Some of the houses in this affluent 1
expensive things etc neighbourhood cost millions of pounds.
allocate v ˈæləkeɪt to use something for a particular purpose, We will allocate you a budget and three 1
give something to a particular person etc, members of staff to work for you.
especially after an official decision has
been made
initiative n ɪˈnɪʃətɪv the ability to make decisions and take I wish my son would show more initiative. 1
action without waiting for someone to tell
Advanced Expert 5
you what to do
speech
grasp of n ɡrɑːsp əv She has only a limited grasp of Chinese, 1
your ability to understand a complicated so she won't understand much when she
idea, situation, or subject gets to Beijing.
challenging adj ˈtʃæləndʒɪŋ, difficult in an interesting or enjoyable way Teaching young children is a challenging 1
ˈtʃælɪndʒɪŋ and rewarding job.
mutual respect n phr ˈmjuːtʃuəl rɪˈspekt respect that two or more people have for I really like my boss and she treats me 1
each other kindly; we have mutual respect.
get over (an idea) phr v ɡet ˈəʊvə (ən aɪ to succeed in communicating ideas or I was so angry I found it difficult to get 1
ˈdɪə) information to other people over my point.
disadvantaged adj ˌdɪsədˈvɑːntɪdʒd having social problems, such as a lack of He may have been disadvantaged when 1
money or education, which make it he was young, but he's highly successful
difficult for you to succeed now.
pilot project n phr ˈpaɪlət ˈprɒdʒekt a small project which is carried out as a In the pilot project, neighbours will grow 1
test to see if an idea, product, etc will be fruit and vegetables together in the
successful communal garden areas.
apprehensive adj ˌæprɪˈhensɪv worried or nervous about something that We’d been a little apprehensive about 1
you are going to do, or about the future their visit.
directionless adj dəˈrekʃənləs, dɪ lacking a clear direction or aim I felt directionless and lost. 1
ˈrekʃənləs, daɪ-
disillusioned adj ˌdɪsəˈluːʒənd, ˌdɪsɪ disappointed because you have lost your As she grew older, Laura became 1
ˈluːʒənd belief that someone is good, or that an increasingly disillusioned with politics.
idea is right
distracted adj dɪˈstræktəd, dɪ anxious and unable to think clearly He tried to concentrate on his work, but 1
ˈstræktɪd was distracted by the long blonde hair of
the girl sitting in front of him.
engaged adj ɪnˈɡeɪdʒd I didn't feel like the interviewers were 1
paying attention and interested engaged with what I was saying.
inspired adj ɪnˈspaɪəd having very exciting special qualities that an inspired leader 1
are better than anyone or anything else
intimidated adj ɪnˈtɪmədeɪtəd, ɪn feeling worried and lacking confidence I was shy, and felt intimidated by the 1
ˈtɪmɪdeɪtəd because of the situation you are in or the older students.
people you are with
motivated adj ˈməʊtəveɪtəd, very keen to do something or achieve The students are all highly motivated. 1
ˈməʊtɪveɪtəd something, especially because you find it
interesting or exciting
muddled adj ˈmʌdld confused When they asked me about my exam 1
grades, I got muddled up and gave them
incorrect information.
Advanced Expert 6
speech
overwhelmed adj ˌəʊv ə ˈwelmd if work or a problem overwhelms I've got so much homework to do that I 1
someone, it is too much or too difficult to feel really overwhelmed.
deal with
passive adj ˈpæsɪv someone who is passive tends to accept Kathy seems to take a very passive role 1
things that happen to them or things that in the relationship.
people say to them, without taking any
action
pressurised adj ˈpreʃəraɪzd feeling worried, or making you feel My parents never pressurised me to go to 1
worried, because of the number of things university; they let me do what I want.
you have to do
relieved adj rɪˈliːvd feeling happy because you are no longer She looked immensely relieved when she 1
worried about something heard the news.
self-conscious adj ˌself ˈkɒntʃ əs worried and embarrassed about what you Jerry’s pretty self-conscious about his 1
look like or what other people think of you weight.
well-supported adj wel səˈpɔːɪd to have enough money, emotional I have always been well-supported by my 1
support, etc for what you need family -- both emotionally and financially.
demoralising adj reducing or destroying someone's courage It was really demoralising when my six- 1
dɪˈmɒrəlaɪzɪŋ or confidence year-old cousin beat me at chess.
video clip n phr ˈvɪdiəʊ klɪp a short part of a film or television Have you seen this video clip of a cat 1
programme that is shown by itself, riding a bicycle?
especially as an advertisement
communal adj ˈkɒmjənəl, shared by a group of people or animals, In our student accommodation, we have 1
ˈkɒmjʊnəl, kə especially a group who live together communal bathrooms and a communal
ˈmjuːnl kitchen.
virtuoso n ˌvɜːtʃuˈəʊsəʊ someone who is a very skilful performer, I can't believe you can play the violin so 1
especially in music brilliantly -- you're a really virtuoso!
not have a leg to idm nɒt v eɪ leɡ tə to be in a situation where you cannot If you didn’t sign a contract, you won’t 2
stand on stænd ɒn prove or legally support what you say have a leg to stand on.
drop out phr v drɒp aʊt to no longer do an activity or belong to a The group gets smaller as members move 2
group away or drop out.
hostile adj ˈhɒstaɪl angry and deliberately unfriendly towards Southampton fans gave their former 2
someone, and ready to argue with them coach a hostile reception.
cram v kræm Zara crammed for six hours the night 2
to prepare yourself for an examination by before the exam, but still couldn't
learning a lot of information quickly remember anything.
figure out phr v ˈfɪɡə aʊt to think about a problem or situation until I can't figure out how to use this app -- 2
you find the answer or understand what can you help me?
has happened
Advanced Expert 7
speech
desperate adj ˈdespərət, ˈdespərɪt willing to do anything to change a very I had no money left and was desperate. 2
bad situation, and not caring about
danger
turn someone phr v tɜːn ˈsʌmwʌn raʊnd if a person turns around, he/she changes The love of his new adoptive parents 2
round and starts to develop in a positive way really turned his life around.
expel v ɪkˈspel to officially force someone to leave a Two girls were expelled from school for 2
school or organization taking drugs.
mutual adj ˈmjuːtʃuəl mutual feelings such as respect, trust, or Mutual respect is necessary for any 2
hatred are feelings that two or more partnership to work.
people have for each other
nurture v ˈnɜːtʃə to help a plan, idea, feeling etc to develop European union is an ideal that has been 2
nurtured since the post-war years.
pull yourself idm pʊl jɔːˈself təˈɡeðə to force yourself to stop behaving in a With an effort Mary pulled herself 2
together nervous, frightened, or uncontrolled way together.
shame n ʃeɪm the feeling you have when you feel guilty When Toby made fun of my new haircut I 2
and embarrassed because you, or went red with shame.
someone who is close to you, have done
something wrong
rage n reɪdʒ When I told him I had crashed his car, he 2
a strong feeling of uncontrollable anger flew into a rage.
rough and ready idm rʌf ənd ˈredi not perfect, but good enough for a The tests are only a rough and ready 2
particular purpose guide to a pupil’s future development.
scheme n skiːm an official plan that is intended to help The money will be used for teacher 2
people in some way, for example by training schemes.
providing education or training
shift v ʃɪft to move from one place or position to Joe listened, shifting uncomfortably from 2
another, or make something do this one foot to another.
skive off phr v skaɪv ɒf to avoid work or school by staying away Rachel got a detention for skiving off 2
or leaving without permission maths.
substantial adj səbˈstænʃəl large in amount or number We have the support of a substantial 2
number of parents.
trigger v ˈtrɪɡə to make something happen very quickly, The assassination triggered off a wave of 2
especially a series of events rioting.
instinctive adj ɪnˈstɪŋktɪv based on instinct and not involving Her musical skill is completely instinctive. 2
thought
aggressive adj əˈɡresɪv behaving in an angry threatening way, as Jim’s voice became aggressive. 2
if you want to fight or attack someone
hostile adj ˈhɒstaɪl angry and deliberately unfriendly towards Southampton fans gave their former 2
someone, and ready to argue with them coach a hostile reception.
Advanced Expert 8
speech
scornful adj ˈskɔːnfəl feeling or showing scorn Patrick was scornful of his younger 2
brother's attempts to ride a bike.
distressed adj dɪˈstrest very upset Hannah was deeply distressed by the 2
news.
indifferent adj ɪnˈdɪfərənt not at all interested in someone or Sarah was absolutely indifferent to him, 2
something and it hurt.
disaffected adj ˌdɪsəˈfektəd, ˌdɪsə not satisfied with your government, With huge student loans to pay and few 2
ˈfektɪd leader etc, and therefore no longer loyal jobs, many young people feel disaffected.
to them or no longer believing they can
help you
resistant adj rɪˈzɪstənt not damaged or affected by something an infection that’s resistant to antibiotics 2
see eye to eye idm siː aɪ tə aɪ if two people see eye to eye, they agree We didn’t exactly see eye to eye. 2
with each other
do as you are told v phr duː əz jə ə təʊld behave in the way someone has asked Why can't you children just do as you are 2
you to told?
get your own way idm ɡet jə əʊn weɪ achieve the result you want Bella is dad's favourite and he always lets 2
her get her own way.
keep yourself to idm kiːp jɔːˈself tə jɔː to live a very quiet private life and not do I don't like to get involved in office 2
yourself ˈself many things that involve other people politics; I prefer to keep myself to myself.
rub people up the idm rʌb ˈpiːpəl ʌp ðə rɒŋ Robbie always rubs people up the wrong 2
wrong way weɪ to annoy someone by the things you say way -- it's no wonder he has so few
or do, usually without intending to friends.
on a whim adj phr ɒn eɪ wɪm a sudden feeling that you would like to do I bought these shoes on a whim, and now 2
or have something, especially when there I've decided I don't like them.
is no important or good reason
look up to phr v lʊk ʌp tə admire and respect I've always looked up to my cousin 2
because she's so cool and funny.
become close to v phr bɪˈkʌm kləʊz tə develop a strong relationship with I became very close to my aunt after my 2
someone ˈsʌmwʌn someone uncle died.
come across as phr v kʌm əˈkrɒs əz appear to have a particular quality, when Mr Potts can come across as rude, but 2
this may or may not be true really he's a very kind man.
good fun n phr ɡʊd fʌn enjoyable to be with because they are Leah is funny and popular -- she's really 2
happy and amusing good fun.
dry sense of n phr draɪ sens əv someone with a dry sense of humour says You've got such a dry sense of humour; 2
humour ˈhjuːmə funny and clever things while seeming to sometimes I can't tell if you're joking.
be serious
take after someone phr v teɪk ˈɑːftə ˈsʌmwʌn I take after my mum -- we both worry a 2
to look or behave like an older relative lot.
Advanced Expert 9
speech
have your heart set idm v jə hɑːt set ɒn to want very much to have or achieve I've got my heart set on getting a new 2
on something, or to be determined to do car once I get a job.
something
run in the family idm rʌn ɪn ðə ˈfæməli if something such as a quality, disease, or Diabetes appears to run in families. 2
skill runs in the family, many people in
that family have it
high expectations n haɪ ˌekspekˈteɪʃənz Paula felt under a lot of pressure to go to 2
a feeling or belief that something or university -- everyone in the family had
someone should be a success high expectations of her.
alternately adv ɔːl ˈtɜːn ətli two things happening one after the other It's alternately sunny and rainy outside -- 2
in a regular pattern I don't know what to wear!
rough and ready adj rʌf ənd ˈredi not perfect, but good enough for a The tests are only a rough and ready 2
particular purpose guide to a pupil’s future development.
on the brink of phr ɒn ðə brɪŋk əv I was on the brink of asking Penny to go 2
a situation when you are almost in a new for a coffee when her phone rang and she
situation walked away.
indulgence n ɪnˈdʌldʒəns the habit of allowing yourself to do or An occasional glass of wine was his only 2
have whatever you want, or allowing indulgence.
someone else to do or have whatever
they want
stability n stəˈbɪləti, stəˈbɪlɪti the condition of being steady and not Stability within the family is very 2
changing important for childhood development.
inwardly adv ˈɪn wədli felt or experienced in your own mind but I managed to smile, but inwardly I was 2
not expressed to other people furious.
associate v əˈsəʊʃieɪt, əˈsəʊsi- to make a connection in your mind I don’t associate him with energetic 2
between one thing or person and another sports.
consistent adj kənˈsɪstənt always behaving in the same way or She’s the team’s most consistent player. 2
having the same attitudes, standards etc
– usually used to show approval
misbehave v ˌmɪsbɪˈheɪv to behave badly, and cause trouble or George has been misbehaving at school. 2
annoy people
substantial v səbˈstænʃəl large in amount or number We have the support of a substantial 2
number of parents.
chaotic adj keɪˈɒtɪk a chaotic situation is one in which a chaotic mixture of images 2
everything is happening in a confused
way
spiral n ˈspaɪərəl a process, usually a harmful one, in which Unemployment rose and the city went 2
something gradually but continuously gets into a spiral of decline.
worse or better
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speech
bond n bɒnd something that unites two or more people I have a really strong bond with my pet 2
or groups, such as love, or a shared dog.
interest or idea
underachieving adj not doing as well at school or at work as Any underachieving police officers will 2
ˌʌndərəˈtʃiːvɪŋ they could do if they worked harder have to take further training.
lump together idm lʌmp təˈɡeðə to put two or more different people or You can't just lump us all together -- 2
things together and consider them as a we're individuals with different needs.
single group, sometimes wrongly
group dynamic n ɡruːp daɪˈnæmɪk the way in which people in a group There is a very tense group dynamic in 2
behave, react, and affect each other this classroom.
misbehave v ˌmɪsbɪˈheɪv to behave badly, and cause trouble or George has been misbehaving at school. 2
annoy people
despise v dɪˈspaɪz to dislike and have a low opinion of She despised her neighbours. 2
someone or something
lurk v lɜːk to wait somewhere quietly and secretly, She didn’t see the figure lurking behind 2
usually because you are going to do the bushes.
something wrong
aspect n ˈæspekt one part of a situation, idea, plan etc that Dealing with people is the most important 2
has many parts aspect of my work.
awkward adj ˈɔːkwəd making you feel embarrassed so that you I hoped he would stop asking awkward 2
are not sure what to do or say questions.
catch unawares v phr kætʃ ˌʌnəˈweəz if something catches you unawares, it Tom caught me totally unawares when he 2
happens when you are not expecting it asked me out on a date.
and are not prepared
cotton on phr v ˈkɒtn ɒn to begin to understand something It took me a while to cotton on. 2
turn down phr v tɜːn daʊn refuse Thank you, I never turn down the offer of 2
a cup of tea.
obsessive adj əbˈsesɪv thinking or worrying about something all Please stop being so obsessive about your 2
the time, so that you do not think about food -- just eat it!
other things enough – used to show
disapproval
implication n ˌɪmpləˈkeɪʃən, a possible future effect or result of an What are the implications of these 2
ˌɪmplɪˈkeɪʃən action, event, decision etc proposals?
wear off phr v weə ɒf if pain or the effect of something wears The effects of the anaesthetic were 2
off, it gradually stops starting to wear off.
turn out (to be) phr v tɜːn aʊt (tə bi) to happen in a particular way, or to have I can't believe it -- it turns out Sophia 2
a particular result, especially one that you knew about the surprise party all along!
did not expect
put one's foot idm pʊt wʌnz fʊt daʊn to say very firmly that someone must do I must put my foot down -- the dog is not 2
down something or must stop doing something sleeping in my bed.
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speech
dawn on phr v dɔːn ɒn It dawned on me that I have a better 2
if a fact dawns on you, you realize it for relationship with my grandparents than
the first time with my parents.
simplistic adj sɪmˈplɪstɪk treating difficult subjects in a way that is This is a very simplistic approach to the 2
too simple problem.
tendency n ˈtendənsi if someone or something has a tendency Greg’s tendency to be critical made him 2
to do or become a particular thing, they unpopular with his co-workers.
are likely to do or become it
subtlety n ˈsʌtlti the quality that something has when it The play lacks subtlety. 2
has been done in a clever or skilful way,
with careful attention to small details
impact n ˈɪmpækt the effect or influence that an event, We need to assess the impact on climate 2
situation etc has on someone or change.
something
be glued to v bi ɡluːd tə to look at something with all your During the Olympics, I was glued to the 2
attention television.
split up with phr v splɪt ʌp wɪð if people split up, they end a marriage or Danny and Kate had a massive argument 2
relationship with each other and split up.
can't help oneself idm kɑːnt help wʌnˈself used to say that someone is unable to When I see chocolate, I can't help myself 2
change their behaviour or feelings, or to and just have to eat it.
prevent themselves from doing something
take in one's stride idm teɪk ɪn wʌnz straɪd to not allow something to annoy, Lilian took the criticism in her stride and 2
embarrass, or upset you: said she would try harder next time.
go over old ground idm ɡəʊ ˈəʊvə əʊld We've had this same argument a 2
ɡraʊnd thousand times -- do we really have to go
talk about the same things over the same old ground?
liable adj ˈlaɪəbəl likely to do or say something or to behave The car is liable to overheat on long trips. 2
in a particular way, especially because of
a fault or natural tendency
sneak v sniːk to quickly and secretly steal something I managed to sneak another slice of cake 2
unimportant or of little value when no one was looking.
flatter v ˈflætə to praise someone in order to please Perry would always flatter Mrs. Mitchell 2
them or get something from them, even by praising her cooking.
though you do not mean it
astounded adj əˈstaʊndəd, ə very surprised or shocked She was astounded by his arrogance. 2
ˈstaʊndɪd
accountable adj əˈkaʊntəbəl responsible for the effects of your actions The government should be accountable to 2
and willing to explain or be criticized for all the people of the country.
them
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speech
be woven into v bi ˈwəʊvən ˈɪntə past participle of weave; to put many Summers at the beach are woven into my 2
different ideas, subjects, stories etc childhood memories.
together and connect them smoothly
a fair bit of phr eɪ feə bɪt əv a reasonable amount My brother plays a fair bit of sport but I 2
prefer listening to music.
constructive adj kənˈstrʌktɪv useful and helpful, or likely to produce The meeting was very constructive. 2
good results
impose limitations v phr ɪmˈpəʊz ˌlɪmɪ force to accept rules You're 18 now so I can't impose 2
ˈteɪʃənz limitations on you anymore.
peer n pɪə your peers are the people who are the American children did less well in maths 2
same age as you, or who have the same than their peers in Japan.
type of job, social class etc
so much the better idm səʊ mʌtʃ ðə ˈbetə used to say that something would be even If they can do them both at the same 2
better or bring even more advantages time, then so much the better.
radical adj ˈrædɪkəl a radical change or difference is very big They are proposing radical changes to the 2
and important way the company is run.
rave notice n phr reɪv ˈnəʊtəs The local ballet company received rave 2
strong praise for a new play, book etc notices for its production of Swan Lake.
reluctant adj rɪˈlʌktənt slow and unwilling She gave a reluctant smile. 2
intend v ɪnˈtend to have something in your mind as a plan I intend to spend the night there. 2
or purpose
rigorous adj ˈrɪɡərəs careful, thorough, and exact a rigorous analysis of defence needs 2
soft option n phr sɒft ˈɒpʃən easy choice Leaving school at 16 isn't necessarily the 2
soft option, because you'll have to find a
job.
fire with v phr faɪə wɪð After I read Dan Brown's book, I was 2
made to feel interested in something and fired with determination to write a best-
excited about it seller.
come to terms with idm kɒm tə tɜːmz wɪð to accept an unpleasant or sad situation I still haven't come to terms with my best 2
and no longer feel upset or angry about it friend going out with my ex-boyfriend.
demanding adj dɪˈmɑːndɪŋ needing a lot of ability, effort, or skill The course was so demanding that I 2
almost gave up.
transferable adj træntsˈfɜːrəbəl the quality of being able to move from I may only have a Saturday job in a café, 2
one place, school, job etc to another but I'm learning transferable skills.
brief n briːf official instructions that explain what The architect’s brief is to design an 3
someone’s job is, what their duties are extension that is modern but blends with
etc the rest of the building.
chunk n tʃʌŋk a large thick piece of something that does I break my revision down into small 3
not have an even shape chunks; it helps me remember things.
