Prof. English Vocab Flashcards
(275 cards)
1
Q
a menu having individual dishes listed with separate prices
A
a la carte
2
Q
based on hypothesis or theory rather than experiment
A
a priori
“an a priori judgment”
3
Q
by ordering items listed individually on a menu
A
a la carte
“we ate a la carte”
4
Q
by surprise
A
aback
“taken aback by the caustic remarks”
5
Q
Behave in a way that belittles or degrades (someone), lower and humble oneself
A
abase
I watched my colleagues abasing themselves before the board of trustees
6
Q
derived by logic, without observed facts
A
a priori
7
Q
forsake; leave behind
A
abandon
“We abandoned the old car in the empty parking lot”
8
Q
give up with the intent of never claiming again
A
abandon
9
Q
having the wind against the forward side of the sails
A
aback
“the ship came up into the wind with all yards aback”
10
Q
having unlimited choices with a separate price for each item
A
a la carte
11
Q
leave behind empty; move out of
A
abandon
The sites are usually abandoned, leaving the land infertile and the water polluted.
12
Q
reasoned from a general principle to a necessary effect
A
a priori
13
Q
sung without instrumental accompaniment
A
a cappella
“they sang an a cappella Mass”
14
Q
without musical accompaniment
A
a cappella
“they performed a cappella”
15
Q
cause to be embarrassed
A
abash
I showed them it was sugar and they looked abashed.
16
Q
become less in amount or intensity
A
abate
Still, the storm shows few signs of abating.
17
Q
make less active or intense
A
abate
Surgery on the right ear diminished but did not completely abate her symptoms, so she underwent surgery on the left ear.
18
Q
the act of making less active or intense
A
abatement
The lawsuit is part of the city’s push to expand its nuisance abatement effort, which targets properties that are sources of drugs and gangs.
19
Q
an interruption in the intensity or amount of something
A
abatement
20
Q
give up, such as power, as of monarchs and emperors
A
abdicate
“The King abdicated when he married a divorcee”
21
Q
take away to an undisclosed location against their will
A
abduct
‘the millionaire who disappeared may have been abducted’
22
Q
pull away from the body
A
abduct
23
Q
markedly different from an accepted norm
A
aberrant
This somewhat aberrant behaviour requires an explanation
Indeed, it was aberrant of him to accept the job
24
Q
one whose behavior departs from the norm of a group
A
aberrant
25
assist or encourage, usually in some wrongdoing
abet
to abet a crime.
26
temporary cessation or suspension
abeyance
Let's hold that problem in abeyance for a while.
27
find repugnant
abhor
“She abhors cats”
28
dwell
abide
to abide in a small Scottish village.
29
put up with something or somebody unpleasant
abide
I can't abide dishonesty!
30
of the most contemptible kind
abject
“abject cowardice”
31
most unfortunate or miserable
abject
“the most abject slaves joined in the revolt”
32
showing utter resignation or hopelessness
abject
“abject surrender”
33
formally reject or disavow a formerly held belief
abjure
In a sober ceremony, the Mexica abjured their old religion and embraced Christianity.
34
wear away through erosion or vaporization
ablate
to ablate a metal surface with intense heat
35
remove an organ or bodily structure
ablate
36
the ritual washing of a priest's hands or of sacred vessels
ablution
37
any address at which you dwell more than temporarily
abode
38
housing that someone is living in
abode
Their house was more like a small castle than a humble abode.
39
to do away with; put an end to
abolish
to abolish slavery.
40
unequivocally detestable
abominable
an abominable crime
41
exceptionally bad or displeasing
abominable
The weather was abominable last week.
42
having existed from the beginning
aboriginal
43
relating to people inhabiting a region from the beginning
aboriginal
44
an indigenous person who was born in a particular place
aboriginal
45
failing to accomplish an intended result
abortive
the rebel officers who led the abortive coup were shot
46
exist in large quantities
abound
a stream in which trout abound.
The region abounds in coal.
47
alongside each other, facing in the same direction
abreast
They walked two abreast down the street.
48
being up to date in knowledge
abreast
to keep abreast of scientific developments; keeping abreast with the times.
49
lessen, diminish, or curtail; to deprive; cut off
abridge
to abridge a visit; to abridge one's freedom.
50
reduce in scope while retaining essential elements
abridge
to abridge a reference book.
51
to or in a foreign country
abroad
52
in a place across an ocean
abroad
53
far away from home or one's usual surroundings
abroad
54
revoke formally, to put aside formally, put an end to
abrogate
to abrogate a law.
55
exceedingly sudden and unexpected
abrupt
56
marked by sudden changes in subject and sharp transitions
abrupt
57
surprisingly and unceremoniously brusque in manner
abrupt
You were rather abrupt with that young man.
Many of the e-mails that I receive are written in an extremely rude and abrupt tone.
58
run away, often taking something or somebody along, especially to avoid capture and legal prosecution
abscond
The cashier absconded with the money.
59
grant remission of a sin to
absolve
The first sequence spoke to me of how merciful God is for absolving my transgressions.
