IELTS3

Economize

Housewives can [...] by buying their milk in gallon containers.

explicate

How can we best _________ 'King Lear' and understand it? to explain an idea or a work of literature in a lot of detail

mind of her own

I advised her to take the job offer, but she has a ______ of her ____, so I don't know what she'll decide. the ability to act or think independently

forte

I am better than Jack in English and social studies but not in math; that is his [...].

condone

I cannot ________ the use of violence under any circumstances. to accept or forgive behaviour that most people think is morally wrong

dead duck

I don't care how much skill he has. If he can't play under pressure he's a ____ _____. not competitive, not viable

hastily

I may have acted ______. perhaps too quickly

harbouring

I think he's ___________ some sort of grudge against me. to keep bad thoughts, fears, or hopes in your mind for a long time

a bad taste in people's mouths

I think we all felt that he'd been treated unfairly and it left a ___ _____ in people's ______. left an unpleasant memory behind

trepidation

I thought Carol would be nervous when she made the speech, but she delivered it without [...].

put it down to experience

-I'm so ashamed. I let him take advantage of me. -Don't be so hard on yourself. Just ____ it down ___ ________. when instead of being upset about something bad, you will learn from it

catch a few rays

I thought I'd take my lunch outside and _____ a few _______. to lie or sit outside in the sun

garnet

A mineral like _________, for example, has a number of varieties. a dark red stone used as a jewel

on location

A movie was shot ___ _______. away from the studio

harassed

A number of black youths have complained of being ___________ by the police. to make sb's life unpleasant, for example by frequently saying offensive things to them or threatening them

impediment

A speech ___________ did nothing to stop him from preaching. a physical problem that makes sth difficult

topple

A stack of plates swayed, and began to ______ over. to become unsteady and then fall over, or to make something do this

clown show

A stupid show

immolate

A suicide squad was formed of women ready to __________ themselves if the pageant went ahead. to kill sb by burning them

oversee

A team leader was appointed to __________ the project. supervise

overpass

A train was going by on the ________. a structure like a bridge that allows one road go over another

abscond

A wide research is underway for the manager who [...] with $100000 of his employer's funds.

self-assured

A woman's voice came on the line, firm and _____-_______. calm and confident about what you are doing

conciliatory

Abraham Lincoln made ______________ gestures toward the South at the end of the Civil War. making concesions to reconcile or comfort

reconcile:

After our quarrel, my brother and I refused to talk to each other until our Mother [...] d us.

with their tails between their legs

After playing so badly for the entire game, the team walked off ____ their _______ between ____ _______. ashamed and embarrassed

penury

After ten years of __________, it's good to be financially secure again. extreme poverty

sedulous

After years of ___________ research, the researchers discovered a cure. diligent, hardworking

diffident

Alan's __________ nature is often misinterpreted as arrogance. lacking self-confidence, shy and timid

mettlesome

Alice's ____________ attitude was infectious and inspired us all to press on. courageous, high-spirited

addled

All that drink has _______ his brains! to confuse someone so they cannot think properly

pedestrian

Although the film received critical acclaim, its ______________ plot has been overused by screenwriters for decades. commonplace, trite

droll

Although they're full of ______ talk and amusing mannerisms, they are still necromancers. amusing in an unusual way

take kindly

Americans don't ________ ______ to being told what to say. to not like sth that sb says or does

conspicuous

Among the Manhattan's skyscrapers, the Empire State Building is [...] for its superior height.

undersigned

Among the [...]d in the petition to the governor were some of the most prominent persons in the state.

enamoured

An English settler became [...]d of the beautiful princess and married her.

unwary

An [...] pedestrian is more like to be struck by a car than those who looks both ways and crosses with the light,

inlaid

An _______ piano-stool, went for £125 while two bedroom mirrors made £140. that has little pieces of another material set into its surface for decoration

depreciate

Automobiles [...] rapidly; a $2500 car is worth less than $2000 with a year of purchase. The building superintendent feels depreciated if you refer to him as the "janitor".

tainted

Baker argues that his trial was ________ by negative publicity. it makes the person or situation seem bad

overload

Be careful not to _________ the washing machine. to put too many things or people on or into something

lucrative

Because his gas station did not produce a sufficient profit, the owner decided to go into a more [...] business.

adverse

Because of the [...] reviews, the producer announced that the play will close with tonight's performance.

overgenerous

Because the service was poor; Mom thought Dad was overgenerous in leaving the waiter a 15% tip

.foreword:

Before Chapter I, there is a brief [...] in which the author explains why he wrote the book.

impregnable

Before World War II, the French regarded their Maginot Line as an [...] bulwark against a German invasion.

benediction

Before beginning his difficult journey, the young man visited his parents to receive their [...] .

heedless

Before his injury, he used to jump from the stairs, [...] of the "No Jumping" sign. Now he pays attention to it.

credibility

Believability, trustworthiness

belligerent

Bert still likes to settle his arguments with his fists. When will he learn that it's childish to be so [...] ?

simpered

Betsy ________ at him as she spoke. to smile in a silly annoying way

interlude

Between World War II and the Korean War, there was a five-year [...] of peace.

inducements

Businesses were offered ____________ to move to the area. a reason for doing something, especially sth that you will get as a result

degenerate

But for the skill of the presiding officer, the debate [...] into an exchange of insults.

head and shoulders

But the surgery has given him confidence to stand _____ and _______ above the rest. to be much better than other people

pyre

But what if everything was burned on a _____ sixty years ago? a high pile of wood on which a dead body is placed to be burned in a funeral ceremony

interdict

By 1411 Hus had become so influential that Prague was laid under papal ________. an official order from a court telling someone not to do something

indigence

By hand work, countless thousands of Americans have raised themselves from [...] to wealth.

contravene

By invading the neutral nation, the dictator [...]ned his earlier pledge to guarantee its independence.

imminent

By the sudden darkening of the skies and a thunder in the distance, we could tell that the rain was [...].

incipient

Certain serious diseases can be successfully treated if detected in [...] stages.

sartorial

Certainly, 'hyperwhite' seems a good word for the _______ choices of paradigmatic nerds. relating to the making of clothes, usually men's clothes, or to a way of dressing

vitiate

Changes at this point may actually _________ the entire system. to make sth less effective

amicable

Charlotte is an [...] child; everybody likes her.

confer

Consult, compare views; bestow or give

ripple effect

Court rulings often have a ______ _______, spreading into areas of law that weren't part of the original cases. to affect something else, which then affects other things

obsequious

Donald acted like Susan's servant, obeying her every request in an _________ manner. excessively compliant or submissive

pending

Has a decision been reached on a date for the game, or is it still pending? Barbara agreed to conduct the meeting [...] the election of a permanent president.

lavished on

He ______ attention ___ her. to give sb a lot of love, praise, money etc

went off the rails

He ______ off the ______ in his twenties and started living on the streets. to start behaving strangely or in a way that is not acceptable to society

virulent

He had developed a vaccine using _________ forms of polio. very dangerous and affects people very quickly

sank like a stone

He had published two novels, both of which ______ like a ______. to fail completely

requisites

He lacked the moral __________ for marriage. sth needed for a particular purpose

hard stuff

He likes a drop of the ____ _______. alcoholic drink

captors

He managed to escape from his __________. sb who is keeping another person prisoner

as sharp as a tack

He may be old in years, but he's still ____ _______ as a ______ and knows what he's talking about. intelligent

wreak

He promised to _______ vengeance on those who had betrayed him. to do sth unpleasant to sb to punish them for sth they have done to you

parched

He raised the water bottle to his ________ lips. very dry

did a job

He really ____ a ______ on her, telling her how much he loved her and then leaving her. to hurt or damage

incriminate

He refused to answer questions for fear he might ________ himself. to make someone seem guilty of a crime

a hand

He scored one goal and had a ______ in two others. to influence or be involved in something

disconsolate

He was _________ after his divorce. extremely sad and hopeless

prime mover

He was a _____ ________ in developing a new style of customer-friendly bookshops in the UK. sb who has a lot of influence in starting sth important

chunk of change

He's probably got enough money to buy a little ranch somewhere and still have a _____ of ________ left over. a large amount of money

gluttony

Helen's fried chicken tastes so divine, I don't know how anyone can call ________ a sin. overindulgence in food or drink

libel

Holt sued the newspaper for ______. when someone writes or prints untrue statements about someone so that other people could have a bad opinion of them

vituperation

The speeches were full of _________ and slander. angry and cruel criticism

hair stand on end

The thought of jumping out of an aeroplane makes my _____ _____ on _____. to make someone feel very frightened

got my *fingers* badly *burnt*

I tried a dating agency once, but got my _______ badly _____ - I'll never do it again. (to suffer the unpleasant results of something that you have done)

burning

I was _______ to know how he had got on in New York. (to want to do or find out something very much)

forsake

I won't _______ my conservative principles. to give up, renounce

entrenched

In the small towns racial prejudice was deeply __________. (strongly established and not likely to change - often used to show disapproval)

lame duck

In under two years, it was transformed from a state-owned ______ __________ into a successful company. sb that is in trouble and needs help

alias

Inspector Javert discovered that Monsieur Madeleine was not the mayor's real name but an alias for Jean Valjean, an ex-convict. Jean Valjean, [...] Monsieur Madeleine was arrested by Inspector Javert

enervate

Irma was so [...]d by the broiling sun that she nearly fainted.

behoves

It __________ us to think of these dangers. it's right, necessary or useful to do it

self-indulgent

It feels _____-_______ spending so much on a pair of shoes. allowing yourself to have or do things that you enjoy but do not need

self-evident

It is _____-_______ that childhood experiences influence our adult behaviour. clearly true and needing no more proof

anachronism

It is an [...] ism to say that William Shakespeare "typed" his manuscripts.

afflicts

It is an illness which __________ women more than men. to make people suffer

interlinear

It is difficult to make [...] notes if the space between lines is very small.

overburden

It would [...] me to have a piano lesson Thursday because I have so much homework on that day.

feckless

Jake's ___________ performance led to his termination from the team. incompetent, ineffective, careless

outgoing

Jamie is a friendly, __________ woman. that likes to meet and talk to new people

plaintive

Janice's _______________ voice made me decide to stay and comfort her longer. expressing sorrow

breathed her last

Jay made the trip north to be with his mother when she ______ her ____. to die

get a jump

Job listings are updated continuously on our website, so you can ____ a ______ on your competition. to get an advantage by doing sth before sb else

jocund

Julie's ____________ nature makes it a pleasure to be near her. merry, cheerful

sliver

Just a _______ of cake for me, please. a very small thin piece

dates

Knowing that song ______ you. It was popular in the 1950s. tells your age; when you were born

turn their hand

Larry's one of those men who can _____ their ______ to anything. to do something well, even if it is the first time you have tried

preview

Last night, my parents attended a [...] preview of a play scheduled to be open next Tuesday.

felony

Leach was charged with sexual assault, which is a _______ in Connecticut. a serious crime

immanent

Love is a force _________ in the world. present everywhere

afflictions

Malnutrition is one of the common ___________ of the poor. sth that makes you suffer

ingenious

Many fish have ________ ways of protecting their eggs from predators. which works well and is the result of clever thinking and new ideas

ambivalent

Many members were ____________ about the process. not sure whether you want sth or not

verged

Many of Lewis's activities ________ *on* the illegal. (to be very close to a harmful or extreme state)

deciduous

Maple, elm, birch and other [...] trees lose their leaves in the fall.

non sequiturs

Marcus's argument started off strong, but it degenerated into a series of ____ _______. a conclusion that doesn't logically follow from the evidence

efficacious

Margaret's _____________ approach to her job in the collections department made her a favorite with the CEO. acting effectively, producing the desired effect

grafts

Martha had to have several skin _________. a piece of healthy skin or bone taken from sb's body and put in or on another part of their body that has been damaged

antithesis

Martin's liberal parenting style is the _____________ of my conservative style. the direct or exact opposite

outspoken

Marty sometimes hurts others when he criticizes their work because he is too [...]

platitudes

Matthew offered me several ___________ but no real advice. a trite or banal statement

adjoin

Mexico [...]s The United States.

at the ready

Military police leapt out of the car, their weapons ___ the ______. ready for use

compatible:

Miss Evans knows that Authur and I can not be on the same committee. We are not [...].

agitate

Mix the two solutions together and _________ the bottle. to shake or mix a liquid quickly

replenish

More vaccines are needed to __________ our stocks. to put new supplies into something, or to fill something again

incarcerate

On July 14, 1789, the people of Paris freed the prisoners [...]d in the Bastilles.

infirmity

On leaving the hospital, the patient felt almost too weak to walk, but he soon overcame this [...].

denizen

On the safari, the hunters stalked lions, tigers and other ferocious [...] of the jungle.

fell into place

Once I discovered that the woman I had seen him with was his daughter, everything ____ into ______. to make sense

vacant

Only a few apartments were still _____. empty and available for someone to use

meek

Only two of the girls protested when ordered off the field. The rest were too [...] to complain.

self-reliant

Our aim is to teach our son to become an independent, ______-________ adult. able to do or decide things by yourself, without depending on the help or advice of other people

superabundance

Our committee does not need any more help. We have a [...] of helpers.

foreshadow:

Our defeat in the championship game was [...] by the injuries to two of our star players in a previous game.

allegiance

People of various party _________ joined the campaign. a continued support for a political party, religion, ruler, etc

Avarice

People who suffer [...] spend less and save much more than they should.

disperse

Police used tear gas to _________ the crowd. make people go away in different directions

demur

Polly hated to _________, but she didn't think adding so much garlic was a good idea. to raise objections

head to head

Rather than go ___ to _____ with their main rivals, they decided to try a more subtle approach. to deal with or oppose someone in a very direct and determined way

converged

Reporters ________ on the scene. come from many different places and meet together to form a large crowd

leveraged

Reusable software is ___________ across many applications. to spread or use resources again in several different ways or in different parts of a company, system etc

philistine

Richard thinks he is a cosmopolitan, but he's really just a ____________. a smug, ignorant person

tip her hand

Rumours still abound about Saling's next project but the actress has so far refused to ____ her _____. to let other people know what you are planning to do

tycoon

Rupert Murdoch was an newspaper ________. person who is successful in business or industry and has become rich and powerful

ambidextrous

Russ is an [...] hitter; he can bat right-handed or left-handed.

pellucid

Senator Waterson's ____________ argument made me change my vote. very clear, easy to understand

contravention

Sending the troops was a __________ of the treaty. violation

recast

She _______ her novel as a musical comedy. to change the form of sth

overdressed

She felt _____________ in her smart suit. dressed in clothes that are too formal for the occasion

saw the light

She finally ____ the _____ and ended the relationship. to realize that something is true

coy

She gave him a ____ smile. shy or pretending to be shy in order to attract people's interest

perfunctory

She gave him a _________ smile. done quickly, only because people expect it

exiguous

She gulped it down, paid the __________ dispensing fee, and left the premises. very small in amount

inexhaustible

She seems to have ________ energy. that will always continue

starchy

She spoke in a rather _______ manner. very formal and correct in your behaviour

unabashed

She stared at him with ___________ curiosity. not ashamed or embarrassed

bad-mouthing

She's always ____-_____ her colleagues. to say unpleasant things about sb, esp. to spoil other people's opinion

nattering

She's been __________ on about the wedding for weeks. to talk continuously about unimportant things

litigation:

Some business disputes can be settled out the court; others require[...]

imperious

Stell was relieved with her new job transfer because she would no longer be under the control of such an _____________ boss. overbearing, bossy

enervate

Stephanie's cutting remarks managed to ___________ Harry. to weaken

hedging

Stop ________ and tell me what you really think. to try to avoid giving an answer or taking any action

malingering

Stop ____________ and give me a hand with this job. to pretend to be ill in order to avoid work

standstill

Strikers brought production to a __________. a situation in which there is no movement or activity at all

abduct

The Greeks attacked Troy to recover Helen, who had been [...] by the Trojan prince Paris.

insurgent

The King promised to pardon any insurgent who would lay down his arms. General Washington led the[...] forces in the Revolutionary War.

relent:

The Mayor has banned all lawn sprinkling because of water shortage. However, if the reservoirs fill up, he may [...] somewhat.

perfidious

The ____________ knight betrayed the king. treacherous, dishonest

infrastructure

The basic framework of a building or a system

careened

The bus __________ off the road and plunged into a river. to move forwards quickly, going from side to side

self-supporting

The business will soon become _____-_________. able to earn enough money to support yourself

assay

The chief engineer wanted a laboratory to _________ the steel. to try, put to a test, examine

vaunted

The country's _______ educational system is not as good as once thought. praised or talked about too much and in a way that is too proud

mollified

The crying child was quickly ______________ by her mother. to soothe the anger of

tenuous

The cultural and historical links between the many provinces were seen to be very __________. unsubstantial, weak

undulated

The curtains ___________ in the breeze. to move in waves or in a wavelike fashion

colossal

The game will be played in a [...] sports arena with a seating capacity of 600000 people

leeway

The government does not have much ________ in foreign policy. freedom to do things in the way you want to

exculpated

The grand jury ____________ local authorities for their handling of the riots. to prove that sb is not guilty of sth

precepts

The headmaster reviewed the _____________ of the school with the students. a rule establishing standards of conduct

deter

The heavy rain did not [...] people from coming to the school play. Nearly every seat was occupied.

devour

The hikers were so hungry that they [...]ed the hamburgers as fast as they were served.

equanimity

The hostage negotiator's ____________ during the standoff was remarkable. calmness of temperament

Impoverish

The increase in dues is only 10 cents, it won't [...] any member

disenfranchise

The independent monitors were at polling locations to ensure neither party tried to ______________ incoming voters. to deprive of the rights of citizenship, especially the right to vote

mirth

The joyous wedding celebration filled the reception hall with _____ throughout the evening. great merriment

adjourn

The judge [...]ed the court to the following Monday.

firing line

The judge found himself on the ______ ____ from women for remarks he made about discrimination in the workplace. in a situation that attracts criticism

premediated

The jury decided that the blow was struck at the time of panic and had been [...].

absolution

The jury granted Anna the ____________ she deserved. a formal declaration of forgiveness

hit the dirt

The kid next door threw a rock at him, but Ted _____ the ________ and the rock didn't hit him. to fall to the ground suddenly to avoid danger

proscribe

The king ___________ the worship of idols in his kingdom. to prohibit, forbid

regaled

The king ____________ his guests until the early morning hours. to delight, entertain with a splendid fest

barren

The land was _________ and people couldn't grow any plants there. infertile

extorting

The landlord tried to cover his losses by _________ high rents from tenants. to illegally force sb to give you money by threatening them

for the birds

The last scheme you came up with was really ___ the ______. worthless

numbers

The last thing we want is *teaching by* _______. (in a basic way by following a set of simple instructions - used to show disapproval)

prescribe

The law prescribes that aliens may not vote. Her physician [...] some pills, a light diet and plenty of rest.