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speech
marble n ˈmɑːbəl a type of hard rock that becomes smooth The columns were of white marble. 3
when it is polished, and is used for
making buildings, statues etc
protagonist n prəʊˈtæɡənəst, the most important character in a play, The protagonist of the story is an escaped 3
prəʊˈtæɡənɪst film, or story prisoner.
squeaky adj ˈskwiːki making very high noises that are not loud The brakes on your bike are very squeaky 3
-- can't you oil them?
subliminal adj sʌbˈlɪmənəl, sʌb affecting your mind in a way that you are When I listen to my favourite band, I 3
ˈlɪmɪnəl not conscious of sometimes think they are sending me
subliminal messages through their music.
surface n ˈsɜːfəs, ˈsɜːfɪs the top layer of an area of water or land Dead leaves floated on the surface of the 3
water.
swagger v to walk proudly, swinging your shoulders He swaggered over towards me. 3
in a way that shows you are very
ˈswæɡə confident - used to show disapproval
clumsy adj ˈklʌmzi moving or doing things in a careless way, A clumsy waiter spilled wine all over her 3
especially so that you drop things, knock new skirt.
into things etc
slap v slæp to hit someone with the flat part of your Sarah slapped Aaron across the face. 3
hand
flap v flæp if a bird flaps its wings, it moves them up The flags were flapping in the breeze. 3
and down in order to fly
swishing v ˈswɪʃ ɪŋ to move or make something move quickly She looked really beautiful as she came 3
through the air with a quiet sound swishing down the stairs in her ballgown.
tarmac n ˈtɑːmæk a mixture of tar and very small stones, Journalists waited on the tarmac to 3
used for making the surface of roads question him.
tiptoe v ˈtɪptəʊ to walk quietly and carefully on your toes, His mother tiptoed into the room. 3
so that nobody hears you
chunk n tʃʌŋk a large thick piece of something that does ice chunks 3
not have an even shape
continuity n ˌkɒntəˈnjuːəti, the state of continuing for a period of We should ensure continuity of care 3
ˌkɒntɪˈnjuːəti time, without problems, interruptions, or between hospital and home.
changes
tinny adj ˈtɪni a tinny sound is high, weak, and tinny music 3
unpleasant, and sounds like it is coming
out of something made of metal
culminate v ˈkʌlməneɪt, if a process culminates in or with a A series of events for teachers and 3
ˈkʌlmɪneɪt particular event, it ends with that event students will culminate in a Shakespeare
festival next year.
gravel n ˈɡrævəl small stones, used to make a surface for a gravel path 3
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paths, roads etc
speech
enhance v ɪnˈhɑːns to improve something Good lighting will enhance any room. 3
flap v flæp if a bird flaps its wings, it moves them up The flags were flapping in the breeze. 3
and down in order to fly
prevalent adj ˈprevələnt common at a particular time, in a Solvent abuse is especially prevalent 3
particular place, or among a particular among younger teenagers.
group of people
rectify v ˈrektəfaɪ, ˈrektɪfaɪ to correct something that is wrong I did my best to rectify the situation, but 3
the damage was already done.
insert v ɪnˈsɜːt to put something inside or into something His hand shook slightly as he inserted the 3
else key into the lock.
resemble v rɪˈzembəl to look like or be similar to someone or It’s amazing how closely Brian and Steve 3
something resemble each other.
guarantee v ˌɡærənˈtiː to promise to do something or to promise I guarantee you’ll love this film. 3
that something will happen
convey v kənˈveɪ to communicate or express something, All this information can be conveyed in a 3
with or without using words simple diagram.
cover up phr v ˈkʌvə ʌp an attempt to prevent the public from The doctor tried to cover up his mistake, 3
discovering the truth about something but he was found out eventually.
move on phr v muːv ɒn to change, progress, improve, or become The mobile phone has moved on 3
more modern as time passes enormously since the 1990s.
root around in phr v ruːt əˈraʊnd ɪn to search for something by moving things You have a look in the cupboard while I 3
around root around in this drawer.
set up phr v set ʌp establish The play was set up as a love story right 3
from the very first scene.
pick out phr v pɪk aʊt choose one from many Can you pick out your favourite dress? 3
pull up phr v pʊl ʌp to stop the vehicle that you are driving He pulled up in front of the gates. 3
scrape v skreɪp to remove something from a surface Scrape the carrots and slice them thinly. 3
using the edge of a knife, a stick etc
rustle v ˈrʌsəl if leaves, papers, clothes etc rustle, or if She moved nearer, her long silk skirt 3
you rustle them, they make a noise as rustling around her.
they rub against each other
crunch v krʌntʃ to make a sound like something being Their boots crunched loudly on the frozen 3
crushed snow.
slam v slæm if a door, gate etc slams, or if someone We heard a car door slam. 3
slams it, it shuts with a loud noise
scrape through phr v skreɪp θruː to only just succeed in passing an Even though she had missed lots of 3
examination or dealing with a difficult classes, Helena managed to scrape
situation through the exam and got an 'E'.
rustle up phr v ˈrʌsəl ʌp to make a meal quickly If you're hungry, I can quickly rustle up a 3
Advanced Expert 15
sandwich.
speech
when it comes to idm wen ɪt kʌmz tə ðə when you reach an important time, When it came to the crunch, Francis 3
the crunch krʌntʃ especially one when a difficult decision admitted he had never loved Sarah.
has to be made
get into a flap idm ɡet ˈɪntə eɪ flæp become very excited or worried about We're only going to be two minutes late 3
something so don't get into a flap.
ram opinions down idm ræm əˈpɪnjənz daʊn to try to make someone accept an idea or I'll never agree with you so there's no 3
one's throat wʌnz θrəʊt opinion by repeating it many times, point ramming your opinions down my
especially when they are not interested throat.
rooted to the spot idm ˈruːt ɪd tə ðə spɒt The first time I saw Janet I was rooted to 3
so shocked, surprised, or frightened that the spot; I knew I was going to marry
you cannot move her.
limitless adj ˈlɪmətləs, ˈlɪmɪtləs without a limit or end limitless possibilities 3
in terms of phr ɪn tɜːmz əv f you explain or describe something in In terms of music, I like pop best. 3
terms of a particular fact or event, you
are explaining or describing it only in
relation to that fact or event
come up with phr v kʌm ʌp wɪð My dad came up with a great idea for a 3
to think of an idea, answer etc holiday.
dominate n ˈdɒməneɪt, to control someone or something or to The industry is dominated by five 3
ˈdɒmɪneɪt have more importance than other people multinational companies.
or things
curl up phr v kɜːl ʌp to move so that you are lying or sitting I just wanted to curl up and go to sleep. 3
with your arms and legs bent close to
your body
put off from phr v pʊt ɒf frəm to make you dislike something or not My friend had a bad skiing accident, 3
want to do something which put me off from doing the sport.
innovative adj ˈɪnəvətɪv an innovative idea or way of doing an innovative approach to language 3
something is new, different, and better teaching
than those that existed before
intimidating adj ɪˈtɪmədeɪtɪŋ, ɪ making you feel worried and not confident Some people find interview situations 3
ˈtɪmɪdeɪtɪŋ very intimidating.
fussy adj ˈfʌsi fussy clothes, objects, buildings etc are I prefer plain designs to something fussy. 3
very detailed and decorated - used to
show disapproval
get a buzz idm ɡet eɪ bʌz have a strong feeling of excitement, I really got a buzz from seeing my first 3
pleasure, or success, or a similar feeling book in print.
from drinking alcohol or taking drug
get off to a good phr v ɡet ɒf tə eɪ ɡʊd I didn't get off to a good start when I left 3
start stɑːt begin well my mobile phone on the bus.
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in common phr ɪn ˈkɒmən have the same interests, attitudes etc as My grandma and me have so much in 3
someone else common, she's my favourite relative!
speech
initially adv ɪˈnɪʃəli at the beginning Stan initially wanted to go to medical 3
school.
in the same boat idm ɪn ðə seɪm bəʊt to be in the same unpleasant situation as All first-years at university are in the 3
someone else same boat -- no one knows anyone.
curl up phr v kɜːl ʌp to move so that you are lying or sitting I just wanted to curl up and go to sleep. 3
with your arms and legs bent close to
your body
issue n ˈɪʃuː, ˈɪsjuː a subject or problem that is often Abortion is a highly controversial issue. 3
discussed or argued about, especially a
social or political matter that affects the
interests of a lot of people
underestimate v ˌʌndərˈestəmeɪt, to think or guess that something is We underestimated how long it would 3
ˌʌndərˈestɪmeɪt smaller, cheaper, easier etc than it really take to get there.
is
introverted adj ˈɪntrəvɜːtəd, someone who is introverted is quiet and My sister is introverted, but I love going 3
ˈɪntrəvɜːtɪd shy and does not enjoy being with other out and meeting new people.
people
crucial factor n phr ˈkruːʃəl ˈfæktə the extremely important part that When making a film, the crucial factor is 3
everything else depends on the storyline.
cultivate v ˈkʌltəveɪt, ˈkʌltɪveɪt to make an effort to develop a friendly If you cultivate good relationships at 3
relationship with someone, especially work, it can help you in the future.
someone who can help you
accommodating adj əˈkɒmədeɪtɪŋ helpful and willing to do what someone an accommodating child 3
else wants
eccentric adj ɪkˈsentrɪk behaving in a way that is unusual and His eccentric behaviour lost him his job. 3
different from most people
caption v ˈkæpʃən words printed above or below a picture in a photograph of the couple captioned 3
a book or newspaper or on a television ‘rebuilding their romance’
screen to explain what the picture is
showing
drive to distraction idm draɪv tə dɪˈstrækʃən I used to dance non-stop when I was a 3
to continue annoying or upsetting teenager; it drove my parents to
someone very much distraction.
clutter n ˈklʌtə a large number of things that are the clutter of soaps, shampoos, and 3
scattered somewhere in an untidy way towels in the bathroom
cuddle up phr v ˈkʌdl ʌp to lie or sit very close to someone or The children cuddled up to each other for 3
something warmth.
exasperate v ɪɡˈzɑːspəreɪt to make someone very annoyed by It exasperates me to hear comments like 3
Advanced Expert 17
continuing to do something that upsets that.
them
Advanced Expert 18
speech
hoard v hɔːd to collect and save large amounts of food, families who hoarded food during the 3
money etc, especially when it is not strike
necessary to do so
inventory n ˈɪnvəntri a list of all the things in a place We made an inventory of everything in 3
the apartment.
weird adj wɪəd very strange and unusual, and difficult to A really weird thing happened last night. 3
understand or explain
giggle v ˈɡɪɡəl to laugh quickly, quietly, and in a high If you can’t stop giggling you’ll have to 3
voice, because something is funny or leave the room.
because you are nervous or embarrassed
be done for idm bi dʌn fə to be in serious trouble or likely to fail If we get caught, we’re done for. 3
awkward adj ˈɔːkwəd making you feel embarrassed so that you I hoped he would stop asking awkward 3
are not sure what to do or say questions.
loft n lɒft a room or space under the roof of a Our neighbours have just done a loft 3
building, usually used for storing things in conversion (=changed the loft into
bedrooms).
merchandise n ˈmɜːtʃəndaɪz, -daɪs goods that are being sold A range of official Disney merchandise 3
was on sale.
string of passions n strɪŋ əv ˈpæʃənz a very strong liking for one thing after When I was a teenager my string of 3
phrase another passions included pop music, bright
make-up, tight jeans and horse-riding.
cost a fortune idm kɒst eɪ ˈfɔːtʃən I'm not going to buy those shoes because 3
cost a very large amount of money they cost a fortune.
bizarre adj bəˈzɑː, bɪˈzɑː very unusual or strange a bizarre coincidence 3
craze n kreɪz a fashion, game, type of music etc that She started a craze for this type of 3
becomes very popular for a short time jewellery.
fulfilling adj fʊlˈfɪlɪŋ making you feel happy and satisfied Nursing is still one of the most fulfilling 3
because you are doing interesting, useful, careers.
or important things
uplifting adj ʌpˈlɪftɪŋ making you feel happier and more hopeful an uplifting experience 3
have someone in idm v ˈsʌmwʌn ɪn fɪts Alice always has a funny story to tell -- 3
fits make someone laugh in a way that they she has me in fits every time I talk to
cannot control her.
inspire v ɪnˈspaɪə to encourage someone by making them We need someone who can inspire the 3
feel confident and eager to do something team.
moving adj ˈmuːvɪŋ making you feel strong emotions, Bayman’s book about his illness is deeply 3
especially sadness or sympathy moving.
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speech
see someone live adj siː ˈsʌmwʌn lɪv see a performance in which the I really want to see Lady Gaga live. 3
entertainer performs for people who are
watching, rather than a film, record etc
be blown away by idm bi bləʊn əˈweɪ baɪ to feel very surprised and excited by I wasn't completely blown away by their 3
something performance, to be honest with you.
pack a lot into phr v pæk eɪ lɒt ˈɪntə o do a lot in a limited period of time, or fit They really packed a lot into the show; it 3
a lot of information, ideas etc into a was full of tricks and special effects.
limited space
on stage phr ɒn steɪdʒ performing on the raised area in a theatre Being on stage for three hours every 3
which actors or singers stand on night must be exhausting.
put on a show phr v pʊt ɒn eɪ ʃəʊ to arrange for a concert, play etc to take The college is planning to put on a show 3
place, or to perform in it at the end of the year.
front row n phr frʌnt rəʊ the first line of seats in a theatre or We're so excited because we've got 3
cinema tickets in the front row for the gig.
take part in v phr teɪk pɑːt ɪn to be involved in an activity, sport, event Do you want to take part in the show at 3
etc with other people the end of the year?
take off phr v teɪk ɒf Interest in dance classes has really taken 3
to suddenly start being successful off at our school.
soak up phr v səʊk ʌp o enjoy a place by watching it or If you ever go to Pompeii, take some time 3
becoming involved in it to just soak up the atmosphere.
belt out phr v belt aʊt to sing a song or play an instrument Do you think it gives her a sore throat, 3
loudly belting out those songs every night?
take out of yourself idm teɪk aʊt əv jɔːˈself to make someone forget their problems Whenever I hear this song, it takes me 3
and feel more confident out of myself and I forget all my worries.
chill out phr v tʃɪl aʊt to relax completely instead of feeling Chill out -- there's no point getting so 3
angry, tired, or nervous stressed.
bear a resemblance idm beə eɪ rɪˈzembləns This shopping bears no resemblance to 4
to tə look like what I asked you to buy.
loosen up phr v ˈluːsən ʌp to stop worrying and become more She loosened up after she’d had a drink. 4
relaxed, or to make someone do this
take great strides idm teɪk ɡreɪt straɪdz tə make an improvement in a situation or in Little Jonny has taken great strides 4
towards ˈwɔːdz the development of something towards writing and can now read his
name.
initiate v ɪˈnɪʃieɪt to arrange for something important to They have decided to initiate legal 4
start, such as an official process or a new proceedings against the newspaper.
plan
invaluable adj ɪnˈvæljuəbəl, -jəbəl extremely useful Your advice has been invaluable to us. 4
preliminary adj prɪˈlɪmənəri, prɪ happening before something that is more the preliminary stages of the competition 4
ˈlɪmɪnəri important, often in order to prepare for it
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emanate from v ˈeməneɪt frəm An odd smell seems to be emanating 4
to come from or out of something from the kitchen.
communal adj ˈkɒmjənəl, shared by a group of people or animals, a communal bathroom 4
ˈkɒmjʊnəl, kə especially a group who live together
ˈmjuːnl
nuisance n ˈnjuːsəns a person, thing, or situation that annoys The dogs next door are a real nuisance. 4
you or causes problems
setting n ˈsetɪŋ the place where something is or where an old farmhouse in a beautiful setting 4
something happens, and the general
environment
distinctive adj dɪˈstɪŋktɪv having a special quality, character, or a rock band with a distinctive sound 4
appearance that is different and easy to
recognize
allot v əˈlɒt to use a particular amount of time for Try and allot two or three hours a day to 4
something, or give a particular share of revision.
money, space etc to someone or
something
relegate v ˈreləɡeɪt, ˈrelɪɡeɪt to give someone or something a less Women tended to be relegated to typing 4
important position than before and filing jobs.
ritual n ˈrɪtʃuəl Every Sunday morning my ritual includes 4
something that you do regularly and in buying a newspaper from the local shop,
the same way each time making coffee and eating a croissant.
slump v slʌmp to fall or lean against something because She slumped against the wall. 4
you are not strong enough to stand
wander off phr v ˈwɒndə ɒf to walk away from where you are Please keep hold of your little sister's 4
supposed to stay hand so that she doesn't wander off.
variation n ˌveəriˈeɪʃən a difference between similar things, or a White bread is really just a variation of 4
change from the usual amount or form of French bread.
something
stifle v ˈstaɪfəl to stop a feeling from being expressed When he fell over, I had to stifle a laugh. 4
twist n twɪst an unexpected feature or change in a The robbery took a deadly new twist as 4
situation or series of events the robber pulled out a gun.
hectic adj ˈhektɪk very busy or full of activity I’ve had a pretty hectic day. 4
confront v kənˈfrʌnt if a problem, difficulty etc confronts you, The problems confronting the new 4
it appears and needs to be dealt with government were enormous.
conversely adv We could go to the beach if it's sunny. 4
kənˈvɜːsli, used when one situation is the opposite of Conversely, we could go to the outdoor
ˈkɒnvɜːsli another pool.
slumber n ˈslʌmbə to sleep The baby closed its eyes and drifted off 4
into a deep slumber.
nod off phr v nɒd ɒf to begin to sleep, usually when you do I missed the movie because I kept 4
not intend to and are sitting somewhere nodding off.
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speech
twist n twɪst an unexpected feature or change in a The robbery took a deadly new twist as 4
situation or series of events the robber pulled out a gun.
sidelines pl n Jenny had been waiting on the sidelines 4
not taking part in an activity even though for a chance to show she was good
ˈsaɪdlaɪnz you want to or should do enough to be part of the team.
wakefulness n ˈweɪk fəlnəs not sleeping or unable to sleep The alarm clock rang, launching Brian 4
rudely into a state of wakefulness.
recline v rɪˈklaɪn to lie or lean back in a relaxed way I spent Sunday reclining in a deck chair. 4
springy adj ˈsprɪŋi something that is springy is soft and The grass was soft and springy. 4
comes back to its normal shape after
being pressed or walked on
bedding n ˈbedɪŋ sheets, covers etc that you put on a bed It's cold in this bedroom -- do you need 4
any more bedding?
equate v ɪˈkweɪt to consider that two things are similar or Most people equate wealth with success. 4
connected
rouse v raʊz to wake someone who is sleeping deeply His banging roused the neighbours. 4
rebellion n rɪˈbeljən when someone opposes or fights against If we don't give our staff a pay rise this 4
people in authority or ideas which they do year, there could be a rebellion.
not agree with
disordered adj dɪsˈɔːdəd if someone is mentally disordered, their An extreme diet is sometimes the starting 4
mind is not working in a normal and point for people who are eating
healthy way disordered.
crucial adj ˈkruːʃəl something that is crucial is extremely This aid money is crucial to the 4
important, because everything else government’s economic policies.
depends on it
preferable adj ˈprefərəbəl better or more suitable For this dish, fresh herbs and garlic are 4
preferable.
sensory adj ˈsensəri relating to or using your senses of sight, sensory stimuli such as music 4
hearing, smell, taste, or touch
overload n ˈəʊvələʊd to put too many things or people on or the modern day information overload 4
into something
doze v dəʊz to sleep lightly for a short time Granddad was dozing in his chair. 4
kip v kɪp to sleep somewhere, especially There are rooms for drivers to kip down 4
somewhere that is not your home for the night.
nap v næp Napping for 20 minutes in the afternoon 4
to sleep for a short time during the day can increase your levels of concentration.
snooze v snuːz to sleep lightly for a short time Dad was snoozing in his armchair. 4
crash out phr v kræʃ aʊt to go to bed, or go to sleep very quickly, The kids are so tired, they crashed out as 4
because you are very tired soon as they got into bed.