60
excuse or free from blame
absolve
The court absolved her of guilt in his death.
61
choose not to consume
abstain
to abstain from eating meat.
62
refrain from voting
abstain
a referendum in which two delegates abstained.
63
existing only in the mind
abstract
64
not representing or imitating external reality
abstract
65
dealing with a subject without a practical purpose
abstract
66
hard to understand
abstruse
Now, this is not an abstruse philosophical distinction that we are seeking to make.
We are talking about design and visual culture here, after all, not abstruse aspects of philosophy.
67
lie adjacent to another or share a boundary
abut
This piece of land abuts on a street.
68
resembling an abyss in depth; so deep as to be immeasurable
abysmal
‘waterfalls that plunge into abysmal depths’
69
limitless or extremely bad
abysmal
But many schools serving the poor are of such abysmal quality that many children drop out of school in frustration.
70
a bottomless gulf or pit
abyss
71
yield to another's wish or opinion
accede
The authorities did not accede to the strikers' demand.
72
agree or express agreement
accede
to accede to a request; to accede to the terms of a contract.
73
take on duties or office
accede
Her first official visits came before she acceded to the throne.
74
stress or single out as important
accentuate
75
put stress on
accentuate
76
the act of attaining a new office or right or position
accession
accession to the throne.
77
the right to enter
accession
78
the right to all of that which your property produces
accession
79
a supplementary component that improves capability
accessory
80
an article worn to complement one's main clothing
accessory
81
someone who helps another person commit a crime
accessory
82
enthusiastic approval
acclaim
acclaim the new king.
83
praise vociferously
acclaim
to acclaim the conquering heroes.
84
clap one's hands or shout to indicate approval
acclaim
to acclaim the conquering heroes.
85
get used to a certain environment
acclimate
‘He has not yet acclimated to when our days and nights are.’
86
an upward slope or grade, as in a road
acclivity
‘Here and there, towers were perched high up on acclivities which seemed almost inaccessible.’
87
have room for; hold without crowding
accommodate
88
provide with something desired or needed
accommodate
89
provide a service or favor for someone
accommodate
90
a person who joins with another in carrying out some plan
accomplice
‘The chase ended with a crash as the car carrying the gunman and his accomplice left the road.’
91
concurrence of opinion
accord
‘the government and the rebels are in accord on one point’
92
sympathetic compatibility
accord
93
Approach and address (someone) boldly or aggressively.
accost
‘reporters accosted him in the street’
‘he was accosted by a thief, demanding his money or his life’
94
Clothe or equip in something noticeable or impressive.
accouter
‘magnificently accoutred, he was led up to the high altar’
95
grant credentials to
accredit
96
provide or send with official credentials
accredit
to accredit an envoy.
97
ascribe or attributed to
accredit
an invention accredited to Edison, He was accredited with having said it.
98
grow or become attached by accretion
accrete
‘ice that had accreted grotesquely into stalactites’
‘In the last ten years, it has accreted features and has become one of the most sophisticated calendar programs I've seen.’
99
grow by addition
accrue
‘Whatever benefits have already accrued to you, you'll be allowed to keep.’
‘Additional expenses also accrue from the testing of new units needed to complete the transfusion order.’
100
collect or gather
accumulate
101
sour or bitter in taste
acerbic
102
harsh or corrosive in tone, sharp and forthright
acerbic
‘He instantly wished he could take back the acerbic comment.’
‘His question wasn't acerbic, but quite inquisitive.’
103
the highest point of something, the highest level or degree attainable
acme
‘physics is the acme of scientific knowledge’
‘To achieve these effects is undoubtedly the acme of military skill.’
104
an assistant to a priest or minister in a liturgical service
acolyte
105
relating to the study of the physical properties of sound
acoustic
106
cause to come to know personally, inform
acquaint
‘I am not acquainted with any young lady of that name’
‘I'll leave you two to get acquainted’
107
make familiar or conversant with
acquaint
‘you need to acquaint yourself with the house style’
‘new staff should be acquainted with fire exit routes’
108
to agree or express agreement reluctantly but without protest
acquiesce
‘The police reluctantly acquiesced to the proposals given no alternatives were offered.’
‘Most ideologues, however, have grown accustomed in recent years to acquiescing in the decisions of the country's collective leadership.’
109
pronounce not guilty of criminal charges
acquit
‘she was acquitted on all counts’
‘The five officers were acquitted of manslaughter charges on the direction of the trial judge.’
110
Conduct oneself or perform in a specified way
acquit
‘While his performance during the exercise was not especially noteworthy, he acquitted himself satisfactorily overall.’
111
Unpleasantly bitter or pungent
acrid
‘Even twenty yards from the room, she could still smell the acrid green smoke.’
‘There was an acrid smell and smoke was starting to come under the door.’
112
marked by strong resentment or bitterness
acrimonious
‘an acrimonious dispute about wages’
‘Questions were raised about cost, in an atmosphere that grew increasingly acrimonious.’
