English Vocabulary

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VOCABULARY
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ENGLISH
VOCABULARY
~ Contents ~
1 Exam Oriented Day to Day Vocabulary 1

2 Comprehensive List of Day to Day Vocabulary 56
3 Synonyms Exercise 140
4 Antonym Exercise 150
5 Exam Oriented Day to Day Idioms and Phrases 160
6 Comprehensive List of Day to Day Idioms & Phrases 174
7 Idioms and Phrases Exercise 281
8 Phrasal Verb 287
9 Misspelt 298
10 Misspelt Exercise 304
11 One Word Substitution 310
12 Exam Oriented List of One Word Substitution 345
13 Diminutives 358
14 Homonyms 361
15 Portmanteau 375
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ENGLISH
VOCABULARY
ENGLISH VOCABULARY
1
Exam Oriented Day to Day

01
Exam oriented day to day Vocabulary
Vocabulary
1. Firmly (Adverb) Synonyms: unpredicted, unexpected,

Definition: in a way that uses steady power or unanticipated, unplanned, accidental, unlooked
strength.. for, unsought, not bargained for
Synonyms: securely, thoroughly, fast, solid. Antonyms: expected, predictable
Antonyms: changeably, indefinitely, moveable, Usage: our insurance package enables you to
flexibly. protect yourself and your dependents against
Usage: I had her wrist grasped firmly in my unforeseen circumstances
hand
6. Fancied (Verb)
2. Depreciation (Noun) Definition: regard (a horse, team, or player) as a
Definition: a reduction in the value of an asset likely winner..
over time, due in particular to wear and tear. Synonyms: wish for, want, desire
Synonyms: devaluation, devaluing, decrease in Antonyms: disregard, measure, neglect.
value, lowering in value, reduction in value, Usage: I fancy him to win the tournament
cheapening
Antonyms: rise, increase, develop. 7. Shepherd (Verb)
Usage: provision should be made for Definition: guide or direct in a particular
depreciation of fixed assets direction..
Synonyms: guide, conduct, usher, convoy,
3. Unequivocal (Adjective) marshal, steer, herd, lead, take
Definition: leaving no doubt; unambiguous. Antonyms: divert, misguide.
Synonyms: unambiguous, unmistakable, Usage: I shepherded them through the door
indisputable, incontrovertible, indubitable,
undeniable 8. Akin (Adjective)
Antonyms: equivocal, ambiguous, vague Definition: of similar character.
Usage: an unequivocal answer Synonyms: similar, related, close, near,
corresponding, comparable, parallel, equivalent
4. Persists (Verb) Antonyms: unlike.
Definition: continue in an opinion or course of Usage: something akin to gratitude
action in spite of difficulty or opposition. overwhelmed her
Synonyms: persevere, continue, carry on, go on,
keep at it, keep on, keep going, keep it up, not 9. Soothing (Verb)
give up Definition: having a gently calming effect.
Antonyms: abandon, stop Synonyms: calm, calm down, quiet, pacify,
Usage: the minority of drivers who persist in subdue, settle, settle down, comfort, hush, lull,
drinking tranquillize
Antonyms: agitate, disturb
5. Unforeseen (Adjective) Usage: she put on some soothing music
Definition: not anticipated or predicted.
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ENGLISH GRAMMAR & VOCABULARY
2
10. Noxious (Adjective) take over from, substitute for, displace, oust,
'D
Definition: harmful, poisonous, or very overthrow
unpleasant. Antonyms: keep, stay, accept.
Synonyms: poisonous, toxic, deadly, virulent Usage: the older models of car have now been
Antonyms: innocuous, safe, superseded
Usage: they were overcome by the noxious
fumes 16. Explicitly (Adverb)
Definition: in a clear and detailed manner,
11. Procuring (Verb) leaving no room for confusion or doubt.
Definition: obtain (something), especially with Synonyms: specially, decidedly, surprisingly.
care or effort Antonyms: normally, usually, commonly.
Synonyms: obtain, acquire, get, find, come by, Usage: the essay should state explicitly how the
secure facts support the thesis
Antonyms: fail, hurt
Usage: food procured for the rebels 17. Turbulence (Noun)
Definition: violent or unsteady movement of air
12. Skeptical (Adjective) or water, or of some other fluid.
Definition: not easily convinced; having Synonyms: rough air currents, irregular
doubts or reservations. atmospheric motion, uneven air movement
Synonyms: dubious, doubtful, having Antonyms: breeze.
reservations, taking something with a pinch of Usage: the plane shuddered as it entered some
salt, doubting turbulence
Antonyms: certain, convinced, optimistic
Usage: the public were deeply skeptical about 18. Beleaguered (Verb)
some of the proposals Definition: put in a very difficult situation.
Synonyms: hard-pressed, troubled, in difficulties,
13. Persuade (Verb) under pressure, under stress
Definition: induce (someone) to do something Antonyms: aid, please, help, make happy.
through reasoning or argument. Usage: the board is supporting the beleaguered
Synonyms: prevail on, talk someone into, coax, director
convince, make, get, press someone into
Antonyms: dissuade, discourage, deter 19. Negligent (Adjective)
Usage: it wasn't easy, but I persuaded him to do Definition: failing to take proper care over
the right thing something. Synonyms: careless, failing to take
proper care, remiss, neglectful, lax,
14. Nudged (Verb) irresponsible, inattentive
Definition: touch or push (something) gently or Antonyms: careful, attentive, conscientious
gradually. Usage: the council had been negligent in its
Synonyms: touch, bump (against), push supervision of the children in care
(against), run into
Antonyms: discourage, pull, repress 20. Averting (Verb)
Usage: the canoe nudged a bank of reeds Definition: turn away (one's eyes or thoughts).
Synonyms: turn aside, turn away, turn to one side
15. Supersede (Verb) Antonyms: aid, allow, assist.
Definition: take the place of (a person or thing Usage: she averted her eyes while we made
previously in authority or use); supplant. stilted conversation
Synonyms: replace, supplant, take the place of,
21. Scrap (Noun)
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ENGLISH VOCABULARY
3
Definition: a small piece or amount of Antonyms: dishearten, discourage

something, especially one that is left over after Usage: emboldened by the claret, he pressed his
the greater part has been used. knee against hers
Synonyms: fragment, piece, bit, offcut, oddment,
snippet, snip, tatter, wisp, shred, remnant 27. Merchandise (Noun)
Antonyms: keep, preserve Definition: goods to be bought and sold
Usage: I scribbled her address on a scrap of Synonyms: goods, wares, stock, commodities,
paper lines, produce, product, solutions
Usage: shops which offered an astonishing range
22. Tweaks(Verb) of merchandise
Definition: twist or pull (something) sharply.
Synonyms: pull sharply, twist, tug, pinch, nip, 28. Murky (Adjective)
twitch, squeeze, jerk Definition: dark and gloomy, especially due to
Antonyms: straighten, align thick mist.
Usage: he tweaked the boy's ear Synonyms: dark, gloomy, grey, leaden, dull, dim,
overcast, cloudy, clouded, sunless, foggy, misty
23. Intended (Adjective) Antonyms: bright, sunny
Definition: planned or meant. Usage: the sky was murky and a thin drizzle was
Synonyms: deliberate, intentional, calculated, falling
conscious, done on purpose, planned, considered
Antonyms: accidental, sudden, unknown. 29. Discordant (Adjective)
Usage: the intended victim escaped Definition: disagreeing or incongruous.
Synonyms: in disagreement, at variance, at odds,
24. Lobbies (Verb) disagreeing, differing, divergent, discrepant,
Definition: seek to influence (a legislator) on an contradictory
issue. Synonyms: seek to influence, try to Antonyms: in agreement harmonious, compatible
persuade, bring pressure to bear on, importune, Usage: the operative principle of democracy is a
persuade, influence balance of discordant qualities
Usage: they insist on their right to lobby
Congress 30. Tainted (Verb)
Definition: affect with a bad or undesirable
25. Congenial (Adjective) quality.
Definition: (of a thing) pleasant or agreeable Synonyms: tarnish, sully, blacken, stain,
because suited to one's taste or inclination. besmirch, smear, blot, blemish, stigmatize, mar,
Synonyms: pleasant, pleasing, to one's liking, corrupt, defile, soil
agreeable, enjoyable, pleasurable, nice, Antonyms: clean, pure.
appealing, engaging Usage: his administration was tainted by scandal
Antonyms: disagreeable, incompatible
Usage: he went back to a climate more congenial 31. Mantle (Noun)
to his cold stony soul Definition: an important role or responsibility that
passes from one person to another.
26. Emboldened (Verb) Synonyms: role, burden, onus, duty,
Definition: give (someone) the courage or responsibility, function, position, capacity, task
confidence to do something. Antonyms: entertainment, fun, pastime.
Synonyms: give courage, make brave/braver, Usage: the second son has now assumed his
encourage, hearten, strengthen, fortify father's mantle
32. Beset (Verb) Definition: (of a problem or difficulty) trouble

(someone or something) persistently.

4
Synonyms: plague, bedevil, attack, assail, oneself, fling oneself, launch oneself, catapult
beleaguer, afflict, torment, torture, rack, oneself Antonyms: ascend, rise, increase.
oppress, trouble Usage: our little daughters whooped as they
Antonyms: clarify, please, exclude. plunged into the sea
Usage: the social problems that beset the UK
38. Impeached (Verb)
33. Owes (Verb) Definition: call into question the integrity or
Definition: have an obligation to pay or repay validity of (a practice).
(something, especially money) in return for Synonyms: challenge, question, call into
something received. question, cast doubt on, raise doubts about
Synonyms: be in debt (to), be indebted (to), be in Antonyms: confirm.
arrears (to), be under an obligation (to), be Usage: there is no desire to impeach the
obligated (to) privileges of the House of Commons
Antonyms: settle up
Usage: they have denied they owe money to the 39. Egregious (Adjective)
company Definition: outstandingly bad; shocking.
Synonyms: bad, worse.
34. Lingering (Adjective) Antonyms: good, perfect.
Definition: lasting for a long time or slow to end. Usage: egregious abuses of copyright
Synonyms: remaining, surviving, persisting,
abiding, nagging, niggling, gnawing, lasting 40. Sober(Adjective)
Antonyms: short-lived Definition: serious, sensible, and solemn.
Usage: there are still some lingering doubts in my Synonyms: serious, sensible, solemn, thoughtful,
mind grave, somber, severe, earnest, sedate, staid,
dignified Antonyms: light-hearted, frivolous,
35. Patronage (Noun) sensational, emotional
Definition: the power to control appointments to Usage: a sober view of life
office or the right to privileges..
Synonyms: power of appointment, right of 41. Elusive (Adjective)
appointment, favoritism, nepotism, partisanship, Definition: difficult to find, catch, or achieve..
partiality Synonyms: difficult to catch/find, difficult to
Antonyms: attack, harm, obstruction. track down
Usage: recruits are selected on merit, not through Antonyms: definite, stable, confronting.
political patronage Usage: success will become ever more elusive
36. Bureaucratic (Adjective) 42. Filth (Noun)

Definition: relating to a system of government in Definition: obscene and offensive language or
which most of the important decisions are taken printed material..
by state officials rather than by elected Synonyms: pornography, pornographic
representatives.. Synonyms: administrative, literature/films/videos, dirty books, smut, vice
official, procedural, red-tape, governmental, Antonyms: assets, purification, cleanliness.
ministerial, state, civic, constitutional Usage: some calls were vitriolic, accusing us of
Antonyms: simple, relaxed publishing pornography and filth
Usage: well-established bureaucratic procedures
43. Unsparing (Adjective)
37. Plunged (Verb) Definition: Given freely and generously.
Definition: jump or dive quickly and energetically.. Synonyms: Merciless; Severe
Synonyms: jump, dive, hurl oneself, throw Antonyms: Grudging, Mean

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
5
Usage: she had won her mother's unsparing 49. Tranquility (Noun)
approval. Definition: the quality or state of being tranquil;
He is unsparing in his criticism of the arms trade calm..
Synonyms: peace, peacefulness, restfulness,
44. Hasting (Noun) repose, reposefulness, calm, calmness, quiet,
Definition: A meeting at which candidates in an quietness
election address potential voters. Antonyms: commotion, busyness, excitability
Synonyms: Electioneering, Candidature, Political Usage: passing cars are the only noise that
campaign, Campaigning candidacy disturbs the tranquility of rural life
Antonyms: Dissuasion
Usage: He could hold his own in an election 50. Satirical (Adjective)
hustings. Definition: sarcastic, critical, and mocking
another's weaknesses.
45. Descend (Verb) Synonyms: mocking, ironic, ironical, satiric,
Definition: Make a sudden attack on; move or fall sarcastic, sardonic, scornful, derisive, ridiculing,
downwards. taunting
Synonyms: Drop, Fall, Sink, Subside; Dive, Antonyms: calm, kind, mild, nice.
Plummet, Plunge, Nosedive, Pitch, Tumble, and Usage: his satirical sense of humor
Slump. Antonyms :Ascend, Go up
Usage: John Dalrymple was descended from an 51. Enmity (Noun)
ancient Ayrshire family. The aircraft began to Definition: a state or feeling of active opposition
descend. or hostility.
Synonyms: hostility, animosity, antagonism,
46. Incited (Verb) friction, antipathy, animus, opposition,
Definition: encourage or stir up (violent or dissension, rivalry
unlawful) Antonyms: friendship, goodwill
Synonyms: boost, encourage, kindle. Usage: decades of enmity between the two
Antonyms: suppress, dissuade, deter countries
Usage: they conspired to incite riots
52. My stifyingly (Verb)
47. Endorsement (Noun) Definition: utterly bewilder or perplex (someone).
Definition: the action of endorsing someone or Synonyms: bewilder, puzzle, perplex, baffle,
something. confuse, confound, bemuse, obfuscate, nonplus,
Synonyms: support, backing, approval, seal of throw, get
approval, agreement, acceptance, Antonyms: clarify, clear up, help, lose.
recommendation Usage: I was completely mystified by his
Antonyms: opposition disappearance
Usage: the issue of full independence received
overwhelming endorsement 53. Breach (Noun)
Definition: an act of breaking or failing to observe
48. Stringent (Adjective) a law, agreement, or code of conduct.
Definition: (of regulations, requirements, or Synonyms: contravention, violation, breaking,
conditions) strict, precise, and exacting.. non-observance, infringement, transgression,
Synonyms: strict, firm, rigid, rigorous, severe, neglect, dereliction
harsh, tough, tight, exacting, demanding, Antonyms: agreement, closure, bridge.
inflexible, stiff Usage: a breach of confidence
Antonyms: lenient, flexible
Usage: stringent guidelines on air pollution 54. Curtailing(Verb)

6
Definition: reduce in extent or quantity; impose a raise, sharpen, strengthen, augment, add to,
restriction on. concentrate
Synonyms: reduce, cut, cut down, cut back, Antonyms: lessen, abate
decrease, lessen, diminish, slim down, tighten up, Usage: the dispute began to intensify
retrench
Antonyms: increase, lengthen 60. Brink (Noun)
Usage: civil liberties were further curtailed Definition: a point at which something, typically
something unwelcome, is about to happen; the
55. Overwhelmingly (Adverb) verge.
Definition: to a very great degree or with a great Synonyms: verge, edge, threshold, point, dawn
majority. Antonyms: middle, centre.
Synonyms: very large, profuse, enormous, Usage: the country was on the brink of a
immense, inordinate, massive, huge, formidable, constitutional crisis
stupendous
Antonyms: small, little, few. 61. Tenet (Noun)
Usage: the country voted overwhelmingly for Definition: a principle or belief, especially one of
independence the main principles of a religion or philosophy.
Synonyms: principle, belief, doctrine, precept,
56. Perception (Noun) creed, credo, article of faith, dogma
Definition: the way in which something is Antonyms: doubt, disbelief, unbelief.
regarded, understood, or interpreted. Usage: the tenets of classical liberalism
Synonyms: approach, impression, flash, thought.
Antonyms: concrete, ignorance, stupidity. 62. Epoch (Noun)
Usage: Hollywood's perception of the tastes of Definition: the beginning of a period in the history
the American public of someone or something..
Synonyms: era, age, period, time, aeon, span
57. Rally(Verb) Usage: these events marked an epoch in their
Definition: recover or cause to recover in health, history
spirits, or poise.
Synonyms: recover, improve, get better, pick up, 63. Herald (Noun)
revive, come back, make a comeback, rebound, Definition: a person or thing viewed as a sign that
bounce back something is about to happen.
Antonyms: disperse, slump. Synonyms: harbinger, sign, indicator, indication,
Usage: he floundered for a moment, then rallied signal, prelude, portent, omen, augury,
again forewarning
Usage: they considered the first primroses as the
58. Contentious (Adjective) herald of spring
Definition: causing or likely to cause an
argument; controversial. 64. Ethnic (Adjective)
Synonyms: controversial, disputable, debatable, Definition: relating to a population subgroup
disputed, contended, open to question/debate, (within a larger or dominant national or cultural
moot group) with a common national or cultural
Antonyms: agreeable. tradition..
Usage: a contentious issue Synonyms: racial, race-related, ethnological,
genetic,
59. Intensified (Verb) Antonyms: recent.
Definition: become or make more intense.. Usage: ethnic and cultural rights and traditions
Synonyms: escalate, step up, boost, increase,
65. Exodus (Noun)

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
7
Definition: a mass departure of people. Antonyms: discourage, prevention, block.

Synonyms: mass departure, withdrawal, Usage: give farmers an incentive to improve their
evacuation, leaving land
Antonyms: coming, advent, appearance,
entrance, entry, materialization, approach 71. Consensus (Noun)
Usage: the annual exodus of sun-seeking Definition: a general agreement.
Canadians to Florida Synonyms: agreement, harmony, concord, like-
mindedness, concurrence, common consent
66. Disquiet (Verb) Antonyms: disagreement, minority view
Definition: make (someone) worried or uneasy. Usage: there is a growing consensus that the
Synonyms: perturb, agitate, upset, disturb, current regime has failed
unnerve, unsettle, discompose, disconcert, ruffle,
startle 72. Hauled (Verb)
Antonyms: calm, happiness. Definition: (of a person) pull or drag with effort or
Usage: she felt disquieted at the lack of interest force.
the girl had shown Synonyms: drag, pull, tug, heave, hump, trail,
draw, tow, manhandle
67. Resentment (Noun) Antonyms: push.
Definition: bitter indignation at having been Usage: he hauled his bike out of the shed
treated unfairly.
Synonyms: bitterness, indignation, irritation, 73. Colonial (Noun)
pique, displeasure, dissatisfaction, Definition: a native or inhabitant of a colony.
disgruntlement, discontentment Synonyms: group, joint, together.
Antonyms: contentment, happiness Antonyms: separate, disjoint
Usage: his resentment at being demoted Usage: a rebellion by Dutch-speaking colonials
68. Prognosis(Noun) 74. Overawe (Verb)

Definition: a forecast of the likely outcome of a Definition: impress (someone) so much that they
situation. are silent or inhibited.
Synonyms: forecast, prediction, projection, Synonyms: intimidate, daunt, cow, take
prognostication, prophecy someone's breath away, awe, disconcert, blind
Antonyms: calculation, measurement. someone with something
Usage: gloomy prognoses about overpopulation Antonyms: discourage, fail.
Usage: the eleven-year-old was overawed by the
69. Severity (Noun) atmosphere
Definition: the fact or condition of being severe.
Synonyms: acuteness, seriousness, gravity, 75. Absurdity (Noun)
graveness, severances, grievousness Definition: the quality or state of being ridiculous
Antonyms: mildness, leniency, geniality, or wildly unreasonable.
elaboration Synonyms: preposterousness, ridiculousness,
Usage: sentences should reflect the severity of ludicrousness, absurdness, farcicality
the crime Antonyms: reasonableness, sense
Usage: Duncan laughed at the absurdity of the
70. Incentives (Noun) situation
Definition: a thing that motivates or encourages
someone to do something. 76. Ridiculous (Adjective)
Synonyms: inducement, motivation, motive, Definition: deserving or inviting derision or
reason, stimulus, stimulant, impetus, mockery; absurd..
encouragement

8
Synonyms: laughable, absurd, comical, funny, Synonyms: claim, assertion, declaration,

hilarious, humorous, risible, derisory, droll statement, proclamation, contention, argument,
Antonyms: serious, sensible, reasonable affirmation, averment
Usage: that ridiculous tartan cap Antonyms: denial, exculpation.
Usage: he made allegations of corruption against
77. Lure (Verb) the administration
Definition: tempt (a person or animal) to do
something or to go somewhere, especially by 82. Propositioning (Noun)
offering some form of reward. Definition: make an offer or suggestion to.
Synonyms: tempt, entice, attract, induce, coax, Synonyms: proposal, premise, initiative
persuade, inveigle, allure, seduce, win over, cajole Antonyms: oppose, rejection.
Antonyms: deter, put off Usage: I was propositioned by the editor about
Usage: the child was lured into a car but becoming film critic of the paper
managed to escape
83. Outpourings (Noun)
78. Pedestrians (Noun) Definition: something that streams out rapidly.
Definition: a person walking rather than travelling Synonyms: outflow, outflowing, outrush, rush,
in a vehicle. flood, deluge, discharge, issue, spurt, Jet,
Synonyms: walker, person on foot, hiker, rambler, cascade, stream
stroller, wayfarer Usage: a massive outpouring of high-energy
Antonyms: driver gamma rays
Usage: the road is so dangerous pedestrians
avoid it 84. Seduces (Verb)
Definition: entice (someone) to do or believe
79. Dismal (Adjective) something inadvisable or foolhardy.
Definition: causing a mood of gloom or Synonyms: attract, allure, lure, tempt, entice,
depression. beguile, cajole, wheedle, ensnare, charm,
Synonyms: dingy, dim, dark, gloomy, somber, captivate, enchant
dreary, drab, dull, desolate, bleak, cheerless, Antonyms: passive, inactive.
comfortless Usage: they should not be seduced into thinking
Antonyms: bright, cheerful. that their success ruled out the possibility of a
Usage: the dismal weather made the late relapse
afternoon seem like evening
85. Misdemeanor (Noun)
80. Flaws (Noun) Definition: a minor wrongdoing.
Definition: a mark, blemish, or other imperfection Synonyms: wrongdoing, evil deed, crime, felony,
which mars a substance or object. criminal act
Synonyms: defect, blemish, fault, imperfection, Antonyms: obedience.
deficiency, weakness, weak spot/point, Usage: the player can expect a suspension for his
inadequacy latest misdemeanor
Antonyms: strength, gain.
Usage: a flaw in the glass 86. Perhaps (Adverb)
Definition: used to express uncertainty or
81. Allegations (Noun) possibility.
Definition: a claim or assertion that someone has Synonyms: maybe, for all I know, for all you
done something illegal or wrong, typically one know, it could be (that), it may be (that), it is
made without proof. possible
Antonyms: impossible.

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
9
Usage: perhaps I should have been frank with Usage: a constitutional violation may comprise
him the gravamen of a plaintiff's complaint
87. Internalize (Verb) 93. Vague (Adjective)

Definition: make (attitudes or behavior) part of Definition: of uncertain, indefinite, or unclear
one's nature by learning or unconscious character or meaning..
assimilation. Synonyms: indistinct, indefinite, indeterminate,
Synonyms: assign, impute, attribute. unclear
Antonyms: cheerfulness, promote. Antonyms: clear, precise, firm, sharpness
Usage: people learn gender stereotypes and Usage: many patients suffer vague symptom
internalize them
94. Innuendo (Noun)
88. Stalking (Verb) Definition: an allusive or oblique remark or hint,
Definition: stride somewhere in a proud, stiff, or typically a suggestive or disparaging one.
angry manner. Synonyms: insinuation, implication, hint,
Synonyms: angry, bitter, irate, irritable. suggestion, intimation, overtone, undertone,
Antonyms: calm, happy, peaceful.. whisper, allusion
Usage: without another word she turned and Antonyms: evidence, proof.
stalked out Usage: she's always making sly innuendoes
89. Efficacy (Noun) 95. Interning (Verb)

Definition: the ability to produce a desired or Definition: confine (someone) as a prisoner,
intended result. especially for political or military reasons.
Synonyms: adequacy, ability, power, vigor. Synonyms: imprison, incarcerate, impound, jail,
Antonyms: inadequacy, failure, week. put in jail, put behind bars, detain
Usage: there is little information on the efficacy Antonyms: release, free.
of this treatment Usage: the family were interned for the duration
of the war as enemy aliens
90. Apocalypse (Noun)
Definition: an event involving destruction or 96. Tarnish (Verb)
damage on a catastrophic scale. Definition: lose or cause to lose lustre, specially
Synonyms: damage, demolish, destroy as a result of exposure to air or moisture.
Antonyms: encourage, build up. Synonyms: become discolored, discolor, stain,
Usage: the apocalypse of World War II rust, oxidize, corrode, deteriorate
Antonyms: brighten, polish
91. Regime (Noun) Usage: silver tarnishes too easily
Definition: a system or ordered way of doing
things. 97. Heft (Verb)
Synonyms: system, arrangement, scheme, code Definition: lift or carry (something heavy)
Antonyms: combine, alter, change. Synonyms: lift, lift up, raise, raise up, heave,
Usage: detention centers with a very tough hoist, haul, manhandle
physical regime Antonyms: put down
Usage: he lifted crates and hefted boxes
92. Gravamen (Noun)
Definition: the essence or most serious part of a 98. Repercussions (Noun)
complaint or accusation. Definition: an unintended consequence of an
Synonyms: important, predominant, essential. event or action, especially an unwelcome one.
Antonyms: unimportant, insignificant

10
Synonyms: consequence, result, effect, outcome, 104. Crunch (Noun)

by-product Definition: a crucial point or situation, typically
Antonyms: cause, root, source. one at which a decision with important
Usage: the move would have grave repercussions consequences must be made.
for the entire region Synonyms: moment of truth, critical point, crux,
crisis, decision time, zero hour
99. Neophyte (Noun) Antonyms: calm, peace, trivia.
Definition: a person who is new to a subject or Usage: when it comes to the crunch you chicken
activity. out
Synonyms: beginner, learner, novice, newcomer,
new member, new entrant, new recruit, raw 105. Disquieting (Adjective)
recruit Definition: inducing feelings of anxiety or worry.
Antonyms: experts, professional Synonyms: annoying, worrying, troubling
Usage: four-day cooking classes are offered to Antonyms: happy, calm, settling.
neophytes and experts Usage: he found Jean's gaze disquieting
100. Glaring (Adjective) 106. Incumbent (Adjective)

Definition: highly obvious or conspicuous. Definition: necessary for (someone) as a duty or
Synonyms: obvious, conspicuous, plain to see, responsibility. Synonyms: binding, obligatory,
unmistakable, obtrusive, striking, flagrant, mandatory, necessary, compulsory Antonyms:
blatant optional, past, future. Usage: the government
Antonyms: inconspicuous, minor realized that it was incumbent on them to act
Usage: there is a glaring omission in the data
107. Ousting (Verb)
101. Predecessor (Noun) Definition: drive out or expel (someone) from a
Definition: a person who held a job or office position or place.
before the current holder. Synonyms: drive out, expel, force out, throw out,
Synonyms: former/previous holder of the post, remove, remove from office/power, eject, get rid
forerunner, precursor of, depose
Antonyms: successor, beneficiary, inheritor. Antonyms: hire, place, allow, give.
Usage: the new President's foreign policy is very Usage: the reformists were ousted from power
similar to that of his predecessor
108. Incumbent (Adjective)
102. Saddle (Verb) Definition: necessary for (someone) as a duty or
Definition: burden (someone) with an onerous responsibility.
responsibility or task. Synonyms: binding, obligatory, mandatory,
Synonyms: burden, encumber, lumber, hamper, necessary, compulsory
weigh down, land, charge Antonyms: optional, past, future.
Antonyms: aid, allow, assist, comfort. Usage: the government realized that it was
Usage: he's saddled with debts of $12 million incumbent on them to act
103. Shaky (Adjective) 109. Ousting (Verb)

Definition: unstable because of poor construction Definition: drive out or expel (someone) from a
or heavy use. position or place.
Synonyms: unsteady, unstable, wobbly, Synonyms: drive out, expel, force out, throw out,
precarious, rocky, rickety, flimsy, frail remove, remove from office/power, eject, get rid
Antonyms: steady, stable, constant, regular. of, depose
Usage: a cracked, dangerously shaky table Antonyms: hire, place, allow, give.
Usage: the reformists were ousted from power

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
11
110. Premises (Noun) Synonyms: precipitous, sheer, abrupt, sharp,

Definition: a house or building, together with its perpendicular, vertical, bluff
land and outbuildings, occupied by a business or Antonyms: gentle, reasonable.
considered in an official context. Usage: she pushed the bike up the steep hill
Synonyms: building(s), property, site,
establishment, office, place 116. Consulate (Noun)
Antonyms: vacant, unoccupied. Definition: the building in which a consul's duties
Usage: the company has moved to q are carried out.
new premises Synonyms: official, order.
Antonyms: unofficial.
111. Disquieting (Adjective) Usage: he called at the consulate in Palestine to
Definition: inducing feelings of anxiety or worry. pick up a visa
Synonyms: annoying, worrying, troubling
Antonyms: happy, calm, settling. 117. Letting (Verb)
Usage: he found Jean's gaze disquieting Definition: Not prevent or forbid; allow.
Synonyms: allow, permit, give permission to, give
112. Fluctuating (Verb) leave to, authorize, sanction, grant, grant the
Definition: rise and fall irregularly in number or right to
amount. Antonyms: prevent, stop.
Synonyms: vary, differ, shift, change, alter, waver, Usage: my boss let me leave early
swing, oscillate, alternate, rise and fall, go up and
down 118. Ally (Verb)
Antonyms: sable, static, steady. Definition: combine or unite a resource or
Usage: trade with other countries tends to commodity with (another) for mutual benefit.
fluctuate from year to year Synonyms: combine, marry, couple, merge,
amalgamate, join, pool, fuse
113. Rival (Verb) Antonyms: break, chop, cut, hew, lop, cleave
Definition: be or seem to be equal or comparable Usage: he allied his racing experience with his
to. father's business acumen
Synonyms: compete with, vie with, match, be a
match for, equal, emulate, measure up to, come 119. Adversely (Verb)
up to Definition: in a way that prevents success or
Antonyms: partner, ally. development; harmfully or unfavorably.
Usage: the efficiency of the Bavarians rivals that Synonyms: negativity, resentful, skeptically.
of the Viennese Antonyms: positivity.
Usage: his self-confidence was adversely
114. Steering (Verb) affected for years to come
Definition: guide or control the movement of (a
vehicle, vessel, or aircraft), for example by 120. Verdict (Noun)
turning a wheel or operating a rudder. Definition: a decision on an issue of fact in a civil
Synonyms: guide, direct, maneuvers or criminal case or an inquest.
Antonyms: follow, trail. Synonyms: judgment, adjudication, decision,
Usage: he steered the boat slowly towards the finding, ruling, resolution, pronouncement
busy quay Antonyms: accusation
Usage: the jury returned a verdict of not guilty
115. Steep (Adjective)
Definition: (of a slope, flight of stairs, or angle) 121. Viable (Adjective)
rising or falling sharply; almost perpendicular. Definition: capable of working successfully;
feasible.

12
Synonyms: workable, feasible, practicable, Usage: he's prepared to take calculated risks
practical, applicable, usable, manageable, regardless of political fallout
operable, operational
Antonyms: impracticable 127. Forge (Verb)
Usage: the proposed investment was Definition: create (something) strong, enduring,
economically viable or successful.
Synonyms: build, build up, construct, form, create
122. Dismal (Adjective) Antonyms: genuine
Definition: causing a mood of gloom or Usage: the two women forged a close bond
depression.
Synonyms: dingy, dim, dark, gloomy, somber, 128. Coherent (Adjective)
dreary, drab, dull, desolate, bleak, cheerless, Definition: (of an argument, theory, or policy)
comfortless logical and consistent.
Antonyms: bright, cheerful Synonyms: logical, reasoned, reasonable, well
Usage: the dismal weather made the late reasoned, rational
afternoon seem like evening Antonyms: incoherent, muddled
Usage: they failed to develop a coherent
123. Fray (Verb) economic strategy
Definition: (of a fabric, rope, or cord) unravel or
become worn at the edge, typically through 129. Coalition (Noun)
constant rubbing. Definition: a temporary alliance for combined
Synonyms: unravel, wear, wear thin, wear out, action, especially of political parties forming a
wear away, wear through, become worn government.
Antonyms: peace, agreement, quiet. Synonyms: alliance, union, partnership,
Usage: cheap fabric soon frays affiliation, bloc, caucus
Antonyms: detachment, disunion, divorce.
124. Alienation (Noun) Usage: a coalition between Liberals and
Definition: the state or experience of being Conservatives
alienated.
Synonyms: isolation, detachment, estrangement, 130. Nemesis (Noun)
distance, separation, severance, parting, division Definition: a long-standing rival; an arch-enemy.
Antonyms: combine, joint, unite. Synonyms: arch-enemy, arch-rival, enemy, rival,
Usage: a sense of alienation from our foe, adversary, opponent, antagonist, combatant,
environment challenger
Antonyms: advantage, associate, happiness.
125. Exacerbated (Verb) Usage: will Harry Potter finally defeat his
Definition: make (a problem, bad situation, or nemesis,
negative feeling) worse.
Synonyms: aggravate, make worse, worsen, 131. Reconciliation (Noun)
inflame, compound Definition: the restoration of friendly relations.
Antonyms: calm, reduce Synonyms: reuniting, reunion, bringing (back)
Usage: the exorbitant cost of land in urban areas together (again), conciliation, reconcilement
only exacerbated the problem Antonyms: estrangement, alienation, feud,
incompatibility
126. Fallout (Noun) Usage: his reconciliation with your uncle
Definition: the adverse results of a situation or
action. 132. Bonhomie (Noun)
Synonyms: outgrowth, result, spinoff. Definition: cheerful friendliness; geniality.
Antonyms: cause, origin

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
13
Synonyms: geniality, congeniality, conviviality, 138. Legitimate (Adjective)

cordiality, affability, amiability Definition: conforming to the law or to rules.
Antonyms: coldness Synonyms: legal, lawful, licit, legalized,
Usage: he exuded good humor and bonhomie authorized, permitted, permissible, Allowable,
allowed, admissible
133. Impetus (Noun) Antonyms: illegal, illegitimate
Definition: something that makes a process or Usage: his claims to legitimate authority
activity happen or happen more quickly.
Synonyms: motivation, stimulus, incitement, 139. Synergy (Noun)
incentive, inducement, inspiration, Definition: the interaction or cooperation of two
encouragement, boost or more organizations, substances, or other
Antonyms: block, check, discourage, hindrance. agents to produce a combined effect greater than
Usage: the ending of the Cold War gave new the sum of their separate effects. Synonyms:
impetus to idealism team work, harmony, union, team effort.
Antonyms: discord, divorce, separation.
134. Ghastly (Adjective) Usage: the synergy between artist and record
Definition: causing great horror or fear. company
Synonyms: terrible, frightful, horrible, grim, awful,
dire 140. Dissident (Noun)
Antonyms: pleasant, trivial, excusable Definition: a person who opposes official policy,
Usage: one of the most ghastly crimes ever especially that of an authoritarian state.
committed Synonyms: dissenter, objector, protester,
disputant
135. Carnage (Noun) Antonyms: conformist.
Definition: the killing of a large number of people. Usage: a dissident who had been jailed by a
Synonyms: slaughter, massacre, mass murder, military regime
mass destruction, butchery, bloodbath,
indiscriminate bloodshed 141. Rogue (Noun)
Antonyms: peace, calm. Definition: a dishonest or unprincipled man.
Usage: the bombing was timed to cause as much Synonyms: scoundrel, villain, reprobate, rascal,
carnage as possible good-for-nothing, wretch
Antonyms: honest, straight.
136. Frantic (Adjective) Usage: you are a rogue and an embezzler
Definition: distraught with fear, anxiety, or other
emotion. 142. Amassed (Verb)
Synonyms: panic-stricken, panic-struck, panicky, Definition: gather together or accumulate (a large
beside oneself, at one's wits' end, berserk, amount or number of material or things) over a
distraught period of time.
Antonyms: calm, peace. Synonyms: gather, collect, assemble
Usage: she was frantic with worry Antonyms: dissipate
Usage: he amassed a fortune estimated at close
137. Proximity (Noun) to a million pounds
Definition: nearness in space, time, or
relationship. 143. Untenable (Adjective)
Synonyms: closeness, nearness, presence, Definition: (especially of a position or view) not
juxtaposition, propinquity able to be maintained or defended against attack
Antonyms: distance, remote, fair. or objection.
Usage: do not operate microphones in close
proximity to television

14
Synonyms: indefensible, undependable, Antonyms: Warrant, Demonstrate, Establish,

unarguable, insupportable, refutable, Prove,,
unsustainable, unjustified Usage: The end of the cold war seemed to augur
Antonyms: tenable, defensible well
Usage: this argument is clearly untenable
149. Regressive (adjective)
144. Tortured (Verb) Definition: Returning to a former or less
Definition: cause great mental suffering to. developed state; characterized by regression.
Synonyms: torment, afflict, harrow, plague, Synonyms: Unmodernised, Backward,
distress, agonize, cause agony to, cause Unmodernized, Retrogressive.
suffering to, inflict anguish on Antonyms: Liberal, Progressive and Radical
Antonyms: relieve, comfort Usage: Regressive aspects of recent local
Usage: he was tortured by grief government reform
145. Unsavory (adjective) 150. Stature (Noun)

Definition: Disagreeable to taste, smell, or look Definition: Importance or reputation gained by
at. ability or achievement.
Synonyms: Disreputable, Unpleasant, Synonyms: Reputation, Celebrity, Renown and
Disagreeable Acclaim
Antonyms: Agreeable, Appetizing, Delicious and Antonyms: Impotence, Inability and Inadequacy
Delightful Usage: An architect of international stature
Usage: They looked at the scanty, unsavoury
portions of food doled out to them 151. Corroborate (Verb)
Definition: Confirm or give support to (a
146. Disillusioned (Adjective) statement, theory, or finding).
Definition: Disappointed in someone or Synonyms: Confirm, Verify, Endorse, Ratify,
something that one discovers to be less good Authenticate and Validate
than one had believed. Antonyms: Contradict
Synonyms: Disenchanted, Disappointed, Usage: The witness had corroborated the boy's
Downcast and Discouraged account of the attack
Antonyms: Trusting, Enthusiastic
Usage: The minority groups were completely 152. Fabricate (verb)
disillusioned with the party Definition: Invent (something) in order to deceive.
Synonyms: Falsify, Fake, Counterfeit, Make Up
147. Credibility (Noun) and Invent
Definition: The quality of being trusted and Antonyms: Destroy, Dismantle
believed in. Usage: You will have to fabricate an exhaust
Synonyms: Trustworthiness, Reliability, system
Dependability, Integrity, Character
Antonyms: Implausibility 153. Implicate (Verb)
Usage: The book's anecdotes have scant regard Definition: show (someone) to be involved in a
for credibility crime.
Synonyms: Incriminate, Compromise
148. Augur (Verb) Antonyms: Absolve
Definition: (of an event or circumstance) portend Usage: He implicated his government in the
a good or bad outcome. murders of three judges Viruses are known to be
Synonyms: Fortune teller, Crystal gazer, implicated in the development of certain cancers
Clairvoyant, Psychic, Visionary,
154. Feud (Noun)

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
15
Definition: A prolonged and bitter quarrel or Definition: Spoil or impair the quality or efficiency
dispute of.
Synonyms: Quarrel, Fight, Argue, Bicker, Synonyms: Abase, Bastardize, Canker
Squabble, Antonyms: Dignify, Exalt and Honor
Antonyms: Accord, Agreement, Calm and Usage: Development programmer have been
Concord vitiated by the rise in population
Usage: His long-standing feud with Universal
Pictures 161. Sordid (Adjective)
Definition: Involving immoral or dis honorable
155. Abrupt(Adjective) actions and motives; arousing moral distaste and
Definition: Sudden and unexpected. contempt.
Synonyms: Sudden, Immediate and Synonyms: Sleazy, Seedy, Seamy
Instantaneous, Antonyms: High-Minded and Respectable
Antonyms: Gradual, Unhurried Usage: The overcrowded housing conditions
Usage: I was surprised by the abrupt change of were sordid and degrading
subject
162. Ignominious (Adjective)
156. Rebuff (Verb) Definition: Deserving or causing public disgrace
Definition: Reject (someone or something) in an or shame.
abrupt or ungracious manner. Synonyms: Humiliating, Undignified,
Synonyms: Reject, Turn Down, Spurn, Refuse, Embarrassing, Mortifying
Antonyms: Praise, Approval, Compliment Antonyms: Glorious, Admirable
Usage: I asked her to be my wife, and was
rebuffed in no uncertain terms 163. Upheaval (Noun)
Definition: A violent or sudden change or
157. Embolden (Verb) disruption to something.
Definition: Give (someone) the courage or Synonyms: Turmoil, Pandemonium, Bedlam and
confidence to do something. Furore,
Synonyms: Encourage, Hearten, Strengthen Antonyms: Stability, Tranquility
Antonyms: Dishearten, Discourage Usage: The upheaval caused by wartime
Usage: Emboldened by the claret, he pressed his evacuation
knee against her
164. Egalitarian (Adjective)
158. Purport (Verb) Definition: Believing in or based on the principle
Definition: To have the often specious that all people are equal and deserve equal rights
appearance of being, intending, or claiming and opportunities.
Synonyms: profess, pretend Synonyms: Moralist, Equalitarian
Antonyms: Content, Denotation, Drift Antonyms: Elitist, Tyrannical and Authoritarian
Usage: a book that purports to be an objective Usage: All aspects of the business of sanitation
analysis need reform if India is to meet Goal Number 6 of
the Sustainable Development Goals with
159. Persecution (Noun) egalitarian policies.
Definition: Hostility and Ill-treatment
Synonyms: Oppression, Victimization, 165. Fiscal (Adjective)
Maltreatment Definition: Relating to or resembling faces
Antonyms: Happiness, joy, help Synonyms: Ordure, Dung, Manure, Scat
Usage: Her family fled religious persecution Antonyms: fresh, Pleasant, Uncorrupt
Usage: The recent data from Uttar Pradesh show
160. Vitiate (Verb) that in spite of working in mission mode to

16
expand sanitation, 87% of fiscal sludge expelled Definition: Different to what is normal or
from toilets in urban areas is untreated. expected; strange.
Synonyms: Strange, Unusual, Odd,
166. Render (Verb) Antonyms: Normal, Ordinary
Definition: Provide or give (a service, help, etc.). Usage: He gave her some very peculiar looks
Synonyms: Give, Provide, Supply
Antonyms: Keep, Take, Withhold and Conceal 173. Loom (Verb)
Usage: Money serves as a reward for services Definition: Appear as a vague form, especially
rendered one that is large or threatening.
Synonyms: Be Imminent, Be on the Horizon,
167. Erosion (Noun) Impend,
Definition: The gradual destruction or diminution Antonyms: Abate, Decline, De-Escalate, Die
of something. Down,
Synonyms: Abrasion, Scraping Away, Grinding Usage: Vehicles loomed out of the darkness"
down
Antonyms: Construction and Strengthening 174. Tenterhook (Noun)
Usage: The erosion of support for the party Definition: In a state of uneasiness, strain, or
suspense
168. Untenable (Adjective) Synonyms: Anxious, Awkward, Discomfited.
Definition: (especially of a position or view) not Antonyms: Alleviate, Comfort, Disallow and
able to be maintained or defended against attack Discontinue
or objection. Usage: The waiting kept us on tenterhooks
Synonyms: Indefensible, Unarguable
Antonyms: Tenable, Defensible 175. Tranche (Noun)
Usage: This argument is clearly untenable Definition: A portion of something, especially
money.
169. Grave (Noun) Synonyms: Share, Portion, Part and Percentage
Definition: Used as an allusive term for death. Antonyms: Misfortune, Good Luck, Success
Synonyms: Burying place, Tomb, Sepulcher, Vault Usage: They released the first tranche of the loan
Antonyms: Trivial, Carefree and Cheerful Usage:
The coffin was lowered into the grave 176. Insurmountable (Adjective)
Definition: Too great to be overcome
170. Defection (Noun) Synonyms: Insuperable, Unconquerable and
Definition: The desertion of one's country or Invincible
cause in favor of an opposing one. Antonyms: Surmountable, Attainable
Synonyms: Desertion, Absconding, Decamping, Usage: An insurmountable problem
Fling
Antonyms: Harmony, Faithfulness 177. Pendency (Noun)
Usage: His defection from the Labor Party Definition: The state of being pending
Synonyms: Imminent, Impending, Undecided and
171. Defuse (Verb) Awaiting.
Definition: Remove the fuse from (an explosive Antonyms: Avocation, Entertainment, Fun and
device) in order to prevent it from exploding. Recreation
Synonyms: Deactivate, Disarm, Disable,, Usage: The direction was given during a meeting
Antonyms: Activate of the Council of Chairmen held at the Parliament
Usage: A scheme that teaches officers how to House to avoid any pendency
defuse potentially explosive situations
178. Peril (Noun)
172. Peculiar (Adjective) Definition: Serious and immediate danger.

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
17
Synonyms: Anger, Jeopardy, Risk, 184. Clout (Noun)

Antonyms: Safety, Security Definition: Influence or power, especially in
Usage: President Sirisena’s actions have put Sri politics or business
Lankan democracy in peril Synonyms: Influence, Power, Pull, Weight, Sway,
Leverage
179. Plunge (Verb) Antonyms: Helplessness, Impotence, Impotency,
Definition: Jump or dive quickly and Powerlessness, Weakness
energetically. Usage: The best forum to test political clout in a
Synonyms: Hurl oneself, Throw oneself, Fling democracy is the legislature. 8)
oneself, Launch oneself, Catapult oneself
Antonyms: Ascent, Rise, Increase 186. Grapple
Usage: Former President has plunged the country Definition: Engage in a close fight or struggle
into a political crisis. without weapons; wrestle.
Synonyms: Wrestle, Struggle, Tussle; Brawl
180. Maneuver (Verb) Antonyms: Release, Relinquishment
Definition: Move skillfully or carefully. Usage: Still recovering from the violence and
Synonyms: Steer, Guide, Drive, Negotiate, bloodbath during its nearly three-decade-long
Navigate civil war, and grappling with the economic and
Antonyms: Cessation, Ignorance social challenges in its aftermath, Sri Lanka
Usage: His sudden and secret maneuver caught cannot afford to recede from the democratic
everyone, including senior politicians, completely space that opened up in 2015.
unawares.
187. Simmer (Verb)
181. Garner (Verb) Definition: Show or feel barely suppressed anger
Definition: Gather or collect (something, or other strong emotion
especially information or approval). Synonyms: Be furious, Be enraged, Be angry
Synonyms: Gather, Collect, Accumulate, Amass Antonyms: Get steamed up
Antonyms: Spend, Disperse, Distribute Usage: The simmering tensions over the last few
months between the Reserve Bank of India and
182. Plummet (Verb) the Centre found spectacular release over the
Definition: Decrease rapidly in value or amount weekend through a public speech by Deputy
Synonyms: Plunge, Fall Headlong, Hurtle, Governor Viral
Nosedive
Antonyms: Ascend, Go up 188. Rue (Verb)
Usage: All this has come at a time of economic Definition: Bitterly regret (something one has
fragility, with a plummeting rupee, soaring done or allowed to happen) and wish it undone.
unemployment and rising living costs. Synonyms: Regret, Be sorry about feel,
Apologetic/remorseful about
183. Blatant (Adjective) Antonyms: Impenitence, Remorselessness
Definition: done openly and unashamedly. Usage: I rue the day I agreed to this stupid plan
Synonyms: Flagrant, Glaring, Obvious,
Undisguised, 189. Frustrated (Adjective)
Antonyms: Inconspicuous, Subtle Definition: Feeling or expressing distress
Usage: Mr. Sarsen’s appointment of Mr. Synonyms: Thw wart, Defeat, Foil
Rajapaksa even before voting out Mr. Antonyms: Help, Facilitate
Wickremesinghe on the floor of Parliament is Usage: In numerous policy areas, central
nothing but blatant abuse of his executive government has been frustrated by local
powers. authorities.

18
190. Irk (Verb) 196. Clamour (Verb)

Definition: Irritate; Annoy. Definition: (of a group of people) shout loudly
Synonyms: Rub up the wrong way, Exasperate, and insistently.
Antonyms: Please Synonyms: Yell, Shout loudly, Bay, Scream
Usage: It irks her to think of the runaround she Antonyms: Silence Usage: The surging crowds
received for attention
191. Hobble (Verb) 197. Emasculate (Verb)

Definition: Walk in an awkward way, typically Definition: Deprive (a man) of his male role or
because of pain from an injury. identity.
Synonyms: Limp, Synonyms: Weaken, Make Feeble/Feebler,
Antonyms: Stride Debilitate
Usage: He was hobbling around on crutches Antonyms: Strengthen
Usage: The refusal to allow them to testify
192. Burgeon (Verb) effectively emasculated the committee 8)
Definition: Begin to grow or increase rapidly;
Flourish. 198. Punitive (Adjective)
Synonyms: Expand, Spring up, Shoot up, Definition: (of a tax or other charge) extremely
Antonym: Shrink high.
Usage: Manufacturers are keen to cash in on the Synonyms: Penal, Disciplinary, Corrective,
burgeoning demand. Correctional
Antonyms: Harsh, Severe, Stiff, Austere
193. Grouse (Verb) Usage: A current punitive interest rate of 31.3 per
Definition: Complain about something trivial; cent
grumble.
Synonyms: Grumble, Complain, Moan, Groan, 199. Exile (Noun)
Protest Definition: The state of being barred from one's
Antonyms: Accept, Bear, Countenance, Endure, native country, typically for political or punitive
Usage: our biggest grouse was about the noise of reasons.
construction work Synonyms: Banishment, Expulsion, Expatriation
Antonyms: Return
194. Turmoil (Noun) Usage: The return of political exiles
Definition: A state of great disturbance,
confusion, or uncertainty. 200. Clemency (Noun)
Synonyms: Confusion, Turbulence, Disorder, Definition: Mercy; Lenience.
Commotion Synonyms: Mercy, Mercifulness, Leniency,
Antonyms: Calm, Peace Lenience
Usage: The current row is definitely worrying Antonyms: Ruthlessness, Strictness
given the backdrop of economic turmoil, globally Usage: There is scope for judicial review even
and domestically. against a sovereign decision denying clemency.
195. Spectacular (Adjective) 201. Condign (Adjective)

Definition: Strikingly large or obvious. Definition: (of punishment or retribution)
Synonyms: Striking, Picturesque, Eye-Catching, appropriate to the crime or wrongdoing; fitting
Breathtaking and deserved.
Antonyms: Unimpressive Synonyms: Competent, Deserved, Due, Fair
Usage: the party suffered a spectacular loss in Antonyms: Incoherent, Incorrect, Irrelative,
the election Irrelevant

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
19
Usage: A suspension without pay is condign Usage: she decelerated the car as we entered the
punishment for breaking the company's code ofn school zone
business ethics.
208. Decouple (Verb)
202. Heinous (Adjective) Definition: Separate, disengage, or dissociate
Definition: (of a person or wrongful act, (something) from something else.
especially a crime) utterly odious or wicked. Synonyms: Break up, Disassociate, Disconnect,
Synonyms: Odious, Wicked, Evil, Atrocious Disjoin
Antonyms: Admirable Antonyms: Join, Link, Unify, Unite
Usage: A battery of heinous crimes. Usage: To have a fruitful discussion, we need to
decouple fact from opinion.
203. Deterrence (Noun)
Definition: The action of discouraging an 209. Contextualize (Verb)
action or event through instilling doubt or fear of Definition: Place or study in context.
the consequences. Synonyms: Doctrine, Philosophy, School of
Synonyms: Determent, Disincentive, thought
Dissuasion, Obviation Antonyms: Unbelief Imitation Pluralism
Antonyms: Permissive Internationalism
Usage: Nuclear missiles remain the main Usage: The excellent introduction summarizes
deterrence against possible aggression. and contextualizes Bowen's career.
204. Freakish (Adjective) 210. Depiction (Noun)

Definition: Very unusual, strange Definition: Portray in words; describe.
Synonyms: Capricious, Impulsive, Whimsical Synonyms: Describe, Detail, Relate, Narrate,
Antonyms: Equable Recount
Usage: Freakish weather Antonyms: Hide, Conceal, Suppress, Confuse
Usage: Ronald Reagan, who gave a rhetorical
205. Tepid (adjective) flourish to America’s pursuit of global dominance
Definition: Showing little enthusiasm. in the 1980s with his depiction of the Soviet
Synonyms: Unenthusiastic, Apathetic, Union as the “evil empire”, and his call to “break
Halfhearted, Indifferent that wall”.
Antonyms: Enthusiastic, Passionate
Usage: Across a majority of geographies and 211. Evict (Verb)
economic groupings, wage expansions were Definition: Expel (someone) from a property,
noticeably tepid last year. especially with the support of the law.
Synonyms: Expel, Eject, Oust, Remove,
206. Intensification (Noun) Dislodge
Definition: The action of making or becoming Antonyms: Admit
more intense. Usage: A single mother and her children have
Synonyms: Escalation, Stepping up, Boosting, been evicted from their home.
Increase, Pickup
Antonyms: Lessening, Abatement 212. Unravel (Verb)
Usage: The intensification of the conflict. Definition: undo (twisted, knitted, or woven
threads).
207. Deceleration (Noun) Synonyms: Untangle, Disentangle, Straighten out
Definition: Reduction in speed or rate. Antonyms: Usage: He cut the rope and started to
Synonyms: Brake, Retard, Slacken, Slow unravel
Antonyms: Accelerate, Hasten, Hurry, Quicken its strands.