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speech
heated discussion n phr ˈhiːtəd dɪˈskʌʃən an argument etc that is full of angry and I'm not sure what the problem is but 4
excited feelings they're having quite a heated discussion.
drift off phr v drɪft ɒf to gradually fall asleep I was just drifting off when the phone 4
rang.
drop off phr v drɒp ɒf to begin to sleep She kept dropping off at her desk. 4
nod off phr v nɒd ɒf to begin to sleep, usually when you do I missed the movie because I kept 4
not intend to and are sitting somewhere nodding off.
make the case for v phr meɪk ðə keɪs fə give a set of reasons why something I'm going to make the case for 4
should happen or be done introducing exercise classes at work.
hang on to phr v hæŋ ɒn tə I want to hang onto this coat for 4
sentimental reasons, even though it
to keep something doesn't fit me.
as and when phr əz ənd wen from time to time I put money into my savings account as 4
and when I can afford it.
by and large phr baɪ ənd lɑːdʒ used when making a general statement By and large, the new arrangements have 4
worked well.
off and on phr ɒf ənd ɒn for short periods but not regularly, over a We’ve been going out together for five 4
long period of time years, off and on.
part and parcel phr pɑːt ənd ˈpɑːsəl Jet lag is part and parcel of international 4
to be a necessary feature of something travel.
through thick and phr θruː θɪk ənd θɪn in spite of any difficulties or problems Then, families stuck together through 4
thin thick and thin.
touch and go phr tʌtʃ ənd ɡəʊ uncertain It was touch and go for a while, but my 4
dog survived the operation and is much
better now.
intake n ˈɪnteɪk the amount of food, drink etc that you Try to reduce your intake of fat. 4
take into your body
onset n ˈɒnset the beginning of something, especially the onset of winter 4
something bad
back-up n bæk ʌp people or things that can be used to I can rely on my brother for back-up 4
provide support and help if they are when I'm arguing with my parents.
needed
setback n ˈsetbæk a problem that delays or prevents The December elections were a major 4
progress, or makes things worse than setback for the party.
they were
grin and bear it idm ɡrɪn ənd beə ɪt to accept an unpleasant or difficult The dinner Joe cooked was awful, but I 4
situation without complaining, usually managed to grin and bear it.
because you realize there is nothing you
can do to make it better
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speech
baffle v ˈbæfəl if something baffles you, you cannot The question baffled me completely. 4
understand or explain it at all
show off phr v ʃəʊ ɒf to try to make people admire your He couldn’t resist showing off on the 4
abilities, achievements, or possessions – tennis court.
used to show disapproval
make a fuss idm meɪk eɪ fʌs to complain or become angry about What are you making a fuss about? It's 4
something, especially when this is not just some spilt milk.
necessary
play something phr v pleɪ ˈsʌmθɪŋ daʊn to try to make something seem less Management has been playing down the 4
down important or less likely than it really is possibility of job losses.
get on one's nerves idm ɡet ɒn wʌnz nɜːvz if someone gets on your nerves, they My sister sings the same song all the time 4
annoy you, especially by doing something and it really gets on my nerves.
all the time
come out and say idm kʌm aʊt ənd seɪ be honest and explain clearly I can tell you're upset -- why don't you 4
just come out and say what's wrong?
know where you idm nəʊ weə jə ə know what the person is feeling I might upset people when I talk so 4
are honestly, but at least you know where
you are with me.
toe the line idm təʊ ðə laɪn to do what other people in a job or You toe the line or you don’t stay on the 4
organization say you should do, whether team!
you agree with them or not
conventional adj kənˈvenʃənəl a conventional method, product, practice Internet connections through 4
etc has been used for a long time and is conventional phone lines are fairly slow.
considered the usual type
vitality n vaɪˈtæləti, vaɪˈtælɪti great energy and eagerness to do things Despite her eighty years, Elsie was full of 4
vitality.
immaculate adj ɪˈmækjələt, ɪ very clean and tidy He wore an immaculate dark blue suit. 4
ˈmækjʊlət
melting pot n phr ˈmeltɪŋ pɒt a place where people from different races, New York has always been a great 4
countries, or social classes come to live melting pot.
together
social norm n phr ˈsəʊʃəl nɔːm the usual or normal situation, way of Getting married is less of a social norm 4
doing something in a society than it used to be.
apologetic adj əˌpɒləˈdʒetɪk showing or saying that you are sorry that The manager was very apologetic about 4
something has happened, especially everything.
because you feel guilty or embarrassed
about it
be put out phr v bi pʊt aʊt annoyed and upset I was really put out when you didn't call 4
me to cancel our date.
outfits pl n ˈaʊtfɪts a set of clothes worn together, especially The children wear special outfits for the 4
Advanced Expert 24
for a special occasion festival.
speech
straightforward adj ˌstreɪtˈfɔːwəd simple and easy to understand Installing the program is relatively 4
straightforward.
tattoo n təˈtuː, tæˈtuː a picture or writing that is permanently He has a tattoo of a snake on his left 4
marked on your skin using a needle and arm.
ink
activist n ˈæktəvəst, someone who works hard doing practical activist groups 4
ˈæktɪvəst things to achieve social or political change
infrastructure n ˈɪnfrəˌstrʌktʃə the basic systems and structures that a Some countries lack a suitable economic 4
country or organization needs in order to infrastructure.
work properly, for example roads,
railways, banks etc
mobility n məʊˈbɪləti, məʊ It's normal to have limited mobility after 4
ˈbɪlɪti the ability to move easily knee surgery.
come up with phr v kʌm ʌp wɪð think of I'm trying to come up with a way to make 4
my room look better without spending a
lot of money.
cycle rack n phr ˈsaɪkəl ræk You can park your bike in the cycle rack 4
a frame where you can store a bicycle outside the station.
be dotted around v phr bi ˈdɒt ɪd əˈraʊnd if an area is dotted with things, there are There are plenty of litter bins dotted 4
a lot of them there but they are spread around the park.
far apart
jump on the idm dʒʌmp ɒn ðə ˈbænd to start doing or saying something that a Shirley got a tattoo first, then Lisa and 4
bandwagon ˌwæɡən lot of people are already doing or saying - Cheryl jumped on the bandwagon and got
used to show disapproval tattoos too.
guerrilla n ɡəˈrɪlə a member of a small unofficial military American troops found themselves 4
group that fights in small groups fighting a guerrilla war.
slogan n ˈsləʊɡən a short phrase that is easy to remember an advertising slogan 4
and is used in advertisements, or by
politicians, organizations etc
discounted adj ˈdɪskaʊntɪd 4
chuck v tʃʌk to throw something in a careless or Tania chucked her bag down on the sofa. 4
relaxed way
enforce v ɪnˈfɔːs to make people obey a rule or law Governments make laws and the police 4
enforce them.
creep around phr v kriːp əˈraʊnd to move in a quiet, careful way, especially There's no point creeping around -- we 4
to avoid attracting attention can all see you!
cash in on phr v kæʃ ɪn ɒn Why don't you cash in on the craze for 4
to make a profit from a situation in a way motorbikes and sell yours for more than
that other people think is wrong or unfair you paid for it?
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speech
stuff n stʌf used when talking about different I enjoy reading, listening to music, 4
activities, subjects, or ideas, when you do watching TV -- that kind of stuff.
not say exactly what these are:
aggressive adj əˈɡresɪv behaving in an angry threatening way, as Jim’s voice became aggressive. 4
if you want to fight or attack someone
homelessness n ˈhəʊm ləsnəs without a home Even the richest cities in the world have 4
problems with homelessness.
be bothered with v phr bi ˈbɒðəd wɪð if you are not bothered with something, it I'm not bothered with getting a job 4
is not important to you because I want to continue studying.
empower v ɪmˈpaʊə to give someone more control over their The Voting Rights Act was needed to 4
own life or situation empower minority groups.
distribute v dɪˈstrɪbjuːt to share things among a group of people, Clothes and blankets have been 4
especially in a planned way distributed among the refugees.
graffiti n rude, humorous, or political writing and Some people don't like graffiti but I think 4
pictures on the walls of buildings, trains it's a form of art.
ɡræˈfiːti, ɡrə etc
petition n pəˈtɪʃən, pɪˈtɪʃən a written request signed by a lot of a petition against the new road 4
people, asking someone in authority to do
something or change something
make someone idm meɪk ˈsʌmwʌn bæk make someone admit that they are wrong You can't change my mind; I'm never 4
back down daʊn or that they have lost an argument going to back down.
have your say on idm v jə seɪ ɒn have an opportunity to speak and give You've talked for 30 minutes, now can I 4
your opinion have my say on the issue?
traffic congestion n phr ˈtræfɪk -ˈdʒestʃən very heavy traffic and traffic jams There is a real problem with traffic 4
congestion in the city centre.
well-briefed adj wel briːft given all the information you need You will be well briefed before we ask you 4
to start work.
credible candidate n phr ˈkredəbəl a candidate that deserves to be Some people don't think he is a credible 4
ˈkændədət trusted/believed candidate because he has served time in
prison.
utmost importance n phr ˈʌtməʊst ɪmˈpɔːtəns It is of the utmost importance that I 4
the greatest possible importance speak to a doctor immediately.
debatable adj dɪˈbeɪtəbəl things that are debatable are not certain a debatable point 4
because people have different opinions
about them
(idea) take off phr v (aɪˈdɪə) teɪk ɒf The idea really took off when people saw 4
to suddenly start being successful how much money they could save.
far afield adj phr fɑː əˈfiːld She has fans from as far afield as Chile 4
far away, especially from home and Japan.
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speech
catch on phr v kætʃ ɒn to become popular and fashionable The idea of glasses being a fashion item 4
has been slow to catch on.
onlooker n ˈɒnˌlʊkə someone who watches something A crowd of onlookers had gathered at the 5
happening without being involved in it scene of the accident.
recipient n rɪˈsɪpiənt someone who receives something the recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize 5
derivative n dɪˈrɪvətɪv something that has developed or been Heroin is a derivative of morphine. 5
produced from something else
source n sɔːs a thing, place, activity etc that you get They get their money from various 5
something from sources.
equate v ɪˈkweɪt to consider that two things are similar or Most people equate wealth with success. 5
connected
equivalent n ɪˈkwɪvələnt something that has the same value, The word has no equivalent in English. 5
purpose, job etc as something else
hog v hɒɡ to keep, use, or have all of something How much longer are you going to hog 5
that should be shared the bathroom?
something
alleviate v əˈliːvieɪt to make something less painful or difficult a new medicine to alleviate the symptoms 5
to deal with of flu
dual adj ˈdjuːəl having two of something or two parts The bridge has a dual role, carrying both 5
road and rail.
offspring n ˈɒfˌsprɪŋ someone’s child or children – often used a young mother trying to control her 5
humorously offspring
spirited adj ˈspɪrətəd, ˈspɪrɪtəd having energy and determination – used a spirited and energetic girl 5
to show approval
surplus to adj phr ˈsɜːpləs tə rɪ an amount of something that is more This paper is surplus to requirements so 5
requirements ˈkwaɪəmənts than what is needed I'm going to recycle it.
dispose v dɪˈspəʊz to get rid of something, especially I dispose of all my glass at a recycling 5
something that is difficult to get rid of bank.
landfill n ˈlændfɪl the practice of burying waste under the There is no room left in my town for 5
ground, or the waste buried in this way landfill.
instil v ɪnˈstɪl to teach someone to think, behave, or A manager’s job is to instil determination 5
feel in a particular way over a period of into his players.
time
dispute v dɪˈspjuːt to say that something such as a fact or The main facts of the book have never 5
idea is not correct or true been disputed.
opportunistic adj ˌɒpətjuːˈnɪstɪk someone who uses every opportunity to opportunistic thefts from cars 5
gain power, money, or unfair advantages
– used to show disapproval
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speech
predator n ˈpredətə an animal that kills and eats other The shark is the most powerful predator 5
animals in the sea.
detrimental adj ˌdetrəˈmentl, ˌdetrɪ causing harm or damage Smoking is detrimental to your health. 5
ˈmentl
mammal n ˈmæməl a type of animal that drinks milk from its Humans are mammals, just like 5
mother’s body when it is young. Humans, chimpanzees and dogs.
dogs, and whales are mammals.
contemplate v ˈkɒntəmpleɪt to think about something that you might He had even contemplated suicide. 5
do in the future
neuter v ˈnjuːtə to remove part of the sex organs of an a neutered tomcat 5
animal so that it cannot produce babies
dusk n dʌsk the time before it gets dark when the sky The street lights go on at dusk. 5
is becoming less bright
advocate v ˈædvəkeɪt to publicly support a particular way of Extremists were openly advocating 5
doing something violence.
finite adj ˈfaɪnaɪt having an end or a limit the Earth’s finite resources 5
feline adj ˈfiːlaɪn relating to cats or other members of the She moves with feline grace. 5
cat family, such as lions
premium adj ˈpriːmiəm I only buy premium cheese, I don't like 5
of very high quality the taste of the cheap products.
sinner n ˈsɪnə someone who has sinned by not obeying When I asked for a plastic bag she looked 5
God’s laws as me as though I were a sinner.
excess adj ˈekses additional and not needed because there Cut any excess fat from the meat. 5
is already enough of something
spark off phr v spɑːk ɒf to be the cause of something, especially The hot weather sparked off some 5
trouble or violence dramatic thunderstorms.
thin on the ground idm θɪn ɒn ðə ɡraʊnd if a particular type of person or thing is Supporters of the politician are thin on 5
thin on the ground, there are very few the ground -- no more than a handful.
available
emit v ɪˈmɪt to send out gas, heat, light, sound etc The kettle emitted a shrill whistle. 5
give rise to v phr ɡɪv raɪz tə to be the reason why something happens, The flooding gave rise to a lot of damage 5
especially something bad or unpleasant in homes.
wipe out phr v waɪp aʊt to destroy, remove, or get rid of Whole villages were wiped out by the 5
something completely floods.
spray v spreɪ to force liquid out of a container so that it She sprayed herself with perfume. 5
comes out in a stream of very small drops
and covers an area
build-up n bɪld ʌp an increase over a period of time a heavy build-up of traffic on the 5
motorway
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speech
ozone layer n phr ˈəʊzəʊn ˈleɪə a layer of gases in the sky that prevents the hole in the ozone layer 5
harmful radiation from the sun from
reaching the Earth
famine n ˈfæmən, ˈfæmɪn a situation in which a large number of the great potato famine in Ireland 5
people have little or no food for a long
time and many people die
genetically- v dʒəˈnetɪkli genetically-modified foods and plants Consumers are turning their backs on 5
modified ˌmɒdɪfaɪd have had their GENETIC (=the materials genetically-modified ingredients, and
that control the development of particular demanding organic products.
qualities) structure changed so that they
are not affected by certain diseases or
harmful insects
imminent adj ˈɪmənənt, ˈɪmɪnənt an event that is imminent, especially an He was in imminent danger of dying. 5
unpleasant one, will happen very soon
oblivious adj əˈblɪviəs not knowing about or not noticing He seemed oblivious to the fact that he 5
something that is happening around you had hurt her.
implication n ˌɪmpləˈkeɪʃən, a possible future effect or result of an What are the implications of these 5
ˌɪmplɪˈkeɪʃən action, event, decision etc proposals?
pollinate v ˈpɒləneɪt, ˈpɒlɪneɪt to give a flower or plant pollen so that it flowers pollinated by bees 5
can produce seeds
depends on it
inevitable adj ɪˈnevətəbəl, ɪ certain to happen and impossible to avoid A further escalation of the crisis now 5
ˈnevɪtəbəl seems inevitable.
knock-on effect n phr ˌnɒk ˈɒn ɪˈfekt We have had no rain for six months and 5
o start a process in which everything that the knock-on effect is that many plants
happens causes something else to happen have died.
availability n əˌveɪləˈbɪləti, ə something that is available is able to be the availability of affordable housing 5
ˌveɪləˈbɪlɪti used or can easily be bought or found
be right up there idm bi raɪt ʌp ðeə wɪð is amongst the best/most important My wedding day is right up there as one 5
with of the happiest moments of my life.
scenario n səˈnɑːriəʊ, sɪ a situation that could possibly happen Imagine a scenario where only 20% of 5
ˈnɑːriəʊ people have a job.
deteriorate v dɪˈtɪəriəreɪt to become worse Ethel’s health has deteriorated. 5
corresponding adj ˌkɒrəˈspɒndɪŋ, ˌkɒrɪ caused by or connected with something The war and the corresponding fall in 5
ˈspɒndɪŋ you have already mentioned trade have had a devastating effect on
the country.
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speech
repetitive adj rɪˈpetətɪv, rɪˈpetɪtɪv done many times in the same way, and repetitive tasks like washing and ironing 5
boring
diversity n daɪˈvɜːsəti, daɪ the fact of including many different types The curriculum will take account of the 5
ˈvɜːsɪti, də- of people or things ethnic diversity of the population.
be prone to v phr bi prəʊn tə likely to do something or suffer from We live near a river and our house is 5
something, especially something bad or prone to flooding.
harmful
immune system n phr ɪˈmjuːn ˈsɪstəm the system by which your body protects My immune system is not as strong as it 5
itself against disease ought to be.
thrive v θraɪv to become very successful or very strong plants that thrive in tropical rain forests 5
and healthy
infect v ɪnˈfekt to give someone a disease People with the virus may feel perfectly 5
well, but they can still infect others.
pesticide n ˈpestəsaɪd, a chemical substance used to kill insects Pesticides are useful for farmers because 5
ˈpestɪsaɪd and small animals that destroy crops they increase the size of the harvest.
wipe out v waɪp aʊt to destroy, remove, or get rid of Whole villages were wiped out by the 5
something completely floods.
disoriented adj dɪsˈɔːrientəd, dɪs confused and not understanding what is When he emerged into the street, he was 5
ˈɔːrientɪd happening around you completely disoriented.
habitat n ˈhæbətæt, ˈhæbɪtæt the natural home of a plant or animal watching monkeys in their natural habitat 5
further afield adj ˈfɜːðə əˈfiːld further away If you want something unusual, you 5
should look further afield rather than in
just the local shops.
phenomenon n fɪˈnɒmənən, fɪ something that happens or exists in the growing phenomenon of 5
ˈnɒmɪnən society, science, or nature, especially telecommuting
something that is studied because it is
difficult to understand
pest n pest a small animal or insect that destroys a chemical used in pest control 5
crops or food supplies
virtually adv ˈvɜːtʃuəli almost Virtually all the children come to school 5
by bus.
bitterly adv ˈbɪtəli in a way that produces or shows feelings He complained bitterly about his exam 5
of great sadness or anger grades.
unspoilt adj ˌʌn ˈspɔɪəlt an unspoilt place is beautiful because it This stretch of coastline is really natural 5
has not changed for a long time and does and unspoilt.
not have a lot of new buildings
dependent adj dɪˈpendənt needing someone or something in order Norway’s economy is heavily dependent 5
to exist, be successful, be healthy etc on natural resources.
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speech
beneficial adj ˌbenəˈfɪʃəl, ˌbenɪ having a good effect a drug that has a beneficial effect on the 5
ˈfɪʃəl immune system
hacker n ˈhækə someone who secretly uses or changes A hacker had managed to get into the 5
the information in other people’s system.
computer systems
breed n briːd a type of animal that is kept as a pet or Spaniels are my favourite breed of dog. 5
on a farm
threat n θret The team we're playing this weekend is a 5
someone or something that is regarded as bit of a threat, but I'm sure we can beat
a possible danger them.
acknowledge v əkˈnɒlɪdʒ to admit or accept that something is true The family acknowledge the need for 5
or that a situation exists change.
bound to be adj baʊnd tə bi to be very likely to do or feel a particular You're bound to feel a bit lonely when 5
thing your sister goes to university.
in perspective adj phr ɪn pəˈspektɪv You might not have got an A grade, but 5
judge the importance of something you need to get things into perspective --
correctly you can still go to university.
privacy n ˈprɪvəsi, ˈpraɪ- the state of being able to be alone, and With seven people squashed in one 5
not seen or heard by other people house, you don’t get much privacy.
scandalous adj ˈskændələs completely unfair and wrong a scandalous waste of public money 5
ferret through phr v ˈferət θruː to search for something that is lost or I can't find the invitation; could you ferret 5
hidden among a lot of things or inside a through that pile of paper while I look
drawer, box etc upstairs?
discard v dɪsˈkɑːd to get rid of something Discard any old cleaning materials. 5
scary adj ˈskeəri frightening a scary moment 5
hush something up phr v hʌʃ ˈsʌmθɪŋ ʌp to prevent people from knowing about The whole affair was hushed up by the 5
something dishonest or immoral government.
unsettle v ʌnˈsetl to make someone feel slightly nervous, The sudden changes unsettled Judy. 5
worried, or upset
hardened adj ˈhɑːdnd a criminal, police officer etc who has had Dan is a hardened smoker -- I think he'll 5
a lot of experience of things that are find it very difficult to give up now.
shocking and is therefore less affected by
them
fall for v phr fɔːl fə to be tricked into believing something The criminal tricked me out of my money 5
that is not true -- I can't believe I fell for it!
stalk v stɔːk to follow a person or animal quietly in a tiger stalking its prey 5
order to catch and attack or kill them
Advanced Expert 31
speech
hold hostage v phr həʊld ˈhɒstɪdʒ keep someone as a prisoner so that the The workers were kidnapped and held 5
other side will do what the enemy hostage in a secret location for 10 days.
demands
unforgivable adj an unforgivable action is so bad or cruel I really find it unforgiveable that my best 5
that you cannot forgive the person who friend stole my boyfriend.
ˌʌnfəˈɡɪvəbəl did it
one step ahead idm wʌn step əˈhed already doing what needs to be done You've already made cakes for the party? 5
You're always one step ahead!
outsmart v aʊtˈsmɑːt to gain an advantage over someone using The older kids outsmart the young ones 5
tricks or your intelligence when trading cards.
dire adj daɪə extremely serious or terrible warnings of dire consequences that often 5
don’t come true
on your guard adj phr ɒn jə ɡɑːd to be paying attention to what is These men are dangerous so you’ll need 5
happening in order to avoid danger, being to be on your guard.
tricked etc
mugger n ˈmʌɡə someone who attacks people in a public A mugger took my mum's phone from her 5
place and robs them when she was walking home last night.
fire off phr v faɪə ɒf send quickly and without much thought I was so angry I fired off an email to my 5
boss. The next day I regretted it.
sheer adj ʃɪə used to emphasize that something is very The sheer size of the country makes 5
heavy, large etc communications difficult.
instantaneous adj ˌɪnstənˈteɪniəs happening immediately modern methods of instantaneous 5
communication
scam n skæm a clever but dishonest way to get money He got involved in a credit card scam. 5
sharp-witted adj ˌʃɑːpˈwɪtəd, ˌʃɑːp able to think and react very quickly I've never been sharp-witted, so busy 5
ˈwɪtɪd cities with lots of people frighten me a
bit.
body scan n phr ˈbɒdi skæn a scan with a special machine that The last time I went through security at 5
produces a picture of something outside an airport, I had to have a body scan.
your body, for security purposes
biometric adj ˌbaɪəʊˈmetrɪk relating to technology that can be used to biometric data 5
measure things such as people’s eyes or
fingerprints. These measurements can be
kept on computer and then used to check
someone’s identity, for example when
they show a passport at an airport
CCTV camera n phr ˌsiː siː tiː ˈviː security cameras that help police find I don't mind CCTVs cameras -- the only 5
ˈkæmərə criminals people who should worry about them are
criminals.
