BETTER WORDS Flashcards
(344 cards)
1
Q
I heard a very (interesting) story.
3x
A
fascinating
compelling
riveting
2
Q
Thank you for being (very open) with me.
2
A
transparent
straightforward
3
Q
The country is (very poor)
3
A
destitute.
impoverished.
penniless
4
Q
He’s (very rich)
2x
A
well-off
prosperous
5
Q
I was very (scared of) snakes.
2
A
terrified
petrified
6
Q
I am very (intelligent)
4x
A
astute
ingenious
adroit
shrewd
an adroit reaction/answer/movement of the hand
She became adroit at dealing with difficult questions.
7
Q
The storm on the ocean created (very big) waves.
2x
A
The storm on the ocean created gigantic waves.
The storm on the ocean created enormous waves.
8
Q
Trains are (very crowded)
2x
A
jam-packed
cramped.
9
Q
The (angry) customer has complained about the bad service.
5
A
enraged indignant furious fuming livid
10
Q
It’s been (very rainy) for over an hour.
A
It’s been pouring for over an hour.
11
Q
The prices are (very expensive) in this store.
1x
A
exorbitant
12
Q
The food in that restaurant is (very good)
1
A
superb [soo·purb].
13
Q
I was (very surprised) by the news.
1x
A
stunned
14
Q
terrible
5x
A
horrible
horrific
dreadful
gruesome
horrendous
15
Q
She had a (very painful) headache. 2x
A
excruciating
unbearable
agonizing
16
Q
Your problems are (very small), compared to theirs.
A
Your problems are (minuscule), compared to theirs.
17
Q
That’s a (very old ) building.
2x
A
decrepit
grizzled
18
Q
You look (very beautiful) in that dress.
2x
A
You look stunning in that dress.
You look gorgeous in that dress.
19
Q
The explosion caused a (very loud) noise.
2x
A
deafening
booming
thunderous
blaring
20
Q
Everyone was (very full) after the big meal.
A
stuffed
21
Q
He’s very positive about his future.
2x
A
optimistic
upbeat
22
Q
It’s (very important) that you call a doctor.
A
It’s crucial that you call a doctor.
23
Q
He had a (very confused) look on his face.
A
bewildered
24
Q
The (very fat) man went on a diet.
A
obeset.
25
You did a (very good) job on that report.
outstanding
26
The question is (not clear)
2x
vague
| ambiguous
27
That stone is (worth a lot).
precious
28
He is (excessicely eager to please) his boss.
3x
fawning, subservient, servile.
He's subservient to his boss.
29
With new technology, some jobs have become (out of date).
With new technology, some jobs have become obsolete.
30
He is a (passionate) sports fan.
ardent
31
Be (tough) in times of conflicts.
resilient
32
not enough
inadequate
33
It was an exhausting trip but it was (worth the effort)
worthwhile
34
She has (amazing) talent in music.
extraordinary
35
The (continuous)noise kept him awake.
incessant
36
A sudden (frightening) noise woke everyone up.
startling
37
This job requires a (careful and organized) person.
3x
meticulous
scrupulous
fastidious
38
Please don't (delay) an important matter.
put off
39
He faces up to 20 years (in jail)
2x
in the link
| behind bars
40
His (careless) driving caused an accident.
reckless
41
The meeting ended (suddenly).
abruptly
42
That employee was (excited) to help us.
eager / thrilled
43
Barack Obama gave a (well-spoken) speech.
eloquent
44
He lost his job because of his (strange) behavior.
eccentric
45
I'm tried of this (dark and depressing) weather.
gloomy
46
Because nobody's perfect, mistakes are (unavoidable)
inevitable
47
He's (very shy) but his sister is social.
34
diffident
timid
trepid
introverted
48
His writing is not clear (? hint: i).
His writing is almost illegible.
49
Know what to say when giving her the bad news.
Please find a tactful way to give her the bad news.
50
Which word is stressed in:
Good day!
Good job!
Nice weather!
Day
Job
Weather
51
Which word is stressed in:
```
Cell Phone
Credit Card
Water Bottle
Thought Group
Hair Style
```
```
Cell
Credit
Water
Group
Style
```
52
Please be careful before you give her the bad news.
Please find a tactful way to tell her the bad news.
53
Do you have someone that you can trust?
Do you have a trustworthy person?
54
Modifying existing applications are difficult and often introduces subtle and (persistent) bugs.
tenacious
55
John is persistent. He never gives in [accepts defeat].