purports

The letter ______________ to express your opinion on the matter. to be intended to seem

incise

The letters on the monument had been [...]d by a chisel.

daunt

The lightning did little to ______ local golfers. to make sb feel afraid or less confident

lying through his teeth

The man's ________ through his ______. He never said anything of the sort. to tell someone something that you know is completely false

upcoming

The management will be glad to email you its " Future Attractions" leaflet which contains news of [...] films.

put a lid

The mayor wants to ____ a _____ on spending. stop sth from increasing

congregation

The minister addressed the [...] on the importance of brotherhood.

benefactor

The museum could not have been built without the gift of a million dollars by a wealthy [...]

inscribe

The name of the winner will be [...] on the medal.

enlighten

The new student was going to in the wrong direction until someone [...] him that his room was at the end of the hall.

obviates

The new treatment ________ the need for surgery. eliminate

vigilance

The night watchman who apprehended the thief was praised for his [...].

antagonize:

The official [...] the leader of his party by accusing him of cowardice.

skirts

The old footpath _____ around the village. to go around the outside edge of a place or area

provident

We have to be vaguely ___________, but no real sacrifices are demanded. careful and sensible in the way you plan things, especially by saving money for the future

amity

We must look ahead when the dispute is over and [...] is restored.

acquitted

Yesterday all the petty criminals were _________! to decide officially that someone is not guilty of a crime

Divulge

Yesterday our teacher read us a composition without [...] the name of the writer.

rogue

Yesterday, that ___________ hid all of my cooking utensils! a mischievous person

bet your life

You ______ your ________ there are a lot of politicians who are more interested in getting elected than they are in solving problems. to be certain that sth will happen or be true

tutelage

You can attend embroidery classes under the ________ of Jocelyn James. when you are taught or looked after by someone

malleable

You should be able to convince Andrea quickly - she's quite a ___________ person. easily controlled or influenced

deride

You shouldn't ________ their efforts. to make remarks or jokes that show you think sth is silly or useless

watch your step

You'd better ____ your ____ - he's the boss here. to be careful about what you say or how you behave

elbow grease

You'll need to use some ______ _____ to get that floor clean. hard work and effort, especially when cleaning or polishing something

intransigent

Young children can be _____________ when it comes to what food they will eat. unwilling to compromise

affable

courteous and pleasant, sociable, easy to speak to

contraband

customs officials examined the luggage of the suspected smuggler but found no [...]

slanderous

damaging to a person's reputation

perilous

dangerous

gloomy

darkness, sadness, rejection

liability

debt

encroachment

gradual intrusion

mercenary

greedy

complicated

hard to understand; elaborate; complex; intricate

diligent

hardworking, industrious, not lazy

cursory

hasty

abhor

hate

luscious

he watermelon were very [...]. Everyone wanted another slice

sabotage

[...] something to prevent something from being successful or being achieved, especially deliberately Protesters failed to sabotage the peace talks. The rise in interest rates sabotaged any chance of the firm's recovery.

attribute

[...] something to something to say or believe that something is the result of a particular thing She [...]s her success to hard work and a little luck.

By degrees

____ ________ the country began to question the decisions their leaders were making. in small stages

Day in, day out

_____ ___ _____ ____, she walked to work. I saw her every morning. every day

outbound

_______ traffic moving away from you or away from a town, country etc

Momentous

________ events are taking place in the US. very important because it will have a great influence on the future

Bereaved

________ family members are demanding more information about the plane crash. having lost a close friend or relative because they have recently died

Shards

________ of glass have been cemented into the top of the wall to stop people climbing over. a piece of a broken glass, cup, container or similar object

savoir faire

_________ ______ is essential if you want to be a successful diplomat. knowledge of the right thing to do or say in a social situation

grandiose

_________ buildings very large or wonderful

overladen

_________ buses filled with too many people or things

infantile

_________ jokes childish

Matrimony

__________ has completely changed his attitude towards life. the state of being married

Relinquishing

___________ the quest for revenge has given him release. to stop having or doing something

wry

a ____ comment showing that you find a bad or difficult situation slightly amusing

self-seeking

a ____-_______ politician doing things only because they will give you an advantage

vapid

a ______ TV announcer lacking intelligence, interest, or imagination

phoney

a _______ American accent false or not real, and intended to deceive someone

reconditioned

a _________ engine to repair something, especially an old machine, so that it works like a new one

tumbledown

a ___________ cottage old, beginning to fall down

keep pace with

We get regular pay raises that are supposed to ___ ____ _____ inflation. to stay at the same level

chinwag

We had a good _________ over a bottle of wine. a long and pleasant conversation between friends

at the crack of dawn

We had an early flight so we were up ___ the _______ of ________. very early in the morning

protract

We had planned to stay for only lunch but, at the host's insistence, we [...] our visit until after dinner.

rigmarole

We had to go through a great deal of ___________ to get this approved. a complicated, petty procedure

oversupply

We have a shortage of unskilled technicians but an [...] of unskilled workers.

run dry

We have been told the Social Security trust fund will _____ _____ in a few more years. to be all used up

peripheral

not as important as the main aim, part, etc. of something peripheral information matters of [...] concern Do not spend too much time on the peripheral questions because they are only worth ten percent of the test grade. Despite the loss of a few peripheral functions, the airplane will still be able to land safely

oblivious

not aware of or not concerned about what is happening around one.

indifferent

not caring one way or the other

conspicuously

noticeably

observant

obeying laws, religious rules, etc.

counteract

to do something to reduce or prevent the bad or harmful effects of something She liked to keep busy all the time to [...] the feelings of uselessness that overcame her whenever she had nothing to do.

outperform

to do well in a particular job or activity compared to others of a similar type: The company has consistently [...]d its rivals this season.

circumscribe

to draw a circle around; to restrict

accentuate

to emphasize

elude

to escape notice; to get away from

found

to establish; to set up on a firm basis

scrutinize

to examine closely

surpass

to exceed or go beyond

elaborate

to explain in greater detail

utter

to express by speaking

intrigue

to fascinate

decipher

to figure out

ascertain

to find out the true or correct information about something

constrain

to forcibly restrict

envisage

to form a mental picture He [..]s an era of great scientific discoveries.

composure

mental calmness

recur

to happen many times or to happen again: Water, a symbol of life, [...]s as an image throughout her poems. If the symptoms [...], visit your doctor.

lethargy

lack of energy; sluggishness

apathy

lack of interest

superficial

lacking in depth

emissary

messenger

cajole

to make somebody do something by talking to them and being very nice to them synonym coax [...] somebody (into something/into doing something) He cajoled me into agreeing to do the work. cajole something out of somebody I managed to cajole his address out of them.

inflict

to make somebody/something suffer something unpleasant

creep

move slowly

swift

moving very fast

hone

to make something perfect or completely suitable for its purpose The tennis player practices several hours a day to hone her skills. Because Jessica wants to hone her cake baking ability, she can usually be found in the kitchen. The apprentice will [...] his mechanical expertise under a mentor and then open his own garage.

dramatize

to make something seem more exciting or important than it really is Don't worry too much about what she said—she tends to [...] things.

dispute

to make the subject of verbal controversy, debate

condone

to pardon or overlook

lure

to persuade or trick somebody to go somewhere or to do something by promising them a reward synonym entice The child was [...]d into a car but managed to escape.

feign

to pretend

avert

to prevent to turn away

strave off

to prevent something bad from affecting you for a period of time; to delay something to stave off hunger The company managed to [...] bankruptcy for another few months

endow

to provide with a quality, a thing, or a gift of money

bewilder

to puzzle completely, confuse

revitalize

to refresh

recuperate

to regain health or strength

exemplify

to serve as a good example

rerun

to show a television programme, film, etc. again: The James Bond movies are always being [...] on television.

underprivileged

needy or disadvantaged

debilitate

# invigorate The patient was [...] by the fever that he lacked the strength to sit up

Pertinent

# irrelevant Stick to the point; don't give the information that is not [...]

diurnal

# nocturnal during the day Unlike most other bats, this species is [...]

decrepit

# sturdy He went past the redcoats on a horse that looked [...] and about to collapse.

definitive

# tentative, provisional Remember that your answer will be treated as [...] . You will not be permitted to change it.

persist

#desist The teacher told Eric to stop whispering. When he [...], she sent him to the dean. The rain was supposed to end in the morning, but it persisted through the afternoon and evening.

blustered

'That's hardly the point,' he ________. to speak in a loud angry way that is not really very impressive

definitive

(adj.) conclusive, final, representing the limit of what can be done

prone

(adj.) lying face down; inclined, likely

ample

(adj.) more than enough, large, spacious

radiant

(adj.) shining, bright; giving forth light or energy

astute

(adj.) shrewd, crafty, showing practical wisdom

immense

(adj.) very large or great; beyond ordinary means of measurement

indiscriminate

(adj.) without restraint or control; unselective

misgiving

(n.) a feeling of fear, doubt, or uncertainty

rugged

(of land) wild and not even; not easy to travel over: [...] landscape/terrain/hills/cliffs

coarse

(of skin or cloth) rough [...] hands/linen opposite smooth, soft The [...]ness of the cloth irritated her skin. I can't stand his [...]ness and stupidity.

assimilate

(v.) to absorb fully or make one's own; to adopt as one's own; to adapt fully

nurture

(v.) to bring up, care for, train, nourish; (n.) rearing, training, upbringing

consolidate

(v.) to combine, unite; to make solid or firm

elicit

(v.) to draw forth, bring out from some source (such as another person), to obtain

encompass

(v.) to encircle, go or reach around; to enclose; to include with a certain group or class

assent

(v.) to express agreement; (n.) agreement

convey

(v.) to transport; to transmit; to communicate, make known; to transfer ownership or title to

belabor

(v.) to work on excessively; to thrash soundly

one step ahead

A good teacher is always at least one ____ _____ of his students. to be better prepared for something or know more about something than someone else

legislature

A group of people who have the power to make laws

solitary

A hermit leads to a [...] existence.

craven

A hero risks his life to help others, a [...] runs from the scene.

quashed

A hospital chief executive has ________ rumours that people will lose their jobs. to say or do something to stop something from continuing

bourgeois

A house in the suburbs, two children, two cars and three TVs are key indicators of a _________ lifestyle. typical of the middle class

ridge

A long, narrow chain of hills or mountains

instil

A manager's job is to _______ determination into his players. to teach someone to think, behave, or feel in a particular way over a period of time

negligently

A manufacturer _________ made and marketed a car with defective brakes. without realizing ones responsibilities

prerequisite:

A mark of a least 75% in Basic Art is a [...] for Advanced Art.

hegemony

A military takeover in the impoverished country secured the ___________ of the Centrist Party in its bid for power. predominant influence or leadership

incontinent

A person who is constipated may also be __________ of faeces because there is leaking around the hard mass. unable to control the passing of liquid or solid waste from your body

preclude

A prior engagement [...] precludes my coming to your party.

adage

A proverb, wise saying

estrange:

A quarrel over inheritance [...] brothers for many years.

expedient

A quick divorce was an _____________ end to the couple's two-month marriage. appropriate for a purpose, a suitable means to an end

from pillar to post

Abernathy couldn't stick to one project and was always dashing from _______ to _____. from one place or thing to another in rapid succession

altercation

According to witnesses, the _________ between the two men started inside the restaurant. a loud argument or disagreement

feet of clay

After all, audiences want to be entertained, not see their idols with _____ of _____. if sb has faults and weaknesses that you did not realize they had

expunge

After finishing probation, juveniles can petition the courts to ___________ their criminal records. to wipe or rub out, delete

gravelly

After four weeks they still had not got used to the _________ voice and the song that seemed to lie in it. which has a low rough sound

tenacious

After the dog got the ball, I tried to dislodge it from her [...] jaws, but I couldn't.

impending

After the first flash of lightning, people scurried for the shelter from the [...] storm.

gamut

After the test,I thought at first I had done very well, then quite well and finally poorly. I ran the gamut from confidence to despair.

convicted

After the trial McVeigh was _________ and sentenced to death. to prove or announce that someone is guilty of a crime

desolate

After the war, the villagers hope to return their desolate homes. After 5:30am, the normally crowded intersection looks [...].

churlish

Alice's ___________ remarks made everyone at the table uncomfortable and ill at ease. ill-mannered, boorish, rude

at his feet

All Paris was ___ his ______. used to say that people admire or respect someone very much

handlers

All food ___________ should be properly trained. sb who touches, carries or moves sth as their job

glib

All of those _______ egotistical talk show hosts annoy me. speaking easily but without thinking carefully

hackneyed

All those slogans we used to chant sound so __________ now. boring and without much meaning because it has been used so often

infractions

Alleged _________ would be referred to the County Attorney for prosecution. an act of breaking a rule or law

animus

Although Howard defeated me in the election, I bear no [...] towards him; we are good friends.

libertine

Although he is quite a ________ with the women, this particular President, I understand. someone who leads an immoral life and always looks for pleasure, especially sexual pleasure

imbroglio

An _____________ developed when the bus drivers went on, leaving thousands of commuters stranded on the bus station. a confused, difficult situation, usually involving disagreement

kiln

And now I could feel my face getting hot, like I was working around a ______. a special oven for baking clay pots, bricks etc

claret

And now for something completely different: cheap and cheerful ______. red wine from the Bordeaux area of France

slander

And that statement is not meant to ________ anybody. to say false things about someone in order to damage other people's good opinion of them

reticent

Angela is very _____________, so don't expect her to tell you much about herself. tending to keep one's thoughts and feelings to oneself

bravado

Anne's __________ often got her in trouble with other kids in the neighborhood. false courage

on its head

Another basic political problem here is that the Dole message turns history ____ its _____. to make people think about something in the opposite way to the way it was originally intended

field day

Any bacteria that may be in the food will have a _____ _____ and grow. to have a chance to do a lot of something you want

at the hands

Anyone who suffered ____ the ______ of care workers will be entitled to compensation caused or done by a particular person

Adhere

Apply the stickers according to direction , or it will not [...]

out of hand

Aromatherapy was dismissed ____ of ______ by traditional doctors. without even stopping to consider what someone has suggested, asked for etc

dazzled

As children, we were _________ by my uncle's good looks and charm. to make someone feel strong admiration

undercarriage

As he pushed the nose down for the final approach, he extended down the _________. the wheels of a vehicle and the structure that holds them

whiff

As she walked past, I caught a _____ of her perfume. a very slight smell of something

took to their heels

As soon as they saw the soldiers coming, they ______ to their ______. to run away quickly

veritable

As the pretended heirs of Peter Wills were disposing of the fortune, the [...] heirs arrived.

hale and hearty

At 77 he is ______ and _____, getting up at six every morning to walk three miles. healthy and strong

infelicity

At best, her remark was an ________. not appropriate, not correct for a particular situation

permeate

At breakfast, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee [...] the kitchen and dining room.

hold water

At first I was persuaded by the politician's speech, but upon reflection, I decided her arguments didn't _____ ______. to seem logical and consistent

brazen

At first I was scared, but as I went on, I became more ________. not embarrassed about behaving in a wrong or immoral way

bewildered

At first she was _________ by all the noise and activity of the city. totally confused

overmuch

At his age, he didn't care _________ about impressing people. too much

inbound

At least 1,000 passengers were stranded at the airport as _______ flights throughout the day were diverted to Portland. arriving

underpaying

At one point Truitte realized that he had been __________ Alvin by a large amount. to pay someone too little for their work

aggregation

At the airport, the homecoming champions were welcomed by the [...] of admirers.

proponent

At the budget hearing, both the [...]s and opponents of the tax increase will be able to present their views

friction:

At the budget hearing, there was considerable [...] between supporters and opponents of higher taxes.

leading the field

At the end of the second day's play, Ballasteros is _________ the ______. to be likely to win

surmount:

At the end of the third quarter, the visitors were ahead by 18 points, a lead that our team was unable to [...].

the cold shoulder

At the party, Carl tried to talk to Suzanne, but she gave him ___ ______ ______. to ignore someone deliberately

pittance

At those low wages, few apply for the job. Who want to work for a [...].

atrocious

Aufull

perennial

Authors have come and gone, but Shakespeare has remained a [...] favorite. Perennials bloom year after year.

withering

Be prepared to question this if you want to, and do not retreat from any _________ looks. that makes someone feel stupid, embarrassed, or lose confidence

grandeur

Because I wanted to spend the night in a room of [...], I paid several thousand dollars to stay in the hotel's presidential suite.

quintet

Because it has five players, a basketball team is often called a [...]

pressing:

Before preparing tomorrow's party, I have some more [...] matters to attend to , such as finishing reports.

meticulous

Before signing a contract, one should read carefully, including the fine print. This is one case where it pays to be [...].

adversary

Before the contest began, the champion shook hands with his [...].

foreboding:

Before the day of the accident, I had a [...]that something would go wrong.

sullen

Bill sat in ________ silence and refused to eat his lunch. angry and silent, especially because you feel life has been unfair to you

erratic

Billionaire Howard Hughes's reclusive behavior during his final years can easily be called ________. odd, eccentric

discord:

Billy Budd put an end to the [...] aboard the right-of-man. He was an excellent peacemaker.

lugubrious

Billy looks like a fool, acting so ______________ over losing a silly bet. excessivery mournful or dismal

providential

Blackwell's arrival at that moment was __________. lucky

standby

Board games are a good _________ to keep the children amused if the weather is bad. sth which is always ready for use, especially if a regular one fails

facetious

Bob meant it when he said he was quitting the team. He was not being [...].

inconsequential

Both stand for precisely the same ____________ things. not important

cower

Brave men defy tyrants, instead of [...]ing before them.

wily

Breen had a reputation for being a tough and ____ negotiator. cunning

odds

Briggs found himself at ______ with his colleagues. to disagree

larceny

Brook now faces probable jail after an indictment for ________. the act or crime of stealing

chronology

Bruce named all the Presidents, but he made an error in [...]

wrangles

Bureaucratic __________ were conspicuous at every level. a long and complicated argument

rangy

Burun's eldest son was a tall _____ man with a lot of muscle and sinew. with long thin strong legs

battening

Businesses are focused on survival - everyone's ________ down the hatches. to prepare yourself for a period of difficulty or trouble

fever pitch

By the time the princess appeared on the balcony, excitement among the crowd was at _____ _______. when people's emotions have become so strong that they can only just control themselves

self-denial

By these standards, the monks' ____-______ seems tame. when you do not do or have the things you enjoy for moral or religious reasons

entail:

Can you family afford the extra expense a larger apartment [...]?

disingenuous

Car's __________ comments were not taken seriously by anyone in the room. insincere, calculating

foregoing:

Carefully review the [...] chapter before reading any further.

chronic

Carl's sore arm is not a new development, but the return of a [...] ailment. Rhoda is a chronic complainer. She is always dissatisfied.