20
213. Bygone (Adjective) Antonyms: Abstain, Be honest, Disbelieve

Definition: Belonging to an earlier time. Usage: The Confucian view posits a perfectible
Synonyms: Past, Former, Earlier, One-time, human nature.
Long-ago
Antonyms: Present, Recent 219. Truce (Noun)
Usage: Relics of a bygone age. Definition: An agreement between enemies or
opponents to stop fighting or arguing for a
214. Strident (Adjective) certain time.
Definition: Presenting a point of view, Synonyms: Ceasefire, Armistice Respite, Lull,
especially a controversial one, in an excessively Moratorium
forceful way. Antonyms: Fighting, Hostilities
Synonyms: Harsh, Raucous, Rough, Grating, Usage: The U.S. and Chinese Presidents,
Rasping, Jarring Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, agreed to a 90-
Antonyms: Soft, Dulcet day truce.
Usage: His voice had become increasingly
strident. 220. Amicable (Adjective)
Definition: Characterized by friendliness and
215. Mere (Adjective) absence of discord.
Definition: Used to emphasize how small or Synonyms: Friendly, Good-natured, Cordial,
insignificant someone or something is. Civil, Courteous
Synonyms: Trifling, Meagre, Bare, Trivial, Antonyms: Unfriendly, Hostile
Paltry Usage: The two countries will try to find an
Antonyms: Decorated, Indefinite, Uncertain amicable solution to the various problems
Usage: His stomach rebelled at the mere thought plaguing bilateral trade relations.
of food.
221. Plague (Verb)
216. Discernible (Adjective) Definition: Cause continual trouble or distress to.
Definition: Able to be discerned; perceptible. Synonyms: Afflict, Bedevil, Cause suffering to,
Synonyms: Visible, Detectable, Noticeable, Torture, Torment
Perceptible Antonyms: Advantage, Good fortune, Good luck
Antonyms: Imperceptible Usage: He has been plagued by ill health.
Usage: The scandal had no discernible effect
on his career. 222. Remuneration (Noun)
Definition: Money paid for work or a service.
217. Prospect (Noun) Synonyms: Payment, Pay, Salary, Wages,
Definition: The possibility or likelihood of Earnings
some future event occurring. Antonyms: Underpayment
Synonyms: Likelihood, Hope, Expectation, Usage: customers who are tardy in their
Anticipation remuneration will be subject to extra charges.
Antonyms: Incumbent, Officeholder, Awardee,
Honoree, Inductee 223. Palpable (Adjective)
Usage: Gazing at the wide prospect spread out Definition: (of a feeling or atmosphere) so
before me. intense as to seem almost tangible.
Synonyms: Perceptible, Perceivable, Visible,
218. Posit (Verb) Noticeable, Appreciable
Definition: Put forward as fact or as a basis for Antonyms: Intangible, Imperceptible
argument. Usage: A palpable sense of loss.
Synonyms: Postulate, Put forward, Advance,
Propound 224. Implode (Verb)

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
21
Definition: Collapse or cause to collapse Usage: India’s heaviest satellite GSAT -11 is aloft
violently inwards. in space from Kourou.
Synonyms: Buckle, Cave (in), Collapse, Crumple
Antonyms: Inflate, Rise, Swell 230. Meticulous (Adjective)
Usage: Both the windows had imploded. Definition: showing great attention to detail; very
careful and precise.
225. Aftermath (Noun) Synonyms: Careful, Conscientious, Diligent,
Definition: a condition or occurrence traceable Ultra-careful, Scrupulous
to a cause Antonyms: Careless, Sloppy, Slapdash
Synonyms: Aftereffect, Backwash, Usage: A meticulous civil servant, he will assess
Consequence, Corollary, Development the police findings and the recommendations of
Antonyms: Antecedent, Causation, Cause, his own team.
Occasion, Reason
Usage: The surgery was successful, but she now 231. Vicinity (Noun)
had to deal with its aftermath: a huge bill. Definition: The area near or surrounding a
particular place.
226. Semblance (Noun) Synonyms: Nearness, Closeness, Proximity,
Definition: The outward appearance or Propinquity
apparent form of something, especially when the Antonyms: Distance, Remoteness
reality is different. Usage: There are no hotels in the vicinity of the
Synonyms: Charade, Disguise, Masquerade, hospital.
Playacting
Antonyms: Bluntness, Candidness, Candor, 232. Purport (Verb)
Directness Definition: Appear to be or do something,
Usage: She tried to force her thoughts back into especially falsely.
some semblance of order. Synonyms: Claim, Lay Claim, Profess, Pretend
Antonyms: Abandon, Disavow, Disclaim, Disown,
227. Reiterate (Verb) Usage: He purports to be an expert in
Definition: To state or do over again or criminalistics
repeatedly sometimes with wearying effect
Synonyms: Chime, Din, Iterate, Rehearse, 233. Insinuation (Noun)
Repeat Definition: An unpleasant hint or suggestion of
Antonyms: Tale back something bad.
Usage: The pianist's valedictory concert will Synonyms: Implication, Inference, Suggestion,
reiterate the program he played on the national Hint
tour. Antonyms: Announce, Declare, Proclaim,
Elucidate
228. Distort (Verb) Usage: Are you insinuating that I won by
Definition: Give a misleading or false account cheating?
or impression of.
Synonyms: Misrepresent, Pervert, Twist, Falsify, 234. Stringent (Adjective)
Misreport, Misstate Definition: (of regulations, requirements, or
Antonyms: Accurate conditions) strict, precise, and exacting
Usage: Many factors can distort the results. Synonyms: Strict, Firm, Rigid, Rigorous, Severe
Antonyms: Lenient, Flexible
229. Aloft (Adjective) Usage: Stringent guidelines on air pollution
Definition: Up in or into the air; overhead.
Synonyms: Upwards, Up, High 235. Calibrate (Verb)
Antonyms: Down Definition: Mark (a gauge or instrument) with

22
a standard scale of readings. Usage: On growth, the monetary authority has

Synonyms: Measured, Registered, Serialized, largely stuck with its prognosis from October.
Tapered
Antonyms: Disorder, Disorganize, Guess, Ignore 241. Perishable (Adjective)
Usage: the radiocarbon results would need to be Definition: (Especially of food) likely to decay or
calibrated to convert them to calendar ages. go bad quickly.
Synonyms: Biodegradable
236. Contagion (Noun) Antonyms: Continuation, Endurance
Definition: The communication of disease from Usage: The RBI reckons there is the clear and
one person or organism to another by close present danger of a sudden reversal, especially in
contact. prices of volatile perishable items.
Synonyms: Contamination, Infection, Disease,
Illness, Infirmity, Pestilence 242. Buttress (Verb)
Antonyms: Purification, Advantage, Definition: Increase the strength of or
Cleanliness justification for; reinforce.
Usage: The rooms held no risk of contagion Synonyms: Strengthen, Reinforce, Fortify,
Support
237. Revelation (Noun) Antonyms: Undercut, Undermine, Weaken
Definition: A surprising and previously Usage: A mass of circumstantial evidence
unknown fact that has been disclosed to others. buttresses the prosecutor's case
Synonyms: Disclosure, Declaration, Utterance,
Announcement 243. Prudence (Noun)
Antonyms: Keeping, Covering up Definition: The quality of being prudent;
Usage: "Revelations about his personal life cautiousness.
Synonyms: Wisdom, Judgement, Good
238. Devoid (Adjective) judgement
Definition: Entirely lacking or free from. Antonyms: Folly, Recklessness
Synonyms: Lacking, Without, Free from/of, Usage: We need to exercise prudence in such
Empty of important matters.
Antonyms: Filled, Flush, Fraught, Full, Replete,
Rife 244. Funnel (Verb)
Usage: The so-called comedy is totally devoid of Definition: Guide or channel (something)
intelligence, originality, and even laughs. through or as if through a funnel.
Synonyms: Channel, Guide, Feed, Direct, Convey
239. Bolster (Verb) Antonyms: Scatter, Splurge
Definition: Support or strengthen. Usage: Some $12.8 billion was funneled
Synonyms: Strengthen, Support, Reinforce through the Marshall Plan
Antonyms: Undermine
Usage: The MPC’s decision to stand pat on 245. Acquittal (Noun)
rates must also have been bolstered by the Definition: A judgement or verdict that a person
findings in the RBI’s November survey of is not guilty of the crime with which they have
households’ inflation expectations. been charged
Synonyms: Absolution, Clearing, Exoneration
240. Prognosis (Noun) Antonyms: Conviction
Definition: A forecast of the likely outcome of a Usage: Witnesses turning hostile is a major
situation. reason for most acquittals.
Synonyms: Forecast, Prediction, Projection,
Prognostication 246. Tardy (Adjective)
Antonyms: Calculation, Measurement

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
23
Definition: Delaying or delayed beyond the right 251. Fugitive (Adjective)

or expected time; late. Definition: Quick to disappear; fleeting.
Synonyms: Crawling, Creeping, Dallying, Synonyms: Fleeting, Transient, Transitory,
Dawdling, Dilatory Ephemeral,
Antonyms: Early, Inopportune, Precocious, Antonyms: Permanent, Long-lasting
Premature Usage: Ours is a fugitive life.
Usage: The tardy judicial process seldom takes
into account the distance they have travelled or 252. Amenable (Adjective)
the time they have lost in attending court Definition: Open and responsive to suggestion;
easily persuaded or controlled.
247. Pathetic (Adjective) Synonyms: Compliant, Acquiescent, Biddable,
Definition: Arousing pity, especially through Manageable
vulnerability or sadness. Antonyms: Uncooperative
Synonyms: Pitiful, Pitiable, Moving, Touching, Usage: An easy-going, amenable child.
Poignant
Antonyms: Comical, Cheerful 253. Juncture (Noun)
Usage: As Justice A.K. Sikri points out, the Definition: A particular point in events or time.
condition of witnesses in the Indian legal system Synonyms: Point, Point in time, Time, Moment
is “pathetic”, as it takes them for granted. Antonyms: Cleft, Crack, Crevice
Usage: The plane crashed at the juncture of
248. Gratify (Verb) two mountains.
Definition: give (someone) pleasure or
satisfaction. 254. Scrutiny (Noun)
Synonyms: please, gladden, delight, make Definition: Critical observation or
someone feel good, satisfy examination.
Antonyms: displease, Synonyms: Careful examination, inspection,
Usage: It is gratifying that the court has survey
played a proactive role in getting the Centre and Antonyms: Glance, Cursory look
the States to come up with a concrete proposal. Usage: Every aspect of local government was
placed under scrutiny.
249. Competent (Adjective)
Definition: Having the necessary ability, 255. Strenuous (adjective)
knowledge, or skill to do something successfully. Definition: Requiring or using great effort or
Synonyms: Capable, Able, Proficient, Adept, exertion.
Adroit. Synonyms: Arduous, Difficult, Hard, Tough,
Antonyms: Incompetent, Inadequate. Taxing
Usage: A witness protection order will be Antonyms: Easy, Effortless, Half-hearted,
passed by a competent authority. Feeble
Usage: The government made strenuous
250. Extradition (Noun) efforts to upgrade the quality of the teaching
Definition: The action of extraditing a person profession.
accused or convicted of a crime.
Synonyms: Deportation, Handover, Repatriation, 256. Flare-up (noun)
Antonyms: Hold, Keep Definition: A sudden outburst of something,
Usage: The extradition to India of British especially violence or hostility.
businessman Christian Michel, alleged to be the Synonyms: Blow up, Flip (out)
middleman in the AgustaWestland helicopters Antonyms: Calm (down), Simmer down
case. Usage: Naturally I flared up when he insulted
me.

24
257. Tacit (Adjective) 263. Notorious (Adjective)

Definition: Understood or implied without Definition: Famous or well known, typically for
being stated. some bad quality or deed.
Synonyms: Implicit, Understood, Implied Synonyms: Infamous, Of ill repute, Ill-famed,
Antonyms: Explicit, Stated Scandalous
Usage: Your silence may be taken to mean tacit Antonyms: Unknown, Anonymous, Faceless
agreement. Usage: Los Angeles is notorious for its smog.
258. Scourge (Noun) 264. Morbid (Adjective)

Definition: A person or thing that causes great Definition: Characterized by an abnormal and
trouble or suffering. unhealthy interest in disturbing and unpleasant
Synonyms: subjects, especially death and disease.
Affliction, Bane, Curse, Plague, Menace Synonyms: Ghoulish, Macabre, Unhealthy,
Antonyms: Blessing, Godsend Gruesome
Usage: As an environmental scourge that killed Antonyms: Wholesome
an estimated 1.24 million people in India in 2017 Usage: His morbid fascination with the horrors
of contemporary warfare.
259. Perennial (Adjective)
Definition: Lasting or existing for a long or 265. Defy (verb)
apparently infinite time; enduring or continually Definition: openly resist or refuse to obey.
recurring. Synonyms: Disobey, Refuse to obey, Flout
Synonyms: Everlasting, Perpetual, Eternal Antonyms: Obey, Surrender
Antonyms: His perennial distrust of the media Usage: A woman who defies convention.
Usage: Antiquated, Archaic, Dated, Obsolete
266. Keen (Adjective)
260. Residue (Noun) Definition: Having or showing eagerness or
Definition: A small amount of something that enthusiasm
remains after the main part has gone or been Synonyms: Eager, Anxious, Impatient,
taken or used. Determined, Desirous
Synonyms: Remainder, Remaining part, Part Antonyms: Reluctant, Apathetic, Half-hearted
leftover Usage: A keen gardener
Antonyms: Base, Core, Lack, Necessity
Usage: The fine residue left after the sorting of 267. Endear (Verb)
tea. Definition: Having qualities that tend to make
one loved
261. Unbridled (Adjective) Synonyms: Adorable, Darling, Dear, Disarming
Definition: Uncontrolled; Unconstrained Antonyms: Unloved, Contemptible, Disagreeable
Synonyms: Unrestrained, Unconstrained, Usage: Mr. Patel’s reclusive and non
Uncontrolled communicative style may not have endeared him
Antonyms: Restrained, Controlled to some bankers.
Usage: A moment of unbridled ambition.
268. Gauntlet (Noun)
262. Ambient (Adjective) Definition: Go through an intimidating or
Definition: Relating to the immediate dangerous crowd or experience in order to reach
surroundings of something. a goal.
Synonyms: Atmosphere, Climate, Clime, Context, Synonyms: Armor, Challenge, Glove, Onslaught
Antonyms: Motionless, Stationary, Still Usage: They firmly threw down the gauntlet to
Usage: The liquid is stored at below ambient hosts Australia
temperature.

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
25
269. Debilitating (Adjective) Usage: Tough results for the ruling party in state
Definition: Tending to weaken something. elections foretell a fearsome battle for national
Synonyms: Weakening, Enfeebling, Enervating power next year
Antonyms: Restorative
Usage: That result set a debilitating pattern and 275. Scads (Noun)
subsequent visits ended up with two grim Definition: A large number or quantity.
realities. Synonyms: Lots, Scores, Jilion
Antonyms: Little
270. Anomaly (Noun) Usage: Modi’s brand of aggressive Hindu
Definition: something that deviates from what is nationalism plays well, the BJP lost scads of
standard, normal, or expected. seats.
Synonyms: Oddity, Peculiarity, Abnormality,
Irregularity 276. Punters (Noun)
Antonyms: Normal, Typical, Regular Definition: A person who gambles, places a
Usage: The larger goal now should be to rectify bet, or makes a risky investment
the other glaring anomaly. Synonyms: Gambler, Backer, Staker, Speculator
Antonyms: Broker, Merchant, Seller, Vendor
271. Tamper (Verb) Usage: Madhya Pradesh kept punters breathless
Definition: Interfere with (something) in order to throughout the counting, with neither of the two
cause damage or make unauthorized alterations. big parties securing a majority, but Congress
Synonyms: Interfere, Monkey Around, Meddle, ahead.
Tinke
Usage: Someone tampered with the brakes of my 277. Grumbled (Verb)
car. Definition: Complain about something in a
bad-tempered way.
272. Wilderness (Noun) Synonyms: Complain, Moan, Groan, Whine,
Definition: An uncultivated, uninhabited, and in Mutter
hospitable region. Antonyms: Compliment, Praise
Synonyms: Jungle, Desert, Bundu, Uninhabited Usage: Many members had grumbled about
region the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
Antonyms: City, Metropolis
Usage: For a party that had appeared to be lost in 278. Spur (Verb)
the political wilderness over the past few years. Definition: Give an incentive or encouragement to
(someone).
273. Fright (Noun) Synonyms: Stimulate, Motivating, Galvanize,
Definition: A sudden intense feeling of fear. inspire
Synonyms: Perturbation, Nervousness, Antonyms: Disincentive, Discouragement
Apprehension Usage: The promise of economic reforms aimed
Antonyms: Aplomb, Assurance, Boldness, at spurring development brought the hope, in
Confidence 2014.
Usage: Indian voters give Narendra Modi’s BJP a
fright. 279. Antiquated (Adjective)
Definition: Old-fashioned or outdated.
274. Fearsome (Adjective) Synonyms: Outdated, Out of date, Outmoded
Definition: Frightening, especially in appearance. Antonyms: Current, Modern, Up to date
Synonyms: Frightening, Horrifying, Terrifying, Usage: Some of Mr Modi’s many efforts deserve
Menacing applause, notably the reform of India’s
Antonyms: Calming, Comforting, Consoling, antiquated bankruptcy law.
Inviting

26
280. Rattle (Verb) Usage: His company’s financial predicament is

Definition: Make or cause to make a rapid due less to the problems that beset the aviation
succession of short, sharp knocking sounds sector.
Synonyms: Clatter, Bang, Clang, Clank, Clink
Antonyms: Quiet, Silence, Selectness, Still, 286. Profligate (Adjective)
Stillness Definition: Recklessly extravagant or wasteful
Usage: Mr Modi’s party is rattled, and can be in the use of resources.
expected to adjust its strategy defensively. Synonyms: Wasteful, Extravagant, Spendthrift,
Improvident
281. Reprieve (Verb) Antonyms: Thrifty, Frugal
Definition: Cancel or postpone the punishment of Usage: Profligate consumers of energy.
Synonyms: Save, Rescue, Acquit
Antonyms: Charge, Punish 287. Flamboyant (Adjective)
Usage: British Prime Minister Theresa May won Definition: (of a person or their behavior)
a temporary reprieve on Wednesday as tending to attract attention because of their
Conservative MPs backed her by a majority of 83 exuberance, confidence, and stylishness.
in a secret ballot. Synonyms: Ostentatious, Exuberant, Confident
Antonyms: Modest, Restrained
282. Reconcile (Noun) Usage: The band's flamboyant lead singer.
Definition: Restore friendly relations between.
Synonyms: Reunite, Bring (back) together (again) 288. Bifurcation (Noun)
Antonyms: Estrange, Alienate Definition: The division of something into two
Usage: The king and the archbishop were branches or parts.
publicly reconciled. Synonyms: Break, Break Down, Carve, Cross
Antonyms: Attach, Combine, Fix
283. Susceptibility (Noun) Usage: The bifurcation of the profession.
Definition: The state or fact of being likely or
liable to be influenced or harmed by a particular 289. Stewardship (Noun)
thing. Definition: The job of supervising or taking care
Synonyms: Vulnerability, Sensitivity, Openness of something, such as an organization or
Antonyms: Immunity, Resistance property.
Usage: Mr. Mallya’s lawyers raised doubts Synonyms: Care, Charge, Guidance, Headship
about the CBI’s independence, its alleged Care, Charge, Guidance, Headship
susceptibility to political interference. Antonyms: Ignorance, Neglect, Negligence,
Destruction
284. Portray (Verb) Usage: The funding and stewardship of the NHS.
Definition: Describe (someone or something)
in a particular way. 290. Infighting (Noun)
Synonyms: Describe, Depict, Characterize, Definition: Hidden conflict or competitiveness
Represent, Delineate within an organization.
Antonyms: Color, Distort, Falsify, Garble Synonyms: Clash, Collision, Competition,
Usage: The ineffectual Oxbridge dons portrayed Contention
by Evelyn Waugh. Antonyms: Accord, Agreement, Concord
Usage: Infighting between departments grew
285. Predicament (Noun) worse.
Definition: A difficult, unpleasant, or
embarrassing situation. 291. Curb (verb)
Synonyms: Plight, Quandary, Trouble, Definition: Restrain or keep in check.
Antonyms: Advantage, Agreement, Benefit

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
27
Synonyms: Restrain, Hold back, Keep back, Hold Definition: Having or showing a lack of courtesy;
in, Repress rough or abrupt.
Antonyms: Release Synonyms: Abrupt, Sudden, Hasty, Hurried
Usage: She promised she would curb her temper. Antonyms: Polite, Formal
Usage: He was known for his strong views and
292. Protestation (Noun) unceremonious manners.
Definition: An emphatic declaration in response
to doubt or accusation. 298. Lofty (Adjective)
Synonyms: Declaration, Announcement, Definition: Of imposing height.
Statement, Profession Synonyms: Tall, High, Giant, Towering
Antonyms: Acceptance, Agreement, Allowance Antonyms: Low, Short
Usage: Her protestations of innocence were in Usage: The elegant square was shaded by lofty
vain. palms.
293. Dilemma (Noun) 299. Deflationary (Adjective)

Definition: A difficult situation or problem. Definition: Characterized by or tending to cause
Synonyms: Quandary, Predicament, Difficulty economic deflation.
Antonyms: Solution, Advantage, Benefit Synonyms: Bankruptcy, Collapse, Decline,
Usage: The insoluble dilemma of adolescence. Deflation
Antonyms: Increase, Rise, Success
294. Dispense (Verb) Usage: The deflation of the illusion that the
Definition: Give special exemption from (a law or 1960s were a perpetual party.
rule).
Synonyms: Allocate, Allot, Apportion, Assign, 300. Quandary (Noun)
Bestow Definition: A state of perplexity or uncertainty
Antonyms: Collect, Include, Keep over what to do in a difficult situation.
Usage: The Secretary of State was empowered to Synonyms: Dilemma, Plight, Predicament
dispense with the nationality requirement in Antonyms: Breeze, Cinch, Duck Soup, Snap
individual cases. Usage: A legal quandary.
295. Paraphrase (Verb) 301. Interim (Noun)

Definition: Express the meaning of (something Definition: The intervening time.
written or spoken) using different words, Synonyms: Meantime, Meanwhile
especially to achieve greater clarity. Antonyms: Permanent
Synonyms: Reword, Rephrase Usage: In the interim I'll just keep my fingers
Antonyms: Copy, Transcript, Transcription crossed.
Usage: You can either quote or paraphrase
literary texts. 302. Steadfast (Adjective)
Definition: Resolutely or dutifully firm and
296. Referendum (Noun) unwavering.
Definition: A general vote by the electorate on a Synonyms: Loyal, Faithful, Committed
single political question which has been referred Antonyms: Disloyal, Irresolute
to them for a direct decision. Usage: Steadfast loyalty
Synonyms: Plebiscite, Popular Vote, Ballot, Poll
Usage: He called for a referendum on the death 303. Spiral (Noun)
penalty. Definition: a progressive rise or fall of prices,
wages, etc.,
297. Unceremonious Synonyms: Coil, Helix, Curl, Corkscrew,
Antonyms: Fall

28
Usage: A spiral of smoke Usage: The Congress leadership has opted in the
end for experience over youthful dynamism.
304. Multilateral (Adjective)
Definition: Agreed upon or participated in by 309. Blockade (Verb)
three or more parties, especially the Definition: Seal off (a place) to prevent goods or
governments of different countries. people from entering or leaving.
Synonyms: Balance of trade, Fair-trading, Synonyms: Barricade, Close up, Block off, Shut
Managed prices off, Seal, Bar; Besiege
Antonyms: Unilateral Antonyms: Reopen, Unblock, Unbolt
Usage: Multilateral negotiations. Usage: Qatar, blockaded by three GCC
countries, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain.
305. Err (Verb)
Definition: Be mistaken or incorrect; make a 310. Embargo (Noun)
mistake. Definition: An official ban on trade or other
Synonyms: Misjudge, Mistake, Blunder, commercial activity with a particular country.
Antonyms: Innocent, Well behaved Synonyms: Ban, Interdict, Interdiction,
Usage: The judge had erred in ruling that the Prohibition, Proscription, Veto
evidence was inadmissible. Antonyms: Prescription, Sufferance,
Tolerance, Toleration
306. Mockery (Noun) Usage: Saudi Arabia is upset that Oman and
Definition: An absurd misrepresentation or Kuwait did not join the embargo.
imitation of something.
Synonyms: Travesty, Charade, Farce, Parody, 311. Dampen (Verb)
laughing stock Definition: Make slightly wet.
Antonyms: Honesty, Openness, Truth, Flattery Synonyms: Moisten, Damp, Wet, Dew, Water
Usage: Members of the Congress Legislature Antonyms: Dry, Drench
Party in the three States left the choice to Usage: The intra-Gulf quarrels have dampened
Congress president Rahul Gandhi, making a hopes for the integration of the region.
mockery of democratic conventions.
312. Customary (Adjective)
307. Opaque (Adjective) Definition: According to the customs or usual
Definition: Not able to be seen through; not practices associated with a particular society,
transparent. place, or set of circumstances.
Synonyms: Non-transparent, Cloudy, Filmy, Synonyms: Usual, Traditional, Normal,
Blurred Conventional
Antonyms: Transparent, Translucent, Clear Antonyms: Unusual, Exceptional, Rare
Usage: Closed-door discussions and opaque Usage: The GCC issued a customary
deal-making preceded the final announcement of statement, emphasizing regional stability and
the nominees, to be elected “unanimously” in economic challenges
another meeting of the CLP.
313. Avert (Verb)
308. Dynamism (Noun) Definition: Turn away (one's eyes or thoughts).
Definition: The quality of being characterized by Synonyms: Prevent, Stop, Avoid
vigorous activity and progress. Antonyms: Abet, Aid, Assist
Synonyms: Energy, Spirit, Liveliness, Zestfulness, Usage: The strong support among citizens of all
Vitality, Vigour countries for urgent action to avert dangerous
Antonyms: Lethargy, Listlessness, Sluggishness, climate change.
Torpidity
314. Peg (verb)

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
29
Definition: An individual part of a process, series, 319. Negligent (Adjective)

or ranking. Definition: Failing to take proper care over
Synonyms: Chapter, Cut, Degree, Grade, Inch something.
Antonyms: Confuse, Disarrange, Jumble Synonyms: Careless, Remiss, Neglectful
Usage: The UNFCCC has a long road ahead Antonyms: Careful, Attentive, Conscientious
before carbon emissions can be pegged at levels Usage: The council had been negligent in its
lagged by scientists. supervision of the children in care.
315. Stark (Adjective) 320. Adverse (Adjective)

Definition: Harsh and threatening in manner or Definition: Preventing success or development,
appearance harmful
Synonyms: Austere, Dour, Fierce, Flinty, Synonyms Unfavorable, Disadvantageous,
Forbidding Inauspicious
Antonyms: Bland, Meek, Mellow, Soft, Soothing Antonyms: Favorable, Beneficial, Positive,
Usage: Recently, the Intergovernmental Panel on Friendly
Climate Change (IPCC), in a special report, issued Usage: Taxes are having an adverse effect on
a stark warning on man-made emissions. production.
316. Reliance (Noun) 321. Combustible (Adjective)

Definition: Dependence on or trust in someone or Definition: Able to catch fire and burn easily.
something. Synonyms: Inflammable, Flammable, Incendiary
Synonyms: Dependence, Mainstay, Pillar, Antonyms: Incombustible
Standby Usage: A combustible gas.
Antonyms: Independence, Independency, Self
dependence, Self-reliance 322. Evacuate (Verb)
Usage: Scaling up solar and wind power in line Definition: To remove the contents of
with the goal of reaching 175 GW of renewable Synonyms: Clear, Empty, Vacate, Void
energy by 2022, steadily reducing reliance on Antonyms: Fill, Load
coal. Usage: Evacuate the cupboards completely
before spraying the insecticide.
317. Complacency (Noun)
Definition: A feeling of smug or uncritical 323. Dismal (Adjective)
satisfaction with oneself or one's achievements. Definition: Causing a mood of gloom or
Synonyms: Smugness, Self-satisfaction, Self depression.
approval Synonyms: Dingy, Dim, Dark, Gloomy, Sombre,
Antonyms: Dissatisfaction Drear
Usage: The prospect of increased frequency and Antonyms: Bright, Cheerful
intensity of extreme weather events and sea level Usage: The dismal weather made the late
rise in a warming world affecting small island afternoon seem like evening.
states allows little room for complacency.
224. Accretion (Noun)
318. Blaze (Noun) Definition: Growth or increase by the gradual
Definition: A sudden intense expression of strong accumulation of additional layers or matter.
feeling. Synonyms: Accumulation, Collecting, Gathering
Synonyms: Agony, Burst, Ebullition, Eruption, Antonyms: Deduction, Subtraction
Explosion Usage: A thick accretion of ice in a freezer that
Antonyms: Blackness, Dark, Darkness, obviously had not been cleaned for some time.
Dimness, Dusk
Usage: Twenty firemen fought the blaze. 325. Garner (Verb)

30
Definition: gather or collect (something, Synonyms: Surveillance, Reconnaissance,

especially information or approval). Intelligence
Synonyms: Gather, Collect, Accumulate Usage: The acts of espionage on behalf of the
Antonyms: Spread Confederacy carried on by Belle Boyd and Rose
Usage: The police struggled to garner sufficient Greenhow..
evidence.
331. Scathing (Adjective)
326. Diversify (Verb) Definition: Witheringly scornful; severely critical.
Definition: Make or become more diverse or Synonyms: Devastating, Withering, Blistering
varied. Antonyms: Mild, Gentle, Complimentary
Synonyms: Branch out, Vary output, Expand Usage: She launched a scathing attack on the
Antonyms: Continue, Keep, Remain, Stay Prime Minister.
Usage: The trilobites diversified into a great
number of specie. 332. Insurrection (Noun)
Definition: Rebellion, Revolt, Uprising, Mutiny,
327. Sustainable (Adjective) Revolution
Definition: Able to be maintained at a certain rate Synonyms: Insurgence, Insurgency, Mutiny,
or level. Outbreak
Synonyms: Defendable, Defensible, Justifiable, Antonyms: Counterinsurgency, Counterrevolution
Maintainable Usage: The insurrection was savagely put down.
Antonyms: Indefensible, Insupportable,
Unjustifiable 333. Revoke (Verb)
Usage: A line of argument that is probably not Definition: Officially cancel (a decree, decision, or
sustainable in a public forum against skilled promise).
debaters. Synonyms: Cancel, Repeal, Rescind, Reverse,
Abrogate
328. Plight (Noun) Antonyms: Introduce, Enact, Ratify
Definition: A dangerous, difficult, or otherwise Usage: The men appealed and the sentence was
unfortunate situation. revoked
Synonyms: Condition, Predicament, Quandary,
Trouble 334. Deplorable (Adjective)
Antonyms: Advantage, Solution, Benefit Definition: Deserving strong condemnation;
Usage: The plight of the young man, who had completely unacceptable.
crossed over into Pakistan from Afghanistan in Synonyms: Disgraceful, Shameful, Dishonorable,
2012. Disreputable
Antonyms: Admirable
329. Befriend (Verb) Usage: Children living in deplorable conditions.
Definition: Act as or become a friend to
(someone), especially when they are in need of 335. Unfazed (Adjective)
help or support. Definition: Not disconcerted or perturbed.
Synonyms: Encourage, Sustain, Uphold, Succour Synonyms: Undaunted, Unperturbed, Calm
Antonyms: Snub, Reject Antonyms: Anxious, Perturbed, Upset,
Usage: He makes a point of befriending Worried
newcomers to Parliament Usage: Mr. Trump, however, appears unfazed.
330. Espionage (Noun) 336. Caliphate (Noun)

Definition: The practice of spying or of using Definition: The rule or reign of a caliph or chief
spies, typically by governments to obtain political Muslim ruler.
and military information. Synonyms: Czar, Emperor, King

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
31
Antonyms: Commoner, Subject Synonyms: Preface, Introduction, Prologue,

Usage: Now he claims that the physical Preamble
infrastructure of the IS caliphate is destroyed and Antonyms: Aftermath, Cessation, Close
the U.S. Usage: The editor makes some good points in
the foreword about the author's life, so be sure to
337. Remnant (Noun) read it.
Definition: A part or quantity that is left after the
greater part has been used, removed, or 343. Confined (Adjective)
destroyed. Definition: (of a space) restricted in area or
Synonyms: Remains, Remainder, Leftovers, volume; cramped.
Leavings Synonyms: Cramped, Constricted, Restricted,
Antonyms: Whole, Base, Core, Lack Limited
Usage: can leave the war against the remnants Antonyms: Open, Roomy
of the jihadist group to the Syrian government Usage: The IS has lost 95% of the territory it once
and its main backers, Russia and Iran. controlled and is now confined to narrow pockets
on the Iraqi-Syrian border.
338. Abrupt (Adjective)
Definition: Sudden and unexpected. 344. Consolation (Noun)
Synonyms: Sudden, Immediate, Instantaneous Definition: The comfort received by a person after
Antonyms: Gradual, Unhurried a loss or disappointment.
Usage: The cost of being so abrupt is that it Synonyms: Comfort, Solace; Sympathy,
leaves a dangerous vacuum in northeastern Compassion
Syria. Antonyms: Anguish, Distress, Heartache
Usage: The consolation of the grieving family by
339. Impulsive (Adjective) their pastor.
Definition: Acting or done without forethought.
Synonyms: Impetuous, Spontaneous, Hasty, 345. Restrictive (Adjective)
Passionate Definition: Imposing restrictions on someone's
Antonyms: Cautious, Premeditated activities or freedom.
Usage: They'd married as impulsive teenagers. Synonyms: Cap, Circumscribe, Confine
Antonyms: Broaden, Expand, Widen
340. Inextricable (Adjective) Usage: A web of restrictive regulations
Definition: Impossible to disentangle or separate.
Synonyms: Inseparable, Indivisible, Entangled, 346. Rein (verb)
Tangled Definition: Keep under control; restrain.
Usage: The past and the present are inextricable. Synonyms: Restrain, Check, Curb, Constrain,
Antonyms: Helplessness, Weakness
341. Concede (Verb) Usage: After the president resigned, the vice
Definition: Admit or agree that something is true president stepped in and took the reins of the
after first denying or resisting it. company.
Synonyms: Admit, Acknowledge, Accept, Allow,
Grant 347. Catastrophe
Antonyms: Deny Definition: An event causing great and usually
Usage: I had to concede that I'd overreacted. sudden damage or suffering; a disaster.
Synonyms: Disaster, Calamity, Cataclysm, Crisis
342. Foreword (Noun) Antonyms: Salvation, Godsend
Definition: A short introduction to a book, Usage: An environmental catastrophe.
typically by a person other than the author.
348. Insouciance (Noun)

32
Definition: Casual lack of concern; indifference. Definition: Prevent or hinder the progress of.
Synonyms: Nonchalance, Unconcern Synonyms: Impede, Interfere with, Hamper,
Antonyms: Anxiety, Concern Hinder, Obstruct
Usage: An impression of boyish insouciance. Antonyms: Assist, Help
Usage: The changes must not be allowed to
349. Behest (Noun) stymie new medical treatments.
Definition: A person's orders or command.
Synonyms: Instruction, Bidding, Request, 356. Retaliation (Noun)
Requirement Definition: The action of returning a military
Antonyms: Appeal, Entreaty, Petition, Plea, attack; counter-attack.
Usage: I only made the change at the author's Synonyms: Revenge, Vengeance, Reprisal,
behest. Retribution
Antonyms: Clemency, Grace, Leniency, Lenity,
350. Malign (Adjective) Mercy
Definition: Evil in nature or effect. Usage: The bombings are believed to be in
Synonyms: Harmful, Evil, Bad, Baleful, Hostile retaliation for the trial of 15 suspects
Antonyms: Beneficial
Usage: She had a strong and malign influence. 357. Covert (Adjective)
Definition: Not openly acknowledged or
351. Faraway (Adjective) displayed.
Definition: Distant in space or time. Synonyms: Secret, Furtive, Clandestine,
Synonyms: Distant, Far Off, Far Surreptitious,
Antonyms: Nearby, Neighbouring Antonyms: Overt, Above Board
Usage: Exotic and faraway locations Usage: Covert operations against the
dictatorship.
352. Tantrum (Noun)
Definition: An unncontrolled outburst of anger and 358. Prudent (Adjective)
frustration, typically in a young child. Definition: Acting with or showing care and
Synonyms: Fit, Outburst, Flare-up, Blow-up, Pet thought for the future.
Antonyms: Happiness, Peace, Calm Synonyms: Wise, Well Judged, Judicious,
Usage: He has temper tantrums if he can't get his Sagacious, Sage
own way Antonyms: Unwise, Imprudent, Incautious,
Extravagant
353. Palpable (Adjective) Usage: No prudent money manager would
Definition: (of a feeling or atmosphere) so intense authorize a loan without first knowing its
as to seem almost tangible. purpose.
Synonyms: Perceptible, Perceivable, Visible,
Noticeable, Appreciable 359. Apparent (Adjective)
Antonyms: Intangible, Imperceptible Definition: Clearly visible or understood; obvious.
Usage: A palpable sense of loss. Synonyms: Evident, Plain, Obvious, Clear,
Manifest,
354. Fraught (Adjective) Antonyms: Unclear, Obscure
Definition: Causing or affected by anxiety or Usage: For no apparent reason she laughed.
stress.
Synonyms: Anxious, Worried, Upset, Distraught 361. Acrimonious (Adjective)
Antonyms: Clam Definition: (Typically of speech or discussion)
Usage: There was a fraught silence. angry and bitter.
Synonyms: Bitter, Rancorous, Caustic, Acerbic
355. Stymie (Verb) Antonyms: Caring, Forgiving, Gentle, Unbitter

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
33
Usage: An acrimonious dispute about wages. Usage: His analysis is lacking in rigour.
362. Impunity (Noun) 368. Requisition (Noun)

Definition: Exemption from punishment or Definition: Something that someone insists upon
freedom from the injurious consequences of an having
action. Synonyms: Claim, Demand, Dun, Importunity,
Synonyms: Immunity, Indemnity Ultimatum
Antonyms: Liability, Responsibility Antonyms:
Usage: The impunity enjoyed by military Usage: A brand-new, top-notch computer was
officers implicated in civilian killings. the new science teacher’s first requisition.
363. Hound (Verb) 369. Unscrupulous (Adjective)

Definition: Harass, persecute, or pursue Definition: Having or showing no moral
relentlessly. principles; not honest or fair.
Synonyms: Harass, Persecute, Harry, Pester, Synonyms: Unprincipled, Unethical, Immoral,
Bother, Trouble. Amoral,
Antonyms: Leave in peace Antonyms: Ethical, Honest
Usage: She was hounded by the Italian press. Usage: Unscrupulous landlords might be tempted
to harass existing tenants.
364. Diktat (Noun)
Definition: An order or decree imposed by 370. Colloquial (Adjective)
someone in power without popular consent. Definition: (of language) used in ordinary or
Synonyms: Bull, Decree, Directive, Edict, Fiat familiar conversation; not formal or literary.
Usage: Governments have often given in to the Synonyms: Informal, Conversational, Everyday,
mob’s diktats, either as the easy way out or for Casual
political signalling. Antonyms: Literary, Formal
Usage: Colloquial and everyday language
365. Vigilante (Noun)
Definition: one who inflicts punishment in return 371. Subtlety (Noun)
for an injury or offense Definition: A subtle distinction, feature, or
Synonyms: Avenger, Castigator, Chastiser argument.
Antonyms: Redeemer, Vindicator Synonyms: Delicacy, Delicateness, Subtleness
Usage: The danger of these self-appointed Antonyms: Slow-wittedness, Dullness, Crudeness
vigilantes is that they sometimes go after Usage: we appreciated the subtlety with which
innocent people. our host indicated that it was time to leave: he
volunteered to pack us a little lunch for the road.
366. Outburst (Noun)
Definition: A sudden release of strong emotion. 372. Coherent (Adjective)
Synonyms: Eruption, Explosion, Burst, Outbreak Definition: (of an argument, theory, or policy)
Antonyms: Implosion logical and consistent.
Usage: Amid the acrimonious outburst against Synonyms: Logical, Reasoned, Reasonable
him, no one cares to listen. Antonyms: Incoherent, Muddled
Usage: They failed to develop a coherent
367. Rigour (Noun) economic strategy.
Definition: The quality of being extremely
thorough and careful. 373. Disinclination (Noun)
Synonyms: Meticulousness, Thoroughness, Definition: A reluctance or lack of enthusiasm.
Carefulness Synonyms: Reluctance, Unwillingness, Lack of
Antonyms: Carelessness Enthusiasm, Indisposition, Slowness

34
Antonyms: Inclination, Enthusiasm Usage: A formidable opponent.

Usage: Lucy felt a strong disinclination to
talk about her engagement 379. Tumultuous (Adjective)
Definition: Making an uproar or loud, confused
374. Betray (Verb) noise.
Definition: Expose (one's country, a group, or a Synonyms: Loud, Deafening, Thunderous,
person) to danger by treacherously giving Thundering
information to an enemy. Antonyms: Peaceful, Uneventful, Orderly
Synonyms: Reveal, Disclose, Divulge Usage: Tumultuous applause
Antonyms: Conceal, Hide
Usage: Many of those employed by diplomats 380. Resentment (Noun)
betrayed secrets. Definition: Bitter indignation at having been
treated unfairly.
375. Remnant (Noun) Synonyms: Bitterness, Indignation, Irritation,
Definition: A remaining group or portion. Pique
Synonyms: Balance, Leavings, Leftovers Antonyms: Contentment, Happiness
Antonyms: Body, Bulk, Main, Mass Usage: His resentment at being demoted.
Usage: Sailed home with just a remnant of the Monthly Editorial – December 2018
colonys original population aboard
Editorial 28 – 12 – 2018 381. Repressive (Adjective)
Definition: (especially of a social or political
376. High-handed (Adjective) system) inhibiting or restraining personal
Definition: Having a feeling of superiority that freedom.
shows itself in an overbearing attitude Synonyms: Oppressive, Authoritarian,
Synonyms: Arrogant, Assumptive, Bumptious, Despotic, Tyrannical.
Cavalier Antonyms: Democratic, Liberal
Antonyms: Humble, Lowly, Modest, Usage: A repressive regime.
Unpretentious
Usage: Bangladesh goes to the polls amid 382. Envisage (Verb)
allegations of high-handedness by the Definition: Contemplate or conceive of as a
government possibility or a desirable future event.
Synonyms: Foresee, Predict, Forecast, Foretell
377. Canorous (Adjective) Usage: The Rome Treaty envisaged free
Definition: Having a pleasing mixture of notes movement across frontiers.
Synonyms: Euphonic, Euphonious, Harmonious,
Harmonizing 383. Furore (Noun)
Antonyms: Discordant, Disharmonious, Definition: An outbreak of public anger or
Dissonant excitement.
Usage: A canorous chorus of birdsong filled the Synonyms: Commotion, Uproar, Outcry,
morning air Disturbance
Antonyms: Calm, Calmness, Peace
378. Formidable (Adjective) Usage: The storeʼs going-out-of-business sale
Definition: Inspiring fear or respect through caused such a furore that security guards had to
being impressively large, powerful, intense, or be called in to restore order.
capable.
Synonyms: Intimidating, Forbidding, 384. Salutary (Adjective)
Redoubtable, Daunting Definition: (especially with reference to
Antonyms: Pleasant-looking, Comforting, something unwelcome or unpleasant) producing
Easy, Weak good effects; beneficial.

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
35
Synonyms: Beneficial, Good, Good for one, Usage: The decision was derided by
Advantageous, Profitable Environmentalists.
Antonyms: Unwelcome, Irrelevant
Usage: It failed to draw salutary lessons from 391. Denude (Verb)
Britain's loss of its colonies. Definition: Strip (something) of its covering,
possessions, or assets.
385. Offend (Verb) Synonyms: Divest, Strip, Clear, Deprive, Bereave
Definition: Cause to feel upset, annoyed, or Antonyms: Cover
resentful. Usage: Almost overnight the Arctic was denuded
Synonyms: Affront, Upset, Displease, Distress, of animals.
Hurt, Wound, Pain, Injure,
Antonyms: Please, Delight 392. Vest (V
Verb)
Usage: 17 per cent of viewers said they had been Definition: confer or bestow (power, authority,
offended by bad language property, etc.) on someone.
Synonyms: entrust to, invest in, bestow on,
386. Spurn (Verb) confer on
Definition: Reject with disdain or contempt. Antonyms: disapprove, dislodge, leave
Synonyms: Refuse, Decline, Reject, Rebuff, Scorn Usage: “executive power is vested in the
Antonyms: Condone, Countenance, Swallow President”
Usage: He spoke gruffly, as if afraid that his
invitation would be spurned. 393. Litigation (N
Noun)
Definition: the process of taking legal action.
387. Conscription (Noun) Synonyms: legal proceeding(s), legal action,
Definition: Compulsory enlistment for state lawsuit, legal dispute
service, typically into the armed forces. Antonyms: demand, order
Synonyms: Draftee, Inductee, Selectee Usage: “the company wishes to avoid litigation”
Antonyms: Enlistee, Volunteer
Usage: conscription was extended to married 394. Oblique (N
Noun)
men. Definition: not expressed or done in a direct way.
Synonyms: indirect, inexplicit, roundabout,
388. Enunciate (Verb) circuitous
Definition: Say or pronounce clearly. Antonyms: direct, explicit
Synonyms: Pronounce, Articulate Usage: “he issued an oblique attack on the
Antonyms: Falter, Grunt, Halt, Hesitate President”
Usage: Enunciate your words, and then you won’t
have to repeat them so often. 395. Apparent (AAdjective)
Definition: clearly visible or understood; obvious.
389. Muster (Verb) Synonyms: evident, plain, obvious, clear,
Definition: Assemble (troops), especially for manifest, visible
inspection or in preparation for battle. Antonyms: unclear, obscure
Synonyms: Assemble, Marshal, Mobilize, Rally. Usage: “for no apparent reason she laughed”
Antonyms: Disperse
Usage: The cavalrymen mustered beside the 396. Apportion (VVerb)
other regiments Definition: divide up and share out.
Synonyms: share out, divide out, allocate,
390. Deride (Verb) distribute
Definition: Express contempt for; ridicule. Antonyms: misallocate, amass, combine,
Synonyms: Ridicule, Mock concentrate
Antonyms: Respect, Praise Usage: “voting power will be apportioned

36
according to contribution” begin to develop.

Synonyms: develop, gather force, loom, be close
397. Beset (VVerb) Antonyms: destroy, divide, end, ignore
Definition: be covered or studded with. Usage: “there was more trouble brewing as the
Synonyms: surround, besiege, hem in, shut in miners went on strike”
Antonyms: free
Usage: “springy grass all beset with tiny jewel- 403. Dissidents (NNoun)
like flowers” Definition: a person who opposes official policy,
especially that of an authoritarian state.
398. Fickle (A
Adjective) Synonyms: dissenter, objector, protester,
Definition: changing frequently, especially as disputant
regards one’s loyalties or affections. Antonyms: conformist
Synonyms: capricious, changeable, variable, Usage: “a dissident who had been jailed by a
volatile military regime”
Antonyms: constant, stable
Usage: “celebs trying to appeal to an increasingly 404. Legitimate (AAdjective)
fickle public” Definition: conforming to the law or to rules.
Synonyms: legal, lawful, licit, legalized,
399. Prudent (AAdjective) authorized
Definition: acting with or showing care and Antonyms: illegal, illegitimate
thought for the future. Usage: “his claims to legitimate authority”
Synonyms: wise, well judged, judicious,
sagacious, sage 405. Dubious (AAdjective)
Antonyms: unwise, imprudent, incautious Definition: hesitating or doubting.
Usage: “no prudent money manager would Synonyms: doubtful, uncertain, unsure, in doubt,
authorize a loan without first knowing its hesitant
purpose” Antonyms: certain, definite
Usage: “I was rather dubious about the whole
400. Arsenal (N
Noun) idea”
Definition: an array of resources available for a
certain purpose. 406. Conform (VVerb)
Synonyms: array, battery, range, line-up, Definition: comply with rules, standards, or laws.
assortment Synonyms: comply with, abide by, obey, observe
Antonyms: dearth, lack, need Antonyms: flout
Usage: “we have an arsenal of computers at our Usage: “the kitchen does not conform to hygiene
disposal” regulations”
401. Resilience (N Noun) 407. Diatribe (N

Noun)
Definition: the capacity to recover quickly from Definition: a forceful and bitter verbal attack
difficulties; toughness. against someone or something.
Synonyms: flexibility, pliability, suppleness, Synonyms: verbal onslaught, verbal attack,
plasticity, elasticity stream of abuse
Antonyms: rigidity, fragility, vulnerability, Antonyms: calm, harmony, peace
weakness Usage: “a diatribe against consumerism”
Usage: “the often remarkable resilience of so
many British institutions” 408. Sedition (N
Noun)
Definition: the stirring up of discontent,
402. Brew (VVerb) resistance, or rebellion against the government in
Definition: (of an unwelcome event or situation) power

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
37
Synonyms: incitement (to riot/rebellion) agitation Synonyms: enough, sufficient, adequate, plenty
Antonyms: obedience, peace, submission of
Usage: It is a defense against sedition and Antonyms: insufficient,
socialism. Usage: “there is ample time for discussion”
409. Abrogate (V Verb) 415. Persecution (N

Noun)
Definition: repeal or do away with (a law, right, or Definition: hostility and ill-treatment, especially
formal agreement). because of race or political or religious beliefs;
Synonyms: repudiate, revoke, repeal, rescind, oppression.
overturn Synonyms: oppression, victimization,
Antonyms: institute, introduce maltreatment, ill treatment
Usage: “a proposal to abrogate temporarily the Antonyms: happiness, help, joy, protection
right to strike” Usage: “her family fled religious persecution”
410. Inevitable (A
Adjective) Adjective)
416. Substantial (A
Definition: certain to happen; unavoidable. Definition: of considerable importance, size, or
Synonyms: unavoidable, inescapable, bound to worth.
happen Synonyms: considerable, real, material, weighty,
Antonyms: avoidable, uncertain solid
Usage: “war was inevitable” Antonyms: insubstantial, worthless
Usage: “a substantial amount of cash”
411. Trailing (V
Verb)
Definition: draw or be drawn along behind 417. Deportation (NNoun)
someone or something. Definition: the action of deporting a foreigner
Synonyms: drag, sweep, be drawn, draw, stream from a country.
Antonyms: guiding, leading, piloting, advancing Synonyms: expulsion, expelling, banishment,
Usage: “Alex trailed a hand through the clear banishing, exile
water” Antonyms: admission
Usage: “asylum seekers facing deportation”
412. Imperative (AAdjective)
Definition: of vital importance; crucial. 418. Perverse (AAdjective)
Synonyms: vitally important, of vital importance, Definition: showing a deliberate and obstinate
all-important desire to behave in a way that is unreasonable or
Antonyms: unimportant, optional unacceptable.
Usage: “immediate action was imperative” Synonyms: awkward, contrary, difficult,
unreasonable
413. Parameter (N Noun) Antonyms: accommodating, cooperative
Definition: a limit or boundary which defines the Usage: “Kate’s perverse decision not to
scope of a particular process or activity. cooperate held good”
Synonyms: framework, variable, limit, boundary,
limiting factor 419. Strident (A
Adjective)
Antonyms: stigma, shame, humiliation, scar, Definition: presenting a point of view, especially a
stain controversial one, in an excessively forceful way.
Usage: “the parameters within which the media Synonyms: harsh, raucous, rough, grating,
work” rasping
Antonyms: soft, dulcet
414. Ample (AAdjective) Usage: “public pronouncements on the crisis
Definition: enough or more than enough; became less strident”
plentiful.

38
420. Besmirch (V Verb) Usage: “staff interviewed escapees and defectors

Definition: damage (someone’s reputation). to the West”
Synonyms: sully, tarnish, blacken, drag through
the mud/mire 426. Impel (Verb)
Antonyms: honour, enhance Definition: drive, force, or urge (someone) to do
Usage: “he had besmirched the good name of his something.
family” Synonyms: force, compel, constrain, oblige,
necessitate
421. Requisite (AAdjective) Antonyms: discourage, dissuade, rebuff
Definition: made necessary by particular Usage: “financial difficulties impelled him to
circumstances or regulations. desperate measures”
Synonyms: necessary, required, prerequisite,
essential 427. Augment (V Verb)
Antonyms: optional, unnecessary, non-essential Definition: make (something) greater by adding
Usage: “the application will not be processed to it; increase.
until the requisite fee is paid” Synonyms: increase, make larger, make bigger,
make greater
422. Influx (N
Noun) Antonyms: decrease
Definition: an arrival or entry of large numbers of Usage: “he augmented his summer income byn
people or things. painting houses”
Synonyms: inundation, in rush, rush, stream, M
flood 428. Scion (Noun)
Antonyms: drought, trickle Definition: a descendant of a notable family.
Usage: “a massive influx of tourists” Synonyms: descendant, offshoot
Antonyms: ancestor, predecessor
423. Asylum (N Noun) Usage: “he was the scion of a wealthy family”
Definition: the protection granted by a state to
someone who has left their home country as a 429. Hamstring (VVerb)
political refugee. Definition: severely restrict the efficiency or
Synonyms: refuge, sanctuary, shelter, safety effectiveness of.
Antonyms: danger Synonyms: handicap, constrain, restrict, cripple
Usage: “she applied for asylum and was granted Antonyms: help
refugee status” Usage: “we were hamstrung by a total lack of
knowledge”
424. Tailspin (V
Verb)
Definition: become increasingly chaotic and out 430. Clutch (V
Verb)
of control. Definition: grasp (something) tightly
Synonyms: breakdown, crack-up, nervous Synonyms: grip, grasp, clasp, cling to
breakdown Antonyms: abandon, disbelieve, forsake, free
Antonyms: calmness, composure, contentment, Usage: “he stood clutching a microphone”
ease
Usage: “an economy tail spinning into chaos” 431. Demolish (NNoun)
Definition: overwhelmingly defeat (a player or
425. Defector (N
Noun) team).
Definition: a person who has abandoned their Synonyms: defeat utterly, beat hollow, win a
country or cause in favour of an opposing one. resounding victory over
Synonyms: deserter, turncoat, traitor, rebel, Antonyms: improve, make, increase, develop
renegade Usage: “Arsenal demolished City 3–0”
Antonyms: passivist

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
39
432. Bracing (A
Adjective) Antonyms: perk up
Definition: fresh and invigorating. Usage: “Lady Beresford was beginning to wilt as
Synonyms: invigorating, refreshing, stimulating, she greeted the long line of guests”
energizing, exhilarating, enlivening, reviving
439. Magnitude (Noun)
433. Peers (VVerb) Definition: great importance.
Definition: look with difficulty or concentration at Synonyms: importance, import, significance,
someone or something. weight, moment
Synonyms: squint, look closely/earnestly, try to Antonyms: triviality
see, look through narrowed eyes, narrow one’s Usage: “events of tragic magnitude”
eye
Usage: Faye peered at her with suspicion 440. Cumulative (Adjective)
Definition: increasing or increased in quantity,
434. Bluster (Veerb) degree, or force by successive additions.
Definition: talk in a loud, aggressive, or indignant Synonyms: increasing, accumulative,
way with little effect. accumulating, growing
Synonyms: rant, thunder; boast, brag, swagger Antonyms: decreasing, diminishing, subtracting
Usage: you threaten and bluster, but won’t carry Usage: “the cumulative effect of two years of
it through drought”
435. Rendezvous (Noun) 441. Agog (Adjective)

Definition: a meeting at an agreed time and place Definition: very eager or curious to hear or see
Synonyms: meeting, appointment, engagement something.
Antonyms: disband, disperse, break up, distribute Synonyms: eager, excited, impatient, in suspense
Usage: “Edward turned up late for their Antonyms: uninterested, incurious
rendezvous” Usage: “I’m all agog”
436. Damper (Noun) 442. Resuscitate (Noun)

Definition: a person or thing that has a subduing Definition: revive (someone) from
or inhibiting effect. unconsciousness or apparent death.
Synonyms: curb, check, restraint, restriction, Synonyms: bring round, revive, bring back, bring
limit, limitation (back) to life
Antonyms: spur Antonyms: bore, destroy
Usage: “this will be a damper on the liberal Usage: “an ambulance crew tried to resuscitate
agenda for the next couple of years” him”
437. Leeway (Noun) 443. Falter (Verb)

Definition: the amount of freedom to move or act Definition: lose strength or momentum.
that is available. Synonyms: hesitate, delay, drag one’s feet, stall,
Synonyms: freedom, scope, room to man oeuvre, think twice
latitude Antonyms: calm, continue, dive in, endure
Antonyms: constraint, restriction Usage: “the music faltered, stopped, and started
Usage: “the government had greater leeway to up again”
introduce reforms”
444. Reminiscent (Adjective)
438. Wilt (Verb) Definition: absorbed in or suggesting absorption
Definition: lose energy, vigour, or confidence. in memories.
Synonyms: languish, flag, lose energy, become Synonyms: evocative, suggestive, redolent,
listless remindful

40
Antonyms: forgetful, oblivious Synonyms: impromptu, extempore, extemporary,

Usage: “her expression was wistful and extemporaneous
reminiscent” Antonyms: considered, planned, premeditated,
premeditative
445. Pulsating (Verb) Usage: “the discussions were on an ad hoc basis”
Definition: be very exciting.
Synonyms: jumping, bounding, hurdling, irregular 452. Substantive (Adjective)
Antonyms: inactive Definition: having a firm basis in reality and so
Usage: “victory in a pulsating semi-final” important, meaningful, or considerable.
Synonyms: biggish, considerable, good, goodly
446. Demeanour (Noun) Antonyms: inconsequential, inconsiderable,
Definition: outward behaviour or bearing. insignificant
Synonyms: manner, air, attitude, appearance, Usage: “there is no substantive evidence for the
look efficacy of these drugs”
Antonyms: manner, bearing, carriage, mien
Usage: “his happy demeanour” 453. Insurgency (Noun)
Definition: an active revolt or uprising.
447. Vanquished (Verb) Synonyms: rebellion, revolt, revolution, rising
Definition: defeat thoroughly. Antonyms: calm, obedience, orthodoxy, peace
Synonyms: conquer, defeat (utterly), beat Usage: “rebels are waging an armed insurgency
(hollow), trounce to topple the monarchy”
Antonyms: failed, lost, released, surrendered
Usage: “he successfully vanquished his rival” 454. Anachronistic (Adjective)
Definition: belonging to a period other than that
448. Testament (Noun) being portrayed.
Definition: something that serves as a sign or Synonyms: antiquated, archaic, dated,
evidence of a specified fact, event, or quality obsolescent
Synonyms: testimony, witness, evidence Antonyms: new, fresh, latest, recent
Antonyms: disproof, contradiction Usage: “Titus’ benefits from the effective use of
Usage: “growing attendance figures are a anachronistic elements like cars and
testament to the event’s popularity” loudspeakers”
449. Flinch (Verb) 455. Retrograde (Adjective)

Definition: make a quick, nervous movement as Definition: Directed or moving backwards
an instinctive reaction to fear, pain, or surprise. Synonyms: Backward, Backwards, Reverse,
Synonyms: wince, start, shy (away), recoil Rearward
Antonyms: stand firm
Antonyms: Forward
Usage: ”she flinched at the acidity in his voice”
Usage: The Donald Trump administration’s
450. Perilous (Adjective) decision to withdraw from the Intermediate
Definition: full of danger or risk. Range Nuclear Forces (INF) treaty with Russia is
Synonyms: dangerous, fraught with danger, a retrograde step.
hazardous
Antonyms: safe, secure 456. Hostility (Noun)
Usage: “a perilous journey south” Definition: hostile behaviour; unfriendliness or
opposition.
451. Ad hoc (Noun) Synonyms: antagonism unfriendliness, bitterness
Definition: created or done for a particular Antonyms: friendliness, approval
purpose as necessary. Usage: “their hostility to all outsiders”

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
41
457. Pursuit (Noun) Usage: “the elections were annulled by the

Definition: the action of pursuing someone or general amid renewed protests”
something.
Synonyms: chasing, pursuing, stalking, tracking 464. Saner (adjective)
Antonyms: retreat, surrender Definition: (of a person) of sound mind; not mad
Usage: “the cat crouched in the grass in pursuit or mentally ill.
of a bird” Synonyms: of sound mind, right in the head, in
one’s right mind
458. Reluctance (noun) Antonyms: foolish
Definition: unwillingness or disinclination to do Usage: “hard work kept me sane”
something.
Synonyms: unwillingness, disinclination 465. Plea (Noun)
Antonyms: willingness, eagerness Definition: a request made in an urgent and
Usage: “she sensed his reluctance to continue” emotional manner.
Synonyms: appeal, entreaty, supplication,
459. Breach (noun) petition
Definition: an act of breaking or failing to observe Antonyms: answer, decision, demand
a law, agreement, or code of conduct. Usage: “he made a dramatic plea for
Synonyms: contravention, violation, breaking disarmament”
Antonyms: observance
Usage: “a breach of confidence” 466. Confiscate (Verb)
Definition: take or seize (someone’s property)
460. Contention (noun) with authority.
Definition: heated disagreement. Synonyms: impound, seize, commandeer,
Synonyms: disagreement, dispute requisition
Antonyms: agreement Antonyms: return
Usage: “the captured territory was the main area Usage: “the guards confiscated his camera”
of contention between the two countries”
467. Worrisome (Adjective)
461. Castigates (verb) Definition: causing anxiety or concern.
Definition: reprimand (someone) severely. Synonyms: worrying, daunting, alarming,
Synonyms: reprimand, rebuke, admonish, perturbing
chastise Antonyms: reassuring, encouraging, cheering
Usage: “he was castigated for not setting a good Usage: “a worrisome problem”
example”
468. Dispute (Noun)
462. Rejoice (verb) Definition: a disagreement or argument.
Definition: feel or show great joy or delight. Synonyms: debate, discussion, discourse,
Synonyms: happiness, pleasure, joy, gladness disputation
Antonyms: mourn, lament Antonyms: agreement
Usage: “we spent the evening rejoicing at our Usage: “a territorial dispute between the two
victory” countries”
463. Annul (verb) 469. Entrench (Verb)

Definition: declare invalid (an official agreement, Definition: establish (an attitude, habit, or belief)
decision, or result). so firmly that change is very difficult or unlikely.
Synonyms: declare invalid, declare null and void Synonyms: establish, settle, ensconce, lodge, set
Antonyms: restore, enact Antonyms: dislodge, superficial
Usage: “ageism is entrenched in our society”

42
470. Transition (Noun) 476. Altitude (Noun)

Definition: the process or a period of changing Definition: the height of an object or point in
from one state or condition to another. relation to sea level or ground level.
Synonyms: change, move, passage, Synonyms: height, elevation, distance above the
transformation sea/ground
Antonyms: stagnation, idleness, remission Antonyms: depth
Usage: “students in transition from one Usage: “flight data including airspeed and
program me to another” altitude”
471. Massacre (Noun) 477. Decouple (Verb)

Definition: an indiscriminate and brutal slaughter Definition: separate, disengage, or dissociate
of many people. (something) from something else.
Synonyms: slaughter, wholesale slaughter, mass Synonyms: disassociate, disconnect, disjoin,
slaughter disjoint
Antonyms: bear, create, preserve, save Antonyms: join, link, unify
Usage: “reports of massacres by government Usage: “the mountings effectively decouple
troops” movements of the engine from those of the
wheels”
472. Autonomy (Noun)
Definition: freedom from external control or 478. Snag (Noun)
influence; independence. Definition: an unexpected or hidden obstacle or
Synonyms: self-government, independence, drawback.
selfrule Synonyms: obstacle, difficulty, complication
Antonyms: subjection, dependence Antonyms: advantage, aid, assistance, benefit
Usage: “the courts enjoy a considerable degree Usage: “there’s one small snag”
of autonomy”
479. Iteration (Noun)
473. Rationale (Noun) Definition: the repetition of a process or
Definition: a set of reasons or a logical basis for a utterance.
course of action or belief. Synonyms: duplication, redo, reduplication
Synonyms: reason(s), reasoning, thinking, Antonyms: instance, original
(logical) basis Usage: Now Carter and Knight are in their third
Antonyms: discouragement, proof, reality iteration of a boy band, of sorts.
Usage: “he explained the rationale behind the
change” 480. Divergence (Noun)
Definition: the process or state of diverging.
474. Indigenous (Adjective) Synonyms: separation, dividing, parting
Definition: originating or occurring naturally in a Antonyms: meeting, confluence, junction,
particular place; native. merging
Synonyms: native, aboriginal, local Usage: “the divergence between primates and
Antonyms: expatriate, migrant, adventitious other groups”
Usage: “the indigenous peoples of Siberia”
481. Convene (Verb)
475. Velocity (Noun) Definition: Come or bring together for a meeting
Definition: (in general use) speed. or activity; assemble.
Synonyms: speed, pace, rate, tempo, momentum Synonyms: Summon, Call.
Antonyms: slowness, sluggishness, block Antonyms: Disperse
Usage: “the tank shot backwards at an incredible Usage: Meghalaya’s Conrad Sangma, who runs a
velocity” coalition government which includes the BJP,

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
43
convened the meeting in Guwahati, the region’s Usage: This rather lacklustre response to major
political hub, challenging the BJP on its own turf. ‘futuristic’ challenges to our national security
raises a larger question: is India adequately
482. Placate (Verb)
Definition: Make (someone) less angry or hostile. 487. Disruptive (Adjective)
Synonyms: Pacify, Calm, Calm Down, Appease, Definition: Causing or tending to cause
Mollify, Soothe disruption.
Antonyms: Provoke, Anger Synonyms: Innovative, Inventive, Ingenious,
Usage: Britain veers to a hard Brexit as Prime Original
Minister May continues to placate Tory Antonyms: Unimaginative, Conservative
hardliners. Usage: The arrival of these technologies might
deeply frustrate strategic stability as we know it
483. Recede (Verb) given their disruptive nature.
Definition: Go or move back or further away from
a previous position. 488. Glide (Verb)
Synonyms: Retreat, Go back, Withdraw. Definition: Move with a smooth, quiet continuous
Antonyms: Advance, Approach motion.
Usage: The prospects for Britain’s orderly Synonyms: Slide, Slip, Float and Drift
withdrawal from the European Union on March Antonyms: Hurtle
29 have receded further, even as MPs rallied to Usage: Once accuracies get better, hypersonic
stop a no-deal scenario. glide vehicles replace conventional delivery
systems.
484. Disburse (Verb)
Definition: Pay out (money from a fund). 489. Succinct (Adjective)
Synonyms: Spend, Expend Definition: (Especially of something written or
Antonyms: Claim spoken) briefly and clearly expressed.
Usage: Just a day after a 300-crore loan was Synonyms: Concise, Short, Brief, Compact,
disbursed to Videocon International Electronics Condensed, Crisp
in 2009, Mr. Kochhar’s Nupower Renewable Antonyms: Lengthy, Long-winded, Verbose
received Crore from the Videocon group. Usage: In a January 2018 article, the Economist
put it succinctly: “Disruptive new technologies,
485. Inadvertent (Adjective) worsening relations between Russia and America
Definition: Not resulting from or achieved and a less cautious Russian leadership than in
through deliberate planning. the cold war have raised fears that a new era of
Synonyms: Unintentional, Unintended, strategic instability may be approaching.”
Accidental, Unpremeditated
Antonyms: Deliberate, Intentional 490. Surreptitious (Noun)
Usage: India must be alert as there is a Definition: Kept secret, especially because it
possibility of emerging disruptive technologies would not be approved of.
prompting inadvertent conflict. Synonyms: Secret, Stealthy, Clandestine,
Secretive, Sneaky
486. Lacklustre (Adjective) Antonyms: Blatant, Open, Honest
Definition: Lacking in vitality, force, or conviction; Usage: Low wages were supplemented by
uninspired or uninspiring. surreptitious payments from tradesmen.
Synonyms: Uninspired, Uninspiring, and
Unimaginative 491. Sops (Noun)
Antonyms: Inspired, Brilliant Definition: A thing of no great value given or done
as a concession to appease someone whose
main concerns or demands are not being met.