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speech
fencing n ˈfensɪŋ fences or the pieces of wood, metal etc The lord put fencing all around his land to 5
used to make them keep trespassers out.
phone tap n phr fəʊn tæp an act of secretly listening to someone's Governments sometimes put a phone tap 5
telephone, using electronic equipment on people who they believe are criminals.
swipe card n phr swaɪp kɑːd a special plastic card that you slide This swipe card gives me access to my 5
through a machine in order to get into a office.
building or open a door
intimidating adj ɪˈtɪmədeɪtɪŋ, ɪ making you feel worried and not confident Some people find interview situations 5
ˈtɪmɪdeɪtɪŋ very intimidating.
pick up phr v pɪk ʌp to learn something by watching or I find it very difficult to pick up 5
listening to other people languages, it takes me lots of practice.
constant adj ˈkɒnstənt happening regularly or all the time There was a constant stream of visitors to 6
the house.
state of flux n phr steɪt əv flʌks a situation in which things are changing a Nature is always in a state of flux -- some 6
lot and you cannot be sure what will things growing, some things dying.
happen
disuse n dɪsˈjuːs a situation in which something is no The building eventually fell into disuse. 6
longer used
productive adj prəˈdʌktɪv producing or achieving a lot Most of us are more productive in the 6
morning.
deserted adj dɪˈzɜːtəd, dɪˈzɜːtɪd empty and quiet because no people are The streets were deserted. 6
there
practically adv ˈpræktɪkli almost I’ve read practically all of his books. 6
literate adj ˈlɪtərət, ˈlɪtərɪt able to read and write My great-grandmother was the first 6
person in my family to be literate.
give the green light idm ɡɪv ðə ɡriːn laɪt The council has given the green light for 6
20 new homes to be built on the edge of
to allow a project, plan etc to begin town.
virtually adv ˈvɜːtʃuəli almost Virtually all the children come to school 6
by bus.
notably adv ˈnəʊtəbli used to say that a person or thing is a Some early doctors, notably Hippocrates, 6
typical example or the most important thought that diet was important.
example of something
come across as phr v kʌm əˈkrɒs əz if someone comes across in a particular Julian often comes across as bossy, but 6
way, they seem to have particular really he just wants to get the job done
qualities well.
pretentious adj prɪˈtenʃəs if someone or something is pretentious, a pretentious film 6
they try to seem more important,
intelligent, or high class than they really
are in order to be impressive
Advanced Expert 33
speech
particularly adv pəˈtɪkjələli, pə more than usual or more than others Steve was in a particularly bad mood 6
ˈtɪkjʊləli when he got back.
clumsy adj ˈklʌmzi moving or doing things in a careless way, A clumsy waiter spilled wine all over her 6
especially so that you drop things, knock new skirt.
into things etc
wind someone up phr v wɪnd ˈsʌmwʌn ʌp to deliberately say or do something that My older brother knows exactly what to 6
will annoy or worry someone, as a joke say to wind me up.
fade away phr v feɪd əˈweɪ My memories of my grandparents have 6
to gradually disappear faded away over time.
turn back the clock idm tɜːn bæk ðə klɒk to return to a good situation that you You may be wearing more fashionable 6
experienced in the past or to make clothes, but it's not going to turn back the
someone remember such a situation clock.
driving force n phr ˈdraɪvɪŋ fɔːs someone or something that strongly Hawks was the driving force behind the 6
influences people and makes them do project.
something
take short cuts idm teɪk ʃɔːt kʌts use a quicker way of doing something You can't take short cuts with this recipe 6
-- it has to cook for a long time.
motivator n ˈməʊtəveɪtə, something or someone that makes you Money is a good motivator. 6
ˈməʊtɪveɪtə want to do or achieve something
vibrant adj ˈvaɪbrənt full of activity or energy in a way that is Hong Kong is a vibrant, fascinating city. 6
exciting and attractive
obtrusive adj əbˈtruːsɪv noticeable in an unpleasant or annoying obtrusive TV antennas 6
way
adapt v əˈdæpt to gradually change your behaviour and The children are finding it hard to adapt 6
attitudes in order to be successful in a to the new school.
new situation
revel in phr v ˈrevəl ɪn I revel in the fact that there are so many 6
to enjoy something very much wonderful theatres near my house.
applaud v əˈplɔːd to express strong approval of an idea, I'd like to applaud everyone who has 6
plan etc raised money for our charity today.
a wealth of phr eɪ welθ əv You'll find a wealth of interesting objects 6
a lot of something useful or good in our museum.
get your message idm ɡet jə mesɪdʒ əʊvə make someone understand what you are I explained it three times to Neil but I'm 6
over saying still not sure I got my message over.
get through to idm ɡet θruː tə make yourself understood to someone I spent a long time telling her my side of 6
the story, but I just couldn't get through
to her.
bring up (a phr v brɪŋ ʌp (eɪ to mention a subject or start to talk about She's still upset about the divorce so it's 6
subject) ˈsʌbdʒɪkt) it best not to bring up the subject.
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speech
crop up phr v krɒp ʌp if a problem crops up, it happens or Your name kept cropping up in 6
appears suddenly and in an unexpected conversation.
way
talk someone out phr v tɔːk ˈsʌmwʌn aʊt əv dissuade someone from doing something Luckily I managed to talk my daughter 6
of out of getting a tattoo.
talk over phr v tɔːk ˈəʊvə discuss something If you're worried about the exams, why 6
don't you talk it over with your teacher?
on behalf of phr ɒn bɪˈhɑːf əv instead of someone, or as their I speak on behalf of all the teachers when 6
representative I wish this year's students good luck.
needless to say phr ˈniːdləs tə seɪ used when you are telling someone Needless to say, any contributions of 6
something that they probably know or money will be gratefully received.
expect
on speaking terms phr ɒn ˈspiːk ɪŋ tɜːmz They had an argument in 1992 and have 6
with wɪð have a good relationship with someone not been on speaking terms since.
talk sense into phr v tɔːk sens ˈɪntə I tried to talk sense into him but he 6
try to make someone behave in a more wouldn't listen and bought a motorbike
sensible way anyway.
make small talk v phr meɪk smɔːl tɔːk have a polite friendly conversation about I'm not very good at making small talk 6
unimportant subjects with strangers.
go without saying v phr ɡəʊ wɪðˈaʊt ˈseɪ-ɪŋ if something goes without saying, it It goes without saying that I will send 6
doesn't need to be mentioned Mary a birthday card.
get a word in v phr ɡet eɪ wɜːd ɪn Sandrine talks nonstop -- you can't get a 6
edgeways ˈedʒweɪz to get a chance to say something word in edgeways.
miss the point of v phr mɪs ðə pɔɪnt əv not recognise the purpose or aim of You've missed the point -- I'm trying to 6
something tell you I'm sorry.
make head or tail idm meɪk hed ə teɪl əv to be completely unable to understand These instructions are so confusing, I 6
of something can't make head or tail of them.
have a go at idm v eɪ ɡəʊ ət ˈsʌmwʌn Please don't have a go at me -- I was 6
someone to criticize someone only trying to help.
go on about phr v ɡəʊ ɒn əˈbaʊt talk endlessly, in a boring way I get so bored when Liam starts going on 6
about his car.
drop hints about v phr drɒp hɪnts əˈbaʊt say or do something to suggest I've been dropping hints about getting 6
something to someone, without telling married for years, but he still hasn't
them directly asked me.
take the words out idm teɪk ðə wɜːdz aʊt əv say what the other person was thinking or When Sally suggested going to London 6
of someone's ˈsʌmwʌnz maʊθ about to say for the weekend, she took the words right
mouth out of my mouth.
a good grounding n phr eɪ ɡʊd ˈɡraʊndɪŋ ɪn training in the basic parts of a subject or This class will give you a good grounding 6
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in skill in grammar.
speech
reassurance n ˌriːəˈʃʊərəns something that is said or done which Parents are looking for reassurance about 6
makes someone feel calmer and less their children’s safety.
worried or frightened about a problem
availability n əˌveɪləˈbɪləti, ə something that is available is able to be the availability of affordable housing 6
ˌveɪləˈbɪlɪti used or can easily be bought or found
inconsiderate adj ˌɪnkənˈsɪdərət, not caring about the feelings, needs, or inconsiderate motorists 6
ˌɪnkənˈsɪdərɪt comfort of other people
a minority of n phr eɪ maɪˈnɒrəti əv a small group of people or things within a A minority of young people give 6
much larger group teenagers a bad reputation.
approval n əˈpruːvəl when a plan, decision, or person is The president has already given his 6
officially accepted approval to the plan.
a means to an end phr eɪ miːnz tə ən end something that you do only to achieve a For Geoff, the job was simply a means to 6
result, not because you want to do it or an end.
because it is important
actually adv ˈæktʃuəli, -tʃəli used to add new information to what you I’ve known Barbara for years. Since we 6
have just said, to give your opinion, or to were babies, actually.
start a new conversation
open someone's idm ˈəʊpən ˌsʌmwʌnz make someone realise something When I fell ill, it opened my eyes to how 6
eyes to aɪz tə unhealthy my lifestyle was.
stuck in a rut idm stʌk ɪn eɪ rʌt living or working in a situation that never I think our relationship ended because we 6
changes, so that you feel bored got stuck in a rut.
get by on phr v ɡet baɪ ɒn to have enough money to buy the things When I was a student I got by on £20 a 6
you need, but no more week.
incentive n ɪnˈsentɪv something that encourages you to work As an added incentive, there’s a bottle of 6
harder, start a new activity etc champagne for the best team.
tough going adj phr tʌf ˈɡəʊɪŋ Recovering from my skiing accident was 6
difficult to do or deal with tough going.
payoff n peɪ ɒf The payoff for spending hours learning 6
an advantage or profit that you get as a the guitar is that I can now play in a
result of doing something band.
inadequate adj ɪnˈædəkwət, ɪn not good enough, big enough, skilled inadequate resources 6
ˈædɪkwət enough etc for a particular purpose
take a year out phr v teɪk eɪ jɪə aʊt to stop doing something for a year When I lost my job I decided to take a 6
year out to go travelling.
from scratch adj phr frəm skrætʃ if you start something from scratch, you We had to start again from scratch. 6
begin it without using anything that
existed or was prepared before
end up as phr v end ʌp əz to be in a particular situation, state, or Despite studying physics, May ended up 6
place after a series of events, especially as a fashion designer.
Advanced Expert 36
when you did not plan it
speech
change tack idm tʃeɪndʒ tæk change the way you deal with a particular When she looked confused I changed tack 6
situation or a method that you use to and explained it a different way.
achieve something
have time on your idm v taɪm ɒn jə hændz have time to spare I started to work as a volunteer because I 6
hands had time on my hands.
comfort zone n phr ˈkʌmfət zəʊn your comfort zone is the range of Learning to fly a plane really pushed me 6
activities or situations that you feel happy out of my comfort zone.
and confident in
narrow something phr v ˈnærəʊ ˈsʌmθɪŋ to reduce the number of things included The police have narrowed down their list 6
down daʊn in a range of suspects.
switch v swɪtʃ to change from doing or using one thing She worked as a librarian before 6
to doing or using another switching to journalism.
conduct research n phr kənˈdʌkt rɪˈsɜːtʃ to carry out a particular activity or Very little research has been conducted 6
process, especially in order to get into what our dreams mean.
information or prove facts
intuition n ˌɪntjuˈɪʃən the ability to understand or know feminine intuition 6
something because of a feeling rather
than by considering the facts
a (guitar) freak n eɪ (ɡɪˈtɑː) friːk someone who is extremely interested in a I've always been a TV freak -- I watch 6
particular subject so that other people anything!
think they are strange or unusual
take for granted v phr teɪk fə ˈɡrɑːntəd I never realised how much I took my 6
to believe that something is true without mum's cooking for granted until I moved
making sure into my own flat.
go along with phr v ɡəʊ əˈlɒŋ wɪð agree to do something that someone else I wasn't that interested in going to the 6
wants to do party, but I went along with it to keep
Sarah happy.
dawn on someone phr v dɔːn ɒn ˈsʌmwʌn It was only when I saw the list of marks 6
if a feeling or idea dawns, you have it for that it dawned on me I had come first in
the first time the class.
detail v ˈdiːteɪl to list things or give all the facts or The report details the progress we have 6
information about something made over the last year.
snap judgement n phr snæp ˈdʒʌdʒmənt a judgment or decision made quickly, I made a snap judgement and close the 6
without careful thought or discussion office.
mull over phr v mʌl ˈəʊvə to think about a problem, plan etc for a We mulled over getting a pet for weeks, 6
long time before making a decision and finally decided on a cat.
flash onto v flæʃ ˈɒntə to be shown quickly on television, on a It makes my head ache when so many 6
computer, or on a film different images flash onto the screen.
participant n pɑːˈtɪsəpənt, pɑː someone who is taking part in an activity an active participant in the negotiations 6
Advanced Expert 37
ˈtɪsɪpənt or event
speech
distract v dɪˈstrækt to take someone’s attention away from Try not to distract the other students. 6
something by making them look at or
listen to something else
unconscious adj ʌnˈkɒnʃəs Even while you're sleeping, your 6
a feeling or thought that is unconscious is unconscious mind will try to solve your
one that you have without realizing it problems.
store v stɔː to put things away and keep them until Squirrels are storing up nuts for the 6
you need them winter.
kaleidoscopic adj kəˌlaɪdəˈskɒpɪk kaleidoscopic scenes, colours, or patterns The flowerbeds are full of kaleidoscopic 6
change often and quickly colour.
electrode n ɪˈlektrəʊd a small piece of metal or a wire that is The monkeys have electrodes implanted 6
used to send electricity through a system into the brain to measure their brain
or through a person’s body activity.
dream up phrv driːm ʌp to think of a plan or idea, especially an I love dreaming up poems and then 6
unusual one singing them.
eminently adv ˈemɪnəntli completely and without a doubt – use this Woods is eminently suitable for the job. 6
to show approval
livid adj ˈlɪvəd, ˈlɪvɪd extremely angry She was absolutely livid that he had lied. 6
burst into tears idm bɜːst ˈɪntə tɪəz start crying suddenly I was so sad when he told me the news, I 6
burst into tears.
in two minds idm ɪn tuː maɪndz unsure about I'm in two minds about moving to Oxford 6
because I really love living in London.
stranded adj ˈstrændəd, a person or vehicle that is stranded is Air travellers were left stranded because 6
ˈstrændɪd unable to move from the place where of icy conditions.
they are
tingle v ˈtɪŋɡəl if a part of your body tingles, you feel a My body tingled all over and I had a 6
slight stinging feeling, especially on your terrible headache.
skin
wind someone up phr v wɪnd ˈsʌmwʌn ʌp to deliberately say or do something that Ricky is always late and it really winds me 6
will annoy or worry someone, as a joke up.
wear thin idm weə θɪn if something is wearing thin, you are His embarrassing jokes are starting to 6
bored with it because it is not interesting wear thin.
any more, or has become annoying
be down v phr bi daʊn feel depressed I'd been ill for so long, I felt really down. 6
grouchy adj ˈɡraʊtʃi in a bad temper, especially because you Don't be grouchy -- I'm sure your boss 6
are tired didn't mean to upset you.
cheer up phr v tʃɪə ʌp to become less sad, or to make someone Cheer up! The worst is over. 6
feel less sad
in high spirits idm ɪn haɪ ˈspɪrɪts excited and happy It was Christmas day and everyone was 6
Advanced Expert 38
in high spirits.
speech
out of sorts adj phr aʊt əv sɔːts I can't say what's wrong exactly, I just 6
feeling a little ill or upset feel out of sorts.
lose one's cool idm luːz wʌnz kuːl to stop being calm in an annoying or When Ben said he had ruined my shirt, I 6
frightening situation lost my cool and shouted at him.
fly into a rage v phr flaɪ ˈɪntə eɪ reɪdʒ I got home late last night and dad flew 6
suddenly become very angry into a rage.
do one's head in idm duː wʌnz hed ɪn Mum is always telling me to tidy up -- it 6
to make you feel confused and annoyed does my head in.
on reflection phr ɒn rɪˈflekʃən after careful thought, or an idea or On reflection, I should probably apologise 6
opinion based on this for the things I said.
in the heat of the phr ɪn ðə hiːt əv ðə I didn't mean it -- I just said those things 6
moment ˈməʊmənt when feelings were very strong in the heat of the moment.
ratty adj ˈræti becoming annoyed quickly or easily I feel guilty about getting ratty with the 6
children.
beside oneself adj bɪˈsaɪd wʌnˈself to be feeling so angry, excited etc that When Emma didn't come home, I was 6
you find it difficult to control yourself beside myself with worry.
make a scene idm meɪk eɪ siːn have a loud angry argument, especially in Your food was a bit cold, but I don't think 6
a public place it's worth making a scene.
pull oneself idm pʊl wʌnˈself təˈɡeðə You'll have to pull yourself together and 6
together to force yourself to stop behaving in a stop crying if you're going to drive the
nervous, frightened, or uncontrolled way car.
get to someone idm ɡet tə ˈsʌmwʌn My brother always seems to be my 6
parents' favourite child and it really gets
to make someone feel annoyed or upset to me.
keep one's head idm kiːp wʌnz hed to remain calm and sensible in a difficult To win an argument, you need to keep 6
or frightening situation your head and not get emotional.
laid-back adj ˌleɪd ˈbæk relaxed and seeming not to be worried I don’t know how you can be so laid-back 7
about anything about your exams.
uncharacteristically adv not typical of someone or something and He was uncharacteristically quiet. 7
ʌnˌkærətəˈrɪstɪkli therefore surprising
high-pitched adj ˌhaɪ ˈpɪtʃt a high-pitched voice or sound is very high That dog has a really annoying high- 7
pitched bark.
be taken aback idm bi ˈteɪkən əˈbæk to be very surprised about something Emma was somewhat taken aback by his 7
directness.
downside n ˈdaʊnsaɪd the negative part or disadvantage of Digital mobile phones offer more security, 7
something but the downside is that they have less
power.
stir up phr v stɜː ʌp to make someone have a strong feeling or That photo stirred up memories of a 7
a reaction holiday I took with my parents.
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implicit adj ɪmˈplɪsət, ɪmˈplɪsɪt suggested or understood without being Her words contained an implicit threat. 7
stated directly
speech
trigger v ˈtrɪɡə to make something happen very quickly, The assassination triggered off a wave of 7
especially a series of events rioting.
retrieve v rɪˈtriːv to find something and bring it back She bent down to retrieve her earring. 7
distinct adj dɪˈstɪŋkt clearly different or belonging to a different two entirely distinct languages 7
type
explicit adj ɪkˈsplɪsət, ɪkˈsplɪsɪt expressed in a way that is very clear and The contrast could not have been made 7
direct more explicit.
seemingly adv ˈsiːmɪŋli appearing to have a particular quality, seemingly unrelated bits of information 7
when this may or may not be true
take on (identity) phr v teɪk ɒn (aɪˈdentəti) to begin to have a particular quality or When I talked to the actor, I took on the 7
appearance characteristics of a love-sick teenager.
identity n aɪˈdentəti, aɪˈdentɪti someone’s identity is their name or who The identity of the killer is still unknown. 7
they are
attitude n ˈætətjuːd, ˈætɪtjuːd the opinions and feelings that you usually As soon as they found out I was a doctor, 7
have about something, especially when their whole attitude changed.
this is shown in your behaviour
defensive adj dɪˈfensɪv behaving in a way that shows you think There's no need to get so defensive, I 7
someone is criticizing you even if they are was only making a suggestion.
not
defiant adj dɪˈfaɪənt clearly refusing to do what someone tells Mark smashed a fist on the desk in a 7
you to do defiant gesture.
regression n rɪˈɡreʃən the act of returning to an earlier condition People sometimes experience regression 7
that is worse or less developed when they are hypnotised.
interaction n ˌɪntərˈækʃən the activity of talking to other people, I work from home and miss interaction 7
working together with them etc with other people.
spark off phr v spɑːk ɒf to be the cause of something, especially One small comment sparked off a huge 7
trouble or violence row between them.
subconscious adj sʌb ˈkɒnʃəs subconscious feelings, desires etc are Because I got lost when I was very 7
hidden in your mind and affect your young, I now have a subconscious fear of
behaviour, but you do not know that you being left alone.
have them
irrelevant adj ɪˈreləvənt, ɪˈrelɪvənt not useful or not relating to a particular We’re focussing too much on irrelevant 7
situation, and therefore not important details.
something
connection n kəˈnekʃən the way in which two facts, ideas, events the causal connection between smoking 7
etc are related to each other, and one is and cancer
Advanced Expert 40
affected or caused by the other
evaluate v ɪˈvæljueɪt to judge how good, useful, or successful You should be able to evaluate your own 7
something is work.
speech
occurrence n əˈkʌrəns something that happens Laughter was a rare occurrence in his 7
classroom.
differentiate v ˌdɪfəˈrenʃieɪt to recognize or express the difference It’s important to differentiate between 7
between things or people fact and opinion.
act out phr v ækt aʊt to express your feelings about something Stop acting out your frustrations from 7
through your behaviour or actions, your childhood and just behave like an
especially when you have been feeling adult!
angry or nervous
behavioural adj bɪˈheɪvjərəl the things that a person or animal does behavioural science 7
outburst n ˈaʊtbɜːst There was an outburst of cheering when 7
a sudden short increase in an activity the band came onto the stage.
lapse n læps a short period of time during which you Despite the occasional lapse, this was a 7
fail to do something well or properly, fine performance by the young
often caused by not being careful saxophonist.
sensitive adj ˈsensətɪv, ˈsensɪtɪv able to understand other people’s feelings a sensitive and intelligent young man 7
and problems
identify v aɪˈdentəfaɪ, aɪ to feel sympathy with someone or be able I'm so different from my parents, I've 7
ˈdentɪfaɪ to share their feelings never really identified with them.
internalise v ɪnˈtɜːnəlaɪz if you internalize a particular belief, I don't like talking about emotions -- I 7
attitude, behaviour etc, it becomes part of tend to internalise them instead.
your character
overwhelmed adj ˌəʊv ə ˈwelmd if work or a problem overwhelms I was so overwhelmed with all my 7
someone, it is too much or too difficult to homework, I was sure I wouldn't be able
deal with to cope.
accusation n ˌækjəˈzeɪʃən, ˌækjʊ a statement saying that someone is guilty A number of serious accusations have 7
ˈzeɪʃən of a crime or of doing something wrong been made against her.
harsh adj hɑːʃ A prison term of 10 years for stealing 7
severe, cruel, or unkind some eggs seems a bit harsh.
perceive v pəˈsiːv to understand or think of something or Even as a young woman she had been 7
someone in a particular way perceived as a future chief executive.
severe adj səˈvɪə, sɪˈvɪə severe problems, injuries, illnesses etc His injuries were quite severe. 7
are very bad or very serious
depend on phr v dɪˈpend ɒn to need the support, help, or existence of I depended on my mum and dad 7
someone or something in order to exist, financially until I was 22.
be healthy, be successful etc
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cohesive adj kəʊˈhiːsɪv connected or related in a reasonable way a cohesive community 7
to form a whole
limitation n ˌlɪməˈteɪʃən, ˌlɪmɪ the act or process of controlling or Any limitation to the king’s power could 7
ˈteɪʃən reducing something be permanent.
speech
intense adj ɪnˈtens having a very strong effect or felt very Young people today are under intense 7
strongly pressure to succeed.
feel at home idm fiːl ət həʊm to feel comfortable in a place or with a I feel really at home at my best friend's 7
person house; I am always welcome there.
hit home idm hɪt həʊm if a remark, criticism etc about you hits Graham didn’t reply, but she could see 7
home, you realize that it is true her words had hit home.
eat out of house idm iːt aʊt əv haʊs ənd to eat a lot of someone's supply of food, I have three teenage boys and I have to 7
and home həʊm so that they have to buy more - used go shopping four times a week -- they eat
humorously me out of house and home.
come home to idm kʌm həʊm tə to realise, in a deep or sudden way As Annabel got onto the train, it came 7
someone ˈsʌmwʌn home to me that I might never see her
again.
feature v ˈfiːtʃə to include or show something as a special The exhibition features paintings by 7
or important part of something, or to be Picasso.
included as an important part
relate to something v phr rɪˈleɪt tə ˌsʌmθɪŋ if two things relate, they are connected in That story is related to something I heard 7
some way on the radio yesterday.
fragment v fræɡˈment to break something, or be broken into a the dangers of fragmenting the Health 7
lot of small separate parts – used to show Service
disapproval
workforce n ˈwɜːkfɔːs all the people who work in a particular Women now represent almost 50% of the 7
industry or company, or are available to workforce.
work in a particular country or area
belonging n if something belongs somewhere, that is It’s important to have a sense of 7
bɪˈlɒŋɪŋ the right place or situation for it belonging .
concept n ˈkɒnsept an idea of how something is, or how the concept of total patient care 7
something should be done
tough adj tʌf difficult to do or deal with It was a tough race. 7
unexpected adj ˌʌnɪkˈspektəd, ˌʌnɪk used to describe something that is The experiment produced some 7
ˈspektɪd surprising because you were not unexpected results.
expecting it
stuff like n phr stʌf laɪk used when talking about different I enjoy skiing and cycling, stuff like that. 7
activities, subjects, or ideas, when you do
not say exactly what these are
take for granted idm teɪk fə ˈɡrɑːntɪd to expect that someone or something will It wasn't until I left home that I realised 7
always be there when you need them and how much I took my family for granted.