maladjusted

Carlo was [...] in the early stages, not because of poor intelligence but because he couldn't speak English.

slumped

Carol ________ back in her chair, defeated. to fall or lean against something because you are not strong enough to stand

extenuating

Caroline believed that Jack would be less upset about her lateness after he had heard the ___________ circumstances. to lessen or seem to lessen in seriousness by excuses

sodden

Caught in an unexpected rainstorm, I was _____________ by the time I reached the bus stop. thoroughly soaked

gratuitous

Certain scenes in action films are too violent and __________. unnecessary

dent

Cheap goods from overseas could severely [...] the company's sales. The appearance of these cheap goods from abroad has severely [...]d the company's sales.

voracious

Chester would not be overweight if he were not a [...] eater.

galumphing

Children were __________ around the stage. to move in a noisy, heavy, and awkward way

first-hand

Clara knew from ____-_____ experience that living in a foreign country would be difficult. experience etc that has been learned or gained by doing something yourself

voluble

Clarissa was extremely ________ on the subject of good manners. talking a lot or talking quickly

overlies

Clay __________ chalk in the southern mountains. to lie over sth

impose

Cleaning up after the job is the repairman's responsibility. Don't let him [...] it on you.

bolstered

Coach Edmond's speech ________ the team's confidence. to hearten, support

decidedly

Cole's style is _______ more formal than the previous manager's. definitely

chastised

Coleman _________ the board for not taking action sooner. to criticize someone severely

élan

Collins' story was filmed with real intelligence and _______. a style that is full of energy and determination

indomitable:

Columbus had an [...] belief that he would reach the land by sailing west.

disparage

Comedians often ________ politicians as part of their comedic routines. to speak in a derogatory way

abeyance

Construction of the highway is in _____________ until we get agency approval. suspension

covet

Cory [...]ed his neighborhood's farm but couldn't get her to sell it.

simian

Creationists do not believe that humans have ____________ ancestors. of or like an ape or monkey

at variance:

Cythia is an independent thinker. Her opinions are often [...] with those of the rest of the class.

misgiving:

Dad has no [...] when my mother takes the wheels because she is an excellent driver.

discontent

Dan was [...] at his French mark; he had expected at least 10 points more.

go to his head

Dave really let his promotion ____ to his ______. make them feel more important than they really are

malevolent

David Balfour visits his [...] uncle who tries to kill him.

undue

De Gaulle felt that America had ______ influence in Europe. more than is reasonable, suitable, or necessary

sketchy

Details of the accident are still ________. not thorough, without enough details

opulence

Dicken contrasts the [...] of French's nobility with the indigence of her peasants.

wince

Did I hurt you? - I thought I saw you ______. to show pain briefly and suddenly in the face, often moving the head back at the same time

Improvise

Did the entertainer prepare his jokes before the program, or[...] them as he went along

depose

Did the king abdicate or was he [...] ?

foremost:

Did you know Benjamin Franklin was one of the [...] inventors of the eighteenth century?

precede

Did you report follow or [...] Jane's ?

volition

Did your employer dismiss you,or did you leave of your own [...]?

insubordinate

Do as Mother says. If you are [...], Father will probably hear.

keep your head down

Do what you're told and ______ your ____ down. to try to avoid being noticed or getting involved in something

velocity:

Do you know that light travels at a velocity of 186000 miles a second?

tag along

Do you mind if I _____ _______? I'd like to see the show at the museum too. to follow or go with sb when you were not invited

beating a dead horse

Do you think it's worth sending my manuscript to other publishers or I am just _______ a _____ ______? to waste time doing something that has already been attempted

impute

Doctors ____________ the reduction of cancer deaths to the nationwide decrease in cigarette smoking. to attribute to a cause

take it amiss

Don't ____ it ____ - I was just teasing. to feel upset or offended about something that someone has said or done

unbiased

Don't ask the mother of a contestant to serve as a judge because it may be hard for her to remain [...].

pugnacious

Don't be so ______________ - I don't want to fight. contentious, eager to fight, quarrelsome

peccadillo

Don't make such a big deal out of a little ___________. a trivial offense

wet behind the ears

Don't rely on his advice about girlfriends; he's still ____ behind the _____. immature, inexperienced and naive

brooding

Don't sit at home ________ all day. to keep thinking about sth that you are worried or upset about

overdose

Don't take more medicine the doctor ordered; an [...] may be dangerous.

hair-raising

Driving through the mountains was a ____-_______ experience. frightening

ran amok

Drunken troops ____ _____ in the town. to suddenly behave in a very violent and uncontrolled way

ungainly

Ducks are _________ on land. awkward

dither

During a crisis, it's important to have a leader who will not ___________. to hesitate, be indecisive or uncertain

intermission

During the [...] between the first and second acts, you will have a chance to purchase refreshments.

inchoate

During the _____________ stage of fetal growth, it's difficult to distinguish between a cow, a frog and a human. not yet fully formed, just begun

newsreels

During the communist regime government had __________ produced that cast a positive light on often unfair government policy. a short cinema film of recent event

exigency

Economic _______ obliged the government to act. the difficulties of a situation, especially one which causes urgent demands

toiled

Edmund _____________ for hours before solving the problem. to work laboriously

discrepancy:

Eighty students came to the dance but only seventy-four tickets were collected. Can you account for this [...]?

refractory

Elena is a counselor for ____________ children in an alternative school setting. resisting control or discipline.

forcible

Elizabeth watched with fascinated horror the ____________ feeding practised on the poor children. done using physical force

inhibit

Ellen told the child not to cry, but he could not [...] his tear.

surly

Emily received a _______ greeting from the normally cheerful receptionist. bad-tempered, gruff

a hair's breadth

Enemy forces are within a ______ ______ of the city. a very small distance or amount

in great demand

Engineering and science graduates are ___ great _______ this year. needed or wanted

armhole

Entering the measurements is quite straight forward, except when it comes to the __________ measurement for set-in sleeves. a hole in a shirt, dress, jacket etc that you put your arm through

laudable

Equal pay for equal work is a _________ principle. deserving praise, even if not completely successful

disbarred

Estrada was fired from his job and ____________. to stop a lawyer from doing any legal work

surplus

Ethiopia has no _______ food. more than what is needed or used

vigil

Eva and Paul kept a constant ______ by their daughter's hospital bedside. a period of time, especially during the night, when you stay awake

stolid

Eva is a very ___________ person, so it's difficult to tell how she feels. not feeling or showing emotion, impassive

commodious

Even during changes of classes, there is no crowding because the halls and stairways are [...]

innocuous

Even seeming _________ words can be offensive if used in the wrong context. not at all harmful or controversial

indiscriminate

Even so-called 'tactical' nuclear weapons are _____________ in their effect. done without thinking about what harm it might cause

finale

Every skit in our class show was loudly applauded from the opening scene to the [...].

Contend:

Every spring, baseball writers try to predict two teams that will [...] in the next world series.

voluptuous

Everyone turned to look at Gordon and his ________ mistress as they entered the room. that has large breasts and a soft curved body

aghast

Everyone was _______ at the verdict. feeling or looking shocked by sth you have seen or just found out

gregarious

Except for hermits and recluses, who shun company, most people are [...] .

unanimous

Except for one student, who voted "no", the class was [...] in holding the party.

Cogent

Excuses for not handing work in on time vary. Some are flimsy, as, for example, " I left it at home". Others are more [...], such as a physician's notes.

foothold

Extreme right-wing parties gained a ________ in the latest European elections. a position from which you can start to make progress and achieve your aims

full plate

Facing funding cuts and a lawsuit challenging the school's admissions policy, the university's new president has a _____ _____. a lot of work or problems

hand in glove

Far from being independent, the government and media work _____ in _____. closely connected with someone, especially in a bad or illegal activity

opinionated

Felix is too _________ to change his mind, even if he knows he is wrong. too sure of the rightness of one's opinions

derisive

Fenton's remark drew ________ laughs. showing that you think someone or something is stupid or silly

clout

Few companies have the ______ to handle such large deals. power or the authority to influence other people's decisions

mustered

Finally I _______ up the courage to ask her out. to get enough courage, confidence, support etc to do something, especially with difficulty

mercurial

Fiona is so _______________ that you never know what kind of reaction to expect. liable to change moods suddenly

incendiary

Five _____________ devices were found in her house. used to cause large fires

hand over fist

Five years ago, the company was losing money _____ over ______. gain or lose sth very quickly

above the law

Football players can't be _______ the ______ just because they are so valuable to team owners. not having to obey rules

escapism

For John books are a form of ________. an activity, a form of entertainment, etc. that helps you avoid or forget unpleasant or boring things

dispassionate .

For a [...] account of how the fight started, as a neutral observer -not a participant

outlay

For a relatively small ________, you can start a home hairdressing business. the amount of money that you have to spend

demote

For being absent without leave, the corporal was [...] to private.

bulwark

For centuries the British regarded their navy as their principal [...] against invasion.

tractable:

For his cabinet, the dictator wanted [...] men. Therefore, he appointed no one whom he could not control.

intermediary

For his role as [...] in helping to end the Russo-Japanese War, Theodore Roosevelt won the Nobel Peace Prize.

led the way

For women, a natural look in hairstyles _____ the ______ this spring. to be the most popular

keep their heads above water

For years they struggled to _____ their ____ above ______. to manage to live on your income when this is difficult because of financial problems

headway

Foreign firms have made little ________ in the U.S. market. to make progress towards achieving sth

reprieved

Fourteen people, waiting to be hanged for the murder of a former prime minister, have been ____________. to have the punishment delayed or cancelled

solecism

Frank's ___________ caused his debate team much embarrassment. violation of good manners or etiquette

understatement

Frank's remark that he was "slightly bruised" in the accident was an [...], he suffered two fractured ribs.

extenuating

Fred claimed that _____________ circumstances forced him to commit forgery. that reduce the strength or lessen the seriousness of

dereliction

From her point of view, failure to act would be a ________ of governmental duty. when someone fails to do what they should do as part of their job

amorous

From the famous balcony scene, the [...]Romeo expresses undying love for Juliet.

overshadow

Gary's errors in the field [...] his good work at the plate.

wary

General Braddock might not have been defeated if he had been [...] of an ambush.

lurk

General Braddock's troops, marching in column, were easy targets for the Indians [...]g behind trees.

specious

George didn't fool me with his _____________ argument. seemingly plausible but false

old hat

Get with it, Murray; your methods are strictly ___ ____. obsolete, old-fashioned

Dovetail:

Gilbert's skill as a writer [...] Sullivan's talent as a composer, resulting in the famous Gilbert and Sullivan operettas.

woozy

Giving blood makes me feel really _____. feeling weak and unsteady

meal ticket

Gone are the days when a university degree was a ____ _________ for life. sth you use to get regular amounts of money for the rest of your life

meeting of minds

Government officials say there was a __________ of _______ between the two leaders during the six-hour talks in Pretoria. when two people find that they have the same ideas and opinions and find it easy to agree with each other

disdainful

Grandfather was deeply indifferent to the future and __________ of the successes of his forgotten sons. showing that you do not respect sb, because you think that they are not important or good enough

rancor

Greg is full of _____________ towards his brother. a bitter feeling of ill will

impel

Greg's low mark in the midterm[...]led him to study harder for the final.

fine kettle of fish

Gurnley usually managed to worm his way out of trouble, but this time he found himself in a _____ _____ of ______. a troublesomely awkward or embarrassing situation

coup

Haiti's first elected president was deposed in a violent military _____. a sudden and sometimes violent attempt by citizens or the army to take control of the government

egalitarian

Hannah was moved by the candidate's ____________ speech. charactarized by the principle of equal rights for all persons

adulation

Harley wasn't prepared for the fame and _________ that came with being a star athlete. praise and admiration for sb that is more than they really deserve

get in my hair

Harry usually keeps the kids occupied so they don't ____ in my _____ while I'm cooking. to annoy sb, esp. by being near them for a long period

Blunder

Have you ever committed the [...] of mailing a letter without a postage stamp

forecast:

Have you listened to the weather [...] for tomorrow?

furnish

Having bought the house, they couldn't afford to _______ it. to put furniture and other things into a house or room

Recoil:

He [...]ed at the thought of singing in the amateur show, but he went through it because he had promised to participate

got the sack

He _____ the _______ when they found out that he'd lied about his qualifications. to lose your job

abjured

He ________ his religion. to state publicly that you no longer agree with sth

stammered

He _________ an apology and left quickly. to say sth with a lot of pauses and repeated sounds

wavered

He _________ between accepting and refusing. to be uncertain or unsteady in movement or decision

downed

He _________ the tea in one gulp. to drink or eat sth quickly

abominates

He ___________ cruelty of all kinds. to hate something very much

harm a hair on her head

He adores the girl - he wouldn't _____ a _____ on her ______. to hurt someone

like clockwork

He arrived at 7 every evening, _____ _______. at regular times

deft

He assembled it in one fluid, ______ motion. quick, neat in action, skillful

out in the cold

He chose to favour us one at a time and the others were left ____ in the ______. to not include someone in an activity

fornicating

He denied __________ with his wife's best friend. to have a sexual intercourse with sb you're not married to

two-timing

He doesn't know Claire's been ____-______ him. to have a secret relationship with someone who is not your regular partner

incumbent:

He felt [...] on him to pay for the window since he had hit the ball that broke it.

brim

He filled the jug to the _____. the very top edge of a container

disquieting

He found Jean's manner __________. causing anxiety

collusion

He found no evidence of __________ between record companies and retailers. the secret activities of people who work together to do something dishonest

rendition

He gave a moving __________ of Lennon's Imagine. sb's performance, interpretation

craven

He had a ______ fear of flying. cowardly

scruples

He had no _________ about selling faulty goods to people. a belief about what is right and wrong that prevents you from doing bad things

ululating

He had often dreamed of his grieving family visiting his grave, ________ as only the relatives of martyrs may. to cry out with a long high sound, especially because you are very sad or in pain

recluse

He is a millionaire ________ who refuses to give interviews. a person who lives alone and avoids going outside or talking to other people

docile

He is easy to teach, but his brother is not so [...]

exuberant

He is energetic and ________. happy and full of energy and excitement

standpoint

He is writing from the[...] of someone who knows what life is like in prison

meticulous

He kept __________ accounts. very careful about small details, and always making sure that everything is done correctly

unrepentant

He remains ________ about his comments. not ashamed of your behaviour or beliefs, even though other people disapprove

walk the walk

He says the team will be just as good without Groncki as they were with him, but we'll have to see if the team can _____ the _______. to show that sth is true through your actions

undercurrent

He sensed an __________ of resentment among the crowd. a feeling, especially of anger or dissatisfaction, that people do not express openly

imminent

He smiled in anticipation of her ________ arrival. which will happen soon

lifts a finger

He spends all day stretched out on the sofa and never ______ a ________ to help. to not help sb because you're lazy

snap

He tends to ______ at people when he's got a headache. to speak quickly, usually in an annoyed way

forbearance

He thanked his employees for the _________ they had shown during the company's difficult times. patience, forgiveness and self-control shown in a difficult situation

hovel

He thought of Hob dying in his _________, his wife frightened of the future. a small dirty place where sb lives, especially a very poor person

lurid

He told me in _______ detail what would happen to me. explicit

owned the place

He walked into the office on his first day as if he _______ the _______. to behave in an unpleasantly confident way

avenge

He wanted to _______ his brother's death. to do sth to hurt or punish sb because they have harmed or offended you

Despise

He was [...] by his fellow Americans for betraying his country.

man enough

He was ___ ________ to admit he had made a mistake. brave enough to do sth

quick on the draw

He was ______ on the ________ answering the reporter's questions. able to react quickly to a situation

contemporary

He was a __________ of Freud and may have known him. a person alive at the same time

debonair

He was a handsome, ____________, death-defying racing-driver. confident, charming and well-dressed

turn a hair

He was expecting her to be furious but she didn't ______ a _______. to not show any emotion when you are told something bad or when something bad happens

forthwith

He was fined £40, with 28 days' imprisonment if the money was not produced _________. immediately

battering

He was found innocent of ________ his small child. the criminal act of treating sb violently or threatening them

standout

He was the _________ in last Saturday's game. much better than the rest

credible

He was unable to give a ________ explanation for his behaviour. deserving or able to be believed or trusted

repartee

He wasn't expecting such a sharp __________ from someone who was normally so quiet. a quick, witty reply

tribunal

He will be sentenced for his war crimes by an international ____________. a court of justice

rakish

He wore his hat at a ___________ angle. making you look relaxed, confident and stylish

undercover

He worked ___________ in Germany and Northern Ireland. secretly in order to catch criminals or find out information

keynote

He would be setting out his plans for the party in a _______ speech. the main theme

dead certain

He's ____ ______ that Ming is the man who talked to him. very certain

querulous

He's a picky and _____________ old man, but I still love him. complaining, peevish

receptive

He's a very kind and _________ young man. willing to consider new ideas or listen to someone else's opinions

keeping a low profile

He's been _______ a ____ _______ at work ever since his argument with Jane. to avoid attracting attention to yourself

underhand

He's been involved in some __________ dealings. dishonest, done secretely

golden boy

Henman is the ______ ____ of British tennis this season. sb who is succesful and admired

forearm:

Henry protected his face for George's blows by raising his [...]

irreproachable

Her conduct throughout was _____________. without fault and therefore impossible to criticize

pouted

Her full lips ______ slightly. to push out your lower lip because you are annoyed or unhappy, or in order to look sexually attractive

infirm

Her grandmother is elderly and _______. weak or ill for a long time, especially because you are old

jaunty

Her hat was set at a _____ angle. showing that you are confident and happy

self-effacing

Her husband was a quiet, _____-_______ man who spent much of his time in his study. not wanting to attract attention to yourself or your achievements

swept the boards

Her latest film _____ the _______ at last night's cinema awards. to win all the prizes or votes in a competition or an election

relented

Her parents finally __________ and allowed her to go. to change your attitude and become less strict or cruel

beyond the pale

Her recent conduct is _______ the ______. unacceptable

brimmed

Her tears ________ over again as she started to speak. you start to cry

hovered

Her younger brother _________ in the background watching us. to stay nervously in the same place, especially because you are waiting for something or are not certain what to do

duly

Here are your travel documents, all _____ signed. in the proper or expected way

departed this life

Here lies Henry Stanford, who _________ this _________ January 13th 1867. to die

down on their luck

Here, parents who are ____ on their ____ can pick out toys for their children. to have no money because you have had a lot of bad luck over a long period of time

obviate

Hiring Magdalena would ___________ the need to hire a music tutor, for she is also a classical pianist. to get rid of

heart was in his boots

His ______ was in his ______ as he waited for news of the accident. to feel sad or worried

shoddy

His _______ research resulted in him failing his PhD. of poor quality

overbearing

His _________ personality makes him difficult to work with. frequently trying to tell other people what to do without regard for their ideas or feelings

forebears

His __________ had come to America from Ireland. a person in your family who lived long ago

edifying

His ___________ sermon challenged the congregation to devote more time to charitable causes. englightening with the aim of improving moral development

aided and abetted

His accountant had ______ and ______ him in the fraud. to help or encourage someone to do sth wrong or illegal

debunked

His claims were later ________ by fellow academics. to show that an idea or belief is false

unbecoming

His conduct was totally _________ to an officer in the British armed services. shocking and unsuitable

far and wide

His fame spread ___ and ______. (over a large area)

agitating

His family are __________ to get him freed. to argue strongly in public for sth you want, especially a political or social change

byword

His name has become a _______ for honesty in the community. to be so well known for a particular quality that your name is used to represent that quality

portrayal

His novel is a vivid [...] of life in a mining community. Much television news gives a negative portrayal of politics.