John is tenacious. He never gives in.
56
The funny man entertained everyone at the party.
The witty man entertained everyone at the party.
57
John is a (very hardworking) team member and his colleagues always rely on him.
1
conscientious
58
He's very careful with spending money.
| 2 definitions
frugal
| thrift
59
The dishonest salesman convinced easily fooled customer to buy the old car.
The dishonest salesman convinced a gullible customer to buy the old car.
60
My friend is too direct. He doesn't normally look at other people's emotions.
My friend is outspoken. He doesn't normally look at other people's emotions.
61
He's too proud. He always talks about how much he earns.
The conceited man always talks about how much he earns.
62
The proud man always talks about his expensive sports car.
The conceited man always talks about his expensive sports car.
63
He has very good memory (3x) of remembering things.
He has tenacious [retentive, recollective] memory of remembering things.
64
There is a small chance of rain today.
There is a remote chance of rain today.
65
He is a changeable person. He doesn't know what he wants.
He is fickle. He doesn't know what he wants.
66
Everyone was surprised when the average (=?) team won the championship.
Everyone was surprised when the mediocre team won the championship.
67
After being lost in the desert, the man was very thirsty and (hungry)
3x
famished
ravenous
starving
68
If you don't add any spices, the soup will taste flavorless.
If you don't add any spices, the soup will taste bland.
69
Please clean this (dirty) room at once.
filthy
grimy /'graimi/
dilapidated (old, dilapidated buildings)
squalid
70
The knowledgeable businessman made a lot of money on his investment.
The savvy businessman made a lot of money on his investment.
71
When she took off her glasses, the letters became unclear.
When she took off her glasses, the letters became blurry.
72
The changeable customer changed his order many times.
The fickle customer changed his order many times.
73
Your attempt to achieve this goal is never (useless)
Your attempt to achieve this goal is never futile [fyoo·tl].
Your attempt to achieve this goal is never nugatory.
74
Q: How's your work?
A: Boring (5x)
```
tedious
monotomous
mind-numbing
dreary
run-of-the-mill
```
uninteresting
75
I find skydiving is risky.
I find skydiving is hazardous.
76
This guy is known for his bad character.
This guy is infamous for his bad character.
77
I always love to read books.
| I'm a (bookaholic) person.
studious
78
she was working on an interesting project and became so absorbed, unaware/unconscious of (= 2x) the passage of time.
she was working on an interesting project and became so absorbed, oblivious to of the passage of time.
she was working on an interesting project and became so absorbed, incognizant of the passage of time.
79
Smoking is dangerous for your health.
1 x verb form
3 x adj form
Smoking jeopardizes your health.
Smoking is perilous for your health.
Smoking is treacherous /ˈtrɛtʃ(ə)rəs/ for your health.
Smoking is precarious for your health.
80
The doctor warned against doing (very hard) activities.
vigorous activities
81
I've made (impressive) progress in my English.
3
tremendous
remarkable
extraordinary
82
The politician apologized for his (negative) comments.
derogatory
83
I only have a (basic) understanding of physics.
rudimentary
84
Because people don't follow traffic laws, driving in that country is (out of order)
chaotic
85
He behaves as if he's (not interested).
He behaves as if he's indifferent.
86
His school attendance was (irregular)
sporadic
87
Everyone agreed with the jury's decision that he was guilty of murder.
(? passive voice, hint: decision was ..)
The jury's decision was unanimous that he was guilty of murder.
/ˈdʒʊəri/
88
We live in an increasingly (non-religious) society, in which religion has less and less influence on our daily lives.
secular
89
The doctor advised him to change his (inactive) lifestyle.
sedentary
90
A true entrepreneur is always looking for (profitable) business ideas.
lucrative
91
His (cruel/harsh) voice made the child cry.
2x
His grating voice made the child cry.
| His strident voice made the child cry.
92
The little boy had a (very short) interest in taking karate classes.
fleeting
93
The politician promised to fix the (slow) economy.
stagnant
94
The workers were (not doing anything) while the equipment was repaired.
idle
95
She has been late(? adj) in paying her taxes.
She has been delinquent in paying her taxes.
"delinquent" commonly refers to a situation where a borrower is late or overdue on a payment
96
It's over one week that I have not returned my library books.
(? hints: my books are ... o)
My library books are one week overdue.
97
The boss expects every staff is ready to (obey his commands) .