113
a morbid fear of great heights
acrophobia
114
put in motion
actuate
‘the pendulum actuates an electrical switch’
‘When we actuated the gear lever, only the right main gear went down and locked into position.’
115
Make (someone) act in a particular way; motivate
actuate
‘Here I want to clear one thing, that it is not vanity that has actuated me to adopt the doctrines of atheism.’
‘Nevertheless if the claimant proves that the defendant was actuated by malice this defence will fail.’
116
The ability to make good judgements and take quick decisions.
acumen
‘she hides a shrewd business acumen’
‘He said pilots would be chosen for their tactical acumen, ability to learn quickly and common sense.’
117
demonstrating ability to recognize or draw fine distinctions
acute
‘For a 16 year old, I had an acute awareness of the world outside of my own little high school/town.’
118
to a sickening extent
ad nauseam
‘the phrase he repeated ad nauseam’
119
perform without preparation
ad-lib
‘The newsreader said ‘We'll be back for more of what appears to be an ad-lib speech from Mark Oaten’.’
120
remark made spontaneously without prior preparation
ad-lib
‘Some remember the ad-lib commentary you could provide just with a house mike during a practice.’
121
A proverb or short statement expressing a general truth.
adage
‘the old adage ‘out of sight out of mind’’
‘The old adage that more is not necessarily better is certainly the proverbial case here.’
122
impervious to pleas, persuasion, requests, reason
adamant
‘Many of them, I am afraid, are simply adamant in their views and are not interested in the evidence.’
‘The biotech companies remain adamant that they will not foot the bill, and that it is a matter for insurance by farmers.’
123
presnt as evidence for
adduce
‘a number of factors are adduced to explain the situation’
‘I do not see what responsibility the Minister of Police has for evidence adduced by Crown counsel during a trial.’
124
having or showing knowledge and skill and aptitude
adept
‘Emergency nappy changing is a skill most mothers become quite adept at.’
‘He had grown very adept at using the crutches and now spent less time in bed than ever before.’
125
someone who is dazzlingly skilled in any field
adept
‘But true adepts would never have been concerned with anything so vulgar as financial gain.’
‘Is one religion more valuable than another, just because its adepts adhere to one school of thought over another?’
126
follow through or carry out a plan without deviation
adhere
‘He began reproducing some pieces, adhering as closely as possible to the vivid colors of the originals.’
‘The industry's strategy is to adhere to the facts and procure accurate information from third party experts.’
127
stick to firmly
adhere
‘paint won't adhere well to a greasy surface’
128
a farewell remark
adieu
‘Anyway, it's very late, I'm very tired and very sick so I shall bid you all adieu!’
‘Before bidding her adieu, I said, ‘Saroja, you are dreaming of Utopia.’’
129
Break off (a meeting, legal case, or game) with the intention of resuming it later
adjourn
‘let's adjourn and reconvene at 2 o'clock’
‘The father-of-two appeared in court last month, but the case was adjourned until yesterday for reports.’
130
hear a case, sit as the judge at the trial or comeptition
adjudicate
‘we asked him to adjudicate at the local flower show’
‘Some of the Constitutional Court judges themselves took part in adjudicating the competing entries.’
131
bring to an end; settle conclusively
adjudicate
‘the case was adjudicated in the High Court’
‘She said these were the State agencies with the necessary expertise required to adjudicate on these matters.’
132
something added to another thing but not essential to it
adjunct
‘computer technology is an adjunct to learning’
For many men, playing the stockmarket is a profitable adjunct to supplement otherwise meagre incomes.
133
a person who is an assistant or subordinate to another
adjunct
‘The university might want to give some of these responsibilities to someone else, like an adjunct or a graduate student, for less money.’
‘Of course, line items must be included in the budget to cover adjuncts for parental leaves.’
134
a construction that extends the meaning of a word or phrase
adjunct
135
supervise or be in charge of
administer
‘Land boards, composed of elected and appointed members, administer the allocation of tribal land.’
‘All student organizations are administered by representatives.’
136
direct the taking of
administer
‘paramedic crews are capable of administering drugs’
‘As a retired military officer, Don was able to actually administer the oath of enlistment to his son.’
137
deserving to be admitted
admissible
‘The green card is given to foreigners who are admissible.’
‘All academic documents show the student admissible except for language proficiency.’
138
scold or reprimand fiercly
admonish
‘she admonished me for appearing at breakfast unshaven’
139
counsel in terms of someone's behavior, Advise or urge (someone) earnestly.
admonish
‘she admonished him to drink no more than one glass of wine’
‘Indeed, the Supreme Court has admonished us to leave such matters to Congress.’
140
quick or skillful or adept in action or thought
adroit
‘he was adroit at tax avoidance’
The series was also notable for the wonderfully adroit way it visually mixed the father's past and present.
141
servile flattery; exaggerated and hypocritical praise
adulation
‘he found it difficult to cope with the adulation of the fans’
‘He was not the sort of prince who adored flattery and adulation, public appearances and such.’