inimitable

His performance on the tennis court was _________________. unmatchable

imbued

His philosophical writings are _________ with religious belief. to make sb have a quality, idea, or emotion very strongly

anathema

His political views were _________ to me. something that is completely the opposite of what you believe in

overplayed

His role in the group's success has been ____________. to make sth seem more important than it is

derision

His speech was greeted with _________ by opposition leaders. when you show that you think sth is stupid or silly

long-winded

His speeches tend to be rather ____-______. continuing to talk for too long or using too many words in a way that is boring

disarmed

His tact and political skills __________ his critics. to make someone feel less angry or disapproving of you, and more friendly

false dawn

His victory in the French Open proved to be a _______ ______ after he failed to win another title for the next five years. sth which seems to show that a situation is improving when it is not

plumbed the depths

His wife left him in May and during the following months he _______ the _______ of despair. to experience extreme sadness

demagogue

Hitler was the most infamous __________ of the twentieth century. a leader who obtains power by appealing to people's feelings and prejudices

hard-nosed

Holbrooke has a justified reputation as a ____-_____ negotiator. not affected by emotions, and determined to get what you want

entrails

Hot liquid and ________ spilled over him, and he scrambled out from under the thing. the inside parts of an animal or person's body, especially their intestines

self-styled

How could a ____-______ poet be so oblivious to taste? having given yourself a title or position without having a right to it

underachiever

How do educators determine if a child is an ______________? sb who does not do as well at school or at work as they could do if they worked harder

avail

How many schools _______ themselves of this opportunity each year? to accept an offer or use an opportunity to do something

maintenance

How much __________ does he pay to his children and ex-wife? money that a person has been ordered by a court to pay regularly to their former partner

all systems go

However, it was now __ ______ ___ for the future. used, sometimes humorously, to say that you are ready to do something or that something is ready to happen

defer

Husbands as a rule do not decide on the colors of home furnishings, but [...] to their wives in these matters.

dread

I ______ to think what will happen if they get elected. am afraid

averse

I am in favor of the dance, but I am [...] to holding it on May 25.

grouch

I can't stand him - he's such an old ______. a person who complains a lot

twaddle

I don't believe in all that ________ about fate. nonsense

credence

I don't give any ________ to these rumors. the acceptance of something as true

hair-splitting

I don't have very much patience with all this legal ____-_______. to argue about whether details that are not important are correct

live in each other's pockets

I don't think it's healthy the way those two ______ in ____ ______ ______. to spend too much time together

cavil

I don't think this is the time to ______ at the wording of the report. to make unnecessary complaints

elucidate

I don't understand. You'll have to __________. to explain or make clear

repartee

I enjoy listening to their witty ________. quick, amusing answers in conversation

Cohere

I glued together the fragments of the vase, but they did not cohere

glutton

I had a second helping and I would have the third except that I didn't want to be considered as a [...].

liquid lunch

I had a two hour _____ _____ and nearly fell asleep at my desk in the afternoon. when you drink alcohol instead of having a meal

forgo

I had to ______ lunch. to not do or have something pleasant or enjoyable

make believe

I had to explain to Sam that it was only _____ _______ and that they weren't real monsters. imaginary or invented

fulminating

I had to listen to Michael ___________ against the government. to criticize strongly

hereafter

I have a feeling that life for me in Japan _______ will be quite different. from this time

flummoxed

I have to say that last question ________ me. to confuse someone so much that they do not know what to do

scourge

I just repeated the story about my speech on the ________ of gangsterism. sth that causes a lot of harm or suffering

blustery

I keep a firm grip on my hat and stare into the ________ abyss. very windy

hit it off

I knew you and Mike would ____ it _____ straight away. to immediately have a good relationship with sb when you meet them for the first time

golden oldies

I listen to the Sunday morning show when they play all the ________ _______. a record that was very popular in the past and that people still know and like today

pungent

I love the __________ taste of a good, strong curry. having a strong, sharp taste or smell

near miss

I managed to brake just in time but it was a _____ _________. when an accident or unpleasant situation almost happened and was only just avoided

perplex

I need help the fourth problem; it [...] me.

a hole in the head

I need this conversation like a ____ in my ______. you definitely don't want it

tentative

I passed on my ________ conclusions to the police. not definite or certain, and may be changed later

overweening

I quit because I couldn't stand to work for such an _____________ boss. too proud and confident

needs must

I really don't feel like cooking for all these people tonight but ______ ____. you will do sth only because it is necessary

keeps me guessing

I really enjoy a good mystery story that ______ me _________ the whole time. to cause you to be uncertain

encroach

I resent it that my job is starting to _________ on my family life. to gradually take away someone's rights, to take control on sb's time

brush me aside

I saw this happen, and you can't just call me crazy and ______ me _______. to not give sth serious consideration

malice

I suspect Ronnie stripped me so that I wouldn't be able to play tomorrow. He did it no as a joke but out of [...]

castles in the air

I told him he should stop building _____ in ___ _______ and train for a sensible profession. extravagant hopes and plans that will never be carried out

dissuade

I tried to ____________ them from painting their house yellow. to discourage from

inculcate

I try to ___________ a sense of responsibility in my children. to fix ideas, principles etc in sb's mind

brush-off

I wanted to speak to her, but she gave me the _____-____. a clear refusal to be friendly or to listen; rude dismissal

cottoned to

I was afraid Janet wouldn't like my brother, but she _______ ___ him immediately. to take a liking to someone or something

left on the shelf

I was afraid my daughter would never find a husband, that she'd be _____ on the ________. not married and people believe they are too old to get married

gawping

I was carried out on a stretcher, with everyone __________ at me. to look at sth for a long time, especially with your mouth open because you are surprised

ire

I was filled with ____ when Walter tried to take credit for my work. anger, wrath

sardonic

I was hurt by his __________ reply. sarcastic

sententious

I was looking for your honest opinion, not a __________ reply. full of maxims and proverbs offered in a self-righteous manner

overconfident

I was sure of passing that I wasn't going to study, but Dad advised me not to be [...]

confine

I will confine my remarks to the cause of the War in 1812, the next speak will discuss its results.

sangfroid

I wish I had Jenny's _____________ when I find myself in a confrontational situation. composure, especially in dangerous circumstances

rubric

I would put calculus under the __________ of college mathematics, not high school. a class or category

shift gears

I'd like to ________ _______ now and talk about a personal concern. to suddenly change what you are doing

on our hands

I'm afraid we have a murder __ our ______, Inspector. to have a difficult job, problem, situation etc to deal with

inopportune

I'm afraid you've called at rather an ________ moment. not suitable or good for something

in the market

I'm not ___ the ________ for a car at the moment. interested in buying sth

burn my boats

I'm really tempted to take up that job offer in Washington, but I don't want to ______ my ______ with this company. (to do something with the result that you will not be able to return to a previous situation again)

befuddled

I'm so tired, my poor ___________ brain can't absorb any more. confused

inveterate

I'm the first to admit that I'm an _________ cider drinker—I drink four pints a day. stubbornly established by habit

flagged

I've _______ the parts I want to comment on. to make a mark against some information to show that it is important

Dear John letters

I've always thought ____ _______ _______ a cowardly way of ending a relationship. a letter that you send to a man telling him you want to end a romantic relationship with him

tearing my hair out

I've been _____ my _____ out trying to get the job finished on time. to be very anxious

Inquiry

I've been making [...]inquiries about/into the cost of a round-the-world ticket. Inquiry into the matter is pointless - no one will tell you anything

take the plunge

I've decided to _____ the ______ and start up my own business. to do sth that you've been thinking about doing for a long time

tawdry

I've never seen such a ________ outfit as that prom dress! flashy and tasteless

precocious

If Nany's three-year-old brother can read, he must be a [...] child.

push comes to shove

If _____ comes to ______, you can always sell the car. if a situation becomes very difficult or action needs to be taken

unfold

If a situation or story [...], it develops or becomes clear to other people: Like a lot of people, I've watched the events of the last few days unfold on TV.

stand-up

If it came to a ____-____ fight, I wouldn't have a chance. one in which people shout loudly at each other or are violent

tremulous

If so, you are taking your own first _________ steps into fiction. shaking slightly, especially because you are nervous

heads will roll

If the accident was caused by company negligence, then _______ will _______. when people will lose their jobs as punishment for making serious mistakes

up a tree

If the insurance company won't pay for the damage, I'll be ____ a _____. in a difficult situation

timid

If the other team challenges us, we should accept. Let's not be so [...].

Coherence

If the relationship between the first sentence and what follows it is not clear, the paragraph lacks [...]

infinitesimal

If there is any salt in this soup, it must be [...]. I can't taste it.

paying down

If this trend continues, the government could start _______ _____ the national debt. to reduce the amount of money owed

underpayment

If too little deducted from Dad's weekly wages for the income tax, it results in an [...] at the end of the year.

invigorate

If you are enervated by the heat, try a swim in the cool ocean. It will [...] you.

equanimity

If you become extremely upset when you lose a game, it is a sign that you lack [...] .

raw deal

If you feel you've had a ____ ______, you can always sue me. unfair treatment

append

If you hand in your report late,[...] append the note explaining the reason for the delay.

imperative:

If you have failed a subject you need for graduation, it is [...] that you go to summer school.

iota

If you make the same mistakes again, despite all my warnings, I will not have one [...] of sympathy for you.

lineage

If you study Franklin D.Roossevelt's [...], you will find that he was descended from a Dutch ancestor who settled in American in 1638.

undeceive

If you think I can get Mr.Owen to hire you because he is my cousin,let me [...] you. I have no influence with him.

pay through the nose

If you visit any major city these days, you had better be prepared to ____ through the ______ for a hotel room. to pay unreasonably high prices

look the part

If you want to get a job as a fashion buyer, it helps if you ______ the _______. to appear to be suited to a particular type of work

fleece

If your brother paid $400 for that car, he was [...]ed. The mechanic says it is worth $150.

oblige:

If your friend were in trouble, wouldn't you feel [...] to go his help?

unanimity

In almost every discussion there is bound to some disagreement. Don't expect [...]

in over your head

In business, start small and don't get ___ over your _______. to be or get involved in something that is too difficult for you to deal with

forefront:

In combat the officer was always standing in the [...] of the attack, leading his men on to victory.

recast

In despair, the director ________ the leading role. change an actor

Dormant

In early spring,new buds begin to appear on shrubs and trees that have been [...] all winter

common-law

In many countries ______-____ wives have the same rights as official ones. person living with his/her partner for a long time but not married to him/her

greasing the palms

In many countries you can't get anything done without _______ the ______ of officials. to bribe somebody

Segregate

In most schools. boys and girls attend the same classes, except in health education, where they are [...].

infinite

In our science lesson tomorrow, we will consider whether space is [...] and bounded

buoyant

In science class, the children tried to identify which objects on the table would be ______________. able to float

ensuing

In the ________ fighting, two students were killed. happening after a particular action or event, especially as a result of it

imprecation

In the book I'm reading, the gypsy queen levies an _____________ on the lead character. an invocation of evil, a curse

irreconcilable:

It is doubtful that anyone can make peace between estranged partners. They have become [...]

opinionated

It is hard to reason with an [...]ed person; He won't change his mind even when you give him objective evidence.

transpires

It now ________ that he kept all the money for himself. to become discovered

spur

It provided the ____ to further research. (a fact or event that makes you try harder to do something)

reactionary

It should be an interesting marriage - he's a ___________ and she's as liberal as they come. a person who favors political conservativism

playing fast and loose

It sounds like a good deal, but I hope that real estate agent isn't just _______ ____ and ______ with me. to behave dishonorably; to make a promise and fail to deliver on it

onus

It was Clark's idea, so the ___________ is on hime to show us that it will work. duty or responsibility of doing sth

dastardly

It was [...] of the captain to desert the sinking vessel and leave the passengers to fend for themselves.

trenchant

It was a ______________ argument, and it forced me to change my mind about the issue. clear-cut, sharply defined

gargantuan

It was a _______________ supermarket for such a small town. gigantic, huge

consigned

It was a decision which _________ him to political obscurity. to make sb be in a particular situation, especially a bad one

see the last of them

It was a relief to ____ the _____ of them. to not see someone or something again, especially someone or something you do not like

tumultuous

It was another ____________ day for the stock market, and fluctuating prices wreaked havoc for investors. creating an upproar, disorderly, noisy

luck of the draw

It was by the ____ of the _____ that I got a corner office. the result of chance rather than something you can control

inscrutable

It was completely ______________ how the escape artist got out of the trunk. baffling, unfathomable

broach

It was hard for Tessa to ___________ the subject of her mother's weight again. to bring up, introduce in order to begin a discussion of

opprobrious

It was inappropriate to make such ___________ remarks in front of everybody. expressing contempt

noisome

It was not, of course, merely the ________ aspect which needed to be dealt with. very unpleasant

colluded

It was suspected that the police had __________ with the witnesses. to act together secretly or illegally in order to deceive or cheat sb

partial

It will be difficult to find a judge who is not ________. showing special favour to one person, side etc, especially in a way that is unfair

fallacy

It's a common ___________ that a neutered dog will become fat and lazy. a false idea or belief, especially one that a lot of people believe is true

cachet

It's a good college, but lacks the _______ of Harvard. a quality which marks someone or something as special and worth respect and admiration

close the sale

It's an easy job — just bring out the shoe the customer chooses, and then _____ the _______ with a thank you. to succeed in selling sth to sb

teeming

It's been _______ down all day. to rain very heavily

best of all

It's clean and well-located, but ____ of ___, it's affordable. even better than the other good things

sinuous

It's dangerous to drive fast on such a ________________ road. winding, serpentine

got your head down

It's time you got your _____ ____ and did some revision to start working in a quiet determined way

fallback

It's wise to have an extra video player as a _________. sth that can be used if a supply fails

underemployed

Its wealth was largely non-industrial and it contained an enormous pool of __________ and unemployed people. working in a job where you cannot use all your skills

august

Jackie Kennedy's __________ dignity in the days following her husban's assasination set a tone for the rest of the nation as it mourned. majestic, venerable

on pins and needles

Jackie was on ____ and _______ waiting to hear about her job application. in a state of anxiety or tense expectation

equivocate

Jake tried to ______________ when explaining why he came home after his curfew. to use unclear or ambiguous language in order to mislead

provoke:

Jeff's account of his experiences on a farm [...]d much laughter. There would have been no fight if you hadn't provoked your brother by calling him names.

propel

Jet-[...] planes travel at very high speeds.

lurched

Joe __________ drunkely into the room. to move suddenly in a way that is not smooth or controlled

gregarious

John was a ________________ fellow who always had fun at social events. tending to form a group with others of the same kind

gave notice

Jones _______ _____ in October that he planned to leave at the end of the school year. to warn your employer that you will stop working

flimsy

Judy understands algebra well, but I have only a [...] grasp of the subject.

obviate.

Karen has agreed to lend me the book I need. This [...]s my trip to the library.

substantiate

Katzen offered little evidence to __________ his claims. to prove the truth of sth that sb has said, claimed etc

forthcoming

Keep an eye on the noticeboards for _________ events. one that has been planned to happen soon

seaward

Keep to the _______ side of the path. facing towards the sea

protrude

Keep your feet under your desk; do not let them [...] into the aisle.

ostracized

Kendall was _______________ after he repeatedly stole from his friends. to reject, cast out from a group

punctilious

Kira is as _____________ in her personal affairs as she is in the workplace. very conscientious and precise

standpoint

Let's look at the questions from an economic _________. point of view

by leaps and bounds

Lifeboat technology has advanced by ______ and ______. very quickly

salutary

Losing money in this way taught young Jones a _________ lesson. which is unpleasant but teaches you something

undermine

Losing the witness will seriously __________ the government's case against Jones. to gradually make sth less strong or effective

without a murmur

Louise was so tired that she went to bed _______ a _________ for once. without complaining

fell into step

Maggie ____ into _____ beside her. to start walking beside someone at the same speed as them

festooned

Malaga was _________ with banners and flags in honour of the king's visit. to cover something with flowers, long pieces of material etc, especially for decoration

chauvinist

Male ___________ believe that women are inferior to men. a person who believes in the superiority of his own kind

impecunious

Many ____________ immigrants in the United States eventually were able to make comfortable lives for themselves. having little or no money

xenophobia

Many atrocities have been committed because of ____________. a strong dislike, distrust or fear for foreigners

infringes

Many people think that censorship __________ on their freedom. to limit

unquenchable

Many teenagers have an [...] thirst for adventure stories, they read one after another

elope

Many young people _______ because their parents wouldn't let them get married. to run away with somebody in order to marry him secretly

defiant

Mark smashed a fist on the desk in a _______ gesture. clearly refusing to do what someone tells you to do

ignoble

Mark was an __________ successor to such a well-respected leader. lacking nobility

in the pink

Marsha has recovered from the flu and is feeling ___ the ______ again. in good health

quintessence

Maura is the ___________ of kindness. the perfect example or embodiment of sth

derive

Medically, we will _______ great benefit from this technique. to get something, especially an advantage or a pleasant feeling

obtruded

Memories of her grandmother's judgements _________ themselves and she closed her mind against them. to become noticeable when it's not wanted

run-in

Michael got drunk and had a ____-___ with the police. an argument or disagreement, especially with someone in an official position

quailed

Mona __________ as soon as Richard, the class bully, entered the room. to draw back in fear

overkill

More television coverage of the election would be ___________. more than is necessary or desirable

opulent

Morishita leads an ________ lifestyle. very rich, spending a lot of money

larger than life

Most characters in his films are somewhat ________ than ______. more exciting or interesting than ordinary people

embroil:

Motorists who disregard traffic regulations eventually become [...]d with law.

takes advantage

Mr. Smith often _______ ________ of my friendship and leaves the unpleasant tasks for me to do. to use sb's weakness to improve your own situation

scrupulous

Mr.Brooks refused to be a judge because his wife'nice was a contestant. He is very [...]