44
Synonyms: drench, drown, soak, sodden Usage: Shifting geo-politics also requires that
Antonyms: dehumidify, Desiccate, Dry, Parch, European concerns be factored into strategic
Sear discussions on the INF, particularly because it is
Usage: The interim budget casts away Europe that is most immediately threatened by
established conventions and targets votes with the Russian stockpile.
sops.
497. Inexplicable (Adjective)
492. Expedient (Adjective) Definition: Unable to be explained or accounted
Definition: (of an action) convenient and practical for.
although possibly improper or immoral. Synonyms: Unaccountable, Unexplainable,
Synonyms: Convenient, Advantageous, Incomprehensible
Antonyms: Inexpedient, Ill-advised Antonyms: Understandable
Usage: As election-eve budgets go, Interim Usage: For some inexplicable reason her mind
Budget 2019-20 must rank as one of the most went completely blank.
politically expedient ones this country has seen.
498. Disastrous (Adjective)
493. Retaliatory (Adjective) Definition: Causing great damage.
Definition: (of an action) characterized by a Synonyms: Catastrophic, Calamitous,
desire for revenge. Cataclysmic
Synonyms: Payback, Reprisal, Requital Antonyms: Fortunate, Successful, Beneficial
Antonyms: Clemency, Grace, Leniency Usage: A disastrous fire swept through the
Usage: The U.S. response cannot be regarded as museum.
purely retaliatory.
499. Diligence (Noun)
494. Scupper (Verb) Definition: Careful and persistent work or effort.
Definition: Sink (a ship or its crew) deliberately. Synonyms: Conscientiousness, Assiduousness,
Synonyms: Sink, Scuttle, Submerge, Assiduity
Antonyms: Float, Raise Antonyms: Laziness, Carelessness
Usage: Mr. Trump, who scuppered the nuclear Usage: Few party members challenge his
agreement with Iran, has hinted he would refuse diligence as an MP.
to abide by a treaty that other parties were
disregarding. 500. Faction (Noun)
Definition: Dissension within an organization.
495. Steam (Verb) Synonyms: Infighting, Dissension, Dissent,
Definition: Come, go, or move somewhere rapidly Dispute,
or in a forceful way. Antonyms: Harmony
Synonyms: Run, Sprint, Race, Dart, Rush, Dash, Usage: Most of the convicts belong to a faction
Antonyms: Dawdle of the National Democratic Front of Boroland, of
Usage: In 2018, the U.S. Nuclear Posture Review which Daimary is the chairman.
noted that Beijing was steaming forward with the
expansion of its cruise-missile arsenal. 501. Espouse (Verb)
Definition: Adopt or support (a cause, belief, or
496. Stockpile (Noun) way of life).
Definition: Accumulate a large stock of (goods or Synonyms: Adopt, Embrace,
materials). Antonyms: Reject, Oppose
Synonyms: Amass, Accumulate, Hoard, Cache, Usage: These groups and their predecessors,
Collect, Gather many of which have given up arms and joined the
Antonyms: Cast, Discard, Ditch, Dump formal political process, espouse causes ranging

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
45
from secession to a Bodoland State carved out Banerjee once again demonstrated that she is
of Assam. prone to taking arguments over administrative
procedures to the streets.
502. Hamstrung (Verb)
Definition: Severely restrict the efficiency or 507. Burnish (Verb)
effectiveness of. Definition: Polish (something, especially metal)
Synonyms: Handicap, Constrain, Restrict, Cripple by rubbing.
Antonyms: Help Synonyms: Shine, Brighten
Usage: The Bodo case for statehood is also Antonyms: Dull
hamstrung by the fact that non-Bodos account Usage: A decade ago, she burnished her
for nearly 70% of the population in the Bodoland credentials as the Opposition leader who would
Territorial Area Districts that will comprise the dethrone the Left Front combine in West Bengal
core of such a State. with her agitation over the Singur land
acquisition.
503. Ebb (Verb)
Definition: (of an emotion or quality) gradually 508. Intricate (Adjective)
decrease. Definition: Very complicated or detailed.
Synonyms: Diminish, Dwindle, Wane Synonyms: Complex, Complicated, Convoluted,
Antonyms: Increase, Intensify, Intensification Tangled Antonyms: Simple, Straightforward
Usage: The violent phase peaked in the late Usage: This makes for good political sense when
1980s and early 1990s, but ebbed with the we remember that most human activity is
creation of the Bodoland Territorial Council in structured by systems of rules — take the
2003. intricate and rule- bound game of chess or
cricket.
504. Agnostic (Noun)
Definition: A person who believes that nothing is 509. Abjure (Verb)
known or can be known of the existence or Definition: Solemnly renounce (a belief, cause, or
nature of God. claim).
Synonyms: Sceptic, Doubter, Questioner Synonyms: Renounce, Relinquish, Reject,
Antonyms: Believer, Theist Antonyms: Acknowledge, Admit, Affirm
Usage: Along with ideologically agnostic Usage: The Taliban has not abjured violence, or
partnerships with the State government in sworn allegiance to the Afghan constitution
Dispur, this is the way forward for now. before joining talks.
505. Impromptu (Adjective) 510. Adjunct (Verb)

Definition: Done without being planned or Definition: A thing added to something else as a
rehearsed. supplementary rather than an essential part.
Synonyms: Unrehearsed, Unprepared, Unscripted Synonyms: Supplement, Addition,
and Extempore Accompaniment
Antonyms: Prepared, Rehearsed Usage: Computer technology is an adjunct to
Usage: An impromptu press conference learning.
506. Obstruct (Verb) 511. Appeasement (Noun)

Definition: Block (an opening, path, road, etc.); be Definition: The action or process of appeasing.
or get in the way of. Synonyms: Conciliation, Placation, Pacification,
Synonyms: Impede, Hinder Propitiation
Antonyms: Facilitate, Help, Further Antonyms: Provocation, Aggression
Usage: However, in attempting to obstruct the Usage: The charge stems from a lineage of
CBI action in a court-ordered investigation, Ms. propaganda invented by the Bharatiya Janata

46
Party (BJP), which holds the Congress guilty of Synonyms: Brutal, Ferocious, Savage, Violent
the cynical politics of Muslim appeasement. Antonyms: Gentle, Kindly, Benevolent
Usage: A vicious assault
512. Superfluity (Noun)
Definition: An unnecessarily or excessively large 518. Estrangement (Noun)
amount or number of something. Definition: The fact of no longer being on friendly
Synonyms: Surplus, Excess, Overabundance terms or part of a social group.
Antonyms: Lack, Shortage Synonyms: Alienation, Turning Away,
Usage: Minority representation was discussed at Antagonism, Antipathy, Disaffection,
length and set aside as a superfluity. Antonyms: Unity, Reconciliation
Usage: Equally important, the spectacular rise of
513. Incipient (Adjective) Hindutva or Hindu nationalism from the 1990s
Definition: Beginning to happen or develop. has had a major psychological impact on a
Synonyms: Rowing, Emerging, Emergent, section of Muslim youth, prompting their
Dawning; estrangement from the national mainstream.
Antonyms: Full-blown
Usage: In the real world of dislocation and 519. Macabre (Adjective)
trauma, Partition witnessed a number of local Definition: Disturbing because concerned with or
vigilante efforts to inscribe a narrower identity on causing a fear of death.
the incipient nation. Synonyms: Gruesome, Grisly, Grim, Gory, Morbid
Usage: The Hashimpura massacre in Uttar
514. Hegemony Pradesh by members of the Provincial Armed
Definition: Leadership or dominance, especially Constabulary in 1987 was the most macabre
by one state or social group over others. example of such incidents.
Synonyms: Leadership, Dominance, Dominion,
Supremacy 520. Aberration (Noun)
Antonyms: Self-government Definition: A departure from what is normal,
Usage: Germany was united under Prussian usual, or expected, typically an unwelcome one
hegemony after 1871. Synonyms: Anomaly, Deviation, Divergence,
Abnormality
515. Enamour (Verb) Antonyms: Mind, Saneness, Sanity
Definition: Be filled with love for. Usage: Until the 1990s the vast majority of
Synonyms: In love with, Infatuated with, Besotted Indian Muslims treated such occurrences as
with aberrations and their belief in the secular and
Antonyms: Indifferent to non-discriminatory character of the Indian state
Usage: It is not difficult to see why Edward is remained unshaken.
enamoured of her
521. Galling (Adjective)
516. Appetite (Noun) Definition: Causing annoyance or resentment;
Definition: A strong desire or liking for annoying.
something. Synonyms: Annoying, Irritating, Vexing, Vexatiou
Synonyms: Craving, Longing, Yearning, Antonyms: Pleasing
Hankering, Usage: What was most galling was the Central
Antonyms: Aversion government’s apathy in the face of this brazen
Usage: We live in a world where appetite for news act of mob violence despite the fact that it had
is incessant and the news cycle is very short. been forewarned.
517. Vicious (Adjective) 522. Thrive (Verb)

Definition: Deliberately cruel or violent. Definition: Prosperous and growing; flourishing.

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
47
Synonyms: Flourish, Prosper, Synonyms: Antagonistic, Aggressive,

Antonyms: Decline, Wither, Fail, Stagnate Confrontational
Usage: The death of more than 100 people to Antonyms: Friendly, Mild
toxic alcohol in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand Usage: Tehran will have to deal with the U.S.’s
has exposed the thriving sale of illicit liquor in unilateral and hostile policies with help from
the region. other countries.
523. Staggering (Adjective) 528. Despotic (Adjective)

Definition: Deeply shocking; Astonishing. Definition: of or typical of a despot; tyrannical.
Synonyms: Astonish, Amaze, Nonplus, Startle, Synonyms: Autocratic, Dictatorial, Totalitarian,
Antonyms: Unimpressive, Uninspiring, Authoritarian
Unremarkable Antonyms: Democratic, Accountable
Usage: It took this staggering number of Usage: It is also time for the government, which
casualties for the authorities to acknowledge the is celebrating the anniversary of the fall of a
presence of free-flowing illicit liquor. despotic monarch, to rethink its approach
towards dissent and personal freedoms.
524. Conspiracy (Noun)
Definition: A secret plan by a group to do 529. Reconcile (Verb)
something unlawful or harmful. Definition: Restore friendly relations between.
Synonyms: plot, scheme, stratagem Synonyms: Reunite
Antonyms: Faithfulness, Honesty, Ignorance Antonyms: Estrange, Alienate
Usage: It has tried to put the blame for previous Usage: Unable to reconcile himself to the failure
incidents on political opponents hatching to wrest Karnataka from the grip of the Congress
conspiracies. in last year’s Assembly election, the BJP
strongman is adopting desperate measures to
525. Dissent (Noun) get another shot at becoming Chief Minister.
Definition: The holding or expression of opinions
at variance with those commonly or officially 530. Veracity (Noun)
held. Definition: Conformity to facts; accuracy.
Synonyms: Disagreement, argument, dispute, Synonyms: Truthfulness, Truth, Accuracy
demur Antonyms: Falsity
Antonyms: Agreement, Acceptance Usage: The H.D. Kumaraswamy government has
Usage: The Iranian regime must rethink its now announced the appointment of a Special
approach to dissent and personal freedoms Investigation Team (SIT) to go into the veracity
of an audio clip in which someone is heard
526. Defiant (Adjective) offering money and minister ship to win the
Definition: Showing defiance. support of a Janata Dal (Secular) MLA.
Synonyms: Intransigent, Resistant, Obstinate,
Uncooperative 531. Credence (Noun)
Antonyms: Apologetic, Cooperative Definition: Belief in or acceptance of something
Usage: The theocratic regime, established by as true.
Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in 1979, struck a Synonyms: Acceptance, Belief, Faith, Trust,
defiant note by mobilising a huge rally in Tehran Confidence
and repeating its familiar anti-West rhetoric. Usage: Accusations that the BJP was trying to
buy up dissidents in the Congress have now
527. Hostile (Adjective) gained credence.
Definition: Showing or feeling opposition or
dislike; unfriendly. 532. Destabilize (Verb)

48
Definition: Upset the stability of (a region or violation of well-entrenched behavioural patterns

system); cause unrest or instability in. are causing irreversible damage to the polity.
Synonyms: Undermine, Weaken, Impair, Damage,
Subvert 537. Persuasion (Noun)
Antonyms: Strengthen, Shore up Definition: The action or process of persuading
Usage: The wiser course for the BJP would have someone or of being persuaded to do or believe
been to politically capitalise on the internal something.
contradictions of the coalition government rather Synonyms: Coercion, Inducement, Convincing,
than resort to covert means to destabilise it. Blandishment
Antonyms: Fact, Truth
533. Coercion (Noun) Usage: As Opposition parties of different
Definition: The action or practice of persuading persuasions are beginning to stitch together a
someone to do something by using force or motley coalition.
threats.
Synonyms: Force, Compulsion, Constraint, 538. Motley (Adjective)
Duress Definition: Incongruously varied in appearance or
Antonyms: Persuasion character; disparate.
Usage: The logic is simple: in a pluralist Synonyms: Miscellaneous, Disparate, Diverse,
democracy, no one set of ideas can set itself up Assorted
as the universal truth, and enforce its position Antonyms: Homogeneous, Uniform
through coercion. Usage: A motley crew of discontents and zealots.
534. Incitement (Noun) 539. Authoritarian (Adjective)

Definition: The action of provoking unlawful Definition: Favouring or enforcing strict
behaviour or urging someone to behave obedience to authority at the expense of personal
unlawfully. freedom.
Synonyms: Urging, Motivation, Persuasion, Synonyms: Autocratic, Dictatorial, Totalitarian,
Inducement Despotic
Antonyms: Suppression, Discouragement
Usage: The Indian Supreme Court’s “incitement 540. Antonyms: Democratic, Liberal, Lenient,
to violence” standard responds to this basic Permissive
insight about civil liberties in a democracy. Usage: Across the world, democracy is in obvious
retreat, with authoritarian tendencies on the
535. Vilify (Verb) ascendant.
Definition: Speak or write about in an abusively
disparaging manner. 541. Awry (Adjective)
Synonyms: Disparage, Denigrate, Defame Definition: Out of the normal or correct position;
Antonyms: Commend, Lionize askew.
Usage: He has been vilified in the press. Synonyms: Askew, Crooked, Lopsided, Uneven,
Asymmetrical,
536. Disdain (Noun) Antonyms: Straight, Symmetrical
Definition: The feeling that someone or Usage: At the same time, there are enough
something is unworthy of one's consideration or examples of democracy going awry. Brexit, and
respect. the Brexit debate, in the U.K. and Europe is a
Synonyms: Contempt, Scorn, good example.
Antonyms: Admiration, Respect
Usage: In a pluralistic, multi-party federal system 542. Vituperative (Adjective)
disdain for democratic conventions and the Definition: Bitter and abusive.

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
49
Synonyms: Abusive, Contumelious, Invective, Antonyms: Balanced, Certain, Confident

Opprobrious Usage: "The car had a wobbly wheel"
Antonyms: Moderate, Temperate
Usage: Currently, we are witnessing vituperative 548. Acrimony (Noun)
exchanges between the Prime Minister and some Definition: Bitterness or ill feeling.
Chief Ministers which involve accusations such Synonyms: Bitterness, Rancour, Resentment, Ill
as fomenting riots and running extortion rackets. feeling, Ill will, Bad blood.
Antonyms: Good will, Love, Benevolence
543. Trivial (adjective) Usage: "The AGM dissolved into acrimony".
Definition: Of little value or importance.
Synonyms: Unimportant, insignificant, 549. Abide (Verb)
inconsequential, minor Definition: Accept or act in accordance with (a
Antonyms: Big, consequential, eventful, rule, decision, or recommendation).
important, major, material. Synonyms: Comply with, Obey, Observe, Follow,
Usage: "Huge fines were imposed for trivial Keep to.
offences" Antonyms: Flout, Reject.
Usage: "I said I would abide by their decision"
544. Exigencies (Noun)
Definition: An urgent need or demand. 550. Federalism (noun)
Synonyms: Need, demand, requirement, want. Definition: the federal principle or system of
Antonyms: Ease, Easiness, ordinariness. government.
Usage: "Women worked long hours when the Synonyms: Unionism, Unitarianism,
exigencies of the family economy demanded it". Republicanism
Antonyms: Antifederalism
545. Engulfed (Verb) Usage: "Idealists who were committed to
Definition: (of a natural force) sweep over European federalism"
(something) so as to surround or cover it
completely. 551. Inherent (Adjective)
Synonyms: Inundate, Flood, Deluge, Immerse, Definition: Existing in something as a permanent,
Swamp essential, or characteristic attribute.
Antonyms: Deluge, Drown, Flood, Gulf, Inundate, Synonyms: Intrinsic, Innate, Immanent, Built-In,
Overflow. Inborn, Ingrained
Usage: "The cafe was engulfed in flames" Antonyms: Adventitious, Extraneous, Extrinsic
Usage: "Any form of mountaineering has its
546. Panders (Verb) inherent dangers"
Definition: gratify or indulge (an immoral or
distasteful desire or taste or a person with such a 552. Conflict (Noun)
desire or taste). Definition: A serious disagreement or argument,
Synonyms: Indulge, Gratify, Satisfy, Cater to, Give typically a protracted one.
in to Synonyms: Dispute, Quarrel, Squabble,
Antonyms: Anger, Annoy, Disappoint, Disturb Disagreement
Usage: "Newspapers are pandering to people's Antonyms: Agreement
baser instincts" Usage: This round of conflict between
Puducherry Chief Minister V. Narayanasamy and
547. Wobbly (Adjective) Lt. Governor Kiran Bedi has been more serious
Definition: tending to move unsteadily from side than those in the past.
to side.
Synonyms: Unsteady, Unstable, Shaky, Rocky, 553. Stand-off (Noun)
Rickety

50
Definition: A deadlock between two equally Definition: The quality of being honest and
matched opponents in a dispute or conflict. having strong moral principles.
Synonyms: Deadlock, Stalemate, Impasse, Synonyms: Honesty, Uprightness, Probity,
Standstill Rectitude
Usage: The trigger for the latest stand-off seems Antonyms: Dishonesty
to have been Ms. Bedi’s move to enforce the rule Usage: For the governing Socialist Party has, no
for two-wheeler riders to wear helmets. less than the conservative People’s Party,
consistently regarded the Catalonian demand for
554. Enhance (Verb) separation as a violation of the integrity of the
Definition: Intensify, increase, or further improve Spanish union.
the quality, value, or extent of.
Synonyms: Increase, Add to, Intensify, Magnify, 559. Secessionist (Noun)
Amplify Definition: a person who thinks that a nation,
Antonyms: Diminish, Mar state, etc., should separate from another and
Usage: He lists the blocking of welfare schemes become independent
such as the free rice scheme and enhanced Synonyms: Separationist, Separatist
scholarship for Scheduled Caste students, Usage: Meanwhile, a recent government proposal
among other actions of the L-G, as the real to appoint a rapporteur to negotiate with the
issues. secessionists has been condemned as a betrayal
by the conservatives.
555. Prevail (Verb)
Definition: Prove more powerful or superior. 560. Status quo (Noun)
Synonyms: Conquer, Triumph, Win Definition: The existing state of affairs, especially
Antonyms: Collapse, Fail, Flop regarding social or political issues.
Usage: At the same time, any difference of Synonyms: Normalcy, Normality
opinion between them can be referred to the Antonyms: Irregularity, Uncommonness,
President, and in the meantime the Unusualness
Administrator’s action prevails on any urgent Usage: The entry of the extreme right Vox party
matter. to the Andalusian legislature has unsettled that
status quo.
556. Fragment (Verb)
Definition: Break or cause to break into 561. Strapped (Adjective)
fragments. Definition: Short of money.
Synonyms: Broken, Busted, Fractured, Shattered Synonyms: Shortfall, scarcity, deficit, dept
Antonyms: Unbroken, Fixed, Healed, Mended Antonyms: Surplus, Profit.
Usage: The snap poll called for April 28 by Usage: For a government strapped for finances
Spain’s minority Socialist Party government and struggling to meet the revised fiscal deficit
could deepen the fissures in the fragmented target of 3.4% of GDP, the RBI’s largesse will be
polity. handy.
557. Prop (up) (Verb) 562. Stubborn (Adjective)

Definition: To hold up or serve as a foundation for Definition: Having or showing dogged
Synonyms: Bear, Bolster, Brace, Buttressy determination not to change one's attitude or
Antonyms: Balk, Bar, Block, Constrain position on something, especially in spite of good
Usage: It was propped up last June by Catalan arguments or reasons
separatist parties, which were bound to turn into to do so.
a liability for Mr. Sánchez. Synonyms: Obstinate, Mulish, Headstrong, Wilful
Antonyms: Compliant, Docile
558. Integrity (Noun)

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
51
Usage: Custodial torture is global, old and country where there is reason to believe they will
stubborn. be tortured (refoulement)”.
563. Numb (Adjective) 568. Subterfuge (Noun)

Definition: (of a part of the body) deprived of the Definition: Deceit used in order to achieve one's
power of physical sensation. goal.
Synonyms: Desensitized, Insensible, Insensate, Synonyms: Trickery, Intrigue, Deviousness,
Senseless Evasion, Deceit,
Antonyms: Sensitive, Responsive Antonyms: Honesty, Openness
Usage: Ancient Japanese methods of torture Usage: He had to use subterfuge and bluff on
numb the human imagination. many occasions.
564. Pinnacle (Noun) 569. Swerve (Verb)

Definition: The most successful point; the Definition: To depart abruptly from a straight line
culmination. or course
Synonyms: Peak, Height, Apex, Vertex, Zenith, Synonyms: Break, Cut, Sheer
Apogee Antonyms: Straighten
Antonyms: Nadir, Trough Usage: The government did not hesitate to
Usage: In Greece, the pinnacle of culture, swerve from the path of rectitude to finance an
Socrates was in 399 BCE sentenced to death by income support programme for farmers in an
hemlock, which was known to act slowly, election year.
incapacitating the person in stages, climbing
from the lower extremities limb by limb to the 570. Rectitude (Noun)
heart. Definition: Morally correct behaviour or thinking;
righteousness.
565. Ephemeral (Adjective) Synonyms: Righteousness, Goodness, Virtue
Definition: Lasting for a very short time. Antonyms: Infamy, Dishonesty Usage: Mattie is a
Synonyms: Transitory, Transient, Fleeting, model of rectitude
Passing.
Antonyms: Long-lived, Permanent 571. Alacrity (Noun)
Usage: Fashions are ephemeral: new ones Definition: Brisk and cheerful readiness.
regularly drive out the old. Synonyms: Eagerness, Willingness, Readiness
Antonyms: Apathy
566. Revulsion (Noun) Usage: The consequent loss of long-run output
Definition: Sense of disgust and loathing. for the economy, is the basis of the argument
Synonyms: Disgust, Repulsion, Abhorrence, that public policy must respond with alacrity to
Repugnance, Nausea growing unemployment.
Antonyms: Delight, Liking
Usage: If torture is real, human revulsion with 572. Impervious (Adjective)
torture is also real. And it has shape, definition. It Definition: Not allowing fluid to pass through.
has scope. Synonyms: Impermeable, Impenetrable,
Impregnable
567. Forbid (verb) Antonyms: Permeable
Definition: Refuse to allow (something). Usage: The economic, as opposed to the political,
Synonyms: Prohibit, Ban, Outlaw, message is that the recent history of
Antonyms: Permit unemployment has been impervious to the
Usage: More specifically, it “required states to political formation governing India.
take effective measures to prevent torture and
forbade them from transporting people to any 573. Incongruous (Adjective)

52
Definition: Not in harmony or keeping with the Synonyms: Uncertain, Insecure, Unreliable, and
surroundings or other aspects of something. Unsure
Synonyms: Inappropriate, Unsuitable, Unsuited. Antonyms: Safe, Secure
Antonyms: Appropriate, Harmonious Usage: He made a precarious living as a painter.
Usage: The duffel coat looked incongruous with
the black dress she wore underneath. 579. Claimant (Noun)
Definition: A person making a claim, especially in
574. Testify (Verb) a lawsuit or for a state benefit.
Definition: Serve as evidence or proof that Synonyms: Applicant, Candidate
something exists or is the case. Usage: Obviously, a claim in the context of the
Synonyms: Confirm, Evidence, Prove, above-mentioned Act is based on an assertion
Corroborate, Substantiate that a claimant has been in possession of a
Antonyms: Belie Usage: The bleak lines testify to certain parcel of land located in the forest areas.
inner torment
580. Negate (Noun)
575. Conducive (Adjective) Definition: Make ineffective; nullify.
Definition: Making a certain situation or outcome Synonyms: Invalidate, Nullify
likely or possible. Antonyms: Confirm, Support, Validate
Synonyms: Good for, Helpful to, Instrumental in Usage: Alcohol negates the effects of the drug.
Antonyms: Unfavourable
Usage: In a democracy, it is left to elected 581. Vulnerable (Adjective)
representatives whether to pursue Definition: Exposed to the possibility of being
macroeconomic policies conducive to the attacked or harmed, either physically or
generation of employment. emotionally.
Synonyms: Endangered, Unsafe, and Unprotected
576. Dampener (Noun) Antonyms: Invulnerable, Resilient
Definition: A thing that has a restraining or Usage: We were in a vulnerable position.
subduing effect.
Synonyms: Complainer, Grouch, Moaner and 582. Tenable (Adjective)
Pessimist Definition: Able to be maintained or defended
Usage: The language on terrorism in the joint against attack or objection.
statement was something of a dampener for Synonyms: Defensible, Justifiable,
those who would have hoped there would be Antonyms: Indefensible, Untenable
stronger condemnation of the terror attack in Usage: Such a simplistic approach is no longer
Pulwama. tenable.
577. Embrace (Verb) 583. Pertain (Verb)

Definition: Accept (a belief, theory, or change) Definition: Be appropriate, related, or applicable
willingly and enthusiastically. to.
Synonyms: Welcome and Accept Synonyms: Concern, Relate to, be Related to
Antonyms: Reject Usage: Developments pertaining to the economy.
Usage: At the leadership level, Mr. Modi extended
more than a personal touch to the visit by going 584. Condemn (Verb)
to the airport and embracing the Crown Prince on Definition: Express complete disapproval of;
landing. censure.
Synonyms: Censure, Criticize, Castigate, Attack
578. Precarious (Adjective) Antonyms: Praise, Commend
Definition: Not securely held or in position; Usage: The global terror finance watchdog
dangerously likely to fall or collapse. condemned.

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
53
585. Weaponry (Noun) Usage: In fact, in the past there have been
Definition: Weapons regarded collectively. several cases of politicians acting in cahoots
Synonyms: Ammunition, Arms, Defense with the operators of fraudulent deposit
Usage: Terror entities do not travel out of the schemes.
country, or have access to funding or weaponry.
591. Inalienable (Adjective)
586. Affluent (Adjective) Definition: Not subject to being taken away from
Definition: (especially of a group or area) having or given away by the possessor.
a great deal of money; wealthy. Synonyms: Inviolable, Absolute, Sacrosanct, and
Synonyms: Wealthy, Rich, Prosperous, Opulent Unchallengeable
Antonyms: Poor, Impoverished Usage: The shareholders have the inalienable
Usage: The savings of low-income Indian right to dismiss directors
households have traditionally remained
unprotected by the government when compared 592. Vainglorious (Adjective)
to those of the more affluent economic groups. Definition: Having too high an opinion of oneself
Synonyms: Assured, Bigheaded, Complacent,
587. Promulgate (Verb) Conceited
Definition: Promote or make widely known (an Antonyms: Egoless, Humble, Modest,
idea or cause). Uncomplacent
Synonyms: Publicize, Spread, Communicate, Usage: The truth is, in today’s interconnected
Propagate world, it is vainglorious to expect countries to
Antonyms: Conceal, Hush (up), Silence, Suppress join a unilateral plan for isolation.
Usage: President Ram Nath Kovind has
promulgated the Banning of Unregulated Deposit 593. Rectify (Verb)
Schemes Ordinance. Definition: Put right; correct.
Synonyms: Correct, Right, Amend, and Revise
588. Miscreant (Noun) Antonyms: Damage, Harm, Hurt, Impair
Definition: A person who has done something Usage: Let me get the store manager, and heʼll
wrong or unlawful. rectify the invoice for your order. Editorial 27 –
Synonyms: Criminal, Culprit, Wrongdoer, 02 – 2019
Malefactor,
Antonyms: Innocent, Saint 594. Utterance (Noun)
Usage: These unregulated schemes have also Definition: A spoken word, statement, or vocal
been misused by some miscreants. sound.
Synonyms: Remark, Comment, Word, Expression
589. Swindle (Verb) Usage: The latter is manifest in New Delhi’s
Definition: Use deception to deprive (someone) of diplomatic utterances.
money or possessions.
Synonyms: Defraud, Cheat, Trick, Fleece 595. Retaliate (Verb)
Antonyms: Frankness, Honesty, Openness Definition: To punish in kind the wrongdoer
Usage: Some miscreants to swindle the money of responsible for
depositors with the promise of unbelievably high Synonyms: Avenge, Redress, Requite
returns in a short period of time. Antonyms: Absolve, Condone, Excuse
Usage: This strike was carried out in Pakistani
590. Cahoots (Noun) territory, not in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, the
Definition: Colluding or conspiring together theatre for retaliatory action in the past.
secretly.
Synonyms: Conniving, Collaborating 596. Obviate (Verb)
Antonyms: Divided, Separate, Uncoordinated Definition: Remove (a need or difficulty).

54
Synonyms: Preclude, Prevent, Remove 602. Unison (Noun)

Usage: It could continue to deny that the Indian Definition: The state of being of one opinion
strike caused any damage on the ground, and about something.
obviate the need for retaliatory strikes. Synonyms: Accord, Agreement, Concurrence,
Concurrency
597. Deterrent (Noun) Antonyms: Discord, Dissension
Definition: A thing that discourages or is intended Usage: Newspapers have in unison supported the
to discourage someone from doing something. government, and citizens, from actors to
Synonyms: Disincentive, Discouragement, cricketers.
Dissuasion
Antonyms: Incentive, Encouragement 603. Bully (Noun)
Usage: In the long term, building strong counter- Definition: A person who habitually seeks to harm
terror defences, partnering with its own citizens or intimidate those whom they perceive as
to gather intelligence, and creating deterrents will vulnerable.
be key. Synonyms: Persecutor, Oppressor, Tyrant,
Tormentor
598. Jeopardize (Verb) Usage: He smiled sadly and said, “Churchill was a
Definition: Put (someone or something) into a bully.
situation in which there is a danger of loss, harm,
or failure. 604. Paranoid (Adjective)
Synonyms: Threaten, Endanger, Imperil, Menace, Definition: Unreasonably or obsessively anxious,
Risk suspicious, or mistrustful.
Antonyms: Safeguard Synonyms: Over-suspicious, Paranoiac,
Usage Mauritius has made it clear that it does Suspicious, Mistrustful
not intend to jeopardise the future of the military Usage: People take loyalty literally and become
base. paranoid.
599. Thrash (Verb) 605. Surreal (Adjective)

Definition: Beat (a person or animal) repeatedly Definition: Having the qualities of surrealism;
and violently with a stick or whip. bizarre.
Synonyms: Hit, Beat, Flog, Whip, Horsewhip Synonyms: unreal, Bizarre, Unusual, Weird
Usage: When it lost this, London questioned the Antonyms: Commonsense, Sane, Sensible, Sober
court’s jurisdiction and Mauritius’s version of Usage: There is a sense of solidarity with the
how the deal had been thrashed out. ruling regime which is surreal.
600. Erupt (Verb) 606. Untarnished (Adjective)

Definition: Break out suddenly and dramatically. Definition: Not spoiled or damaged.
Synonyms: Break out, Flare up, Blow up, Boil over Synonyms: Unsullied, Unblemished, and
Antonyms: Die down Untainted
Usage: Fierce fighting erupted between the army Antonyms: Tarnished
and guerrillas Usage: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was
encrusted with doubts a week before, appears
601. Topple (Verb) like an untarnished hero.
Definition: Overbalance or cause to overbalance
and fall. 607. Cynicism (Noun)
Synonyms: Fall, Tumble, Overturn, Overbalance Definition: An inclination to believe that people
Antonyms: Get up, Rise, are motivated purely by self-interest; scepticism.
Usage: American invasion of Iraq toppled him Synonyms: Scepticism, Doubt, Distrust, Mistrust
and buried his regime. Antonyms: Optimism

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
55
Usage: Even the cynicism around these attitudes 610. Brutality (Noun)
is ignored. Definition: Savage physical violence; great
cruelty.
608. Aghast (Adjective) Synonyms: Savagery, Cruelty
Definition: Filled with fear or dread Antonyms: Gentleness, Kindness
Synonyms: Affrighted, Afraid, Alarmed, Fearful Usage: We can talk with ease about Pakistani
Antonyms: Adventuresome, Adventurous, belligerency, about militarism in Pakistan, but we
Audacious refuse to reflect on our own brutality in Kashmir
Usage: One watches aghast as India turns war or Manipur.
into a feud, indifferent to a wider conflagration.
611. Intimidation (Noun)
609. Hysterical (Adjective) Definition: The action of intimidating someone, or
Definition: Affected by or deriving from wildly the state of being intimidated.
uncontrolled emotion. Synonyms: Frightening, Menacing, Terrifying,
Synonyms: Overwrought, Emotional, Antonyms: Cheer, Comfort, Console
Uncontrolled, and Uncontrollable Usage: The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a
Antonyms: Calm, Self – possessed petition seeking directions to educational
Usage: The whole country lives from event to institutions to protect Kashmiris in the face of
event and TV becomes hysterical, not knowing harassment and intimidation in various parts of
the difference between war and cricket. the country after the ghastly terror attack in
Pulwama on February 14.

56
Comprehensive list of day to day Vocabulary
day Vocabulary
Day Vocabulary
day to
Comprehensive List of Day to
02
A
1. Abase - Lower; Degrade; Humiliate; Make 27. Absolute - Complete; Totally Unlimited;
Humble; Having Complete Power; Certain; Not
2. Abash - Embarrass Relative;
3. Abate - Subside Or Moderate 28. Absolve - Pardon (An Offense)
4. Abbreviate -Shorten 29. Abstain - Refrain; Withhold From
5. Abdicate - Renounce; Give Up (Position, Participation; Intentionally Not Use One’S
Right, Or Responsibility) Vote
6. Aberrant - Abnormal Or Deviant 30. Abstemious - Sparing In Eating And
7. Aberration - D eviation From The Normal; Drinking; Temperate
Mental Disorder 31. Abstinence - Restraint From Pleasant
8. Abet - Assist Usually In Doing Something Things, Esp. Eating Or Drinking; Cf.
Wrong; Encourage Abstention Act
9. Abeyance - Suspended Action 32. Abstract - Theoretical; Not Concrete;
10. Abhor - Detest; Hate Nonrepresentational
11. Abide - Dwell; Abide By Comply With; Put Up 33. Abstruse - Obscure; Profound; Difficult To
With; Tolerate; Understand
12. Abject - (Of A Condition) Wretched; As Low 34. Abundance - Largeness Of Space
As Possible; Lacking Pride; Very Humble 35. Abusive- Coarsely Insulting; Physically
13. Abjure - Renounce Upon Oath Harmful
14. Ablution - Washing 36. Abut - Border Upon; Adjoin
15. Abnegation - Renunciation; Self-Sacrifice; 37. Abysmal - Bottomless
Self-Abnegation 38. Abyss - Enormous Chasm; Vast Bottomless
16. Abode - Dwelling Place; Home Pit
17. Abolish - Cancel; Put An End To 39. Academic - Related To A School; Not
18. Abominable - Detestable; Extremely - Practical Or Directly Useful
Unpleasant 40. Accede - Agree
19. Abominate - Loathe; Hate 41. Accelerate - Move Faster
20. Aboriginal - Being The First Of Its Kind In A 42. Accessible - Easy To Approach; Obtainable
Region; Primitive; Native; Indigenous; 43. Accessory - Additional Object; Useful But
21. Abortive - Unsuccessful; Fruitless Not Essential Thing
22. Abrasive - Rubbing Away; Tending To Grind 44. Acclaim - Applaud; Praise; Greet With Great
Down Approval; Announce With Great Approval
23. Abridge - Condense Or Shorten 45. Acclimate - Adjust To Climate Or
24. Abrogate - Abolish Environment; Adapt
25. Abscission - Cutting Off; Separation 46. Acclivity - Sharp Upslope Of A Hill; Op.
26. Abscond - Depart Secretly And Hide Declivity
47. Accolade - Award Of Merit; Strong Praise
And Approval

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
57
48. Accommodate - - Oblige Or Help Someone; 77. Addle - Make Or Become Confused; Muddle;
Adjust Or Bring Into Harmony Drive Crazy; Become Rotten (Egg)
49. Accomplice - Partner In Crime 78. Address - Direct A Speech To; Speak To;
50. Accord - Agreement Deal With Or Discuss
51. Accost - Approach And Speak First To A 79. Adept - Expert At; Very Skilled
Person 80. Adhere - Stick Fast; Be A Devoted Follower;
52. Accouter - Equip; N. Accoutrement N. Adhesion Adhering; Devotion; Loyalty
53. Accretion - Growth Or Increase In Size By 81. Adherent - Supporter; Follower
Gradual Addition; Growth; Increase; 82. Adjacent - Adjoining; Neighboring; Close By
54. Accrue - Come To One As A Gain; Adjoin Be Next To
Accumulate Over Time; Come About By 83. Adjourn - Suspend Until A Later Time; Move
Addition; From One Place To Another
55. Acerbity - Bitterness Of Speech And 84. Adjunct - Something Attached To But
Temper; Adj. Acerbic Bitter; Holding An Inferior Position
56. Acetic - Vinegary 85. Adjuration - Solemn Urging; V. Adjure
57. Acidulous - Slightly Sour (In Taste Or Entreat Earnestly; Enjoin Solemnly
Manner); Sharp; Caustic 86. Adjutant - Staff Officer Assisting The
58. Acme - Peak; Pinnacle; Highest Point Commander; Assistant
59. Acne - Skin Disease (On The Face) 87. Admonish - Warn Or Speak To With Gentle
60. Acoustics - Science Of Sound; Quality That Disapproval; Reprove
Makes A Room Easy Or Hard To Hear In 88. Adore - Love Deeply And Respect Highly
61. Acquiesce - Assent; Agree Passively; 89. Adorn - Decorate
Comply Without Protest 90. Adroit - Skillful (In Using Mind Or Hand)
62. Acquittal - Deliverance From A Charge; V. 91. Adulation - Flattery; Admiration That Is
Acquit Free From A Charge Or Accusation More Than Is Necessary Or Deserved
63. Acrid - Bitter (To The Taste Or Smell); Sharp; 92. Adulterate - Make Impure Or Of Poorer
Bitterly Pungent Quality By Adding Inferior
64. Acrimonious - Stinging; Caustic; Bitter In 93. Advent - Arrival
Words Or Manner; N. Acrimony Bitter Ill- 94. Adventitious - Accidental; Casual;
Natured Happening By Chance
65. Acrophobia - Fear Of Heights 95. Adversary - Opponent; Enemy
66. Actuarial - Calculating; Pertaining To 96. Adverse - Going Against; Opposing;
Insurance Statistics Unfavorable; Hostile
67. Actuary - Someone Who Advises Insurance 97. Adversity - Great Hardship Or Affliction;
Companies Misfortune; Calamitous Event
68. Actuate - Motivate; Activate; Cause To Act 98. Advert - Refer
69. Acuity - Sharpness (Of Mind Or Senses Of 99. Advocacy - Support; Active Pleading On
Sight Or Hearing) Behalf Of Someone Or Something
70. Acumen - Mental Keenness; Sharpness Of 100. Advocate - Speak In Favor Of; Support (An
Judgment; Ability To Judge Quickly Idea Or Plan); Urge; Plead For
71. Acute - (Of The Senses) Sharp; Quickly 101. Aegis - Shield; Protection; Defense
Perceptive; Keen; Penetrating 102. Aerie - (Aery, Eyrir, Eyre) Nest Of A Large
72. Adage - Wise Saying; Proverb Bird Of Prey
73. Adamant - Hard; Inflexible 103. Aesthetic - Artistic
74. Adapt - Make Or Become Suitable For A 104. Affable - Easily Approachable; Easy To Talk
Specific Use; Alter; Modify; Adjust To; Warmly Friendly
75. Addendum - Addition; Appendix To Book; 105. Affected - Artificial; Pretended
Something That Is Added At The End 106. Affidavit - Written Statement Made Under
76. Addiction - Compulsive Habitual Need Oath (For Use As Proof In A Court Of Law)

58
107. Affiliation - Joining; Associating With 137. Alleviate - Relieve (Pain)

108. Affinity - Feeling Of Kinship; Similarity; Ex. 138. Alliteration - Repetition Of Beginning Sound
Strong Affinity For Her; In Poetry
109. Affirmation - Positive Assertion; 139. Allocate - Assign; Set Apart For A Particular
Confirmation; Purpose
110. Affliction - State Of Distress; Trial; Cause Of 140. Alloy - Mixture As Of Metals
Distress Or Suffering; 141. Allude - Refer Indirectly; N. Allusion Indirect
111. Affluence - Abundance; Wealth Reference
112. Affront - Insult; Offense; Intentional Act Of 142. Allure - Entice; Attract; Tempt
Disrespect; 143. Alluvial - Pertaining To Soil Deposits Left By
113. Afterlife - Life After Death; Later Part Of Running Water
One’S Life 144. Alms - Money Or Goods Given To The Poor
114. Agape - Openmouthed 145. Aloft - Upward; High Up In The Air
115. Agenda - Items Of Business At A Meeting 146. Aloof - Apart; Not Open In One’S
116. Agglomeration - Collection; Heap; V. Relationship With Other People; Reserved;
Agglomerate Gather Into A Rounded Mass Adv
117. Aggrandize - Make Greater; Increase In 147. Altercation - Noisy Quarrel
Power, Wealth, Rank, Or Honor 148. Altruistic - Unselfishly Generous; Concerned
118. Aggregate - Sum; Total; Adj. V Gather Into A For Others; Op. Egoism
Mass Or Whole; Accumulate; Add Up To; 149. Amalgam - Combination Of Different Things;
119. Aghast - Filled With Great Surprise Or Fear; Mixture Of Metals (Containing Mercury)
Horrified 150. Amalgamate - (Of Societies Or Groups)
120. Agility - Nimbleness; Ability To Move Combine; Unite In One Body
Quickly 151. Amass - Collect (Gradually, In A Very Large
121. Agitate - Stir Up; Disturb Amount)
122. Agnostic - One Who Is Skeptical Of The 152. Amazon - Female Warrior
Existence Or Know Ability Of A 153. Ambidextrous - Capable Of Using Either
123. Agog - Highly Excited; Intensely Curious Hand With Equal Ease
124. Agrarian - Pertaining To Land Or Its 154. Ambience - Environment; Atmosphere; Ex.
Cultivation; Ex. Agrarian Reform Restaurant With A Pleasant Ambience
125. Airy - Of Air; High In The Air; Lofty; 155. Ambiguous - Unclear Or Doubtful In
Immaterial; Unreal Meaning
126. Alacrity - Cheerful Promptness Without 156. Ambivalence - The State Of Having
Reluctance Contradictory Or Conflicting Emotional
127. Alchemy - Medieval Chemistry 157. Amble - Walking At An Easy Unhurried Pace;
128. Alcove - Nook; Recess V Walk Slowly And Aimlessly
129. Alias - An Assumed Name Esp. By A 158. Ambrosia - Food Of The Gods
Criminal (Usually To Mislead People 159. Ambulatory - Able To Walk
130. Alienate - Make Unfriendly Or Hostile; 160. Ambush - Act Of Lying In Wait To Attack By
Estrange; Separate; Change The Ownership Surprise; Ex. Lie In Ambush;
Of 161. Ameliorate - Improve
131. Alimentary - Supplying Nourishment 162. Amenable - Obedient; Compliant; Readily
132. Alimony - Payments Made Regularly To An Managed; Responsive; Willing To Be Led;
Ex-Spouse After Divorce 163. Amend - Correct; Change ; Generally For The
133. Allay - Calm; Pacify Better
134. Allege - State Without Proof 164. Amenities - Convenient Features That Helps
135. Allegiance - Loyalty To Make Life Pleasant; Social Courtesies
136. Allegory - Story, Play, Or Picture In Which 165. Amiable - Agreeable; Lovable; Warmly
Characters Are Used As Symbols; Fable Friendly

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
59
166. Amicable - Peaceful; Politely Friendly; Not 193. Anemia - Condition In Which Blood Lacks
Quarrelsome; Ex. Amicable Settlement Red Corpuscles; Adj. Anemic
167. Amiss - Wrong; Faulty; Ex. Something Amiss 194. Anesthetic - Substance That Removes
168. Amity - Friendship; Peaceful Relationship As Sensation With Or Without Loss Of
Between Nations Consciousness;
169. Amnesia - Loss Of Memory 195. Anguish - Acute Pain; Extreme Suffering
170. Amnesty - Pardon (Allowed By Government 196. Angular - Sharp-Cornered; Having An Angle;
To Political Criminals) Not Rounded (Body); Bony; Lean; Gaunt;
171. Amok(Amuck) - In A State Of Rage; Ex. Run 197. Animadversion - Critical Remark; V.
Amok Animadvert Comment Critically With
172. Amoral - Non-Moral; Having No Disapproval
Understanding Of Right And Wrong 198. Animated - Lively; Spirited
173. Amorous - Moved By Sexual Love; Loving; 199. Animosity - Active Enmity
Of Sexual Love; Ex. Amorous Advances 200. Animus - Hostile Feeling Or Intent;
174. Amorphous - Formless; Lacking Shape Or Animosity; Hostility; Disposition
Definition
175. Amphibian - Able To Live Both On Land And 201. Annals - Records Arranged In Yearly Parts;
In Water; History
176. Amphitheater - Oval Building With Tiers Of 202. Anneal - Reduce Brittleness And Improve
Seats; Cf. Arena Toughness By Heating And Cooling
177. Ample - Enough; Abundant; Spacious; Large 203. Annex - Attach; Add To A Large Thing; Take
In Size; Ex. Ample Opportunity/Garden; Possession Of; Incorporate (Territory)
178. Amplify - Increase In Size Or Effect; Expand; 204. Annihilate - Destroy
Broaden Or Clarify By Expanding 205. Annotate - Comment; Make Explanatory
179. Amputate - Cut Off Part Of Body; Prune (A Notes
Limb) 206. Annuity - Yearly Allowance
180. Amulet - Charm; Talisman; An Object Worn 207. Annul - Make Void
Believed To Protect Against Evil, Bad Luck 208. Anodyne - Drug That Relieves Pain Or
181. Anachronism - An Error Involving Time In A Trouble; Opiate; Adj. Ex. Anodyne Statement
Story 209. Anoint - Consecrate; Put Oil On (In A
182. Analgesia - Condition Of Being Unable To Religious Ceremony)
Feel Pain 210. Anomalous - Abnormal; Irregular
183. Analgesic - Causing Insensitivity To Pain 211. Anomaly - Irregularity
184. Analogous - Comparable; Similar 212. Anonymity - State Of Being Nameless;
185. Analogy - Similarity; Parallelism; Comparing Anonymousness; Adj. Anonymous
Two Similar Things 213. Antagonism - Hostility; Active Opposition; V.
186. Anarchist - Person Who Seeks To Overturn Antagonize Cause To Become An Enemy
The Established Government 214. Antecede - Precede
187. Anarchy - Absence Of Governing Body; State 215. Antecedents - Preceding Events That
Of Disorder Influence What Comes Later;
188. Anathema - Solemn Curse; Someone Or 216. Antediluvian - Antiquated; Extremely
Something Regarded As A Curse Ancient
189. Ancestry - Family Descent; Adj. Ancestral 217. Anthem - Song Of Praise Or Patriotism; Ex.
190. Anchor - Secure Or Fasten Firmly; Be Fixed National Anthem
In Place; N. Anchorage 218. Anthology - Book Of Literary Selections By
191. Ancillary - Serving As An Aid Or Accessory; Various Authors; Cf. Omnibus
Auxiliary 219. Anthropoid - Manlike; Resembling A Human
192. Anecdote - Short Story Of An Amusing Or Being
Interesting Event

60
220. Anthropologist - Student Of The History And 247. Apoplexy - Stroke; Loss Of Consciousness
Science Of Humankind Caused By Too Much Blood In The Brain
221. Anthropomorphic - Having Human Form Or 248. Apostate - One Who Abandons His Religious
Characteristics Faith Or Political Beliefs; N. Apostasy
222. Anticlimax - Letdown In Thought Or 249. Apothecary - Druggist; Pharmacist
Emotion; Something Unexciting, Ordinary 250. Apothegm - Pithy, Compact Saying
223. Antidote - Remedy To Counteract A Poison 251. Apotheosis - Elevation To Godhood; An Ideal
Or Disease Example Of Something
224. Antipathy - Aversion; Dislike Or Opposition 252. Appall - Dismay; Shock Deeply
225. Antiquated - Obsolete; Old-Fashioned; 253. Apparent - Evident; Easily Seen Or
Outdated Understood; Appearing As Such
226. Antique - Made In An Earlier Period And Usu. 254. Apparition - Ghost; Phantom
Valuable 255. Appease - Pacify Or Soothe; Ex. Appease A
227. Antiquity - Quality Of Being Very Old; Crying Baby; N. Appeasement
Ancient Times 256. Appellation - Name; Title
228. Antiseptic - Substance That Prevents 257. Append - Attach
Infection In A Wound 258. Application - Diligent Attention; Diligence; V.
229. Antithesis - Contrast; Direct Opposite Of Or Apply Oneself
To; Adj. Antithetic Or Antithetical 259. Apposite - Appropriate; Fitting
230. Antler - Bony Growth On The Head Of A Deer 260. Appraise - Estimate Value Of; N. Appraisal
231. Anvil - Iron Block Used In Hammering Out 261. Appreciable - Difference
Metals 262. Appreciate - Be Thankful For; Increase In
232. Apathy - Lack Of Caring; Indifference; Lack Worth; Be Thoroughly Conscious Of
of Concern 263. Apprehend - Arrest (A Criminal); Dread;
233. Ape - Imitate Or Mimic (A Person’S Behavior Perceive; N. Apprehension
Or Manner) 264. Apprehensive - Fearful; Discerning
234. Aperture - Opening; Hole; Adjustable 265. Apprise - Inform
Opening In A Camera That Limits The Light 266. Approbation - Approval
235. Apex - Tip; Summit; Climax; Highest Point 267. Appropriate - Acquire; Take Possession Of
236. Aphasia - Loss Of Speech Due To Injury Or For One’S Own Use Without Permission
Illness 268. Appurtenances - Subordinate Possessions;
237. Aphorism - Pithy Maxim Or Saying; Adj. Something Added To A More Important
Aphoristic Thing
238. Apiarist - Person Who Keeps Bees 269. Apropos - With Reference To; Regarding
239. Apiary - A Place Where Bees Are Kept 270. Aptitude - Fitness; Talent
240. Apiculture - Bee-Keeping 271. Aquiline - Curved; Hooked; Of Or Like An
241. Aplomb - Poise; Composure In Difficult Eagle; Ex. Aquiline Nose
Situations; Assurance; Self-Confidence 272. Arable - Fit For Growing Crops; Ex. Arable
242. Apocalyptic - Prophetic; Pertaining To Land
Revelations Especially Of Disaster; N. 273. Arbiter - Person With Power To Decide A
Apocalypse Matter In Dispute
243. Apocryphal - (Of A Story) Widely Believed 274. Arbitrary - Unreasonable Or Capricious;
But Untrue Random; Tyrannical; Ex. Arbitrary Ruler
244. Apogee - Highest Point; The Point Farthest 275. Arbitrate - Act As Judge (At The Request Of
From The Earth; Op. Perigee Both Sides)
245. Apolitical - Having An Aversion Or Lack Of 276. Arboreal - Of Or Living In Trees
Concern For Political Affairs 277. Arboretum - Place Where Different Trees
246. Apologist - One Who Writes In Defense Of A And Shrubs Are Studied And Exhibited
Cause Or Institution; N. Apologia