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never think how important or useful they
are
option n ˈɒpʃən a choice you can make in a particular There are a number of options available. 7
situation
speech
uproot v ʌpˈruːt to pull a plant and its roots out of the He rejected the idea of uprooting himself 7
ground and moving to America.
kind of phr kaɪnd əv slightly but not exactly, or in some ways I’m kind of glad I didn’t win. 7
grow apart from v phr ɡrəʊ əˈpɑːt frəm if people drift or grow apart, their I've grown apart from my brother -- we 7
relationship slowly becomes less close rarely see or speak to each other.
commute n kəˈmjuːt the journey to work every day My morning commute takes 45 minutes. 7
pointless adj ˈpɔɪntləs worthless or not likely to have any useful Life just seemed pointless to me. 7
result
green issue n phr ɡriːn ˈɪʃuː problems related to the environment I don't know a lot about green issues like 7
climate change and recycling.
investigate v ɪnˈvestəɡeɪt, ɪn to try to find out the truth about The state police are investigating the 7
ˈvestɪɡeɪt something such as a crime, accident, or incident.
scientific problem
breakthrough n ˈbreɪkθruː an important new discovery in something Scientists have made a major 7
you are studying, especially one made breakthrough in the treatment of cancer.
after trying for a long time
pitch (tent) v pɪtʃ (tent) to put up It was the first time we had ever pitched 7
a tent and it took us four hours.
put something phr v pʊt ˈsʌmθɪŋ əˈsaɪd Each month I put something aside so I 7
aside keep to be used later can have a holiday at the end of the year.
cramped adj kræmpt a cramped room, building etc does not The kitchen was small and cramped. 7
have enough space for the people in it
sustainable adj səˈsteɪnəbəl able to continue without causing damage The government should do more to 7
to the environment promote sustainable agriculture.
owl n aʊl a bird with large eyes that hunts at night Did you hear that sound outside? I think 7
it was an owl.
hoot v huːt if a vehicle or ship hoots, it makes a loud The car behind was hooting at me. 7
clear noise as a warning
set up phr v set ʌp to prepare the equipment that will be On my first day at work, everything was 7
needed for an activity so that it is ready set up for me at my desk -- computer,
to be used chair, phone, everything.
shell out phr v ʃel aʊt to pay a lot of money for something, I had to shell out a lot to buy my first 7
especially unwillingly flat.
fair enough phr feə ɪˈnʌf used to say that you agree with ‘I think we should split the bill.’ ‘Fair 7
someone’s suggestion or that something enough.’
seems reasonable
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do one's own thing idm duː wʌnz əʊn θɪŋ please yourself I like living on my own because I can do 7
my own thing and don't have to worry
about upsetting anyone.
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speech
drift v drɪft to move, change, or do something Liam drifted in at 2a.m., not even aware 7
without any plan or purpose of how late it was.
hassle n ˈhæsəl something that is annoying, because it I don’t feel like cooking tonight, it’s too 7
causes problems or is difficult to do much hassle.
slot in phr v slɒt ɪn to fit something or someone into a plan, Stewart has slotted in well. 7
organization etc, or to fit in
a stone's throw idm eɪ ˈstəʊnz θrəʊ My office is only a stone's throw from 7
very close to where I live, so I walk to work.
uproot v ʌpˈruːt to pull a plant and its roots out of the He rejected the idea of uprooting himself 7
ground and moving to America.
on the spur of the idm ɒn ðə spɜː əv ðə suddenly, without any previous planning We would often decide what to play on 7
moment ˈməʊmənt or thought the spur of the moment.
in a rush phr ɪn eɪ rʌʃ I was in such a rush this morning that I 7
put on one brown shoe and one black
a situation in which you need to hurry shoe.
take part in v phr teɪk pɑːt ɪn to be involved in an activity, sport, event I'm taking part in a fun run next 7
etc with other people weekend.
stick to something v phr stɪk tə ˈsʌmθɪŋ to do or keep doing what you said you Have you been sticking to your diet? 7
would do or what you believe in, even
when it is difficult
tick something off phr v tɪk ˈsʌmθɪŋ ɒf to mark the things on a list with a tick to There are still lots of places to tick off my 7
show that they have been dealt with, dream holiday list.
chosen etc
snap (photo) v snæp (fəʊtəʊ) I snapped a photo of my favourite actor 7
to take a photograph when I was in Hollywood.
itinerary n aɪˈtɪnərəri a plan or list of the places you will visit on This is the itinerary for the trip -- it 7
a journey contains all the times and places we will
visit.
endless adj ˈendləs very large in amount, size, or number an endless stream of visitors 7
savour v ˈseɪvə When I came first in the cycling race, I 7
to fully enjoy a time or experience really savoured my victory.
backwash effect v phr ˈbækwɒʃ ɪˈfekt an influence on other areas of your life Learning English has had a backwash 7
effect on my life -- it has helped me in
my career, and I even met my wife at
English classes.
face up to phr v feɪs ʌp tə Now I'm 28, I have to face up to the fact 7
to accept and deal with a difficult fact or that I will never be a professional
problem footballer.
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speech
overcome v ˌəʊvəˈkʌm to successfully control a feeling or He struggled to overcome his shyness. 7
problem that prevents you from achieving
something
reserve n rɪˈzɜːv a quality in someone's character that Vicky is known for her reserve, so don't 7
makes them not like expressing their expect her to say very much.
emotions or talking about their problems
be blown away by phr v bi bləʊn əˈweɪ baɪ to make someone feel very surprised, I was blown away by my parents' gift of a 7
especially about something they like or second-hand car for my 18th birthday.
admire
courteous adj ˈkɜːtiəs polite and showing respect for other The staff are always courteous and 7
people helpful.
set out phr v set aʊt to start a journey, especially a long Kate set out for the house on the other 7
journey side of the bay.
lasting adj ˈlɑːstɪŋ strong enough, well enough planned etc The reforms will bring lasting benefits. 7
to continue for a very long time
virtual world n phr ˈvɜːtʃuəl wɜːld the world made, done, seen etc on the I don't believe the friendships you have in 7
Internet or on a computer, rather than in the virtual world are as strong as the
the real world friendships you have in the real world.
substitute n ˈsʌbstətjuːt, a person or thing that you use instead of You can use margarine as a substitute for 7
ˈsʌbstɪtjuːt the one that you usually have, because butter.
the usual one is not available
in the presence of phr ɪn ðə ˈprezəns əv Our signatures were witnessed in the 7
with someone or in the same place as you presence of a lawyer.
tag along phr v tæɡ əˈlɒŋ to go somewhere with someone, Kate tagged along with mum and Vicky. 7
especially when they have not asked you
to go with them
humdrum adj ˈhʌmdrʌm boring and ordinary, and having no the prisoners’ humdrum routine 7
variety or interest
select adj səˈlekt, sɪˈlekt a select group of people or things is a The party was small and select. 7
small special group that has been chosen
carefully
have time to idm v taɪm tə wʌnˈself have time when you don't have to do When I have time to myself, I have a 7
oneself anything or be anywhere long hot bath.
self reliant adj self rɪˈlaɪənt able to do or decide things by yourself, Although she's only 16, Ellen is very self- 7
without depending on the help or advice reliant.
of other people
soak up phr v səʊk ʌp to enjoy a place by watching it or It was wonderful to soak up the 7
becoming involved in it atmosphere as the sun began to set.
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speech
tricky adj ˈtrɪki something that is difficult to deal with or I can get you tickets for the show but it’ll 7
do because it is complicated and full of be tricky.
problems
fraught with adj phr frɔːt wɪð ˈdeɪndʒə full of danger Travel in the country is fraught with 7
danger danger, including robbery, road accidents
and illness.
stranded adj ˈstrændəd, a person or vehicle that is stranded is Air travellers were left stranded because 7
ˈstrændɪd unable to move from the place where of icy conditions.
they are
sleep rough idm sliːp rʌf to sleep outside with nothing to protect I had no money for a hotel so I had to 7
you from the weather, especially because sleep rough.
you have no home to live in
pack in phr v pæk ɪn to do a lot in a limited period of time, or We packed a lot of sightseeing into two 7
fit a lot of information, ideas etc into a weeks.
limited space
be marooned in the idm bi məˈruːnd ɪn ðə to be left in a place where there are no The car broke down and I had no mobile 7
middle of nowhere ˈmɪdl əv ˈnəʊweə other people and where you cannot reception -- I was marooned in the
escape middle of nowhere.
run the risk of v phr rʌn ðə rɪsk əv to be in a situation where there is a If you drink the local tap water, you run 7
possibility that something bad could the risk of getting ill.
happen to you
take time off pr v teɪk taɪm ɒf take a holiday from a job or studies I can take some time off next month if 7
you want to go on holiday.
fend for oneself v phr fend fə wʌnˈself to look after yourself without needing As soon as I left home, I had to learn to 7
help from other people fend for myself.
kick oneself for idm kɪk wʌnˈself fə used to say that you are annoyed with I kicked myself when I realised I could 7
yourself because you have done have bought the jeans cheaper online.
something silly, made a mistake etc
brighten up phr v ˈbraɪtn ʌp I think a new colour on the walls will 7
to make something lighter or brighter really brighten up this room.
souvenir n ˌsuːvəˈnɪə,ˈsuːvənɪə an object that you buy or keep to remind I bought a model of the Eiffel Tower as a 7
yourself of a special occasion or a place souvenir of Paris.
you have visited
sentimental value n phr ˌsentəˈmentl ˈvæljuː My grandma gave me this toy plane. It's 7
valuable based on or relating to your not worth anything, but it has lots of
feelings rather than on practical reasons sentimental value.
mass-produced adj mæs prəˈdjuːst produced in large numbers using mass-produced furniture 7
machinery, so that each object is the
same and can be sold cheaply
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speech
in common with phr ɪn ˈkɒmən wɪð My husband and I have nothing in 7
to have the same interests, attitudes etc common, but somehow our relationship
as someone else works.
dodgy adj ˈdɒdʒi not working properly or not in good Norton Disk Doctor can perform miracles 8
condition on a dodgy hard disk.
venture n ˈventʃə a new business activity that involves We have started a venture selling second- 8
taking risks hand books in the market.
take off (ie phr v teɪk ɒf (səkˈses) suddenly become a success The business took off immediately and we 8
success) had to employ more staff.
expand v ɪkˈspænd if a company, business etc expands, or if We sell dog food, but we're going to 8
someone expands it, they open new expand into dog beds soon.
shops, factories etc
lucrative adj ˈluːkrətɪv a job or activity that is lucrative lets you He inherited a lucrative business from his 8
earn a lot of money father.
take on a life of its idm teɪk ɒn eɪ laɪf əv ɪts I advertised the cleaning business locally, 8
own əʊn if something takes on a life of its own, it and it took on a life of its own. I had
seems to move or work by itself customers calling me day and night.
tight deadline n phr taɪt ˈdedlaɪn a date or time by which you have to do or I'm a journalist so I'm used to working to 8
complete something, which is difficult to tight deadlines.
achieve
not all plain sailing idm nɒt ɔːl pleɪn ˈseɪlɪŋ Running a café is not plain sailing -- you 8
have to think about ordering food,
not very easy to do or achieve accounts and employing staff.
turn down phr v tɜːn daʊn I turned down this applicant because he 8
to refuse an offer, request, or invitation doesn't have the right experience.
split n splɪt There is a split in our household: my 8
the way in which something, especially husband looks after the garden and I look
money, is shared between several people after the house.
expertise n ˌekspɜːˈtiːz special skills or knowledge in a particular What he’s bringing to the company is 8
subject, that you learn by experience or financial expertise.
training
brand n brænd a type of product made by a particular What brand of detergent do you use? 8
company, that has a particular name or
design
strong point n phr strɒŋ pɔɪnt a positive quality or feature that Rupert's strong points are that he is 8
something or someone has reliable and hard-working.
crack on with phr v kræk ɒn wɪð to continue working hard at something in Stop chatting and start working -- we 8
order to finish it need to crack on with this!
think things phr v θɪŋk θɪŋz θruː to think carefully about the possible I didn't take enough time to think things 8
through results of something through, which is why the business failed.
Advanced Expert 48
speech
start up phr v stɑːt ʌp if you start up a business, company etc, Tax breaks help new companies start up. 8
or it starts up, it begins to exist
disillusioned adj ˌdɪsəˈluːʒənd, ˌdɪsɪ disappointed because you have lost your As she grew older, Laura became 8
ˈluːʒənd belief that someone is good, or that an increasingly disillusioned with politics.
idea is right
tie in with one's idm taɪ ɪn wɪð wʌnz matches one's attitudes and beliefs I'd like to work for an environmentally 8
values ˈvæl juːz friendly company that ties in with my
values.
reckless adj ˈrekləs not caring or worrying about the possible He was accused of causing death by 8
bad or dangerous results of your actions reckless driving.
get up and running idm ɡet ʌp ənd ˈrʌnɪŋ get working It didn't take us long to get the business 8
up and running, but it was a long time
before we made a profit.
bags of energy n phr bæɡz əv ˈenədʒi lots of energy Donna gets up at 6 a.m., goes for a run 8
before work, finishes work at 8 p.m. and
goes to bed at 2 a.m. She's got bags of
energy.
take the plunge idm teɪk ðə plʌndʒ to decide to do something important or We took the plunge and set up our own 8
risky, especially after thinking about it for business.
a long time
take over phr v teɪk ˈəʊvə to take control of something His only reason for investing in the 8
company was to take it over.
messy adj ˈmesi dirty or untidy a messy room 8
launch v lɔːntʃ to start something, usually something big The organization has launched a 8
or important campaign to raise $150,000.
retain v rɪˈteɪn to keep something or continue to have You have the right to retain possession of 8
something the goods.
maximise v to use something in a way that gives you After work I study part-time because I 8
the greatest practical value or the best want to maximise my chances of
ˈmæksəmaɪz results promotion.
set up phr v set ʌp to start a company, organization, They want to set up their own import– 8
committee etc export business.
work-life balance n phr wɜːk laɪf ˈbæləns the ability to give a sensible amount of You can’t have a proper work-life balance 8
time and effort to your work and to your if you’re in the office for 12 hours a day.
life outside work, for example to your
family or to other interests
practise what one idm ˈpræktəs wɒt wʌn As the boss, I think it's important to 8
preaches ˈpriːtʃ ɪz to do the things that you advise other practise what I preach, so I never check
people to do my work email at the weekend.
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speech
double-edged idm ˌdʌbəl ˈedʒd sɔːd Getting a promotion is a double-edged 8
sword something that seems to be good, but sword: you get more money, but you also
that can have a bad effect get more stress and responsibilities.
pop (home) v pɒp (həʊm) to go somewhere quickly, suddenly, or in I only work around the corner so I can 8
a way that you did not expect pop home whenever I like.
tread on someone's idm tred ɒn ˈsʌmwʌnz to offend someone, especially by The new manager is very confident -- she 8
toes təʊz becoming involved in something that they doesn't seem to mind treading on
are responsible for people's toes, does she?
perception n Before I got to know Donald, the 8
the way you think about something and perception I had of him was that he was
pəˈsepʃən your idea of what it is like cold and unfriendly.
client-focused adj ˈklaɪənt ˈfəʊkəst Our customer service staff must be client- 8
focused so that our customers remain
paying careful attention to the customer happy.
cross paths idm krɒs pɑːðz if two people's paths cross, they meet by I first crossed paths with Enid at a 8
chance training seminar.
embark on v ɪmˈbɑːk ɒn to start something, especially something I was 40 before I finally decided to 8
new, difficult, or exciting embark on a career as a writer.
retail n ˈriːteɪl the sale of goods in shops to customers, a manager with twenty years’ experience 8
for their own use and not for selling to in the retail business
anyone else
stumble across phr v ˈstʌmbəl əˈkrɒs They stumbled across the idea when they 8
to find or discover something by chance realised the product they needed did not
and unexpectedly exist.
spill over phr v spɪl ˈəʊvə if a problem or bad situation spills over, it The conflict might spill over into 8
spreads and begins to affect other places, neighbouring towns.
people etc
run something past idm rʌn ˈsʌmθɪŋ pɑːst to tell someone something so that they I need a second opinion -- can I just run 8
someone ˈsʌmwʌn can give you their opinion this idea past you?
launch v lɔːntʃ to start something, usually something big The organization has launched a 8
or important campaign to raise $150,000.
take a gamble idm teɪk eɪ ˈɡæmbəl I'm not brave enough to take a gamble so 8
start an action or plan that involves a risk I'm going to continue working for
but that you hope will succeed someone else.
leap at (an idea) v liːp ət (ən aɪˈdɪə) When my brother asked me if I wanted to 8
to accept an opportunity very eagerly work for him, I leapt at the idea.
be measured (in a v bi ˈmeʒəd (ɪn eɪ rɪ if you do something in a measured way, I don't like to rush things, I am very 8
reply) ˈplaɪ) you do it in a careful and controlled way, measured when someone asks my
not in an excited or sudden way opinion.
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speech
recipe for disaster idm ˈresəpi fə dɪˈzɑːstə Nell and Zara are disorganised and argue 8
all the time, so it was recipe for disaster
very likely to end badly when they started a business.
play it safe idm pleɪ ɪt seɪf to behave in a particular way in a In the first year of our business, I think 8
situation, in order to achieve the result or we should play it safe rather than
effect that you want spending lots of money.
raise funds v phr reɪz fʌndz to collect money that you can use to do a If we need to raise funds, we can ask the 8
particular job or help people bank for a loan.
break into (a phr v breɪk ˈɪntə (eɪ to become involved in a new job or Lots of companies want to break into the 8
market) ˈmɑːkɪt) business activity China market because it's so big.
takeover n ˈteɪkˌəʊvə when one company takes control of Thornbury has announced a takeover bid 8
another by buying more than half its of a regional TV company.
shares
shareholder n ˈʃeəˌhəʊldə someone who owns shares in a company Shareholders have been told to expect an 8
or business even lower result next year.
feedback n ˈfiːdbæk advice, criticism etc about how successful How can I provide feedback without 8
or useful something is making someone angry?
turnover n ˈtɜːnˌəʊvə the amount of business done during a The illicit drugs industry has an annual 8
particular period turnover of some £200 billion.
downturn n ˈdaʊntɜːn a period or process in which business America’s current economic downturn 8
activity, production etc is reduced and
conditions become worse
get down to phr v ɡet daʊn tə to start doing something that is difficult or If we're all agreed on the plan, let's get 8
(business) (ˈbɪznəs) needs a lot of time or energy down to business.
put (something) phr v pʊt (sʌmθɪŋ) daʊn to think that something is caused by I put the company's success down to your 8
down to tə something else hard work.
option n ˈɒpʃən a choice you can make in a particular There are a number of options available. 8
situation
facilitate v fəˈsɪləteɪt, fə to make it easier for a process or activity Computers can be used to facilitate 8
ˈsɪlɪteɪt to happen language learning.
in recognition of phr ɪn ˌrekəɡˈnɪʃən əv public respect and thanks for someone's We would like to pay you a bonus in 8
work or achievements recognition of your hard work.
high-powered adj ˌhaɪ ˈpaʊ‿əd My dream is to be a high-powered 8
very important or successful politician, maybe even prime minister.
associate v phr əˈsəʊʃieɪt ˈsʌmθɪŋ to make a connection in your mind Fast food isn't often associated with good 8
something with wɪð between one thing or person and another health.
sceptical adj ˈskeptɪkəl tending to disagree with what other I’m extremely sceptical about what I read 8
people tell you in the press.
unconvinced adj ˌʌnkənˈvɪnst not persuaded that something is true or I remain unconvinced that the idea will 8
good work.