necessitate:

Mr.Gans told Helen that her refusal to work [...]s his sending for her parents.

discoursed

Mrs. Hutchins __________ at length on the ignorance of the frontier people. to make a long formal speech about sth

preconceived

My [...] dislike for the book disappeared when I read a few chapters.

sagacious

My ___________ uncle always gives me good, sound advice. having or showing good judgement

shiftless

My _____________ roommate has failed all of his classes. lazy and inefficient

manifest

My art teacher told my parents that I have failed to manifest any interest in her subject. It is now [...] that, if I do no do my work, I will fall the course.

all smiles

My boss has been ____ ________ lately, but I keep wondering why! very happy

intercede

My brother would have lost the argument if Dad hadn't [...]ed for him.

solicitude

My brother's [...] over getting into college ended when he received the word that he had been accepted.

morose

My daughter has been _____________ ever since our dog ran away. gloomy, sullen

light of my life

My daughter is the _____ of my ______. sb you love most

abstain

My dentist said I would have fewer cavities if I [...]ed from eating candy.

prophet of doom

My father is convinced that this venture will fail, but then he's always been a _______ of ______. sb who always expects bad things to happen

squelched

My hair was dripping and my shoes _________ as I walked. to make a sucking sound by walking or moving in something soft and wet

in the middle

My mother and sister are always yelling at each other, and I find myself caught ___ ____ ______. to experience the influence of opposing groups in a disagreement

fretting

My mother is always _________ over something. to be continually worried or dissatisfied about small or unnecessary things

upkeep

My neighbor traded his own car because the [...] had become too high.

go far

My salary doesn't ___ very ____ these days. (you cannot buy very much with it)

dawdle

My sister [...] over dishes. Mother gets them done without wasting time.

avocation

My uncle, an accountant, composes music as an avocation.

engender

Name-calling [...]s hatred.

pernicious

Nancy's opponent started a _____________ rumor that destroyed her chances of winning. deadly, harmful, destructive

disabuse

Natalie needed to __________ Charles of his belief that she was in love with him. to correct a false impression or erroneous belief

forswear

Natasha had to ______________ her allegiance to her homeland in order to become a citizen of the new country. to give up, renounce

sentiment

Nationalist ________ has increased in the area since the bombing. a thought, opinion or idea based on a feeling about a situation, or a way of thinking about something

urbane

Neil was _______, witty, direct, and honest. behaving in a relaxed and confident way in social situations

edible

Never eat wild mushrooms, even though they look []. They may be poisonous.

grafted

New elements are being __________ onto our traditional form of government. to add smh very different to sth, so that it becomes part of it

hands down

Nigel always won ____ ____ in any argument. easily

presume

Nineteen of the sailors have been rescued. One is missing and [...] dead.

overlook

Nobody could __________ the fact that box office sales were down. fail to notice

squirmed

Nobody spoke for at least five minutes and Rachel _________ in her chair with embarrassment. to move from side to side in an awkward way because of nervousness, embarrassment or pain

fervent

Norman had a ___________ belief that aliens had already landed on earth. having or showing great emotion

toed the line

Not everyone was happy with the plan, but most of us _____ the ______. to do what you are ordered or expected to do

inception

Not long after their ________, the welfare programs were under attack. the start of an organization or institution

Apprehend

Now I see how foolish I was to [...] the outcome of the test. I passed it easily.

misery guts

Of course, your father, old _______ _____, wanted to come home after half an hour because he was bored. sb who complains all the time and is never happy

decoy

Officer Langley acted as a ________ to catch the rapist someone or something that is used to trick someone into going somewhere or doing something, so that you can catch them, attack them etc

dire straits

Officials in Washington say the peace process is in ______ _______. in extreme danger or difficulty

staple

Oil is Nigeria's _______ export. forming the greatest or most important part of something

inundate

On Election Night, the victor's offices were [...] ed by congratulatory messages.

slake

On a sultry afternoon, you can see a long line of people at the drinking fountain, waiting to [...] their thirst.

Sojourn

On his trip home, Gerald will stop in St. Louis for two -day [...] with relatives.

underbrush

On its way through the dense jungle, the patrol had to be constantly wary of enemy soldiers concealed in the [...]

corralled

Once at the airport, we were herded to the gate and __________ into a small room. to keep people in a particular area, especially in order to control them

off our hands

Once this problem is ___ our _____ we can relax for a while. you are not responsible for it any more

importuning

One can no longer walk the streets without seeing beggars _________ passers-by. ask for sth in an annoying way

chronicle

One of the earliest accounts of King Authur occurs in a 12th-century [...] of the kings of Britain by Geoffrey of Monmouth

undercut

Online bookstores can _________ retailers by up to 30%. to sell goods or a service at a lower price than another company

end of the line

Our marriage had reached the ____ of the _____. (the end of a process, activity, or state)

abound

Our nation abounds in opportunities for well-educated young men and women. Fish [...] abound in the waters off Newfoundland.

cleavage:

Our party hopes to repair the [...] in its ranks so that it may present a united front in the coming elections.

foolproof

Our security system is absolutely _________. not capable of going wrong or being wrongly used

heed

Our teacher said that we might have a test but I didn't [...] her. That's why I was unprepared.

pageant

Parents came to see their children in the annual Christmas _________. an organized public show, often performed outdoors

infraction

Parking at the bus stop is illegal. Motorists committing this [...] are heavily fined.

apprise

Part of Sue's job as a public defender was to ___________ people of their legal rights. to inform, give notice to

quotidian

Pauline took her ____________ dose of medicine. daily

left and right

People are complaining ______ and _________ about the new parking regulations. everywhere, without any plan or pattern

retribution

People are convicted that all criminals should get a ___________ for their deeds. severe punishment that is deserved

mobster

People say that a famous and dangerous _________ rules this part of our city. member of an organised criminal group

misbelief:

People thought the Earth was flat until Columbus corrected that [...]

vengeful

Personally they are petty, self-indulgent and _________ to a degree that suggests galloping megalomania. very eager to punish someone who has done something bad

incorrigible

Peter, you are an __________ flirt! bad in a way that cannot be changed or improved

remuneration

Petitions to the Admiralty for ___________ for his discovery brought nothing. the pay you give sb for sth they have done for you

gainsay

Petra would ___________ all accusations made against her. to deny, contradict

transient

Phoenix has a very _________ population. working or staying somewhere for only a short time

insulating

Pipes may need ________ against the cold. to cover or protect something with a material that stops electricity, sound, heat etc from getting in or out

mince

Please don't ________ your words - just tell me what you want to say. say sth more delicately or indirectly for the sake of politeness

withhold

Please don't interrupt me. If you have something to say, [...] it until I have finished speaking.

funnelled

Police at the barriers ___________ the crowd into the arena. to direct sth through a narrow opening

counterfeit

Police have warned stores to look out for ________ $50 bills. made to look exactly like something else, in order to deceive people

upheavals

Political __________ are very common these days. a great or complete change involving disturbance, confusion, trouble

vent their spleen

Politicians used the press conference as an opportunity to ______ their _______ on reporters. to express anger

look before you leap

Proceed with caution and, at the risk of sounding like a tabloid astrologer, ____ before you ______. (it is sensible to think about possible dangers or difficulties of something before doing it)

iota

Professor Carlton is unpopular because he doesn't have one _______ of respect for his students. a very small amount

engender

Professor Sorenson's support worked to __________ Samantha's desire to pursue a Ph. D. to produce, bring into existence

prevaricating

Quit ______________ and tell me what really happened. to tell lies

play it by ear

Rather than plan an elaborate strategy, Andy decided to _____ it by _____. to improvise

invoke

Refusing to answer the question, the witness [...]d the Fifth Amendment, which protects a person from being compelled to testify against himself.

atone

Richard was anxious to ______ for his thoughtlessness. to do something to show that you are sorry for having done something wrong

eulogy

Richard was asked to give an ___________ for his fallen comrade. a formal speech or piece of writing in praise of sb

mishap:

Right after the accident, each driver blamed the other for the [...]

audacious:

Risking serious injury, the outfielder made an audacious leap against the concrete wall to caught the powerfully hit ball. After we had been waiting for about 20 minutes, an [...] freshman came along and tried to get in at the head of the line.

exploit

Rober. E. Peary won worldwide fame for his [...] as an Arctatic explorer.

transgress

Ronald's previous record showed he had been an obedient student and had never [...]ed school regulations.

foremost

Rostropovich was long considered the world's _________ cellist. the best or most important

abound

Rumours ________ as to the reasons for his resignation. to exist in very large numbers

Vocation:

Ruth is going to be a nurse..Bob plans to enter teaching. I, however, have not yet chosen a [...]

incapacitate

Ruth will be absent today. She is [...]d by a sore throat.

Hoard

Salas Marner had a reputation as a miser who [...]ed every penny he could get his hands on.

personable

Sandra is ____________ and well-liked by her peers. pleasing in appearance or manner

irresolute

Sarah is still _______________, so if you talk to her, you might help her make up her mind. feeling or showing uncertainty

progeny

Sarah with her numerous _______. offspring

peripheral

Science is ____________ to the debate on the sanctity of human life. not very important compared with other activities or issues

overleaf

See the diagram _________. on the other side of the page

boor

Seeing Chuck wiping his mouth with his sleeve, Maribel realized she was attending her prom with a classic ________. a crude, ill-mannered person

apprehensive

Several [...] parents telephoned the school when their children were late in getting home from museum trip.

bystanders

Several innocent ________ were killed by the blast. someone who watches what is happening without taking part

golden handcuffs

Share options are offered to top executives as _________ _________. financial arrangements given by a company to an important employee in order to influence them to stay with the company

lining his pockets

Sharp resigned after allegations that he had been ________ his ________ during his time as company director. to make a lot of money in a way that is not fair or honest

embezzled

She _________ $10,000 by falsifying the accounts. to steal money from the place where you work

wheedled

She _________ him into taking her with him. to persuade by pleasant but insincere behaviour or words

remonstrated

She ___________ with him but he would not listen. to tell sb that you strongly dissaprove of sth they have said

pampers

She ____________ her dog with the finest steak and salmon. to treat sb in a special way by making them as comfortable as possible and giving them whatever they want

adamant

She begged me to change my mind, but I remained ___________. determined not to change your opinion or a decision that you have made

mane

She brushed her long hair into a shining _____ and arranged it carefully around her shoulders. a person's long thick hair

inveigled

She had ____________ me into taking messages to her lover. to persuade sb to do what you want, especially in a dishonest way

connived

She had murdered or _______ at the murder of one of her lovers. to allow something bad to happen although you know about it

scintilla

She has not one ________________ of doubt about his guilt. a trace or particle

old guard

She has tried to resist attempts by the ______ ______ to halt the reform process. a group of people who have worked in an organization for a long time and do not want it to change

hat trick

She pulled off a ___ _____ with her presentation to the committee. an outstanding performance by an individual, or a particularly clever or adroit maneuver

intern

She refused to be treated by an ______ and demanded to see a qualified doctor. someone who has nearly finished training as a doctor and is working in a hospital

braced myself for

She told me she had some bad news for me and I _______ myself ___ a shock. to prepare yourself physically or mentally for something unpleasant

sabbatical

She took a long __________. a period when sb, esp. someone in a university job, stops doing their usual work in order to study or travel

poring over

She was ______ ____ a book. to read or look at something very carefully for a long time

nettled

She was ________ by Holman's remark. to be annoyed by what someone says or does

livid

She was absolutely ______ that he had lied. furious

capricious

She was as ____________ as her mother had been. likely to change your mind suddenly or behave in an unexpected way

riddance

She was awful. Good ________ to her, I say! a rude way of saying you are glad someone has left

browbeat

She was determined to _________ everyone into believing her. to try to make sb do sth, especially in a threatening way

clemency

She was granted _________ after killing her violent husband. forgiveness and less severe punishment for a crime

not a hair out of place

She was immaculate as ever, ___ a ____ out of ______. with a very tidy appearance

bombastic

She was shocked that a renowned humanitarian could give such as a ________ keynote address. speaking pompously, with inflated self-importance

jibes

She was tired of his cheap ______. an unkind remark intended to make someone seem silly

and a half

She was trouble ____ __ ______, an unpredictable child you'd have to watch all the time. a great deal more than sth

number

She was wearing a chic little _______. (a black, elegant etc dress or suit, especially a woman's)

senile

She worries about going _______. mentally confused or behaving strangely, because of old age

for a price

She'll do any kind of redecorating you need, ___ a _____. for a lot of money

clearance

She'll race if she gets medical _______ from her doctor. the process of getting official permission or approval for something

risible

She's been making _________ attempts to learn the trumpet. not impressive, ridiculous

reticent

She's strangely __________ about her son. unwilling to talk about what you feel or what you know

deigned

Shelly finally __________ to join us for lunch. to agree to sth that you think you are too important to do

outwit

Sherlock Homes manages to [...] the cleverest criminals.

magnitude .

Shopping for clothes can be a small matter for some , but a problem of the greatest magnitude for others

on the dot

Shops in this part of the city shut at 5.30pm ___ the ____. exactly on that time

malefactor

Shortly after the crime, the [...] was apprehended and turned over to the police.

premature

Since just less than a half of the votes have been counted, my opponent's claims of victory are [...].

inflate

Since the football has lost air, we shall need a pump to [...] it.

superfluous:

Since we have enough food for the picnic, please don't bring any because it will only be [...]

veracity

Since you have lied to us in the past, you should not wonder that we doubt your [...].

standard-bearer

Sir Keith Joseph, the right's _______-________, blew it with an injudicious speech about the underclass. an important leader in a moral argument or political group

deranged

Small and thin, Terri was dressed, as usual, in the manner of a _________ Victorian governess. that behaves in a crazy or dangerous way, usually because they are mentally ill

see their way

Small companies cannot ____ their _____ to taking on many trainees to be able and willing to do something

interstices

Small plants were growing in the _________ of the rock. a small space or crack in something or between things

dogma

Some find the __________ inherent in religion a comfort, whereas others find it too restrictive. a prescribed doctrine

cleave:

Some of the inhabitants are hostile to new ways; they [...] to the customs and traditions of the past.

Incense:.

Some of the members were so [...] ed by the way Jack opened the meeting that they walked right out

implacable

Some of the people who call the customer service desk are _____________. incapable of being appeased

contravene

Some portions of the bill may __________ state law. violate

landfills

Some waste should be recycled rather than kept at _________. a place where waste can be buried

make waves

Some workers felt it was not the time to ____ _______ by organizing a union. to change an existing situation in a way which causes problems or upsets people

animosity

Someday the [...] animosities that led the war will be replaced by amity.

desecrated

Someone _____________ the local cemetery by spray-painting graffiti on tombstones. to violate the sacredness of

hold the fort

Someone had to stay at home and ____ the _______ while my mother was out. to be left in charge of sth when sb is away

Rummage

Someone must have been [...]d my desk; everything in it is in disorder.

Secession

South Caroline's [...] was imitated by ten other states and led to the formation of the Confederacy.

compulsory:

State law makes attendance at school [...] for children of certain ages.

made headlines

Stephen King ____ _________ by electronically distributing his novella. to become an important news story

treacherous

Strong winds and loose rocks made climbing ___________. particularly dangerous because you cannot see the dangers very easily

safeguards

Stronger legal _________ are needed to protect the consumer. sth that is designed to protect people from harm, risk or danger

soluble

Sugar is soluble in water Someone would have found the answer by now if the problem were soluble.

Rally

Supporters/Opponents of the new shopping development are trying to rally localpeople in favour of/against it. The president has called on the people to [...] to/behind the government.

rife

Surprisingly, the teacher's writing was _____ with spelling errors. abundant

deposition

Symington's _________ was taken as part of a lawsuit between the City of Tucson and the Metropolitan Water District. a statement written or recorded for a court of law, by someone who has promised to tell the truth

lucrative

Teaching isn't a very ___________ career. profitable

opaque

Technical jargon is all to often ________. difficult to understand

irked

Teenagers are continually ____________ by their parents. to annoy, vex

attrition

Terrorist groups and the government have been engaged in a costly war of _____________ since 1968. the gradual weakening and destroying of sth

pearl of wisdom

Thank you for that ______ of ________, Jerry. Now do you think you could suggest something more useful? an important piece of advice

once in a blue moon

That company puts on a good performance only _____ in a ______ ______. very rarely

ace in the hole

That fifty dollars is my ____ in the _____. something that you keep secretly to use when you need it

broke the ice

That joke really _____ the _____ at the conference; we all relaxed afterward. to remove the tension

verity

That smoking is injurious to health is a scientifically established [...]

absorbing

That was an [...] book. It held my interest from the beginning to end.

backlash

The 1970s saw the first __________ against the emerging women's movement. a strong negative reaction by a number of people against recent events

progenitor

The Bibles states that Adam was a [...] of human race.

retaliated

The British government __________ by breaking off diplomatic relations. to do sth bad to sb because they have done something bad to you

allay

The CEO's remarks did not ________ the concerns of the employees. alleviate

fatuous

The Chief was left speechless by this _______ remark. complacently stupid, silly

chef d'oeuvre

The Decameron is widely regarded as Boccaccio's _____ ______. an artist's or writer's best piece of work

setback

The December elections were a major ________ for the party. a problem that delays or prevents progress, or makes things worse than they were

override

The EU commission exercised its power to ___________ British policy. change someone else's decision

grapple

The Government has to _________ with the problem of unemployment. to try hard to deal with or understand something difficult

mother lode

The Sharper Image catalog is a ______ ____ of men's gadgets and toys. a place where you can find a lot of a particular type of object

landmark

The Supreme Court issued a ________ decision in January 2001. one of the most important events, changes, or discoveries that influences someone or something

traverse

The Trans-Siberian Railroad completed in 1905, [...] the Asian continent.

self-restraint

The UN appealed for both sides to exercise _____-_______. the ability to stop yourself doing or saying something, even though you want to

advent

The Weather Bureau gave adequate warning of the [...] of the hurricane.

pendant

The [...] dangling from the chain around her neck looked like a medal, but it was a watch

decadent

The [...] downtown section was once a flourishing business district.

prefabricated

The [...] house was quickly erected by putting together large sections previously constructed at a company.

aggregate

The [...] strength of allies was impressive, though individuals some were quite weak.

adroit

The [...]t passing enabled us to score four touchdowns.

upper crust

The _____ ____ often have at least one summer house. upper class

onus

The _____ is on the prosecution to provide proof of guilt. the responsibility for something

ardor

The ______ Larry brought to the campaign made him a natural campaign spokesperson. fiery intensity of feeling

svelte

The ______ actress glided around the room in her elegant gown. slender and graceful

upshot

The ______ was that after much argument they all agreed to help her. the final result of a situation

sinews

The _______ on his neck stood out like knotted string. a part of your body that connects a muscle to a bone

genteel

The _________ host made sure that each entrée was cooked to each guest's specifications. elegantly polite, well-bred, refined

enormity

The _________ of Jeffrey Dahmer's crimes will never be forgotten. excessive wickedness

impudent

The _________ young woman looked her teacher up and down and told him he was hot. casually rude, insolent, impertinent

nexus

The __________ between the lobbyists and the recent policy changes is clear. a connection or series of connections within a particular situation or system

ethos

The __________ of their group included a commitment to pacifism. the spirit, attitude, characteristic beliefs

aperture

The __________ setting on a camera has to be set perfectly to ensure that pictures will have enough light. an opening or gap, especially one that lets in light

asperity

The __________ that Mark brought to the weekly meetings usually resulted in an early adjourment. harshness, severity

miscreant

The ___________ had eluded the police for months, but today he was finally captured. a villain, criminal

renegade

The ___________ soldier decided to join the guerilla fighters. a deserter, sb who rebels and becomes an outlaw

maladroit

The ___________ waiter broke a dozen plates and spilled coffee on two customers. clumsy, inept

loquacious

The ___________ woman sitting next to me talked the entire time. talkative, garrulous

recalcitrant

The ____________ child was sent to the principal's office for the third time in a week. disobedient, unruly

sundry

The ____________ items in her backpack reveal a great deal about her personality. various, miscellaneous

venal

The ____________ judge was removed and disbarred. easily bribed or corrupted

fervor

The ____________ of the fans in the stands helped propel the team to victory. zeal, ardor

supplicants

The _____________ begged for forgiveness. a person who asks humbly for sth

bumptious

The _____________ man could not stop talking about himself or looking in the mirror. arrogant, conceited

ostensible

The _____________ reason for the meeting is to discuss the candidates, but I believe they've already made their decision. seeming, appearing as such, pretended

obstreperous

The ______________ child refused to go to bed. noisily and stubbornly defiant

pertinacious

The _______________ journalist finally uncovered the truth about the factory's illegal disposal of toxins. holding firmly to a belief, purpose or course of action

felicitous

The ________________ turn of events during her promotional tour propelled Susan's book to the bestseller list. marked by good fortune

hot potato

The abortion issue is a political ____ _______ in the United States. sth difficult or dangerous to deal with

implicate

The accused is not only guilty part; two other are were also implicated.

abdicate

The aging king [...] his throne and went into retirement.