The boss expects every staff is at his beck and call.
98
This programming language triggered(?) my interest.
This programming language piqued my interest.
99
She got irritated(?) when they refused her invitation.
She was piqued when they refused her invitation.
100
(Reduce) your enthusiasm and keep it within limits.
1x
Curb
101
to cause something to happen in a violent and often uncontrolled way.
wreak
e.g wreak havoc
A powerful tornado wreaked havoc on the small village.
The recent storms have wreaked havoc on crops.
e.g. wreak revenge/vengeance
She was determined to wreak revenge/vengeance on both him and his family.
102
The virus caused(?) damager (?) on my computer.
The virus wreaked havoc on my computer.
103
Speaking about sex is a practice (?) that is prohibited in his country due to religious custom.
Speaking about sex is a taboo in his country.
104
Gossiping affects(?) the relationship.
Gossiping erodes the relationship.
105
Don't conclude(?) things yet.
Don't jump to the conclusion yet.
106
It didn't take long for news of his resignation to become known(?).
It didn't take long for news of his resignation to get round.
107
He has a tendency(? hint: one word) to get easily offended by something.
He's sensitive.
108
The banquet was an expensive-looking(?) meal.
The banquet was a sumptuous luxurious meal.
https://dictionary.cambridge.org/pronunciation/english/sumptuous
109
Minor or unimportant restrictions could trigger (=?) the anger (=?) of a creative artist.
1
Petty/trivial
110
(Eating food quickly) in large amounts can create indigestion.
Gulping food can cause indigestion.
111
Singapore's weather is (unpredictable).
Singapore's weather is capricious.
112
It's impossible to understand what he is thinking or feeling from his facial expression.
(? hint: his face looks ..)
His face looks inscrutable.
113
The landlord tried to (cheat) our deposit.
swindle
114
We were (unable to leave) because of the tides.
We were stranded because of the tides.
115
The singer received (noisy and excited) applause.
The singer received tumultuous applause.
116
The steak looks (tender, juicy, and tasty).
The steak looks succulent.
117
He found himself in a (dangerous situation) from which it is hard to escape.
He found himself in a quicksand.
118
He had a guilty (sense) about his desires.
conscience
119
Though I was in pain, I was (aware of) my surroundings.
conscious.
120
He does his duty well and thoroughly.
| ? hint: he is a
He is a conscientious person.
121
I hope he didn't think I was (disrespectful) when I asked him about his private life.
impertinent
122
Don't make your boss (annoyed)
2x
vexed
irked / urk/
irritated
123
Meditation is what makes me (stop worrying) about life.
Meditation is what makes me sane.
124
Bukit Timah Railway Station is now (no longer functioning) (?)
Bukit Timah Railway Station is now defunct.
125
The more shocking(?) details of the massacre are too frightening for children.
The more lurid details of the massacre are too frightening for children.
126
"Why do these things always happen to me?" is a question, asked in order to make a statement, that does not expect an answer,
(? hint is ... is a ___ question)
"Why do these things always happen to me?" is a rhetorical question.
127
In response to the question, he produced a lot of empty (response that sounds good but is not sincere)(?).
In response to the question, he produced a lot of empty rhetoric. /ˈretərɪk/
128
Breaking laws may lead you to (unintended consequences)(?).
Breaking laws may lead you to repercussions.
129
(After careful thought)(?), I decided to choose this career.
On reflection, I decided to choose this career.
130
My great work performance is the result (?) of the company giving me good training.
My great work performance is the reflection of the company giving me good training.
131
Stop wasting time(?).
Stop dawdling. Make the call now!
132
A priest /priːst/ takes a vow of abstaining from marriage and sexual relations (?),
A priest /priːst/ takes a vow of celibacy.
133
Our honeymoon was (extremely happy), without any problems
| 4x
idyllic
ecstatic
elated
overjoyed
134
Myanmar has many beautiful (?) scenes.
Myanmar has many idyllic scenes.
135
She begged(?) her parents to let her choose this career.
She implored her parents to let her choose this career.
136
Abuse of power among government officials in my country was spreading in an uncontrollable way (?) during that time.
Abuse of power among government officials in my country was rampant during that time.
137
He's unwilling to believe that people have good, honest, or sincere reasons for doing something. (? noun form)
He has a cynical view of human nature.
138
This is an (extremely beautiful) vase from China.
2x
This is an exquisite vase from China.