142
make impure by adding a foreign or inferior substance
adulterate
‘the brewer is said to adulterate his beer’
‘22 karat gold was invariably adulterated and actually only 20 or even 18 karat gold.’
143
Represent in outline, Indicate faintly
adumbration
‘Like any short introduction, it does not have time to say very much, but what it does say is enough to adumbrate the major ideas to follow.’
144
The arrival of a notable person or thing
advent
‘This debate did not begin yesterday or with the advent of New Labour in political office.’
‘The advent of e-mail has made communication a far quicker and more pleasurable experience.’
145
Happening as a result of an external factor or chance rather than design or inherent nature
adventitious
‘So far, the connection has been very adventitious.’
‘Light was excluded during this stage to prevent adventitious photodamage.’
146
One's opponent in a contest, conflict, or dispute
adversary
‘Davis beat his old adversary in the finals’
‘He was a vigorous adversary to opponents, but he was also a very fair and honest man.’
147
Preventing success or development; harmful; unfavourable
adverse
‘adverse weather conditions’
‘There is also the adverse publicity that could dog them for years to come.’
148
A difficult or unpleasant situation, a state of misfortune or affliction
adversity
‘resilience in the face of adversity’
‘The next 12 months will be crucial in establishing whether he can cope with adversity.’
149
give advice to
advise
150
inform somebody of something
advise
151
a person who pleads for a person, cause, or idea
advocate
152
a lawyer who pleads cases in court
advocate
153
speak, plead, or argue in favor of
advocate
154
armor plate that protects the chest
aegis
155
The protection, backing, or support of a particular person or organization
aegis
‘the negotiations were conducted under the aegis of the UN’
‘We're seeing a joining of the virus, hacker and spam scenes under the aegis of organised crime.’
156
Acceptable or valid, especially as evidence in a court of law
admissible
‘the tape recording was admissible as evidence’
157
Concerned with beauty or the appreciation of beauty, designed to give pleasure through beauty
aesthetic
‘There are two traditional views concerning what constitutes aesthetic values.’
‘Quite apart from its aesthetic appeal, the design enhances the acoustics much as a cello itself does.’
158
Friendly, good-natured, or easy to talk to
affable
‘an affable and agreeable companion’
‘Alex should retain his very affable and amiable nature.’
159
Behaviour, speech, or writing that is pretentious and designed to impress
affectation
‘First names are not used, a classic public school affectation.’
‘She smiled and decided to drop her officious speech affectation.’
160
A written statement confirmed by oath or affirmation, for use as evidence in court
affidavit
‘a former employee swore an affidavit relating to his claim for unfair dismissal’
‘When carrying out the enquiry the Court acts upon affidavits rather than oral evidence.’
161
Officially join or become attached to an organization, dmit as a member
affiliate
‘Get your student union or community organisation to affiliate to the union.’
‘the main party agreed to affiliate four Conservative associations’
162
Stick, attach, or fasten (something) to something else.
affix
‘My photo is affixed to this document, and has an official stamp from the government.’
‘The patch is actually affixed to the skin and releases a steady stream of hormones.’
163
A cause of pain or harm, The state of being in pain
affliction
‘He listens to everyone and removes the pains and afflictions of all.’
‘I never saw such a picture of forlorn affliction and distress of mind.’
164
having a great deal of money; wealthy
affluent
‘The Government wants to redistribute wealth from more affluent areas to deprived parts.’
‘The advertisers deny they are specifically targeting gay consumers, one of the most affluent groups.’
165
An action or remark that causes outrage or offence
affront
‘We weren't insulted at such an affront to our easy going, leisurely ways.’
‘Articles of this sort are an affront to those who died.’
166
Offend the modesty or values of
affront
‘Joel looked slightly affronted by that question but smiled.’
‘Some were affronted that he brought into daylight memories best burried.’
167
Into conflict or difficulty with
afoul
‘Running afoul of the regime, he was forced to seek asylum in a neighbouring country.’
‘I don't know if that was the problem or if something else went afoul.’
168
The consequences or after-effects of a significant unpleasant event.
aftermath
‘food prices soared in the aftermath of the drought’
‘The ultimate concern is to get a country back on to its feet in the aftermath of conflict.’
169
wide open in surprise or wonder
agape
‘With my mouth agape I shook her hand, dumbfounded.’
‘At his slightly overwhelmed expression and agape jaw, she snorted bitterly.’
170
A list of items to be discussed at a formal meeting
agenda
‘the question of nuclear weapons had been removed from the agenda
‘Our meetings no longer have agendas or redundant handouts, we don't need them.’
171
A plan of things to be done or problems to be addressed.
agenda
‘he vowed to put jobs at the top of his agenda’
‘I find that my own plans and agendas are none of anybody else's business.’
172
The underlying intentions or motives of a particular person or group
agenda
‘Miller has his own agenda and it has nothing to do with football’
‘There is no room for hidden agendas.’
173
Increase the power, status, or wealth of
aggrandize
‘The party needs the army to win the war and stabilize and even aggrandize its own power.’