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
61
278. Arcade - A Covered Passageway Usually 307. Artless - Without Guile; Open And Honest
Lined With Shops 308. Ascendancy - Controlling Influence; Position
279. Arcane - Esoteric; Secret; Mysterious; Of Controlling Influence; Cf. In The
Known Only To The Initiated Ascendant
280. Arch - Chief; First; Ex. Archbishop 309. Ascertain - Find Out For Certain; Make
281. Archaeology - Study Of Artifacts And Relics Certain
Of Early Mankind 310. Ascetic - Practicing Self-Denial; Avoiding
282. Archaic - Antiquated; No Longer Used; Physical Pleasures And Comforts; Austere;
Belonging To The Past 311. Ascribe - Refer; Attribute; Assign
283. Archetype - Prototype; Primitive Pattern 312. Aseptic - Preventing Infection; Having A
284. Archipelago - Group Of Closely Located Cleansing Effect
Islands 313. Ashen - Ash-Colored; Deadly Pale
285. Archives - Public Records; Place Where 314. Asinine - Stupid; Ex. Asinine Remarks
Public Records Are Kept 315. Askance - With A Sideways Or Indirect Look
286. Ardor - Heat; Passion; Zeal; Adj. Ardent (With Disapproval Or Distrust
287. Arduous - Hard; Strenuous; Ex. Arduous 316. Askew - Crookedly; Slanted; At An Angle
Work 317. Asperity - Sharpness; Roughness; Severity
288. Argot - Slang; Speech Spoken By Only A (Of Temper Or Weather
Small Group Of People 318. Aspersion - Slanderous Remark; Ex. Cast
289. Aria - Operatic Solo; A Song Sung By One Aspersions On
Person In An Opera Or Oratorio 319. Aspirant - Seeker After Position Or Status
290. Arid - (Of Land) Dry; Barren; Unproductive 320. Aspire - Seek To Attain (Position Or Status)
291. Aristocracy - Hereditary Nobility; Privileged 321. Assail - Assault
Class; Government By Nobility; N. Aristocrat 322. Assay - Analyze (To Discover What
292. Armada - Fleet Of Warships Materials Are Present); Evaluate (Soil Or
293. Aromatic - Fragrant; Having A Sweet Smell; Ore)
N. Aroma Strong Pleasant Smell 323. Assent - Agree; Accept; N. Assessment
294. Arraign - Charge In Court; Indict 324. Assert - State Strongly Or Positively;
295. Array - Marshal; Draw Up In Order; Arrange Demand Recognition Of (Rights, Claims, Etc
In Order; Clothe Splendidly; Adorn 325. Assiduous - Diligent
296. Arrears - Being In Debt; Money That Should 326. Assimilate - Absorb; Take (Food) Into The
Have Been Paid Body And Digest It; Understand
297. Arrhythmic - Lacking Rhythm Or Regularity; 327. Assuage - Make Less Severe; Ease Or
N. Arrhythmia Lessen (Pain); Satisfy (Hunger); Soothe
298. Arrogance - Pride; Haughtiness; Adj. (Anger)
Arrogant Unpleasantly Self-Important 328. Assumption - Something Taken For Granted;
299. Arroyo - Gully; Narrow Channel Formed By The Taking Over Or Taking Possession Of
Rainwater 329. Assurance - Firm Statement That
300. Arsenal - Storage Place For Military Something Is Certainly True; Promise Or
Equipment Pledge;
301. Artery - Blood-Vessel; Cf. Vein 330. Asteroid - Small Planet
302. Artful - Exhibiting Art Or Skill; Deceitful; 331. Astigmatism - Eye Defect Which Prevents
Cunning; Cf. Artifice Proper Focus; Op. Stigmatism
303. Articulate - Effective; Distinct; Expressing 332. Astral - Relating To The Stars
Ideas Clearly; Having Clear Sounds 333. Astringent - Binding; Causing Contraction
304. Artifacts - Object Made By Human Beings, (Stopping Bleeding); Harsh Or Severe;
Either Hand-Made Or Mass-Produced 334. Astronomical - Enormously Large Or
305. Artifice - Deception; Trickery Extensive
306. Artisan - A Manually Skilled Worker

62
335. Astute - Wise; Shrewd; Keen; Seeing Quickly 364. Autocratic - Having Absolute Unchecked
Something That Is To One’S Advantage Power; Dictatorial; N. Autocrat, Autocracy
336. Asunder - Into Parts; Apart; V. Sunder 365. Automaton - Mechanism That Imitates
337. Asylum - Place Of Refuge Or Shelter; Actions Of Humans; Machine That Works By
Protection (Religious Or Political) Itself
338. Asymmetric - Not Identical On Both Sides Of 366. Autonomous - Self-Governing; N. Autonomy
A Dividing Central Line 367. Autopsy - Examination Of A Dead Body;
339. Atavism - Resemblance To Remote Postmortem
Ancestors Rather Than To Parents 368. Auxiliary - Offering Or Providing Help;
340. Atheistic - Denying The Existence Of God; N. Additional Or Subsidiary; N Helper; Assistant
Atheism 369. Avalanche - Great Mass Of Falling Snow And
341. Atone - Make Amends For; Pay For; Ex. Ice
Atone For 370. Avant-Garde - Group Of Artists Whose Work
342. Atrocity - Brutal Deed; Adj. Atrocious Is Based On The Newest Ideas And Methods;
343. Atrophy - Wasting Away; V Weaken And 371. Avarice - Greediness For Wealth
Lose Flesh 372. Avenge - Take Vengeance For Something Or
344. Attentive - Alert And Watchful; Listening On Behalf Of Someone
Carefully; Paying Attention; Considerate; 373. Aver - State Confidently; Declare As True
345. Attenuate - Make Thin; Weaken 374. Averse - Reluctant; Disinclined; Not Liking
346. Attest - Testify; Bear Witness Or Opposed
347. Attire - Clothe; N Clothing; Array; Apparel 375. Aversion - Firm Dislike
348. Attribute -Essential Quality; V Ascribe; 376. Avert - Prevent; Avoid; Turn Away (Eyes Or
Explain Thought
349. Attrition - Rubbing Away By Friction; 377. Aviary - Enclosure For Birds; Large Cage
Gradual Decrease In Numbers Or Strength; 378. Avid - Greedy; Extremely Eager For; Ex. Avid
350. Atypical - Not Normal; Not Typical Learner; N. Avidity
351. Audacious -Daring; Bold; N. Audacity 379. Avocation - Secondary Or Minor Occupation
352. Audience - N. Attentions Act Of Courtesy 380. Avow - Declare Openly; N. Avowal
And Consideration 381. Avuncular - Of Or Like An Uncle
353. Audit - Examination Of Accounts Of A 382. Awe - Solemn Wonder; Feeling Of Respect
Business; Official Examination Mixed With Wonder And Fear
354. Augment - Increase; Add To 383. Awful - Terrible; Very Bad
355. Augury - Omen; Prophecy; Sign Of Coming 384. Awl - Pointed Tool Used For Piercing
Events; V. Augur Predict; Foretell 385. Awry - Distorted; Crooked; Bent; Ex. Our
356. August - Impressive; Majestic Plans Have Gone Awry.
357. Aureole - Sun’s Corona; Halo; Bright Circle 386. Axiom - Self-Evident Truth Requiring No
Of Light Proof
358. Auroral - Pertaining To The Aurora Borealis; 387. Azure - Sky Blue
359.
Cf. Aurora Australia
Auspicious - Favoring Success; Giving Signs
B
Of Future Success; Cf. Auspices 388. Babble - Chatter Idly Or Foolishly
360. Austere - Forbiddingly Stern; Ascetic; 389. Bacchanal - Noisy Party With A Lot Of
Without Comfort Or Enjoyment, N. Austerity Drinking
361. Authenticate - Prove Genuine 390. Backslide - Revert (To Bad Habits)
362. Authoritarian - Subordinating The Individual 391. Badger - Pester; Annoy Continually With
To The State Demands
363. Authoritative - Having The Weight Of 392. Badinage - Teasing Conversation; Banter;
Authority; Ex. Authoritative Joking Talk
Dictionary/Manner 393. Baffle - Frustrate; Perplex

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
63
394. Bait - Harass; Tease; Torment 423. Bawdy - Indecent; Obscene; About Sex In A
395. Baiting - Food Or Other Lure Used To Catch Rude Funny Way
Fish Or Trap Animals 424. Bearing - Deportment; Connection
396. Baleful - Evil; Malignant In Intent Or Effect; 425. Beatific - Giving Or Showing Bliss; Blissful
Deadly 426. Beatitude - Blessedness; State Of Great
397. Balk - Stop Short, As If Faced With An Happiness
Obstacle 427. Bedizens - Dress With Vulgar Finery
398. Ballast - Heavy Substance Used To Add 428. Bedraggle - Wet Thoroughly
Stability Or Weight 429. Bedraggled - Draggled
399. Balm - Something That Relieves Pain; Oily 430. Beeline - Direct Quick Route
Liquid With A Pleasant Smell From Trees 431. Befuddle - Confuse Thoroughly
400. Balmy - Soft And Mild (Of Air); Fragrant 432. Beget - Father; Become The Father Of;
401. Banal - Hackneyed; Commonplace; Trite; Produce; Give Rise To
Lacking Originality; Cliché 433. Begrudge - Envy; Give Or Allow Unwillingly;
402. Bandy - Discuss Lightly Or Glibly; Discuss In Grudge
A Frivolous Manner 434. Beguile - Deceive; Mislead Or Delude; Cheat;
403. Bane - Poison; Cause Of Ruin Pass Time Pleasantly; Charm Or Attract
404. Baneful - Harmful; Poisonous 435. Behemoth - Huge Creature; Something Of
405. Bank - Heap; Piled-Up Mass; Embankment Monstrous Size Or Power
406. Bantering - Joking Talk; Good-Naturedly 436. Beholden - Obligated; Indebted; Owing
Ridiculing Thanks; Obliged Or Indebted From Gratitude
407. Bar - Railing In A Courtroom; Legal 437. Behoove - Be Suited To; Be Incumbent
Profession; Vertical Line Dividing A Staff Upon; Be Right And Necessary
Into Equal Measures 438. Belabor - Harp On; Dwell On Tediously;
408. Barb - Sharp Projection From Fishhook, Explain
Arrow 439. Belated - Delayed
409. Bard - Poet 440. Beleaguer - Besiege Or Attack (With An
410. Barefaced - Shameless And Noticeable; Army); Harass; Beset
Blatant; Bold 441. Belie - Contradict; Give A False Impression;
411. Bargain - Agreement Between Two Groups Disguise
Or People 442. Belittle - Disparage; Depreciate
412. Baroque - Highly Ornate 443. Bellicose - Warlike
413. Barrage - Barrier Laid Down By Artillery Fire; 444. Belligerent - Quarrelsome
Overwhelming Profusion 445. Bemoan - Lament; Moan For; Express
414. Barrister - Counselor-At-Law Or Lawyer In Sorrow Or Disapproval Of
The Higher Court Of Law 446. Bemused - Confused; Lost In Thought;
415. Barter - Trade; Exchange Good For Other Preoccupied
Goods Rather Than Money 447. Benediction - Blessing
416. Barterer - Trader 448. Benefactor - Gift Giver; Patron; Person Who
417. Base - Contemptible; Morally Bad; Inferior In Does Good Or Who Gives Money For A Good
Value Or Quality Purpose
418. Bask - Luxuriate; Take Pleasure In Warmth 449. Beneficent - Kindly; Doing Good
419. Bastion - Stronghold; Something Seen As A 450. Beneficial - Helpful; Useful; Advantageous
Source Of Protection 451. Beneficiary - Person Entitled To Benefits Or
420. Bate - Let Down; Lessen The Force Of; Proceeds Of An Insurance Policy Or Will
Moderate; Restrain 452. Benefit - Advantage; Anything That Brings
421. Battalion - Army Unit Made Up Of Four Or Help, Advantage, Profit
More Companies 453. Benevolent - Generous; Charitable; Having A
422. Bauble - Trinket; Cheap Jewel; Trifle Wish To Do Good

64
454. Benign - Kindly; Favorable; Not Malignant 486. Biting - Sharply Painful To The Body Or
(Disease) Mind
455. Benison - Blessing 487. Bitter - Having A Sharp Biting Taste
456. Bent - Determined 488. Bivouac - Temporary Encampment; Camp
457. Bequeath - Leave To Someone By Means Of Without Tents
A Will 489. Bizarre - Fantastic; Violently Contrasting;
458. Berate - Scold Strongly Strikingly Unconventional
459. Bereaved - Deprived Of (Someone Beloved 490. Blackball - Vote Against (An Applicant);
Through Death) Ostracize
460. Bereavement - State Of Being Deprived Of 491. Blanch - Bleach; Whiten; Make White Or Pale
Something Valuable Or Beloved 492. Bland - Soothing Or Mild (Food); Agreeable
461. Bereft - Deprived Of (Something Valuable); 493. Blandishment - Flattery
Lacking 494. Blare - Loud Or Harsh Roar Or Screech;
462. Berserk - Mad With Violent Anger; Frenzied; Dazzling Blaze Of Light
Madly Excited 495. Blasé - Bored With Pleasure Or Dissipation;
463. Beseech - Beg; Plead With Uninterested Or Bored
464. Beset - Harass Or Trouble From All 496. Blasphemy - Irreverence; Sacrilege; Bad
Directions; Hem In Language About God Or Holy Things
465. Besiege - Surround With Armed Forces; 497. Blatant - Extremely (Offensively) Obvious;
Harass (With Requests); Annoy Continually Loudly Offensive
466. Besmirch - Soil; Defile; Make Dirty 498. Bleak - Cold Or Cheerless; Frigid; Unlikely To
467. Bestial - Beastlike; Brutal; Inhuman; Very Be Favorable; Depressing
Cruel 499. Blemish - Mar; Spoil The Beauty Or
468. Bestow - Confer Perfection Of
469. Betoken - Signify; Indicate; Be A Sign Of 500. Blight - Plant Disease
470. Betray - Be Unfaithful; Reveal 501. Blighted - Suffering From A Disease;
(Unconsciously Or Unwillingly) Destroyed
471. Betroth - Become Engaged To Marry 502. Bliss - Complete Happiness
472. Bevy - Large Group 503. Blithe(Blithesome) - Gay; Joyous
473. Beware - Be Cautious (Of) 504. Bloated - (Unpleasantly) Swollen Or Puffed
474. Bewitch - Cast A Spell Over; Captivate As With Water Or Air
Completely 505. Blotch - Spot; Blot
475. Bicameral - Two-Chambered As A 506. Blowhard - Talkative Boaster; Braggart
Legislative Body 507. Bludgeon - Club; Heavy-Headed Weapon
476. Bicker - Quarrel 508. Blue - Gloomy; Depressed
477. Bid - Command; Utter (A Greeting); Offer As 509. Blues - State Of Depression Or Melancholy;
A Price Style Of Slow
478. Biennial - Every Two Years 510. Bluff - Pretense (Of Strength); Deception;
479. Bifurcated - Divided Into Two Branches; High Cliff
Forked 511. Blunder - Error; Stupid Mistake
480. Bigot - One Who Is Intolerant (In Matters Of 512. Blunt - Having A Dull Edge
Religion Or Politics) 513. Blurt - Utter Impulsively From Nervousness
481. Bigotry - Stubborn Intolerance Or Excitement
482. Bilious - Suffering From Indigestion; Sick 514. Blush - Become Red In The Face (From
From Having Too Much Bile Embarrassment Or Shame)
483. Bilk - Swindle; Cheat 515. Bluster - Blow In Heavy Gusts; Threaten
484. Billow - Large Wave Of Water; A Great Swell Emptily; Bully
Or Surge (Of Smoke) 516. Bode - Foreshadow; Portend
485. Billowing - Swelling Out In Waves; Surging 517. Bog - Soft Wet Land

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
65
518. Bogus - Counterfeit; Not Authentic; 552. Breach - Breaking Of Contract Or Duty;
Intentionally False Fissure Or Gap; Opening
519. Bohemian - Unconventional (In An Artistic 553. Breadth - Width; Extent
Way) 554. Breed - Produce Young; Rear; Bring Up;
520. Boisterous - Violent; Rough; Noisy Produce (An Undesirable Condition)
521. Bolster - Support; Reinforce 555. Brevity - Conciseness; Shortness Of
522. Bolt - Door Bar; Fastening Pin Or Screw Duration
523. Bombardment - Attack (As With Missiles Or 556. Bridle - Harness Fitted About A Horse’S
Bombs) Head (Used To Restrain); Curb; Check
524. Bombast - Grandiloquent, Pompous Speech 557. Brim - Uppermost Edge Of A Cup; Projecting
525. Bombastic - Pompous; Using Inflated Rim (As On A Hat)
Language 558. Brindled - Tawny Or Grayish With Streaks Or
526. Bookish - Fond Of Books And Reading Spots (Of Animals)
527. Boon - Blessing; Benefit; Something Very 559. Brink - Edge (At The Top Of A Cliff)
Helpful 560. Brisk - Quick And Active; Marked By
528. Boor - Rude, Insensitive Person Liveliness And Vigor
529. Boorish - Rude; Insensitive 561. Bristle - Short Stiff Hair
530. Boost - Lift By Pushing Up From Below; 562. Bristling - Rising Like Bristles; Showing
Increase Irritation
531. Botch - Mismanage; Blow 563. Brittle - Hard But Easily Broken; Difficult;
532. Bouillon - Clear Beef (Or Meat) Soup Unstable
533. Bound - Leap Or Spring; Limit Or Confine; 564. Broach - Introduce As A Subject; Moot;
Constitute The Limit Of Open Up
534. Bountiful - Generous; Graciously Generous 565. Brocade - Rich, Figured (Patterned) Fabric
535. Bourgeois - Middle Class; Selfishly 566. Brochure - Pamphlet
Materialistic 567. Broil - Cook By Direct Heat
536. Bout Match - Short Period Of Great Activity 568. Bromide - Platitude; Chemical Compound
537. Bovine - Cow Like Used To Calm Excitement
538. Bowdlerize - Expurgate 569. Brooch - Ornamental Clasp; Pin
539. Brackish - Somewhat Saline 570. Brood - Sit On In Order To Hatch; Think
540. Brag - Boast Deeply Or Worry Anxiously
541. Braggadocio - Boasting 571. Brook - Tolerate; Endure
542. Braggart - Boaster; Bragger 572. Browbeat - Bully; Intimidate
543. Braid - Plait; Interweave Strands Or Lengths 573. Browse - Graze; Feed On Growing Grass;
Of; Make By Weaving Strands Together Skim Or Glance At Casually
544. Brand - Trademark; Mark Burned On The 574. Bruise - Injure Without Breaking The Skin
Hide Of An Animal 575. Brunt - Main Impact Or Shock (Of An Attack
545. Brandish - Wave Around (A Weapon); Or Blow)
Flourish 576. Brusque - Blunt; Abrupt; Curt
546. Bravado - Swagger; Assumed Air Of 577. Buccaneer - Pirate
Defiance; False Show Of Bravery 578. Bucolic - Rustic; Pastoral
547. Brave - Face Courageously 579. Buffet - Strike Forcefully; Slap; Batter;
548. Brawl - Noisy Quarrel Knock Out
549. Brawn - Human Muscle; Muscular Strength; 580. Buffoon - Stupid Person; Clown
Sturdiness 581. Bugaboo - Bugbear; Object Of Baseless
550. Brawny - Muscular; Having Well-Developed Terror
Muscles 582. Bulge - Protruding Part; Swelling Of A
551. Brazen - Insolent; Without Shame; Bold Surface

66
583. Bulk - Size Or Volume (Esp. When Very 612. Callous - Hardened; Unfeeling; Without
Large) Sympathy For The Sufferings Of Others;
584. Bulky - Having Great Size Unkind
585. Bullion - Gold And Silver In The Form Of 613. Callow - Youthful; Immature; Inexperienced
Bars 614. Callus - Area Of Thick Hard Skin
586. Bully - One Who Is Habitually Cruel To 615. Calorific - Heat-Producing
Weaker People 616. Calumny - Malicious Misrepresentation;
587. Bulwark - Strong Wall Built For Defense Slander
588. Bump - Hit Or Knock Against With Force 617. Camaraderie - Good-Fellowship
589. Bungle - Mismanage; Blunder; Botch; Blow; 618. Cameo - Shell Or Jewel Carved In Relief;
Spoil By Clumsy Behavior Star’S Special Appearance In A Minor Role
590. Buoyant - Able To Float; Cheerful And In A Film
Optimistic 619. Camp - Group Sharing A Common Cause Or
591. Bureaucracy - Overregulated Administrative Opinion
System Marked By Red Tape 620. Canard - Unfounded False Rumor;
592. Burgeon - Grow Rapidly; Grow Forth; Send Exaggerated False Report
Out Buds 621. Candor - Frankness; Open Honesty
593. Burlesque - Give An Imitation That 622. Canine - Related To Dogs; Doglike
Ridicules; Imitate Mockingly 623. Canker - Any Ulcerous Sore; Ulcer; Any Evil
594. Burnish - Make Shiny By Rubbing; Polish 624. Canny - Shrewd In Money Matters; Thrifty
595. Bust - Piece Of Sculpture Showing A 625. Cant - Insincere Speech Or Expression Of
Person’S Head, Shoulders, And Upper Chest Piety; Jargon Of Thieves
596. Buttress - Support; Prop Up 626. Cantankerous - Ill-Humored; Irritable
597. Buxom - Full-Bosomed; Plump; Jolly 627. Cantata - Story Set To Music To Be Sung By
C 628.
A Chorus (Shorter Than An Oratorio)
Canter - Slow Gallop
598. Cabal - Small Group Of Persons Secretly 629. Canto - Division Of A Long Poem
United To Promote Their Own Interests 630. Canvass - Determine Or Seek Opinions,
599. Cache - Hiding Place Votes
600. Cacophonous - Discordant; Inharmonious 631. Capacious - Spacious
601. Cacophony - Unpleasant Mixture Of Loud 632. Capacity - Mental Or Physical Ability; Role;
Sounds Position Or Duty
602. Cadaver - Corpse; Dead Human Body 633. Capillary - Having A Very Fine Bore;
603. Cadaverous - Like A Corpse; Pale Resembling A Hair; Fine And Slender
604. Cadence - Rhythmic Rise And Fall (Of Words 634. Capitulate - Surrender; Give Up All
Or Sounds); Beat; Regular Beat Of Sound; Resistance
Rhythm 635. Caprice - Whim; Sudden Change Of Mind
605. Cadet - Student At A Military School Without Any Real Cause
606. Cajole - Persuade By Praise Or False 636. Capricious - Unpredictable; Fickle
Promise; Coax; Wheedle 637. Capsize - (Of A Boat) Turn Over
607. Calamity - Disaster; Misery 638. Caption - Title; Chapter Heading; Text Under
608. Calculated - Deliberately Planned; Likely Illustration
609. Caldron(Cauldron) - Large Kettle 639. Captious - Faultfinding; Too Critical
610. Caliber - Ability; Quality; Diameter Of The 640. Carafe - Glass Water Bottle; Decanter
Inside Of A Round Cylinder 641. Carapace - Shell Covering The Back (Of A
611. Calligraphy - Beautiful Writing; Excellent Turtle, Tortoise, Crab, Etc.)
Penmanship 642. Carat(Karat) - Unit Of Weight For Precious
Stones; Measure Of The Purity Of Gold
643. Carcinogenic - Causing Cancer

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
67
644. Cardinal - Chief; Most Important 671. Categorical - Without Exceptions; Made
645. Cardiologist - Doctor Specializing In Without Any Doubt In Mind; Unqualified;
Ailments Of The Heart Absolute
646. Careen - Lurch; Sway From Side To Side; 672. Cater - Provide Food And Drink (For); Cater
Move With Irregular Swinging Movement; To
Stagger 673. Catharsis - Purging Or Cleansing Of Any
647. Career - Rush Wildly; Go At Full Speed Passage Of The Body
648. Carefree - Free From Worries; Having No 674. Cathartic - Purgative; Medicine That Causes
Problems The Bowels To Empty
649. Caricature - Distortion; Burlesque 675. Catholic - (Of Likings And Interests)
650. Carillon - A Set Of Bells (Often In A Tower) Universal; General; Broad
Capable Of Being Played 676. Caucus - Private Meeting Of A Group Of
651. Carnage - Destruction Of Life; Slaughter; People In A Political Party To Select Officers
Killing Of Large Numbers Of People Or 677. Caulk(Calk) - Make Watertight (By Blocking
Animals Up Cracks As In A Ship)
652. Carnal - Fleshly; Sensual; Concerning The 678. Causal - Implying A Cause-And-Effect
Desires Of The Body Relationship
653. Carnivorous - Meat-Eating 679. Caustic - Burning; Corrosive; Able To Burn
654. Carousal - Drunken Revel By Chemical Action
655. Carping - Petty Criticism; Fault-Finding; 680. Cauterize - Burn (A Wound Or Snakebite,
Fretful Complaining; Quibble Etc.) With Hot Iron
656. Carrion - Rotting Flesh Of A Dead Body 681. Cavalcade - Procession Of Riders Or Horse-
657. Cartographer - Map-Maker Drawn Carriages; Parade
658. Cascade - Small Waterfall 682. Cavalier - Casual And Offhand; Arrogant
659. Caste - One Of The Hereditary Classes In 683. Cavil - Quibble; Make Frivolous Objections;
Hindu Society Find Fault Unnecessarily
660. Castigation - Punishment; Severe Criticism 684. Cede - Yield (Title Or Territory) To (Esp.
Or Disapproval After Losing A War); Surrender Formally
661. Castrate - Remove The Sex Organs (Of A 685. Celerity - Speed; Rapidity
Male Animal Or Person) 686. Celestial - Heavenly
662. Casual - Happening By Chance 687. Celibate - Abstaining From Sexual
663. Casualty - Serious Or Fatal Accident; Person Intercourse; Unmarried
Killed Or Wounded In An Accident Or Battle 688. Cemetery - Place For Burying The Dead
664. Cataclysm - Deluge; Upheaval; Earthquake; 689. Censor - (In Ancient Rome) Overseer Of
Violent And Sudden Event Or Change Morals (Also Taking The Census)
665. Catalyst - Agent Which Brings About A 690. Censorious - Severely Critical
Chemical Change While It Remains 691. Censure - Blame; Criticize; Express Strong
Unaffected And Unchanged Disapproval
666. Catapult - Slingshot; Hurling Machine 692. Centaur - Mythical Figure, Half Man And
667. Cataract - Great Waterfall; Eye Abnormality Half Horse
(Causing A Gradual Loss Of Eyesight) 693. Centigrade - Denoting A Widely Used
668. Catastrophe - Calamity ; Disaster Temperature Scale (Basically Same As
669. Catcall - Shout Of Disapproval Or Celsius)
Displeasure (Made At The Theater Or A 694. Centrifugal - Radiating; Departing From The
Sports Match) Center
670. Catechism - Book For Religious Instruction 695. Centrifuge - Machine That Separates
In Question-And-Answer Form Substances By Whirling Them
696. Centripetal - Tending Toward The Center

68
697. Centurion - Roman Army Officer 727. Chassis - Framework And Working Parts Of
(Commanding A Company Of About 100 An Automobile; Framework To Which
Soldiers) Components Are Attached
698. Cerebral - Pertaining To The Brain Or 728. Chaste - Morally Pure; Virginal; Abstaining
Intellect From Illicit Sexual Acts; Modest
699. Cerebration - Thought; Working Of The Brain 729. Chasten - Discipline; Punish In Order To
700. Ceremonious - Marked By Formality; Correct
Extremely Formal And Polite 730. Chastise - Punish As By Beating; Criticize
701. Ceremony - Conventional Social Courtesy Severely
702. Certitude - Certainty 731. Chauvinist - Blindly Devoted Patriot;
703. Cessation - Stoppage Zealous Adherent Of A Group, Cause, Or Sex
704. Cession - Yielding To Another; Ceding 732. Check - Stop Motion; Curb Or Restrain
705. Chafe - Warm By Rubbing; Make Sore By 733. Checked - Having A Pattern Of Squares
Rubbing 734. Checkered - Marked By Great Changes In
706. Chaff - Worthless Products Of An Endeavor; Fortune
Husk 735. Cherub - Winged Angel Of The Highest Order
707. Chaffing - Bantering; Joking 736. Cherubic - Angelic; Innocent-Looking
708. Chagrin - Annoyance And Disappointment 737. Chicanery - Trickery; Deception
709. Chalice - Goblet; Consecrated Cup 738. Chide - Scold; Rebuke (Someone Who Has
710. Chameleon - Lizard That Changes Color In Done Wrong)
Different Situations 739. Chimera - Unreal Fancy; Fire-Breathing
711. Champion - Support Militantly; Fight For Female Creature
712. Championship - Position Of Champion; 740. Chimerical - Fantastically Improbable;
Competition Held To Determine A Champion Highly Unrealistic
713. Chancellery - Position Of A Chancellor 741. Chip - Lose A Small Piece From The Surface
714. Chancellor - Legal Official Of High Rank Or Edge
715. Chant - Tune(Melody) In Which A Number Of 742. Chisel - Swindle Or Cheat
Words Are Sung On The Same Note 743. Chivalrous - Courteous; Faithful; Brave
716. Chaotic - In Utter Disorder 744. Choice - Delicate; Of Very Fine Quality
717. Chapel - Small Church (In A Prison, College, 745. Choir - Group Of People Who Sing Together
Or Hospital) (Esp. During Religious Services)
718. Chaperon - Older Person Who Accompanies 746. Choleric - Hot-Tempered; Bad-Tempered;
And Supervises A Young Unmarried Woman Irritable
719. Chaplain - Clergyman Attached To A Chapel 747. Chore - Daily Domestic Task (Such As
720. Char - Make Or Become Black By Burning; Cleaning, Cooking, And Shopping)
Reduce Or Be Reduced To Carbon Or 748. Choreography - Art Of Representing Dances
Charcoal In Written Symbols; Arrangement Of Dances
721. Charisma - Divine Gift; Great Popular Charm 749. Chortle - Chuckle With Delight
Or Appeal; Magnetism 750. Chorus - Phrase Repeated Throughout A
722. Charlatan - Quack; Pretender To Knowledge Song Or Poem
(Esp. In Medicine) 751. Chronic - Long Established As A Disease
723. Charm - Quality Of Pleasing; Amulet; Action 752. Chronicle - Report; Record (In Chronological
Or Formula Thought To Have Magical Order)
Power; Spell 753. Chuckle - Laugh Quietly
724. Chary - Cautious; Unwilling To Take Risks; 754. Churlish - Boorish; Rude
Sparing Or Restrained About Giving 755. Ciliated - Having Minute Hairs
725. Chase - Ornament A Metal Surface By 756. Cipher - Nonentity; Worthless Person Or
Indenting; Follow Rapidly To Catch Thing; Zero; Secret Code
726. Chasm - Abyss; Very Deep Crack

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
69
757. Circlet - Small Ring; Band Of Gold, Silver, 788. Clipper - Sailing Vessel Built For Great
Jewel Speed
758. Circuit - Closed Circular Line Around An 789. Clique - Small Exclusive Group Of People
Area; Circumference 790. Cloister - Monastery Or Convent
759. Circuitous - Roundabout 791. Clot - Half-Solid Lump Formed From A
760. Circumlocution - Indirect Or Roundabout Liquid (Or Blood)
Expression (By Using An Unnecessarily 792. Clout - Great Influence (Especially Political
Large Number Of Words) Or Social); Hard Blow With Fist
761. Circumscribe - Limit; Confine; Draw A Line 793. Clown - Act Stupidly; Play The Fool
Around 794. Cloy - Become Unpleasant Through Too
762. Circumspect - Prudent; Cautious; Acting Much Sweetness Or Excess
After Careful Thought 795. Cloying - Distasteful (Because Excessive);
763. Circumvent - Outwit; Defeat By Behaving Excessively Sweet Or Sentimental
More Cleverly; Outsmart 796. Coagulate - Congeal; Thicken; Clot
764. Cistern - Reservoir Or Water Tank 797. Coalesce - Combine; Fuse
765. Citadel - Fortress 798. Coalition - Partnership; League; Union Of
766. Cite - Quote; Commend Separate Political Parties
767. Civil - Having To Do With Citizens; Not 799. Coax - Persuade By Flattery
Military Or Religious 800. Coda - Concluding Section Of A Musical Or
768. Clairvoyant - Having Foresight; Fortuneteller Literary Composition
769. Clamber - Climb By Crawling With 801. Coddle - Treat Gently; Indulge Excessively;
Difficulties; Scramble Pamper; Mollycoddle
770. Clamor - Loud Continuous Noise; 802. Codicil - Supplement To The Body Of A Will;
Continuous Demand Later Addition To A Will
771. Clandestine - Secret 803. Codify - Arrange (Laws Or Rules) As A Code;
772. Clangor - Loud Resounding Noise; Sound Of Classify
Repeated Clanging 804. Coercion - Use Of Force To Get Someone To
773. Clap - Strike The Palms Of The Hands Object; Compelling
Together With A Sudden Explosive Sound 805. Coeval - Living At The Same Time As;
774. Clapper - Striker (Tongue) Of A Bell Existing During The Same Period Of Time
775. Clapping - Loud Or Explosive Sound 806. Cog - Tooth Projecting From A Wheel
776. Clarion - Shrill, Trumpet Like Sound; Kind Of 807. Cogent - Convincing
Trumpet Used In Former Times 808. Cogitate - Think Over; Ponder
777. Clasp - Hold Firmly Within Arms 809. Cognate - Having A Common Origin; Related
778. Claustrophobia - Fear Of Being Locked In Linguistically
779. Clavicle - Collarbone 810. Cognition - The Mental Process Of Knowing
780. Cleave - Split Or Sever; Cling To; Remain 811. Cognitive - Having To Do With Knowing Or
Faithful To Perceiving Related To The Mental Processes
781. Cleft - Split 812. Cognizance - Knowledge
782. Clemency - Disposition To Be Lenient In 813. Cognizant - Having Knowledge; Aware
Deciding Punishments; Mildness As Of The 814. Cohabit - Live Together
Weather 815. Cohere - Stick Together
783. Cliché - Phrase Dulled In Meaning By 816. Cohesion - Tendency To Keep Together
Repetition; Platitude 817. Cohorts - Group Of People Who Share Some
784. Clientele - Body Of Customers Common Quality; Armed Band
785. Climactic - Relating To The Highest Point 818. Coiffure - Hairstyle
786. Clime - Climate 819. Coin - Make Coins; Invent Or Fabricate (A
787. Clip - Cut Off With Shears; Fasten Word Or Phrase)

70
820. Coincide - Happen At The Same Time; Be In 847. Commiserate - Feel Or Express Pity Or
Agreement Sympathy For
821. Coincidence - The Chance Occurrence, At 848. Commodious - Spacious And Comfortable
The Same Time, Of Two Or More Seemingly 849. Commonplace - Ordinary
Connected Events 850. Commonwealth - Nation Governed By The
822. Colander - Utensil With Perforated Bottom People; Republic; People Of A Nation
Used For Straining 851. Communal - Held In Common; Public; Of A
823. Collaborate - Work Together; Cooperate Group Of People; Of A Commune
Treasonably With The Enemy 852. Commune - Small (Often Rural) Community
824. Collage - Work Of Art Put Together From Whose Members Share Work And Income
Fragments 853. Compact - Agreement; Contract
825. Collate - Examine And Compare In Order To 854. Compartment - One Of The Parts Into Which
Verify Authenticity An Enclosed Space Is Divided
826. Collateral - Security Given For Loan 855. Compassion - Sympathy For The Suffering
827. Collation - A Light Meal; Collating Of Others
828. Collected - Composed; Calm; Self- 856. Compatible - Harmonious; In Harmony With;
Possessed Able To Exist Together
829. Colloquial - Pertaining To Conversational Or 857. Compelling - Overpowering; Irresistible In
Common Speech; Informal Effect
830. Colloquialism - Colloquial Expression 858. Compendium - Brief, Comprehensive
831. Colloquy - Informal Discussion; Summary
Conversation 859. Compensatory - Making Up For; Repaying
832. Collusion - Conspiring In A Fraudulent 860. Compilation - Listing Of Information In
Scheme To Cheat Or Deceive Others Tabular Or Book Form; Compiling
833. Colossal - Huge 861. Compile - Assemble; Gather; Accumulate;
834. Colossus - Gigantic Statue; Person Or Thing Make (A Report Or A Book) From Facts And
Of Great Size Or Importance Information Found In Various Places
835. Coma - Deep Prolonged Unconsciousness 862. Complacency - Self-Satisfaction; Smugness
Caused By Disease 863. Complaisant - Trying To Please; Obliging;
836. Comatose - In A Coma; Extremely Sleepy Willing To Please Others
837. Combustible - Easily Burned 864. Complement - Complete; Consummate;
838. Comeback - Retort; Quick Clever Reply; Make Perfect
Return To Former Status 865. Complementary - Serving To Complete
839. Comely - Attractive; Agreeable; Having A Something
Pleasing Appearance 866. Compliance - Conformity In Fulfilling
840. Comestible - Something Fit To Be Eaten Requirements; Readiness To Yield
841. Comeuppance - Deserts; Well-Deserved 867. Compliant - Readily Acting In Accordance
Punishment With A Rule, Order
842. Comity - Courtesy; Civility 868. Complicity - Participation; Involvement (In A
843. Commandeer - Take (Private Property) For Questionable Act Or A Crime)
Military Use Without Needing Permission Or 869. Component - Element; Ingredient
Giving Payment 870. Comport -Bear One’S Self; Behave
844. Commemorate - Honor The Memory Of; 871. Compost - Mixture Of Decaying Organic
Serve As A Memorial To Matter Used As Fertilizer
845. Commemorative - Remembering; Honoring 872. Composure - Mental Calmness
The Memory Of 873. Compound - Combine; Produce By
846. Commensurate - - Equal In Extent; Of The Combining; Increase
Same Size 874. Comprehend - Include; Understand

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
71
875. Comprehensive - Broad; Including A Lot Or 908. Condolence - Sympathy For Someone Who
Everything; Thorough; Inclusive Has Experienced Great Sorrow
876. Compress - Force Into Less Space; Squeeze; 909. Condone - Overlook; Forgive; Give Tacit
Contract; Put Into Fewer Words Approval; Excuse
877. Comprise - Include; Consist Of 910. Conducive - Helpful; Contributive
878. Compromise - Adjust Or Settle By Making 911. Conduit - Aqueduct; Passageway For Fluids
Mutual Concessions 912. Confidant - (Confidante) Trusted Friend (To
879. Compulsion - Compelling; Strong Desire Whom One Tells One’S Secret)
That Is Difficult To Control 913. Confide - Tell In Confidence (To A Person
880. Compulsive - Resulting From Compulsion One Trusts)
881. Compulsory - Obligatory; That Must Be 914. Confidence - Self-Assurance; Calm
Done Unworried Feeling Based On A Strong Belief
882. Compunction - Remorse; Strong Uneasiness In One’S Abilities
Caused By Guilt 915. Confidential - Spoken Or Written In Secret;
883. Compute - Reckon; Calculate Trusted With Private Matters
884. Concatenate - Link As In A Chain 916. Confine - Shut In An Enclosed Space; Keep
885. Concave - Hollow; Curved Inwards Within Limits
886. Concede - Admit; Acknowledge As Being 917. Confiscate - Seize; Take Possession Of
True (Often Reluctantly) (Private Property) By Official Order
887. Conceit - Vanity Or Self-Love 918. Conflagration - Great Fire
888. Conceive - Form An Idea In The Mind; 919. Confluence - Flowing Together; The Place
Devise; Become Pregnant Where Two Rivers Flow Together
889. Concentric - Having A Common Center 920. Conform - Be Similar; Act In Agreement;
890. Conception - Beginning; Forming Of An Idea; Comply
Fertilization 921. Conformist - Person Who Uncritically
891. Concerted - Mutually Agreed On; Done Conforms To The Customs Of A Group
Together By Agreement 922. Conformity - Harmony; Agreement With
892. Concession - An Act Of Yielding; Conceding; Established Rules Or Customs; Similarity
Something Conceded 923. Confound - Confuse; Puzzle
893. Conciliate - Reconcile; Soothe; Win The 924. Congeal - Freeze; Coagulate
Friendly Feelings (By Removing Anger) 925. Congenial - Pleasant; Friendly; In
894. Conciliatory - Reconciling; Soothing Agreement With One’S Tastes And Nature
895. Concise - Brief And Compact 926. Congenital - Existing At Birth
896. Conclave - Private Secret Meeting 927. Conglomerate - Corporation Made Up Of
897. Conclusive - Decisive; Ending All Debate Several Different Companies In Diversified
898. Concoct - Prepare By Mixing Or Combining Fields
899. Concomitant - That Which Accompanies 928. Conglomeration - Mass Of Material Sticking
900. Concord - Harmony; Accord Together
901. Concordat - Formal Agreement 929. Congruence - Correspondence Of Parts;
902. Concur - Agree; Coincide; Happen At The Harmonious Relationship
Same Time 930. Congruent - In Agreement; Harmonious;
903. Concurrent - Happening At The Same Time Corresponding; Coinciding Exactly
904. Condescend - Bestow Courtesies With A 931. Conifer - Pine Tree (Usu. Evergreen); Cone-
Superior Air Bearing Tree
905. Condign - Adequate; (Of Punishment) 932. Conjecture - Surmise; Guess
Severe And Well Deserved 933. Conjugal - Pertaining To Marriage
906. Condiments - Seasonings; Spices 934. Conjure Up - Bring Into The Mind
907. Condole - Express Condolences

72
935. Conjure - Cause To Appear By Magic; 961. Constituent - Supporter; Voter; Member Of A
Summon (A Devil Or A Spirit) By Magical Constituency; Component
Power 962. Constitution - Constituting; System Of
936. Connivance - Pretense Of Ignorance Of Laws; Composition Of Something
Something Wrong; Assistance; Permission 963. Constrain - Hold Back; Restrain; Compel
To Offend 964. Constraint - Restraint; Compulsion;
937. Connive - Feign Ignorance (Of A Wrong); Repression Of Feelings; Reticence
Conspire 965. Construe - Explain; Interpret
938. Connoisseur - Person Competent To Act As 966. Consummate - Complete
A Judge Of Art; A Lover Of An Art 967. Contagion - Infection (By Contact)
939. Connotation - Suggested Or Implied 968. Contaminate - Pollute
Meaning Of An Expression 969. Contempt - Scorn; Disdain
940. Connubial - Pertaining To Marriage Or The 970. Contend - Struggle; Compete; Assert
Matrimonial State Earnestly
941. Consanguineous - (Consanguine) - Having A 971. Contention - Assertion; Claim; Thesis
Common Ancestor 972. Contentious - Quarrelsome; Controversial
942. Consanguinity - Kinship; Relationship By 973. Contest - Dispute; Argue About The
Birth Rightness Of; Compete For; Try To Win
943. Conscientious - Scrupulous; Through And 974. Context - Writings Preceding And Following
Careful The Passage Quoted; Circumstance In
944. Conscript - Draftee; Person Forced Into Which An Event Occurs
Military Service 975. Contiguous - Adjacent To; Touching Upon
945. Consecrate - Dedicate; Sanctify; Declare As 976. Continence - Self-Restraint; Sexual
Sacred Chastity; Sexual Abstinence
946. Consensus - General Agreement; Opinion 977. Contingency - Future Event That May Or
Reached By A Group May Not Occur; Possibility
947. Consequential - Self-Important; Significant; 978. Contingent - Dependent On Something
Consequent; Following As A Result Uncertain Or In The Future; Conditional
948. Conservatory - (Conservatoire) School Of 979. Contort - Twist Violently Out Of Shape
The Fine Arts (Especially Music Or Drama) 980. Contortions - Twisting; Distortions
949. Consign - Send To A Person Or Place For 981. Contraband - Illegal Trade; Smuggling;
Sale; Deliver Officially; Entrust Smuggled Goods
950. Consistency - Absence Of Contradictions; 982. Contravene - Contradict; Oppose; Violate (A
Uniformity Rule, Law, Or Custom)
951. Console - Lessen Sadness Or 983. Contrite - Penitent; Repentant
Disappointment; Give Comfort 984. Contrivance - Something Contrived;
952. Consolidate - Merge; Strengthen Machine Or Apparatus; Clever Deceitful Plan
953. Consolidation - Unification; Process Of 985. Contrive - Invent Or Fabricate In A Clever
Becoming Firmer Or Stronger Way (By Improvisation)
954. Consonance - Harmony; Agreement 986. Contrived - Unnatural And Forced; Artificial;
955. Consonant - Harmonious; In Agreement Not Spontaneous
956. Consort - Associate With; Keep Company 987. Controvert - Oppose With Arguments;
957. Conspiracy - Treacherous Plot; Secret Plan Attempt To Refute; Contradict
Against The Law 988. Contumacious - Stubborn And Disobedient;
958. Conspire - Take Part In A Conspiracy; (Of Resisting Authority
Events) Work Together 989. Contusion - Bruise
959. Consternation - Great Shock; Dismay 990. Conundrum - Riddle; Difficult Problem
960. Constituency - Voters Represented By An 991. Convene - Come Together; Assemble; Call
Elected Official; District So Represented To Meet

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
73
992. Convention - Social Or Moral Custom; 1019. Correlation - Mutual Relationship

Established Practice; Formal Meeting; 1020. Corroborate - Confirm; Support; Strengthen
International Agreement 1021. Corrode - Destroy Or Wear Away Gradually
993. Conventional - Ordinary; Typical; Not By Chemical Action
Nuclear 1022. Corrosive - Eating Away By Chemicals Or
994. Converge - Approach; Tend To Meet; Come Disease
Together 1023. Corrugated - Wrinkled; Ridged
995. Conversant - Familiar With; Having 1024. Cosmic - Pertaining To The Universe; Vast
Knowledge Of 1025. Coterie - Group That Meets Socially; Select
996. Converse - Opposite Circle
997. Convert - One Who Has Adopted A Different 1026. Countenance - Approve; Support; Tolerate
Religion Or Opinion 1027. Countermand - Cancel; Revoke (An Order)
998. Convex - Curving Outward 1028. Counterpart - Thing That Completes Another
999. Conveyance - Vehicle; Transfer; Act Of 1029. Coup - Highly Successful Action Or Sudden
Conveying Attack
1000. Conviction - Judgment That Someone Is 1030. Coup - De Grace - Deathblow Or Shot Which
Guilty Of A Crime Kills
1001. Convivial - Pleasantly Merry; Festive; 1031. Couple - Join; Unite
Joyous; Gay 1032. Courier - Messenger
1002. Convoke - Call Together 1033. Court - Attempt To Gain; Seek; Woo; Risk;
1003. Convoluted - Coiled Around; Twisted; Behave So As To Invite
Involved; Complicated; Intricate 1034. Covenant - Binding Agreement Between
1004. Convolution - Twist Two Groups Or People; Compact
1005. Convulsion - Violent Uncontrollable Shaking 1035. Covert - Secret; Hidden; Implied
Movement 1036. Covet - Desire Eagerly (Someone Else’S
1006. Copious - Plentiful Possessions)
1007. Coquette - Flirt; Woman Who Tries To 1037. Covetous - Avaricious; Desirous Of
Attract The Admiration Of Men Without (Someone Else’S Possessions)
Sincere Feelings 1038. Cow - Terrorize; Intimidate
1008. Cordial - Warmly Friendly; Gracious; 1039. Cower - Shrink Quivering As From Fear;
Heartfelt Cringe
1009. Cordon - Extended Line Of Men Or 1040. Coy - Shy (Flirtatiously); Showing A
Fortifications To Prevent Access Or Egress (Pretended) Lack Of Self-Confidence;
1010. Cornice - Projecting Molding On Building Coquettish
(Usually Above Columns Or Pillars) 1041. Cozen - Cheat; Hoodwink; Swindle
1011. Cornucopia - Horn (Or Horn-Shaped 1042. Crabbed - Sour; Bad-Tempered; Peevish;
Container) Overflowing With Fruit And Grain Difficult To Read As Handwriting
1012. Corollary - Natural Consequence (Which 1043. Craft - Skill (Esp. With One’S Hands); Guile
Naturally Follows From Something Else) 1044. Crafty - Cleverly Deceitful; Cunning
1013. Coroner - Public Official Who Investigates 1045. Crass - Very Unrefined; Grossly Insensible;
Any Death Thought To Be Of Other Than Crude And Undiscriminating
Natural Causes 1046. Crave - Desire; Want Intensely
1014. Corporeal - Bodily (Rather Than Spiritual); 1047. Craven -Cowardly
Of A Bodily Form; Material; Tangible 1048. Credence - Belief
1015. Corpulent - Very Fat 1049. Credential - Evidence Concerning One’S
1016. Corpus - Collection (Of Writings Or Authority
Information) 1050. Credo - Creed
1017. Corpuscle - Red Or White Cell In The Blood 1051. Credulity - Belief On Slight Evidence;
1018. Correlate - Either Of The Correlated Things Gullibility; Naiveté

74
1052. Creed - System Of Religious Or Ethical Belief 1084. Cumulative - Growing By Addition;
1053. Creep - Move With Body Close To The Accumulative
Ground; Move Stealthily Or Slowly 1085. Cunning - Clever In Deceiving; Sly
1054. Cremate - Incinerate (A Corpse) 1086. Cupidity - Greed (For Wealth)
1055. Crescendo - Increase In The Volume Or 1087. Curator - Superintendent; Manager (In
Intensity As In A Musical Passage; Climax Charge Of A Museum Or A Library)
1056. Crest - Top (As Of A Hill Or Wave); Showy 1088. Curb - Chain Or Strap Used With A Bit To
Feathers On The Head Of A Bird Restrain A Horse
1057. Crestfallen - Dejected; Dispirited 1089. Curfew - Regulation Requiring All People To
1058. Crevice - Crack; Fissure Leave The Streets At Stated Times
1059. Cringe - Shrink Back As If In Fear; Cower 1090. Curmudgeon - Churlish, Miserly Individual;
1060. Crinkle - Wrinkle Bad-Tempered Old Person
1061. Criteria - Standards Used In Judging 1091. Cursive - (Of Writing) Flowing; Running;
1062. Crochet - Make (A Piece Of Needlework) By Having The Successive Letters Joined
Looping Thread With A Hooked Needle 1092. Cursory - Casual; Hastily Done With Little
1063. Crone - Hag; Ugly Old Woman Attention To Detail
1064. Cross - Bad-Tempered; Showing Ill-Humor; 1093. Curtail - Shorten; Reduce
Angry 1094. Cynic - Person Who Believes All People Are
1065. Crossbreed - Hybridize Motivated By Selfishness
1066. Crotchet - Odd Or Whimsical Notion 1095. Cynical - Skeptical Or Distrustful Of Human
1067. Crotchety - (Of Someone Old) Eccentric; Motives
Odd; Bad-Tempered 1096. Cynosure - Person Or Thing That Is A Center
1068. Crucial - Of Deciding Importance Of Attention
1069. Crust - Hard Outer Covering (As Of Earth Or
Snow)
D
1070. Crux - Essential Or Main Point 1097. Dabble - Work At In A Nonserious Fashion;
1071. Crypt - Secret Recess Or Vault Usually Used Splash Around
For Burial; Underground Room (Under A 1098. Dainty - Delicate; Delicately Beautiful;
Church) Fastidious
1072. Cryptic - Mysterious; Hidden; Secret 1099. Dais - Raised Platform For Speakers Or
1073. Cubicle - Small Chamber Used For Sleeping Other Important People
Or Work 1100. Dally - Trifle With; Toy With; Treat Without
1074. Cue - Word Or Signal (As In A Play To The Necessary Seriousness
Prompt Another Actor’S Speech Or 1101. Damn - Condemn; Criticize Severely;
Entrance) Condemn To Everlasting Punishment
1075. Cuisine - Style Of Cooking 1102. Dank - Damp; Unpleasantly Wet
1076. Culinary - Relating To Cooking Or Kitchen 1103. Dapper - Neat And Trim (In Appearance)
1077. Cull - Pick Out From Others (To Kill The 1104. Dappled - Spotted
Weakest Members) 1105. Dart - Move Or Throw Suddenly And Quickly
1078. Culminate - In - Reach The Highest Point In; 1106. Daub - Smear (As With Paint); Cover With
End In Something Sticky
1079. Culmination - Highest Point; Climax 1107. Daunt - Intimidate; Frighten; Discourage;
1080. Culpable - Deserving Blame; Blameworthy Dishearten
1081. Culprit - One Guilty Of A Crime 1108. Dauntless - Bold; Fearless
1082. Culvert - Artificial Channel For Water; Drain 1109. Dawdle - Loiter; Hang Around; Waste Time
Crossing Under A Road Doing Nothing
1083. Cumbersome - Heavy And Awkward To 1110. Daze - Stun As With A Blow Or Shock;
Carry Or Wear; Burdensome Bemuse; Benumb

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
75
1111. Dazzle - Make Blind With A Sudden Intense 1139. Decorous - Proper (In Behavior, Conduct, Or
Light; Amaze; Fill With Wonder Appearance)
1112. Deadlock - Standstill Resulting From The 1140. Decorum - Propriety; Orderliness And Good
Opposition Of Two Unrelenting Forces; Taste In Manner
Stalemate 1141. Decoy - Lure Or Bait
1113. Deadpan - Wooden; Impassive; With No 1142. Decree - Authoritative Order; Edict;
Show Of Feeling; With An Expressionless Judgment Of A Court Of Law
Face 1143. Decrepit - Weak And In Bad Condition From
1114. Dear - Loved; Cherished; High-Priced Old Age Or Hard Use
1115. Dearth - Scarcity 1144. Decrepitude - State Of Collapse Or
1116. Debacle - Sudden Disastrous Downfall Or Weakness Caused By Illness Or Old Age
Defeat; Complete Disaster 1145. Decry - Express Strong Disapproval Of
1117. Debar - Bar; Forbid; Exclude 1146. Deduce - Infer; Derive By Reasoning
1118. Debase - Degrade; Reduce In Quality Or 1147. Deducible - Derived By Reasoning
Value 1148. Deface - Mar; Disfigure
1119. Debauch - Corrupt Morally; Seduce From 1149. Defalcate - Embezzle
Virtue 1150. Defame - Harm Someone’S Reputation;
1120. Debauchery - Wild Behavior (With Sex And Malign; Speak Evil Of; Slander
Alcohol) 1151. Default - Failure To Act; Failure To Perform
1121. Debilitate - Weaken (Esp. Through Heat, A Task Or Be Present
Hunger, Illness); Enfeeble 1152. Defeatist - Resigned To Defeat Or Failure
1122. Debonair - (Of Men) Friendly, Charming, And 1153. Defect - Shortcoming
Fashionably Dressed; Aiming To Please 1154. Defection - Desertion
1123. Debris - Rubble; Wreckage; Scattered 1155. Defer - Give In Respectfully; Submit; Delay
Remains Of Something Broken Or Destroyed Till Later
1124. Debunk - Expose As False, Exaggerated, 1156. Deference - Courteous Regard For Another’S
Worthless; Ridicule Wish
1125. Debut - First Public Appearance; Formal 1157. Defiance - Refusal To Yield; Resistance
Presentation Of A Young Woman To Society 1158. Defile - Pollute; Make Filthy Or Dirty
1126. Debutante - Young Woman Making Formal 1159. Definitive - Most Reliable; Authorative And
Entrance Into Society Complete; That Cannot Be Improved;
1127. Decadence - Decay; Fall To A Lower Level Conclusive
(Of Morality, Civilization, Or Art) 1160. Deflect - Turn Aside; Turn Away From A
1128. Decant - Pour Off Gently (Wine Or Liquid) Straight Course
1129. Decapitate - Behead 1161. Defoliate - Destroy Leaves; Deprive Of
1130. Decelerate - Slow Down Leaves (By The Use Of Chemicals)
1131. Deciduous - Falling Off At A Specific Season 1162. Defray - Provide For The Payment Of;
Or Stage Of Growth As Of Leaves Undertake The Payment Of; Pay
1132. Decimate - Kill (Usually One Out Of Ten Or 1163. Defrock - Strip A Priest Or Minister Of
Every Tenth Man); Destroy Or Kill A Large Church Authority; Unfrock
Part Of 1164. Deft - Neat Skillful
1133. Decipher - Decode 1165. Defunct - Dead; No Longer In Use Or
1134. Declivity - Downward Slope Existence
1135. Décolletage - Low Neckline (On A Dress) 1166. Degenerate - Lower In Esteem; Disgrace
1136. Décolleté - (Of A Dress) Having A Low-Cut 1167. Degenerate - Become Worse In Quality;
Neckline Deteriorate
1137. Decompose - Decay; Break And Separate 1168. Degradation - Humiliation; Debasement;
Into Simple Parts Degeneration
1138. Decomposition - Decay 1169. Degrade - Debase; Disgrace; Degenerate