Domicile

The announcement read:" The Coppers have moved, and they invite you to visit them at their new [...], 22 Apple Street.

piqued

The article really ________ my interest in wildlife preservation. to arouse, provoke

unconcern

The audience was breathless with anxiety during the daring tightrope act, though the acrobats themselves performed with seeming [...]for their own safety.

vets

The author ______ every script for the new TV series. to check a report, speech etc carefully to make sure it is acceptable

royalty

The author of a very famous article published in the New York Times was paid high ________. a payment made to a writer

abrasion

The automobile is a total wreck but the driver luckily escaped with minor cuts and abrasion.

cold feet

The backup quarterback was called into the game, but he got _____ _____ and refused to go in. to be too fearful to undertake or complete an action

Magnify

The bacteria in your textbook are greatly [...], their real size is considerably smaller.

pillaged

The barbarians _____________ the village before destroying it with fire. to forcibly rob of goods, especially in time of war

misfire:

The bear escaped when the hunter's rifle [...]

disrepair

The bicycle I lent Tom had been in good condition, but he returned it in [...]

kleptomania

The billionaire who was caught shoplifting was found to be suffering from [...].

sacrilegious

The book was criticized by the church for being ______________. disrespectful or irreverent towards sth sacred

inconsolable

The boy was ____________ after the death of his dog. so sad that it is impossible for anyone to comfort you

immobilized

The broken limb must be ___________ immediately. to prevent sth from moving

dead-cat bounce

The broker said, It was a ____-____ ______. Stocks remain low. very little recovery after a loss, not coming up again

puny

The building dwarfs the surrounding buildings. By comparison to it, they seem [...] .

stealthy

The burglar must have been very [...] if he was able to get past the two watchmen without being noticed.

fortitude:

The captain showed remarkable [...] in continuing to lead their men despite painful wound.

circumspect

The captain was __________ as he guided the boat through the fog. cautious, wary

sumptuous

The car with the leather upholstery and thick rugs is beautiful but a bit [...] for a person of my simple tastes.

partiality

The chairman must avoid any appearance of ________. unfair support of one person or one group against another

dulcet

The chamber orchestra's ______________ tunes were a perfect ending to a great evening. melodious, sweet-sounding

proclivity

The child showed no _________ towards aggression. a tendency to behave in a particular way

upbraided

The child was _________ for misbehaving during the ceremony. to reprove, reproach sharply

teeming

The city is __________ with tourists this summer. to be full of

undercharging

The city is grossly __________ companies to use the land. to charge less than the correct amount of money for something

synchronize

The clocks in the library need to be [...]; one is a minute and a half behind the other.

unsavoury

The club has an ________ reputation. unpleasant, morally unacceptable

communal

The college has __________ dining rooms, nurseries and clinics. shared by a group of people

carrying the torch

The columnist feels that he is _______ the _____ of liberalism in an age of conservatism. to carry on a cause

rejoinder

The comment immediately drew a sharp __________ from a friend. an answer or reply

overreached

The company ___________ itself financially. to try to do more than you have the power, ability, or money to do

breaching

The company accused him of ________ his contract. to break a law, rule, or agreement

across the board

The company is proposing to cut spending right ________ the ______. in every part or area

dissident

The compromise was welcomed by all the strikers except a small [...] group who felt that the raises were too small.

covenant

The contract contained a restrictive _________ against building on the land. a formal agreement, a promise

segued

The conversation _______ into banter about the Cup Final. to move smoothly from one song, idea, activity, condition etc to another

lacklustre

The corporation's profits increased dramatically this year, after a rather _________ performance last year. dull

on the boil

The corruption scandal is being kept ____ the ______ by a series of new revelations. very strong or active

immaculate

The curtains were spotless; the tablecloth was [...], too.

contagion

The danger of ________ is very small. a situation in which a disease is spread by people touching each other

slaked

The deer ____________ its thirst at the river. to satisfy

overwhelm

The department store guards were nearly [...] by the crowds of shoppers waiting for the sale to begin.

influx

The discovery of gold in California in 1848 caused a large [...] of settlers from the East.

incisive

The discussion wasn't going anywhere until her _________  comment allowed everyone to see what the true issues were. clear, sharp, direct

apprised

The district chairman was fully _______ of all the details. to tell or give someone information about something

go on the wagon

The doctor ordered her to ____ on the __________, and she hasn't touched a drop since. abstain from alcohol

cold comfort

The doctor said only his legs are paralysed, not his whole body, but I think that will be ______ __________ to him. won't make him feel better

clandestine

The doctor was arrested after she was named as a member of a _________ socialist movement. done or kept secret

timorous

The dog was ____________, and it took a great deal of coaxing to get him to come near the car. fearful, afraid

conclave

The double agent had a ___________ with the spy he was supposed to be observing. a private, secret meeting

making passes

The drunk kept on _______ ______ at her. to try insistently to pick sb up

in the toilet

The economy is rapidly going ____ the ________ and the country is in a mess. in a bad condition

concurrent

The exhibition reflected _________ developments abroad. existing or happening at the same time

over my head

The explanation went completely _____ my ______. to be too difficult for someone to understand

disintegrate

The explosion [...]ed an entire wing of the factory.

eradicate

The exterminator said he would _____________ the vermin from the house. to root out and utterly destroy

indictment

The fact that these children cannot read is a damning _________ of our education system. a very clear sign that sth is very bad

absolve

The fact that you were absent when the assignment was given does not absolve you from doing homework. Of the three suspects, two were found guilty and the third was [...].

traded down

The family ________ _____ to a smaller house, cutting their mortgage payments in half. to exchange sth expensive for sth that costs less

desultory

The family became concerned listening to their grandmother's ___________ ramblings. done without any particular plan or purpose

got to the bottom

The family finally ____ to the ______ of why their daughter was killed. to discover the truth about sth

closure

The firm is threatened with ________. the permanent closing, e.g. of a business

magnanimous

The first time I was late, Miss O'Neil excused me with the warning that she would not be [...] the next time.

imperil

The fishing vessel was [...]ed by high winds, but it managed to reach port safely.

wholesome

The food is fresh, _________ and imaginative. considered to have a good moral effect

next of kin

The form must be signed by your ____ of _____. your closest living relative

Citadel

The fortified city of Singapore was once considered unconquerable. In 1942, however, this [...] fell to the Japanese.

every inch

The general stood straight and tall at the podium, looking _____ ____ a soldier. sb whose appearance seems perfectly fitting to their profession or status

dissimilar

The gloves are not a pair; they look quite [...] .

intemperate

The governor said he would not be provoked into _________ action. not controlled and too extreme and violent

palliate

The governor tried to _____________ his malfeasance. to make sth less severe

malfeasance

The governor tried to palliate his _____________. illegal activity, especially by a government official

impeached

The governor was _________ for using state funds improperly. to be formally charged with a serious crime in a special government court

coeval

The growth of personal computers and CD players was __________ during the twentieth century. of the same period

scrutinize

The guard at the gate [...]d his pass before letting him in, but he just glanced at mine.

sideshow

The initial conflict was a mere _________ compared with the World War that followed. an event that is much less important or serious than another one

inscription

The inscription on Paul's medal reads " For excellence in English"

legacy

The invasion left a ______ of hatred and fear. something that happens or exists as a result of things that happened at an earlier time

multifarious

The job requires the ability to handle _____________ tasks. occuring in great variety

pundits

The journalist consulted several legal ____________ before drafting the article. a learned person or scholar

culprit

The last time we were late for the party, I was the [...]. I was not ready when you called for me.

approbation

The local authorities issued an ___________ to close the street for a festival on St. Patrick's Day. approval

funereal

The local weather was always ________. sad, slow, and suitable for a funeral

uproot

The love of liberty is so firmly embedded in men's hearts that no tyrant can hope to [...] it.

apprise

The magazine has [...]ed its readers of an increase in rates beginning January 1.

palatable

The main dish had little flavor, but I made it [...] by adding condiments.

dismal

The main part of the hospital is pretty _________ but the children's ward is really lively. sad and depressing

incursion

The media was criticized for its thoughtless ____________ into the domestic grief of the family. the sudden arrival of sth into where they aren't welcome

hide-bound

The men are ______ and reactionary. having old-fashioned attitudes and ideas

stymied

The negotiations were ___________ by yet another attack. to hinder, obstruct

impasse

The negotiations with management reached an _____________. a deadlock, stalemate

resonant

The new announcer at the stadium has a wonderfully _______________ voice. echoing, resounding

vestiges

The new law removed the last __________ of royal power. a small part or amount of sth that remains when most of it no longer exists

regenerate

The new manager [...]d the losing team and made it a strong contender for first place.

incongruous

The new theatre looks utterly ___________ in its setting. strange, unexpected, or unsuitable

mouthpiece

The newspaper has become the official __________ of the opposition party. a person, newspaper, etc. that informs the public about the opinions of a group of people or political organization

put our heads together

The next morning, we all _____ our ______ together to decide what should be done. to discuss a difficult problem together

ill at ease

The old gentleman obviously felt ____ at _______ while he waited to have his hair cut. worried and uncomfortable

Frugal

The old man had nothing to eat but bread and cheese; yet he offered to share this frugal meal with his visitor. The allowance of $5 a week for lunches and fares is not much, but you can get by on it if you are [...].

interurban

The only way to get to the next town is by automobile or taxi; there is no [...] bus.

nullify

The opponents wanted to _____________ the bill before it became a law. to make null, invaliade

enjoined

The organisation has been _________ to end all restrictions. to order or try to persuade sb to do sth

truculent

The outspoken congresswoman gave a _______________ speech arguing against the proposal. bitterly expressing opposition

remiss

The owner of stolen car was himself [...] He left the keys in the vehicle.

free reign

The owners gave the chef ______ ______ to create a new menu. to allow sb complete freedom

discredit

The parents [...]ed the child's story since he was in the habit of telling falsehoods.

perforate.

The physician said the tack had gone through Baby's shoe and sock without [...] her skin

coercive

The police may have used ___________ tactics to get confessions. using threats or orders to make sb do sth they do not want to do

imputed

The police were not guilty of the violence _________ to them. to say, often unfairly, that sb is responsible for sth bad

malapropism

The politician's ____________ may make us laugh, but they will not win our votes. a comical misuse of words

beneficiary

The poor and the needy will be the beneficiaries of your gift to the community fund.

creature comforts

The poor frequently lack the _______ ______ the rest of us take for granted. the basic physical things that make life pleasant — good food, warm clothing, etc

without number

The potential applications are almost ______ _____. there are so many of them that no one could count them all

petulant

The pouting and sulking child could only be described as ______________. peevish, unreasonably irritated or annoyed

fettered

The presence of two security guards ______________ the teenagers' plans to get backstage. to impede, restrict

proxy

The president appointed a ___________ to handle business matters during his absence. a person or agent authorized to represent or act for another

immovable

The president is _______ on this issue. impossible to change or persuade

sycophants

The president is surrounded by ______________, so how will he really know if his ideas have merit? a person who tries to win the favor of influential people through flattery

reprisal

The president promised a swift __________ for the attack. the practice of using political or military force without actually resorting to war

hit home

The president's message seemed to ____ ______ with most people who watched him on TV. to be understood completely and have a strong effect

unscramble

The previous secretary had mixed up the files so badly that it took my sister about a week to [...] them.

upheaval

The prime minister's proposal for new taxes created such an [...] that his government fell.

die a death

The principle of free health care for everyone is likely to _____ a ______ in the next ten years. to fail and end

intertwined

The problems of crime and unemployment are closely ____________. closely related to each other

pugnacious

The professor had been __________ and irritable. very eager to argue or fight with people

dogmatic

The professor's _____________ style of conversations was not very popular with his students. having ideas that you won't change

coerced

The rebels ___________ the villagers into hiding them from the army. to force sb to do sth they do not want to do by threatening them

makeshift

The refugees slept in __________ tents at the side of the road. made to be used for a short time only when nothing better is available

absolves

The report _________ the pilot from any blame for the crash. to state officially that sb is free of any blame

erroneous

The report of your beheading was apparently __________. based on or containing error; mistaken; wrong

divulge

The reporter refused to ___________ her source. to disclose

outrage

The response to the jury's verdict was one of ________. a feeling of great anger and shock

plain sailing

The roads were busy as we drove out of town but after that it was _____ _______ all the way to the coast. very easy

vigor

The robust young pitcher performed with his usual [...] for seven innings, but he weakened in the eighth and was removed from the game.

flash in the pan

The rock group that was all the rage last year turned out to be just another _____ in the _____. sth that promises great success but soon fails

sombre

The room was painted in ________ colours. dark and dull

untenable

The scandal put the President in an __________ position. one that has become so difficult that it's impossible to continue

pocket

The school governors are completely in the head teacher's ______. to do everything that sb wants you to do

backdrop

The sea made a splendid _________ to the garden. the scenery behind sth

underfed

The servants were overworked and ________. not given enough food to eat

titillating

The sex scandal is ________ the American public. to make sb feel excited or interested, esp. in a sexual way

oligarchy

The small governing body calls itself a democracy, but it is clearly an ___________. form of government in which the power is in the hands of a select few

ambush

The soldiers were killed in an _______. a sudden attack on someone by people who have been hiding and waiting for them, or the place where this happens

deft

The songs demonstrate Costello's ______ wordplay. skilful

piquant

The spicy shrimp saland is wonderfully ___________. pleasantly sharp in taste

gung-ho

The sporting opportunities here should suit the most ____-___ of tourists. very eager to do something dangerous or violent

succulent

The stake will be dry if you leave it in the oven longer. Take it out now if you want it to be [...].

appropriate

The state legislature will _____________ two million dollars from the budget to build a new bridge. to take for one's own use

dappled

The statue was ________ with light from a stained-glass window. to mark sth with spots of colour, light, or shade

malcontent

The stoppage was caused by [...]s who felt they had been ignored when the promotions were made.

unabated

The storm continued __________ throughout the night. without becoming any weaker

counter

The student's plan to drop out of school ran [...] to his parents' wishes.

moot

The students continued to discuss the ______ point, even after class was over. debatable, undecided

denouement

The students sat at the edge of their seats as they listened to the ____________ of the story. the resolution of the plot at the end of a narrative

cue

The studio manager will _____ you when it's your turn to come on. to give someone a sign that it is the right moment for them to speak

delineate

The survey will clearly ____________ where their property ends. to draw, outline, depict, portray

fictitious

The suspect said he lived at 234 Green Street, but he later admitted it was a [...] address.

incontrovertible

The suspect's fingerprints on the safe were considered [...] evidence that he had participated in the robbery.

overt

The teacher didn't believe that Ned was annoying me until she saw him in the [...] act of pulling my hair.

altercation:

The teacher halted the [...] by separating two opponents before they could come to blows.

countermand

The teacher ordered the students to go to the end of the line, but the teacher [...]ed the order.

evince

The teacher tried to __________ the complexity of the material to be covered in the exam. to show or demonstrate

nebulous

The term cyber-culture is _________ and seems to mean many different things to many different people. vague and difficult to define

purloined

The thief ______________ a sculpture worth thousands of dollars. to steal

red

The thought of Pierre with Nicole had made her see ___. to become very angry

Exempt

The three students are exempt from the spelling test, they got 100% in the original test.

talk turkey

The time has come to ____ _______ about our national debt. to discuss in a straightforward manner

stupendous

The towers were jammed together so tightly, he could feel the mass and ________ weight. magnificent

impugn

The treasurer should not have been offended when asked for a financial report. No one was [...]ing his honesty.

resettled

The tribesmen were forcibly ___________ by the government. to go to live in a new country or area, or to help people do this

picayune

The trouble with your studying is that you spend too much time on [...] details and not enough on the really important matters.

burgeon

The tulip bulbs beneath the soil would _________ in early spring. to begin to grow and flourish

harrowing

The turbulent flight proved to be a _______________ experience for Jane. distressing, creating great stress or torment

maltreat

The two new photographers were attacked by the mob, and their cameras were smashed. It is disgraceful that they were so [...]