‘She has used that skill to protect her friends and aggrandize herself.’
174
Enhance the reputation of (someone) beyond what is justified by the facts
aggrandize
‘he hoped to aggrandize himself by dying a hero's death’
‘They'd risk aggrandising themselves and diminishing or insulting their subject.’
175
Make (a problem, injury, or offence) worse or more serious.
aggravate
‘military action would only aggravate the situation’
‘The negative publicity surrounding OxyContin has aggravated a longstanding problem.’
176
Notice or attention given to someone or something by the media
publicity
‘The organisers were embarrassed by the unfavourable media publicity.’
‘Their purpose is to call attention to their agenda and to get free publicity in the news media.’
177
The giving out of information about a product, person, or company for advertising or promotional purposes
publicity
‘His department has spent millions on adverting and publicity in just one year.’
‘By this, she means the seemingly endless publicity tour to promote the movie‘
178
A person or country that attacks another first
aggressor
‘I would have attacked my aggressors whether they were stronger than me or not.’
‘Plants have developed mechanisms to protect themselves from invading pathogens and aggressors.’
179
Filled with horror or shock
aghast
‘Like so many of your correspondents I am aghast and ashamed.’
‘People are truly aghast by what had to have been a pre-mediated attack.’
180
Able to move quickly and easily, Able to think and understand quickly
agile
‘Ruth was as agile as a monkey’
‘He is in effect trapped within his body as his mind remains agile.’
181
Of similar character
akin
‘something akin to gratitude overwhelmed her’
‘This is an experience that cannot be replicated outside a university or something at least akin to it.’
182
Brisk and cheerful readiness
alacrity
‘That is why he will agree to your proposition with alacrity.’
‘They break from defence into attack with alacrity.’
183
A recess in the wall of a room or garden
alcove
‘Looking around the room again, he discovered an alcove in the wall next to the table.’
184
A reason given in justification of a course of action that is not the real reason
pretext
‘the rebels had the perfect pretext for making their move’
‘Government officials have used concern for real estate value as pretexts for such abuses.’
185
A claim or piece of evidence that one was elsewhere when an act, typically a criminal one, is alleged to have taken place
alibi
‘she has an alibi for the whole of yesterday evening’
‘The letter was written on the managing editor's computer, but he has an alibi.’
186
Make (someone) feel isolated or estranged.
alienate
‘an urban environment which would alienate its inhabitants’
‘These people were alienated from the society they wished to deliver from exploitation.’
187
Make (someone) become unsympathetic or hostile
alienate
‘the association does not wish to alienate its members’
‘The problem with this tactic, however, is that it frustrates and alienates your family and friends.’
188
Relieve or alleviate
allay
‘the report attempted to educate the public and allay fears’
‘Our long association has taught me that confiding in others allays pain.’
189
Claim or assert that someone has done something illegal or wrong, typically without proof
allege
‘he alleged that he had been assaulted’
‘The alleged bribes were channelled through a number of companies set up for the purpose.’
190
Loyalty or commitment to a superior or to a group or cause
allegiance
‘He would be compromised by his party allegiance.’
‘I thought all people must pledge their allegiance, or be categorised accordingly.’
191
Give or apportion (something) to someone
allot
‘equal time was allotted to each’
‘Much of the human population there lacks the essentials, so of course homeless dogs and cats are allotted next to nothing.’
192
Divide up and share out
apportion
‘voting power will be apportioned according to contribution’
‘But he apportioned a share of the blame to the bank itself.’
193
Suggest or call attention to indirectly; hint at
allude (to)
‘she had a way of alluding to Jean but never saying her name’
‘Vampires were a great excuse for Victorian writers to allude to sexuality, which they couldn't mention in any other way.’
194
Not friendly or forthcoming; cool and distant
aloof
‘Tessa's tone was cool and aloof, but Rogers could sense the apprehensive undertone.’
‘We keep our distance, lower our expectations, stay cool, aloof, and separate.’
195
About to happen or appear
forthcoming
‘She will perform with Opera Ireland during their forthcoming spring season.’
‘The FBI is currently investigating, and thus far no announcements appear forthcoming.’
196
Willing to divulge information
forthcoming
‘I immediately liked the fact that he was open and forthcoming.’
‘Doctors and receptionists should be forthcoming with this information.’
197
A noisy argument or disagreement, especially in public
altercation
‘I had an altercation with the ticket collector’
‘He was a gentleman and even when involved in altercations, took the role of mentor rather than an aggressor.’
198
selfless concern for the well-being of others
altruism
‘some may choose to work with vulnerable elderly people out of altruism’
‘No one should imagine media corporations are suddenly guided by selfless altruism.’
199
Gather together or accumulate (a large amount or number of material or things) over a period of time
amass
‘he amassed a fortune estimated at close to a million pounds’
‘Only organizations had the resources to amass large amounts of consumer information.’
200
Open to more than one interpretation; not having one obvious meaning
ambiguous
‘The evidence is ambiguous and interpretations have become polarized.’