This is a magnificent vase from China.
139
I had a lot of (?) fun last night.
I had an exquisite fun last night.
140
You may develop a (deep thought) (?) about life if you watch documentaries of many real-life stories.
You may develop rumination about life if you watch documentaries of many real-life stories.
141
He sat alone, (thinking deeply) about the injustice of the world.
He sat alone, ruminating on the injustice of the world.
142
It would be (impossible) for her to change her mind.
It would be inconceivable for her to change her mind.
143
Some nice people have the (tendency) to agree to others' requests, causing them to overwork.
Some nice people have the inclination to agree to others' requests, causing them to overwork.
144
We were (shocked) by the dirt and mess in her house.
We were revolted by the dirt and mess in her house.
145
The building of a new dam will make thousands of people (leave) that area.
The building of a new dam will displace thousands of people who live in this area.
146
There is a need to remain responsive to the ever-changing challenges and opportunities of the (current) business environment.
There is a need to remain responsive to the ever-changing challenges and opportunities of the contemporary business environment.
147
The music (matches) her voice perfectly.
The music complements her voice perfectly.
148
His theory sounded (logical and consistent).
He sounded coherent.
149
His entry to the party (happened at the same time) as his marriage.
His entry to the party coincided with his marriage.
150
Mary seems to (make every situation seems more terrible than it really is).
Marry seems to dramatize every situation.
151
This theory needs to be backed up with (practical) evidence.
This theory needs to be backed up with empirical evidence.
152
He experienced(?) a life-saving brain operation.
He underwent a life-saving brain operation.
153
Her fear that she had cancer had (no basis in fact).
Her fear that she had cancer was unfounded.
154
We will all one day be (unable to work or move normally) due to old age and sickness.
We will all one day be incapacitated by old age and sickness.
155
Social media is the long-existing (like) of today's era.
Social media is the long-existing craze of today's era.
156
Tasks are (presented as a list of individual items).
Tasks are itemized.
157
Do we want a society where appearance weighs more (importance) over skill or virtue?
Do we want a society where appearance takes precedence over skill or virtue?
158
It would be (disrespectful of me) to comment on the matter.
It would be presumptuous of me to comment on the matter.
159
2x
| Our team had a (lack of enough resources) (?) and (lack of enough manpower) (?).
Our team was under-resourced and understaffed.
160
This decision was (an indication of) (? verb form) a fundamental change in their priorities.
This decision signified a fundamental change in their priorities.
161
Crime has (reached the state that has never happened before).
Crime has increased on an unprecedented scale.
162
He has (quickly recovered from a hard situation).
He's rebounded quickly.
163
Her boss set rules that are (unlikely to change).
Her boss set ironclad rules.
164
He's a self-centred(?) person.
He's an egotistical person.
165
He's a (person who behaves in an extremely stupid way)
imbecile.
crackbrained
166
Some senior professionals are (showing an attitude of patronizing superiority).
Some senior professionals are condescending.
167
The mountain views are eye-catching(?).
The mountain views are spectacular.
168
The first goal was just a bit of luck(?).
The first goal was just a fluke.
169
Government (refusal to change their views) has led to an endless strike in the city.
Government intransigence has led to the endless strike in the city.
170
This proposal is not a magic cure-all (?) for the long-existing traffic jams in most parts of the city.
This proposal is not a panacea for the long-existing traffic jams in most parts of the city.
171
Talking about our old family holidays has made me feel (happy and also slightly sad).
Talking about our old family holidays has made me feel nostalgic.
172
My father is always (thinking about things that make him unhappy).
My father is always broody. /mood/
173
Civil servants (collude or conspire together) (? hint: in..) secretly with dishonest businessmen.
Civil servants are in cahoots with dishonest businessmen.
174
Be mindful(? 2x) of your very bad (? 2x) thoughts.
Be heedful of your bad thoughts.
Be conscious of your bad thoughts.
Be heedful of your awful thoughts.
Be heedful of your miserable thoughts.
Be heedful of your deplorable thoughts.
Be heedful of your rotten thoughts.
175
If your boss is a control freak, please always request his approval (?) before doing something new.
If your boss is a control freak, please always request his assent before doing something new.
176
Albert always talks to cats. It's one of his usual (odd) habits.
1
Albert always talks to cats. It's one of his idiosyncratic habits.
177
Say the word "Australia" and a vision of beaches and blue seas immediately (come into) mind.