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see what the fuss idm siː wɒt ðə fʌs wəz ə understand the attention or excitement Now I have a smart phone, I can see 8
was about ˈbaʊt something/someone is creating what all the fuss is about.
get hooked v ɡet hʊkt if you get hooked on something, you I started running when I was 17 and I got 8
enjoy it very much and you want to do it hooked -- I run every day.
as often as possible
do well out of phr v duː wel aʊt əv to be successful because of something, My cousin has done very well out of his 8
something ˈsʌmθɪŋ especially in work or business business and has just bought his first car.
make a small idm meɪk eɪ smɔːl I've made a small fortune out of selling 8
fortune out of ˈfɔːtʃən aʊt əv my CDs and I have enough money to buy
earn a large amount of money a house.
burnt out adj bɜːnt aʊt to work so hard over a period of time that After five years working 12 hours a day, 6 8
you become unable to continue working days a week, I was completely burnt out.
because you are tired, ill, or unable to
think of any new ideas
low-key adj ˌləʊ ˈkiː not intended to attract a lot of attention They want the funeral to be as low-key as 8
to an event, subject, or thing possible.
worthwhile adj ˌwɜːθˈwaɪl if something is worthwhile, it is important He wanted to do a worthwhile job. 8
or useful, or you gain something from it
mindset n ˈmaɪndset someone’s general attitude, and the way The company seems to have a very old- 8
in which they think about things and fashioned mindset.
make decisions
logical step n phr ˈlɒdʒəkəl step sensible or practical stage in a process Our office is very full so the next logical 8
step is to move to somewhere bigger.
meditation n ˌmedəˈteɪʃən, ˌmedɪ the practice of emptying your mind of Yoga involves breathing exercises, 8
ˈteɪʃən thoughts and feelings, in order to relax stretching and meditation.
completely or for religious reasons
philanthropic adj ˌfɪlənˈθrɒpɪk a philanthropic person or institution gives Working as a volunteer is not just 8
money and help to people who are poor philanthropic, I also get lots of useful
or in trouble experience.
from someone's idm frəm ˌsʌmwʌnz pə a person's way of thinking about You may think you're being logical, but 8
perspective ˈspektɪv something, especially one which is from my perspective you're being unkind.
influenced by the type of person you are
or by your experiences
roll out something phr v rəʊl aʊt ˈsʌmθɪŋ tə The new sandwich has been a success 8
to to make a new product available for locally so now we're rolling it to the
people to buy or use national market.
turn up phr v tɜːn ʌp to arrive at a place, especially in a way Please do not turn up late the meeting -- 8
that is unexpected you won't be allowed in.
intuitive adj ɪnˈtjuːətɪv, ɪn an intuitive idea is based on a feeling He seemed to have an intuitive 8
ˈtjuːɪtɪv rather than on knowledge or facts awareness of how I felt.
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incorporate v ɪnˈkɔːpəreɪt to include something as part of a group, We’ve incorporated many 8
system, plan etc environmentally friendly features into the
design of the building.
cut-throat adj ˈkʌtθrəʊt a cut-throat activity or business involves Cut-throat competition is keeping prices 8
people competing with each other in an low.
unpleasant way
prevail v prɪˈveɪl if a belief, custom, situation etc prevails, the economic conditions which prevail in 8
it exists among a group of people at a England and Wales
certain time
best of both worlds idm best əv bəʊθ wɜːldz I work part-time and have the best of 8
a situation in which you have the both worlds -- I can spent time with my
advantages of two different things without young children, but I can also continue in
any of the disadvantages my career.
hunched adj hʌntʃt to bend down and forwards so that your a hunched figure sitting by the fire 8
back forms a curve
oblivious adj əˈblɪviəs not knowing about or not noticing He seemed oblivious to the fact that he 8
something that is happening around you had hurt her.
under no phr ˈʌndə nəʊ used to emphasize that something must Under no circumstances can you use 8
circumstance ˈsɜːkəmstæns definitely not happen company computers for personal emails.
competitive adj kəmˈpetətɪv, kəm determined or trying very hard to be Some US industries are not as 8
ˈpetɪtɪv more successful than other people or competitive as they have been in the
businesses past.
tucked away adj tʌkt əˈweɪ I always keep some painkillers tucked 8
to store something, especially money, in away in my handbag, in case I get a
a safe place headache.
only a stone's idm ˈəʊnli eɪ stəʊnz The park is only a stone's throw from my 8
throw θrəʊ very close to something house, so I go running there every day.
nondescript adj ˈnɒndəˌskrɪpt, someone or something that is nondescript a rather nondescript suburban house 8
ˈnɒndɪˌskrɪpt looks very ordinary and is not at all
interesting or unusual
stumble v ˈstʌmbəl to hit your foot against something or put In her hurry, she stumbled and spilled the 8
your foot down awkwardly while you are milk all over the floor.
walking or running, so that you almost fall
fumble about phr v ˈfʌmbəl əˈbaʊt to try to hold, move, or find something He did a lot of fumbling about, but I'm 8
with your hands in an awkward way not sure he fixed the cooker.
good-natured adj ɡʊd ˈneɪtʃəd naturally kind and helpful and not easily This is a very good-natured dog. He just 8
made angry wants to be friends with everyone.
intriguing adj ɪnˈtriːɡɪŋ something that is intriguing is very The magazine carries an intriguing 8
interesting because it is strange, mixture of high fashion, gossip and
mysterious, or unexpected racing.
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a wealth of phr eɪ welθ əv When I went to Italy for the first time, I 8
a lot of something useful or good discovered a wealth of delicious food.
steep adj stiːp steep prices, charges etc are unusually How much? That's a bit steep, isn't it? 8
expensive
by any stretch of idm baɪ ˈeni stretʃ əv ðə used to emphasize that a negative The bags weren't very cheap, by any 8
the imagination ɪˌmædʒəˈneɪʃən statement is true stretch of the imagination.
mediocre adj ˌmiːdiˈəʊkə not very good I thought the book was pretty mediocre. 8
deafening adj ˈdefənɪŋ very loud a deafening roar 8
exorbitant adj ɪɡˈzɔːbətənt, ɪɡ an exorbitant price, amount of money etc exorbitant rates of interest 8
ˈzɔːbɪtənt is much higher than it should be
cramped adj kræmpt a cramped room, building etc does not The kitchen was small and cramped. 8
have enough space for the people in it
offhand adj ˌɒfˈhænd not very friendly towards someone when She said you were a bit offhand with her 8
you are talking to them this afternoon.
quirky adj ˈkwɜːki unusual, especially in an interesting way I like his quirky sense of humour. 8
nibble v ˈnɪbəl to eat small amounts of food by taking He nibbled the biscuit cautiously. 8
very small bites
insubstantial adj ˌɪnsəbˈstænʃəl not solid, large, strong, or definite The evidence seemed very insubstantial. 8
packed out adj pækt aʊt a cinema, restaurant etc that is packed I don't understand why the café is always 8
out is completely full of people packed out because the food is terrible.
feel you don't idm fiːl jə dəʊnt bɪˈlɒŋ if you feel you belong in a place or For the first couple of weeks in my new 8
belong situation, you feel happy and comfortable job, I felt I didn't belong.
in it, because you have the same interests
and ideas as other people
despise v dɪˈspaɪz to dislike and have a low opinion of She despised her neighbours. 8
get rid of phr v ɡet rɪd əv to throw away or destroy something you When I left home, my mum got rid of all 8
do not want any more my old toys without telling me.
basics pl n ˈbeɪsɪks the most important and necessary facts the basics of French grammar 8
about something, from which other
possibilities and ideas may develop
make ends meet idm meɪk endz miːt to have only just enough money to buy When Mike lost his job, we could barely 8
the things you need make ends meet.
uneasy adj ʌnˈiːzi worried or slightly afraid because you Ninety percent of those questioned felt 8
think that something bad might happen uneasy about nuclear power.
transform v to completely change the appearance, A new haircut and you've been 8
form, or character of something or transformed from a girl into a woman!
someone, especially in a way that
trænsˈfɔːm improves it
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loan n ləʊn an amount of money that you borrow a loan of £60,000 8
from a bank etc
inherit v ɪnˈherət, ɪnˈherɪt to receive money, property etc from He inherited a fortune from his 8
someone after they have died grandmother.
trust fund n phr trʌst fʌnd money belonging to someone that is I wish my parents had set up a trust fund 8
controlled for them by a trustee for me!
outsider n aʊtˈsaɪdə someone who is not accepted as a I’m an outsider, the only foreign woman 8
member of a particular social group in the group.
on a grant phr ɒn eɪ ɡrɑːnt receive an amount of money given, The majority of the students on my 8
especially by the government, for a course are on a grant because their
particular purpose parents aren't rich.
work ethic n phr wɜːk ˈeθɪk a belief in the moral value and importance They instilled the work ethic into their 8
of work children.
laze around phr v leɪz əˈraʊnd On weekends I like to just laze around 8
to relax and enjoy yourself in a lazy way and watch TV.
accomplish v əˈkʌmplɪʃ to succeed in doing something, especially We have accomplished all we set out to 8
after trying very hard do.
great thrill n phr ɡreɪt θrɪl a sudden strong feeling of excitement and Mountain biking gives me a great thrill; I 8
pleasure, or the thing that makes you feel do it every weekend.
this
posh adj pɒʃ a posh restaurant, hotel, car etc is a posh private school 8
expensive and looks as if it is used or
owned by rich people
cost the earth idm kɒst ðə ɜːθ Their new car cost the earth; I don't 8
to cost etc a very large amount of money know how they can afford it.
inundate v ˈɪnəndeɪt to receive so much of something that you After the broadcast, we were inundated 8
cannot easily deal with it all with requests for more information.
beg v beɡ to ask for something in an anxious or She begged and pleaded with them until 8
urgent way, because you want it very they finally agreed.
much
run out phr v rʌn aʊt to use all of something and not have any I’ve got money you can borrow if you run 8
more left out.
burgle v ˈbɜːɡəl to go into a building and steal things We’ve been burgled three times. 8
reassuring adj ˌriːəˈʃʊərɪŋ making you feel less worried or frightened a reassuring smile 8
come into (money) phr v kʌm ɪntə ˈmʌni to receive money, land, or property from After her granddad died, Yolanda came 8
someone after they have died into a lot of money.
handle v ˈhændl I can't really handle the stress so I'm 8
to not become upset in a difficult situation going to leave my job.
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so-called adj ˌsəʊ ˈkɔːld used to describe someone or something The so-called experts couldn’t tell us what 8
that has been given a name that you was wrong.
think is wrong
money to burn idm ˈmʌni tə bɜːn to have more money than you need, so They paid more than a million euros for a 8
that you spend it on unnecessary things car? They must have money to burn!
scrape by phr v skreɪp baɪ to have just enough money to live We can scrape by, thanks to what we 8
grow ourselves.
live beyond one's idm lɪv bɪˈjɒnd wʌnz spend more money than you can afford If you live beyond your means, you'll get 8
means miːnz into debt.
put one's money idm pʊt wʌnz ˈmʌni weə Why don't you put your money where 8
where one's mouth wʌnz maʊθ ɪz to show by your actions that you really your mouth is and make a donation to
is believe what you say charity?
spendthrift n ˈspendˌθrɪft someone who spends money carelessly, Ben spent all his birthday money in one 8
even when they do not have a lot of it hour, he's such as spendthrift.
on impulse phr ɒn ˈɪmpʌls because of a sudden strong desire to do I never buy anything on impulse because 8
something without thinking about I like to research everything I buy.
whether it is a sensible thing to do
shop around phr v ʃɒp əˈraʊnd to compare the price and quality of Take time to shop around for the best 8
different things before you decide which deal.
to buy
window shopping idm ˈwɪndəʊ ˌʃɒpɪŋ the activity of looking at goods in shop Window shopping is great because it 8
windows without intending to buy them doesn't cost you anything.
shopping spree idm ˈʃɒpɪŋ spriː a short period of time when you do a lot I got some money for Christmas so I 8
of shopping decided to go on a shopping spree.
make ends meet idm meɪk endz miːt to have only just enough money to buy When Mike lost his job, we could barely 8
the things you need make ends meet.
hard times n phr hɑːd taɪmz a situation or time that is hard is one in We're going through hard times at the 8
which you have a lot of problems, moment because my husband lost his
especially when you do not have enough job.
money
chip in phr v tʃɪp ɪn if each person in a group chips in, they If everyone in the class chips in, we can 8
each give a small amount of money so get the teacher a really nice present.
that they can buy something together
donor n ˈdəʊnə a person, group etc that gives something, We urgently need more assistance from 8
especially money, to help an organization donor countries (=countries that give
or country money, food etc to help in poor countries
or disaster areas).
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dip into phr v dɪp ˈɪntə I didn't want to dip into my savings, but I 8
to use some of an amount of money that crashed the car and it needs to be
you have repaired.
raise money v phr reɪz ˈmʌni to collect money that you can use to do a We're going to sell cakes to raise money 8
particular job or help people for the school's music room.
subsidy n ˈsʌbsədi, ˈsʌbsɪdi money that is paid by a government or international disagreement over trade 8
organization to make prices lower, reduce subsidies
the cost of producing goods etc
repetitive adj rɪˈpetətɪv, rɪˈpetɪtɪv done many times in the same way, and repetitive tasks like washing and ironing 8
boring
predictable adj prɪˈdɪktəbəl if something or someone is predictable, The snow had a predictable effect on 8
you know what will happen or what they traffic.
will do – sometimes used to show
disapproval
witty adj ˈwɪti using words in a clever and amusing way witty remarks 8
excruciatingly adv in an extremely painful way When I broke my arm it was 8
ɪkˈskruːʃieɪtɪŋli excruciatingly painful.
unconvincing adj ˌʌnkənˈvɪnsɪŋ failing to make you believe that an unconvincing smile 8
something is true or real
thought-provoking adj ˈθɔːt prə ˌvəʊk ɪŋ making people think seriously about a a thought-provoking article 8
particular subject
moving adj ˈmuːvɪŋ making you feel strong emotions, Bayman’s book about his illness is deeply 8
especially sadness or sympathy moving.
tedious adj ˈtiːdiəs something that is tedious continues for a The work was tiring and tedious. 8
long time and is not interesting
gripping adj ˈɡrɪpɪŋ a gripping film, story etc is very exciting Collins’ gripping detective novel 8
and interesting
overrated adj ˌəʊvəˈreɪtəd, ˌəʊvə not as good or important as some people a vastly overrated film 8
ˈreɪtɪd think or say
implausible adj ɪmˈplɔːzəbəl, ɪm difficult to believe and therefore unlikely Margaret found his excuse somewhat 8
ˈplɔːzɪbəl to be true implausible.
far-fetched adj fɑː fetʃt extremely unlikely to be true or to happen All this may sound a bit far-fetched, but 8
companies are already developing
‘intelligent’ homes.
hilarious adj hɪˈleəriəs extremely funny a hilarious story 8
compelling adj kəmˈpelɪŋ an argument etc that makes you feel Lucy had no compelling reason to go into 8
certain that something is true or that you town.
must do something about it
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get bogged down idm ɡet bɒɡd daʊn if a process or plan becomes bogged Before we get bogged down in details, do 8
down, it is delayed so that no progress is you generally agree with my idea?
made
letdown n letdaʊn an event, performance etc that is not as When I finally saw the film it was a 8
good as you expected it to be letdown and I was disappointed.
go off at a tangent idm ɡəʊ ɒf ət eɪ to suddenly start thinking or talking about Let’s stay with the topic and not go off at 8
ˈtændʒənt a subject that is only slightly related, or a tangent.
not related at all, to the original subject
spine-chilling adj ˈspaɪn ˌtʃɪl ɪŋ a spine-chilling story or film is very That film is spine-chilling, I couldn't sleep 8
frightening in a way that people enjoy after I had watched it.
brisk adj brɪsk quick and full of energy a brisk walk 8
characterisation n ˌkærəktəraɪˈzeɪʃən, the way in which a writer makes a person Pilcher’s books have humour, good 8
ˌkærɪktəraɪˈzeɪʃən in a book, film, or play seem like a real characterization, and lively dialogue.
person
vanish v ˈvænɪʃ to disappear suddenly, especially in a way My keys were here a minute ago but now 9
that cannot be easily explained they’ve vanished.
handful n ˈhændfʊl Only a handful of the children misbehave 9
a very small number of people or things -- the rest are very good.
dot n dɒt a small round mark or spot a pattern of dots 9
horizon n həˈraɪzən the line far away where the land or sea We could see a ship on the horizon. 9
seems to meet the sky
reflect v rɪˈflekt if a person or a thing is reflected in a She could see her face reflected in the 9
mirror, glass, or water, you can see an car’s windshield.
image of the person or thing on the
surface of the mirror, glass, or water
first-hand n phr ˌfɜːstˈhænd ˈnɒlɪdʒ experience etc that has been learned or I don't have first-hand knowledge of 9
knowledge gained by doing something yourself or by living abroad, but I imagine it would be
talking to someone yourself exciting.
orbit v ˈɔːbət, ˈɔːbɪt to travel in a curved path around a much The satellite orbits the Earth every 48 9
larger object such as the Earth, the Sun hours.
etc
fraction n ˈfrækʃən a very small amount of something I got these shoes at a fraction of the 9
original price.
stint n stɪnt a period of time spent doing a particular Mark did a two-year stint in the army. 9
job or activity
veteran n ˈvetərən someone who has been a soldier, sailor a veteran of the Second World War 9
etc in a war
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freefall n The moment when you're in freefall, 9
the movement of someone or something before the parachute opens, must be very
ˌfriːˈfɔːl through the air without engine power exciting.
footage n This old footage is from the day I was 9
ˈfʊtɪdʒ cinema film showing a particular event christened.
float v fləʊt if something floats, it moves slowly I love watching snowflakes float slowly 9
through the air or stays up in the air down to earth.
gravity n ˈɡrævəti, ˈɡrævɪti the force that causes something to fall to the force of gravity 9
the ground or to be attracted to another
planet
altitude n ˈæltətjuːd, ˈæltɪtjuːd the height of an object or place above the We’re flying at an altitude of 40,000 feet. 9
sea
cruise v kruːz to drive a car slowly through a place with My brother thinks he's so cool, cruising 9
no particular purpose around town on his motorbike.
breakneck speed n phr ˈbreɪknek spiːd Please don't drive at such as breakneck 9
extremely and often dangerously fast speed -- you'll have an accident!
dock v dɒk if a ship docks, or if the captain docks it, We docked at Rangoon the next morning. 9
it sails into a dock so that it can unload
perfect v pəˈfekt to make something as good as you are Mock trials help students perfect their 9
able to legal skills.
cautious adj ˈkɔːʃəs careful to avoid danger or risks a cautious driver 9
price tag n phr praɪs tæɡ a piece of paper with a price on it that is It’s difficult to put a price tag on such a 9
attached to something in a shop project (=say how much it costs).
equalise v ˈiːkwəlaɪz to make two or more things the same in We have tried to equalize the workload 9
size, value, amount etc between the different teachers.
hatch n hætʃ a small hole in the wall or floor between There is a hatch at the front where the 9
two rooms, or the door that covers it chickens come out and go in.
chaos n ˈkeɪ-ɒs a situation in which everything is The country was plunged into economic 9
happening in a confused way and nothing chaos.
is organized or arranged in order
subtle art n phr ˈsʌtl ɑːt a method that is a skilful and clever There is a subtle art to creating a garden 9
-- you need some flowers, but also grass,
trees and somewhere to sit.
trail n treɪl a long line or a series of marks that have Can't you take your shoes off? Look at 9
been left by someone or something this trail of muddy footsteps!
like a bull in a idm laɪk eɪ bʊl ɪn eɪ if you are like a bull in a china shop, you Slow down and be more careful -- you're 9
china shop ˈtʃaɪnə ʃɒp keep knocking things over, dropping like a bull in a china shop.
things, breaking things etc
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close quarters n phr kləʊz ˈkwɔːtəz if something happens or is done at close Sailors on submarines have to live in very 9
quarters, it happens inside a small space close quarters.
or is done from a short distance away
swollen adj ˈswəʊlən a part of your body that is swollen is swollen glands 9
bigger than usual, especially because you
are ill or injured
erase v ɪˈreɪz to get rid of something so that it has gone With good make-up, you can erase spots 9
completely and no longer exists and fine lines.
wrinkle n ˈrɪŋkəl wrinkles are lines on your face and skin Her face was a mass of wrinkles. 9
that you get when you are old
play havoc with v phr pleɪ ˈhævək wɪð create a situation in which there is a lot of Working at night is playing havoc with my 9
damage or a lack of order, especially so sleep.
that it is difficult for something to
continue in the normal way
assault n əˈsɔːlt attack or shock, sometimes in a positive It was a real assault on the senses: a 9
way beautiful view, peaceful music and
delicious food.
continual adj kənˈtɪnjuəl continuing for a long time without five weeks of continual rain 9
stopping
lap (round) n læp (raʊnd) Penny runs two laps around the park 9
a single journey around a race track every morning.