76
1170. Dehydrate - Remove Water From; Dry Out 1203. Denouement - Final Outcome; Final
1171. Deify - Turn Into A God; Make A God Of; Development Of The Plot Of A Play Or Other
Idolize Literary Work
1172. Deign - Condescend; Stoop 1204. Denounce - Condemn; Criticize
1173. Delete - Erase; Strike Out 1205. Depict - Portray
1174. Deleterious - Harmful 1206. Deplete - Reduce; Exhaust
1175. Deliberate - Consider; Ponder 1207. Deplorable - Very Bad; Deserving Severe
1176. Delineate - Portray; Depict; Sketch; Describe Disapproval
1177. Delirium - Mental Disorder Marked By 1208. Deplore - Regret; Express Sorrow
Confusion 1209. Deploy - Spread Out (Troops) In An
1178. Delta - Flat Plain Of Mud Or Sand Between Extended Though Shallow Battle Line
Branches Of A River 1210. Deport - Send Out Of The Country; Behave
1179. Delude - Deceive 1211. Depose - Dethrone; Remove From Office;
1180. Deluge - Flood; Rush Give A Deposition; Testify
1181. Delusion - False Belief; Hallucination; 1212. Deposition - Testimony Under Oath;
Deluding Deposing; Dethroning
1182. Delusive - Deceptive; Likely To Delude; 1213. Depravity - Extreme Corruption; Wickedness
Misleading; Raising Vain Hopes 1214. Deprecate - Express Disapproval Of;
1183. Delve - Dig; Search Deeply; Investigate Deplore; Protest Against; Belittle
1184. Demagogue - Person Who Appeals To 1215. Depreciate - Lessen In Value; Belittle;
People’S Prejudice; False Leader Of People Represent As Of Little Value
1185. Demean - Disgrace; Humiliate; Debase In 1216. Depredation - Plundering; Destruction
Dignity; Behave 1217. Deputize - Work Or Appoint As A Deputy
1186. Demeanor - Behavior; Bearing 1218. Deputy - Person Who Has The Power To
1187. Demented - Insane Take Charge When The Leading Person Is
1188. Demerit - Fault; Bad Quality Away
1189. Demise - Death 1219. Deranged - Insane
1190. Demographic - Related To Population 1220. Derelict - Negligent; (Of Someone)
Balance Neglectful Of Duty; (Of Something) Deserted
1191. Demography - Statistical Study Of Human By An Owner
Population 1221. Dereliction - Neglect Of Duty; Abandonment
1192. Demolition - Destruction 1222. Deride - Ridicule; Treat With Contempt;
1193. Demoniac - (Demoniacal) Fiendish; Cruel Make Fun Of
1194. Demotic - Of Or Pertaining To The People 1223. Derision - Ridicule
1195. Demur - Object (Because Of Doubts, 1224. Derivation - Deriving; Origin Or Source Of
Scruples); Raise An Objection (Showing Something
Qualms) 1225. Derivative - Unoriginal; Obtained From
1196. Demure - (Of A Woman Or Child) Grave; Another Source
Quiet And Serious; Coy 1226. Dermatologist - One Who Studies The Skin
1197. Denigrate - Blacken; Defame And Its Diseases
1198. Denizen - (Animal, Person, Or Plant) 1227. Derogate - Detract; Disparage
Inhabitant Or Resident Of A Particular Place 1228. Derogatory - Expressing A Low Opinion;
1199. Denomination - Religious Group; Unit In A Disparaging
System; Name Or Designation 1229. Descry - Catch Sight Of (Something Distant)
1200. Denominator - Common Trait Or 1230. Desecrate - Profane; Violate The Sanctity Of
Characteristic 1231. Deserts - What Someone Deserves
1201. Denotation - Meaning; Distinguishing By 1232. Desiccate - Dry Up
Name 1233. Desolate - Make Desolate; Forsake;
1202. Denote - Indicate; Refer To Directly; Mean Abandon And Desert

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
77
1234. Desperado - Reckless, Desperate Outlaw 1265. Diatribe - Bitter Scolding Or Denunciation;
1235. Desperate - Having Lost All Hope; Invective; Abuse
Despairing; Reckless And Violent Because 1266. Dichotomy - Division Into Two Opposite
Of Loss Of Hope Parts; Split
1236. Despicable - Contemptible 1267. Dictum - Authoritative And Weighty
1237. Despise - Look On With Scorn; Regard As Statement (Made By A Judge In Court)
Worthless Or Distasteful 1268. Didactic - (Of Speech Or Writing) Intended
1238. Despoil - Plunder; Sack To Teach A Moral Lesson
1239. Despondency - Loss Of Hope With Gloom 1269. Die - Metal Block Used For Shaping Metal Or
1240. Despondent - Without Hope And Courage Plastic
1241. Despot - Tyrant; Harsh 1270. Diffidence - Shyness; Lack Of Self-
1242. Destitute - Extremely Poor Confidence; Timidity
1243. Desultory - Aimless; Haphazard; Digressing 1271. Diffuse - Wordy; Verbose; Rambling; Spread
At Random Out (Like A Gas)
1244. Detached - Emotionally Removed; Free From 1272. Dignitary - Person Of High Rank Or Position
Emotional Involvement 1273. Digression - Wandering Away From The
1245. Detain Keep - Waiting; Prevent From Subject
Leaving Or Going 1274. Dilapidated - Falling To Pieces; In A Bad
1246. Determinate - Having A Fixed Order Of Condition; Ruined Because Of Neglect
Procedure 1275. Dilate - Expand; Dilate On/Upon
1247. Determination - Resolve; Firmness Of 1276. Dilatory - Delaying; Tending To Delay
Purpose; Measurement Or Calculation; 1277. Dilemma - Situation That Requires A Choice
Decision Between Equally Unfavorable Options
1248. Deterrent - Something That Discourages Or 1278. Dilettante - Aimless Follower Of An Art Or A
Deters Field Of Knowledge (Not Taking It Seriously)
1249. Detonation - Explosion 1279. Diligence - Steadiness Of Effort; Persistent
1250. Detraction - Slandering; Aspersion; Hard Work
Detracting 1280. Dilute - Make (A Liquid) Less Concentrated;
1251. Detrimental - Harmful; Damaging Reduce In Strength
1252. Deviate - Turn Away From (A Principle, 1281. Diminution - Lessening; Reduction In Size
Norm) 1282. Din - Continued Loud Noise
1253. Devious - Roundabout; Erratic; Deviating 1283. Dinghy - Small Boat (Often Ship’S Boat)
From The Straight Course 1284. Dingy - (Of Things And Place) Dirty And Dull
1254. Devise - Think Up; Invent; Plan; Bequeath 1285. Dint - Means
1255. Devoid - Empty; Lacking 1286. Diorama - Life-Size, Three-Dimensional
1256. Devolve - Deputize; Pass Or Be Passed To Scene From Nature Or History
Others (Power, Work, Or Property) 1287. Dire - Warning Of Disaster; Disastrous; (Of
1257. Devotee - Enthusiastic Follower; Enthusiast Needs And Dangers) Very Great; Urgent
1258. Devout - Pious; Deeply Religious; Sincere; 1288. Dirge - Funeral Song; Slow Mournful Piece
Earnest Of Music (Sung Over A Dead Person)
1259. Dexterous - Skillful; Skill In Using Hands Or 1289. Disabuse - Correct A False Impression;
Mind Undeceive; Free From A Wrong Belief
1260. Diabolical - Diabolic; Devilish; Fiendish 1290. Disaffect - Cause To Lose Affection Or
1261. Diadem - Crown Loyalty
1262. Dialectic - Art Of Arriving At The Truth By 1291. Disaffected - Disloyal; Lacking Loyalty
The Exchange Of Logical Arguments 1292. Disapprobation - Disapproval;
1263. Dialectical - Relating To The Art Of Debate; Condemnation
Mutual Or Reciprocal 1293. Disarray - State Of Disorder; A Disorderly Or
1264. Diaphanous - Sheer; Transparent Untidy State

78
1294. Disavowal - Denial; Disclaiming; 1321. Disenfranchise - Disfranchise; Deprive Of A

Repudiating; Disowning Civil Right
1295. Disband - Dissolve; Disperse; (Of A Group) 1322. Disengage - Uncouple; Separate;
Break Up And Separate Disconnect; Stop Fighting
1296. Disbar - Make (A Lawyer) Leave The Bar Or 1323. Disfigure - Mar The Appearance Of; Spoil
The Legal Profession 1324. Disgorge - Surrender Something (Stolen)
1297. Disburse - Pay Out (As From A Fund) 1325. Disgruntle - Make Discontented
1298. Discernible - Distinguishable; Perceivable 1326. Dishearten - Discourage
1299. Discerning - Mentally Quick And Observant; 1327. Disheveled - Untidy (Of Hair Or Clothing)
Having Insight; Perceptive 1328. Dishonor - Disgrace
1300. Disclaim - Disown; Renounce Claim To; 1329. Disinclination - Unwillingness
Deny 1330. Disingenuous - Not Naive; Not Candid;
1301. Disclose - Reveal Sophisticated; Worldly Wise
1302. Discombobulated - Discomposed; Confused 1331. Disinter - Dig Up; Unearth
1303. Discomfit - Frustrate; Put To Rout; Defeat; 1332. Disinterested - Unprejudiced; Free From
Disconcert; Embarrass; Perturb Bias And Self-Interest; Objective
1304. Discompose - Disturb The Composure Of; 1333. Disjointed - Disconnected; Lacking
Confuse Coherence
1305. Disconcert - Confuse; Upset; Embarrass; 1334. Disjunction - Act Or State Of Separation;
Perturb Disunity
1306. Disconsolate - Hopelessly Sad (At The Loss 1335. Disjunctive - Expressing A Choice Between
Of Something) Two Ideas
1307. Discord - Conflict; Lack Of Harmony; 1336. Dislodge - Remove (Forcibly); Force Out Of
Dissonance (When Musical Notes Are A Position
Played) 1337. Dismantle - Take Apart; Disassemble
1308. Discordant - Not Harmonious; Conflicting 1338. Dismember - Cut Into Small Parts; Cut (A
1309. Discount - Disregard; Regard (A Story Or Body) Apart Limb From Limb
News) As Unimportant; Deduct From A Cost 1339. Dismiss - Eliminate From Consideration; No
1310. Discourse - Serious Speech, Writing, Or Longer Consider
Conversation 1340. Disparage - Belittle
1311. Discredit - Defame; Disgrace; Destroy 1341. Disparate - Basically Different; Impossible
Confidence In; Disbelieve To Compare; Unrelated
1312. Discreditable - Causing Discredit; Shameful 1342. Disparity - Difference; Condition Of
1313. Discrepancy - Lack Of Consistency Or Inequality
Agreement As Between Facts; Difference 1343. Dispassionate - Calm; Impartial; Not
1314. Discrete - Separate; Unconnected Influenced By Personal Feelings
1315. Discretion - Prudence; Ability To Adjust 1344. Dispatch - Speediness; Prompt Execution;
Actions To Circumstances Message Sent With All Due Speed
1316. Discriminate - Distinguish; Make 1345. Dispel - Scatter; Drive Away; Cause To
Distinctions On The Basis Of Preference Vanish
1317. Discriminating - Able To See Differences; 1346. Dispensation - Dispensing; Religious
Discerning; Prejudiced System; Official Exemption From An
1318. Discursive - (Of A Person Or Writing) Obligation Or A Rule
Digressing; Rambling (Without Any Clear 1347. Dispense - Distribute; Prepare And Give Out
Plan) (Medicines)
1319. Disdain - Treat With Scorn Or Contempt 1348. Disperse - Scatter
1320. Disembark - Debark; Go Ashore (From A 1349. Dispirited - Lacking In Spirit
Ship); Unload Cargo From A Ship 1350. Disport - Amuse

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
79
1351. Disproportion - Lack Of Proportion (Between 1379. Diurnal - Daily; Occurring During The
The Parts) Daytime
1352. Disputatious - Argumentative; Fond Of 1380. Diva - Operatic Singer; Prima Donna
Argument 1381. Diverge - Vary; Go In Different Directions
1353. Disquiet - Make Anxious From The Same Point
1354. Disquietude - Uneasiness; Anxiety 1382. Divergent - Differing; Deviating
1355. Disquisition - Formal Systematic Inquiry; 1383. Diverse - Differing In Some Characteristics
Explanation Of The Results Of A Formal (From Each Other); Various
Inquiry 1384. Diversion - Act Of Turning Aside; Pastime
1356. Dissection - Analysis; Cutting Apart In Order 1385. Diversity - Variety; Dissimilitude; Lack Of
To Examine Resemblance
1357. Dissemble - Disguise; Hide The Real Nature 1386. Divert - Turn Aside From A Course; Distract;
Of; Pretend Amuse
1358. Disseminate - Distribute; Spread; Scatter 1387. Divest - Strip (As Of Clothes); Deprive (As Of
(Like Seeds) Rights); Dispossess
1359. Dissension - Disagreement Of Opinions 1388. Divine - Perceive Intuitively (By Or As If By
Causing Strife Within A Group Magic); Foresee The Future; Foretell; Dowse
1360. Dissent - Disagree 1389. Divulge - Reveal
1361. Dissertation - Formal Essay; Treatise 1390. Docile - Obedient; Easily Managed;
1362. Dissident - Dissenting (With An Opinion, A Submissive
Group, Or A Government); Rebellious 1391. Docket - Program As For Trial; Book Where
1363. Dissimulate - Pretend; Conceal By Feigning; Such Entries Are Made; List Of Things To Be
Dissemble Done; Agenda
1364. Dissipate - Squander; Waste Foolishly; 1392. Doctrinaire - Unable To Compromise About
Scatter Points Of Doctrine; Dogmatic; Unyielding
1365. Dissolute - Lacking In Moral Restraint; 1393. Doctrine - Teachings In General; Particular
Leading An Immoral Life Principle (Religious, Legal, Etc.)
1366. Dissolution - Disintegration; Reduction To A 1394. Document - Provide Written Evidence (For A
Liquid Form; Looseness In Morals Claim); Record With Documents
1367. Dissonance - Discord 1395. Doddering - Shaky; Infirm From Old Age
1368. Dissuade - Persuade Not To Do; Discourage 1396. Doff - Take Off
1369. Distant - Reserved Or Aloof; Cold In Manner 1397. Dogged - Determined; Stubborn; Stubbornly
1370. Distend - Expand; Swell Out Persevering; Tenacious
1371. Distill - Refine (A Liquid By Evaporating And 1398. Doggerel - Poor Verse
Subsequent Condensation) 1399. Dogmatic - Opinionated; Holding Stubbornly
1372. Distinct - Clearly Different; Clearly Noticed To One’S Opinion; Arbitrary; Doctrinal
1373. Distinction - Honor; Excellence; Difference; 1400. Doldrums - Blues; Listlessness(Lack Of
Contrast; Discrimination Spirit Or Energy); Period Of Stagnation
1374. Distinctive - Clearly Different From Others 1401. Dolorous - Sorrowful
Of The Same Kind 1402. Dolt - Slow-Thinking Stupid Person
1375. Distort - Twist Out Of Shape; Give A False 1403. Domicile - Home
Account Of; Misrepresent 1404. Domiciled - Having One’S Domicile
1376. Distract - Take (One’S Attention) Off 1405. Dominant - Exercising The Most Influence
Something; Upset Emotionally; Make 1406. Dominate - Control; Rule; Enjoy A
Anxious Commanding Position
1377. Distrait - Absentminded; Distracted 1407. Domineer - Rule Over Tyrannically
1378. Distraught - Upset; Distracted By Anxiety; 1408. Don - Put On
Very Anxious And Troubled Almost To The 1409. Doom - Condemnation To A Severe Penalty;
Point Of Madness Ruin

80
1410. Dormant - Sleeping; Temporarily Inactive; 1440. Drudgery - Hard Unpleasant Work; Menial
Lethargic; Latent Work
1411. Dormer - Window Projecting Upright From 1441. Dubious - Questionable; (Of Something)
Roof Causing Doubt; (Of Someone) Filled With
1412. Dorsal - Relating To The Back Of An Animal Doubt
1413. Dossier - File Of Documents On A Subject Or 1442. Ductile - Malleable; Pliable; (Of Metals)
Person; File Easily Pulled Into Shape; Flexible
1414. Dotage - Senility; Feeblemindedness Of Old 1443. Dulcet - Sweet Sounding; Pleasing To The
Age Ear; Melodious
1415. Dote - Be Excessively Fond Of; Show Signs 1444. Dull - (Of Colors Or Surfaces) Not Bright;
Of Mental Decline Cloudy; Overcast; Boring
1416. Dour - Sullen; Gloomy; Stubborn 1445. Dumbfound - (Dumfound) Astonish (Making
1417. Douse - Plunge Into Water Or Liquid; Dip; Dumb)
Immerse 1446. Dummy - Imitation Of A Real Object Used As
1418. Dowdy - Untidy (Of A Woman Or Clothes); A Substitute; Effigy
Slovenly 1447. Dupe - Someone Easily Fooled Or Deceived
1419. Downcast - Disheartened; Dejected; Sad; 1448. Duplicity - Double-Dealing; Hypocrisy; Being
Directed Downward Dishonest And Deceitful
1420. Dowry - Money Or Property Brought By A 1449. Duration - Length Of Time Something Lasts
Bride To Her Husband At Marriage 1450. Duress - Forcible Restraint, Especially
1421. Dowse - Use A Divining Rod To Search For Unlawfully; Coercion By Threat
Underground Water Or Minerals 1451. Dutiful(Duteous) - Obedient (Filled With A
1422. Doze - Sleep Lightly; Nap Sense Of Duty)
1423. Drab - Dull; Lacking Color; Cheerless 1452. Dwindle - Shrink; Reduce Gradually
1424. Draconian - Extremely Severe 1453. Dynamic - Energetic; Vigorously Active
1425. Draft - First Rough Form; Conscription; 1454. Dynamo - Generator For Producing
Draught Electricity; Energetic Person
1426. Drama - Prose Or Verse Composition To Be 1455. Dysentery - Inflammatory Disorder Of The
Performed By Actors; Play Lower Intestinal Tract
1427. Drastic - Strong; Violent And Severe 1456. Dyslexia - Word Blindness; Learning
1428. Draught - Current Of Air (Through A Room Disorder
Or To A Fire) 1457. Dyspepsia - Indigestion; Difficulty In
1429. Draw - Choosing Of A Lot Or Card Digesting Food
1430. Dregs - Sediment In A Liquid; Lees; 1458. Dyspeptic - Suffering From Indigestion
Worthless Residue
1431. Drench - Wet Thoroughly; Extinguish; Throw
E
Water Over; Dowse 1459. Earmark - Set Aside (Money Or Time) For A
1432. Dribble - Flow Or Fall In Drops; Let Saliva Particular Purpose
Flow Out Slowly From The Mouth 1460. Earn - Gain For The Performance Of Service
1433. Drip - Fall Or Let Fall In Drops; Shed Drops Or Labor; Gain (Something That One
1434. Drivel - Nonsense; Foolishness Deserves); Deserve
1435. Droll - Queer And Amusing 1461. Earthly - Of This Earth; Terrestrial; Worldly;
1436. Drone - Talk Dully; Buzz Or Murmur Like A Not Divine; Possible
Bee 1462. Earthy - Unrefined; Coarse; Of Earth
1437. Droop - Bend Or Hang Downward; Become 1463. Ebb - (Of The Tide) Recede; Lessen;
Weakened Diminish
1438. Dross - Waste Matter; Worthless Impurities 1464. Ebullient - Showing Excitement; Overflowing
1439. Drudge - Do Drudgery With Enthusiasm; Boiling

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
81
1465. Eccentric - Irregular; Odd; Unconventional; 1495. Effusion - Pouring Forth; Unrestrained
Whimsical; Bizarre; Not Concentric Outpouring Of Feeling
1466. Eccentricity - Oddity; Idiosyncrasy 1496. Effusive - Pouring Forth; Gushing
1467. Ecclesiastic - Ecclesiastical; Pertaining To 1497. Ego - One’S Opinion Of Oneself; Self-Esteem
The Church 1498. Egoism - Excessive Interest In One’S Self;
1468. Eclectic - Selective; Composed Of Elements Selfishness
Drawn From Disparate Sources 1499. Egotism - Tendency To Speak Or Write Of
1469. Eclipse - Darken; Extinguish; Outshine; Oneself Excessively; Conceit; Self-
Surpass; Cause An Eclipse Importance
1470. Ecliptic - Path Of The Sun And The Planets 1500. Egotistical - Egotistic; Excessively Self-
1471. Ecologist - Person Concerned With The Centered(Egocentric); Self-Important;
Interrelationship Between Living Organisms Conceited
And Their Environment 1501. Egregious - Notorious; Conspicuously Bad
1472. Economy - Efficiency Or Conciseness In Or Shocking
Using Something; Thrifty Management Of 1502. Egress - Exit; Opening For Going Out; Act Of
Resources Going Out
1473. Ecosystem - Ecological Community 1503. Ejaculation - Exclamation; Abrupt Ejection
Together With Its Environment (To Discharge Sperm)
1474. Ecstasy - Rapture; Very Strong Feeling Of 1504. Elaborate - Work Out Carefully; Add More
Joy And Happiness; Any Overpowering Detail Or Information
Emotion 1505. Elaboration - Addition Of Details; Intricacy
1475. Ecstatic - Causing Or Experiencing Ecstasy 1506. Elastic - Able To Spring Back Into Shape
1476. Eddy - Swirling Current Of Water, Air 1507. Elated - Filled With Excited Joy And Pride;
1477. Edict - Decree (Especially One Issued By A Overjoyed
Sovereign); Official Command 1508. Elegy - Poem Or Song Expressing
1478. Edifice - Building (Of Imposing Size) Lamentation (For The Dead)
1479. Edify - Instruct; Correct Morally 1509. Elevation - Elevated Position; Altitude;
1480. Eerie - Weird; Causing Fear Because Strange Height; Flat Upright Side Of A Building
1481. Efface - Rub Out; Remove The Surface Of 1510. Elicit - Draw Out Fact Or Information (By
1482. Effective - Effectual; Producing A Strong Discussion Or From Someone)
Response; Striking; In Operation; In Effect 1511. Elixir - Cure-All; Panacea; Something
1483. Effectual - Able To Produce A Desired Effect; Invigorating
Valid 1512. Ellipsis - Omission Of Words From A Text
1484. Effectuate - Effect; Produce; Achieve 1513. Elliptical - Elliptic; Oval; Of An Ellipse;
1485. Effeminate - Having Womanly Traits Containing An Ellipsis
1486. Effervescence - Inner Excitement Or 1514. Elope - Run Away Secretly With The
Exuberance; Showing High Spirits Intention Of Getting Married
1487. Effete - Having Lost One’S Original Power; 1515. Eloquence - Expressiveness; Persuasive
Barren; Worn Out; Exhausted Speech
1488. Efficacious - Effectual 1516. Eloquent - Movingly Expressive; Expressing
1489. Efficacy - Power To Produce Desired Effect Ideas Well So That The Hearers Can Be
1490. Effigy - Dummy; Likeness Of A Person Made Influenced
Of Wood, Paper, Or Stone 1517. Elucidate - Explain; Make Clear; Clarify;
1491. Effluvium - Noxious (Harmful) Smell Enlighten
1492. Effrontery - Rudeness Without Any Sense Of 1518. Elude - Escape From; Escape The
Shame Understanding Or Grasp Of
1493. Effulgent - Shining Brightly; Brilliant 1519. Elusive - Evasive; Not Frank; Baffling; Hard
1494. Effuse- Pour Out To Grasp, Catch, Or Understand
1520. Elysian - Relating To Paradise; Blissful

82
1521. Elysium - Place Or Condition Of Bliss 1548. Emulate - Imitate; Rival; Try To Equal Or
1522. Emaciated - Thin And Wasted (From Hunger Excel
Or Illness) 1549. Enact - Make (A Bill) Into Law
1523. Emanate - Issue Forth; Come Out 1550. Enamor - Inspire With Love
1524. Emancipate - Set Free; Liberate 1551. Enamored - In Love
1525. Emasculate - Weaken; Castrate 1552. Encipher - Encode; Convert A Message Into
1526. Embargo - Ban On Commerce Or Other Code
Activity 1553. Encircle - Surround
1527. Embark - Commence; Go On Board A Boat; 1554. Enclave - Territory Enclosed Within An Alien
Begin A Journey Land
1528. Embed - Enclose; Place In Something; Fix 1555. Encomiastic - Praising; Eulogistic
Firmly In A Surrounding Mass 1556. Encomium - Very High Praise; Eulogy
1529. Embellish - Adorn; Ornament; Enhance As A 1557. Encompass - Surround; Include
Story (By Adding Fictitious Details) 1558. Encroach - Take Another’S Possessions Or
1530. Embezzlement - Taking For One’S Own Use Right Gradually Or Stealthily
In Violation Of Trust; Stealing (Of Money 1559. Encroachment - Gradual Intrusion
Placed In One’S Care) 1560. Encumber - Burden
1531. Embitter - Make Bitter; Fill With Painful Or 1561. Endear - Make Beloved
Bitter Feelings; Make Sad And Angry 1562. Endearment - Fond Word Or Act; Expression
1532. Embody - Give A Bodily Form To; Of Affection
Incorporate; Include 1563. Endemic - Prevailing Among A Specific
1533. Emboss - Produce A Design In Raised Relief; Group Of People Or In A Specific Area
Decorate With A Raised Design 1564. Endorse - Approve; Support; Write One’S
1534. Embrace - Hug; Clasp With The Arms; Adopt Signature On The Back Of
Or Espouse 1565. Endue - Provide With Some Quality; Endow
1535. Embroider - Decorate With Needlework; 1566. Endure - Bear (Pain Or Suffering) For A Long
Ornament (A Story) With Fancy Or Fictitious Time; Remain Alive (In Spite Of Difficulties)
Details; Embellish 1567. Enduring - Lasting; Surviving
1536. Embroil - Throw Into Confusion; Involve In 1568. Energize - Invigorate; Give Energy To; Make
Strife, Dispute Forceful And Active
1537. Embryo - Organism In The Early Stage Of 1569. Enervate - Weaken; Take Away Energy From
Development 1570. Enfranchise - Admit To The Rights Of
1538. Embryonic - Undeveloped; Rudimentary Citizenship (Especially The Right To Vote)
1539. Emend - Correct (Usually A Text) 1571. Engage - Attract; Employ; Hire; Pledge
1540. Emendation - Correction Of Errors; Oneself; Confront; Fight; Enter Into
Improvement Confliction
1541. Emetic - Substance Causing Vomiting 1572. Engaged - Employed; Busy; Betrothed
1542. Eminent - Rising Above Others; High; Lofty; 1573. Engagement - Agreement To Marry;
Distinguished Arrangement To Meet Someone Or To Do
1543. Emissary - Agent (Sent On A Mission To Something
Represent Another); Messenger 1574. Engaging - Charming; Attractive
1544. Emollient - Soothing Or Softening Remedy 1575. Engender - Cause; Produce; Give Rise To
(For The Skin) 1576. Engross - Occupy Fully; Absorb
1545. Emolument - Salary; Payment For An Office; 1577. Engulf - Surround And Swallow Up
Compensation 1578. Enhance - Increase; Make Greater (As In
1546. Empathy - Ability To Identify With Another’S Value, Reputation, Or Usefulness); Improve
Feelings, Ideas 1579. Enigma - Puzzle; Mystery
1547. Empirical - Based On Experience 1580. Enigmatic - Obscure; Puzzling
1581. Enjoin - Command; Order; Forbid

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
83
1582. Enlist - (Cause To) Join The Armed Forces; 1611. Epicurean - Believing That Pleasure Is Good
Obtain (Help, Sympathy, Or Support) And Suffering Is Bad And Should Be Avoided
1583. Enliven - Make Lively Or Spirited; Animate 1612. Epigram - Witty Thought Or Saying, Usually
1584. Enmity - Ill Will; Hatred; Hostility Short
1585. Ennui - Boredom; Dissatisfaction Resulting 1613. Epilogue - Short Speech At Conclusion Of
From Lack Of Interest Dramatic Work
1586. Enormity - Hugeness (In A Bad Sense); 1614. Episodic - (Of A Story Or Play) Loosely
Excessive Wickedness Connected; Made Up Of Separate And
1587. Enrapture - Please Intensely; Fill With Loosely Connected Parts
Rapture And Delight 1615. Epistemologist - Philosopher Who Studies
1588. Ensconce - Settle Comfortably The Nature Of Knowledge
1589. Ensue - Follow (As A Result) 1616. Epitaph - Inscription In Memory Of A Dead
1590. Entail - Make Necessary; Require; Person (As On A Tombstone)
Necessitate; Involve 1617. Epithet - Word Or Phrase Characteristically
1591. Enterprise - Willingness To Take New Used To Describe A Person Or Thing
Ventures; Initiative; Business Organization 1618. Epitome - Perfect Example Or Embodiment;
1592. Enterprising - Full Of Initiative; Showing Brief Summary
Enterprise 1619. Epitomize - Make An Epitome Of
1593. Enthrall - Capture; Enslave; Captivate 1620. Epoch - Period Of Time
1594. Entice - Lure; Persuade To Do (Something 1621. Equable - Tranquil; Of Even Calm Temper;
Wrong) (Of Temperature) Steady; Uniform
1595. Entity - Real Being 1622. Equanimity - Calmness Of Temperament;
1596. Entomology - Study Of Insects Composure
1597. Entourage - Group Of Attendants; Retinue 1623. Equestrian - Rider On Horseback
1598. Entrance - Put Under A Spell(Condition 1624. Equilibrium - Balance Of Opposing Forces
Caused By Magical Power) 1625. Equine - Resembling A Horse
1599. Entreat - Plead; Ask Earnestly 1626. Equinox - Period Of Equal Days And Nights;
1600. Entree - Entrance; A Way In; Right To Enter; The Beginning Of Spring And Autumn
Main Dish Of A Meal 1627. Equipoise - Balance; Balancing Force;
1601. Entrepreneur - Businessperson (Who Equilibrium
Assumes The Risk Of A Business Venture); 1628. Equitable - Fair; Impartial
Contractor 1629. Equity - Fairness; Justice
1602. Enumerate - List; Mention One By One 1630. Equivocal - (Of Words Or Statements)
1603. Enunciate - Announce; Proclaim; Utter Or Ambiguous; Intentionally Misleading
Speak, Pronounce Clearly 1631. Equivocate - Use Equivocal Language To
1604. Environ - Enclose; Surround Deceive People; Lie; Mislead
1605. Environs - Surrounding Area (As Of A City) 1632. Erode - Eat Away; Wear Away Gradually By
1606. Eon - (Aeon) Long Period Of Time; An Age; Abrasion
Longest Division Of Geologic Time 1633. Erotic - Pertaining To Passionate Love Or
Containing Two Or More Eras Sexual Love
1607. Epaulet - (Epaulette) Ornament Worn On The 1634. Errant - Wandering (Esp. In Search Of
Shoulder (Of A Uniform, Etc.) Adventure); Straying From Proper Moral
1608. Ephemeral - Short-Lived; Fleeting Standard
1609. Epic - Long Heroic Poem, Novel, Or Similar 1635. Erratic - Odd; Irregular In Movement Or
Work Of Art (Celebrating The Feats Of A Behavior; Unpredictable
Hero) 1636. Erroneous - Mistaken; Wrong; Incorrect
1610. Epicure - Connoisseur Of Food And Drink; 1637. Erudite - (Of A Person Or Book) Learned;
Gourmet Full Of Learning; Scholarly

84
1638. Escapade - Prank; Flighty Conduct; 1669. Ewe - Female Sheep

Reckless Adventure That Disobeys Rules 1670. Exacerbate - Worsen; Aggravate; Embitter
1639. Eschew - Avoid Habitually 1671. Exact - Demand And Obtain By Force
1640. Esoteric - Hard To Understand; Known Only 1672. Exacting - Extremely Demanding
To The Chosen Few 1673. Exalt - Raise In Rank Or Dignity; Praise
1641. Espionage - Spying Highly; Inspire
1642. Espouse - Adopt; Support (An Idea Or Aim); 1674. Exasperate - Vex; Annoy Or Make Angry (By
Marry Testing The Patience)
1643. Esteem - Respect; Value; Judge 1675. Except - Exclude
1644. Estimable - (Of A Person) Worthy Of Esteem; 1676. Exceptionable - Objectionable; Likely To
Admirable; Deserving Esteem; Possible To Cause Dislike; Offensive
Estimate 1677. Exceptional - Unusual; Of Unusually High
1645. Estrange - Alienate (People In A Family) Quality
1646. Estranged - Separated; Alienated 1678. Excerpt - Selected Passage (Written Or
1647. Ether - Upper Air Musical) Taken From A Longer Work
1648. Ethereal - Like A Spirit Or Fairy; Unearthly 1679. Exchequer - Treasury
Light; Heavenly 1680. Excise - Cut Away; Cut Out
1649. Ethnic - Relating To Races 1681. Exclaim - Cry Out Suddenly
1650. Ethnology - Study Of Humankind; Study Of 1682. Excoriate - Scold With Biting Harshness;
The Different Races Of Human Beings Censure Strongly; Strip The Skin Off
1651. Ethos - Underlying Character Of A Culture, 1683. Exculpate - Clear From Blame Or Guilt
Group 1684. Execrable - Very Bad; Detestable
1652. Etymology - Study Of Word Parts; Study Of 1685. Execrate - Curse; Express Abhorrence For;
The Origins Of Words Detest
1653. Eugenic - Pertaining To The Improvement 1686. Execute - Put Into Effect; Carry Out; Kill As
Of Race A Lawful Punishment
1654. Eugenics - Study Of Hereditary 1687. Executioner - Person Administering Capital
Improvement Of The Human Race Punishment
1655. Eulogistic - Praising; Full Of Eulogy 1688. Executive - Person Having Administrative
1656. Eulogy - Expression Of Praise, Often On The Authority; One Branch Of Government
Occasion Of Someone’S Death Executing Laws
1657. Euphemism - Mild Expression In Place Of 1689. Executor - Person Designated To Execute
An Unpleasant One The Terms Of A Will
1658. Euphony - Sweet Sound 1690. Exegesis - Explanation, Especially Of
1659. Euphoria - Feeling Of Exaggerated Or Well- Biblical(Of The Bible) Passages
Being; Feeling Of Great Happiness 1691. Exemplar - Typical Example; Model
1660. Euthanasia - Mercy Killing 1692. Exemplary - Serving As A Model;
1661. Evade - Avoid (A Duty Or Responsibility) Or Outstanding
Escape From By Deceit 1693. Exemplify - Show By Example; Furnish An
1662. Evanescent - Fleeting; Vanishing; Soon Example
Disappearing 1694. Exempt - Not Subject To A Duty Or
1663. Evasive - Not Frank; Trying To Hide The Obligation; Free From A Duty
Truth; Eluding; Evading 1695. Exertion - Effort; Expenditure Of Much
1664. Evenhanded - Impartial; Fair Physical Work
1665. Eventual - Happening At Last As A Result 1696. Exhale - Breathe Out
1666. Evince - Show Clearly 1697. Exhilarate - Make Cheerful And Excited
1667. Evocative - Tending To Call Up (Emotions, 1698. Exhilarating - Invigorating And Refreshing
Memories) 1699. Exhort - Urge (By Strong Argument Or
1668. Evoke - Call Forth (Memory Or Feeling) Advice)

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
85
1700. Exhume - Dig Out Of The Ground; Remove 1729. Expropriate - Take Possession Of (Often For
From A Grave Public Use And Without Payment)
1701. Exigency - Urgent Situation 1730. Expunge - Cancel; Remove A Word Or Name
1702. Exiguous - Small In Amount; Minute (From A Book Or List); Erase
1703. Exile - Banish; Leave One’S Country 1731. Expurgate - Clean; Remove Offensive Parts
1704. Existential - Pertaining To Existence; Of A Book
Pertaining To The Philosophy Of 1732. Exquisite - Delicate; Very Finely Made;
Existentialism Extremely Beautiful
1705. Exodus - Departure (Of A Large Number Of 1733. Extant - (Of Something Written Or Painted)
People) Still In Existence
1706. Exonerate - Acquit; Exculpate; Free From 1734. Extemporaneous - Not Planned;
Blame Or Guilt Impromptu; Extempore
1707. Exorbitant - (Of Costs Or Demands) 1735. Extenuate - Weaken; Mitigate; Lessen The
Excessive; Exceeding Reasonable Bounds Seriousness Of (Bad Behavior)
1708. Exorcise - Drive Out Evil Spirits 1736. External - Coming From The Outside
1709. Exotic - Not Native; From Another Part Of 1737. Extirpate - Root Up; Uproot; Destroy
The World; Strange; Intriguingly Unusual Completely
1710. Expansive - (Of A Person) Outgoing And 1738. Extol - Praise Very Highly; Glorify
Sociable; Broad And Extensive 1739. Extort - Wring From; Get Money By Threats,
1711. Expatiate - Talk At Length; Speak Or Write In Etc.; Obtain By Force Or Threats
Detail 1740. Extradition - Surrender Of Prisoner By One
1712. Expatriate - Exile; Someone Who Has State To Another
Withdrawn From His Native Land 1741. Extraneous - Not Essential; Irrelevant;
1713. Expedient - Suitable (For A Particular Superfluous
Purpose Although Not Necessarily Morally 1742. Extrapolate - Infer (Unknown Information)
Correct); Practical From Known Information
1714. Expedite - Hasten; Make Go Faster 1743. Extrapolation - Projection; Conjecture
1715. Expeditious - Done With Speed; Quick 1744. Extricate - Free From An Entanglement Or
1716. Expenditure - Payment Or Expense; Difficulty; Disentangle
Expending; Something Expended; Output 1745. Extrinsic - External; Not Essential Or
1717. Expertise - Specialized Knowledge (In A Inherent; Extraneous
Particular Field) 1746. Extrovert - Person Interested Mostly In
1718. Expiate - Make Amends For (A Sin) External Objects And Actions
1719. Expletive - Meaningless Word; Interjection; 1747. Extrude - Force Or Push Out; Thrust Out
Profane Oath; Swear-Word 1748. Exuberance - Overflowing Abundance;
1720. Explicate - Explain In Detail; Interpret; Joyful Enthusiasm
Clarify 1749. Exuberant - High-Spirited And Lively;
1721. Explicit - Totally Clear; Definite; Outspoken Growing Abundantly And Strongly
1722. Exploit - Make Use Of, Sometimes Unjustly 1750. Exude - Flow Out Slowly; Discharge
1723. Expose - Public Revelation Of Something (Gradually)
Discreditable 1751. Exult - Rejoice
1724. Exposition - Explaining; Exhibition
1725. Expository - Explanatory; Serving To Explain
F
1726. Expostulation - Protest; Remonstrance; 1752. Fabricate - Build; Lie; Make Up (A Story) In
Reasoning With Someone To Correct Or Order To Deceive
Dissuade 1753. Facade - Front Or Face (Of Building);
1727. Exposure - Risk, Particularly Of Being Superficial Or False Appearance
Exposed To Disease 1754. Facet - Small Plane Surface (Of A Gem
1728. Expound - Explain (Precious Stone)); A Side

86
1755. Facetious - Joking (Often Inappropriately); 1781. Fastidious - Difficult To Please; Squeamish;
Unserious; Humorous Fussy; Finicky
1756. Facile - Easily Accomplished; Ready Or 1782. Fatal - Causing Death
Fluent; Superficial; Not Deep 1783. Fathom - Comprehend; Investigate;
1757. Facilitate - Help Bring About; Make Less Determine The Depth Of
Difficult 1784. Fathomless - Too Deep To Be Measured Or
1758. Facility - Ability To Do Something Easily And Understood; Unfathomable
Well 1785. Fatuous - Smugly And Unconsciously
1759. Facsimile - Copy Foolish; Inane; Silly
1760. Faction - Party; Clique (Within A Large 1786. Fauna - Animals Of A Period Or Region
Group); Dissension 1787. Favoritism - Display Of Partiality Toward A
1761. Factious - Inclined To Form Factions; Favored Person
Causing Dissension 1788. Fawn - Exhibit Affection As A Dog; Seek
1762. Factitious - Artificial; Produced Artificially; Favor Or Attention By Obsequiousness
Sham; False 1789. Fawning - Courting Favor By Cringing And
1763. Factotum - Handyman; Person Who Does Flattering
All Kinds Of Work 1790. Faze - Disconcert; Dismay; Embarrass
1764. Faculty - Mental Or Bodily Powers; Teaching 1791. Feasible - Practical; Able To Be Carried Out;
Staff Practicable
1765. Fake - Not Genuine 1792. Feature - Distinctive Part Of The Faces (As
1766. Fallacious - False; Based On A Fallacy; The Eyes Or Mouth)
Misleading 1793. Features - Overall Appearance Of The Face
1767. Fallacy - False Idea Or Notion; False 1794. Febrile - Feverish
Reasoning 1795. Fecund - Very Productive Of Crops Or Young
1768. Fallible - Liable To Err 1796. Fecundity - Fertility; Fruitfulness
1769. Fallow - (Of Land) Plowed But Not Sowed 1797. Feebleminded - Deficient In Intelligence;
(To Improve The Quality); Uncultivated Very Stupid
1770. Falsify - Make (Something Written) False By 1798. Feign - Pretend
Changing 1799. Feint - Trick; Shift; Sham Blow; Feigned
1771. Falter - Hesitate; Weaken In Purpose Or Attack To Draw Away Defensive Action
Action; Walk Or Move Unsteadily Through 1800. Felicitous - (Of A Word Or Remark) Apt;
Weakness Suitably Expressed; Well Chosen
1772. Fanaticism - Excessive Zeal; Extreme 1801. Felicity - Happiness; Appropriateness (Of A
Devotion To A Belief Or Cause Remark, Choice, Etc.)
1773. Fancied - Imagined; Unreal 1802. Feline - Of A Member Of The Cat Family
1774. Fancier - Breeder Or Dealer Of Animals; One 1803. Fell - Cut Or Knock Down (A Tree Or A
Who Has A Special Interest, As For Raising Person)
Specific Plant Or Animal 1804. Felon - Person Convicted Of A Grave Crime
1775. Fanciful - Whimsical; Visionary; Imaginary 1805. Felony - Serious Crime
1776. Fancy - Imagination (Of A Whimsical Or 1806. Feral - (Of An Animal) Not Domestic; Wild
Fantastic Nature) 1807. Ferment - Agitation; Commotion(Noisy And
1777. Fanfare - Call By Bugles Or Trumpets; Excited Activity)
Showy Display; Spectacular Public Display 1808. Fermentation - Chemical Reaction That
1778. Farce - Broad Comedy; Mockery; Humorous Splits Complex Organic Compounds;
Play Full Of Silly Things Happening Agitation
1779. Far-Fetched - Too Improbable To Be 1809. Ferocious - Fierce; Violent
Believed; Implausible 1810. Ferret - Drive Or Hunt Out Of Hiding; Hunt
1780. Fashion - Give Shape To; Make With Ferrets

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
87
1811. Fertile - Producing Many Young, Fruits, Or 1842. Finish - Surface Texture; Completeness Of
Seeds; (Of Land) Producing Good Crops Execution
1812. Fervent - Ardent; Zealous; Hot 1843. Finished - Properly Made And Complete
1813. Fervid - Ardent; Zealous; Hot 1844. Finite - Limited
1814. Fervor - Glowing Ardor; Intensity Of Feeling 1845. Firebrand - Piece Of Burning Wood;
1815. Fester - Rankle; Produce Irritation Or Hothead; Troublemaker
Resentment 1846. Fissure - Crevice; Crack
1816. Festive - Joyous; Celebratory; Relating To A 1847. Fit - Sudden Outburst Of An Illness Or
Feast Or Festival Feeling; Convulsion Caused By Epilepsy
1817. Fete - Honor At A Festival; Celebrate Or 1848. Fitful - Spasmodic; Intermittent; Irregular
Honor With A Feast 1849. Flaccid - Flabby; Lacking Firmness; Weak
1818. Fetid - Malodorous; Foul 1850. Flag - Droop; Grow Feeble; Decline In Vigor
1819. Fetish - Object Believed To Have Spiritual Or Strength
Powers 1851. Flagrant - Conspicuously Wicked, Bad, Or
1820. Fetter - Shackle; Restrict The Freedom Of Offensive; Blatant
1821. Feud - Bitter Prolonged Quarrel (Usually 1852. Flail - Beat With Or As If With A Flail; Move
Between Two Peoples Or Families) Wildly
1822. Fiasco - Total Failure 1853. Flair - Talent
1823. Fiat - Command; Arbitrary Order 1854. Flamboyant - Ornate; Highly Elaborate;
1824. Fickle - Changeable (In Affections Or Richly Colored
Friendship) 1855. Flashy - Showy; Gaudy; Giving A Momentary
1825. Fictitious - Imaginary; Non-Existent; Brilliance
Purposely Invented To Deceive 1856. Flaunt - Display Ostentatiously
1826. Fidelity - Loyalty; Accuracy 1857. Flay - Strip Off Skin; Plunder; Remove The
1827. Fiend - Evil Spirit; Devil Skin From; Criticize Harshly
1828. Figment - Invention; Something Invented; 1858. Fleck - Spot; Mark With Flecks
Imaginary Thing 1859. Fledgling - (Fledglings) Inexperienced
1829. Figurative - Not Literal But Metaphorical; 1860. Fleece - Wool Coat Of A Sheep
Using A Figure(Impression) Of Speech 1861. Fleet - Fast; Rapid
1830. Figure - Written Symbols; Number; Amount 1862. Fleeting - Passing Quickly; Ephemeral
Represented In Numbers 1863. Flick - Light Stroke As With A Whip
1831. Figurine - Small Ornamental Statuette(Very 1864. Flicker - Burn Unsteadily Or Fitfully; Move
Small Statue) Waveringly
1832. Filch - Steal (Things Of Small Value) 1865. Flighty - (Esp. Of A Woman’S Behavior)
1833. Filial - Pertaining To Or Befitting A Son Or Capricious; Often Changing
Daughter 1866. Flinch - Hesitate; Shrink Back (In Fear Of
1834. Filibuster - Block Legislation Or Prevent Something Unpleasant)
Action In A Lawmaking Body By Making 1867. Flip - Send (Something) Spinning, Often
Very Slow Long Speeches Into The Air
1835. Filigree - Delicate Ornamental Lacelike 1868. Flippant - Lacking Proper Seriousness
Metalwork 1869. Flippant - Self-Indulgently Carefree;
1836. Filing - Particle Removed By A File Unworthy Of Serious Attention
1837. Filth - Dirty Matter 1870. Flirt - Behave In A Way That Attracts
1838. Finale - Conclusion; Concluding Part (Sexual) Attention
1839. Finery - Beautiful Clothes For A Special 1871. Flit - Fly; Fly Or Move Lightly Or Quickly;
Occasion Dart Lightly
1840. Finesse - Delicate Skill 1872. Floe - Flat Mass Of Floating Ice
1841. Finicky - Too Particular; Fussy; Difficult To 1873. Flora - Plants Of A Region Or Era
Please

88
1874. Florescence - Condition Or Period Of 1901. Forbear - Refrain From (In A Generous And
Flowering Forgiving Way); Be Patient
1875. Florid - Ruddy; (Of A Complexion) Reddish; 1902. Forbearance - Patience; Forgiveness
Flowery; Very Ornate 1903. Ford - Place Where A River Can Be Crossed
1876. Flotsam - Drifting Wreckage On Foot
1877. Flounder - Struggle And Thrash About; 1904. Forebears - (Forbears) Ancestors
Proceed Clumsily 1905. Forebode - Be A Warning Of (Something
1878. Flourish - Grow Well; Prosper; Make Unpleasant)
Sweeping Gestures 1906. Foreboding - Premonition Of Evil; Feeling Of
1879. Flout - Reject; Mock; Show Contempt For; Coming Evil
Scorn 1907. Forensic - Suitable To Debate Or Courts Of
1880. Flowery - Full Of Flowers; Full Of Ornate Law
Expressions 1908. Forerunner - Predecessor; One That Comes
1881. Fluctuate - Waver; Shift; Rise And Fall As If Before And Indicates The Approach Of
In Waves Another
1882. Fluency - Smoothness Of Speech 1909. Foreshadow - Give An Indication
1883. Fluke - Unlikely Occurrence; Stroke Of Beforehand; Be A Sign Of (What Is Coming);
Fortune; Accidental Stroke Of Good Luck Portend; Prefigure
1884. Flush - Redden; Blush; Flow Suddenly And 1910. Foresight - Ability To Foresee Future
Abundantly Happenings; Prudence In Providing For The
1885. Fluster - Confuse; Make Nervous And Future
Confused 1911. Forestall - Prevent By Taking Action In
1886. Flute - Long Rounded Groove Incised On Advance
The Shaft Of A Column 1912. Forfeit - Something Surrendered As
1887. Flute - Make Long Parallel Inward Curves In Punishment For A Crime Or Breach Of
1888. Fluted - Having Vertical Parallel Grooves Contract
1889. Flutter - (Of A Bird With Large Wings) Wave 1913. Forge - Counterfeit; Reproduce Fraudulently
(The Wings) Lightly, Rapidly, And Irregularly 1914. Forgo - (Forego) Give Up; Do Without
1890. Flux - Flowing; Series Of Changes; 1915. Forlorn - Sad And Lonely; Wretched;
Fluctuation Desolate
1891. Fodder - Coarse Food For Cattle, Horses, 1916. Formality - Ceremonious Quality;
Etc Ceremonious Adherence To Rules
1892. Foible - Small Weakness Of Character; 1917. Formidable - Menacing; Arousing Fear;
Slight Fault Threatening; Difficult To Defeat
1893. Foil - Defeat; Frustrate; Prevent From Being 1918. Forsake - Desert; Abandon; Renounce
Successful 1919. Forswear - Renounce Under Oath; Abandon;
1894. Foist - Insert Improperly; Impose Upon Make A Solemn Promise To Give Up
Another By Coercion 1920. Forte - Strong Point Or Special Talent In A
1895. Foliage - Masses Of Leaves Person’S Character
1896. Foment - Stir Up; Incite; Instigate; Promote 1921. Forthcoming - Happening In The Near
The Growth Of (Something Evil Or Future; Ready; Willing To Help
Unpleasant) 1922. Forthright - Straightforward; Direct; Frank
1897. Foolhardy - Rash; Reckless; Foolishly Daring 1923. Fortitude - Bravery; Courage; Strength Of
1898. Fop - Man Who Takes Too Much Interest In Mind
His Clothes And Appearance 1924. Fortuitous - Accidental; By Chance
1899. Foppish - Vain About Dress And 1925. Forum - Public Square Of An Ancient
Appearance Roman City; Public Place For Open
1900. Foray - Raid; Sudden Raid Or Military Discussion
Advance 1926. Forward - Presumptuous Or Bold

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
89
1927. Foster - Rear; Bring Up (For A Certain 1959. Fruition - Bearing Of Fruit; Fulfillment;
Period Only); Encourage Realization
1928. Foul - Very Bad Or Disagreeable; Very Dirty 1960. Frustrate - Thwart; Defeat; Prevent From
1929. Founder - Person Who Establishes (An Accomplishing A Purpose
Organization Or Business) 1961. Fuddle - Make Stupid Or Confused As With
1930. Fracas - Brawl(Noisy Quarrel Or Fight) In Alcoholic Drink
Which A Number Of People Take Part 1962. Fugitive - Fleeting Or Transitory; Lasting
1931. Fractious - Unruly; Peevish; Cranky; Bad- Only A Short Time
Tempered 1963. Fulcrum - Support On Which A Lever Rests
1932. Frail - Weak Or Pivots
1933. Franchise - Right Or Privilege Granted By 1964. Fulminate - Thunder; Explode; Issue A
Authority; Right To Vote Severe Denunciation
1934. Frantic - Wild; Distraught As From Fear Or 1965. Fulsome - Disgustingly Excessive;
Worry Offensively Flattering
1935. Fraudulent - Cheating; Deceitful 1966. Fumble - Move The Fingers And Hands
1936. Fraught - Filled (With Something Awkwardly (In Search Of Something)
Unpleasant); Full 1967. Functional - Made For Practical Use Only
1937. Fray - Brawl; Fight (Without Decoration)
1938. Freebooter - Pirate Or Plunderer Who 1968. Functionary - Official (Who Performs A
Makes War In Order To Grow Rich Particular Function)
1939. Frenetic - Frenzied; Frantic 1969. Fundamental - Basic; Primary; Essential
1940. Frenzied - Madly Excited 1970. Funereal - Sad; Solemn; Suitable For A
1941. Frenzy - Violent Wild Excitement Funeral
1942. Fresco - Painting On Wet Plaster (Usually 1971. Furor - Frenzy; Great Anger And Excitement
Fresh) 1972. Furrow - Long Shallow Trench Made By A
1943. Fret - Be Annoyed Or Vexed Plow; Deep Wrinkle In The Skin
1944. Friction - Clash Or Conflict In Opinion; 1973. Furtive - Stealthy; Quiet And Secret (Trying
Rubbing Against To Escape Notice)
1945. Frieze - Ornamental Horizontal Band On A 1974. Fusillade - Simultaneous Firing Or Outburst
Wall (Of Missiles, Questions, Etc.)
1946. Frigid - Intensely Cold; Cold In Manner 1975. Fusion - Union; Coalition
1947. Fringe - Decorative Edge Of Hanging 1976. Fuss - Trouble Or Worry Over Trifles; Make
Threads; Edge Nervous
1948. Frisk - Move About Playfully; Frolic 1977. Fussy - Fastidious; Finicky; Easily Upset
1949. Fritter - Waste (Time Or Money On 1978. Futile - Useless; Hopeless; Ineffectual
Unimportant Things)
1950. Frivolous - Lacking In Seriousness
G
1951. Frock - Long Loose Garment (Worn By 1979. Gadfly - Animal-Biting Fly; Irritating Person
Monks) 1980. Gaffe - Social Blunder
1952. Frolic - Play And Jump About Happily; Frisk 1981. Gainsay - Deny
1953. Frolicsome - Prankish; Gay; Playful; Merry; 1982. Gait - Manner Of Walking Or Running; Speed
Frisky 1983. Galaxy - Large Isolated System Of Stars,
1954. Frond - Fern Leaf; Palm Or Banana Leaf Such As The Milky Way
1955. Fructify - Bear Fruit; Produce Fruit 1984. Gale - Windstorm; Gust Of Wind; Emotional
1956. Frugal - Practicing Economy; Costing Little; Outburst (Laughter, Tears)
Inexpensive 1985. Gall - Annoy; Exasperate; Chafe
1957. Frugality - Thrift; Economy 1986. Galleon - Large Three-Masted Sailing Ship
1958. Fruitful - Producing Results; Profitable; 1987. Galley - Low Ship With Sails (Rowed Along
Prolific; Producing In Abundance By Slaves)

90
1988. Gallows - Framework From Which A Noose 2018. Geniality - Cheerfulness; Kindliness;
Is Suspended (Used For Execution By Sympathy
Hanging) 2019. Genre - Particular Variety Of Art Or
1989. Galvanic - Of The Production Of Electricity Literature
By The Action Of An Acid On A Metal 2020. Genteel - Well-Bred; Elegant
1990. Galvanize - Stimulate Or Shock By An 2021. Gentility - Those Of Gentle Birth; High Social
Electric Current; Stimulate By Shock Class
1991. Gambit - Opening In Chess In Which A 2022. Gentle - Kindly; Soft; Mild; Of Good Family
Piece Is Sacrificed 2023. Gentry - People Of Standing(Rank Or
1992. Gambol - Romp; Skip About; Leap About Position)
Playfully; Frolic 2024. Genuflect - Bend The Knee As In Worship
1993. Gamely - In A Spirited Manner; With Courage 2025. Genus - Division Of Animals Or Plants,
1994. Gamut - Entire Range Below A Family And Above A Species
1995. Gangrene - Decay Of Body Tissue Caused By 2026. Geriatrics - Medical Treatment And Care Of
Insufficient Blood Supply Old Age
1996. Gape - Open Widely; Open The Mouth Wide 2027. Germ - Earliest Form Of An Organism; Seed
1997. Garble - Distort A Message To Make Or Bud
Misleading 2028. Germane - Pertinent; Appropriate
1998. Garbled - Mixed Up; Jumbled; Distorted 2029. Germinal - Pertaining To A Germ; Creative
1999. Gargantuan - Huge; Enormous; Gigantic 2030. Germinate - Cause To Sprout; Sprout
2000. Gargoyle - Waterspout Carved In Grotesque 2031. Gerontocracy - Government Ruled By Old
Figures On A Building People
2001. Garish - Over Bright In Color 2032. Gerontology - Study Of The Sociological
2002. Garner - Gather; Store Up; Amass State Associated With Old Age
2003. Garnish - Decorate; Decorate (Food Or 2033. Gerrymander - Change Voting District Lines
Drink) With Small Items To Favor A Political Party
2004. Garrulous - Loquacious; Wordy; Talkative 2034. Gestate - Evolve As In Prenatal Growth
2005. Gastronomy - Art And Science Of Preparing 2035. Gestation - Period Of Development From
And Serving Good Food Conception Until Birth
2006. Gauche - Clumsy (In Social Behavior); 2036. Gesticulate - Make Gestures (While
Coarse And Uncouth Speaking)
2007. Gaudy - Flashy; Showy 2037. Gesticulation - Motion; Gesture
2008. Gaunt - Lean And Angular; Thin And Bony; 2038. Ghastly - Horrible; Terrifying; Resembling
Emaciated; Barren Ghosts
2009. Gavel - Hammer Like Tool; Mallet Used By A 2039. Gibberish - Nonsense; Nonsensical Or
Presiding Officer Unintelligible Talk Or Writing; Babbling
2010. Gawk - Stare Foolishly; Look In Open- 2040. Gibe - Mock; Make Jeering Remarks
Mouthed Awe 2041. Giddy - Light-Hearted; Not Serious;
2011. Gazette - Official Periodical Publication Frivolous; Dizzy; Causing Dizziness
2012. Genealogy - Record Of Descent; Lineage; 2042. Gild - Cover With A Thin Layer Of Gold
Ancestry; Study Of Ancestry 2043. Gingerly - Very Carefully
2013. Generality - Vague Statement; General 2044. Girth - Distance Around Something;
Statement Which Is Not Detailed Circumference
2014. Generate - Cause; Produce; Create 2045. Gist - Essence; Main Point; Substance
2015. Generic - Characteristic Of An Entire Class 2046. Glacial - Like A Glacier; Of An Ice Age;
Or Species; Of A Genus Extremely Cold
2016. Genesis - Beginning; Origin 2047. Glamour - Compelling Charm
2017. Genial - Cheerful And Good-Tempered 2048. Glare - Shine Intensely And Blindingly;
Stare Fixedly And Angrily