1
Say the word "Australia" and a vision of beaches and blue seas immediately spring to mind.
178
Her work at service company is filled [=?] with an anger born of (unjust treatment)
1
Her work at service company is infused with an anger born of pain and oppression
179
Volunteering to help the poor is an unselfish(?) act.
Volunteering to help the poor is an altruistic act.
180
My sister's dog is barking in a (strong and determined way)
1x
My sister's dog is barking ferociously.
181
Infectious diseases put the world in (danger)
1
Infectious diseases put the world in peril.
182
The weather is (very bad).
2x
appalling
atrocious
183
Monotomous work gives no (satisfaction)
Monotomous work gives no gratification.
184
There is an excessively abundant supply of cars on the market.
There is a glut of cars on the market.
185
He felt sick with fear.
He felt sick with apprehension.
186
The data are (very accurate).
4x
The data are exact.
The data are precise.
The data are perfect.
The data are flawless.
187
His behavior is (very aggressive).
His behaviour is forceful.
188
I'm (very amazed) to hear the story.
I'm (very surprised) to hear the story.
3x
I'm astounded to hear the story.
I'm astonished to hear the story.
I'm flabbergasted to hear the story.
189
“Never give up. Today is hard, tomorrow will be worse, but the day after tomorrow will be sunshine.” This statement by Jack Ma, the richest man in China and the founder of Alibaba Group, supports the realistic optimism that drives this company.
“Never give up. Today is hard, tomorrow will be worse, but the day after tomorrow will be sunshine.” This statement by Jack Ma, the richest man in China and the founder of Alibaba Group, underpins the realistic optimism that drives this company.
190
Since you have gained weight shortly after some days, you are now at the situation that you have started in your weight loss journey.
Since you have gained weight shortly after some days, you are now at Square One.
191
A lack of stress reduction skills leads to worsening (?) existing problems and the onset of many others
A lack of stress reduction skills can lead to the exacerbation of existing problems and the onset of many others.
192
I (fetched) some groceries for my dinner.
1
I brought back some groceries for my dinner.
193
Can you (accept this task)?
Can you take on this task?
194
She will explain the rules as they (continue to happen).
She will explain the rules as they (continue to happen).
195
He (saves) a few dollars every month for his upcoming travel.
2x
puts aside
| sets aside
196
The room is very bright.
2x
blinding
| dazzling
197
He's very caring. 1x
compassionate
198
The room is very clean.
3x
spotless
immaculate
hygienic
199
The weather is very cold.
3x
icy
bitter
freezing
200
These seminars helped him stay competitive.
1x
cut-throat
201
He looks (confused). It's because he was trying to do so many things at once.
1x
flustered
agitated
disturbed and upset
202
I'm (confident) in my success.
1x
poised
203
I'm (very confused).
3x
baffled
mystified
dazed
204
He appears to be very (creepy).
3x
skin-crawling
| unnerving
205
The cat is (very cute)
3x
endearing
charming
adorable
206
The cup is very delicate
3x
fragile
frail
flimsy
207
This pattern is very different
1x
distinctive
208
This task is very difficult
1x
arduous
209
This story is causing sad to many people.
2x
dismal
| morbid
210
Your skins look very dry.
2x
parched
| arid
211
She feels very embarrassed
1
mortified / awkward / shamed / humiliated
212
I'm (very enthusiastic) about cybersecurity.
2
zealous /'zelous/
| arid
213
This project is very exciting.
3x
electrifying
exhilarating
breathtaking
214
Justice is fair.
3x
Impartial
neutral
just
215
Dogs are faithful.
2x
loyal
| devoted
216
I'm (very famous) across the globe.
2x
legendary
| renowned
217
The restaurant is (very far) from here.
2x
distant
| remote
218
Bosses are very (fierce).
2x
vicious
| ferocious
219
Situations are (very frustrating)
exasperating
vexing
infuriating
220
Waste bins (full of) rubbish.
3x
waste bins crammed with rubbish.
waste bins overflowing with rubbish.
waste bins packed with rubbish.
221
The movie is very funny.
hilarious
sidesplitting
222
The box is (very heavy)
3x
weighty
dense
hefty
223
honest
| 1x
candid
224
The weather is very hot
6
```
burning
scalding
blistering
scorching
sweltering.
boiling
```
225
Just wear something (very informal).
casual
226
a noisy bunch of (lively/energetic) youngsters
exuberant
| vivacious
227
I'm very lucky.