Dispel

The two officers were commended for their skill in [...]ng the mob and preventing violence

propinquity

The two scientific elements demonstrate a remarkable ________________. affinity, similarity in nature

interwoven

The two themes are inextricably ___________ in the book. closely related or combined in a complicated way

essence:

The union and management held a lengthy meeting without getting to the [...] of the men's dissatisfaction-low wages.

defiance

The union showed [...] of the court order against the strike by calling the workers off their jobs.

unnerve

The unsportsmanlike noises of the fans so [...]d our star player that he missed two foul shots in a row.

quiescent

The volcano is ____________ at the moment, but who knows when it wil erupt again. inactive, dormant

dissent:

The vote approving the amendment was far from unanimous; six members [...].

repose

The wail of a police siren disturbed my _____________. calmness, tranquility, peace of mind

Segregation

The warden believes in [...] from the first offender to hardened criminals

eleventh hour

The water bombers arrived at the _______ _____ — just in time to prevent the forest fire from engulfing the town. the last minute

abate

The water shortage is abating, but it is a matter of concern. Mike's close defeat in tennis tournament has not [...]d his zeal for the game.

intermittent

The weather forecast is for sun, with ____________ showers. sporadic

craft

The weavers of the Oriental rugs are famous for their superior [...] The Greek took Troy by craft; they use the trick of the wooden horse.

avowal

The white flag of surrenders is an [...] of defeat.

longevity

The worms have a ________ of about two years. the amount of time that sth lives

misdeed:

The wrongdoer was punished for his [...] by a fine and imprisonment.

intractable

The young colt was _______________, and training had to be cancelled temporarily. unmanageable, stubborn

lavish

The young heir was warned that he would soon have nothing left if he continued to be [...] with his money. Vera's composition is good, but it doesn't deserve the lavish praise that Linda gave it.

intimidate

The younger boy would not have given the playing field so quickly if the older boys had not [...]d them.

breakwaters

The zigzag of harbour walls and ___________ below the cliff were deserted. a wall built out into the sea to protect the shore from the force of the waves

cadge

Their dog would _______ at my feet, hoping I would throw him some table scraps. to beg

ineluctable

Their failure, though __________, shocked everybody. impossible to avoid

on the ball

Their staff seems to be really ____ the _______, able to get projects done on time. active and aware of things

respite

Their teacher was away, so they had a day's __________ before their essays were due. a pause or rest from something difficult or unpleasant

Cohesion

There can be no real [...] in an alliance if the parties have little in common.

straws in the wind

There have been a few ____ in the ______ suggesting things might be getting a little better. a sign of what might happen in the future

divergence

There is a _________ of opinion on the benefits of technology. a difference between two or more things

transpose

There is a misspelled word on your paper "strenght". Correct it by [...] the last two letters.

condiment

There is a shelf in our kitchen for pepper, salt, mustard, catsup and other condiments.

tinge

There was a ____ of sadness in her voice. a very small amount

bevy

There was a lively __________ of eager bingo fans waiting outside the bingo hall. a large group or assemblage

mélange

There was a very interesting ____________ of people at the party. a mixture or assortment

bellicose

There was little hope for peace following the election of a candidate known for his ____________ nature. eager to wage war, quarrelsome

tactful

There was no _________ way of phrasing what he wanted to say. not likely to upset or embarrass other people

intermittent:

There were intervals when the sun broke through the clouds , because the showers were intermittent.

gloom and doom

There's been so much ______ and ________ here, I think we should try to provide a smile. the feeling that a situation is bad and is not likely to improve

complacency

There's no room for _________ if we want to stay in this competition! a feeling of calm satisfaction with your own abilities or situation that prevents you from trying harder

ruminative

These speeches had to be rich in literary illusion and ________ aphorism. thinking deeply and carefully about something

fallible

These surveys are often a rather _______ guide to public opinion. able to make mistakes or be wrong

struck it lucky

They ______ it _______ with their second album which became an immediate best-seller. to suddenly have good luck

pedestrianizing

They are __________ the town square. to make an area into one where vehicles are not allowed to go

bilking

They are charged with __________ investors out of millions of dollars. to get money from sth in a dishonest way

glitches

They can't manufacture the device till they've ironed out all the production ________. a small fault in the operation

poseurs

They can't sing. They're just a bunch of ____________ with guitars. sb who puts on airs to impress others

slush fund

They created a _____ ____ to bribe influential officials. a fund of money used for illegal purposes

proprietary

They have ________ rights to the data. relating to who owns something

rescinded

They have ___________ their offer, so we must find another buyer. to repeal or cancel

pop the question

They have been going out for so long; I wonder when he'll ____ the ______. to propose marriage

encroach

They have promised that the development will not ________ on public land. to gradually cover more and more of an area of land

doused

They heard his screams and ________ the flames before calling emergency services. to stop a fire from burning by pouring water on it

salvage

They managed to ________ only a few of their belongings from the fire. to save something from an accident or bad situation

pinpoint

They need to _______ exactly what skills are necessary. to discover or explain exactly the real facts about something or the cause of a problem

blight

They still don't know what caused the ___________ that destroyed half of the trees in the orchard. sth that impairs or destroys

exemplar

They viewed their achievements as an ________ of progress. sth that is considered to be so good that it should be copied or imitated

fomenting

They were accused of _________ rebellion. to cause trouble and make people start fighting each other or opposing the government

adroit

They were remarkably _______ in their cultivation of the foreign press. clever and skilful, especially in the way you use words and arguments

head for heights

They were seated by one of the windows, and Paige was glad she had a ______ for _______. the ability to look down from high places without feeling ill or nervous

conjoined

Third, his anxieties about homosexuality were _________ with class antagonism. to join together, or to make things or people do this

vacuous

This TV show is yet another ____________ sitcom. empty, purposeless

sordid

This _____________ establishment should be shut down immediately. morally degraded

defamation

This article is a _________ of an honest politician. a lie about sb that damages one's reputation

see the light of day

This decision will ensure that the Pentagon Papers never ____ the ____ of ____. to be brought out so that people can see it

tenets

This pamphlet describes the _____________ of Amnesty International. a belief, principle held to be true

standalone

This program can be used as a __________ application or from within Microsoft Frontpage. not being part of sth else

melts in your mouth

This sponge cake just _____ in your ______. to be soft and taste very pleasant

Deviate:

This teacher notifies the parents when a student neglects his homework, and he will not [...] his rule in your case.

perverse

Though I had carefully explained the shorter routes to him, the [...] youngster came by the longer way.

solitude

Though I like company, there are times when I prefer [...] .

acquiesce

Though I wasn't enthusiastic about Tom's plan to go fishing, I [...]ed in it because there seemed there was nothing else to do

unabridged

Though an abridged dictionary is convenient to use, it contains far fewer definitions than an [...] dictionary.

plucky:

Though defeated, our team put up a [...] defense against taller and huskier opponents.

accord:

Though we are in [...] on what our goals should be, but we differ on the means for achieving them.

Diminutive

To an observer in an airplane high over the city​, the largest buildings seem [...]

endure

To carry on through despite hardships; to put up with

death wish

To challenge the Mafia would be a ____ _____. saying you want to die, inviting death

seclude

To find a quiet place to study, Bruce had to [...] himself in the attic.

means

To own an expensive home, a yacht, and a limousine, you need to be a man of [...].

complaisant

To preserve family harmony, Lenny became very ____________ when his in-laws came to visit. tending to comply, obliging, willing to do what pleases others

salutary

To promote better health, I've decided to move to a more _____________ climate. producing a beneficial effect

did a number

Tod really ____ a _______ on the old house. I don't envy the new tenants. (to hurt or damage someone or something badly)

abrupt

Today's art lesson came to an [...] end when the gongs sounded for a fire drill.

withdraw .

Tom is my principal backer. If he [...] his support, I don't see how I can be elected

repudiated

Tom made a strong case for an extension of his curfew, but his mother __________ it with a few biting words. to reject, refuse to accept

dissemble

Tom needed to __________ his goal of taking his boss's job by acting supportive of his boss's planned job change. to disguise or conceal one's true motives

confirmed bachelor

Tom was 54 and not married which meant he was a ________ ________. a man who is not likely to get married

inured

Trisha had become ___________ to her boss's criticism, so it no longer bothered her. accustomed to, adapted

insurrection

Troops had to be used in 1794 to put down an [...]

mutable

Truth is a _________ commodity, even among its purveyors. able or likely to change

civil

Try at least to be ______. polite in a formal but not very friendly way

at sixes and sevens

Trying to cram for this math test has me all at _____ and ______. in a state of confusion or disorder

leverage

Turkey has promised not to use its control of the rivers for political ________. influence that you can use to make people do what you want

on the double

Two doctors arrived ____ the _______ to treat the victims of the accident. very quickly

aver

Two eyewitnesses [...]ed they had seen the defendant at the scene.

perjury

Two of my employees were convicted for ________ as they lied to judge to protect me. the action of telling a lie in a lawcourt

detained

Two suspects have been __________ by the police for questioning. to officially prevent someone from leaving a place

inadvertent

Unfortunately, I made an [...] remark about Irma's failure while he was present.

derisory

Unions described the pay offer as ________. so small that it not worth considering seriously

dilapidated

Up the road was an abandoned farmhouse, partially in ruins, and near it a barn, even more [...].

apex

Upon reaching the ________ of the mountain, the climbers placed their flag in the snow. the highest point

flippant

Ursula's ____________ remarks in front of her fiancé's parents were an embarrassment to us all. not showing proper seriousness

iconoclast

Using words as weapons, the well-spoken ___________ challenged religious hypocrisy wherever she found it. sb who opposes and destroys idols used in worship

shunned

Victims of the disease found themselves __________ by society. to deliberately avoid someone or something

auspicious

Victoria believed it an ____________ beginning when it rained on the day that she opened her umbrella store. favorable

feigned

Walter _________ illness to avoid attending the meeting. to pretend

pristine

Washing machine for sale - only two months old and in ________ condition. in its original condition

implacable

Watch out: once you shun Grandmother's cooking, she is totally __________. incapable of being appeased or mitigated

sloshing

Water was _________ about in the bottom of the boat. move about in an uncontrolled way

endeavor

We always _____________ to please our customers. to try very hard

assemblage

We are not just an ________ of chemicals or a mindless machine. a group of things collected together

indispensable:

We can do without luxuries and entertainment. However, food, clothing and, shelter are [...].

complacent

We can't afford to become __________ about any of our products. feeling so satisfied with your own abilities or situation that you feel you do not need to try any harder

on the level

We doubted that the offer could be genuine, but it turned out to be ___ the _______. honest, without deception

intercept

We gained possession of the ball when Russ [...]intercepted a forward pass.

desist

We hope that the military regime will _______ from its acts of violence. to stop doing something

outrun

We scored a touchdown when Joel caught a forward pass and [...] his pursuers

exacerbate

We should have known that splashing salt water on the wound would _____________ the pain. to make worse

pliable

We tried to get Joe to change his mind, but he was not [...] . Perhaps you can influence him.

lavish

We were always _________ with financial aid in times of crisis. very generous

buy time

We were quickly running out of money but managed to ____ ______ by getting a small loan. to obtain a longer period before something happens

presently

We won't have to wait long for our bus. It will be here [...]presently

superfluous

We're cutting out __________ layers of managers. more than needed

insouciant

Wendy's ______________ attitude toward her future concerned her father. unconcerned, carefree

silent majority

What does the _______ _________ expect from a new Labour government? the large numbers of people in a country or group who do not express their opinions publicly

self-preservation

What seems to motivate Congress is ____-________ - a desire to get re-elected. protection of yourself and your own life in a threatening or dangerous situation

soliloquy

What the actor says in a [...] is heard by no one except the audience.

Secede

When Abraham Lincoln was elected President in 1860, South Carolina [...] d from the Union.

hit the ceiling

When Corey found out someone had stolen his CD player, he really ____ the ________. to become extremely angry

shut up like a clam

When I asked him about his trip to Korea, he ____ ____ like a ____. to suddenly stop talking and to refuse to say any more

proficient

When I fell behind in French, the teacher asked one of the most [...] students to help me.

wrangle:

When I left, two neighbors were quarreling noisily. When I returned an hour later, they were still [...]ng

burnish

When Kate began to _________ the old teapot, she realized that it was solid silver. to polish, rub to a shine

ends meet

When Mike lost his job, we could barely make ____ _____. (to have only just enough money to buy the things you need)

Infallible

When Phill disputes my answer or I question his,we often take it to our math teacher. We consider her judgement [...].

dissolution

When President Lincoln took office, the Union faced imminent [...] .

Capsize:

When Sam's canoe [...]ed, I swam over to help him turn it right side up

rash:

When a person loses his temper, he may say something [...] and regret it afterwards.

tranquil

When a place or your state of mind is peaceful, quiet and serene.

Reflection:

When a question is complicated, don't give the answer that comes to mind. Take time for [...] Yesterday's defeat was no reflection on our players;they did their very best.

concurrent

When a strike is settled, there will probably be an increase in wages and a [...] increase in prices.

undersell

When discount houses tried to [...]the department stores, the latter reduced prices too, and adopted the slogan " We will not be undersold".

surmised

When he came in, he didn't look up, so she _________ that he was in a bad mood. to guess that something is true, using the information you know already

scowled

When he said he didn't agree with her she _________ at him and left the room. to look at someone in an angry way

over the moon

When he sent me flowers and a note, I was ______ the ______. extremely happy

upright

When knocked off his feet, the boxer waited till the count of nine before returning to the [...] position.

unshackle

When mutinous sailors were put in irons in the older days, nobody was allowed to [...] them

flux

When prices are in the state of [...], many buyers delay purchases until the conditions are more settled.

incredulity

When she told her family she was gay, they reacted with a mixture of shock and ____________. disbelief

castigate

When she was caught stealing for the second time, Maya knew her mother would _____________ her. to inflict a severe punishment on

face the music

When the missing money was noticed, he chose to disappear rather than _______ the ________. to accept criticism or punishment for sth that you have done

overbearing

When the monitor gave too many orders, the teacher scolded him for being [...]

upstart

When the new representative entered the legislature, some older members received him coldly because they regarded him as an [...]

understudy

When the star is recuperating from her illness,her role will be played by her [...]

inmate

When the warder took charge, the prison had fewer than 100 [...].

conscript

When there are not enough volunteers for the armed forces, the government [...] additional men

underscore

When we take notes, the teacher wants us to [...] the items that are especially important.

thumbs

Where plumbing is concerned, Walter is all ______. clumsy, awkward

epicurean

While on vacation at a posh resort hotel, Joan became a true ____________. a person devoted to the pursuit of pleasure

demented

Whoever did this must have been demented, no sane person would have been acted in such a way.

gunning

Why is he ________ for me? to be trying to find an opportunity to criticize or harm someone

have a bash

Why not _____ a _____ at windsurfing? to try to do something, especially when you are not sure that you will succeed

Fatigue

Why not take the elevator? Climbing up the stairs will [...] you.

pandemonium

Wild disorder, noise or confusion

roiled

Wild swings in prices _________ the stock market. to make sb feel nervous and annoyed

cabal

With Andrew as their leader, the members of the unit readied themselves to begin the __________. a scheme or conspiracy

curt

With a ____ nod, he turned away and sat down. using very few words in a way that seems rude

excise

With a penknife, he peeled the apple and [...]d the wormy part.

malediction

With her dying breath, Queen Dido pronounced a [...] on Aeneas and all his descendants.

epitome

With his ten-gallon hat, western shirt, and rugged jeans, Alex was the _____________ of the American cowboy. a representative example

dowry

With his wife's [...], the young attorney was able to open a law office.

meretricious

With its casinos and attractions, some people consider Las Vegas the most ________________ city in the country. showily attractive but false or insincere

ungag

With the dictator's downfall, the censorship decrees were abolished and the press was [...]

out of the picture

With the national government ____ of the __________, local leaders will have to work out a solution. no not be involved in a situation

underdressed

Without a pinstripe, you'd be ___________. wearing clothes that are too informal for a particular occasion

ado

Without much _____, she completed her book report. fuss, trouble, bother

relegated

Women tended to be ________ to typing and filing jobs. to give someone or something a less important position than before

dross

Work crews immediately began the task of cleaning the _______ at the abandoned plastics factory. waste product

on tap

Working in a library, I have all this information ___ _____. available and ready to use

eke out

Working two jobs enabled Tom to _____ ___ a living wage for his family. to succeed in getting the things one needs to live

Nomadic

Would you like to give up your permanent residence for the [...] adventures of trailer living.

mislay:

Yesterday I [...]d the biology book, it took me about a half of hour to find it.

baleful

You can be certain to find at least one __________ character in a Stephen King horror novel. harmful, sinister

adherent

You can count on Martha to support in your campaign for reelection. She is one of your most loyal [...]s.

refraction

You can see __________ of light in action by placing a drinking straw in a glass of water. bending of light rays when they pass from one transparent material to another

number

You can tell Cara *has his* _______. She knows exactly how to handle him when he's mad. (to understand something about someone that helps you deal with them)

dexterity

You can't expect an apprentice to have the same [...] as a master craftsman.

attenuate

You could never eliminate risk, but preparation and training could ____________ it. to reduce, weaken

retain

You have the right to ________ possession of the goods. to keep something or continue to have something

train of thought

You interrupted my _______ of ________ - Now I can't remember what I was going to say. a series of connected thoughts

dilatory

You might expect politicians to smooth things out when civil servants are being __________. slow and causing delay

slovenly

You would not expect anyone so neat in her personal appearance to be [...] in her housekeeping.

vehement

Your protest was too mild. If it had been more [...], the dealer might have paid attention to it

frontier

[...] (of something) the limit of something, especially the limit of what is known about a particular subject or activity to push back the [...]s of science (= to increase knowledge of science)

confer

[...] (with somebody) (on/about something) to discuss something with somebody, consulting sb He wanted to [...] with colleagues before reaching a decision

stringent

[...] air quality regulations very strict and that must be obeyed Licences are only granted under the most stringent conditions

flair

[...] for something a natural ability to do something well He has a flair for languages.

Nomad

[...] have no fixed homes, but move from region to region to secure their food supply.

foresight:

[...] is better than hindsight.

herald

[...] something to be a sign that something is going to happen These talks could [...] a new era of peace.

reroute

[...] something to change the route that a road, vehicle, telephone call, etc. normally follows to [...] a road

curb

[...] something to control or limit something, especially something bad synonym check

inaugurate

[...] something to officially open a building or start an organization with a special ceremony The new theatre was [...]d by the mayor.

Notwithstanding

[...] their advantage of height, the visiting players were unable to beat our basketball team.

expel

[...]ed from the university because of the poor grades, the student applied for readmission the following term.

sway

[...]sway somebody to persuade somebody to believe something or do something synonym influence He's easily [...]ed.

Up-to-the-minute-news

___-__-___-______-_____ is provided by 24 hour channels like Sky News or CNN. news having or including the most recent information possible

Good grief

_______ _____, look at all this food! Are you feeding an army? I'm very surprised

Breathe new life

________ new ______ into a tired old bathroom with a coat of brightly coloured paint in this season's exciting colours. to make sth seem interesting again

peremptory

a ____________ demand for silence that is not polite or friendly and shows that the person speaking expects to be obeyed immediately

impassible

adj. Not moved or affected by feeling.

arduous

an ________ climb difficult, tiring

impregnable

an __________ fortress so strong that it cannot be entered by force

trigger

an act that sets in motion some course of events

gimmick

an unusual trick or unnecessary device that is intended to attract attention or to persuade people to buy something a promotional/publicity/sales [...]