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
91
2049. Glaring - (Of Something Bad) Highly 2082. Gracious - Kind In A Generous Way (To
Conspicuous; Harshly Bright Someone Less Important)
2050. Glaze - Cover With A Thin And Shiny 2083. Gradation - Series Of Gradual Stages;
Surface; Apply A Glaze To Degree In Such A Progression
2051. Gleam - Brief Flash Of Light; Glow 2084. Graduate - Arrange Into Categories Or
2052. Glean - Gather Leavings; Gather Grain Left Grades
Behind By Reapers 2085. Graduated - Arranged By Degrees (Of
2053. Glib - Fluent (With Insincerity Or Height, Difficulty, Etc.)
Superficiality); Facile; Slick 2086. Granary - Storehouse For Grain
2054. Glimmer - Shine Erratically; Twinkle 2087. Grandeur - Impressiveness; Stateliness;
2055. Glitter - Shine Brightly With Flashing Points Majesty
Of Light 2088. Grandiloquent - (Of A Person Or Speech)
2056. Gloat - Express Evil Satisfaction Using High Sounding Words
2057. Gloss - Brief Explanation Note Or 2089. Grandiose - Affectedly Grand; Pretentious;
Translation Of A Difficult Expression High-Flown
2058. Gloss - Over Explain Away With The 2090. Granulate - Form Into Grains Or Granules
Intention Of Deceiving Or Hiding Faults 2091. Granule - Grain Or Particle
2059. Gloss - Shiny Brightness On A Surface; 2092. Graphic - Pertaining To The Art Of
Superficially Attractive Appearance Delineating; Vividly Described
2060. Glossary - Brief Explanation Of Words Used 2093. Graphite - Black Form Of Carbon Used In
In The Text Lead Pencils
2061. Glossy - Smooth And Shining 2094. Grapple - Wrestle; Come To Grips With
2062. Glow - Shine Brightly Without A Flame (As 2095. Grate - Make A Harsh Noise; Have An
Of Eyes Or Metals) Unpleasant Effect
2063. Glower - Scowl; Glare; Look Or Stare Angrily 2096. Gratify - Please; Satisfy
2064. Glut - Overstock; Fill Beyond Capacity (With 2097. Gratis - Free; Without Charge
Food) 2098. Gratuitous - Given Freely; Unwarranted
2065. Glutinous - Sticky; Viscous; Gluey 2099. Gratuity - Money Given To Those Who Has
2066. Glutton - Someone Who Eats Too Much Done One A Service; Tip
2067. Gluttonous - Given To Gluttony; Greedy 2100. Gravity - Seriousness
2068. Gluttony - Habit Of Eating Too Much 2101. Graze - (Of An Animal) Feed On Growing
2069. Gnarl - Protruding Knot On A Tree Grass
2070. Gnarled - Twisted 2102. Gregarious - Sociable; (Of An Animal)
2071. Gnome - Dwarf; Underground Spirit Who Tending To Form A Group
Guards Treasure Hoards 2103. Grievance - Cause Of Complaint; Complaint
2072. Goad - Urge On; Drive With A Goad 2104. Grill - Question Severely; Cook On A Grill
2073. Gobble - Eat Very Quickly 2105. Grim - Causing Great Fear; Unrelenting;
2074. Gore - Blood (From A Wound) Determined In Spite Of Fear
2075. Gorge - Stuff Oneself (With Food); Glut 2106. Grimace - Facial Distortion To Show Feeling
2076. Gorgeous - Dazzlingly Beautiful Such As Pain, Disgust
2077. Gory - Bloody 2107. Grisly - Ghastly; Horrifying
2078. Gossamer - Sheer; Very Light; Like 2108. Groom - Man Employed To Take Care Of
Cobwebs Horses
2079. Gouge - Overcharge (With High Price) 2109. Groove - Long Narrow Channel Made To
2080. Gourmand - Epicure; Person Who Takes Guide The Movement Of Something
Excessive Pleasure In Food 2110. Gross - Total; Fragrant; Clearly Wrong; (Of
2081. Gourmet - Connoisseur Of Food And Drink; People’S Behavior) Coarse
Epicure 2111. Grotesque - Fantastic, Strange And
Unnatural (Causing Fear Or Amusement)

92
2112. Grotto - Small Cavern 2146. Hale - Healthy

2113. Grouch - Bad-Tempered Complaint; Person 2147. Halfhearted - Exhibiting Little Interest Or
Who Keeps Complaining Enthusiasm
2114. Grouse - Complain; Fuss; Grumble; Grouch 2148. Hallow - Set Apart As Holy
2115. Grovel - Crawl Or Creep On Ground; Behave 2149. Hallowed - Blessed; Consecrated
In A Servile Manner 2150. Hallucination - Delusion; False Idea; False
2116. Growl - Low, Guttural, Menacing Sound (As Perception Of Objects With A Compelling
Of A Dog) Sense Of Their Reality
2117. Grudge - Deep Feeling Of Dislike 2151. Halt - Proceed Or Act With Uncertainty;
2118. Grudging - Unwilling; Reluctant; Falter; Hesitate; Waver
Stingy(Giving Reluctantly) 2152. Halting - Hesitant; Faltering; Not Fluent
2119. Gruel - Thin Liquid Porridge 2153. Hamper - Obstruct; Prevent The Free
2120. Grueling - Exhausting Movement Of
2121. Gruesome - Grisly; Horrible 2154. Handsome - Large In Quantity; Generous
2122. Gruff - Rough-Mannered; (Of A Voice) 2155. Hap - Chance; Luck
Rough; Hoarse 2156. Haphazard - Random; By Chance;
2123. Grumble - Complain; Mutter Discontentedly; Happening In An Unplanned Manner
Grouch 2157. Hapless - Unfortunate; Luckless
2124. Grunt - Utter A Deep Guttural Sound (As A 2158. Harangue - Long, Passionate, And
Pig Does) Vehement Speech
2125. Guffaw - Boisterous Laughter 2159. Harass - Annoy By Repeated Attacks
2126. Guile - Deceit; Duplicity; Wiliness; Cunning 2160. Harbinger - Forerunner (Which
2127. Guileless - Without Deceit Foreshadows What Is To Come)
2128. Guise - Outward Appearance; Costume 2161. Harbor - Give Protection (By Giving Food
2129. Gull - Trick; Deceive; Hoodwink And Shelter); Provide A Refuge For
2130. Gullible - Easily Deceived 2162. Hardy - (Of People Or Animals) Sturdy;
2131. Gush - (Of Liquid) Pour Out In Large Robust; (Of Plants) Able To Stand
Quantities From A Hole Inclement(Stormy) Weather
2132. Gust - Strong Abrupt Rush Of Wind 2163. Harp - Dwell On (Think Or Speak A Lot
2133. Gustatory - Affecting Or Relating To The About) Tediously
Sense Of Taste 2164. Harping - Tiresome Dwelling On A Subject
2134. Gusto - Eager Enjoyment; Zest; Enthusiasm 2165. Harrow - Break Up And Level (Soil) With A
2135. Gusty - Windy Harrow; Inflict Great Distress On; Agonize
2136. Guy - Cable Or Chain Attached To 2166. Harrowing - Agonizing; Distressing;
Something That Needs To Be Braced Traumatic
2137. Gyroscope - Apparatus Used To Maintain 2167. Harry - Harass, Annoy, Torment (By
Balance And To Ascertain Direction Repeated Attacks); Raid
H 2168. Hatch - Deck Opening; Lid Covering A Deck
Opening
2138. Habitat - Natural Home Of A Plant Or Animal 2169. Haughtiness - Pride; Arrogance
2139. Habituate - Accustom Or Familiarize; Addict 2170. Haunt - (Of A Spirit) Visit (A Place); Come To
2140. Hackles - Hairs On Back And Neck, Mind Continually; Visit (A Place) Regularly;
Especially Of A Dog Frequent
2141. Hackneyed - Commonplace; Trite 2171. Haven - Place Of Safety; Refuge; Harbor
2142. Haggard - Wasted Away; Gaunt 2172. Havoc - Widespread Damage; Disorder;
2143. Haggle - Argue About Prices (In An Attempt Chaos
To Bargain) 2173. Hazard - Venture; Put In Danger; Risk
2144. Hail - Frozen Rain Drop 2174. Hazardous - Dangerous
2145. Halcyon - Calm; Peaceful

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
93
2175. Haze - Light Mist Or Smoke; Confused State 2203. Hew - Cut To Pieces With Ax Or Sword;
Of Mind Chop
2176. Hazy - Slightly Obscure; Misty; Unclear 2204. Heyday - Time Of Greatest Success Or
2177. Headfirst - Moving With The Head Leading; Power; Prime
Headlong 2205. Hiatus - Gap; Pause; Gap Or Interruption In
2178. Headlong - Hasty; Rash; Headfirst Space Or Time; Break
2179. Headstrong - Willful; Stubborn; Unyielding; 2206. Hibernal - Wintry; Wintry; Of Or Like Winter
Determined To Have One’S Own Way 2207. Hibernate - Sleep Throughout The Winter
2180. Healthful - Conducive To Good Health 2208. Hide - Skin Of An Animal
2181. Healthy - Possessing Good Health; 2209. Hideous - Repulsive To The Sight; Ugly;
Healthful Repugnant
2182. Heckle - Verbally Harass As With Gibes (By 2210. Hierarchy - Arrangement By Rank Or
Interrupting A Speaker Or Speech) Standing; Authoritarian Body Divided Into
2183. Heckler - Person Who Verbally Harasses Ranks
Others 2211. Hieroglyphic - Picture Writing
2184. Hedonism - Practice Of Living One’S Life 2212. High-Flown - Highly Pretentious Or Inflated
Purely For Pleasure 2213. Hilarious - Full Of Laughter
2185. Hedonist - One Who Believes That Pleasure 2214. Hilarity - Boisterous Mirth(Merriment;
Is The Sole Aim In Life Laughter)
2186. Heed - Pay Attention To 2215. Hindmost - Furthest Behind; Farthest To
2187. Heedless - Not Noticing; Disregarding The Rear
2188. Hegemony - Dominance Especially Of One 2216. Hindrance - Block; Obstacle
Nation Over Others 2217. Hindsight - Understanding The Nature Of
2189. Heinous - Atrocious; Wicked; Hatefully Bad An Event After It Has Actually Happened
2190. Helm - Steering Wheel Of A Ship; Position 2218. Hinterlands - Back Country; Inner Part Of A
Of Control Country
2191. Hem - Surround Tightly So That Movement 2219. Hireling - One Who Serves For Hire (Usually
Is Impossible Used Contemptuously)
2192. Herald - Messenger; Sign Of Something To 2220. Hirsute - Hairy; Having A Lot Of Hair
Come 2221. Historic - Important In History
2193. Herbivorous - Grain-Eating 2222. Historical - Connected With History
2194. Herd - Group Of Animals; Crowd; One Who 2223. Histrionic - Theatrical; Excessively
Looks After A Herd Dramatic, Affected; Of Actors Or Acting
2195. Hereafter - Life After Death 2224. Hive - Box For Bees
2196. Heresy - Opinion Contrary To Popular 2225. Hoard - Stockpile; Accumulate For Future
Belief; Opinion Contrary To Accepted Use
Religion 2226. Hoary - White With Age
2197. Hermetic - Concerning Alchemy Or Magic; 2227. Hoax - Trick Which Makes Someone Take
Obscure And Mysterious; Occult Action; Practical Joke
2198. Hermitage - Home Of A Hermit 2228. Holocaust - Destruction By Fire
2199. Herpetologist - One Who Studies Reptiles 2229. Holster - Leather Pistol Case (That Hangs
2200. Herpetology - Branch Of Zoology That Deals On A Belt Around The Waist)
With Reptiles And Amphibians 2230. Homage - Honor; Tribute; Great Respect
2201. Heterodox - (Of Beliefs) Against Accepted 2231. Homely - Not Good-Looking; Unattractive
Opinion; Unorthodox; Unconventional 2232. Homeostasis - Tendency Of A System Or
2202. Heterogeneous - Dissimilar; Mixed; Not Organism To Maintain Relative Stability Or
Homogeneous; Consisting Of Dissimilar Internal Equilibrium
Elements Or Plants 2233. Homespun - Domestic; Made At Home;
Spun Or Woven At Home; Simple

94
2234. Homily - Sermon; Tedious Moralizing 2262. Humus - Substance Or Rich Soil Formed By
Lecture; Serious Warning Decaying Vegetable Matter
2235. Homogeneous - Of The Same Kind; Uniform 2263. Hurl - Throw Forcefully; Shout Out Violently
In Composition Throughout 2264. Hurtle - Crash; Rush
2236. Hone - Sharpen (A Tool) 2265. Husband - Use Sparingly; Conserve; Save
2237. Hoodwink - Deceive; Delude 2266. Husbandry - Frugality; Thrift; Economy;
2238. Horde - Crowd; Swarm Agriculture
2239. Horoscope - Diagram Of The Positions Of 2267. Hut - Crude Dwelling; Shack
Stars At A Given Moment (Eg. Of A Person’S 2268. Hybrid - Mongrel; Mixed Breed
Birth) Used By Astrologers 2269. Hydrophobia - Fear Of Water; Rabies
2240. Hortatory - Encouraging; Extortive; Marked 2270. Hygiene - Science And Practice Of The
By Exhortation Promotion And Preservation Of Health
2241. Horticultural - Pertaining To Cultivation Of 2271. Hygienic - Showing Careful Attention To
Gardens Cleanness (To Prevent Disease)
2242. Horticulture - Science Or Art Of Cultivating 2272. Hyperbole - Exaggeration; Overstatement
Fruits, Vegetables, Or Ornamental Plants 2273. Hyperbolic - Of Hyperbole; Of A Hyperbola
2243. Hostage - Person Who Is Kept As A Prisoner 2274. Hypercritical - Excessively Exacting; Too
By An Enemy So That The Other Side Will Do Critical
What The Enemy Demands 2275. Hypnosis - Induced Sleeping State
2244. Hostility - Unfriendliness; Hatred; Enmity 2276. Hypochondria - Neurosis That One Is Or Is
2245. Hothead - Person Who Does Things Too Becoming Ill
Quickly Without Thinking 2277. Hypochondriac - Person Unduly Worried
2246. Hovel - Shack; Small Wretched House About His Health; Worrier Without Cause
2247. Hover - Hang About; (Of Birds Or Aircraft) About Illness
Stay In The Air In One Place; (Of People) 2278. Hypocrisy - Profession Of Beliefs One Does
Wait Nearby Not Possess
2248. Hubbub - Confused Uproar; Loud Noise; Din 2279. Hypocritical - Pretending To Be Virtuous;
2249. Hubris - Arrogance; Excessive Self-Conceit Deceiving
2250. Hue And Cry - Outcry; Loud Cry Or Clamor; 2280. Hypothetical - Based On Assumptions Or
Strong Protest Hypotheses
2251. Hue - Color; Aspect 2281. Hysteria - Excessive Or Uncontrollable
2252. Hull - Husk; Dry Outer Covering Of A Seed; Excitement
Frame Or Body Of A Ship 2282. Hysteric - Person Suffering From Hysteria
2253. Humane - Marked By Kindness Or 2283. Hysterics - Attack Of Hysteria
Consideration; Kind And Compassionate;
Humanitarian
I
2254. Humanitarian - One Devoted To The 2284. Ichthyo - Fish
Promotion Of Human Welfare 2285. Ichthyology - Study Of Fish
2255. Humble - Of Low Rank Or Position; Modest; 2286. Icon - Religious Image; Idol; Image Or
Having A Low Opinion Of Oneself And A Representation
High Opinion Of Others 2287. Iconoclast - One Who Attacks Traditional
2256. Humdrum - Dull; Monotonous Ideas; One Who Destroys Sacred Images
2257. Humid - Damp 2288. Iconoclastic - Attacking Cherished
2258. Humiliate - Make Humble; Cause To Feel Traditions
Ashamed Or To Lose The Respect Of Others 2289. Ideology - System Of Ideas Characteristic
2259. Humility - Humbleness Of Spirit Of A Group Or Culture
2260. Hummock - Small Hill; Hillock 2290. Idiom - Expression Whose Meaning As A
2261. Humor - Indulge; Comply With The Wishes Whole Differs From The Meanings Of Its
Of Individual Words

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
95
2291. Idiosyncrasy - Individual Trait Usually Odd 2323. Impartial - Not Biased; Fair
In Nature; Behavioral Peculiarity; 2324. Impassable - Not Able To Be Traveled Or
Eccentricity Crossed
2292. Idle - Not Working; Not Employed Or Busy; 2325. Impasse - Predicament(Dangerous
Lazy Condition) From Which There Is No Escape
2293. Idolatry - Worship Of Idols; Excessive 2326. Impassioned - (Of Speech) Filled With
Admiration Or Devotion Passion; Fervent
2294. Idyll - Short Poem Idealizing Rural Life 2327. Impassive - Without Feeling;
2295. Idyllic - Charmingly Carefree; Simple And Expressionless; Imperturbable; Stoical
Happy 2328. Impeach - Charge (A Public Official) With
2296. Igneous - Produced By Fire; Of Fire; Crime In Office
Volcanic 2329. Impeccable - Faultless
2297. Ignite - Kindle; Light; Catch Fire Or Set Fire 2330. Impecunious - Without Money
To 2331. Impede - Hide; Retard Or Obstruct The
2298. Ignoble - Unworthy; Not Noble; Progress Of; Block
Dishonorable 2332. Impediment - Hindrance; Stumbling-Block
2299. Ignominy - Deep Disgrace; Shame Or 2333. Impel - Drive Or Force Onward; Drive To
Dishonor Take Action; Urge To Action
2300. Illicit - Illegal 2334. Impending - Nearing; Approaching; About
2301. Illimitable - Infinite; Limitless To Happen
2302. Illuminate - Brighten; Clear Up Or Make 2335. Impenetrable - Not Able To Be Pierced Or
Understandable; Enlighten; Enable To Entered
Understand 2336. Impenitent - Not Repentant
2303. Illusion - Misleading Vision Or Visual Image 2337. Imperative - Absolutely Necessary; That
2304. Illusive - Deceiving; Based On Illusion Must Be Done
2305. Illusory - Illusive; Deceptive; Not Real 2338. Imperceptible - Unnoticeable; Impossible
2306. Imbalance - Lack Of Balance Or Symmetry; To Perceive; Undetectable
Disproportion 2339. Imperial - Like An Emperor; Related To An
2307. Imbecile - Stupid Person; Fool Empire
2308. Imbecility - Weakness Of Mind 2340. Imperil - Put In Danger
2309. Imbibe - Drink In 2341. Imperious - Domineering; Too
2310. Imbroglio - Complicated Situation (As In A Commanding; Haughty
Play) 2342. Impermeable - Impervious; Not Permitting
2311. Imbue - Saturate(Soak Thoroughly); Fill Passage Through Its Substance
2312. Immaculate - Spotless; Flawless; 2343. Impersonal - Not Being A Person; Not
Absolutely Clean Showing Personal Feelings
2313. Imminent - Impending; Near At Hand 2344. Impertinent - Insolent; Rude; Not Pertinent
2314. Immobility - State Of Being Immovable 2345. Imperturbable - Unshakably Calm; Placid
2315. Immolate - Offer Or Kill As A Sacrifice (By 2346. Impervious - Impenetrable; Incapable Of
Fire) Being Damaged Or Distressed
2316. Immune - Resistant To; Free Or Exempt 2347. Impetus - Moving Force; Momentum; Force
From Of A Moving Body; Stimulus
2317. Immure - Imprison; Shut Up In Confinement 2348. Impiety - Irreverence; Lack Of Respect For
2318. Immutable - Unchangeable God
2319. Impair - Injure; Hurt; Damage 2349. Impinge - Infringe; Encroach; Influence;
2320. Impale - Pierce (With A Sharp Point) Touch
2321. Impalpable - Imperceptible(Not Easily 2350. Impious - Irreverent
Understood); Intangible 2351. Implacable - Incapable Of Being Pacified;
2322. Impart - Grant A Share Of; Make Known Impossible To Appease

96
2352. Implausible - Unlikely (To Be True); 2380. Impute - Attribute; Ascribe; Charge
Unbelievable 2381. Inadvertently - Unintentionally; By
2353. Implement - Put Into Effect; Enforce Oversight; Carelessly
2354. Implicate - Incriminate; Involve 2382. Inalienable - Not To Be Taken Away;
Incriminatingly; Show To Be Involved (In A Nontransferable
Crime) 2383. Inamorata - Woman Whom A Man Loves
2355. Implication - Something Hinted At Or 2384. Inane - Silly; Senseless
Suggested 2385. Inanimate - Lifeless; Not Animate
2356. Implicit - Understood But Not Stated; 2386. Inapt - (Of Statements Or Ideas)
Implied Inappropriate
2357. Implode - Burst Inward 2387. Inarticulate - Speechless; Producing
2358. Implore - Ask Or Beg Earnestly; Beseech Indistinct Speech
2359. Imply - Suggest A Meaning Not Expressed; 2388. Inaugurate - Begin Formally; Install In
Signify Office; Induct Into Office By A Formal
2360. Impolitic - Not Wise; Not Expedient; Not Ceremony
Politic 2389. Incandescent - Strikingly Bright; Shining
2361. Imponderable - Weightless; That Cannot With Intense Heat
Undergo Precise Evaluation 2390. Incantation - Singing Or Chanting Of Magic
2362. Import - Significance; Importance; Meaning Spells; Magical Formula
2363. Importunate - Urging; Always Demanding; 2391. Incapacitate - Disable
Troublesomely Urgent 2392. Incapacity - Lack Of Capacity
2364. Importune - Beg Persistently 2393. Incarcerate - Imprison
2365. Imposture - Assuming A False Identity; 2394. Incarnate - Endowed With Flesh; Invested
Masquerade With Bodily Form
2366. Impotent - Weak; Ineffective; Lacking In 2395. Incarnation - Act Of Assuming A Human
Physical Strength Or Power Body And Human Nature; Personification
2367. Impoverish - Make Poor; Deprive Of Natural 2396. Incendiary - Arsonist
Strength 2397. Incense - Enrage; Infuriate(Make Furious);
2368. Imprecation - Curse; Swearword Make Extremely Angry
2369. Impregnable - Invulnerable; Impossible To 2398. Incentive - Spur; Motive; Something Which
Capture Or Enter By Force Encourages One To Greater Activity
2370. Impregnate - Make Pregnant; Fill 2399. Inception - Start; Beginning
Thoroughly; Saturate 2400. Incessant - Uninterrupted; Unceasing
2371. Impromptu - Without Previous Preparation; 2401. Inchoate - (Of Desire, Wish, Plan) Recently
Off The Cuff Begun; Not Explicit; At The Beginning Of
2372. Impropriety - Improperness; Unsuitableness Development
2373. Improvident - Thriftless; Not Providing For 2402. Incidence - Rate Of Occurrence; Particular
The Future Occurrence
2374. Improvise - Compose On The Spur Of The 2403. Incident - Event; Event That Causes A Crisis
Moment 2404. Incidental - Not Essential; Minor
2375. Imprudent - Lacking Caution; Not Prudent; 2405. Incinerate - Burn To Ashes
Injudicious 2406. Incipient - Beginning; In An Early Stage
2376. Impudence - Impertinence; Insolence 2407. Incise - Make A Cut Into
2377. Impugn - Dispute Or Contradict (Often In An 2408. Incisive - (Appreciatively) Cutting; Sharp
Insulting Way); Attack As False Or 2409. Incite - Arouse To Action; Goad; Motivate;
Questionable Induce To Exist
2378. Impuissance - Powerlessness; Feebleness 2410. Inclement - Stormy; Unkind; Unmerciful
2379. Impunity - Freedom From Punishment Or 2411. Incline - Slant; Dispose; Be Disposed; Tend
Harm 2412. Incline - Slope; Slant

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
97
2413. Inclined - Tending Or Leaning Toward; Bent 2442. Indecisive - Marked By Indecision;
2414. Inclusive - Tending To Include All; All- Inconclusive
Inclusive 2443. Indefatigable - Tireless; Untiring; Showing
2415. Incognito - With Identity Concealed; Using No Sign Of Getting Tired
An Assumed Name 2444. Indelible - Not Able To Be Erased
2416. Incoherent - Unintelligible; Muddled; Unable 2445. Indemnify - Make Secure Against Damage
To Express One’S Thoughts In An Orderly Or Loss
Manner 2446. Indentation - Notch; Deep Recess
2417. Incommodious - Not Spacious; Inconvenient 2447. Indenture - Bind As Servant Or Apprentice
2418. Incompatible - Inharmonious To Master; Bind By Indenture
2419. Incongruity - Lack Of Harmony; Absurdity 2448. Indeterminate - Uncertain; Not Clearly Fixed;
2420. Incongruous - Lacking In Harmony; Indefinite
Inappropriate 2449. Index - Something That Reveals Or Indicates
2421. Inconsequential - Insignificant; Unimportant 2450. Indicative - Suggestive; Implying; Serving
2422. Inconsistency - State Of Being Self- To Indicate
Contradictory; Lack Of Uniformity Or 2451. Indices - Signs; Indications
Steadiness 2452. Indict - Charge
2423. Inconsistent - Displaying A Lack Of 2453. Indifferent - Unmoved Or Unconcerned By;
Consistency; Erratic Having No Interest In
2424. Incontinent - Lacking Self-Restraint; Not 2454. Indigence - Poverty
Continent; Licentious 2455. Indigenous - Native
2425. Incontrovertible - Indisputable; Impossible 2456. Indigent - Poor; Destitute
To Dispute; Not Open To Question 2457. Indignation - Anger At An Injustice
2426. Incorporate - Introduce Something Into A 2458. Indignity - Treatment Or Situation That
Larger Whole; Include Causes Shame Or Loss Of Dignity
2427. Incorporeal - Without A Material Body; 2459. Indiscriminate - Choosing At Random;
Insubstantial Confused; Not Based On Careful Distinctions
2428. Incorrigible - Uncorrectable 2460. Indisputable - Too Certain To Be Disputed;
2429. Incredulity - Tendency To Disbelief Beyond Doubt
2430. Incredulous - Withholding Belief; Skeptical; 2461. Indissoluble - Permanent; Impossible To
Showing Disbelief Dissolve Or Disintegrate
2431. Increment - Increase 2462. Indite - Write; Compose
2432. Incriminate - Accuse Of Or Implicate In A 2463. Indoctrinate - Cause To Accept A Doctrine
Crime; Serve As Evidence Against Without Questioning It
2433. Incrust - Encrust; Cover With A Crust 2464. Indolent - Lazy
2434. Incrustation - Hard Coating Or Crust 2465. Indomitable - Unconquerable; Unyielding
2435. Incubate - Hatch; Warm (Eggs) With The 2466. Indubitable - Unable To Be Doubted; Which
Body To Promote Hatching Cannot Be Doubted
2436. Incubus - Burden; Very Worrying Problem; 2467. Induce - Persuade; Lead To Do Something
Mental Care; Nightmare 2468. Induct - Place Formally In Office; Install
2437. Inculcate - Teach (Ideas Or Principles); 2469. Inductive - Pertaining To Induction Or
Instill Proceeding From The Specific To The
2438. Incumbent - Obligatory; Imposed As An General
Obligation; Currently Holding An Office 2470. Indulge - Yield To; Gratify; Allow Oneself A
2439. Incur - Bring Upon Oneself Special Pleasure
2440. Incursion - Temporary Invasion 2471. Indulgent - Humoring; Yielding; Lenient;
2441. Indecision - Irresolution; Inability To Make Showing Indulgence
Up One’S Mind 2472. Industrious - Diligent; Hard-Working
2473. Inebriate - Make Drunk; Intoxicate

98
2474. Inebriated - Habitually Intoxicated 2505. Ingenuous - Naive And Trusting; Young;
2475. Ineffable - Unutterable; Not To Be Uttered; Unsophisticated; Candid
Taboo 2506. Ingrained - Deeply Established; Firmly
2476. Ineffectual - Not Effective; Not Having A Rooted
Desired Effect; Weak 2507. Ingrate - Ungrateful Person (Not Expressing
2477. Ineluctable - Irresistible; Not To Be Escaped; Thanks)
Unavoidable 2508. Ingratiate - Become Popular With; Bring
2478. Inept - Unsuited; Inappropriate; Lacking (Oneself) In Favor Of Another
Skill; Incompetent 2509. Inherent - Firmly Established By Nature Or
2479. Inequity - Unfairness Habit; Intrinsic
2480. Inerrancy - Infallibility 2510. Inhibit - Restrain; Prohibit; Retard Or
2481. Inert - Inactive; Lacking Power To Move; Prevent
Unable To Move Or Act 2511. Inhibited - (Of A Person) Unable To Express
2482. Inertia - State Of Being Inert; Force Which What One Really Feels
Keeps A Thing In The Position Or State 2512. Inimical - (Of Someone) Unfriendly; Hostile;
2483. Inestimable - Impossible To Estimate (Of Something) Harmful; Detrimental
2484. Inevitable - Unavoidable 2513. Inimitable - Matchless; Not Able To Be
2485. Inexorable - Relentless; Unyielding; Imitated
Implacable 2514. Iniquitous - Wicked; Immoral; Unrighteous
2486. Inextricable - From Which It Is Impossible 2515. Initiate - Begin; Originate; Receive Into A
To Get Free Group; Introduce To A New Field Or Activity
2487. Infallible - Unerring; Never Making Mistakes 2516. Injurious - Harmful; Causing Injury
2488. Infamous - Notoriously Bad; Notorious; 2517. Inkling - Hint; Slight Indication
Well Known For Being Bad 2518. Innate - Inborn
2489. Infamy - Infamous Act; Evil Fame Or 2519. Innocuous - Harmless
Reputation 2520. Innovate - Begin Or Introduce (Something
2490. Infantile - Childish; Infant Like New)
2491. Infer - Deduce; Conclude 2521. Innovation - Change; Something Newly
2492. Infernal - Pertaining To Hell; Devilish Introduced; Introduction Of Something New
2493. Inferno - Place Of Fiery Heat Or Destruction 2522. Innuendo - Indirect Or Subtle (Derogatory)
2494. Infest - Inhabit In Numbers Large Enough Hint; Insinuation
To Be Harmful 2523. Inopportune - Untimely; Inappropriate Or Ill-
2495. Infidel - Unbeliever (With Respect To A Timed; Poorly Chosen
Particular Religion) 2524. Inordinate - Beyond Reasonable Limits;
2496. Infiltrate - Pass Into Or Through; Penetrate Unrestrained; Excessive
Or Enter (An Organization) Sneakily 2525. Inquisitive - Eager For Knowledge; Unduly
2497. Infinitesimal - Very Small Curious
2498. Infirmity - Weakness 2526. Inquisitor - Questioner (Especially Harsh);
2499. Inflated - Exaggerated; Pompous; Enlarged Investigator; Person Making An Inquisition
(With Air Or Gas) 2527. Inroad - Hostile Invasion; Advance That
2500. Influx - Flowing Into Lessens The Quantity
2501. Infraction - Violation (Of A Rule Or 2528. Insalubrious - Unwholesome; Not Healthful
Regulation); Breach 2529. Insatiable - Not Easily Satisfied;
2502. Infringe - Violate (A Law); Encroach (The Unquenchable
Right Of Another Person) 2530. Inscrutable - Difficult To Understand;
2503. Ingenious - Marked By Inventive Skill; Impenetrable; Not Readily Understood;
Clever; Resourceful Mysterious
2504. Ingénue - Young Innocent Girl 2531. Insensate - Without Feeling; Lacking Sense;
Foolish

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
99
2532. Insensible - Unconscious; Unresponsive; 2559. Inter - Bury

Insensitive 2560. Interdict - Prohibit; Forbid
2533. Insidious - Treacherous; Stealthy; Sly; 2561. Interim - Meantime
Working Or Spreading Harmfully In A 2562. Interjection - Exclamation
Stealthy Manner 2563. Interloper - Intruder; One Who Interferes
2534. Insightful - Discerning; Perceptive 2564. Intermediary - Intermediate; Acting As A
2535. Insinuate - Hint; Imply; Suggest Indirectly; Mediator
Creep In; Introduce 2565. Interminable - Endless
2536. Insipid - Lacking In Flavor; Lacking Interest; 2566. Intermittent - Periodic; On And Off;
Dull Stopping And Starting At Intervals
2537. Insolence - Impudent Disrespect; 2567. Internecine - Mutually Destructive
Haughtiness 2568. Interpolate - Insert Between
2538. Insolvent - Bankrupt; Lacking Money To 2569. Interregnum - Period Between Two
Pay Successive Reigns Or Governments
2539. Insomnia - Wakefulness; Inability To Sleep 2570. Interrogate - Question Closely; Cross-
2540. Insouciant - Without Concern Or Care; Examine; Cross-Question
Unconcerned; Indifferent 2571. Interstice - Narrow Space Between Things
2541. Instigate - Start; Urge; Provoke; Incite 2572. Intervene - Come Between; Interfere
2542. Institute - Organization For A Special 2573. Intimate - Hint; Suggest; Imply
Purpose 2574. Intimidate - Frighten
2543. Institution - Instituting; (Building For The) 2575. Intolerant - Not Willing To Accept Ways Of
Organization; Established Custom Thinking Different From One’S Own
2544. Institutionalize - Make Into An Institution; 2576. Intoxicate - Make Drunk; Stimulate Or Excite
Put Or Confine In An Institution 2577. Intractable - Unruly; Difficult To Manage
2545. Insubordination - Disobedience; 2578. Intransigence - Refusal Of Any Compromise;
Rebelliousness Stubbornness
2546. Insubstantial - Lacking Substance; 2579. Intransigent - Uncompromising
Insignificant 2580. Intrepid - Fearless
2547. Insular - Of An Island; Isolated; Narrow- 2581. Intrigue - Make Secret Plans; Plot; Arouse
Minded The Curiosity Of
2548. Insularity - Narrow-Mindedness; Isolation 2582. Intrinsic - Essential; Inherent; Built-In
2549. Insuperable - Insurmountable; Unbeatable 2583. Introspection - Self-Examination
2550. Insurgent - Rebellious 2584. Introspective - Looking Within Oneself
2551. Insurmountable - Overwhelming; 2585. Introvert - One Who Is Introspective Or
Unbeatable; Insuperable Inclined To Think More About Oneself
2552. Insurrection - Rebellion; Uprising 2586. Intrude - Put Or Force In Without Being
2553. Intangible - Not Able To Be Perceived By Asked; Trespass
Touch; Vague 2587. Intuit - Know By Intuition
2554. Integral - Complete; Necessary For 2588. Intuition - Immediate Insight; Power Of
Completeness Knowing Without Reasoning
2555. Integrate - Make Whole; Combine; Make 2589. Inundate - Flood; Overflow; Submerge;
Into One Unit Cover Completely
2556. Integrity - Honesty; Uprightness; 2590. Inure - Make Used To Something
Wholeness; State Of Being Whole And Undesirable
Undivided 2591. Inured - Accustomed; Hardened
2557. Intellect - Higher Mental Powers; Person Of 2592. Invalid - One Incapacitated(Disabled) By A
Great Intellectual Ability Chronic Illness
2558. Intelligentsia - Intellectuals; Members Of 2593. Invalidate - Weaken; Destroy; Make Invalid;
The Educated Elite Nullify

100
2594. Invaluable - Of Immeasurable Worth 2625. Irreverence - Lack Of Proper Respect Or

2595. Invective - Abuse Reverence
2596. Inveigh - Denounce; Utter Censure Or 2626. Irrevocable - Unalterable; Irreversible;
Invective Impossible To Revoke
2597. Inveigle - Deceive; Lead Astray By 2627. Isotope - Varying From Of An Element
Deception; Wheedle(Cajole) 2628. Isthmus - Narrow Neck Of Land Connecting
2598. Inverse - Opposite Two Larger Bodies Of Land
2599. Invert - Turn Upside Down Or Inside Out; 2629. Itinerant - Wandering; Traveling From Place
Reverse The Position Or Condition Of To Place (To Perform Work)
2600. Inveterate - Deep-Rooted; Habitual 2630. Itinerary - Plan Of A Trip
2601. Invidious - Designed To Create Ill Will Or
Envy
2602. Invincible - Unconquerable
2603. Inviolable - Secure From Corruption, Attack,
J
Or Violation(Or Profanation) 2631. Jab - Poke Abruptly With Something Sharp;
2604. Invocation - Prayer For Help (Used In Punch With Short Blows
Invoking); Calling Upon As A Reference Or 2632. Jabber - Chatter Rapidly Or Unintelligibly
Support 2633. Jaded - Tired Or Uninterested By Surfeit;
2605. Invoke - Call And Bring Into Use (A Right Or Fatigued; Surfeited; Worn Out; Wearied
Law); Call On/Upon (A Higher Power Or God) 2634. Jargon - Language Used By Special Group;
For Help Technical Terminology; Gibberish;
2606. Invulnerable - Incapable Of Injury Nonsensical Or Incoherent Talk
2607. Iota - Very Small Quantity 2635. Jaundice - Medical Condition In Which The
2608. Irascible - Irritable; Easily Angered Skin, The White Part Of The Eyes, Etc. Turn
2609. Irate - Angry Yellow
2610. Ire - Anger; Wrath 2636. Jaundiced - Yellowed; Prejudiced (Envious,
2611. Iridescent - Exhibiting Rainbow Like Colors Hostile, Or Resentful)
2612. Irk - Annoy 2637. Jaunt - Trip; Short Journey
2613. Irksome - Annoying; Tedious 2638. Jaunty - Cheerful And Pleased With Life;
2614. Ironic - Expressing Irony; Occurring In An Lighthearted; Animated; Easy And Carefree;
Unexpected And Contrary Manner Dapper In Appearance
2615. Irony - Hidden Sarcasm Or Satire; Use Of 2639. Jeopardize - Endanger; Imperil; Put At Risk
Words That Seem To Mean The Opposite Of 2640. Jest - Playful Remark Or Act
What They Actually Mean 2641. Jetsam - Things Thrown From A Ship (To
2616. Irreconcilable - Impossible To Reconcile; Lighten The Ship)
Incompatible 2642. Jettison - Throw Overboard (From A Ship Or
2617. Irrefutable - Indisputable; Incontrovertible Plane)
2618. Irrelevant - Not Applicable; Unrelated 2643. Jibe - Agree; Be In Harmony With; Gibe
2619. Irremediable - Incurable 2644. Jingoist - Extremely Aggressive And
2620. Irreparable - Not Able To Be Corrected Or Militant Patriot; Warlike Chauvinist
Repaired 2645. Jocose - Given To(Having A Tendency Of)
2621. Irrepressible - Unable To Be Restrained Or Joking
Held Back 2646. Jocular - Said Or Done In Jest Or Playfully;
2622. Irreproachable - Beyond Reproach; Marked By Joking
Blameless; Impeccable 2647. Jocund - Merry
2623. Irresolute - Uncertain How To Act; Weak; 2648. Jollity - Gaiety; Cheerfulness
Lacking In Resolution; Indecisive 2649. Jostle - Shove; Bump; Push Against
2624. Irretrievable - Impossible To Recover Or (Someone) Rather Roughly
Regain 2650. Jovial - Good-Natured; Merry; Cheerful

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
101
2651. Jubilation - Rejoicing; Great Joy 2679. Knoll - Little Round Hill; Hillock
2652. Judiciary - Judicial Branch Of Government 2680. Knotty - Intricate; Difficult; Tangled
2653. Judicious - Sound On Judgment; Wise 2681. Kudos - Honor; Glory; Acclaim Or Praise For
2654. Jug - Pitcher Container For Holding Liquids Exceptional Achievement
2655. Juggernaut - Irresistible Crushing Force;
Overwhelming Advancing Force That
L
Crushes Everything In Its Path 2682. Labile - Likely To Change; Unstable
2656. Jumble - Mix In A Confused Way 2683. Laborious - Demanding Much Work Or Care;
2657. Juncture - Crisis; Point In Time; Joining Tedious
Point; Joint; Act Of Joining 2684. Labyrinth - Maze
2658. Junket - Trip Especially One Taken For 2685. Lace - Cord Used To Draw And Tie Together
Pleasure By An Official At Public Expense Two Opposite Edges (As Of A Shoe)
2659. Junta - Group Of Persons Joined In Political 2686. Laceration - Torn Ragged Wound
Intrigue; Cabal; Group Of Military Officers 2687. Lachrymose - Producing Tears; Tearful
Ruling A Country After Seizing Power 2688. Lackadaisical - Lacking Interest Or Effort;
2660. Juridical - Of The Law And Its Lacking Purpose Or Zest; Lazy; Halfhearted;
Administration Languid
2661. Jurisdiction - Right And Power To Apply The 2689. Lackluster - Lacking Luster(Shine; Gloss);
Law; Authority Dull
2662. Jurisprudence - Science Of Law 2690. Laconic - Brief And To The Point; Using Few
2663. Juxtapose - Place Side By Side Words; Terse
2691. Lag - Move Or Develop More Slowly;
K Straggle
2664. Kaleidoscope - Tube In Which Patterns 2692. Laggard - Slow; Sluggish
Made By The Reflection In Mirrors Of 2693. Lagoon - Shallow Body Of Water Or Lake
Colored Pieces Of Glass Near A Sea
2665. Ken - Range Of Knowledge 2694. Laity - Laypersons; Laymen; Persons Not
2666. Kernel - Central Or Vital Part; Core; Whole Connected With The Clergy
Seed (As Of Corn) 2695. Lament - Grieve; Express Sorrow
2667. Killjoy - Grouch; Spoilsport; One Who 2696. Lampoon - Ridicule
Intentionally Spoils The Pleasure Of Others 2697. Lance - Pierce With A Lance; Cut Into
2668. Kindle - Start A Fire; Ignite; Inspire; Arouse 2698. Lancet - Small Surgical Tool For Making
2669. Kindred - Related; Belonging To The Same Incisions
Group; Similar In Nature Or Character 2699. Languid - Lacking Energy Or Vitality; Weary;
2670. Kinetic - Producing Motion; Of Motion Sluggish; Listless
2671. Kismet - Fate; Destiny 2700. Languish - Lose Animation Or Strength
2672. Kleptomaniac - Person Who Has A 2701. Languor - Lack Of Physical Or Mental
Compulsive Desire To Steal Energy; Lassitude; Depression
2673. Knack - Special Talent; Art 2702. Lank - Long And Thin
2674. Knave - Untrustworthy Person; Rogue; 2703. Lap - Take In Food Or Drink With One’S
Scoundrel; Jack Tongue; Splash Gently
2675. Knead - Mix; Work Dough; Mix And Work 2704. Larceny - Theft
Into A Uniform Mass (With The Hands) 2705. Larder - Pantry; Place Where Food Is Kept
2676. Kneel - Go Down On One’S Knee(S) 2706. Largess - Generous Gift (Given To People
2677. Knell - Tolling Of A Bell Especially To Who Do Not Have Enough)
Indicate A Funeral, Disaster, Etc.; Sound Of 2707. Lascivious - Lustful
The Funeral Bell 2708. Lassitude - Languor; Weariness;
2678. Knit - Contract Into Wrinkles; Grow Listlessness
Together; Join Together Closely

102
2709. Latch - Fastening Or Lock Consisting Of A 2740. Liability - Drawback; Handicap; Debts;
Movable Bar That Fits Into A Notch Obligation; Responsibility; Condition Of
2710. Latent - Present But Not Yet Noticeable Or Being Liable
Active; Dormant; Hidden 2741. Liaison - Contact That Keeps Parties In
2711. Lateral - Of Or Coming From The Side Communication; Communication Between
2712. Latitude - Freedom From Narrow Groups
Limitations 2742. Libel - Defamatory Written Statement; Act
2713. Laud - Praise Of Writing Something That Smears A
2714. Lavish - Liberal; Wasteful; Generous Or Person’S Character
Wasteful In Giving Or Using; Abundant; 2743. Libertine - Debauched Person; Dissolute Or
Profuse; Great Licentious Person
2715. Lax - Careless; Negligent; Not Paying 2744. Libidinous - Lustful
Enough Attention 2745. Libido - Psychic And Emotional Energy Or
2716. Layman - Man Who Is Not A Cleric; Man Urges Behind Human Activity; Sexual Desire
Who Is Nonprofessional 2746. Libretto - Text Of An Opera Or Oratorio
2717. Leash - Restraining Rope Fastened To The 2747. License - Official Or Legal Permission;
Collar Of An Animal (To Control It) Latitude Of Action Or Speech; Excessive
2718. Leaven - Add Leaven To; Cause To Rise Or Freedom That Causes Harm Or Damage
Grow Lighter; Enliven 2748. Licentious - Amoral; Lewd And Lascivious;
2719. Leave-Taking - Farewell Or Departure Unrestrained
2720. Lechery - Gross Lewdness; Lustfulness 2749. Lien - Legal Claim Or Right On A Property
2721. Lectern - Reading Desk Or Stand For A 2750. Ligneous - Like Wood
Public Speaker 2751. Lilliputian - Extremely Small
2722. Leery - (Of Someone) Suspicious; Wary; 2752. Limber - Flexible; Supple; Pliable
Cautious 2753. Limbo - Region Near Heaven Or Hell Where
2723. Leeway - Room To Move; Margin; Latitude Certain Souls Are Kept; Prison (Slang)
2724. Legacy - Gift Made By A Will; Something 2754. Limn - Draw; Outline; Describe
Handed Down From An Ancestor 2755. Limp - Walk Lamely
2725. Legato - (Of Music) Played Smoothly 2756. Limpid - Crystal Clear
2726. Legend - Explanatory List Of Symbols On A 2757. Lineage - Descent; Ancestry
Map 2758. Lineaments - Features Especially Of The
2727. Legerdemain - Sleight(Dexterity) Of Hand Face; Distinctive Shape Or Contour Of The
2728. Legislature - Legislating Branch Of Face
Government 2759. Linger - Loiter Or Dawdle; Be Slow In
2729. Leniency - Mildness; Permissiveness Leaving; Delay Going; Continue Or Persist;
2730. Leonine - Like A Lion Be Slow To Disappear
2731. Lethal - Deadly 2760. Linguistic - Pertaining To Language
2732. Lethargic - Drowsy; Dull 2761. Lionize - Treat (A Person) As A Celebrity
2733. Levee - Earthen Or Stone Embankment To 2762. Liquidate - Settle Accounts; Pay Off (A
Prevent Flooding Debt); Clear Up; Eliminate
2734. Levitate - Rise And Float In The Air 2763. List - Tilt (As Of A Ship); Lean Over (To One
(Especially By Magical Means) Side)
2735. Levity - Lack Of Seriousness Or Steadiness; 2764. Listless - Lacking In Spirit Or Energy;
Frivolity; Lightness Of Manner Languid
2736. Levy - Impose (A Fine); Collect (A 2765. Litany - Supplicating Prayer; Prayer In
Payment); Impose Or Collect (A Tax) Which The Priest Calls Out And The People
2737. Lewd - Lustful Replies In The Same Words
2738. Lexicographer - Compiler Of A Dictionary 2766. Lithe - Flexible; Supple
2739. Lexicon - Dictionary 2767. Litigation - Lawsuit

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
103
2768. Litotes - Understatement For Emphasis 2799. Luminary - Celebrity (In A Specific Field);
2769. Litter - Waste Material Thrown Away (As Dignitary; Object That Gives Light (As A
Bits Of Paper Scattered Untidily) Celestial Body)
2770. Livid - Lead-Colored; Black And Blue (As 2800. Luminous - Shining (Esp. In The Dark);
From A Bruise); Ashen; Enraged; Extremely Issuing Light
Angry 2801. Lunar - Pertaining To The Moon
2771. Loath - Reluctant; Unwilling; Disinclined 2802. Lunatic - Insane
2772. Loathe - Detest 2803. Lurid - Wild; Sensational; Graphic;
2773. Lode - Metal-Bearing Vein(Long Deposit Of Gruesome; Horrible
An Ore) 2804. Lurk - Stealthily Lie In Waiting; Slink; Exist
2774. Loft - Room Or Space Under The Roof; Attic Unperceived
2775. Lofty - Very High 2805. Luscious - Pleasing To Taste Or Smell;
2776. Log - Record Of A Voyage Or Flight; Record Delicious
Of Day-To-Day Activities; Section Of A 2806. Lush - (Of A Plant Or Grass) Growing Very
Trunk Well
2777. Loiter - Hang About/Around; Stand Idly 2807. Lust - Intense Sexual Desire; Intense
About; Linger Eagerness
2778. Loll - Lounge About 2808. Luster - Shine; Gloss (Of A Polished
2779. Longevity - Long Life; Long Duration Surface)
2780. Lookout - Act Of Keeping Watch; High Place 2809. Lustrous - Shining; Brilliant
Commanding A Wide View; Person Who 2810. Luxuriant - Abundant; Growing Healthily
Keeps Watch And In Large Amounts; Excessively Ornate
2781. Loom - Appear Or Take Shape (Usually In 2811. Luxuriate - Take Pleasure In Great Comfort
An Enlarged, Indistinct, Or Distorted Form)
2782. Lope - Gallop Slowly
M
2783. Lopsided - Heavier Or Larger On One Side 2812. Macabre - Gruesome; Grisly; Ghastly
Than The Other 2813. Mace - Ceremonial Staff Used As A Symbol
2784. Loquacious - Talkative Of Authority
2785. Lot - Object Used In Making A 2814. Macerate - Soften By Soaking In Liquid;
Determination At Random; Fate; Piece Of Waste Away
Land 2815. Machiavellian - Crafty; Double-Dealing; Of
2786. Lottery - Contest In Which Winners Are The Political Doctrine Of Machiavelli
Selected In A Drawing Of Lots 2816. Machinations - Evil Schemes Or Plots
2787. Lounge - Stand, Sit, Or Lie In A Lazy, 2817. Maculated - Spotted; Stained
Relaxed Way 2818. Madrigal - Pastoral Song; Song For Several
2788. Lout - Clumsy Person Singers Without Instruments
2789. Low - Moo Make The Sound Of A Cow 2819. Maelstrom - Violent Whirlpool
2790. Lubricate - Apply A Lubricant To 2820. Magisterial - Authoritative; Imperious;
2791. Lucid - Easily Understood; Clear; Intelligible Commanding; Of A Magistrate
2792. Lucrative - Profitable; Producing Wealth 2821. Magistrate - Official With Power To
2793. Lucre - Money; Profit Administer The Law
2794. Ludicrous - Laughable; Ridiculous; Trifling 2822. Magnanimity - Generosity
2795. Lugubrious - Mournful; Sorrowful 2823. Magnanimous - Generous
2796. Lull - Moment Of Calm; Period Of Reduced 2824. Magnate - Person Of Prominence Or
Activity Influence; Powerful Or Influential Person
2797. Lumber - Move Heavily Or Clumsily 2825. Magniloquent - Boastful; Pompous
2798. Lumen - Unit Of Light Energy (One Candle’S 2826. Magnitude - Greatness (In Size Or Extent);
Worth) Extent

104
2827. Maim - Mutilate; Injure Lastingly; Disable; 2858. Maniac - Insane Person
Cripple 2859. Maniacal - Raging Mad; Insane
2828. Makeshift - Temporary Expedient Or 2860. Manifest - Evident; Visible; Obvious
Substitute 2861. Manifestation - Outward Demonstration;
2829. Maladroit - Clumsy; Not Skillful; Awkward Manifesting
2830. Malady - Illness 2862. Manifesto - Public Declaration Of
2831. Malaise - Uneasiness; Vague Feeling Of Ill Principles; Statement Of Policy
Health 2863. Manifold - Many In Number Or Kind;
2832. Malapropism - Comic Misuse Of A Word Numerous
2833. Malapropos - Inappropriate 2864. Manipulate - Operate With One’S Hands;
2834. Malcontent - Person Dissatisfied With Maneuver
Existing State Of Affairs 2865. Mannered - Affected; Not Natural
2835. Malediction - Curse 2866. Mannerism - Distinctive Behavioral Trait
2836. Malefactor - Evildoer; Criminal 2867. Mantle - Loose Sleeveless Outer Garment;
2837. Maleficent - Doing Evil Cloak; Something That Covers
2838. Malevolent - Wishing Evil; Exhibiting Ill Will 2868. Manumit - Emancipate; Free From Slavery
2839. Malfeasance - Wrongdoing; Misconduct (By Or Bondage
A Public Official) 2869. Mar - Spoil The Appearance Of
2840. Malice - Desire To Harm Others; Spite 2870. Maraud - Move In Search Of Plunder
2841. Malicious - Hateful; Spiteful; Expressing 2871. Margin - Border; Room; Allowance Beyond
Malice What Is Needed
2842. Malign - Speak Evil Of; Bad-Mouth (Criticize 2872. Marginal - Of A Margin; Barely Within A
Spitefully) Limit
2843. Malignant - Tending To Cause Death; 2873. Marital - Pertaining To Marriage
Highly Injurious 2874. Maritime - Bordering On(Adjacent To) The
2844. Malinger - Feign Illness To Avoid Work Sea; Nautical
2845. Malingerer - One Who Feigns Illness To 2875. Marked - Noticeable; Targeted For
Escape Duty Vengeance Or Attack
2846. Malleable - (Of A Metal) Capable Of Being 2876. Maroon - Leave Helpless On A Deserted
Shaped By Pounding(Beating); Pliable Island Or Coast
2847. Malodorous - Foul-Smelling 2877. Marred - Damaged; Disfigured
2848. Mammal - Vertebrate Animal Whose Female 2878. Marrow - Soft Fatty Tissue That Fills Most
Suckles Its Young Bone Cavities And Is The Source Of Blood
2849. Mammoth - Gigantic; Enormous Cells
2850. Manacle - Restrain; Handcuff 2879. Marshal - Put In Order; Guide
2851. Mandate - Order; Charge; Authoritative Ceremoniously To The Correct Place
Command 2880. Marsupial - One Of A Family Of Mammals
2852. Mandatory - Obligatory; Compulsory; Of A That Nurse Their Offspring In A
Mandate Pouch(Pocket Of Skin Or Leather)
2853. Maneuver - Strategic Military Or Naval 2881. Martial - Warlike; Of War
Movement (Done For Training Purposes) 2882. Martinet - Strict Disciplinarian; Person Who
2854. Mange - Skin Disease (Esp. Of Domestic Demands Total Obedience To Rules And
Animals) Marked By Loss Of Hair Orders
2855. Mangle - Tear Or Cut To Pieces; Mutilate Or 2883. Martyr - One Who Voluntarily Suffers Death
Disfigure For His Or Her Religion Or Cause
2856. Mangy - Shabby; Wretched; Of Bad 2884. Mash - Crush Into Mash; Convert Into Mash
Appearance 2885. Masochist - Person Who Enjoys His Own
2857. Mania - Disorder Of The Mind; Intense Pain
Enthusiasm

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
105
2886. Mason - One Who Builds Or Works With 2917. Medium - Channel Of Communication,
Stone Or Brick Middle Position Between Extremes
2887. Masonry - Work Of A Mason; Stonework Or 2918. Medley - Mixture
Brickwork 2919. Meek - Submissive; Patient And Long-
2888. Masquerade - Wear A Mask Or Disguise; Suffering
Pretend 2920. Megalomania - Mania For Doing Grandiose
2889. Mass - Ceremony Of The Eucharist Things; Mental Disorder Characterized By
2890. Mass - Christian Religious Ceremony Delusions Of Wealth
2891. Masticate - Chew 2921. Melancholy - Gloomy; Morose; Blue
2892. Mat - Not Shiny; Matte; Having A Dull Finish 2922. Melee - Fight
2893. Materialism - Preoccupation With Physical 2923. Mellifluous - (Of Words Or A Voice) Sweetly
Comforts And Things Or Smoothly Flowing
2894. Maternal - Motherly 2924. Memento - Token; Reminder Of The Past;
2895. Maternity - Motherhood Keepsake
2896. Matinee - Dramatic Or Musical Performance 2925. Memoir - Memoirs; Autobiography;
Given In The Afternoon Biography
2897. Matriarch - Woman Who Rules A Family Or 2926. Memorial - Something, Such As A
Larger Social Group Monument Or Holiday, Intended To Honor
2898. Matriculate - Enroll (In College Or Graduate The Memory Of A Person Or Event
School) 2927. Memorialize - Commemorate
2899. Matrimony - State Of Being Married 2928. Menace - Threat
2900. Matrix - Point Of Origin; Array Of Numbers 2929. Menagerie - Collection Of Wild Animals On
Or Algebraic Symbols Exhibition; Zoo
2901. Maudlin - Effusively Sentimental 2930. Mendacious - Lying; Habitually Dishonest
2902. Maul - Handle Roughly; Batter; Injure By 2931. Mendicant - Beggar
Beating 2932. Menial - Suitable For Servants; Lowly; Mean
2903. Mausoleum - Monumental Tomb; Large 2933. Mentor - Counselor; Teacher
Stately Tomb 2934. Mercantile - Concerning Trade Or
2904. Mauve - Pale Purple Merchants
2905. Maverick - Rebel; Nonconformist (In A 2935. Mercenary - Motivated Solely By Money Or
Group) Gain
2906. Mawkish - Mushy(Sentimental) And Gushy; 2936. Mercurial - Capricious; Quick And
Excessively And Objectionably Sentimental Changing; Fickle; Containing The Element
2907. Maxim - Proverb; Truth Pithily Stated Mercury
2908. Mayhem - Injury To Body; Crime Of Willfully 2937. Meretricious - Flashy; Tawdry; Attractive On
Maiming Or Crippling A Person The Surface But Of No Real Value
2909. Meager - Scanty; Inadequate 2938. Merger - Combination (Of Two Business
2910. Mealy-Mouthed - Indirect In Speech (When Corporations); Act Of Merging
Something Unpleasant Must Be Said); 2939. Merit - Deserve
Hypocritical; Evasive 2940. Meritorious - Deserving Reward Or Praise
2911. Meander - Wind Or Turn In Its Course 2941. Mesmerize - Hypnotize
2912. Meddle - Interfere 2942. Metallurgical - Pertaining To The Art Of
2913. Meddlesome - Interfering Removing Metals From Ores
2914. Mediate - Settle A Dispute Through The 2943. Metallurgy - Science That Deals With
Services Of An Outsider Extracting Metals From Ores
2915. Mediocre - Ordinary; Commonplace; Neither 2944. Metamorphose - Change By Metamorphosis
Good Nor Bad 2945. Metamorphosis - Change Of Form
2916. Meditation - Reflection; Thought 2946. Metaphor - Implied Comparison