1x
blessed
228
a summary of facts or events every 15 minutes
a news round-up every 15 minutes
229
He's very negative.
3x
pessimistic
defeatist
cynical
230
This technology is very new.
3x
cutting edge
novel
innovative
231
The trip is very nice.
3x
enjoyable
pleasant
agreeable
232
The environment is (very quiet)
1x
hushed
233
Ancient coins are (very rare) these days.
3x
scarce
sparse
unique
234
He's very religious.
1x
devout
235
He's very responsible.
| 1x
conscientious
dependable
reliable
236
The box has lots of rooms insides.
2
roomy
| palatial
237
The surface is very rough.
3x
coarse
jagged /jaged/
rugged /raged/
gritty
238
The virus is (likely to cause trouble)
rowdy . /raudi/
raucous
wild
239
The kid is very rude
2x
vulgar
| offensive
240
The place is very safe from war.
3
sheltered
harmless
secure
241
very scared
2
petrified
| terrified
242
very severe
1
grave
243
very small
3
Minuscule
tiny
minute
244
having extremely bad smell
4
very stinky
putrid
rancid
noxious
245
very strange
3
bizarre
weird
peculiar
246
very strict
3
austere
stern
harsh
247
very strong
3
muscular
powerful
tough
248
suspicious
3
sceptical
incredulous
wary
249
tall
3
towering
statuesque
lofty
250
tasty
delectable
mouthwatering
scrumptious
251
tempting
2
alluring
tantalizing
252
worried
2
strained
apprehensive
253
He came home after three months at college looking terribly thin.
1
scrawny
254
tired
3
worn out
exhausted
drained
255
ugly
3
hideous
revolting
grotesque
256
useful
1
handy
257
violent
3
abusive
savage
cruel
258
weak
3
feeble
sickly
fragile
259
wet
4
waterlogged
saturated
sopping
soaking
dripping
260
The storm had (decreased gradually).
The storm had petered out.
261
She faces the big (effort requiring) task of bringing up four children single-handedly.
She faces the herculean task of bringing up four children single-handedly.
262
The recovery period for elderly person takes a lot of time.
2x
The period of convalescence or recuperation for elderly person takes a lot of time.
263
I have an (intuition) that something good will happen.
I have a hunch that something good will happen.
264
These ideas must be (promoted) within the organization.
promulgated
265
Koalas search for food at night and sleep all day
Koalas forage at night and sleep all day
266
A (group of cattle) crossed the street.
A (herd of cattle) crossed the street.
267
The mouse (moves quickly) across the floor.
The noise of the explosion sent everyone (moving quickly) back into their homes.
The mouse (scurried) across the floor.
The noise of the explosion sent everyone scurrying back into their homes.
268
She's a (doctor who treats animals).
She's a veterinarian.
269
We have a city centre (full of activity)
the bustling city center
270
The Central Bank (intentionally involved to make situation better) in the currency markets today to try to stabilize the exchange rate.
The Central Bank intervened in the currency markets today to try to stabilize the exchange rate.
271
She (limited) her activities in educational circles.
She confined her activities in educational circles.
272
Students are just (rehearsing lectures without understanding them).
Students are just regurgitating lectures.
273
He's trying to (avoid) this difficult issue.
He's trying to duck this difficult issue.
274
The food is (tasty/delicious).
3x
delectable
delish
scrumptious
275
The government tried to (hide - someone in authority) the virus news.
The government tried to hush up the virus news.
276
There are lots of (people who interrupts a performer or public speaker with derisive (ridiculous) or aggressive comments or abuse.)
There are lots of heckler.
277
That's inappropriate.
That's absurd.
278
His joy is (so obvious that it can easily be seen)
His joy is palpable.
279
A life (full of indulgence in luxury and pleasure)
A voluptuous life.
280
Thousands of refugees are living in (temporary) camps.
Thousands of refugees are living in makeshift camps.
281
They (harshly criticized) the report as a gross distortion of the truth.
They lambaste (lambasted) the report as a gross distortion of the truth
282
The government eventually (cancelled) the plan to destory the area for redevelopment.
rescind
| countermand
283
attracting attention, often in a way that is not wanted
He spent his money in an (obvious) way on fast cars and luxury holidays.
He spent his money in a conspicuous way on fast cars and luxury holidays.
In China, her blonde hair was conspicuous.