‘Much of the report contains many ambiguous or misleading statements.’
201
The state of having mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something or someone
ambivalence
‘There is deep British ambivalence about openly acknowledging this.’
"Ambivalence and indecision meant that decisions were forced upon them by events on the ground.’
202
Make (something bad or unsatisfactory) better.
ameliorate
‘the reform did much to ameliorate living standards’
‘It makes constructive suggestions as to how the laws may ameliorate some of the adverse impacts on young people.’
203
Open and responsive to suggestion; easily persuaded or controlled
amenable
‘It was hoped by employers that the new working class would be more amenable than the old.’
‘And, if the law needed to be changed, she believed Justice Minister Michael McDowell was amenable.’
204
Make minor changes to in order to make it fairer or more accurate, or to reflect changing circumstances.
amend
‘the rule was amended to apply only to non-members’
‘We seek to amend that document in some minor respects.’
205
A desirable or useful feature or facility of a building or place
amenity
‘the property is situated in a convenient location, close to all local amenities’
‘Basic amenities including toilet facilities and drinking water would be provided.’
206
Having or displaying a friendly and pleasant manner
amiable
‘the amiable young man greeted me enthusiastically’
‘Balard had a kind and amiable personality, to which students responded warmly.’
207
Not quite right; inappropriate, wrong or out of place
amiss
‘there was something amiss about his calculations’
‘Obviously little would need to go amiss for the financial plan to go awry.’
208
An official pardon for people who have been convicted of political offences
amnesty
‘The government is to discuss a general amnesty for prisoners convicted of crimes that might be politically motivated'
‘He immediately issued an amnesty for those convicted since October 1968.’
209
Lacking the sense of and unconcerned with the rightness or wrongness of something
amoral
‘Who will follow their conscience when it conflicts with the demands of an amoral authority?’
‘An amoral society may have its advantages, but a fertile field for greatness is not one of them.’
210
Reduce or pay off (a debt) with regular payments
amortize
‘eighty per cent of the proceeds has been used to amortize the public debt’
‘The following year a sinking fund was established in an effort to amortize the debt.’
211
Behave uncontrollably and disruptively
run amok
‘stone-throwing anarchists were running amok’
‘The film's fiction has nature running amuck as a result of toxic waste, dumped out of corporate greed.’
212
Provide interesting and enjoyable experience for (someone); entertain
amuse
‘They amused themselves digging through an old encyclopedia’
‘They claim it will achieve its goals to welcome, accommodate, entertain and amuse visitors.’
213
A comparison between one thing and another, typically for the purpose of explanation or clarification.
analogy
‘One might draw an analogy between Johnson's approach and President Bush's reliance on faith-based initiatives.’
‘Another illustration that he gives is an analogy between words and pieces in a chess game.’
214
Something or someone that one vehemently dislikes
anathema
‘Such open displays of patriotism are anathema to today's liberal journalists'
‘Being such a private man, this was anathema to him, to be exposed publicly.’
215
Strong hostility
animosity
‘he no longer felt any animosity towards her’
‘The visit heralds the restoration of diplomatic ties after decades of political animosity.’
216
Destroy utterly; obliterate
annihilate
‘A three-month bombing campaign nearly annihilated the city.’
‘These therapies help to annihilate the root cause of ailments and stimulate a person's natural healing power.’
217
Add notes to (a text or diagram) giving explanation or comment
annotate
‘Brown annotates every deliberate inaccuracy in the book's notes.’
‘We were annotating our map as we went along, noting the date we passed a place.’
218
Declare invalid (an official agreement, decision, or result)
annul
‘the elections were annulled by the general amid renewed protests’
There is provision for parliament to declare a state of emergency and annul the results.
219
Cause (someone) to become hostile
antagonize
‘Why go out of the way to offend and antagonize religious people?’
‘She antagonised her civil servants, infuriated her leaders, insulted colleagues.’
220
A deep-seated feeling of aversion.
antipathy
‘This affects my entire perception of the city, filling me with disquiet, antipathy and even a certain revulsion.’
‘Davis will begin his second term under clouds of apathy, if not antipathy.’
221
Diametrically opposed to
antipodal
‘Since about 80% of the world's land is antipodal to ocean, this list is necessarily very short.’
222
Old-fashioned or outdated
antiquated
‘We see a lot of antiquated regulatory enforcement systems in various parts of the world.’
‘Hard cases make bad law, but antiquated conventions make bad legal practice.’
223
1A person or thing that is the direct opposite of someone or something else
antithesis
‘That selfish behavior is the antithesis of what ‘good’ Christians are taught.’
‘Fixed identities rooted in the past represent the antithesis of historical thinking.’
224
Lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern
apathy
‘He also signalled the need for politicians to combat public apathy by re-establishing trust.’
‘This shows apathy on the part of the Government to the problems of the common man.’
225
An opening, hole, or gap
aperture
‘the bell ropes passed through apertures in the ceiling’
‘Unfortunately the aperture was just a couple of centimetres too narrow.’