impose v ɪmˈpəʊz if someone in authority imposes a rule, The court can impose a fine. 9
punishment, tax etc, they force people to
accept it
be up and about idm bi ʌp ənd əˈbaʊt be fit and active My dad was up and about just two days 9
after his operation.
glide v ɡlaɪd to move smoothly and quietly, as if couples gliding over the dance floor 9
without effort
anchor v to lower the anchor on a ship or boat to The boat is anchored to the wall with this 9
ˈæŋkɚ hold it in one place chain.
hulk n hʌlk a large heavy person or thing a hulk of a man 9
interconnecting v ˌɪntəkəˈnektɪŋ if two systems, places etc are To put up the tent you need to put these 9
interconnected, or if they interconnect, interconnecting rods together.
they are joined together
snuggle down phr v ˈsnʌɡəl daʊn The dog snuggled down in its bed and fell 9
to settle into a warm comfortable position asleep.
exceptional adj ɪkˈsepʃənəl unusually good an exceptional student 9
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hurtle v ˈhɜːtl if something, especially something big or All of a sudden, a car came hurtling round 9
heavy, hurtles somewhere, it moves or the corner.
falls very fast
crash-land n ˈkræʃ lænd an occasion when a pilot has to bring a The plane crash-landed next to the 9
plane down to the ground in a sudden and runway, and no one was hurt.
dangerous way because the plane has a
problem
weightless adj ˈweɪtləs something that is weightless seems to A feather is almost weightless. 9
have no weight, especially when it is
floating in space or water
gravity n ˈɡrævəti, ˈɡrævɪti the force that causes something to fall to the force of gravity 9
the ground or to be attracted to another
planet
exert oneself v ɪɡˈzɜːt wʌnˈself to work very hard and use a lot of Why don't you talk to the boss? You'll be 9
physical or mental energy able to expert more influence on him.
hygiene n ˈhaɪdʒiːn the practice of keeping yourself and the the importance of personal hygiene 9
things around you clean in order to
prevent diseases
once in a blue idm wʌns ɪn eɪ bluː very rarely It only happens like this once in a blue 9
moon muːn moon.
spaced out adj speɪst aʊt not fully conscious of what is happening After the operation I had to take a lot of 9
around you, especially because you are pills and I felt spaced out.
extremely tired or have taken drugs
live on another idm lɪv ɒn əˈnʌðə used humorously to say that someone's When I hear her crazy ideas, I sometimes 9
planet ˈplænət ideas are not at all practical or sensible think she's living on another planet.
not rocket science idm nɒt ˈrɒkət ˈsaɪəns used to say that something is not difficult It's not rocket science - you put the pasta 9
to do or understand in boiling water and wait for it to cook.
rocket v ˈrɒkət, ˈrɒkɪt if a price or amount rockets, it increases Interest rates rocketed up. 9
quickly and suddenly
glance v ɡlɑːns to quickly look at someone or something The man glanced nervously at his watch. 9
glimpse v ɡlɪmps to see someone or something for a I glimpsed a figure at the window. 9
moment without getting a complete view
of them
scan v skæn I just quickly scanned the article so I 9
to read something quickly didn't read every word.
like a fish out of idm laɪk eɪ fɪʃ aʊt əv to feel uncomfortable because you feel Everyone in my class speaks Spanish 9
water ˈwɔːtə you do not belong in a place or situation except me, I feel like a fish out of water.
like a red rag to a idm laɪk eɪ red ræɡ tə eɪ very likely to make someone angry or Just mentioning his ex-wife’s name was 9
bʊl upset like a red rag to a bull.
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bull
speech
like a dog with a idm laɪk eɪ dɒɡ wɪð eɪ extremely stubborn and determined I never give up when I believe something 9
bone bəʊn is right -- I'm like a dog with a bone.
like two peas in a idm laɪk tuː piːz ɪn eɪ exactly the same in appearance, Your sons look so alike, they're like two 9
pod pɒd behaviour etc peas in a pod.
like water off a idm laɪk ˈwɔːtə ɒf eɪ if criticism, warnings etc are like water off I don't care if you shout at me, it's like 9
duck's back dʌks bæk a duck's back, they have no effect on the water off a duck's back.
person you are saying them to
identical adj aɪˈdentɪkəl exactly the same, or very similar four identical houses 9
unbearable adj ʌnˈbeərəbəl too unpleasant, painful, or annoying to The pain was almost unbearable. 9
deal with
regardless of phr rɪˈɡɑːdləs əv without being affected or influenced by I'm not going to give you any more 9
something money, regardless of how nicely you ask.
(idea) get off the idm (aɪˈdɪə) ɡet ɒf ðə Our building project got off the ground 9
ground ɡraʊnd to start to be successful last week when the builders arrived.
break the mould idm breɪk ðə məʊld to change a situation completely, by an attempt to break the mould of British 9
doing something that has not been done politics
before
grab v ɡræb o take an opportunity, accept an You have to grab every opportunity life 9
invitation etc immediately: gives you.
in control phr ɪn kənˈtrəʊl the state of making someone or I like feeling in control, I don't like 9
something do what you want or making uncertainty.
something happen in the way you want
disabled adj dɪsˈeɪbəld someone who is disabled cannot use a a support group for parents of disabled 9
part of their body properly, or cannot children
learn easily
sector n ˈsektə a part of an area of activity, especially of the agricultural sector of the economy 9
business, trade etc
nozzle n ˈnɒzəl a part that is fitted to the end of a hose, You can make patterns on the cake using 9
pipe etc to direct and control the stream an icing bag and a nozzle.
of liquid or gas pouring out
labour-saving n phr ˈleɪbə ˈseɪvɪŋ dɪ a machine that makes it easier for you to The dishwasher is my favourite labour- 9
device ˈvaɪs do a particular job saving device.
redundant adj rɪˈdʌndənt not necessary because something else One day, I think cars will become 9
means or does the same thing redundant and we'll fly everywhere.
in equal measure phr ɪn ˈiːkwəl ˈmeʒə used when the amount of one thing is the I was angry and embarrassed in equal 9
same as the amount of another thing measure.
practicality n ˌpræktɪˈkæləti, how suitable something is, or whether it The main advantage of this self-cleaning 9
ˌpræktɪˈkælɪti will work oven is its practicality.
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speech
smoothly adv ˈsmuːðli if a planned event, piece of work etc goes I hope things go smoothly for you in your 9
smoothly, there are no problems to spoil new job.
it
ensure v ɪnˈʃʊə to make certain that something will facilities to ensure the safety of cyclists 9
happen properly
bow v baʊ to bend the top part of your body forward She bowed and left the stage. 9
in order to show respect for someone
important, or as a way of thanking an
audience
unconventional adj ˌʌnkənˈvenʃənəl very different from the way people usually unconventional political views 9
behave, think, dress etc
ashes n ˈæʃ ɪz the soft grey powder that remains after Be careful - those ashes could still be hot. 9
something has been burned
encased adj Her certificate is encased in glass and a 9
ɪnˈkeɪst covered or surrounded completely frame, hung on the wall.
out of the question phr aʊt əv ðə ˈkwestʃən if something is out of the question, it is It's out of the question - I refuse to pay 9
definitely not possible or not allowed you that much.
precious adj ˈpreʃəs something that is precious is valuable and We cannot afford to waste precious time. 9
important and should not be wasted or
used without care
irritate v ˈɪrəteɪt, ˈɪrɪteɪt to make someone feel annoyed or It really irritates me when he doesn’t help 9
impatient, especially by doing something around the house.
many times or for a long period of time
surly adj ˈsɜːli bad-tempered and unfriendly a surly teenager 9
growth n ɡrəʊθ an increase in amount, number, or size We’ve seen an enormous growth in the 9
number of businesses using the Web.
accepted wisdom n phr əkˈseptəd ˈwɪzdəm The accepted wisdom is that young 9
a belief or opinion that most people have children need a nap in the afternoon.
lobe n ləʊb a round part of an organ in your body, The frontal lobes of the brain help us 9
especially in your brain or lungs make decisions.
impulse n ˈɪmpʌls a sudden strong desire to do something a sudden impulse to laugh 9
without thinking about whether it is a
sensible thing to do
nerve cell n phr nɜːv sel a neuron Nerve cells pass important messages to 9
the brain.
coat with v kəʊt wɪð to cover something with a thin layer of The walls are coated with a red paint. 9
something else
fatty adj ˈfæti containing a lot of fat fatty foods 9
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speech
substance n ˈsʌbstəns a particular type of solid, liquid, or gas The leaves were covered with a strange 9
sticky substance.
unacceptable adj ˌʌnəkˈseptəbəl something that is unacceptable is so I found her attitude totally unacceptable. 9
wrong or bad that you think it should not
be allowed
bring someone up phr v brɪŋ ˈsʌmwʌn ʌp to look after and influence a child until he I was brought up my aunt and uncle. 9
or she is grown up
apprenticeship n əˈprentəsʃɪp, ə the job of being an apprentice, or the He’s serving an apprenticeship as a 9
ˈprentɪsʃɪp period of time in which you are an printer.
apprentice
hang out with phr v hæŋ aʊt wɪð I don't really hang out with my 9
to spend a lot of time in a particular place schoolfriends anymore; I've made new
or with particular people friends.
restrain v rɪˈstreɪn to stop someone from doing something, I had to restrain her from running out 9
often by using physical force into the street.
life skill n phr laɪf skɪl an ability to do something well, which you Knowing how to cook is a very important 9
need for everyday life life skill.
erratic adj ɪˈrætɪk something that is erratic does not follow His breathing was becoming erratic. 9
any pattern or plan but happens in a way
that is not regular
innate adj ˌɪˈneɪt an innate quality or ability is something Children have an innate ability to learn 9
you are born with language.
hold out against phr v həʊld aʊt əˈɡenst resist I managed to hold out against the 9
temptation of eating chocolate.
is
appealing adj əˈpiːlɪŋ attractive or interesting The city offers an appealing combination 9
of sporting and cultural events.
mess around phr v mes əˈraʊnd to spend time lazily, doing things slowly He spent his vacation messing around on 9
and in a way that is not planned the farm.
depends on it
programme v ˈprəʊɡræm to set a machine to operate in a particular I’ve programmed the video to come on at 9
way ten.
biological clock n phr ˌbaɪəˈlɒdʒɪkəl klɒk the system in plants and animals that career women who hear the biological 9
controls when they sleep, eat, produce clock ticking
babies etc
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speech
function v ˈfʌŋkʃən to work in the correct or intended way Flights in and out of Taipei are functioning 9
normally again.
out of synch phr aʊt əv sɪŋk if things are out of sync, they are not The sound on the TV is out of synch with 9
working well together at exactly the same the picture.
time and speed
catch up on phr v kætʃ ʌp ɒn to do what needs to be done because you I always try to catch up on my reading 9
have not been able to do it until now when I go on holiday.
radical adj ˈrædɪkəl a radical change or difference is very big They are proposing radical changes to the 9
and important way the company is run.
sponge n spʌndʒ a piece of a soft natural or artificial You can clear up the water you spilt with 9
substance full of small holes, which can that sponge.
suck up liquid and is used for washing
become addicted to v phr bɪˈkʌm əˈdɪktəd tə liking something so much that you do not I'm worried that I've become addicted to 9
want to stop doing it or having it internet shopping.
harmful adj ˈhɑːmfəl causing harm the harmful effects of smoking 9
fast-paced adj fɑːst peɪst moving very fast When I moved to the city from the 9
countryside, I noticed how fast-paced life
was.
stimulation n ˌstɪmjəˈleɪʃən, to encourage or help an activity to begin Children need variety and stimulation. 9
ˌstɪmjʊˈleɪʃən or develop further
overload n ˈəʊvələʊd to put too many things or people on or the modern day information overload 9
into something
alter v ˈɔːltə to change, or to make someone or Her face hadn’t altered much over the 9
something change years.
mammal n ˈmæməl a type of animal that drinks milk from its Even though it is huge and lives in the 9
mother’s body when it is young. Humans, sea, the blue whale is a mammal.
dogs, and whales are mammals.
steady adj ˈstedi continuing or developing gradually or Paul is making steady progress. 9
without stopping, and not likely to change
cope v kəʊp to succeed in dealing with a difficult Sometimes I find it hard to cope. 9
problem or situation
acute adj əˈkjuːt an acute problem is very serious The housing shortage is more acute than 9
first thought.
deficit n ˈdefəsət, ˈdefɪsət the difference between the amount of the country’s widening budget deficit 9
something that you have and the higher
amount that you need
think one one's idm θɪŋk ɒn wʌnz fiːt When they changed the goal, Melanie was 9
feet to think of ideas and make decisions very able to think on her feet and suggest a
quickly new plan.
all at sea idm ɔːl ət siː confused or not sure what to do I'm all at sea -- I don't know where to go 9
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or what to do.
speech
brainy adj ˈbreɪni able to learn easily and think quickly He always was the brainy one. 9
dense adj dens I've explained it three times already, why 9
not able to understand things easily are you being so dense?
dim adj dɪm You'll need to give him something easy to 9
not intelligent do -- he's a bit dim.
disoriented adj dɪsˈɔːrientəd, dɪs confused and not understanding what is When he emerged into the street, he was 9
ˈɔːrientɪd happening around you completely disoriented.
feeble-minded adj ˈfiːbəl ˈmaɪndəd stupid or not sensible a feeble-minded policy 9
gifted adj ˈɡɪftəd, ˈɡɪftɪd having a natural ability to do one or more She was an extremely gifted poet. 9
things extremely well
have a good head idm v eɪ ɡʊd hed ɒn be sensible and down to earth Emma has a good head on her shoulders 9
on one's shoulders wʌnz ˈʃəʊld əz and I'm sure she'll make a sensible
decision.
high IQ n phr haɪ ˌaɪ ˈkjuː your IQ is your level of intelligence, I don't know if I've got a high IQ because 9
measured by a special test, with 100 I've never had a test.
being the average result
knowledgeable adj ˈnɒlɪdʒəbəl knowing a lot Graham’s very knowledgeable about 9
wines.
muddled adj ˈmʌdld confused muddled thinking 9
perplexed adj pəˈplekst confused and worried by something that The student looked at him, perplexed. 9
you do not understand
precocious adj prɪˈkəʊʃəs a precocious child shows intelligence or a precocious child who walked and talked 9
skill at a very young age, or behaves in early
an adult way – sometimes used to show
disapproval in British English
quick-witted adj ˌkwɪk ˈwɪt ɪd able to think and understand things Toby was quick-witted and entertaining. 9
quickly
slow on the uptake adj phr sləʊ ɒn ðə ˈʌpteɪk not quick to understand something new Sometimes Tim’s a little slow on the 9
uptake.
mind like a sieve idm maɪnd laɪk eɪ sɪv I have to write everything down 9
otherwise I forget -- I've got a mind like
to forget things easily sieve.
mindless adj ˈmaɪndləs completely stupid and without any His drinking bouts often ended in acts of 9
purpose mindless violence.
reminder v rɪˈmaɪndə something that makes you notice, a reminder of the dangers of drinking and 9
remember, or think about something driving
recollection n ˌrekəˈlekʃən something from the past that you My earliest recollections are of my mother 9
remember bending over my cot.
recall v rɪˈkɔːl to remember a particular fact, event, or You don’t happen to recall his name, do 9
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situation from the past you?
speech
stable adj ˈsteɪbəl steady and not likely to move or change A wide base will make the structure much 10
more stable.
temperament n ˈtempərəmənt the emotional part of someone’s Jill has such a lovely relaxed 10
character, especially how likely they are temperament.
to be happy, angry etc
nail down idm neɪl daʊn to reach a final and definite agreement or We asked a lawyer to help us nail down 10
decision about something the details in the contract.
insistence n ɪnˈsɪstəns when you demand that something should his insistence that they discuss the 10
happen and refuse to let anyone say no problem
determined adj dɪˈtɜːmənd, dɪ having a strong desire to do something, Gwen is a very determined woman. 10
ˈtɜːmɪnd so that you will not let anyone stop you
race track n phr reɪs træk a circular course around which runners, For my birthday, I drove a racing car 10
cars etc race, which often has a specially around a rack track.
prepared surface
to one's liking phr tə wʌnz ˈlaɪkɪŋ This coffee cake is not to my liking, but 10
being just what you wanted the strawberry one is lovely.
dimension n daɪˈmenʃən, də- a part of a situation or a quality involved the moral dimension of world politics 10
in it
inevitable adj ɪˈnevətəbəl, ɪ certain to happen and impossible to avoid A further escalation of the crisis now 10
ˈnevɪtəbəl seems inevitable.
ups and downs idm ʌps ənd daʊnz the mixture of good and bad experiences We have our ups and downs like all 10
that happen in any situation or couples.
relationship
blow up phr v bləʊ ʌp to destroy something, or to be destroyed, The plane blew up in midair. 10
by an explosion
unflappable adj ʌnˈflæpəbəl having the ability to stay calm and not The great thing about Suzy is that even if 10
become upset, even in difficult situations everything is going wrong, she's
completely unflappable.
highs and lows idm haɪz ənd ləʊz the mixture of good and bad experiences We've had many highs and lows in our 10
that happen in any situation or marriage, but I still love Richard.
relationship
rationalise v ˈræʃənəlaɪz if you rationalize behaviour that is wrong, When he makes a mistake, Glen always 10
you invent an explanation for it so that it finds a way to rationalize what he’s done.
does not seem as bad
come with age phr kʌm wɪð eɪdʒ develop as you get older Patience often comes with age, although 10
I'm 40 and I'm still waiting!
worn adj wɔːn a worn object is old and damaged, a worn patch on the carpet 10
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especially because it has been used a lot
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speech
load n ləʊd a large quantity of something that is a load of wood 10
carried by a vehicle, person etc
data n ˈdeɪtə, ˈdɑːtə information or facts The research involves collecting data 10
from two random samples.
register v ˈredʒəstə, ˈredʒɪstə if something registers, or if you register I saw Peter in the shop but I didn't 10
it, you realize or notice it, and then register it was him until he said hello.
remember it
qualify v ˈkwɒləfaɪ, ˈkwɒlɪfaɪ to have the right to have or do Free school lunches are given to children 10
something, or to give someone this right who qualify.
refreshing adj rɪˈfreʃɪŋ pleasantly different from what is familiar She's clever and attractive, but also very 10
and boring modest -- how refreshing!
toddler n ˈtɒdlə a very young child who is just learning to Make sure you keep the toddler away 10
walk from the fire.
go-kart n ˈɡəʊ kɑːt a small vehicle with an open frame and It's such fun whizzing around the track in 10
four wheels, used in races a go-kart.
run out of phr v rʌn aʊt əv to use all of something and not have any I've completely run out of money -- could 10
more left you lend me some, please?
quite the contrary phr kwaɪt ðə ˈkɒntrəri Some people say I am selfish. Quite the 10
the opposite of what has been said or contrary -- I give millions to charity every
suggested year.
sponsor n ˈspɒnsə a person or company that pays for a Eastman Kodak is a major sponsor of the 10
show, broadcast, sports event etc, Olympics.
especially in exchange for the right to
advertise at that event
stand back phr v step away from something in order to be Before you try, stand back and watch 10
ˈstænd bæk safe how the experts do it.
in good hands idm ɪn ɡʊd hændz being dealt with or cared for by someone Thank you for looking after me, doctor, I 10
who is capable and responsible know I'm in good hands with you.
awash in adj əˈwɒʃ ɪn containing too many things or people of a They’ve won the lottery and now they're 10
particular kind awash in cash.
lap n læp How long did it take you to do one lap of 10
a single journey around a race track the course?
stall v stɔːl You need to practise every day if you 10
to stop making progress or developing don't want your progress to stall.
invariably adv ɪnˈveəriəbli if something invariably happens or is It invariably rains when I go there. 10
invariably true, it always happens or is
true
exacting adj ɪɡˈzæktɪŋ demanding a lot of effort, careful work, or She was an exacting woman to work for. 10
skill
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speech
stamina n ˈstæmənə, physical or mental strength that lets you You need stamina to be a long-distance 10
ˈstæmɪnə continue doing something for a long time runner.
without getting tired
endurance n ɪnˈdjʊərəns the ability to continue doing something She was pushed beyond her powers of 10
difficult or painful over a long period of endurance.
time
exceptional adj ɪkˈsepʃənəl unusually good an exceptional student 10
strain n streɪn worry that is caused by having to deal I couldn’t look after him any more; the 10
with a problem or work too hard over a strain was too much for me.
long period of time
adrenalin n əˈdrenəl-ən, ə a chemical produced by your body when There’s nothing like a good horror film to 10
ˈdrenəl-ɪn you are afraid, angry, or excited, which get the adrenalin going (=make you feel
makes your heart beat faster nervously excited).
build up phr v bɪld ʌp if something builds up somewhere, or if the rate at which the pension builds up 10
you build it up, it gradually becomes
bigger or greater
undergo v ˌʌndəˈɡəʊ if you undergo a change, an unpleasant The country has undergone massive 10
experience etc, it happens to you or is changes recently.
done to you
build n bɪld the shape and size of someone’s body a woman of slim build 10
nutrition n njuːˈtrɪʃən the process of giving or getting the right Nutrition and exercise are essential to 10
type of food for good health and growth fitness and health.
protein n ˈprəʊtiːn one of several natural substances that Soya beans are a good source of protein. 10
exist in food such as meat, eggs, and
beans, and which your body needs in
order to grow and remain strong and
healthy
carbohydrate n ˌkɑːbəʊˈhaɪdreɪt, a substance that is in foods such as Rice and bread are source of 10
-drət sugar, bread, and potatoes, which carbohydrates.
provides your body with heat and energy
and which consists of oxygen, hydrogen,
and carbon
stuff oneself v stʌf wʌnˈself to eat so much food that you cannot eat Don't stuff yourself before you go 10
anything else swimming -- you'll feel sick.
absorb v əbˈsɔːb, əbˈzɔːb to take in liquid, gas, or another Plants absorb nutrients from the soil. 10
substance from the surface or space
around something
dehydration n ˌdiːhaɪˈdreɪʃən to remove the liquid from a substance Dehydration can be a big problem if you 10
such as food or a chemical do exercise on a hot day.