He tried not to look conspicuous and moved slowly along the back
2h
284
The whole episode was an (obviously intentional) attempt to gain publicity.
The whole episode was blatant attempt to gain publicity.
You use blatant to describe something bad that is done in an open or very obvious way.
285
He rarely used taxis, which he regarded as "spending too much money".
He rarely used taxis, which he regarded as extravagant.
286
Let's (solve) the problem together,
Let's tackle the problem together,
287
This child is (just recovering from an illness or medical treatment) - noun form
1x
a convalescent child
288
US has the largest (prisoners) in the world.
US has the largest inmates in the world.
289
Medical products must be tested (thoroughly and carefully)
rigorously
290
Good friends do not leave you (at a very difficult time).
Good friends never leave you in the lurch.
291
to act or continue in away that is uncontrolled and not regular, often with sudden changes.
We seem to lurch from crisis to crisis.
We seem to lurch from unachievable goal to another.
She just lurches from one bad relationship to another.
292
The police said offenders will be dealt with seriously.
The police said offenders will be dealt with sternly.
293
a rancid odour that made him feel inclined to vomit.
a rancid odour that made him nauseous
294
Crime rates are (increasing) round the world.
souring
295
He looked at her with (deep seriousness and sadness) expression.
he looked at her with a sombre expression.
296
A smile transformed his (serious) face
stern
297
a matter of important concern
| giving cause for alarm; serious
a matter of grave concern
298
When she's in a bad mood she's (unpleasant or rude) to everyone
When she's in a bad mood she's obnoxious to everyone
299
He became (terribly thin) due to illness.
emaciated
gaunt
300
The house looks empty and not attractive.
The house looks gaunt.
301
We are overwhelmed by a lot of endless new goals set by our boss.
We are swamped by a lot of endless new goals set by our boss.
We are inundated with a lot of endless new goals set by our boss.
302
The house looks stylish.
The house looks tasteful.
303
a figure to be strongly desired
a figure to die for
304
If a person is ___, they do not have a clear purpose in life or know what they want to do:
Da Silva plays a bright, lonely student from New York, staying without a clear purpose in small-town Arizona.
Da Silva plays a bright, lonely student from New York, adrift in small-town Arizona.
305
If plans go ___, they fail or do not produce the correct results:
Something seems to have (gone wrong) in our calculations.
Something seems to have gone adrift in our calculations.
306
A strike is likely to happen soon.
1x
A strike is imminent.
For a man in imminent danger of losing his job, he appeared quite unruffled.
Her remarks were intended to scotch rumours of an imminent election date.
He announced the imminent arrival of a messianic leader.
He gave a dire warning that an earthquake was imminent.
He warned that an enemy missile attack was imminent.
307
calm; not nervous or worried, usually despite a difficult situation.
I'm always calm under pressure.
unruffled
308
Recently ancient music has (gained popularity again).
Recently, there has been some revival of (interest in) ancient music.
309
Racism of any kind is (morally very bad) to me.
Racism of any kind is abhorrent to me.
310
Excessive managerial control is (harmful or limiting)to creative expression.
Excessive managerial control is inimical to creative expression.
311
(Language experts) attempt to preserve endangered languages.
Linguists
312
showing or describing the total destruction and end of the world, or extremely bad future events:
(devastating) visions of a nuclear confrontation
(devastating) warnings about our destruction of the environment
apocalyptic visions of a nuclear confrontation
apocalyptic warnings about our destruction of the environment
313
(make a hole or channel by digging)
excavate
dig out material from (the ground).
"the ground was largely excavated by hand"
extract (material) from the ground by digging.
"a large amount of gravel would be excavated to form the channel"
314
a large hole
pit
315
noun and verb
a site for the disposal of waste materials by burying it, especially as a method of filling in and reclaiming excavated pits.
landfill sites
Rubbish is buried in landfills.
316
used to express polite disagreement in a formal situation:
______, Sir, I cannot agree with your last statement.
With all due respect, Sir, I cannot agree with your last statement.
317
unable to control your feelings or behaviour because you are extremely frightened, angry, excited, etc.:
Calm down, you're getting hysterical.
The police were accused of hysterical over-reaction.
hysterical laughter (= uncontrolled laughter)
318
Religious people say prayers for the action of being rescued or set free.
Religious people say prayers for deliverance.
319
A feeling or opinion about something or someone, or a way of behaving.
