Definitions and samples brink (n.) the extreme edge of land before a steep slope or a body of water – Extreme stress had driven him to the brink of a nervous breakdown. chronology (n.) the study of records to establish the dates of past events – the novel abandons the conventions of normal chronology. conscientious…
determine (v.) to find out; to influence – After reading the contract, I was still unable to determine if our company was liable for back wages. engage (v.) participate; involve – Before engaging in a new business, it is important to do thorough research. establish (v.) to institute permanently; to bring about – The merger…
Definitions and samples obvious (adj.) easily seen or understood; clear to the eye or mind; not be doubted; plain – It was obvious that the lumberjack was tired after his day’s work. rage (n.) violent anger; something that arouses intense but brief enthusiasm – In a fit rage, Francine broker the valuable glass. fee (n.)…
Definitions and samples acquisition (n.) the act of taking possession of something – Our recent acquisition of over 2,000 books makes ours the biggest library in the region. consciously (adv.) with awareness of one’s actions – He may have hurt her feelings, but he never would have done so consciously. vein (n.) any of the…
Definitions and samples spice (n.) a substance made from a plant, which is used to give a special flavor to food – Spices are widely used in South Asian cooking. fitness (n.) when you are healthy and strong enough to do hard work or play sports – Running marathons requires a high level of physical…
Definitions and samples timid (adj.) not having courage or confidence – I was a timid child. seldom (adv.) very rarely or almost never – Karen had seldom seen him so angry. resign (v.) if you resign from a job or position, you formally announce that you are leaving it – Mr Robb resigned his position…
Definitions and samples avid (adj.) extremely eager or interested – He is an avid reader of anything – and everything – about sharks. paramount (adj.) being above all others in importance, power, or rank. – The flight crew’s paramount concern is passenger safety. rude (adj.) not polite; offensive or embarrassing – It’s very rude not…
sage (n. & adj.) a very wise person who may share his or her wisdom with others – They asked the sage for thoughts on how to handle the problem. vast (adj.) huge in area or amount, or seemingly endless – The sailor looked out over the vast ocean, wondering if he’d see land again….
Definitions and samples cease (v.) to put an end to or to stop – right now! – “cease that drumming, Steve? or you’ll wake the baby,” Dad warned. procrastinate (v.) to delay or put off doing something you know you should do simply because you don’t want to do it. – If you procrastinate any…
Definitions and samples postpone (v.) put off to a later time; delay – The young couple wanted to postpone their wedding until they were sure they could handle the burdens of marriage. gloomy (adj.) dark; dim; in low spirits – My cousin was gloomy because his best friend had moved away. mediocre (adj.) neither good…