226
Self-confidence or assurance, especially when in a demanding situation
aplomb
‘The film is a celebration of marching through all these obstacles with aplomb.’
‘Despite the heartache James must be feeling, he's still dancing with aplomb.’
227
Giving the worrying impression that something bad is going to happen
ominous
‘there were ominous dark clouds gathering overhead’
‘His dark, ominous eyes bore testament to the fact that he was dangerous.’
228
Greatly dismay or horrify
appall
‘bankers are appalled at the economic incompetence of some ministers’
‘Residents in Victoria Street were today appalled that such a crime occurred on their doorsteps.’
229
Pacify or placate (someone) by acceding to their demands
appease
‘amendments have been added to appease local pressure groups’
‘The only thing that it can do now to appease the people would be to resign.’
230
Anxious or fearful that something bad or unpleasant will happen
apprehensive
‘he felt apprehensive about going home’
‘Her arms are crossed and her face apprehensive, but she claims she's not nervous.’
231
Inform or tell (someone)
apprise
‘I thought it right to apprise Chris of what had happened’
‘When requested by a student, family members were apprised of the difficulties faced by the student.’
232
Appropriate or suitable in the circumstances
apt
‘I spoke to two senior players last night and it is apt to say that they are confused.’
‘Not completely traditional, it was an apt end to a fine conference.’
233
A natural ability to do something
aptitude
‘He has leadership ability and the aptitude to learn from mistakes.’
‘A similar argument could be made for selecting children with an aptitude for music.’
234
A person who settles a dispute or has ultimate authority in a matter
arbiter
‘the Secretary of State is the final arbiter’
‘Courts are to be arbiters of disputes, not policymakers.’
235
Based on random choice or personal whim, rather than any reason or system.
arbitrary
‘Why couldn't people see that tradition, while rather arbitrary, was the only fair way to do things?’
‘I prefer to have my laws built on reason rather than arbitrary morality.’
236
Understood by few; mysterious or secret
arcane
‘Einstein proceeds to describe with arcane mathematics and symbols his theory of relativity.’
‘But in the arcane world of Commonwealth Games eligibility, nothing is simple.’
237
Very old or old-fashioned
archaic
‘prisons are run on archaic methods’
‘Most of the diseases she did not know, and she began to lose hope since most of the writing was ancient and archaic.’
238
A very typical example of a certain person or thing
archetype
‘he was the archetype of the old-style football club chairman’
‘They're also examples of two completely different archetypes of the baseball character.’
239
An original which has been imitated; a prototype
archetype
‘an instrument which was the archetype of the early flute’
‘An instant classic of its kind, it was the lively and original archetype for fantasy across the board.’
240
Very enthusiastic or passionate
ardent
‘Tom was expected to poll well but the size of his vote took even his most ardent supporters by surprise.’
‘Among Southeast Asian countries, Singapore has been an ardent supporter of free trade.’
241
Involving or requiring strenuous effort; difficult and tiring
arduous
‘Before becoming a Mass server one had to learn the Latin responses and this was a long and arduous task.’
‘This is a long and arduous task, one that the authorities admit has had only very limited success to date.’
242
too dry or barren to support vegetation
arid
‘The inhabitants are dependent on crop farming which is difficult in the arid land.’
‘The arid land of this autonomous republic supports only a nomadic lifestyle.’
243
An agreement made by opposing sides in a war to stop fighting for a certain time; a truce
armistice
‘The battle for civilisation is not going to end with an armistice or some form of negotiated settlement.’
‘News of the armistice had reached the troops but the actual order to cease fire was still on the way to the front.’
244
Call or bring (someone) before a court to answer a criminal charge
arraign
‘her sister was arraigned on charges of attempted murder’
‘He was arraigned earlier and the trial judge would not accept his plea of guilty.’
245
An ordered series or arrangement
array
‘several arrays of solar panels will help provide power’
‘The multi-function, dual-face active array radar provides targeting data for the missile system.’
246
Behind with paying money that is owed
in arrears
‘A number of property owners are in arrears with payment of rates and taxes.’
‘The wife has complained that at various times the husband's spousal support payments fell in arrears.’
247
Take or claim (something) without justification
arrogate
‘A monarch would attempt to arrogate power to himself, as do all the current Middle Eastern kings.’
‘It is doubtful that the US can successfully arrogate this privilege only to itself.’
248
A collection of weapons and military equipment
arsenal
‘Russia does possess an arsenal of nuclear weapons that it inherited from the Soviet era.’
‘The 1968 treaty did nothing to reduce the arsenals of existing nuclear weapons powers.’
249
Having or showing skill in achieving one's ends by deceit or evasion
cunning
‘Observations suggest they try a cunning psychological ploy to prevent their partner fleeing the nest.’
‘He raised £10 million in less than a month, thanks to a particularly cunning manoeuvre.’
250
Having or showing the ability to speak fluently and coherently
articulate
‘He was a coherent, intelligent and articulate man but one with a tendency to ramble on.’