A feeling or opinion about something or someone, or a way of behaving:
"He was questioned on his attitude towards South Africa."
It's often very difficult to change people's attitudes.
She takes the attitude that children should be allowed to learn at their own pace.
He has a very bad attitude to/towards work.
He seems to have undergone a change in/of attitude recently, and has become much more cooperative.
I don't like your attitude (= the way you are behaving).
That boy has a real attitude problem (= behaves in a way)
320
A natural ability to do something.
Aptitude
A natural ability to do something.
Kids nowadays have no has less aptitude for painting and drawing.
We will take your personal aptitudes and abilities into account.
321
justify or necessitate (a course of action).
The employees feel that industrial action is warranted.
322
officially affirm or guarantee.
The vendor warrants the accuracy of the report.
323
Punishment inflicted or retribution exacted for an injury or wrong.
Voters are ready to wreak vengeance on all politicians
324
the situation of being alone without other people:
a life of solitude
After months of solitude at sea it felt strange to be in company.
It provides one with a chance to reflect on spiritual matters in solitude
325
a remark or statement that may be true but is boring and has no meaning because it has been said so many times before:
He doesn't mouth platitudes about it not mattering who scores as long as the team wins.
Synonyms
bromide (COMMENT) formal
326
a large number of people or things.
"a multitude of medical conditions are due to being overweight"
327
a large amount or wide range:
The sheer amplitude of the novel invites comparisons with Tolstoy.
328
height above sea level:
We are currently flying at an altitude of 15,000 metres.
| Mountain climbers use oxygen when they reach higher altitudes.
329
without money, food, a home, or possessions:
destitute
The floods left thousands of people destitute.
330
the state of being certain or confident:
It is impossible to predict the outcome of the negotiations with any degree of certitude.
"the question may never be answered with certitude"
331
Her breathing was (irregular)
Her breathing was erratic.
332
If you describe something as __(adjective), you mean that it has only a slight or indirect connection with the thing you
Too much time was spent discussing tangential issues.
They thought the whole thing was a side-show, tangential to the real world of business.
333
Something that is ____ indicates that success is likely.
Synonyms: favourable, timely, happy, promising
His career as a playwright had an auspicious start.
334
If you describe someone or something as ______, you mean that they are unwilling to obey orders or are difficult to deal with.
Synonyms: disobedient, contrary, unwilling
2x
recalcitrant
defiant
335
the act of trying to achieve something:
pursuance
She has devoted herself to the pursuance of justice for her son.
In pursuance of his aims, he has decided to stand for parliament.
https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/pursuance?q=+Pursuance
336
an activity that you spend time doing, usually when you are not working:
I enjoy outdoor pursuits, like hiking and riding.
I don't have much opportunity for leisure pursuits these days
https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/pursuit?q=Pursuit
337
1) the act of putting or keeping someone in prison or in a place used as a prison:
2) the act of keeping someone in a closed place and preventing them from leaving it
Jail:
------
We’re spending billions of dollars each year on incarceration.
The prisoner was sentenced to five months of incarceration.
-----
Closed Room
----------------------
The housemates on the reality TV show are asked to survive incarceration for three weeks.
The girl’s four-month incarceration at the hands of her parents came to light yesterday.
338
Impossible to separate
"the past and the present are inextricable"
339
to separate things that have become joined or confused:
It's difficult to disentangle hard fact from myth, or truth from lies.
340
causing you to have fear or respect for something or someone because that thing or person is large, powerful, or difficult
a formidable obstacle/task
a formidable adversary/enemy/opponent
a formidable intellect
She was once a political nonentity, but has since won a formidable reputation as a determined campaigner.
She is a formidable figure who commands a great deal of respect .
My tennis is really improving - I've got a formidable two-handed backhand.
He worked in the property business for a number of years, acquiring a reputation as a formidable wheeler-dealer.
In Tyson he had come up against a formidable opponent.
341
the natural environment in which an animal or plant usually lives
habitat
342
allowing yourself to have or do things that you enjoy but do not need, especially if you do this too often – used to show disapproval
self-inˈdulgent adjective
allowing yourself to have or do things that you enjoy but do not need, especially if you do this too often – used to show disapproval
It feels self-indulgent spending so much on a pair of shoes.
343
If you allay a strong emotion felt by someone, such as fear or worry, you cause them to feel it less or to feel calm again:
The government is trying to allay public fears/concern about the spread of the disease
344
deserving great praise:
an award for meritorious service