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speech
sweat v swet to have drops of salty liquid coming out I was sweating a lot despite the air 10
through your skin because you are hot, conditioning.
ill, frightened, or doing exercise
cockpit n ˈkɒkˌpɪt the area in a plane, small boat, or racing When I was a little boy, I was allowed to 10
car where the pilot or driver sits go into the cockpit of an aeroplane when
we went on holiday.
skate around phr v skeɪt əˈraʊnd to avoid mentioning a problem or subject, You can ask her if she wants to have 10
or not give it enough attention children, but she'll probably just skate
around the subject.
sail through phr v seɪl θruː to succeed very easily in a test, Patricia sailed through the medical and 10
examination etc was declared 100% fit.
rein in phr v reɪn ɪn Can you rein in your constant criticism? 10
to start to control a situation more strictly It's getting me down.
take the wind out idm teɪk ðə wɪnd aʊt əv to make someone lose their confidence, I confessed to the crime and took the 10
of one's sails wʌnz seɪəlz especially by saying or doing something wind out of his sails.
unexpected
on the ball idm ɒn ðə bɔːl able to think or act quickly and an assistant who’s really on the ball 10
intelligently
move the goalposts idm muːv ðə to change the rules, limits etc for You can't move the goalposts now - I've 10
ˈɡəʊl pəʊsts something while someone is trying to do already started working on the project!
something, making it more difficult for
them - used to show disapproval
set aside phr v to decide not to consider a particular You are in the same team as Ewan so 10
feeling or thing because something else is you're going to have to set aside your
ˌset əˈsaɪd more important differences.
for the good of phr fə ðə ɡʊd əv in order to help someone or improve a Please can you apologise to your sister, 10
situation for the good of the family.
trap v træp to prevent someone from escaping from Twenty miners were trapped 10
somewhere, especially a dangerous place underground.
thereabouts adv ˌðeərəˈbaʊts near a particular time, place, number etc, These houses were built in 1930 or 10
but not exactly thereabouts.
shift n ʃɪft if workers in a factory, hospital etc work My shift lasts from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. 10
shifts, they work for a particular period of
time during the day or night, and are then
replaced by others, so that there are
always people working
to an extent phr tə ən ɪkˈstent I like opera to an extent, but it's not my 10
partly favourite kind of music.
trust v trʌst to believe that someone is honest or will I just don’t trust him. 10
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not do anything bad or wrong
speech
team spirit n phr tiːm ˈspɪrət willingness to work as part of a team If you have a good team spirit, you can 10
stay positive even when everything is
going wrong.
keep someone idm kiːp ˈsʌmwʌn to have or to give someone enough hope 10
going ˈɡəʊɪŋ and emotional strength to continue living Her letters were the only thing that kept
and doing things, in a bad situation me going while I was in prison
maintain v meɪnˈteɪn, mən- to strongly express your belief that I maintain that is was Sarah who broke 10
something is true the vase, not me.
contribution n ˌkɒntrəˈbjuːʃən, something that you give or do in order to Einstein was awarded the Nobel Prize for 10
ˌkɒntrɪˈbjuːʃən help something be successful his contribution to Quantum Theory.
no point in phr nəʊ pɔɪnt ɪn There is no point worrying about 10
no purpose or aim of doing something something that might not happen.
well n wel a deep hole in the ground from which She lowered her bucket into the well. 10
people take water
dig v dɪɡ to move earth, snow etc, or to make a They dig a small hole in the sand to bury 10
hole in the ground, using a spade or your their eggs.
hands
apparently adv əˈpærəntli used to say that you have heard that Apparently the company is losing a lot of 10
something is true, although you are not money.
completely sure about it
bond v bɒnd to develop a special relationship with People who work together in emergency 10
someone departments in hospitals bond quickly.
letdown n ˈletdaʊn an event, performance etc that is not as The end of the book was a real letdown. 10
good as you expected it to be
come to terms with v phr kʌm tə tɜːmz wɪð I had a knee injury when I was 15 and 10
to accept an unpleasant or sad situation had to come to terms with the fact that I
and no longer feel upset or angry about it would never play rugby again.
back row n phr bæk rəʊ the last line of seats in a theatre or The only seats left at the cinema were in 10
cinema the back row, far from the screen.
typecast adj ˈtaɪpkɑːst to always give an actor the same type of He always gets typecast as the villain. 10
character to play
get stuck with idm ɡet stʌk wɪð to have something you do not want My mum gave me her old moped and now 10
because you cannot get rid of it I've got stuck with it.
stressful adj ˈstresfəl a job, experience, or situation that is Moving to a new house is a very stressful 10
stressful makes you worry a lot experience.
sole adj səʊl the sole person, thing etc is the only one the sole American in the room 10
let go v phr let ɡəʊ to accept that you cannot change I let go of the idea I could be a model 10
something and stop thinking or worrying long ago -- I'm only 152 cm tall.
about it
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speech
in the spotlight idm ɪn ðə ˈspɒtlaɪt the centre of attention Jeremy loves being in the spotlight and 10
gets annoyed if you don't pay him
attention.
glamorous adj ˈɡlæmərəs attractive, exciting, and related to wealth She led an exciting and glamorous life. 10
and success
snowflake n ˈsnəʊfleɪk a small soft flat piece of frozen water that Each snowflake fell silently to earth. 10
falls as snow
peasant n ˈpezənt a poor farmer who owns or rents a small Most villagers are peasant farmers. 10
amount of land, either in past times or in
poor countries
feel part of the idm fiːl pɑːt əv ðə feel that you are in the background and Nobody takes any notice of me at work; 10
scenery ˈsiːnəri unimportant it's like I'm part of the scenery.
efficiency saving n phr ɪˈfɪʃənsi ˈseɪvɪŋ improve the quality of doing something, I think there are lots of changes we can 10
without wasting time, money, or energy make to create efficiency savings.
operating theatre n phr ˈɒpəreɪtɪŋ ˌθɪətə a room in a hospital where operations are Once you have changed into the gown, 10
done we'll take you to the operating theatre for
surgery.
at the expense of phr ət ðə ɪkˈspens əv if something is done at the expense of 10
someone or something else, it is only
achieved by doing something that could the growth in short breaks, at the
harm the other person or thing expense of longer package holidays
concern n kənˈsɜːn a feeling of worry about something The recent rise in crime is a matter of 10
important considerable public concern.
handover n ˈhændəʊvə the act of giving someone else control of The president will remain in office until 10
a place or business the official handover in April.
streamline v ˈstriːmlaɪn to make something such as a business, efforts to streamline the production 10
organization etc work more simply and process
effectively
intensive-care n ɪnˈtensɪv keə a department in a hospital that treats After the accident he was taken to the 10
people who are very seriously ill or badly intensive-care unit.
injured, or the continuous and thorough
treatment given to patients there
throughput n the amount of work, goods, or people that We want to increase throughput of the 10
are dealt with in a particular period of factory so we can increase our profits.
ˈθruːpʊt time
vital adj ˈvaɪtl extremely important and necessary for The work she does is absolutely vital. 10
something to succeed or exist
intake n ˈɪnteɪk a tube, pipe, etc through which air, gas, This is the fuel intake, which must be 10
or liquid enters a machine kept clean.
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speech
briefing n ˈbriːfɪŋ information or instructions that you get We have a briefing every morning so that 10
before you have to do something our boss can tell us what he wants us to
do.
be taken aback phr v bi ˈteɪkən əˈbæk to be very surprised about something Emma was somewhat taken aback by his 10
directness.
no wonder that phr nəʊ ˈwʌndə ðæt used to say that you are not surprised by It's no wonder you're hungry - you 10
something haven't eaten breakfast or lunch.
rehearsal n rɪˈhɜːsəl a time when all the people in a play, a rehearsal for Romeo and Juliet 10
concert etc practise before a public
performance
basically adv ˈbeɪsɪkli used to emphasize the most important Basically, I’m just lazy. 10
reason or fact about something, or a
simple explanation of something
under pressure phr ˈʌndə ˈpreʃə a way of working or living that causes you I was under a lot of pressure when I was 10
a lot of anxiety, especially because you taking my exams.
feel you have too many things to do
rely upon v phr rɪˈlaɪ əˈpɒn to trust or depend on someone or You can always rely upon Sylvia to do 10
something to do what you need or expect what she says she'll do.
them to do
fatal adj ˈfeɪtl resulting in someone’s death potentially fatal diseases 10
(7 seconds) flat adv (ˌsevən ˈsekəndz) in exactly three minutes, ten seconds etc I can have a shower, get dressed and 10
flæt - used to emphasize that something leave the house in five minutes flat.
happens or is done very quickly
unity n ˈjuːnəti, ˈjuːnɪti when a group of people or countries agree economic unity 10
or are joined together
flick through phr v flɪk θruː to look at a book, magazine, set of If you flick through the newspaper you'll 10
photographs etc quickly see the photo I was talking about.
household name n phr ˈhaʊshəʊld neɪm a name of a product, company etc that is Nintendo is now a household name. 10
very well known
swoop v swuːp if a bird or aircraft swoops, it moves The eagle hovered, ready to swoop at any 10
suddenly down through the air, especially moment.
in order to attack something
glide v ɡlaɪd to move smoothly and quietly, as if couples gliding over the dance floor 10
without effort
acrobat n ˈækrəbæt someone who entertains people by doing The acrobat did any incredible 10
difficult physical actions such as walking somersault, landing on one foot.
on their hands or balancing on a high
rope, especially at a circus
reckless adj ˈrekləs not caring or worrying about the possible He was accused of causing death by 10
bad or dangerous results of your actions reckless driving.
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speech
feat n fiːt something that is an impressive They climbed the mountain in 28 days, a 10
achievement, because it needs a lot of remarkable feat.
skill, strength etc to do
contortion n kənˈtɔːʃən a twisted position or movement that looks I could not force my body into the 10
surprising or strange contortions required by classical ballet.
same flesh and idm seɪm fleʃ ənd blʌd They may be the same flesh and blood as 10
blood as əz me, but I could never do the things they
someone who is part of your family do.
soar v sɔː to fly, especially very high up in the sky, It must feel wonderful to soar through the 10
floating on air currents air like an eagle.
unforgiving adj ˌʌnfəˈɡɪvɪŋ an unforgiving place is very If you fall over when you're ice-skating, 10
uncomfortable, for example because it is the ice is very unforgiving.
extremely hot or cold
gasp n ɡɑːsp when you take in a breath suddenly in a With a gasp of pure horror, Lewis jumped 10
way that can be heard, especially because up and ran.
you are surprised or in pain
awe n ɔː a feeling of great respect and liking for He felt great awe for the landscape. 10
backstage adv ˌbækˈsteɪdʒ behind the stage in a theatre, especially Everyone backstage is very nervous 10
in the actors’ dressing rooms before the show begins.
physique n fəˈziːk, fɪˈziːk the size and appearance of someone’s She didn’t have the physique to be a 10
body dancer.
strike someone v phr straɪk ˈsʌmwʌn if something strikes you, you think of it, It struck me that she was very brave to 10
notice it, or realize that it is important, talk about the difficulties she had
interesting, true etc: overcome.
risk-averse adj rɪsk əˈvɜːs not willing to take risks Financial institutions might be so risk- 10
averse that they will not lend money.
cross-country adj ˌkrɒs ˈkʌntr i across fields or not along main roads cross-country running 10
in touch with phr ɪn tʌtʃ wɪð Are you still in touch with Lynda from 10
talking or writing to someone school?
gregarious adj ɡrɪˈɡeəriəs friendly and preferring to be with other I've never been gregarious, I prefer to 10
people stay at home on my own.
appeal v əˈpiːl if someone or something appeals to you, The thought of parachuting doesn't 10
they seem attractive and interesting appeal to me -- it's far too dangerous.
be a drag idm bi eɪ dræɡ to make it hard for someone to make Working overtime at the weekend is a 10
progress towards what they want real drag.
lift your spirits idm lɪft jə ˈspɪrɪts When I see the faces of my little 10
make someone happier grandchildren, it lifts my spirits.
gifted adj ˈɡɪftəd, ˈɡɪftɪd having a natural ability to do one or more She was an extremely gifted poet. 10
things extremely well
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speech
ego n ˈiːɡəʊ, ˈeɡəʊ the opinion that you have about yourself Richard has the biggest ego (=thinks he 10
is very clever and important) of anyone
I’ve ever met.
conductor n kənˈdʌktə someone who stands in front of a group The conductor is in charge of an 10
of musicians or singers and directs their orchestra.
playing or singing
like-minded adj ˌlaɪk ˈmaɪnd ɪd having similar interests and opinions a chance to meet like-minded people 10
constraint n kənˈstreɪnt something that limits your freedom to do Constraints on spending have forced the 10
what you want company to rethink its plans.
euphoria n juːˈfɔːriə an extremely strong feeling of happiness There was a general atmosphere of 10
and excitement which usually only lasts pessimism after the euphoria of last year.
for a short time
retired adj rɪˈtaɪəd having stopped working, usually because a retired teacher 10
of your age
get sick of idm ɡet sɪk əv I get sick of people complaining all the 10
to be angry or bored with something that time; why can't they talk about positive
has been happening for a long time things instead?
a change of phr eɪ tʃeɪndʒ əv ˈsiːnəri I went to stay with my daughter for a few 10
scenery when you go to a different place or do days -- it was nice to have a change of
something different scenery.
unwind v ʌnˈwaɪnd to relax and stop feeling anxious a beautiful country hotel that is the 10
perfect place to unwind
on the (social) side phr ɒn ðə (səʊʃəl) saɪd one part or feature of something, On the plus side, I have made a lot of 10
especially when compared with another new friends at my diet club.
part
fellow adj ˈfeləʊ people that you work with, study with, or We all have obligations to our fellow men. 10
who are in the same situation as you
swap v swɒp to give something to someone and get Do you want to swap umbrellas? 10
something in return
tip n tɪp If you want to make new friends, my tip 10
a helpful piece of advice is to get a dog and take it out for walks.
tedious adj ˈtiːdiəs something that is tedious continues for a The work was tiring and tedious. 10
long time and is not interesting
commit to v kəˈmɪt tə to say that someone will definitely do I've decided to commit to learning Italian, 10
something or must do something no matter how long it takes me.
know the ropes idm nəʊ ðə rəʊps understand all the things someone needs When you start the job, it will take you a 10
to know to do a job or deal with a system few months to learn the ropes.
first-time adj ˌfɜːst ˈtaɪm describes someone who is doing First-time buyers find it difficult to save a 10
something for the first time deposit for a house.
train v treɪn to teach someone the skills of a particular All staff will be trained in customer 10
Advanced Expert 76
job or activity, or to be taught these skills service skills.
speech
nuisance n ˈnjuːsəns a person, thing, or situation that annoys The dogs next door are a real nuisance. 10
you or causes problems
wag v wæɡ if a dog wags its tail, or if its tail wags, ‘You naughty girl!’ Mom said, wagging her 10
the dog moves its tail many times from finger at me.
one side to the other
loyal adj ˈlɔɪəl always supporting your friends, principles, The army has remained loyal to the 10
country etc government.
nevertheless adv ˌnevəðəˈles in spite of a fact that you have just What you said was true. It was, 10
mentioned nevertheless, a little unkind.
merit n ˈmerət, ˈmerɪt an advantage or good feature of The film has the merit of being short. 10
something
get caught up in v phr ɡet kɔːt ʌp ɪn to be or get involved in something, I got caught up in the moment and 10
especially something bad started screaming at the band.
disparate adj ˈdɪspərət, ˈdɪspərɪt consisting of things or people that are a meeting covering many disparate 10
very different and not related to each subjects
other
high n haɪ After the wedding ceremony, I was on a 10
a feeling of great happiness or excitement real high.
strain n streɪn worry that is caused by having to deal I couldn’t look after him any more; the 10
with a problem or work too hard over a strain was too much for me.
long period of time
sibling n ˈsɪblɪŋ a brother or sister Most young smokers are influenced by 10
their friends’ and older siblings’ smoking
habits.
weird adj wɪəd very strange and unusual, and difficult to A really weird thing happened last night. 10
understand or explain
apart adj əˈpɑːt if people are apart, they are not together I don't like being apart from my parents. 10
in the same place, or not having a
relationship with each other
turn up phr v tɜːn ʌp to arrive at a place, especially in a way If you're going to be late, don't bother to 10
that is unexpected turn up at all.
get along phr v ɡet əˈlɒŋ if two or more people get along, they We’ve always got along quite well. 10
have a friendly relationship
let one's hair down idm let wʌnz heə daʊn to enjoy yourself and start to relax, Nigel never relaxes; he finds it difficult to 10
especially after working very hard let his hair down.
sing-song n sɪŋ sɒŋ when a group of people sing together, At the party Sandrine played the piano 10
informally and we had a sing-song.
row n rəʊ a short angry argument, especially Nelly and I had a big row. We haven't 10
between people who know each other well spoken since.
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speech
break out phr v breɪk aʊt if something unpleasant such as a fire, I was still living in London when the war 10
fight, or war breaks out, it starts to broke out.
happen
resentment n rɪˈzentmənt a feeling of anger because something has She was filled with deep resentment at 10
happened that you think is unfair being passed over for promotion.
self-improvement n ˌself ɪm ˈpruːv mənt the process of trying to become a better I real lots of books about self- 10
and happier person, for example by improvement, but I never do anything.
gaining new knowledge
distracting adj to take someone’s attention away from Your music is so distracting, can you turn 10
something by making them look at or it down?
dɪˈstræktɪŋ listen to something else
enlightening adj ɪn ˈlaɪt ən‿ɪŋ the characteristic of explaining something I found his book very enlightening and it 10
to someone made me change my opinion about some
things.
go off at tangents idm ɡəʊ ɒf ət to suddenly start thinking or talking about When Miles tells you a story it goes on for 10
ˈtændʒ ənts a subject that is only slightly related, or ages because he always goes off at
not related at all, to the original subject tangents.
rational adj ˈræʃənəl rational thoughts, decisions etc are based Parents need to be fully informed so they 10
on reasons rather than emotions can make a rational decision.
end up phr v end ʌp to be in a particular situation, state, or He came round for a coffee and we ended 10
place after a series of events, especially up having a meal together.
when you did not plan it
is
tendency n ˈtendənsi if someone or something has a tendency Greg’s tendency to be critical made him 10
to do or become a particular thing, they unpopular with his co-workers.
are likely to do or become it
look on the bright idm lʊk ɒn ðə braɪt saɪd to see the good points in a situation that Come on, try to look on the bright side. 10
side seems to be bad
survival n səˈvaɪvəl the state of continuing to live or exist Illegal hunting is threatening the survival 10
of the species.
evolution n ˌiːvəˈluːʃən, ˌevə- the scientific idea that plants and animals the evolution of mammals 10
develop and change gradually over a long
period of time
outcome n ˈaʊtkʌm the final result of a meeting, discussion, It was impossible to predict the outcome 10
war etc – used especially when no one of the election.
knows what it will be until it actually
happens
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speech
ceaseless adj ˈsiːsləs happening for a long time without the ceaseless fight against crime 10
stopping
reassurance n ˌriːəˈʃʊərəns something that is said or done which Parents are looking for reassurance about 10
makes someone feel calmer and less their children’s safety.
worried or frightened about a problem
constant adj ˈkɒnstənt happening regularly or all the time There was a constant stream of visitors to 10
the house.
reject v rɪˈdʒekt to refuse to accept, believe in, or agree Sarah rejected her brother’s offer of help. 10
with something
insecurity n ˌɪnsiˈkjʊərəti not feeling at all confident about yourself, Student teachers often suffer from a 10
your abilities, or your relationships with great sense of insecurity.
people
imagine the worst idm ɪˈmædʒən ðə wɜːst imagine a situation that is worse than If you imagine the worst, you can prepare 10
anything else yourself.
chill out phr v tʃɪl aʊt to relax completely instead of feeling Spending time with friends is a good way 10
angry, tired, or nervous to chill out.
inclusive adj ɪnˈkluːsɪv Our school is very inclusive and all 10
including a wide variety of people, things children are given the same
etc opportunities.
affordable adj ə ˈfɔːd əb| əl to have enough money to buy or pay for affordable housing 10
something
equipped adj ɪ ˈkwɪpt containing all the things that are needed Our studio is equipped with the all the art 10
for a particular kind of activity or work supplies you might need.
state-of-the-art adj ˌsteɪt əv ði ˈɑːt using the most modern and recently state-of-the-art technology 10
developed methods, materials, or
knowledge
under the watchful idm ˈʌndə ðə ˈwɒtʃfəl aɪ The students will complete the project 10
eye of əv following someone's instructions or with under the watchful eye of the
someone's help headmaster.
exhilarated adj feeling extremely happy, excited, and full I was exhilarated when I arrived at the 10
ɪɡˈzɪləreɪtɪd of energy bottom of the ski slope.
holistic adj həʊˈlɪstɪk considering a person or thing as a whole, a holistic approach to design 10
rather than as separate parts
well-being n ˌwel ˈbiː ɪŋ a feeling of being comfortable, healthy, Going for a run every morning really 10
and happy improves my feeling of well-being.
unwind v ʌnˈwaɪnd to relax and stop feeling anxious a beautiful country hotel that is the 10
perfect place to unwind
therapy n ˈθerəpi the treatment of an illness or injury over new drug therapies 10
a fairly long period of time
Advanced Expert 79

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