‘He is articulate, charismatic and persuasive.’
251
Having a position of dominant power or influence
ascendancy
‘Suburban car culture is gaining ascendancy in Toronto, as can be seen on every corner.’
‘Following his downfall, the conservatives in economic and religious positions are in the ascendancy.’
252
Find (something) out for certain; make sure of
ascertain
‘A fire investigation team will try to ascertain the exact cause.’
‘There's an awkward pause as we try to ascertain the seriousness of the situation.’
253
Characterized by severe self-discipline and abstention from all forms of indulgence
ascetic
Sufism emphasises the more mystical and ascetic aspects of the religion.
Buddhism requires ascetic behaviour, including fasting, by its monks, but not from other followers.
254
Regard something as being due to (a cause)
ascribe
‘he ascribed Jane's short temper to her upset stomach’
‘He ascribed the poor results to poverty and the lack of resources at most schools.’
255
very pale with shock, fear, or illness
ashen
‘As soon as I reached my work place I saw ashen faces and tears in the eyes of my colleagues.’
‘His face was ashen by this point, and he could barely hear his own voice.’
256
Extremely stupid or foolish
asinine
‘Lydia ignored his asinine remark’
‘Now, allow me to explain why the preceding statements are so utterly asinine.’
257
With an attitude or look of suspicion or disapproval
askance /əˈskans/
‘Canadians might look askance at this, given their attitude towards many things American.’
‘Many people look askance at pension companies and pension salespeople.’
258
Not in a straight or level position
Askew
‘His thick eyeglasses were slightly askew, but otherwise he was impeccable.
‘The posts would be different sizes of papers laid out, slightly askew, all over the table.’
259
An attack on the reputation or integrity of someone or something
aspersion
It was outrageous that his integrity had been questioned and aspersions cast on his character.
I said candidly that I could hardly cast aspersions on his choices.
260
Having ambitions to achieve something, typically to follow a particular career
aspirant
The warm-ups were an education for me both as an aspirant conductor, and as a researcher.
The Department clearly recognised and accepted the difficulties that aspirant university colleges would face.
261
A hope or ambition of achieving something
aspiration
‘Until reality can catch up with aspirations, this emotional deprivation will continue.’
‘The team was well prepared and focussed and had genuine aspirations of bring home the cup.’
262
come upon (someone) suddenly and strongly
assail
‘As I visited the old houseI was assailed by familiar feelings of disgust.’
‘Terrors assailed him, tumbling over one another.’
263
The expression of approval or agreement
assent
‘There were murmurs of assent before the messenger replied.’
‘He stared at me for a moment and then finally nodded in assent.’
264
State confidently and forcefully
assert
‘the company asserts that the cuts will not affect development’
‘He confidently asserts that the tapes are not faked.
265
Cause others to recognize one's authority or a right
assert
‘I hope they realize that asserting authority doesn't necessarily make us any safer.’
‘Women are rightfully asserting themselves in the labor movement.’
266
Assess the value or quality of
appraise
‘The bids schemes are appraised to see if they are achieving their targets.’
The problem of how to appraise the quality of qualitative studies remains.’
267
Showing great care and perseverance
assiduous
‘The manager has the right to expect that his workers will be careful and assiduous.’
‘Great advances were achieved simply by the work of an assiduous and committed group of women on a massive scale.’
268
Take in and understand fully (information or ideas)
assimilate
‘Marie tried to assimilate the week's events’
‘A motion to adjourn and reconvene in six days so that directors could assimilate the new information
269
Absorb and integrate (people, ideas, or culture) into a wider society or culture.
assimilate
‘pop trends are assimilated into the mainstream with alarming speed’
‘Even the worst decisions are eventually assimilated into the culture of commerce.’
270
Make (an unpleasant feeling) less intense
assuage
‘the letter assuaged the fears of most members’
‘It helps exonerate us, assuages our panic and provides a focus for our disdain and hate.’
271
Relating to or resembling the stars
astral
‘The two men had cited example after example of marriages full of astral promise turning disastrous.’
‘The clear African sky at night, with its infinite astral array
272
Sharp or severe in manner or style
astringent
‘His less astringent manner could help him forge the strategic relationships his father couldn't.’
‘They wanted us to talk about our problems,’ His voice was astringent with sarcasm and cynicism.’
273
Having or showing an ability to accurately assess situations or people and turn this to one's advantage.
astute
‘Unlike some sportsmen, he has been astute enough to invest in a financial future during his playing days.’
‘In the last general election no one, not even the most astute of pundits, foresaw his demise.’
274
Relating to or characterized by reversion to something ancient or ancestral
atavistic
‘Religion is pictured as old-fashioned, atavistic and dogmatic, defending superstition.’
‘One minor agony of growing up in Northern Ireland is the atavistic tugging of ethnic loyalty.’
275
Make amends or reparation
atone
‘Is it possible for that family to make amends and atone for its ill-gotten gains?’
‘I realized that the decency of one man atones for the indecency of millions.’