106
2947. Metaphysical - Pertaining To Speculative 2979. Minutes - Official Record Of The

Philosophy; Of Metaphysics Proceedings At A Meeting
2948. Metaphysics - Branch Of Philosophy That 2980. Minutiae - Petty Or Trivial Details
Examines The Nature Of Reality 2981. Mirage - Unreal Reflection; Optical Illusion
2949. Mete - Measure; Distribute; Administer 2982. Mire - Entangle; Stick In Swampy Ground
2950. Meteoric - Like A Meteor; Swift; Momentarily 2983. Mirth - Merriment; Laughter
Brilliant 2984. Misadventure - Mischance; Ill Luck
2951. Meter - Arrangement Of Words In The Form 2985. Misanthrope - One Who Hates Mankind
Of Poetry (By Accentual Rhythm) 2986. Misapprehension - Error; Misunderstanding
2952. Method - Systematic Method Of Procedure 2987. Miscellaneous - Made Up Of A Variety Of
2953. Methodical - Systematic Parts
2954. Meticulous - Excessively Careful (With Great 2988. Miscellany - Mixture Of Writings On Various
Attention To Detail); Painstaking; Subjects; Collection Of Various Items
Scrupulous 2989. Mischance - Ill Luck
2955. Metrical - Metric; Written In The Form Of 2990. Mischief - Behavior (Of Children) Causing
Poetry Trouble With No Serious Harm
2956. Metropolis - Large City 2991. Mischievous - Causing Mischief; Playfully
2957. Mettle - Courage (To Continue Bravely In Troublesome
Spite Of Difficulties) 2992. Misconduct - Immoral Behavior; Bad
2958. Miasma - Swamp Gas; Heavy Vaporous Management
Atmosphere Often Emanating From 2993. Misconstrue - Interpret Incorrectly;
Decaying Matter Misinterpret; Misjudge
2959. Microcosm - Small Representative World; 2994. Miscreant - Wretch; Wrongdoer; Villain
World In Miniature 2995. Misdemeanor - Minor Crime; Misdeed;
2960. Migrant - Changing Its Habitat; Wandering Wrongdoing
2961. Migrate - Move From One Region And Settle 2996. Miserly - Stingy; Mean
In Another 2997. Misgivings - Doubts
2962. Migratory - Wandering 2998. Mishap - Unfortunate Accident
2963. Milieu - Social Environment; Means Of 2999. Misnomer - Wrong Or Improper Name
Expression 3000. Misogamy - Hatred Of Marriage
2964. Militant - Combative; Bellicose 3001. Misogynist - Hater Of Woman
2965. Militate - Work Against 3002. Missile - Object To Be Thrown Or Projected
2966. Militia - Army Composed Of Ordinary 3003. Missive - Letter; Written Statement
Citizens Rather Than Professional Soldiers 3004. Mite - Very Small Object Or Insect-Like
2967. Millennium - Thousand-Year Period Creature; Small Coin
2968. Mime - Pantomime (Act Without Dialogue) 3005. Mitigate - Appease; Moderate; Make Or
2969. Mimic - Pantomime Become Less In Force Or Intensity
2970. Mimicry - Imitation 3006. Mnemonic - Pertaining To Memory;
2971. Minatory - Menacing; Threatening Assisting The Memory
2972. Mince - Cut (Esp. Meat) Into Very Small 3007. Mobile - Movable; Not Fixed
Pieces 3008. Mock - Ridicule; Deride; Imitate Often In
2973. Mincing - Affectedly Dainty (Delicate) Derision
2974. Mingle - Mix Together In Close Association 3009. Mode - Prevailing Style; Current Fashion;
2975. Miniature - Small Model; Small Painting Way Of Doing Something
2976. Minion - Servile Dependent; Obsequious 3010. Modicum - Limited Quantity; Small Amount
Follower 3011. Modish - Fashionable; Conforming To The
2977. Minuscule - (Miniscule) Extremely Small Current Fashion
2978. Minute - Extremely Small 3012. Modulate - Tone Down In Intensity; Change
The Intensity Or Tone Of; Regulate

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
107
3013. Mogul - Powerful Person 3042. Narrative - Related To Telling A Story

3014. Molecule - The Smallest Particle (One Or 3043. Nascent - Incipient; Coming Into Being Or
More Atoms) Of A Substance That Has All Existence; Ex. Nascent Ability In Music
The Properties Of That Substance 3044. Natal - Connected With Birth
3015. Mollify - Soothe An Angry Person 3045. Natation - Swimming
3016. Mollycoddle - Pamper; Coddle; Baby; 3046. Natty - Neatly Or Smartly Dressed; Dapper;
Indulge Excessively Smart; Ex. Natty Dresser
3017. Molt - Periodically Shed Or Cast Off Hairs 3047. Nausea - Feeling Of Sickness And Desire To
Or Feathers Vomit; Disgust
3018. Molten - Melted 3048. Nauseate - Cause To Become Sick; Fill With
3019. Momentous - Very Important Disgust; Fill Nausea
3020. Momentum - Quantity Of Motion Of A 3049. Nauseous - Causing Nausea; Feeling
Moving Body; Impetus; Moving Force Nausea
3021. Monarchy - Government Under A Single 3050. Nautical - Pertaining To Ships Or Navigation
Ruler 3051. Navigable - (Of A Body Of Water) Wide And
3022. Monastic - Related To Monks Or Deep Enough To Allow Ships To Pass
Monasteries; Removed From Worldly Through
Concerns 3052. Nebula - Diffuse Mass Of Interstellar Dust
3023. Monetary - Pertaining To Money Or Gas; Galaxy
3024. Mongrel - Plant Or Animal (Esp. A Dog) Of 3053. Nebulous - Vague; Hazy; Cloudy; Of A
Mixed Breed Nebula; Ex. Nebulous Proposal
3025. Monochromatic - Having Only One Color 3054. Necromancy - Black Magic; Sorcery;
3026. Monochrome - Painting In Only One Color Dealings With The Dead
3027. Monogram - Design Composed Of One Or 3055. Nectar - Drink Of The Gods; Sweet Liquid
More Initials Of A Name Collected By Bees
3028. Monograph - Scholarly Article 3056. Nefarious - Very Wicked
3029. Monolith - Large Block Of Stone 3057. Negate - Cancel Out; Nullify; Cause To Have
3030. Monolithic - Solidly Uniform; No Effect; Deny
Unchangeable; Unyielding 3058. Negligence - Neglect; Failure To Take
3031. Monotheism - Belief In One God Reasonable Care
3032. Monotony - Sameness Leading To Boredom 3059. Negligent - Neglectful; Lax; Not Taking
3033. Monumental - Massive; Impressively Large; Enough Care
Built As A Monument 3060. Negligible - So Small, Trifling, Or
3034. Mood - State Of Mind Or Emotion Unimportant As To Be Easily Disregarded
3035. Moodiness - Fits Of Depression Or Gloomy 3061. Nemesis - Someone Seeking Revenge;
3036. Moody - Given To Changeable Moods; Source Of Downfall Or Ruin
Subject To Periods Of Depression; Gloomy 3062. Neologism - New Or Newly Coined Word Or
3037. Moratorium - Legal Delay Of Payment Or Phrase
Action 3063. Neophyte - Recent Convert; New Member Of
3038. Morbid - Given To Unwholesome Or A Religious Group; Beginner
Unhealthy Thought; Moody 3064. Nepotism - Favoritism (To A Relative)
N 3065. Nether -
Garments/Regions
Lower; Ex. Nether
3039. Nadir - Lowest Point; Point On The Celestial 3066. Nettle - Irritate; Annoy; Vex; Adj.
Sphere Diametrically Opposite The Zenith Nettlesome
3040. Naiveté - (Naivety) Quality Of Being 3067. Nexus - Connection
Unsophisticated; Simplicity; Artlessness; 3068. Nib - Beak(Bill); Pen Point
Gullibility 3069. Nicety - Precision; Accuracy; Minute
3041. Narcissist - Conceited Person Distinction Or Difference

108
3070. Niggardly - Meanly Stingy; Parsimonious 3093. Notoriety - Disrepute; Ill Fame
3071. Niggle - Spend Too Much Time On Minor 3094. Nourish - Provide With Food Necessary For
Points (Esp. When Finding Fault); Find Fault Life And Growth
3072. Nihilism - Belief That Nothing Has Meaning 3095. Nourishment - Something That Nourishes;
Or Value; Belief That Destruction Of Existing Food
Political Or Social Institution 3096. Nova - Star That Suddenly Becomes Much
3073. Nihilist - One Who Considers Traditional Brighter And Then Returns To Its Original
Beliefs To Be Groundless And Existence Brightness
Meaningless 3097. Novelty - Something New; Newness
3074. Nimble - Quick In Movement; Agile; Quick In 3098. Novice - Beginner
Understanding 3099. Noxious - Harmful
3075. Nip - Snip Off; Stop Something’S Growth Or 3100. Nuance - Shade Of Slight Difference In
Development; Bite; Make Numb With Cold Meaning Or Color; Subtle Distinction
3076. Nirvana - In Buddhist Teachings, The Ideal 3101. Nubile - Marriageable; Of Marriageable Age
State In Which The Individual Loses Himself 3102. Nugatory - Worthless; Futile
3077. Nocturnal - Done Or Active At Night; Ex. 3103. Nullify - Make Invalid; Make Null; Invalidate
Nocturnal Animals/Raids 3104. Numismatist - Person Who Collects Coins
3078. Noisome - Foul Smelling; Very Unpleasant; 3105. Nuptial - Related To Marriage Or The
Unwholesome Wedding Ceremony
3079. Nomadic - Wandering; N. Nomad Tribe Who 3106. Nurse - Suckle; Take Care Of (As A Nurse);
Migrates From Place To Place Bear In Mind
3080. Nomenclature - Terminology(System Of 3107. Nurture - Nourish; Feed; Educate; Rear;
Specialized Words); System Of Names Or Care For While It Is Growing Or Developing;
Naming Things Foster; Cultivate
3081. Nominal - In Name Only; Of A Name; 3108. Nutrient - Nourishing Substance
Trifling; (Of A Sum Of Money) Very Small 3109. Nutrition - Process Of Nourishing Or Being
3082. Nonchalance - Indifference; Lack Of Nourished
Concern; Composure 3110. Nutritious - Providing Nourishment
3083. Noncommittal - Neutral;
Commitment To A Particular Opinion;
Refusing
O
Unpledged; Undecided 3111. Oaf - Stupid Awkward Person
3084. Nondescript - Indistinctive; Ordinary; 3112. Oath - Solemn Promise; Blasphemous Use
Ordinary-Looking; Ex. Nondescript Fellow In Of Sacred Words To Express Strong
A Crowd Feelings; Swear-Word
3085. Nonentity - Person Of No Importance; 3113. Oatmeal - Crushed Oats Used For Making
Nonexistence Porridge
3086. Nonplus - Put At A Loss; Bring To A Halt By 3114. Obdurate - Stubborn; Refusing To Change
Confusion; Perplex One’S Belief
3087. Nonsense - Speech Or Writing With No 3115. Obeisance - Bow (To Show Respect And
Meaning; Foolish Behavior Or Language Obedience)
3088. Noose - Loop Formed In A Rope 3116. Obelisk - Tall Column Tapering(Becoming
3089. Nostalgia - Homesickness; Longing For The Gradually Narrower Toward The End) And
Past Ending In A Pyramid
3090. Nostrum - Questionable Medicine; Quack 3117. Obese - Excessively Fat
Medicine 3118. Obfuscate - Confuse; Muddle; Cause
3091. Notable - Conspicuous; Worthy Of Note; Confusion; Make Needlessly Complex; Make
Remarkable; Important; Distinguished; So Confused As To Be Difficult To
Noted Understand
3092. Notch - V-Shaped Cut In A Surface

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
109
3119. Obituary - Death Notice (Esp. In A 3148. Odious - Arousing Strong Dislike;
Newspaper) Hateful(Causing Hatred); Vile
3120. Objective - Not Influenced By Emotions; Fair 3149. Odium - Detestation; Quality Of Being
3121. Obligatory - Binding; Required; Compulsory Odious; Hatefulness; Disrepute (Resulting
3122. Oblige - Constrain; Make Grateful; Do A From Hateful Conduct)
Favor; Accommodate 3150. Odoriferous - Giving Off An Odor
3123. Oblique - Indirect; Slanting (Deviating From 3151. Odorous - Having An Odor
The Perpendicular Or From A Straight Line) 3152. Odyssey - Long, Eventful, Adventurous
3124. Obliterate - Destroy Completely; Wipe Out Journey
3125. Oblivion - Obscurity; Condition Of Being 3153. Offend - Violate; Hurt The Feelings Of
Completely Forgotten; Forgetfulness 3154. Offense - Offending; Violating Of A Moral Or
3126. Oblivious - Inattentive Or Unmindful; Social Code; Crime; Attack
Unaware; Wholly Absorbed; 3155. Offensive - Attacking; Insulting; Distasteful
Forgetful(Having The Habit Of Forgetting) 3156. Offhand - Casual; Done Without Prior
3127. Obloquy - Slander; Disgrace; Infamy Thought Or Preparation
3128. Obnoxious - Offensive; Disagreeable 3157. Officious - Meddlesome; Excessively Pushy
3129. Obscure - Dark; Vague; Unclear; Not Well In Offering One’S Services; Overly Eager In
Known Offering Unwanted Services
3130. Obsequious - Slavishly Attentive; Servile; 3158. Ogle - Look At Amorously; Make Eyes At
Full Of Servile Compliance; Sycophantic 3159. Olfactory - Concerning The Sense Of Smell
3131. Obsequy - Funeral Ceremony 3160. Oligarchy - Government By A Privileged Few
3132. Obsess - Preoccupy The Mind Of 3161. Ominous - Threatening; Of An Evil Omen
Excessively 3162. Omnipotent - All-Powerful; Having
3133. Obsession - Compulsive Preoccupation Unlimited Power
With A Fixed Idea; Compulsive Idea 3163. Omnipresent - Universally Present;
3134. Obsessive - Related To Thinking About Ubiquitous
Something Constantly; Of An Obsession; 3164. Omniscient - All-Knowing
Preoccupying 3165. Omnivorous - Eating Both Plant And Animal
3135. Obsidian - Black Volcanic Rock Food; Devouring Everything
3136. Obsolete - Outmoded; No Longer Used 3166. Onerous - Burdensome
3137. Obstetrician - Physician Specializing In 3167. Onomatopoeia - Words Formed In Imitation
Delivery(Assisting In Giving Birth) Of Babies Of Natural Sounds
3138. Obstinate - Stubborn; Hard To Control Or 3168. Onslaught - Vicious Assault; Fierce Attack
Treat 3169. Onus - Burden; Responsibility
3139. Obstreperous - Boisterous; Noisy And 3170. Ooze - (Of A Thick Liquid) Pass Or Flow
Uncontrollable Slowly
3140. Obtrude - Push (Oneself Or One’S Ideas) 3171. Opalescent - Iridescent; Lustrous; Like An
Forward Or Intrude; Impose (Oneself Or Opal
One’S Ideas) On Others; Butt In 3172. Opaque - Dark; Not Transparent
3141. Obtuse - Blunt; Not Sharp; Stupid; Slow In 3173. Opiate - Medicine To Induce Sleep Or
Understanding Deaden Pain; Something That Relieves
3142. Obviate - Make Unnecessary; Get Rid Of Emotions Or Causes Inaction; Sleep-
3143. Occident - The West Producing Drug Containing Opium
3144. Occlude - Shut; Close; Obstruct 3174. Opportune - Timely; Well-Chosen
3145. Occult - Mysterious; Secret; Supernatural; 3175. Opportunist - Individual Who Sacrifices
Beyond Human Comprehension Principles For Expediency By Taking
3146. Oculist - Physician Who Specializes In Advantage Of Circumstances
Treatment Of The Eyes 3176. Opprobrious - Expressing Contempt;
3147. Odds - Chances; Probability; Disagreement Shameful Or Infamous

110
3177. Opprobrium - Infamy; Disgrace Arising 3201. Orthodox - Traditional; (Of Someone)
From Shameful Conduct; Conservative In Belief; Adhering To An
Vilification(Slander); Scorn; Contempt Established Doctrine
3178. Optician - Maker And Seller Of Eyeglasses 3202. Orthography - Correct Spelling
3179. Optimist - Person Who Looks On The Bright 3203. Oscillate - Vibrate Pendulum Like; Waver
Side 3204. Osseous - Made Of Bone; Bony
3180. Optimum - Most Favorable; Optimal 3205. Ossify - Change Or Harden Into Bone;
3181. Option - Act Of Choosing; Choice; Freedom Become Hard And Unchanging In One’S
Or Power To Choose Ideas
3182. Optional - Not Compulsory; Left To One’S 3206. Ostensible - Apparent; Appearing As Such;
Choice Professed(Pretended); Pretended
3183. Optometrist - One Who Fits Glasses To 3207. Ostentatious - Showy; Trying To Attract
Remedy Visual Defects Attention; Pretentious
3184. Opulence - Extreme Wealth; Luxuriousness; 3208. Ostracize - Banish From A Group; Exclude
Abundance From Public Favor; Ban
3185. Opulent - Possessing Great Wealth; 3209. Oust - Expel Drive Out; Force Out
Abundant 3210. Outcast - One That Has Been Excluded
3186. Opus - Work (Esp. Musical Composition) From A Society
3187. Oracular - Of An Oracle; Prophetic; Uttered 3211. Outfit - Clothing Or Equipment For A Special
As If With Divine Authority; Mysterious Or Purpose
Ambiguous; Hard To Understand 3212. Outgoing - Sociable; Eager To Mix Socially
3188. Orator - Public Speaker With Others
3189. Oratorio - Dramatic Poem Set To Music; 3213. Outlandish - Bizarre; Peculiar;
Long Musical Work With Singing But Unconventional
Without Acting 3214. Outlaw - Fugitive From The Law (Excluded
3190. Ordain - Decree Or Command; Grant Holy From Legal Protection)
Orders; Predestine; Install As A Minister, 3215. Outlook - Point Of View; View From A
Priest, Or Rabbi Particular Place; Expectation For The Future;
3191. Ordeal - Severe Trial Or Affliction; Difficult Prospect
Experience; Trial(Test Of Patience Or 3216. Outmoded - No Longer In Fashion Or Use;
Endurance); Affliction No Longer Stylish; Old-Fashioned
3192. Ordinance - Decree; Authoritative Order 3217. Outrage - Act Of Extreme Violence Or
3193. Ordination - Ceremony Conferring Holy Viciousness; Resentful Anger
Orders; Ceremony Of Ordaining A Priest 3218. Outrageous - Offensive
3194. Orgy - Wild Drunken Revelry; Unrestrained 3219. Outskirts - Fringes; Outer Borders (As Of A
Indulgence In An Activity City)
3195. Orient - Get One’S Bearings; Adjust; Make 3220. Outspoken - Candid; Blunt
Familiar With A Situation; Orientate 3221. Outstrip - Outrun; Surpass; Outdo
3196. Orientation - Act Of Finding Oneself In 3222. Outwit - Outsmart; Defeat By Behaving More
Society; Orienting Cleverly
3197. Orifice - Mouth Like Opening; Small 3223. Ovation - Enthusiastic Applause
Opening (Esp. To A Cavern Or Passage Of 3224. Overbear - Dominate
The Body) 3225. Overbearing - Bossy; Domineering And
3198. Ornate - Excessively Or Elaborately Arrogant; Decisively Important
Decorated 3226. Overblown - Inflated; Exaggerated
3199. Ornithologist - Scientific Student Of Birds 3227. Oversee - Watch Over And Direct; Supervise
3200. Ornithology - Scientific Study Of Birds 3228. Overt - Open To View; Public; Not Secret
3229. Overthrow - Topple

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
111
3230. Overture - Musical Introduction To A Long 3256. Palpitate - Throb; Beat Rapidly; Flutter;
Musical Piece; First Offer Or Proposal (To Tremble
Begin Talks In The Hope Of Reaching An 3257. Paltry - Insignificant; Petty; Trifling;
Agreement) Contemptible
3231. Overturn - Turn Over; Capsize; Topple 3258. Pan - Criticize Harshly
3232. Overweening - Arrogant; Presumptuous 3259. Panacea - Cure-All; Remedy For All
3233. Overwhelm - (Of Water) Cover Completely; Diseases
Defeat Completely By Much Greater Force 3260. Panache - Flair; Manner Of Doing Things
3234. Overwrought - Nervous Or Excited; Without Any Difficulty (Causing Admiration);
Extremely Agitated; Hysterical; Wrought-Up Flamboyance; Bunch Of Feathers (On A
3235. Ovoid - Egg-Shaped Helmet)
P 3261. Pandemic - Widespread; Affecting The
Majority Of People
3236. Pachyderm - Thick-Skinned Animal 3262. Pandemonium - Wild Tumult(Commotion);
3237. Pacifism - Opposition To War As A Means Wild Noisy Disorder
Of Resolving Disputes 3263. Pander - Cater To (The Low Desires Of
3238. Pacifist - One Opposed To Force; Others)
Antimilitarist 3264. Panegyric - Formal Praise; Encomium
3239. Pacify - Soothe; Make Calm Or Quiet; 3265. Pang - Sudden Sharp Feeling Of Pain
Subdue; Bring Peace To 3266. Panorama - Unbroken View Of A Wide Area
3240. Padre - Chaplain (In The Armed Forces) 3267. Panoramic - Denoting An Unobstructed And
3241. Paean - Song Of Praise Or Joy Comprehensive View
3242. Painstaking - Taking Pains; Showing Hard 3268. Pantomime - Acting Without Dialogue
Work; Taking Great Care; Very Careful And 3269. Papyrus - Ancient Paper Made From Stem
Through Of Papyrus Plant
3243. Palatable - Agreeable; Pleasing To The 3270. Parable - Short Simple Story Teaching A
Taste Moral
3244. Palate - Roof Of The Mouth; Sense Of The 3271. Paradigm - Model; Example That Serves As
Taste A Model; Pattern; List Of All The Inflectional
3245. Palatial - Of Or Suitable For A Palace; Forms Of A Word
Magnificent 3272. Paradox - Something Apparently
3246. Paleontology - Study Of Prehistoric Life Or Contradictory In Nature (That May
Fossils Nonetheless Be True); Statement That
3247. Palette - Board On Which Painter Mixes Looks False But Is Actually Correct
Pigments(Coloring Matters) 3273. Paragon - Model Of Perfection
3248. Palimpsest - Parchment Or Piece Of Writing 3274. Parallel - Similar; Analogous; Corresponding
Material Used For Second Time After 3275. Parallelism - State Of Being Parallel;
Original Writing Has Been Erased Similarity; Analogy
3249. Pall - Become Boring; Grow Tiresome 3276. Parameter - Limit; Independent Variable
3250. Pallet - Small Poor Bed 3277. Paramount - Foremost In Importance;
3251. Palliate - Ease Pain (Without Curing); Make Supreme
Less Severe Or Offensive (A Crime Or 3278. Paramour - Illicit Lover
Illness) 3279. Paranoia - Psychosis Marked By Delusions
3252. Pallid - Pale; Wan Of Grandeur Or Persecution
3253. Palm - Conceal In The Palm Of The Hand; 3280. Paranoid - Paranoiac
Palm Off Pass Off 3281. Paraphernalia - Equipment; Odds And Ends
3254. Palpable - Tangible; (Of Something Bad) Used In A Particular Activity; Personal
Easily Perceptible; Obvious Belongings
3255. Palpable - Tangible; Easily Perceptible

112
3282. Paraphrase - Restate A Passage In One’S 3308. Pastiche - Imitation Of Another’S Style In
Own Words While Retaining Thought Of Musical Composition Or In Writing
Author 3309. Pastoral Rural - Of Rural Life; Idyllic; Of A
3283. Parasite - Animal Or Plant Living On Pastor
Another; Toady; Sycophant 3310. Pastry - Paste Of Flour And Water (Eaten
3284. Parch - Make Or Become Extremely Dry (By When Baked)
Exposure To Heat) 3311. Patent - Obvious; Easily Seen; Open For The
3285. Parched - Extremely Dry; Very Thirsty Public To Read; Of Or Protected By A Patent
3286. Parchment - Writing Material Made From 3312. Pathetic - Causing Sadness, Compassion,
The Skin Of A Sheep Or Goat Pity; Touching
3287. Pare - Cut Away The Outer Covering Or Skin 3313. Pathological - Pertaining To Disease
Of (With A Knife); Trim 3314. Pathos - Tender Sorrow; Pity; Quality In Art
3288. Pariah - Social Outcast Or Literature That Produces These Feelings
3289. Parish - Area In The Care Of A Single Priest 3315. Patina - Green Crust On Old Bronze Works
And Served By One Main Church Or Copper; Tone Slowly Taken By Varnished
3290. Parity - Equality; Close Resemblance Painting
3291. Parlance - Language; Manner Of Speaking; 3316. Patois - Local Or Provincial Dialect
Idiom 3317. Patriarch - Father And Ruler Of A Family Or
3292. Parley - Conference (Between Opponents) Tribe
3293. Parochial - Narrow In Scope Or Outlook; 3318. Patrician - Noble; Aristocratic
Provincial; Related To Parishes 3319. Patrimony - Property Inherited From A
3294. Parody - Humorous Imitation; Spoof; Father
Takeoff; Travesty 3320. Patron - One That Supports; Regular
3295. Paroxysm - Fit Or Attack Of Pain, Laughter, Customer
Rage; Sudden Outburst 3321. Patronize - Support; Act Superior Toward;
3296. Parquet - Floor Made Of Wood Strips Inlaid Treat In A Condescending Manner; Be A
In A Mosaic Like Matter Customer Of
3297. Parry - Ward Off A Blow; Deflect
3298. Parsimony - Stinginess; Excessive Frugality
Q
3299. Partial - Incomplete; Favoring One Side 3322. Quack - Charlatan; Impostor
Over Another; Having A Liking For 3323. Quadruped - Four-Footed Animal
Something 3324. Quaff - Drink With Zest; Drink With
3300. Partiality - State Of Being Partial; Relish(Zest; Hearty Enjoyment)
Inclination; Favorable Bias; Special 3325. Quagmire - Bog; Marsh; Soft, Wet, Boggy
Fondness; Preference Land; Predicament; Complex Or Dangerous
3301. Partisan - One-Sided; Prejudiced; Situation
Committed To A Party (With Dislike Of Any 3326. Quail - Cower; Shrink Back In Fear; Lose
Others) Heart
3302. Partition - Divide Into Parts 3327. Quaint - Odd In An Old-Fashioned Way;
3303. Parvenu - Upstart; Newly Rich Person Odd; Old-Fashioned; Picturesque
3304. Pass - Off Present Falsely; Represent 3328. Qualified - Limited; Restricted
Falsely To Be 3329. Qualify - Reach A Necessary Standard; Limit
3305. Passé - Old-Fashioned; Past The Prime The Meaning Of Something Stated
3306. Passive - Not Active; Acted Upon; Receiving 3330. Qualms - Uneasy Feelings; Misgivings;
An Action Without Acting In Return; Uneasy Fears Especially About Matters Of
Accepting Without Resistance Conscience
3307. Paste - Smooth Viscous Mixture As Of 3331. Quandary - Dilemma; State Of Uncertainty
Flour(Powder Made By Crushing Grain) And 3332. Quarantine - Isolation Of A Person, Place, Or
Water (Used As An Adhesive) Ship To Prevent Spread Of Infection

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
113
3333. Quarry - Dig Into (To Get Stone) 3361. Rag - Scrap Of Cloth
3334. Quash - Crush; Suppress; Squash; Subdue; 3362. Ragamuffin - Dirty Child In Torn Clothes;
Annul Person Wearing Tattered Clothes
3335. Quay - Dock; Wharf; Pier; Landing Place 3363. Ragged - Old And Torn; Seeming Unfinished
(For Boats) And Imperfect
3336. Queasy - Experiencing Nausea; Nauseated; 3364. Rail - Complain Bitterly; Scold; Rant
Easily Nauseated; Squeamish 3365. Raiment - Clothing; Garments
3337. Queer - Strange; Eccentric; Deviating From 3366. Rake - Immoral Or Dissolute Person
The Normal 3367. Rakish - Jaunty; Stylish; Sporty; Morally
3338. Quell - Suppress; Put An End To; Put Down Corrupt; Dissolute
Forcibly; Extinguish; Quiet 3368. Rally - Come Or Bring Together; Call Up Or
3339. Quench - Assuage Or Satisfy (Thrust); Summon (Forces, Vital Powers, Etc.); Revive
Slake; Douse Or Extinguish; Put Out; Or Recuperate
Suppress 3369. Ram - Male Sheep
3340. Querulous - Given To Complaining; 3370. Ramble - Wander Aimlessly (Physically Or
Complaining; Fretful; Whining Mentally); Digress
3341. Query - Inquiry; Question 3371. Ramification - Branching Out; Subdivision;
3342. Queue - Line (Of Waiting People Or Vehicles) One Branch Of A System; One Of The
3343. Quibble - Minor Objection Or Complaint Results Following From An Action
3344. Quicksilver - Mercury 3372. Ramify - Branch Out; Divide Into Branches
3345. Quiescent - Dormant; Temporarily Inactive Or Subdivisions
3346. Quietude - Tranquility; Calmness 3373. Ramp - Slope; Inclined Plane Or Roadway
3347. Quintessence - Purest And Highest (Connecting Two Levels)
Embodiment; Perfect Example; Apotheosis; 3374. Rampant - Growing Or Spreading
Most Essential Element Uncontrollably; Growing In Profusion;
3348. Quip - Taunt; Clever Sarcastic Remark Unrestrained
3349. Quirk - Sudden Sharp Turn Or Twist; 3375. Rampart - Defensive Mound Of Earth
Startling Twist; Caprice; Idiosyncrasy; 3376. Ramshackle - (Of A Building Or Vehicle)
Peculiarity Of Behavior Poorly Constructed; Rickety; Falling Apart
3350. Quisling - Traitor Who Aids Invaders 3377. Rancid - Having The Odor Of Stale Or
3351. Quiver - Tremble; Shake Decomposing Fat; Rank
3352. Quixotic - Idealistic But Impractical 3378. Rancor - Long-Lasting Hatred; Bitterness
3353. Quizzical - Curious; Suggesting Puzzlement 3379. Random - Without Definite Purpose, Plan, Or
(Without Saying); Questioning; Teasing; Aim; Haphazard
Mocking; Bantering 3380. Rank - Offensive In Odor Or Flavor
3354. Quorum - Minimal Number Of Members 3381. Rankle - Irritate; Fester; Annoy
Necessary To Conduct A Meeting 3382. Ransack - Search Thoroughly; Pillage
3355. Quotidian - Daily; Commonplace; Customary (Going Through A Place)
R 3383. Rant - Speak Violently Or Excitedly; Rave;
Talk Excitedly Showing Anger; Scold; Make
3356. Rabble - Mob; Noisy Crowd A Grandiloquent Speech
3357. Rabid - Of Or Suffering Rabies; Like A 3384. Rapacious - Voracious; Ravenous; Taking
Fanatic; Extremely Zealous; Furious Everything One Can; Excessively Grasping;
3358. Rabies - Disease Passed On By The Bite Of Plundering
An Infected Animal (Causing Madness And 3385. Rapport - Close Relationship; Emotional
Death) Closeness; Harmony
3359. Raconteur - Story-Teller; One Who Tells 3386. Rapt - Engrossed; Absorbed; Enchanted
Stories With Wit And Skill 3387. Rapture - Great Joy And Delight; Ecstasy
3360. Raffle - Lottery 3388. Rare - (Of Air) Thin In Density; Rarefied

114
3389. Rarefied - Made Less Dense (Of A Gas) 3416. Rebuttal - Refutation; Response With
3390. Rarefy - Make Less Dense Contrary Evidence
3391. Rasp - (Of A Sound) Grate On (Eg. Nerves); 3417. Recalcitrant - Disobedient Or Resisting
Make A Harsh Noise; Have An Unpleasant Authority Even After Being Punished;
Effect; Rub With Something Rough Obstinately Stubborn
3392. Raspy - Making A Harsh Noise; Grating; 3418. Recant - Disclaim Or Disavow; Retract A
Harsh Previous Statement; Openly Confess Error
3393. Ratify - Approve Formally; Confirm; Verify 3419. Recapitulate - Summarize
3394. Ratiocinate - Reason Logically 3420. Recast - Reconstruct (A Sentence, Story,
3395. Ratiocination - Reasoning; Act Of Drawing Statue, Etc.); Fashion Again
Conclusions From Premises 3421. Receptive - Quick Or Willing To Receive
3396. Ration - Fixed Portion (Ideas, Suggestions, Etc.)
3397. Rational - (Of A Person) Having Reason; (Of 3422. Recess - Pause; Temporary Cessation;
Ideas) Based On Reason; Logical Alcove; Secret Inner Place
3398. Rationale - Fundamental Reason Or 3423. Recession - Withdrawal; Retreat; Time Of
Principle (On Which A System Or Principle Is Low Economic Activity
Based); Fundamental Reason Or 3424. Recidivism - Habitual Return To Crime
Justification; Grounds For An Action (Even After Being Punished)
3399. Rationalize - Make Rational; Devise False 3425. Recipient - Receiver
Reasons For (One’S Behavior); Offer An 3426. Reciprocal - Mutual; Given And Received In
Excuse; Give A Plausible Reason For An Return; Exchangeable; Interacting
Action In Place Of A True 3427. Reciprocate - Do Or Give Something In
3400. Raucous - (Of Voice) Harsh And Return; Repay In Kind; Give Or Take
Unpleasant; (Of People) Disorderly And Mutually; Interchange; Move
Boisterous 3428. Recital - Act Of Reciting Publicly; Detailed
3401. Ravage - Devastate; Plunder; Despoil Account; Performance Of Music Or Dance
3402. Rave - Overwhelmingly Favorable Review (By A Solo Performer)
3403. Ravel - Fall Apart Into Tangles; Entangle; 3429. Recite - Repeat Aloud (Something Learned);
Unravel Or Untwist Describe
3404. Ravenous - Extremely Hungry; Voracious 3430. Reckon - Count; Calculate; Regard As;
3405. Ravine - Narrow Valley With Steep Sides; Think; Suppose
Gorge 3431. Recline - Lie Down
3406. Raze - Destroy Completely 3432. Recluse - Hermit; Loner
3407. Reactionary - Strongly Opposed To Social 3433. Reconcile - Make Friendly Again (After
Or Political Change; Opposing Progress; Quarrel); Make Consistent (Two Ideas In
Politically Ultraconservative Opposition); Correct Inconsistencies
3408. Realm - Kingdom; Field Or Sphere 3434. Recondite - Abstruse; Not Easily
3409. Reap - Cut And Gather (Crop); Harvest A Understood; Profound; Secret
Crop 3435. Reconnaissance - Survey Of Enemy By
3410. Reaper - One Who Harvests Grain Soldiers; Reconnoitering
3411. Rebate - Return Of Part Of A Payment; 3436. Reconnoiter - Make A Preliminary
Discount Inspection Of (Esp. To Gather Military
3412. Rebuff - Reject Bluntly; Snub; Beat Back Information)
3413. Rebuke - Scold Harshly; Criticize Severely 3437. Recount - Narrate Or Tell (A Story); Count
3414. Rebus - Representation Of Words In The Over Again
Form Of Pictures Or Symbols; Puzzle In 3438. Recourse - Resorting To Help When In
Which Pictures Or Letters Stand For Words; Trouble
Ex. R U 18 Is A Rebus For Are You 18 3439. Recreant - Disloyal; Cowardly
3415. Rebut - Refute; Disprove 3440. Recrimination - Countercharges

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
115
3441. Rectify - Set Right; Correct 3470. Regiment - Military Unit

3442. Rectitude - Moral Correctness; Moral 3471. Rehabilitate - Restore To Proper Condition
Uprightness; Moral Virtue; Correctness Of (Health Or Useful Life); Restore The Former
Judgment Rank Of
3443. Recumbent - Reclining; Lying Down 3472. Reimburse - Repay; Pay Back
Completely Or In Part 3473. Reinstate - Restore To A Previous Condition
3444. Recuperate - Recover; Return To Health; Or Position
Regain 3474. Reiterate - Repeat
3445. Recurrent - Occurring Again And Again 3475. Rejoin - Say In Reply
3446. Redolent - Odorous; Fragrant; Suggestive 3476. Rejoinder - Reply; Retort; Comeback
(Of An Odor) 3477. Rejuvenate - Make Young Again
3447. Redoubtable - Formidable; Causing Fear 3478. Relapse - Return To A Former State (Esp.
3448. Redress - Remedy; Compensation After Improvement)
3449. Reduce - Diminish; Bring To A Weaker Or 3479. Relegate - Put Into A Lower Or Worse Place;
More Difficult Condition; Demote; Lower In Banish To An Inferior Position; Delegate;
Rank Assign
3450. Redundant - Superfluous; More Than Is 3480. Relent - Become Less Severe; Give
Necessary; Verbose; Excessively Wordy; In(Surrender)
Repetitious 3481. Relentless - Unyielding; Continuously
3451. Reek - Emit (An Unpleasant Odor Or Severe
Smoke); Give Off An Unpleasant Odor; Give 3482. Relevant - Having Importance; Pertinent;
Out Smoke Referring To The Case In Hand
3452. Refectory - Dining Hall; Room Where Meals 3483. Relic - Surviving Remnant (From An Extinct
Are Served (In A School) Culture); Memento; Keepsake; Relics Corpse
3453. Referendum - Direct Vote By All The People 3484. Religious - Of Religion; (Of A Person) Pious;
3454. Refraction - Bending Of A Ray Of Light Having Reverence For A Deity
3455. Refractory - Unmanageable; Disobedient 3485. Relinquish - Give Up Something (With
And Stubborn Reluctance); Yield; Release
3456. Refrain - Abstain From; Resist; Forbear 3486. Relish - Enjoy; Savor
3457. Refulgent - Effulgent; Brilliant; Brightly 3487. Remediable - Reparable
Shining; Gleaming 3488. Reminisce - Recollect The Past
3458. Refurbish - Renovate; Make Clean, Bright, 3489. Reminiscence - Recollection
Or Fresh (Make New) Again; Make Bright By 3490. Reminiscent - Suggestive Of Something (In
Polishing The Past); Of Reminiscence
3459. Refuse - Anything Discarded Or Rejected As 3491. Remiss - Negligent; Careless About A Duty
Worthless; Trash 3492. Remission - Temporary Moderation (Of
3460. Refute - Disprove; Prove To Be False Disease Symptoms); Remitting Of A Debt Or
3461. Regal - Royal; Of A Monarch Punishment; Cancellation Of A Debt; Pardon
3462. Regale - Entertain 3493. Remit - Transmit (Money) In Payment; Free
3463. Regatta - Boat Or Yacht Race Someone From A Debt Or Punishment
3464. Regenerate - Give Or Obtain New Life; 3494. Remittance - Remitting Of Money; Amount
Reform Spiritually Of Money Remitted
3465. Regeneration - Spiritual Rebirth 3495. Remnant - Remainder
3466. Regent - A Person Who Governs In Place Of 3496. Remonstrate - Protest; Objection
A Ruler Who Is Ill, Absent, Or Still A Child 3497. Remorse - Deep Regret For Wrongdoing;
3467. Regicide - Murder Of A King Or Queen Guilt; Self-Reproach
3468. Regime - Method Of System Or Government 3498. Remunerative - (Of Work) Compensating;
3469. Regimen - Prescribed Course Of Diet Or Rewarding; Profitable; Well-Paid
Exercise; Prescribed Diet And Habits 3499. Rend - Split; Tear Apart

116
3500. Render - Give; Deliver; Provide; Represent 3530. Reprimand - Reprove Severely; Rebuke
In Verbal Or Artistic Form; Depict; Perform; 3531. Reprisal - Retaliation
Make; Translate 3532. Reprise - Musical Repetition; Repeating Of
3501. Rendezvous - Meeting Place; Meeting At A A Piece Of Music; Repeat Performance;
Set Time Or Place Recurrent Action
3502. Rendition - Rendering; Translation; Artistic 3533. Reproach - Blame (Not Angrily But Sadly);
Interpretation Of A Song, Etc Express Disapproval Or Disappointment
3503. Renegade - Deserter; Traitor 3534. Reprobate - Morally Disapproved Person;
3504. Renege - Break A Promise; Deny; Go Back Person Hardened In Sin, Devoid Of A Sense
On Of Decency
3505. Renounce - Abandon; Give Up (By Formal 3535. Reprobation - Severe Disapproval
Announcement); Disown; Repudiate 3536. Reprove - Censure; Rebuke
3506. Renovate - Restore To Good Condition; 3537. Repudiate - Disown; Disavow; Deny
Renew 3538. Repugnance - Disgust; Strong Dislike;
3507. Renown - Fame Loathing
3508. Rent - Tear Made By Rending; Rip; Split 3539. Repugnant - Arousing Disgust; Repulsive
3509. Reparable - Capable Of Being Repaired 3540. Repulse - Reject With Rudeness Or
3510. Reparation - Compensation (For Loss Or Coldness (An Offer Or Friendship); Drive
Wrong); Amends Back (An Enemy Attack)
3511. Repartee - Quick Clever Reply 3541. Repulsion - Distaste; Disgust; Act Of Driving
3512. Repast - Meal; Feast; Banquet Back
3513. Repeal - Revoke; Annul 3542. Repulsive - Causing Disgust; Tending To
3514. Repel - Drive Away; Disgust Drive Away
3515. Repellent - Driving Away; Disgusting; 3543. Reputable - Respectable; Having A Good
Offensive; Repulsive; Unattractive Reputation
3516. Repercussion - Rebound; Reaction; 3544. Repute - Consider
Reverberation 3545. Repute - Reputation; Esteem
3517. Repertoire - List Of Works Of Music, Drama, 3546. Reputed - Supposed
Etc., A Performer Is Prepared To Present 3547. Requiem - Mass For The Dead; Dirge
3518. Repine Fret - Complain; Be Annoyed 3548. Required - Necessary
3519. Replenish - Fill Up Again 3549. Requisite - Necessary Requirement;
3520. Replete - Fully Filled; Filled To The Brim Or Something Required
To The Point Of Being Stuffed; Abundantly 3550. Requisition - Formal Demand Or Request
Supplied 3551. Requite - Make Return For; Repay;
3521. Replica - Copy Reciprocate; Revenge
3522. Replicate - Reproduce; Duplicate 3552. Rescind - Repeal; Annul; Cancel (A Law,
3523. Repose - Resting; State Of Being At Rest; Decision, Or Agreement)
Calmness 3553. Resent - Feel Anger About
3524. Repository - Storehouse 3554. Resentment - Indignation; Bitterness;
3525. Reprehend - Blame Displeasure
3526. Reprehensible - Deserving Blame; 3555. Reserve - Self-Control; Self-Restraint;
Blameworthy Formal But Distant Manner; Reticence
3527. Representational - (Of A Style Of Art) 3556. Reserved - Shy And Uncommunicative
Showing Things As They Actually Appear In 3557. Residual - Remaining; Left Over; Of A
Real Life Residue
3528. Repress - Hold Back (The Natural 3558. Residue - Remainder; Balance
Expression Of); Restrain; Crush; Oppress 3559. Resign - Give Up (A Position, Right, Or
3529. Reprieve - Postponement Or Cancellation Of Claim); Submit (Oneself) Passively
A Punishment; Temporary Stay

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117
3560. Resignation - Patiently Submissiveness; 3586. Retarded - (As Of A Child) Slower In

Statement That One Is Quitting A Job Development
3561. Resilient - Elastic; Having The Power Of 3587. Retentive - Holding; Able To Retain Things
Springing Back; Able To Recover Quickly (As (Esp. Facts In The Mind); Having A Good
From Misfortune) Memory
3562. Resolute - Firm Or Determined In Purpose 3588. Reticent - Inclined To Silence;
3563. Resolution - Determination; Resoluteness Uncommunicative; Reserved
3564. Resolve - Decide; Settle; Solve; Separate; 3589. Retinue - Following; Attendants
Make A Determined Decision 3590. Retiring - Shy And Reserved (Of A Person);
3565. Resonant - (Of A Sound) Echoing; Modest
Resounding(Sounding Loudly); Deep And 3591. Retort - Quick Sharp Reply
Full In Sound; Producing Resonance 3592. Retract - Withdraw; Take Back; Draw Back
3566. Resort - Turn To For Help 3593. Retrench - Cut Down; Cut Down Expenses;
3567. Resound - (Of A Place) Be Filled With Economize
Sound; (Of A Sound) Sound Loudly; Sound 3594. Retribution - Deserved Punishment For
Back; Echo Wrongdoing; Punishment For Offenses;
3568. Resourceful - Clever And Imaginative (In Compensation; Vengeance
Dealing With Difficult Situations) 3595. Retrieve - Recover; Put Right; Find And
3569. Respiration - Breathing; Exhalation Bring In; Regain
3570. Respite - Time For Rest; Interval Of Relief; 3596. Retroactive - Taking Effect Before Its
Delay In Punishment; Reprieve Enactment (As A Law) Or Imposition (As A
3571. Resplendent - Brilliant; Splendid In Tax)
Appearance; Dazzling; Glorious 3597. Retrograde - Go Backwards; Recede;
3572. Responsive - Readily Reacting Degenerate; Deteriorate
3573. Responsiveness - State Of Reacting Readily 3598. Retrospective - Looking Back On The Past
To Appeals, Orders 3599. Revel - Engage Boisterous Festivities; Enjoy
3574. Restitution - Returning Something (Lost Or Greatly
Stolen) To The Rightful Owner; Reparation; 3600. Revelry - Boisterous Merrymaking
Indemnification; Compensation For Loss 3601. Reverberate - Echo Repeatedly; Resound
3575. Restive - Impatiently Restless (Induced By 3602. Revere - Regard With Reverence
External Coercion Or Restriction); Restlessly 3603. Reverence - Profound Respect
Impatient; Obstinately Resisting Control 3604. Reverend - Deserving Reverence
3576. Restraint - Moderation Or Self-Control; 3605. Reverent - Respectful; Worshipful
Controlling Force; Restriction 3606. Reverie - Daydream; Abstracted Musing
3577. Resume - Begin Or Take Up Again; Take Or 3607. Revert - Relapse; Backslide; Turn Back To;
Occupy Again Return To The Former Owner
3578. Resumption - Taking Up Again; 3608. Revile - Attack With Abusive Language;
Recommencement Vilify(Slander)
3579. Resurge - Rise Again; Flow To And Fro 3609. Revoke - Cancel; Retract
3580. Resurgent - (Of Ideas Or Beliefs) 3610. Revulsion - Sudden Strong Feeling Of
Experiencing Revival; Surging Again Disgust; Sudden Violent Change Of Feeling;
3581. Resurrect - Revive Negative Reaction
3582. Resuscitate - Revive; Bring Back To Life Or 3611. Rhapsodize - Speak Or Write In An
Consciousness Exaggeratedly Enthusiastic Manner
3583. Retain - Keep; Maintain Possession Of; 3612. Rhapsody - Excessively Enthusiastic
Employ (Esp. A Lawyer Or Advisor) Expression Of Feeling; Musical Composition
3584. Retaliate - Repay In Kind (Usually For Bad Of Irregular Form
Treatment)
3585. Retard - Delay (In Development)

118
3613. Rhetoric - Art Of Effective Communication; 3643. Rouse - Waken; Arouse From Sleep Or
Art Of Using Language Effectively And Depression; Excite; Stir Up
Persuasively; Style Of Speaking Or Writing 3644. Rousing - Lively; Inducing Excitement;
3614. Ribald - Marked By Vulgar Lewd Humor; Stirring
Wanton; Profane 3645. Rout - Put To Rout; Stampede; Drive Out
3615. Rickety - (Of Buildings) Likely To Break Or 3646. Rubble - Fragments (Esp. From A Destroyed
Fall Apart; Of Rickets Building)
3616. Riddle - Pierce With Holes; Permeate Or 3647. Rubric - Title Or Heading (In Red Print);
Spread Throughout Directions For Religious Ceremony; Protocol
3617. Rider - Amendment Or Clause Added To A 3648. Ruddy - Reddish; (Of The Face) Reddish
Legislative Bill And Healthy-Looking
3618. Rife - (Of Something Bad) Widespread; 3649. Rudiment - Fundamental Element Or
Abundant; Current Principle
3619. Rift - Narrow Opening In A Large Mass; 3650. Rudimentary - Elementary; Not Developed;
Break In A Friendly Relation Crude
3620. Rig Arrangement - Of Masts And Sails 3651. Rue - Regret; Lament; Mourn
3621. Righteous - Morally Upright; Just 3652. Ruffian - Violent Scoundrel; Bully
3622. Rightful - Legally Correct 3653. Rumble - Make Or Move With A Deep Rolling
3623. Rigid - Hard And Unbending; Stiff And Sound (As Thunder Or Stomach)
Unyielding; Fixed In Behavior Or Views; 3654. Ruminant - Animal That Ruminates
Strict; Rigorous 3655. Ruminate - Chew Over And Over (Mentally
3624. Rigor - Severity Or, Like Cows, Physically); Mull
3625. Rile - Irritate; Vex; Muddy Over(Ponder)
3626. Rip - Tear Or Be Torn Quickly And Violently 3656. Rummage - Ransack; Thoroughly Search
3627. Rivet - Metal Pin Used For Fastening Metal 3657. Run-Down - (Of A Place) Dilapidated; In A
Plates Together Bad Condition; (Of A Person) Weak Or
3628. Riveting - Holding One’S Attention; Exhausted
Absorbing; Engrossing 3658. Rune - One Of The Letters Of An Alphabet
3629. Rivulet - Small Stream Used By Ancient Germanic Peoples (Cut On
3630. Robust - Strong; Vigorous Stone Or Wood); Magic Charm
3631. Rococo - Ornate; Highly Decorated 3659. Runic - Mysterious; Set Down In An Ancient
3632. Roil - Make Liquids Murky By Stirring Up Alphabet
Sediment; Disturb 3660. Ruse - Trick To Deceive; Stratagem
3633. Rolling - (Of Land) Rising And Falling In 3661. Rustic - Pertaining To Country People;
Long Gentle Slopes; Happening Unsophisticated; Simple; Crude; Uncouth
Continuously By Stages 3662. Rusticate - Banish To The Country; Dwell In
3634. Romp - Play Or Frolic Boisterously; Gambol The Country
3635. Rooster - Cock; Adult Male Chicken 3663. Rustle - Make Slight Sounds Like Silk
3636. Roseate - Rosy; Optimistic Moving Or Being Rubbed Together
3637. Roster - List (Of Names) 3664. Ruthless - Pitiless; Merciless; Cruel
3638. Rostrum - Raised Platform For Speech-
Making; Pulpit
S
3639. Rote - Repetition; Memorization Through 3665. Sabotage - Destruction Of Property (Usually
Repetition Without Understanding Carried Out Secretly)
3640. Rotund - (Of A Person) Fat And Round 3666. Saboteur - One Who Commits Sabotage;
3641. Rotunda - Circular Building Or Hall Covered Destroyer Of Property
With A Dome 3667. Saccharine - Cloying Sweet; Characteristic
3642. Rotundity - Roundness; Sonorousness Of Of Sugar Or Saccharin
Speech

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
119
3668. Sacrilege - Desecration, Misuse, Or Theft Of 3696. Satirical - Using Satire; Mocking
Something Sacred 3697. Saturate - Soak Thoroughly; Imbue;
3669. Sacrilegious - Desecrating; Profane Impregnate; Charge; Fill To Capacity
3670. Sacrosanct - Inviolably Sacred; Most 3698. Saturnine - Morose; Gloomy
Sacred; Inviolable 3699. Satyr - Half-Human, Half-Bestial Being In
3671. Sadistic - Inclined To Cruelty The Court Of Dionysus (Resembling A Goat),
3672. Saga - Scandinavian Myth; Any Legend; Portrayed As Wanton(Unrestrained) And
Long Heroic Narrative Cunning; Lecher
3673. Sagacious - Wise; Perceptive; Shrewd; 3700. Saunter - Stroll(Go For A Leisurely Walk)
Having Insight Slowly
3674. Sage - Person Celebrated For Wisdom; Wise 3701. Savant - Scholar; Learned Person
Person 3702. Savor - Enjoy; Have A Distinctive Flavor,
3675. Salacious - Lascivious; Lustful Smell, Or Quality
3676. Salient - Prominent; Projecting Beyond A 3703. Savory - Pleasant In Taste; Tasty; Pleasing,
Line; Conspicuous Attractive, Or Agreeable
3677. Saline - Salty 3704. Scabbard - Case For A Sword Blade; Sheath
3678. Sallow - (Of The Skin) Yellowish And 3705. Scad - A Great Quantity
Unhealthy-Looking; Sickly In Color 3706. Scaffold - Temporary Platform For Workers
3679. Salubrious - Healthful; Conducive To Health (To Work At Heights Above The Ground)
Or Well-Being; Socially Desirable 3707. Scale - Climb Up; Ascend; Remove Or Come
3680. Salutary - Tending To Improve; Beneficial; Off In Scales
Wholesome 3708. Scanty - Meager; Insufficient
3681. Salvage - Rescue (Goods Or Property) From 3709. Scapegoat - Someone Who Bears The
Loss Blame For Others; Whipping Boy
3682. Sanctimonious - Displaying Ostentatious Or 3710. Scavenge - Hunt Through Discarded
Hypocritical Devoutness Materials For Usable Items Or Food; Search,
3683. Sanction - Approve; Ratify Especially For Food
3684. Sanctuary - Place Of Refuge; Shelter; 3711. Scavenger - One Who Scavenges; Animal
Shrine; Holy Place That Feeds On Refuse And Carrion
3685. Sanguinary - Bloody; With Much Bloodshed 3712. Scenario - Plot Outline; Screenplay(Script
3686. Sanguine - Optimistic; Cheerful; Hopeful; Of For A Movie); Opera Libretto; Outline Of
The Color Of Blood; Red Possible Future Events
3687. Sap - Diminish; Weaken; Undermine The 3713. Schematic - Of A Schema Or Scheme;
Foundations Of (A Fortification) Relating To An Outline Or Diagram; Using A
3688. Sarcasm - Cutting Ironic Remark; Scornful System Of Symbols
Remarks; Stinging Rebuke 3714. Scheme - Systematic Plan; Plot; Clever
3689. Sardonic - Scornfully Mocking; Disdainful; Dishonest Plan; Orderly Arrangement Of
Sarcastic; Cynical Elements
3690. Sartorial - Pertaining To Tailors Or Tailoring 3715. Schism - Division Into Factions (Esp. Within
3691. Sate - Satisfy To The Full; Satisfy To A Religious Body); Split
Excess; Cloy 3716. Scholarly - Full Of Learning; Erudite; Like A
3692. Satellite - Small Body Revolving Around A Scholar
Larger One 3717. Scintilla - Trace; Minute Amount; Shred;
3693. Satiate - Satisfy Fully (Physical Needs Such Least Bit
As Hunger); Sate 3718. Scintillate - Sparkle; Flash; Be Animated; Be
3694. Satiety - Condition Of Being Satiated Full Of Life
3695. Satire - Form Of Literature In Which Irony, 3719. Scion - Detached Plant Shoot Used In
Sarcasm, And Ridicule Are Employed To Grafting; Descendant
Attack Human Vice And Folly 3720. Scoff - Laugh (At); Mock; Ridicule

120
3721. Scorch - Sear 3751. Sectarian - Of A Sect; Narrow-Minded;

3722. Score - Number Of Points; Written Form Of Parochial
A Musical Composition; Reason; Group Of 3752. Secular - Worldly; Not Pertaining To Church
20; Notch Or Incision Matters Or Religion; Temporal
3723. Scotch - Stamp Out(Put An End To); 3753. Sedate - Composed (With No Excitement);
Thwart; Hinder Grave
3724. Scourge - Lash; Whip (Formerly Used For 3754. Sedentary - Requiring Sitting; Done While
Punishment); Source Of Severe Punishment Sitting; Not Moving From One Place To
3725. Scowl - Frown Angrily Another; Settled
3726. Scrap - Small Bit Or Fragment; Discarded 3755. Sedition - Conduct Or Language Inciting
Waste Material; Fight Rebellion; Rebellion; Resistance To
3727. Scrappy - Quarrelsome Authority; Insubordination
3728. Scraps - Leftover Food 3756. Seduce - Lead Away From Proper Conduct;
3729. Screech - Unpleasant High Sharp Sound; Entice
Shriek 3757. Sedulous - Diligent; Assiduous; Paying
3730. Scrimmage - Disorderly Fight Between Two Attention
Or More People 3758. Seedy - Run-Down; Decrepit; Disreputable;
3731. Scruple - Hesitate For Ethical Reasons; Fret Having Many Seeds
About 3759. Seemly - (Of Behavior) Proper; Appropriate
3732. Scrupulous - Conscientious; Extremely 3760. Seep - Pass Slowly Through Small
Thorough Openings; Ooze; Trickle
3733. Scrutinize - Examine Closely And Critically 3761. Seethe - Be Violently Disturbed; Boil; (Of A
3734. Scuffle - Struggle Confusedly; Move Off In A Liquid) Move About Wildly As If Boiling
Confused Hurry 3762. Seine - Seine Net; Net For Catching Fish
3735. Scurrilous - Abusive; Obscene; Indecent 3763. Seismic - Pertaining To Earthquakes
3736. Scurry - Move Hastily; Hurry; Move Briskly 3764. Selective - Careful In Choosing; Having An
3737. Scurvy - Contemptible; Despicable Effect Only On Certain Things; Not General
3738. Scuttle - Sink (A Ship) By Cutting Holes In 3765. Self-Indulgence - Excessive Indulgence Of
The Hull; Scrap; Discard One’S Own Desire
3739. Seamy - Sordid; Base; Filthy; Unwholesome 3766. Self-Righteous - Sure Of One’S Own
3740. Sear - Burn The Surface Of; Char Or Burn; Righteousness; Moralistic
Brand; Parch; Cause (A Plant) To Wither 3767. Semblance - Outward Appearance; Guise
3741. Season - Enhance The Flavor Of By Adding 3768. Seminal - Related To Seed Or Semen;
A Spice, Etc.; Inure; Harden Germinal; Creative; Providing A Basis For
3742. Seasonable - Occurring At The Proper Time Further Development
Or Season; Opportune 3769. Seminary - School For Training Future
3743. Seasonal - Of A Particular Season Ministers; Secondary School, Especially For
3744. Seasoned - Experienced Young Women
3745. Secede - Withdraw Formally From 3770. Senile - Resulting From Old Age; Showing
Membership The Weakness Of Body Or Mind From Old
3746. Secession - Withdrawal Age
3747. Seclude - Set Apart From Others; Isolate 3771. Senility - Old Age; Feeblemindedness Of Old
3748. Seclusion - Isolation; Solitude Age
3749. Secrete - Conceal; Hide Away Or Cache; 3772. Sensitization - Process Of Being Made
Produce And Release A Substance Into An Sensitive Or Acutely Responsive To An
Organism External Agent Or Substance
3750. Sect - Separate Religious Body; Faction; 3773. Sensitize - Make Or Become Sensitive
Group Of People With Common Beliefs 3774. Sensual - Devoted To The Pleasures Of The
Within A Larger Group Sense; Carnal; Voluptuous