Perseverance

continued effort and determination: Through hard work and [...] , he worked his way up to the top.

incessant

continuing without interruption

forge

falsify

renown

fame

enclosure

fenced-in area

warrior

fighter

aversion

firm dislike

freight

goods, but not passengers, that are carried from one place to another, by ship, aircraft, train, or truck, or the system of transporting these goods: The ship carries both [...] and passengers.

spacious

having a lot of room

arid

having little or no rain; too dry or barren to support vegetation.

diligent

having or showing care and conscientiousness in one's work or duties.

erudite

having or showing great knowledge that is gained from academic study synonym learned She could turn any conversation into an [...]discussion.

disconcerting

having or showing great knowledge that is gained from academic study synonym learned She could turn any conversation into an erudite [...]

foster

help develop, help grow

spring up

to appear or develop quickly and/or suddenly Play areas for children are [...]ing up all over the place. Opposition groups are [...] like mushrooms

forfeit

to be forced to give up or lose

dwindle

to become gradually less or smaller [...] audiences a dwindling band of supporters

morale

to boost/raise/improve [...] [...] amongst the players is very high at the moment. Staff are suffering from low [...]

telecast

to broadcast something on television The event will be [...] simultaneously to nearly 150 cities

evoke

to call forth

convene

to call together, to assemble

cripple

to cause serious damage to someone or something, making him, her, or it weak and not effective:

defraud

to cheat

subjugate

to conquer by force

rectify

to correct

chastise

to criticize severely, to punish

pick on

to criticize, punish, or be unkind to the same person often and unfairly: He gets [...] by the other boys because he's so small.

impair

to damage something or make something worse His age [...]d his chances of finding a new job. Emotions can sometimes impair your ability to reason properly.

embellish

to decorate

annihilate

to destroy completely

burgeon

to grow and flourish

usher

to guide in a certain direction

deem

to have a particular opinion about something synonym consider

proliferate

to increase in number quickly

enlighten

to inform or give new insight

uphold

to maintain or support

portray

to make a likeness of; to describe in words

enact

to make legal or official

circumvent

to manage to get around especially by ingenuity

delude

to mislead; to fool

stray

to move away from the place where you should be, without intending to He [...]ed into the path of an oncoming car.

cultivate

to nurture, improve, refine

impede

to obstruct or interfere with; to delay

advocate

to speak in favor of

digress

to stray from the main subject At the point of his talk, the speaker digressed to tell us of his incident in his childhood, but then he got right back to his topic.

wrest

to take by force

lambaste

to trash verbally or physically

undermine

to weaken

erode

to wear away

erode (v)

to wear away slowly

plod

to work slowly and continuously, but without imagination, enthusiasm, or interest: For years, he's plodded away at the same dull routine job. Alex is just plodding along at school, making very little progress I'll try not to bore you with lots of [...]ing details.

frailty

weakness and poor health Increasing [...] meant that she was more and more confined to bed. Despite her [...] she manages to work hard

gratuitous:

were it not for your [...] intervention, the children would have quickly settled their dispute.

accede:

when I asked my English teacher if I might change my topic, she readily [...]d to my request.

conform:

when a new style of clothes appears, women usually hasten to confrom it.

overhaul

A mechanic is coming to _________ the engine. to repair or change the necessary parts in a machine, system etc

hue and cry

In the 1980s, there was a great ____ and ____ for educational reform. a loud clamor or protest intended to incite others to action

fulminate

The senator was prone to ____________ when other legislators questioned her ideology. to speak angrily about sth

pilfer

The shoplifter was apprehended with a number of [...]d articles in his possession.

menace

an individual or situation that causes problems My neighbor's dog is a [...] who seems to enjoy going potty on my porch.

cliche

an overused expression

inducted

18 new junior ministers were _________ into the government. to officially give someone a job or position of authority, especially at a special ceremony

discruptive

causing problems, noise, etc. so that something cannot continue normally She had a [...] influence on the rest of the class.

covenanted

6% of our profits are _________ to charity. to promise to pay a fixed sum of money regularly

Puncture

: My neighbor swept a nail off his curb, and later it [...]d one of his own tires.

compact

: The states bordering the Delaware River have entered into a [...] for sharing its water.

Catastrophic

=devastating =disastrous causing a lot of problems for peopleSYNONYM disastrousa [...] failure/collapse/defeat

benevolent

A [...] employer has a sincere interest in the welfare of his employees.

self-confessed

A _____-_______ alcoholic, equally at home on stage and screen, he is starring in two top box office films. admitting that you have a particular quality, especially one that is bad

precocious

A ____________ child, she went to university at the age of 15. showing unusually early mental development or achievement

ravine

A bus plunged 250 feet into a ________, killing thirty people. a deep narrow valley with steep sides

fastidious

A cat is a ____________ animal that washes itself frequently. very careful about small details in your appearance, work etc

irony

A contrast between expectation and reality

go amiss

A cup of tea wouldn't ___ ______. used to say that something would be suitable or useful in a situation

absolute

A democratic ruler is restricted by a constitution and courts, but a dictator has [...] power.

on his shoulders

A district attorney has an awful burden ____ his _________. as a personal responsibility

upheld

A federal court has ______ legislative term limits in Maine. state that the decision was correct

bad name

A few badly behaved football fans give all football supporters a ____ _____. to cause people to lose respect for something or someone

maven

A food _______ could also be called a gourmet. someone who knows a lot about a particular subject

munificent

A former student has donated a __________ sum of money to the college. very generous

latent

A good education will help you discover and develop your [...] talents.

monarchy

A government ruled by a king or queen

decimate

An extended period of neglect would eventually ____________ much of the housing in the inner cities. to destroy a large portion of

euphemism

An indirect, less offensive way of saying something that is considered unpleasant

tawny

And it's only the _______ owl who goes tu-whit-tu-whoo. brownish-yellow in colour

puerile

Andrew is a remarkably successful businessman for someone so __________. childish

irascible

Her ___________ temperament caused many problems with the staff at the office. irritable

mellifluous

Her ____________ voice floated in through the windows and made everyone smile. sounding sweet and flowing

do great credit

Her achievements ___ great ________ to her parents. to bring praise and respect to sb for sth they have done

upturn

Most merchants report a slowdown in the sales for October, but confidently [...] with the approach of Christmas.

procrastinate

Most of the picnickers took cover when rain seemed imminent. The few [...] got drenched.

swing

a change from one opinion or situation to another; the amount by which something changes He is liable to abrupt mood [...] (= for example from being very happy to being very sad).

garland

a circle of flowers and leaves that is worn on the head or around the neck or is hung in a room as decoration The office was decked with [...]s for the party.

broom

a cleaning implement for sweeping; bundle of straws or twigs attached to a long handle

witticism

a clever remark or saying

mettle

a crisis which will test the prime minister's _________ courage and determination to do sth even when it is very difficult

caliber

a degree or grade of excellence or worth

ordeal

a difficult or painful experience, a trial

blight

a disease which, though not fatal, can _____ the lives of its victims to spoil or damage something, especially by preventing people from doing what they want to do

elation

a feeling of great joy or pride

mob

a highly emotional crowd that pursues a violent or destructive goal

perched

a house ________ on a cliff above the town to be in a position on top of sth or on the edge of sth

niche

a job or position that is very suitable for someone, especially one that they like: He has carved/made a [...] for himself as a financial advisor.

feast

a large meal

endeavor

an attempt to do something, especially something new or difficult Please make every endeavour to arrive on time He endeavoured in vain to escape the situation. The buyer should always [...] to negotiate terms..

preconception

an idea or opinion that is formed before you have enough information or experience, assumption

heighten

increase

trident

a long three-pronged fork or weapon

heap

a lot of something There's [...] of time before the plane leaves.

glitch

a malfunction; an error

hue

a particular shade of a given color

janitor

a person employed as a caretaker of a building; a custodian.

eccentric

a person who is considered by other people to be strange or unusual Most people considered him a harmless [...]

civilian

a person who is not in the military

figurehead

a person with apparent but no real authority

orchard

a place where fruit trees are grown

dwelling

a place where people live

fondness

a positive feeling of liking

escrow

a property that is being held in ________ money, land, or a written contract, etc that is held by someone who is not directly involved in an agreement while the agreement is being achieved

venture

a risky or daring undertaking

dementia

a serious mental disorder caused by brain disease or injury, that affects the ability to think, remember and behave normally

crucible

a severe test

tributary

a stream or river that flows into a larger river

moratorium

a suspension of activity; an authorized delay

implement

a tool, utensil, or other piece of equipment, especially as used for a particular purpose. "agricultural [...]"

presentiment

a vague sense of approaching misfortune

heirloom

a valuable object that has belonged to the same family for many years a family [...]

self-willed

a wild and _____-______ child very determined to do what you want, whatever other people think

sallow

a woman with dark hair and a ________ complexion that looks slightly yellow and unhealthy

marvel

a wonderful thing

homonym

a word spelled exactly like another word, but having a different meaning

affidavit

a written statement that you swear is true, for use as proof in a court of law

equable

a young man with a naturally __________ temperament that remains calm and happy and does not often get annoyed

supple

able to change quickly and successfully to suit different conditions: She has shown that she has a supple mind. Regular yoga will help you to keep a [...] form.

impending

about to happen

profuse

abundant

reportedly

according to what some people say

archaic

ancient; old-fashioned

aggravating

annoying

forebear:

ant: descendant; His [...] migrated to American for Ireland.

apprehension

anxiety or fear that something bad or unpleasant will happen

rodent

any small animal that belongs to a group of animals with strong sharp front teeth. Mice, rats and squirrels are all [...]s.

facet

aspect

affinity

attraction

appealing

attractive or interesting

mediocre

average, ordinary, undistinguished

underlying

basic; fundamental; only noticeable under scrutiny

budding

beginning to develop or become successful a [...] artist/writer

pamphlet

booklet

placid

calm

tranquillity

calmness; peace

discreet

careful

lax

careless or negligent

conscientious

characterized by extreme care and great effort

jovial

cheerful and friendly

intrusive

coming without invitation or welcome

endemic

confined to a particular country or area

baffle

confuse

Disparate

different in every way: The two cultures were so utterly [...] that she found it hard to adapt from one to the other.

unwieldy

difficult to manage The first mechanical clocks were large and rather unwieldy. The old car felt cumbersome and unwieldy.

amiable

diffusing warmth and friendliness

incredulous

disbelieving, skeptical

unravel

disentangle; solve

turbulent

disorderly, riotous, violent; stormy

discernible

distinguishable; perceivable; Ex. discernible improvement

pensive

dreamily thoughtful

drab

dull; lacking color; cheerless ; Ex. drab coat/life

readily

easily

peevish

easily irritated or annoyed

omnivorous

eating every kind of food

rudimentary

elementary

ample

enough or more than enough; plentiful.

zealous

enthusiastic

ovation

enthusiastic applause

conservationist

environmentalist

innate

existing from birth, inborn

forceful

expressing opinions firmly and clearly in a way that persuades other people to believe them

arid

extremely dry

mortified

extremely embarrassed

formidable

extremely impressive in strength or excellence

traumatic

extremely upsetting

immensely

extremely, enormously He was [...] popular in his day.

limber

flexible

afloat

floating on water Somehow we kept the boat [...]

prophetic

foretelling events as if by supernatural intervention

consensus

general agreement

sanctimonious

giving the impression that you feel you are better and more moral than other people

covert

hidden; undercover

zenith

highest point

integrity

honesty, decency

philanthropic

humanitarian; benevolent; relating to monetary generosity

hasten

hurry; accelerate; rush

aggravate

if you sunburn itches, don't scratch; that will [...] it.

discreetly

in a careful and prudent manner, especially in order to keep something confidential or to avoid embarrassment.

advertently

in a careful deliberate manner

conspicuously

in a clearly visible way.

aptly

in a manner that is appropriate or suitable in the circumstances. "America's aptly named Sunshine State"

haphazardly

in a random manner

dormant

inactive

confrontational

inclined to start fights

deceptive

intending to mislead or trick

wrath

intense anger

erratic

irregular

seclusion

isolation from others, solitude

terrestrial

living on the land or on the ground, rather than in water, in trees or in the air Because of the cool climate, many [...] insects live in the soil.

frenzied

madly excited

enact

make (a bill or other proposal) law.

agitate

make (someone) troubled or nervous

virile

masculine; manly

submissive

meek voluntarily obeying another; humble

sporadic

occurring irregularly

euphemistic

of an inoffensive substitute for offensive terminology

decrees

official decisions or laws, an official order issued by a legal authority

dastardly

old fashioned: evil and wicked

miser

one who saves greedily

susceptible

open to; easily influenced; lacking in resistance

overtly

openly adv. in a way clearly seen; not done secretly

niche

organism's role, or job, in its habitat

paralyze

paralyse somebody to make somebody unable to feel or move all or part of their body The accident left him [...] paralysed from the waist down.

serenity

peacefulness

gratifying

pleasing

omnipresent

present in all places at all times

presumably

probably; reasonably supposed

prolific

producing a lof of things producing many works, etc. a [...] author a [...] goalscorer [...] rivers

massacre

the killing of a large number of people especially in a cruel way the bloody [...] of innocent civilians Nobody survived the massacre.

verisimilitude

questions about the ____________ of the document the quality of being true or real

resilient

quick to recover

defy

refuse to obey

pertain

relate to; have to do with

monetary

relating to the money in a country: [...] policy [...] control The [...] unit of the UK is the pound The court prescribes monetary penalties for traffic infractions that occur within its jurisdiction

pertinent

relevant

striking

remarkable adj. drawing special attention to

antidote

remedy for a poison or evil

requisite

required; necessary

vengeance

revenge

berate

scold strongly

clandestine

secretive

menacing

seeming likely to cause you harm or danger synonym threatening a [...] face/tone

ubiquitous

seeming to be everywhere: Leather is very much in fashion this season, as is the [...] denim.

autonomous

self-governing

euphoria

sense of great happiness or well-being

judicious

sensible; showing good judgement

laterally

sideways

incredulous

skeptical

verdict

the hung jury is one that has been unable to reach a [...]

slaughter

the killing of animals for their meat cows taken for [...]

predecessor

someone or something that came before another

enterpreneur

someone who takes a risk in starting a business to earn a profit

stressor

something that causes stress (= great worry or emotional difficulty): Constant noise can be a [...].

token

something that is a symbol of a feeling, a fact, an event, etc. synonym expression, mark Please accept this small gift as a [...] of our gratitude. We hope you will accept this book as a small [...]of our appreciation.

boon

something that is very helpful and improves the quality of life: Guide dogs are a great [...] to the partially sighted.

rampant

spreading out of control

withstand

stand up against; resist

halt

stop

outlandish

strange

peculiar

strange

antipathy

strong dislike

obstinately

stubbornly

succumb

succumb to something His career was cut short when he succumbed to cancer. He finally succumbed to Lucy's charms and agreed to her request. She [...] succumbed to the temptation of another drink

dour

sullen; gloomy; stubborn

synopsis

summary

purveyor

supplier; seller

encompass

surround and have or hold within.

indiscernible

that cannot be seen, heard or understood The differences are almost [...].

acme

the ______ of perfection the best and highest level

sensuous

the ________ feeling of silk on her skin pleasing to your senses

sweltering

the _________ summer sun extremely hot

inextricable

the ____________ connection between language and culture about things that are closely related and affect each other

disguise

the act of concealing the identity of something by modifying its appearance

Insulation

the act of covering something to stop heat, sound, or electricity from escaping or entering, or the fact that something is covered in this way: The animal's thick fur provides very good insulation against the arctic cold. Glass fibre is often used as roof [...] .

assortment

the act of distributing things into classes or categories of the same type

excavation

the activity of digging in the ground to look for old buildings or objects that have been buried for a long time

upside

the advantage of a situation: It's annoying that we can't travel until Thursday, but the [...] is that tickets are cheaper then

sedition:

the author of the pamphlet advocating the overthrow of the government was arrested for [...]

Carcass

the body of a dead animal, especially a large one that is soon to be cut up as meat or eaten by wild animals: Vultures flew around in the sky waiting to pick at the rotting [...] of the deer

Dauntless:

the frightened sailors wanted to turn back, but their [...] leader urged them to sail on.

dissent

to disagree

centerpiece

the most important item This treaty is the [...] of the government's foreign policy. The water lily is obviously the [...] of any water garden.

Affluent

the new wing to the hospital was made possible by a gift of $500.000 from an [...] contributor.

fringe

the outer edge of an area or a group on the northern [...] of the city fringe something to form a border around something The beach was fringed by coconut palms. Her eyes were grey, fringed by long dark lashes

credentials

the qualities, training or experience that make you suitable to do something She has impeccable [...] as a researcher. He has all the credentials for the job.

warmth

the quality or state of being warm in temperature He admired the ___ of relationships he saw around him. WARM

hinterland

the rural _________ an area of land that is far from the coast, large rivers, or the places where people live

attic

the space in a house just below the roof and above the other rooms

daybreak

the time of day when light first appears synonym dawn We left before [...].

cognition

the use of conscious mental processes: Young children develop their skills of [...] from their childhood experiences and social interactions

circumspect

thinking very carefully about something before doing it, because there may be risks involved synonym cautious

baker's dozen

thirteen of something

supposedly

thought to be true, or supposed to be true

sculpture

three dimensional work of art, statue

cleave

to adhere firmly and closely or loyally and unwaveringly

concur

to agree

assail

to attack with words or force

oblivious

totally unaware

impartial

treating all rivals or disputants equally; fair and just.

Inexplicable

unable to be explained or understood: For some [...] reason, he's decided to cancel the project.

precarious

uncertain

wanton

undisciplined; unrestrained; reckless

unwarranted

unjustified

inordinate

unusually or disproportionately large; excessive.

unveil

unveil something to show or introduce a new plan, product, etc. to the public for the first time synonym reveal They will be [...]ing their new models at the Motor Show.

unwarranted

unwarranted

typify

v. To serve as a characteristic example of.

commodity

valuable product

prodigious

very large or powerful and causing surprise or admiration synonym colossal, enormous

minuscule

very small

precious

very valuable

triumph

victory

vouch

vouch for something (formal) to say that you believe that something is true or good because you have evidence for it synonym confirm I was in bed with the flu. My wife can [...] for that.

inquisitive

wanting to discover as much as you can about things, sometimes in a way that annoys people:

frail

weak

debilitating

weakening

prosperous

wealthy

prevalent

widespread

prudent

wise, careful, cautious

inadvertently

without intention; accidentally.

apprentice

works for an expert to learn a trade

compliant

yielding; submissive