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
121
3775. Sensuous - Giving Pleasure To The Senses; 3802. Shaving - Very Thin Piece, Usually Of Wood
Pertaining To The Physical Senses; (Cut From A Surface With A Sharp Blade)
Operating Through The Senses 3803. Sheaf - Bundle Of Stalks Of Grain; Any
3776. Sententious - Pithy; Terse; Concise; Bundle Of Things Tied Together
Aphoristic 3804. Shear - Remove (Fleece Or Hair) By Cutting;
3777. Sentient - Capable Of Sensation And Remove The Hair Or Fleece From; Cut With
Conscious; Aware; Sensitive Or As If With Shears
3778. Sentimental - Swayed By Sentiment; 3805. Sheathe - Place Into A Case; Insert Into Or
Appealing To The Sentiments Provide With A Sheath
3779. Sentinel - Sentry; Lookout 3806. Shed - Small Roofed Structure For Storage
3780. Sepsis - Poisoning Of Part Of The Body And Shelter
(Producing Pus) 3807. Sheer - Pure; Thin And Transparent; Very
3781. Septic - Of Or Causing Sepsis; Putrid; Steep
Producing Putrefaction 3808. Sherbet - Flavored Dessert Ice
3782. Sepulcher - Tomb 3809. Shift - Change Position Or Place; Exchange
3783. Sequester - Isolate; Segregate; Seclude; (One Thing) For Another; Change In
Retire From Public Life Direction Or Position
3784. Sere Sear - Parched; Dry 3810. Shimmer - Shine With A Flickering Light;
3785. Serendipity - Gift For Finding Valuable Glimmer Intermittently
Things By Accident; Accidental Good 3811. Shirk - Avoid (Responsibility, Work, Etc.);
Fortune Or Luck Malinger
3786. Serenity - Calmness; Placidity 3812. Shoddy - Made Of Inferior Material; Sham;
3787. Serpentine - Winding; Twisting; Of Or Like A Not Genuine; Inferior; Dishonest
Serpent 3813. Shoot - New Growth From A Plant
3788. Serrated - Having A Saw-Toothed Edge 3814. Shove - Push Forward; Push Roughly
3789. Servile - Slavish; Cringing 3815. Shrew - Scolding Woman; Very Small Mouse
3790. Servitude - Slavery; Compulsory Labor Like Animal
Imposed As A Punishment 3816. Shrewd - Clever; Astute
3791. Sever - Separate; Cut Off (A Part) From A 3817. Shrivel - Make Or Become Shrunken And
Whole; Break Up (A Relationship) Wrinkled (Often By Drying)
3792. Severe - Harsh; Strict; Extremely Violent Or 3818. Shudder - Shake Uncontrollably; Tremble
Intense 3819. Shuffle - Mix Together; Jumble; Move
3793. Severity - Harshness; Intensity; Sternness; (Something) From One Place To Another
Austerity 3820. Shun - Keep Away From; Avoid Deliberately
3794. Sextant - Navigation Tool Used To 3821. Shunt - Move (A Railway Train) From One
Determine A Ship’S Latitude And Longitude Track To Another; Turn Aside; Divert;
(By Measuring The Altitudes Of Stars) Sidetrack
3795. Shack - Crude Cabin 3822. Shyster - Lawyer Using Questionable
3796. Shackle - Chain; Fetter; Confine With Methods; Unscrupulous Practioner
Shackles 3823. Sibling - Brother Or Sister
3797. Shade - Slight Difference In Degree; Nuance; 3824. Sibyl - Woman Prophet (In The Ancient
Degree Of Color World)
3798. Sham - Pretend; Feign 3825. Sibylline - Prophetic; Oracular
3799. Shambles - (Place Or Scene Of) Complete 3826. Sidereal - Relating To Stars
Disorder Or Ruin; Wreck; Mess 3827. Sidetrack - Switch (A Railroad Car) To A
3800. Shangri-La - Imaginary Remote Paradise On Siding; Divert From A Main Issue
Earth 3828. Sift - Put Through A Sieve To Separate Fine
3801. Shard - Fragment Generally Of Broken From Coarse Particles; Sort Or Examine
Pottery (Glass, Clay Bowl, Or Cup) Carefully

122
3829. Significance - Importance; Meaning 3858. Slake - Satisfy (Thirst); Quench; Sate
3830. Significant - Expressing A Meaning; 3859. Slander - Defamation; Utterance Of False
Important And Malicious Statements
3831. Signify - Denote 3860. Slap - Hit Quickly With The Flat Part Of The
3832. Silt - Sediment Deposited By Running Water Hand
(At The Entrance To A Harbor Or By A Bend 3861. Slapdash - Hasty And Careless; Haphazard;
In A River) Sloppy(Carelessly Done)
3833. Simian - Monkeylike 3862. Slaughter - Killing Of Animals For Food;
3834. Simile - Comparison Of One Thing With Massacre
Another, Using The Word Like Or As 3863. Slavish - Of Or Like A Slave; Servile;
3835. Simper - Smirk; Smile In A Silly Way; Smile Showing No Originality; Copied Very Closely
Affectedly 3864. Sleazy - Shabby And Dirty; Flimsy;
3836. Simplistic - Oversimplified Insubstantial
3837. Simulate - Feign; Imitate 3865. Sledge - Large Sled Drawn By Work Animals
3838. Sinecure - Well-Paid Position With Little 3866. Sleek - Smooth And Shining (As From Good
Responsibility Health)
3839. Sinew - Tendon; Strong Cord Connecting A 3867. Sleeper - One That Achieves Unexpected
Muscle To A Bone Success; Something Originally Of Little
3840. Sinewy - (Of Meat) Tough; Strong And Firm; Value Or Importance
Muscular 3868. Sleigh - Large Vehicle Drawn By A Horse
3841. Singular - Being Only One; Individual; Over Snow Or Ice
Unique; Extraordinary; Odd 3869. Sleight - Dexterity
3842. Sinister - Evil; Ominous 3870. Sleight - Of Hand Legerdemain; Quickness
3843. Sinuous - Twisting; Winding; Bending In And Of The Hands In Doing Tricks
Out; Not Morally Honest 3871. Slew - Large Quantity Or Number
3844. Siren - Apparatus For Making Sounds; 3872. Slick - Make Smooth Or Glossy
Womanlike Creature 3873. Slight - Insult To One’S Dignity; Snub
3845. Skeptic - Sceptic; Doubter; Person Who 3874. Slink - Move Furtively
Suspends Judgment Until He Has Examined 3875. Slinky - Stealthy; Furtive; Sneaky (As In
The Evidence Supporting A Point Of View Ambush)
3846. Skiff - Small Light Sailboat Or Rowboat 3876. Slipshod - Slovenly; Careless; Sloppy;
3847. Skim - Read Or Glance Through Quickly; Untidy; Shabby
Touch Lightly In Passing; Brush; Remove 3877. Slither - Slip Or Slide
From The Surface Of A Liquid 3878. Sloth - Slow Moving Tree-Dwelling Mammal;
3848. Skimp - Provide Or Use Scantily; Live Very Laziness
Economically 3879. Slothful - Lazy; Indolent
3849. Skimpy - Inadequate In Amount; Scanty 3880. Slough - (Of A Snake) Shed Or Cast Off
3850. Skinflint - Miser; Stingy Person (Dead Outer Skin)
3851. Skirmish - Minor Fight; Minor Battle In War 3881. Sloven - One Who Is Habitually Untidy Or
3852. Skittish - Inconstant; Capricious; Frivolous; Careless
Not Serious 3882. Slovenly - Untidy; Careless In Work Habits;
3853. Skulk - Move Furtively And Secretly Slipshod
3854. Skullduggery - Dishonest Behavior Or Action 3883. Sluggard - Lazy Person
3855. Slack - Moving Slowly; Sluggish; Inactive; 3884. Sluggish - Lazy; Slow; Inactive; Lethargic
(Of A Rope) Loose; Negligent; Lax 3885. Sluice - Artificial Channel For Directing Or
3856. Slacken - Slow Up; Loosen; Make Or Controlling The Flow Of Water (With A Gate
Become Slack To Regulate The Flow)
3857. Slag - Glassy Residue From Smelting Metal; 3886. Slur - Pronounce Indistinctly; Speak
Dross; Waste Matter Indistinctly; Mumble

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
123
3887. Sly - Clever In Deceiving; Secretive; Not 3912. Solicit - Entreat; Request Earnestly; Seek To
Telling One’S Intentions Obtain
3888. Smart - Intelligent; Quick And Energetic; 3913. Solicitor - Lawyer In The Lower Court Of
Fashionable Law
3889. Smattering - Slight Knowledge; Small 3914. Solicitous - Anxious; Worried; Concerned;
Scattered Number Or Amount Eager
3890. Smear - Spread Or Cover With A Sticky 3915. Soliloquy - Long Speech By One Person
Substance 3916. Soliloquy - Talking To Oneself (Esp. In A
3891. Smelt - Melt (Ore) For Separating And Play)
Removing The Metal; Melt Or Blend Ores 3917. Solitary - Existing Or Living Alone
Changing Their Chemical Composition 3918. Solitude - State Of Being Alone; Seclusion
3892. Smirk - Conceited Smile; Offensively Self- 3919. Solstice - Point Or Time At Which The Sun Is
Satisfied Smile (Often At Someone Else’S Farthest From The Equator
Misfortune) 3920. Soluble - Able To Be Dissolved In A Liquid;
3893. Smolder - Burn Slowly Without Flame; Be Able To Be Worked Out Or Solved
Liable To Break Out At Any Moment; Exist In 3921. Solvent - Substance That Dissolves Another
A Suppressed State 3922. Somatic - Pertaining To The Body; Bodily;
3894. Smother - Kill From Lack Of Air; Suppress; Physical
Cover Thickly 3923. Somber - Dark; Gloomy; Melancholy;
3895. Smudge - Dirty Mark With Unclear Edges Depressing
Made By Rubbing 3924. Somnambulist - Sleepwalker
3896. Smug - Self-Satisfied; Complacent 3925. Somnolent - Half Asleep; Drowsy
3897. Sneak - Move, Give, Or Take In A Quiet, 3926. Sonic - Of Sound Or Its Speed In Air
Stealthy Way 3927. Sonnet - 14-Line Poetic Verse Form With A
3898. Snicker - Half-Stifled(Suppressed) Laugh Fixed Rhyme Pattern
3899. Snip - Short Quick Cut With Scissors 3928. Sonorous - Resonant; Producing A Full Deep
3900. Snivel - Complain Or Whine Tearfully; Run At Sound; Producing Sound
The Nose; Snuffle 3929. Soothsayer - One Who Foretells The Future
3901. Snub - Ignore Or Behave Coldly Toward 3930. Sophism - Plausible But Fallacious
3902. Snuffle - Sniffle; Sniff Repeatedly (In Order Argument
To Keep Liquid From Running Out Of The 3931. Sophist - Teacher Of Philosophy; Quibbler;
Nose) Employer Of Fallacious Reasoning
3903. Soar - Rise Or Fly High In The Air 3932. Sophisticated - Worldly Wise And Urbane;
3904. Sober - Serious; Solemn; Not Drunken; Refined; Complex
Abstemious Or Temperate 3933. Sophistry - Seemingly Plausible But
3905. Sobriety - Moderation (Especially Regarding Fallacious Reasoning; Sophism
Indulgence In Alcohol); Seriousness 3934. Sophomoric - Immature; Half-Baked; Like A
3906. Sodden - Thoroughly Soaked; Dull Or Stupid Sophomore
As If From Drink 3935. Soporific - Sleep-Causing; Marked By
3907. Sojourn - Temporary Stay Sleepiness; Drowsy
3908. Solace - Comfort In Sorrow Or Trouble; 3936. Sordid - Filthy; Foul; Base; Vile
Consolation 3937. Sound - In Good Condition; Showing Good
3909. Solder - Repair Or Make Whole By Using A Judgment Or Good Sense; Thorough;
Metal Alloy Complete
3910. Solecism - Nonstandard Grammatical 3938. Sour - Having A Sharp Or Acid Taste; Acid;
Construction; Construction That Is Tart; Bad-Tempered
Flagrantly Incorrect Grammatically 3939. Sovereign - Ruler In A Monarchy
3911. Solemnity - Seriousness; Gravity

124
3940. Sovereignty - Complete Independence And Sew You To Your Sheet For Let Me Show
Self-Government (Of A Country); Supremacy You To Your Seat.
Of Authority; Power To Govern 3967. Sporadic - Occurring Irregularly;
3941. Sow - Plant Or Scatter Seed Intermittent
3942. Spangle - Small Shiny Metallic Piece Sewn 3968. Sportive - Playful; Frolicsome; Merry
To Clothing For Ornamentation 3969. Sprout - Begin To Grow; Give Off Shoots Or
3943. Spare - Give; Use; Refrain From Harming; Buds
Save From Experiencing; Exempt 3970. Spruce - Neat And Trim In Appearance;
3944. Sparse - Not Thick; Thinly Scattered; Smart
Scanty 3971. Spry - (Esp. Of Older People) Vigorously
3945. Spartan - Without Attention To Comfort; Active; Nimble
Lacking Luxury And Comfort; Sternly 3972. Spurious - False; Counterfeit; Forged;
Disciplined Illogical
3946. Spasm - Sudden Involuntary Muscular 3973. Spurn - Reject Disdainfully; Scorn
Contraction 3974. Squabble - Minor Quarrel; Bickering
3947. Spasmodic - Fitful; Periodic; Of Or Like A 3975. Squalid - Dirty; Sordid; Morally Repulsive
Spasm 3976. Squalor - Condition Of Being Squalid; Filth;
3948. Spat - Squabble; Minor Dispute; Minor Degradation; Dirty Neglected State
Quarrel 3977. Squander - Waste; Spend Foolishly
3949. Spate - Sudden Flood Or Rush 3978. Squash - Crush; Quash; Suppress
3950. Spatial - Relating To Space 3979. Squat - Short And Thick; Stocky
3951. Spatula - Broad-Bladed Instrument Used For 3980. Squeamish - Easily Shocked Or Sickened By
Spreading Or Mixing Unpleasant Things; Fastidious
3952. Spawn - Lay Eggs (In Large Numbers); 3981. Squelch - Produce A Splashing Sound
Produce Offspring (In Large Numbers) (When Stepping Through Mud); Crush;
3953. Specious - Seemingly Reasonable But Squash
Incorrect; Misleading (Often Intentionally) 3982. Staccato - Played In An Abrupt Manner;
3954. Speck - Small Piece Or Mark Marked By Abrupt Sharp Sound
3955. Specter - Ghost; Phantom 3983. Stagnant - (Of Water) Not Flowing (Often
3956. Spectral - Ghostly Bad-Smelling); Motionless; Stale; Not
3957. Spectrum - Colored Band Produced When A Developing; Inactive
Beam Of Light Passes Through A Prism 3984. Staid - Serious And Sedate; Sober
3958. Speechless - Unable For The Moment To 3985. Stalemate - Deadlock; Situation In Which
Speak (Because Of Strong Feeling) Further Action Is Blocked
3959. Spendthrift - Someone Who Wastes Money 3986. Stalwart - Physically Strong; Brawny;
3960. Sphinx-Like - Enigmatic; Mysterious Steadfast; Strong In Mind Or Determination
3961. Spin - Rotate Swiftly; Make (Thread) By 3987. Stamina - Power Of Endurance; Strength;
Twisting (Cotton, Wool, Etc.) Staying Power
3962. Splice - Join Together End To End To Make 3988. Stammer - Speak With Involuntarily Pauses
One Continuous Length; Fasten Together; Or Repetitions
Unite 3989. Stamp - Step On Heavily (So As To Crush Or
3963. Spoilsport - One Who Spoils The Pleasure Of Extinguish); Put An End To; Imprint Or
Others Impress With A Mark, Design
3964. Spontaneity - Lack Of Premeditation; 3990. Stampede - Sudden Frenzied Rush (Of
Naturalness; Freedom From Constraint Panic-Stricken Animals Or People)
3965. Spoof - Parody 3991. Stanch - Stop Or Check Flow Of Blood
3966. Spoonerism - Accidental Transposition Of 3992. Standstill - Condition Of No Movement Or
Sounds In Successive Words; Ex. Let Me Activity; Stop

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125
3993. Stanza - Division Of A Poem (Composed Of 4021. Stockade - Wooden Enclosure Or Pen; Fixed
Two Or More Lines) Line Of Posts Used As Defensive Barrier
3994. Start - Move Suddenly Or Involuntarily 4022. Stodgy - Dull; Stuffy; Boringly Conservative
3995. Stately - Formal; Ceremonious; Grand In 4023. Stoic - Stoical; Impassive; Unmoved By Joy
Style Or Size; Majestic Or Grief
3996. Static - Having No Motion; Unchanging; 4024. Stoke - Stir Up A Fire Or Furnace; Feed
Lacking Development Plentifully
3997. Statute - Law Enacted By The Legislature 4025. Stolid - Dull; Impassive; Showing Little
3998. Statutory - Created By Statute Or Emotion When Strong Feelings Are Expected
Legislative Action; Regulated By Statute 4026. Stoop - Bend Forward And Down; Lower Or
3999. Steadfast - Steadily Loyal; Unswerving; Debase Oneself; Fall To A Lower Standard
Steady Of Behavior By Doing Something
4000. Stealth - Action Of Moving Secretly Or 4027. Stout - Rather Fat; Strong In Body; Sturdy;
Unseen; Slyness; Sneakiness; Secretiveness Resolute; Determined; Strong In
4001. Steep - Soak; Saturate Determination
4002. Stellar - Pertaining To The Stars; Of A Star 4028. Straggle - Stray Or Fall Behind (A Main
Performer; Outstanding Group); Spread Out In A Scattered Group
4003. Stem - Stop Or Check (The Flow Of); Ex. 4029. Strangle - Kill By Choking Or Suffocating;
Stem The Bleeding From The Slashed Artery Suppress
4004. Stench - Strong Foul Odor; Reek; Stink 4030. Stratagem - Deceptive Scheme; Clever Trick
4005. Stentor - A Loud Herald In The Iliad 4031. Stratified - Divided Into Classes; Arranged
4006. Stentorian - (Of The Voice) Extremely Loud Into Strata
4007. Stereotype - One Regarded As Embodying A 4032. Stratum - Layer Of Earth’S Surface; Layer
Set Image Or Type; Fixed And Unvarying Of Society
Representation; Standardized Mental 4033. Strew - Spread Randomly; Sprinkle; Scatter
Picture Often Reflecting Prejudice 4034. Striated - Marked With Parallel Bands;
4008. Sterile - Incapable Of Producing Young; Free Striped; Grooved
From Microorganism 4035. Stricture - Severe And Adverse Criticism;
4009. Stickler - Perfectionist; Person Who Insists Critical Comments; Limit Or Restriction
Things Be Exactly Right 4036. Strident - Loud And Harsh; Insistent
4010. Stifle - Suppress; Extinguish; Inhibit; 4037. Stringent - (Of Rules) Binding; Rigid; Marked
Smother Or Suffocate By Scarcity Of Money
4011. Stigma - Token Of Disgrace; Brand 4038. Strut - Supporting Bar
4012. Stigmatize - Mark With A Stigma; 4039. Studied - Carefully Contrived; Calculated;
Characterize As Disgraceful Unspontaneous; Deliberate; Thoughtful
4013. Stilted - Bombastic; Stiffly Pompous 4040. Studious - Given To Diligent Study
4014. Stingy - Niggardly 4041. Stultify - Make Stupid In Mind; Cause To
4015. Stink - Stench Appear Or Become Stupid Or Inconsistent;
4016. Stint - Supply; Allotted Amount Of Work; Suppress
Assigned Portion Of Work; Limitation 4042. Stumble - Trip And Almost Fall; Proceed
4017. Stipend - Pay For Services Unsteadily; Act Falteringly
4018. Stipple - Paint Or Draw With Dots Or Short 4043. Stump - Base Of A Tree Trunk Left After The
Strokes Rest Has Been Cut Down
4019. Stipulate - State As A Necessary Condition 4044. Stun - Make Unconscious Or Numb As By A
(Of An Agreement); Make Express Blow; Amaze; Astound
Conditions; Specify 4045. Stupefy - Stun; Make Numb (As With A
4020. Stock - Standard; Kept Regularly In Stock Drug); Amaze
Or Supply; Typical; Routine; Common 4046. Stupor - State Of Being Stupefied; State Of
Apathy; Daze; Lack Of Awareness

126
4047. Sturdy - Strong And Firm (In The Body) 4071. Subsist - Exist; Maintain Life (At A Meager
4048. Stygian - Unpleasantly Dark; Gloomy; Level)
Hellish; Deathly 4072. Subsistence - Existence; Means Of
4049. Stymie - Thwart; Present An Obstacle; Subsisting; Means Of Support; Livelihood
Stump 4073. Substantial - Of Substance; Material; Solid;
4050. Styx - The Chief River In The Subterranean Essential Or Fundamental; Ample;
Land Of The Dead Considerable
4051. Suave - Smooth And Courteous 4074. Substantiate - Support (A Claim) With
4052. Suavity - Urbanity; Polish Evidence; Establish With Evidence; Verify
4053. Subaltern - Subordinate 4075. Substantive - Substantial; Essential;
4054. Subdue - Less Intense; Quieter Pertaining To The Substance; Substantial;
4055. Subjective - Influenced By Personal Considerable
Feelings; Occurring Or Taking Place Within 4076. Subsume - Include (As A Member Of A
The Mind; Unreal Group); Encompass
4056. Subjugate - Conquer; Bring Under Control 4077. Subterfuge - Stratagem(Deceptive
4057. Sublimate - Refine; Purify; Replace (Natural Scheme); Pretense; Evasion
Urges) With Socially Acceptable Activities; 4078. Subtle - Delicate; So Slight As To Be
Change Between A Solid State And A Difficult To Detect; Able To Make Fine
Gaseous State Distinctions; Clever
4058. Sublime - Causing Deep Feelings Of 4079. Subtlety - Perceptiveness; Ingenuity;
Wonder, Joy, Respect, Etc.; Exalted; Noble Delicacy
And Uplifting; Utter 4080. Subversive - Tending To Overthrow Or Ruin
4059. Subliminal - Below The Threshold Of 4081. Subvert - Overthrow Completely (An
Conscious Perception Established System); Destroy Completely
4060. Submerge - Place Under Water; Dip; Go 4082. Succor - Assist (Someone In Difficulty); Aid;
Under Water; Cover Completely (As With Comfort
Water) 4083. Succulent - Juicy; Full Of Juice Or Sap; Full
4061. Submissive - Willing To Obey Orders; Of Richness
Yielding; Timid 4084. Succumb - Yield (To Something
4062. Subordinate - Occupying A Lower Rank; Overwhelming); Give In; Die
Inferior; Submissive 4085. Suckle - Give Or Take Milk At The Breast Or
4063. Suborn - Persuade To Act Unlawfully Udder
(Especially To Commit Perjury) 4086. Suffocate - Die Or Kill From Lack Of Air;
4064. Subpoena - Writ(Written Command Issued Suppress
By A Court) Summoning A Witness To 4087. Suffragist - Advocate Of The Extension Of
Appear In Court Voting Rights (For Women)
4065. Subsequent - Following In Time Or Order; 4088. Suffuse - Spread Through Or Over (With A
Later Color Or Liquid); Charge
4066. Subservient - Behaving Like A Slave; Servile; 4089. Suitor - Man Who Is Courting A Woman
Obsequious; Subordinate 4090. Sullen - Silently Showing Ill Humor Or
4067. Subside - Sink To A Lower Level; Settle Resentment; Dark; Gloomy
Down; Sink To The Bottom (As A Sediment); 4091. Sully - Defile; Soil; Tarnish; Ex. Sully One’S
Descend; Grow Quiet Hands In Menial Labor
4068. Subsidiary - Serving To Assist; Subordinate; 4092. Sultry - (Of Weather) Hot; Sweltering;
Secondary; Of A Subsidy Sensual; Voluptuous
4069. Subsidize - Assist With A Subsidy 4093. Summation - Act Of Finding The Total;
4070. Subsidy - Direct Financial Aid By Summing-Up; Summary
Government 4094. Sumptuous - Grand Suggesting Great
Expense; Lavish; Rich

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
127
4095. Sunder - Separate; Part 4124. Susceptible - Impressionable; Easily

4096. Sundries - Small Miscellaneous Items Influenced; Sensitive; Having Little
4097. Sundry - Miscellaneous; Various; Several Resistance As To A Disease; Likely To
4098. Superannuated - Retired Or Disqualified Suffer; Receptive To
Because Of Age; Outmoded; Obsolete 4125. Suspend - Cause To Stop For A Period;
4099. Supercilious - Haughty; Arrogant; Interrupt; Hold In Abeyance; Defer; Hang
Condescending; Patronizing From Above
4100. Supererogatory - Superfluous; More Than 4126. Suspense - State Of Being Undecided;
Needed Or Demanded Anxiety Or Apprehension Resulting From
4101. Superficial - Of The Surface; Not Deep; Uncertainty
Shallow; Not Thorough; Trivial 4127. Sustain - Suffer (Harm Or Loss);
4102. Superfluous - Excessive; Overabundant; Experience; Support; Prop; Maintain; Keep In
Unnecessary Existence
4103. Superimpose - Place Over Something Else 4128. Sustenance - Sustaining; Means Of
4104. Supernumerary - Person Or Thing Excess Of Livelihood, Support, Food, Nourishment;
What Is Necessary; Extra Food
4105. Supersede - Replace; Cause To Be Set 4129. Suture - Stitches Sewn To Hold The Cut
Aside; Make Obsolete Edges Of A Wound Or Incision
4106. Supine - Lying On Back; Passive; Inactive 4130. Swagger - Walk Or Behave With An Over-
4107. Supplant - Take The Place Of Unfairly; Confident Manner
Usurp; Replace 4131. Swamp - Wetland; Marsh
4108. Supple - Flexible; Limber; Pliant 4132. Swarm - Large Group Of Insects Moving In A
4109. Suppliant - Entreating; Beseeching Mass; Crowd Of People Or Animals
4110. Supplicant - One Who Supplicates 4133. Swarthy - (Of A Skin Or Complexion) Dark;
4111. Supplicate - Petition Humbly; Pray To Grant Dusky
A Favor 4134. Swathe - Swath; Wrap Around; Bandage
4112. Supposition - Assumption; Hypothesis; 4135. Sway - Swing From Side To Side; Influence
Surmise (Someone) To Change One’S Opinion
4113. Supposititious - Assumed; Counterfeit; 4136. Swear - Vow; Promise; Use Profane Oaths;
Hypothetical Use Offensive Words
4114. Suppress - Put An End To Forcibly; Subdue; 4137. Swear-Word - Word Considered Offensive
Stifle; Overwhelm; Inhibit The Expression Of; 4138. Swell - Long Wave Of Water That Moves
Check Continuously Without Breaking
4115. Surfeit - Satiate; Feed Or Supply To Excess; 4139. Swelter - (Of A Person) Suffer From
Stuff; Indulge To Excess In Anything Oppressive Heat; Be Oppressed By Heat
4116. Surge - Powerful Movement Of Or Like A 4140. Swerve - Deviate; Turn Aside Sharply From
Wave A Straight Course
4117. Surly - Bad-Tempered; Rude; Cross 4141. Swill - Drink Greedily
4118. Surmise - Guess 4142. Swindler - Cheater
4119. Surmount - Overcome 4143. Swipe - Hit With A Sweeping Motion
4120. Surpass - Exceed 4144. Sybaris - An Ancient Greek City In Italy
4121. Surreptitious - Done Secretly; Secret; 4145. Sybarite - Lover Of Luxury; Person Devoted
Furtive; Sneaky; Hidden To Pleasure And Luxury
4122. Surrogate - Substitute; Person Or Thing 4146. Sycophant - Servile Flatterer; Bootlicker;
Used In Place Of Another Yes Man
4123. Surveillance - Close Observation Of A 4147. Syllogism - Logical Formula Consisting Of A
Person (Esp. One Under Suspicion); Major Premise, A Minor Premise And A
Watching; Guarding Conclusion; Deceptive Or Specious
Argument

128
4148. Sylvan - Pertaining To The Woods Or The 4168. Tanner - Person Who Turns Animal Hides
Country Into Leather
4149. Symbiosis - Interdependent Relationship 4169. Tantalize - Tease; Excite By Exposing
(Between Groups, Species) Often Mutually Something Desirable While Keeping It Out Of
Beneficial Reach; Torture With Disappointment
4150. Symmetry - Arrangement Of Parts So That 4170. Tantamount - Equivalent In Effect Or Value
Balance Is Obtained; Congruity 4171. Tantrum - Fit Of Bad Temper; Fit Of
4151. Synchronous - Similarly Timed; Petulance; Caprice
Simultaneous With; Occurring At The Same 4172. Taper - Very Thin Candle; Gradual Decrease
Time In The Width Of A Long Object
4152. Synoptic - Providing A General Overview; 4173. Tarantula - Venomous Spider
Summary 4174. Tardy - Slow; Sluggish; Not On Time; Late
4153. Synthesis - Combining Parts Or Separate 4175. Tarnish - Make Or Become Dull Or
Things Into A Whole; The Whole So Formed Discolored
4154. Synthetic - Not Natural; Artificial; Resulting 4176. Tarry - Linger; Delay In Starting Or Going;
From Synthesis Dawdle
4177. Tart - Sharp To The Taste; Acid-Tasting;
Caustic; Sarcastic
4178. Tatter - Torn Piece Of Cloth
4179. Tattered - (Of Clothes) Old And Torn; (Of A
T Person) Dressed In Old Torn Clothes
4180. Taunt - Deride Or Provoke; Challenge In
4155. Tablet - Small Round Piece Of Medicine; Derision
Flat Piece Of Stone Or Metal Bearing An 4181. Taut - Tight Strained; Tense; Ready
Inscription 4182. Tautological - Needlessly Repetitious
4156. Tacit - Understood (Without Actually Being 4183. Tautology - Needless Repetition Of The
Expressed); Not Put Into Words Same Sense
4157. Taciturn - Habitually Silent; Talking Little 4184. Tawdry - Cheap And Gaudy
4158. Tact - Skill Or Sensitivity In Dealing With 4185. Tawny - Brownish Yellow
People Without Causing Offence 4186. Taxonomist - Specialist In Classifying
4159. Tactful - Careful No To Cause Offence (Animals, Etc.)
4160. Tactile - Pertaining To The Organs Or Sense 4187. Tedium - Boredom; Weariness
Of Touch 4188. Teetotalism - Practice Of Abstaining Totally
4161. Taint - Contaminate; Cause To Lose Purity; From Alcoholic Drinks
Modify With A Trace Of Something Bad 4189. Temerity - Boldness; Nerve; Rashness
4162. Takeoff - Burlesque; Act Of Leaving The 4190. Temper - Moderate; Make Less Severe;
Ground Tone Down Or Restrain; Toughen (Steel) As
4163. Talisman - Charm; Object Believed To Give By Alternate Heating And Cooling
Supernatural Powers To Or Protect Its 4191. Temperament - Characteristic Frame Of
Bearer Mind; Disposition; Emotional Excess
4164. Talon - Claw Of Bird 4192. Temperamental - Of Temperament; Having
4165. Tan - Convert (Hide) Into Leather; Make Frequent Changes Of Temper
Brown By Exposure To The Sun 4193. Temperance - Moderation And Self-
4166. Tangential - Only Slightly Connected; Not Restraint; Abstinence Of Alcoholic Drinks
Central; Peripheral; Digressing; Showing 4194. Temperate - Moderate; Restrained; Self-
Divergence Controlled; Moderate In Respect To
4167. Tangible - Able To Be Touched; Real; Temperature
Concrete; Palpable; Possible To Realize Or 4195. Tempest - Violent Storm
Understand

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
129
4196. Tempestuous - Stormy; Violent; 4224. Testy - Irritable; Impatient And Bad-
Impassioned Tempered; Short-Tempered
4197. Tempo - Speed Of Music 4225. Tether - Tie (An Animal) With A Rope Or
4198. Temporal - Of Time; Not Lasting Forever; Tether
Limited By Time; Temporary; Secular; 4226. Thematic - Of A Theme; Relating To A
Worldly Unifying Motif Or Idea
4199. Temporize - Gain Time As By Postponing An 4227. Theocracy - Government Run By Religious
Action; Avoid Committing Oneself Leaders
4200. Tenacious - Holding Fast (As To A Belief); 4228. Theoretical - Based On Theory; Not
Persistent Practical Or Applied; Hypothetical
4201. Tenacity - Firmness; Persistence 4229. Therapeutic - Curative
4202. Tenancy - Possession Of Land Or Building 4230. Thermal - Pertaining To Heat; Producing
By Rent; Period Of A Tenant’S Occupancy Heat; Warm
4203. Tenant - One That Pays Rent To Use 4231. Thesis - Opinion Put Forward And
Property Owned By Another Supported By Reasoned Arguments
4204. Tend - Have A Tendency; Take Care Of; 4232. Thespian - Pertaining To Drama
Minister; Serve At; Apply One’S Attention; 4233. Thrall - Slave; Bondage; Slavery
Attend 4234. Thrash - Beat With A Whip Or Flail; Defeat
4205. Tendentious - Promoting A Particular Point Utterly; Talk About Thoroughly In Order To
Of View; Biased; Having An Aim; Designed Find The Answer
To Further A Cause 4235. Threadbare - Worn Through Till The Threads
4206. Tender - Offer Formally; Extend Show; Shabby And Poor; Hackneyed
4207. Tender - Young And Vulnerable; Sensitive 4236. Threat - Sign Or Warning (Of Coming
To The Touch; Sore; Soft; Delicate Danger)
4208. Tenet - Doctrine; Dogma 4237. Thresh - Beat (Cereal Plants) With A
4209. Tensile - Capable Of Being Stretched; Of Machine Or Flail To Separate The Grains
Tension From The Straw
4210. Tension - Stretching; Condition Of Being 4238. Thrifty - Careful About Money; Economical
Stretched; Mental Strain; Strained 4239. Thrive - Prosper; Flourish
Relationship Between Groups 4240. Throb - (Of A Heart Or Machine) Beat
4211. Tentative - Not Fully Worked Out Or Rapidly Or Violently
Developed; Provisional; Experimental 4241. Throes - Violent Anguish
4212. Tenuous - Thin; Slim; Rare 4242. Throng - Crowd (Of People Or Things)
4213. Tenure - Holding Of An Office Or Real 4243. Throttle - Strangle; Regulate The Speed Of
Estate; Time During Which Such An Office Is With A Throttle
Held 4244. Thwart - Block Or Hinder; Baffle; Frustrate
4214. Tepid - Lukewarm; Slightly Warm; Half- 4245. Tickle - Touch (The Body) Lightly So As To
Hearted; Not Eager Cause Laughter; Please
4215. Terminal - Part That Forms The End; 4246. Tidy - In Good Order
Railroad Or Bus Station 4247. Tightwad - Miser; Excessively Frugal
4216. Termination - End Person
4217. Terminology - Terms Used In A Science Or 4248. Tiller - Handle Used To Move Boat’S Rudder
Art; Study Of Nomenclature (To Steer)
4218. Terminus - Last Stop Of Railroad; End 4249. Timbre - Quality Of A Musical Tone
4219. Terrestrial - On Or Relating To The Earth Produced By A Musical Instrument
4220. Terse - Concise; Abrupt; Pithy 4250. Timidity - Lack Of Self-Confidence Or
4221. Tertiary - Third In Order Or Rank Courage
4222. Tessellated - Mosaic; Inlaid 4251. Timorous - Fearful; Timid; Demonstrating
4223. Testator - Maker Of A Will Fear

130
4252. Tinge - Give A Slight Degree Of A Color Or 4280. Totter - Shake Or Move Unsteadily; Sway As
Quality To If About To Fall
4253. Tint - Slight Degree Of Color 4281. Touch - Cause To Feel Pity Or Sympathy
4254. Tipple - Drink (Alcoholic Beverages) 4282. Touching - Causing A Feeling Of Pity Or
Frequently Sympathy; Pathetic
4255. Tirade - Long Angry Denunciatory Speech; 4283. Touchstone - Stone Used To Test The
Diatribe; Harangue; Extended Scolding; Fineness Of Gold Alloys; Criterion; Standard
Denunciation 4284. Touchy - Oversensitive; Easily Offended;
4256. Titanic - Gigantic Irascible; Delicate
4257. Tithe - Tax Of One-Tenth (Contributed To A 4285. Tout - Promote Or Publicize (One’S Goods
Church) Or Service); Praise Excessively (As A Form
4258. Titillate - Tickle; Excite Pleasantly Of Advertisement)
4259. Title - Name (Of A Book, Film, Etc.); Mark Of 4286. Toxic - Poisonous
Rank; Formal Appellation As Of Rank Or 4287. Tract Propaganda - Pamphlet (Esp. By A
Office Religious Or Political Group); Expanse Of
4260. Titter - Nervous Giggle; Nervous Laugh Land
4261. Titular - Of A Title; In Name Only; Nominal; 4288. Tractable - Docile; Easily Managed
Having The Title Of An Office Without The 4289. Traduce - Expose To Slander
Obligations 4290. Trajectory - Path Taken By A Projectile
4262. Toady - Servile Flatterer; Yes Man; 4291. Tramp - Walk With A Heavy Step; Travel On
Sycophant Foot
4263. Toga - Roman Outer Robe 4292. Trample - Step Heavily With The Feet;
4264. Token - Outward Sign Crush Under The Feet
4265. Toll - Sound (A Large Bell) Slowly At Regular 4293. Trance - Hypnotic State; Ecstatic State;
Intervals Detachment From One’S Physical
4266. Tome - Large Volume; Book Surrounding
4267. Tonsure - Shaving Of The Head Especially 4294. Tranquility - Calmness; Peace
By Person Entering Religious Orders 4295. Transcend - Go Beyond; Exceed; Surpass
4268. Topography - Physical Features Of A 4296. Transcendent - Exceeding Ordinary Limits;
Region (Such As The Shape And Height) Superior; Surpassing
4269. Topple - Become Unsteady And Fall Down 4297. Transcendental - Going Beyond Common
4270. Torpedo - Underwater Explosive Apparatus Thought Or Ideas; Impossible To
4271. Torpid - Lethargic; Lazy; Inactive; (Of An Understand By Practical Experiences
Animal) Dormant; Hibernating 4298. Transcribe - Copy; Write A Copy Of
4272. Torpor - Lethargy; Sluggishness; Dormancy 4299. Transgress - Go Beyond (A Limit); Violate;
4273. Torque - Twisting Force; Force Producing Do Wrong
Rotation 4300. Transgression - Violation Of A Law; Sin
4274. Torrent - Rushing Stream; Flood 4301. Transient - Staying For A Short Time;
4275. Torrid - (Of Weather) Hot Or Scorching; Momentary; Temporary
Passionate 4302. Transition - Going From One State Of
4276. Torso - Trunk Of Statue With Head And Action To Another
Limbs Missing; Human Trunk 4303. Transitory - Transient; Impermanent;
4277. Tortuous - Winding; Full Of Curves Fleeting
4278. Toss - Throw Lightly; Move Or Lift (The 4304. Translucent - Partly Transparent
Head) With A Sudden Motion; Flip (A Coin) 4305. Transmute - Transform; Change; Convert
To Decide Something To Something Different
4279. Totem - Animal, Plant, Or Natural Object 4306. Transparent - Permitting Light To Pass
Serving As A Symbol Of A Clan Or Family; Through Freely; Easily Detected; Obvious;
Representation Of This Clear

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
131
4307. Transpire - (Of A Fact) Become Known; Be 4338. Troth - Pledge Of Good Faith Especially In
Revealed; Happen Betrothal; Betrothal
4308. Transport - Strong Emotion; Rapture 4339. Trough - Long Narrow Container For
4309. Transpose - Reverse The Order Or Position Feeding Farm Animals; Lowest Point (Of A
Of Wave, Business Cycle, Etc.)
4310. Trappings - Outward Decorations; 4340. Truculence - Aggressiveness; Ferocity
Ornaments (As An Outward Sign Of Rank) 4341. Truculent - Aggressive; Pugnacious; Fierce
4311. Traumatic - (Of An Experience) Deeply 4342. Truism - Self-Evident Truth
Shocking; Pertaining To An Injury Caused By 4343. Truncate - Cut The Top Off; Shorten
Violence 4344. Trunk - Main Wooden Stem Of A Tree;
4312. Travail - Strenuous Work; Toil; Painful Human Body Excluding The Head And
Labor; Labor Of Childbirth Limbs; Torso
4313. Traverse - Go Through Or Across 4345. Tryst - Meeting Arranged By Lovers;
4314. Travesty - Copy Or Example Of Something Arrangement Between Lovers To Meet
That Completely Misrepresents The True 4346. Tumid - (Of A Part Of The Body) Swollen;
Nature Of The Real Thing Distended; Bombastic; Pompous
4315. Tread - Walk; Trample 4347. Tumult - Commotion Of A Great Crowd;
4316. Treasure - Keep As Precious; Cherish Riot; Noise; Uproar
4317. Treatise - Article Treating A Subject 4348. Tumultuous - Noisy And Disorderly
Systematically And Thoroughly 4349. Tundra - Rolling Treeless Plain In Siberia
4318. Trek - Travel; Journey And Arctic North America
4319. Tremor - Trembling; Slight Quiver (As Of The 4350. Turbid - (Of A Liquid) Having The Sediment
Earth Or From Nervous Agitation) Disturbed; Muddy; Thick
4320. Tremulous - Trembling; Wavering 4351. Turbulence - State Of Violent Agitation
4321. Trenchant - Cutting; Incisive; Keen 4352. Turbulent - Violently Agitated Or Disturbed
4322. Trepidation - Fear; Nervous Apprehension 4353. Tureen - Deep Dish For Serving Soup
4323. Tribulation - Suffering; Ordeal; Distress; 4354. Turgid - Swollen; Distended (As From
Trial Liquid)
4324. Tribunal - Court Of Justice 4355. Turmoil - Extreme Confusion; Great
4325. Tribune - Official Of Ancient Rome Elected Commotion And Confusion
By The Plebian To Protect Their Rights 4356. Turncoat - Traitor
4326. Tribute - Tax Levied By A Ruler; Payment 4357. Turpitude - Depravity; Baseness
Made By One Nation To Another In 4358. Tutelage - Guardianship; Training; Function
Acknowledgment Of Submission Of A Tutor
4327. Trickle - Flow In Drops Or In A Thin Stream 4359. Tutelary - Protective; Pertaining To A
4328. Trickster - Person Who Cheats People Guardianship
4329. Trident - Three-Pronged Spear 4360. Tycoon - Wealthy And Powerful
4330. Trifle - Something Of Little Importance Or Businessperson
Value; Small Amount 4361. Typhoon - Tropical Hurricane Or Cyclone
4331. Trifling - Trivial; Unimportant 4362. Tyrannical - Despotic
4332. Trigger - Set Off; Start 4363. Tyrannize - Treat Tyrannically; Oppress
4333. Trilogy - Group Of Three Related Works 4364. Tyranny - Oppression; Cruel Government
(Connected By A Shared Subject But Each 4365. Tyro - Beginner; Novice
Complete In Itself)
4334. Trim - Make Neat Or Tidy By Clipping;
U
Reduce By Removing What Is Unnecessary 4366. Ubiquitous - Being Everywhere;
4335. Trinket - Knickknack; Bauble; Cheap Jewelry Omnipresent
4336. Trite - Hackneyed; Commonplace 4367. Ulcer - Sore Place Appearing On The Skin
4337. Trivia - Trifles; Unimportant Matters Inside Or Outside The Body

132
4368. Ulterior - Intentionally Hidden; Beyond What 4397. Unfaltering - Steadfast; Firm; Not Changing
Is Evident; Situated Beyond; Unstated And 4398. Unfeigned - Genuine; Real
Often Questionable 4399. Unfetter - Liberate; Free From Chains
4369. Ultimate - Final; Not Susceptible To Further 4400. Unfledged - Immature; Not Having The
Analysis; Fundamental Feathers Necessary To Fly
4370. Ultimatum - Last Demand; Last Warning; 4401. Unfrock - Defrock; Strip A Priest Or Minister
Last Statement Of Conditions That Must Be Of Church Authority
Met 4402. Ungainly - (Of Someone) Awkward In
4371. Umbrage - Resentment; Anger; Sense Of Movement; Clumsy; (Of Something)
Injury Or Insult Unwieldy
4372. Unaccountable - Inexplicable; Impossible To 4403. Unguent - Ointment
Account For; Unreasonable Or Mysterious 4404. Uniformity - Sameness; Monotony
4373. Unanimity - Complete Agreement 4405. Unilateral - One-Sided; Involving Or
4374. Unassailable - Not Open To Attack; Affecting Only One Side
Impregnable; Not Subject To Question 4406. Unimpeachable - That Cannot Be
4375. Unassuaged - Unsatisfied; Not Soothed Impeached; Beyond Doubt Or Question;
4376. Unassuming - Modest Blameless And Exemplary
4377. Unbridled - Violent; Uncontrolled 4407. Uninhibited - Unrepressed; Free In Behavior
4378. Uncanny - Strange; Mysterious And Feelings
4379. Unceremonious - Not Done Politely Without 4408. Unintimating - Unfrightening
Due Formalities 4409. Unique - Without An Equal; Single In Kind
4380. Unconscionable - Unscrupulous; Not 4410. Unison - Unity Of Pitch (In Musical
Guided By Conscience; Excessive; Beyond Performance); Complete Accord
Reason 4411. Universal - Characterizing Or Affecting All;
4381. Uncouth - Boorish; Clumsy In Speech Or General; Present Everywhere; Of The
Behavior; Outlandish Universe; Cosmic
4382. Unction - The Act Of Anointing With Oil 4412. Unkempt - Disheveled; Uncared For In
4383. Unctuous - Oily; Bland; Insincerely Suave Appearance; Not Combed
4384. Underhand(Underhanded) - Done Slyly And 4413. Unmitigated - (Of Something Bad) Not
Secretly (Being Dishonest) Moderated; Unrelieved Or Immoderate;
4385. Underlying - Lying Below; Fundamental Without Qualification; Absolute
4386. Undermine - Weaken Gradually; Sap; Dig A 4414. Unobtrusive - Inconspicuous; Not Blatant
Mine Beneath 4415. Unprecedented - Having No Previous
4387. Underscore - Underline; Emphasize Example; Novel; Unparalleled
4388. Understate - State With Less Truth Than 4416. Unprepossessing - Unattractive
Seems Warranted By The Facts 4417. Unravel - Disentangle; Solve
4389. Understatement - Statement Which Is Below 4418. Unregenerate - Making No Attempt To
The Truth Change One’S Bad Practices
4390. Undertaker - Funeral Director; One Whose 4419. Unrequited - Not Requited; Not
Business Is To Arrange Burials Reciprocated
4391. Undulating - Moving With A Wavelike Motion 4420. Unruly - Disobedient; Lawless; Difficult To
4392. Unearth - Dig Up; Discover (Facts) By Control
Careful Searching 4421. Unsavory - Distasteful; Disagreeable;
4393. Unearthly - Not Earthly; Supernatural; Morally Offensive
Weird; Ghostly 4422. Unscathed - Unharmed
4394. Unequivocal - Plain; Clear; Obvious 4423. Unseemly - Unbecoming; Not Proper In
4395. Unerringly - Infallibly Behavior; Indecent
4396. Unexceptionable - Entirely Acceptable; Not 4424. Unsightly - Ugly; Unpleasant To Look At
Offering Any Basis For Criticism 4425. Unsullied - Untarnished

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
133
4426. Untenable - (Of A Position, Esp. In An 4451. Vagrant - Homeless Wanderer

Argument) Indefensible; Not Able To Be 4452. Vain - Full Of Self-Admiration; Conceited;
Maintained Without Result; Unsuccessful
4427. Untoward - Unexpected And Adverse; 4453. Vainglorious - Boastful; Excessively
Unfortunate Or Unlucky Conceited
4428. Unwarranted - Unjustified; Having No 4454. Valediction - Saying Farewell; Expression Of
Justification; Groundless Leave-Taking
4429. Unwieldy - Awkward (To Carry Or Move); 4455. Valedictory - Pertaining To Farewell; N
Cumbersome; Unmanageable Farewell Address (Esp. At Graduation
4430. Unwitting - Not Knowing; Unaware; Exercises)
Unintentional 4456. Valiant - Possessing Valor; Brave
4431. Unwonted - Unaccustomed; Unusual 4457. Valid - Logically Convincing; Sound; Legally
4432. Upbraid - Reprimand; Severely Scold Acceptable; Effective
4433. Upright - (Sitting Or Standing) Straight Up; 4458. Validate - Make Valid; Confirm; Ratify
Honest; Moral 4459. Valor - Bravery
4434. Uproar - Noisy Confusion 4460. Vampire - Ghostly Being That Sucks The
4435. Uproarious - Marked By Commotion Or Blood Of The Living
Uproar; Very Noisy (Esp. With Laughter); 4461. Vanguard - Forerunners; Foremost Position
Hilarious Of An Army; Advance Forces
4436. Upshot - Outcome; Final Result 4462. Vantage - Position Giving An Advantage
4437. Urbane - Suave; Refined In Manner; Elegant (Such As A Strategic Point)
4438. Urchin - Mischievous Child (Usually A Boy) 4463. Vapid - Lacking Liveliness; Dull And
4439. Urge - Drive Or Force Forward (By Causing Unimaginative; Insipid And Flavorless
Impulses); Drive To Take Action; Impel; 4464. Vaporize - Turn Into Vapor (Steam, Gas, Fog,
Entreat Earnestly Etc.)
4440. Urgent - Compelling Immediate Action; 4465. Variegate - Change The Appearance Of (By
Pressing; Persistent; Importunate Marking With Different Colors)
4441. Ursine - Bear Like; Pertaining To A Bear 4466. Variegated - (Esp. Of A Flower Or Leaf)
4442. Usage - Act Or Manner Of Using; Accepted Many-Colored
Practice; Way In Which Words Are Actually 4467. Varnish - Paint Used To Coat A Surface With
Used A Glossy Film
4443. Usurp - Seize Another’S Power Or Rank 4468. Vassal - In Feudalism, One Who Held Land
(Without Legal Authority); Supplant; Of A Superior Lord
Appropriate 4469. Vaunted - Boasted; Bragged; Highly
4444. Usury - Lending Money At Illegal High Rates Publicized; V. Vaunt Boast; Brag
Of Interest 4470. Veer - Change In Direction; Swerve
4445. Utopia - Ideal Place, State, Or Society 4471. Vegetate - Live In A Monotonous Way
4446. Uxorious - Excessively Submissive Or (Without Interests Or Activity)
Devoted To One’S Wife 4472. Vehement - Forceful; Intensely Emotional;
V With Marked Vigor; Strong
4473. Velocity - Speed
4447. Vacillate - Waver (In Opinion); Fluctuate; 4474. Venal - Capable Of Being Bribed; Corrupt
Sway To And Fro 4475. Vendetta - Blood Feud (Esp. Between Two
4448. Vacuous - Empty; Lacking In Ideas; Inane; Families)
Stupid; Ex. Vacuous Expression 4476. Vendor - Seller
4449. Vagabond - Wanderer (Without A 4477. Veneer - Thin Surface Layer (Of Good
Permanent Home); Tramp Quality Wood, Glued To A Base Of Inferior
4450. Vagary - Capricious Happening; Caprice; Material)
Whim

134
4478. Venerable - Deserving High Respect; 4501. Veritable - Being Truly So; Real Or Genuine;
Commanding Respect Actual; Not False Or Imaginary
4479. Venerate - Revere; Treat With Great Respect 4502. Verity - Quality Of Being True; Lasting Truth
4480. Venial - (Of A Fault Or Sin) Forgivable; Or Principle; Ex. The Verity Of His Testimony
Trivial 4503. Vernacular - Living Language (As
4481. Venison - Meat Of A Deer Compared To The Official Language);
4482. Venom - Poison (Of An Animal); Hatred; Ex. Language Spoken In A Country Or Region
Remarks Full Of Venom 4504. Vernal - Pertaining To Spring
4483. Vent - Release Or Discharge Through A 4505. Versatile - Having Many Talents; Capable Of
Vent; Express (Esp. Unfairly); Utter; Ex. He Working In Many Fields; Having Many Uses
Vented His Wrath On His Family. Or Functions; N. Versatility
4484. Ventilate - Admit Fresh Air Into To Replace 4506. Vertebrate - Having A Backbone Or Spinal
Stale Air Column; N Group Of Animals Having A
4485. Ventral - Abdominal Segmented Spinal Column
4486. Ventriloquist - Someone Who Can Make His 4507. Vertex - Summit; Highest Point; Pl. Vertices
Or Her Voice Seem To Come From Another 4508. Vertigo - Severe Dizziness; Giddiness
Person Or Thing 4509. Verve - Enthusiasm (As In Artistic
4487. Venture - Risk; Expose To Risk; Dare; Performance Or Composition); Liveliness;
Undertake A Risk Vigor
4488. Venturesome - (Of A Person) Bold; 4510. Vestige - Trace; Remains; Ex. Vestiges Of
Adventurous; Daring; (Of An Action) Risky Some Ancient Religion
4489. Venue - Location; Place (Of A Crime, Trial, 4511. Veto - Vested Power To Reject A Bill;
Gathering) Exercise Of This Right; V Prevent Or Forbid
4490. Veracious - (Of A Person) Truthful By Exercising The Power Of Veto
4491. Veracity - Truthfulness; Adherence To The 4512. Vex - Annoy; Distress
Truth 4513. Viable - Capable Of Maintaining Life;
4492. Verbalize - Put Into Words; Adj. Verbal Of Feasible; Practical Or Workable; Ex. Viable
Words; Spoken Rather Than Written; Oral; Of Scheme
A Verb 4514. Viand - Food
4493. Verbatim - Word For Word; In The Same 4515. Vibrant - Full Of Vigor Or Energy; Vibrating
Words; Repeating The Actual Words Exactly 4516. Vicar - Parish Priest; Representative
4494. Verbiage - Pompous Array Of Words; Too 4517. Vicarious - Experienced As If One Were
Many Unnecessary Words; Wordiness Taking Part In The Experience Of Another;
4495. Verbose - Wordy; N. Verbosity Done By A Deputy For Other People
4496. Verdant - Green; Covered With Green Plants 4518. Vicissitude - Change (Esp. From Good To
Or Grass; Lush In Vegetation; Ex. Verdant Bad); Change Of Fortune
Meadows 4519. Victuals - Food; Provisions
4497. Verdigris - Green Coating Or Patina On 4520. Vie - Contend; Compete
Copper Which Has Been Exposed To The 4521. Vigil - Keeping Watch (During Normal
Weather Sleeping Hours)
4498. Verge - Border; Edge, Rim, Or Margin; Ex. On 4522. Vigilant - Watchful; On The Alert; Watchfully
The Verge Of Very Near To; V Border On Awake; Alert To Spot Danger; N. Vigilance
4499. Verisimilar - Having The Appearance Of 4523. Vigilante - One Who Without Authority
Truth Or Reality; Probable Or Likely To Be Assumes Law Enforcement Powers
True; Plausible 4524. Vignette - Small Drawing Placed At The
4500. Verisimilitude - Appearance Of Truth; Beginning Or End Of A Chapter; Picture;
Quality Of Appearing To Be True Or Real; Short Literary Sketch
Likelihood 4525. Vigor - Active Strength; Energy; Enthusiasm;
Adj. Vigorous

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
135
4526. Vile - Despicable; Unpleasant; Disgusting; 4550. Vituperative - Abusive; Scolding

Ex. Vile Slander 4551. Vivacious - Lively Or Animated; Sprightly,
4527. Vilify - Slander; Speak Evil Of; N. Vilification Lively
4528. Vindicate - Clear From Blame; Free From 4552. Vivid - (Of Light Or Color) Bright And
Blame Or Accusation (With Supporting Distinct; Evoking Lifelike Mental Images
Proof) 4553. Vivisection - Act Of Dissecting Living
4529. Vindictive - Disposed To Revenge; Vengeful; Animals
Out For Revenge; Spiteful; Intended To 4554. Vixen - Female Fox; Ill-Tempered Woman
Cause Harm; Malicious 4555. Vociferous - Clamorous; Noisy
4530. Vintner - Wine Merchant; Winemaker; Seller 4556. Vogue - Popular Fashion
Of Wine 4557. Volatile - Changeable; Of A Quickly
4531. Violate - Break (A Law); Defile; Desecrate; Changing Nature (As Of Temper); Mercurial;
Assault Sexually; Ex. Violate Graves Tending To Violence
4532. Viper - Poisonous Snake 4558. Volition - Act Of Using One’S Will; Act Of
4533. Virile - Manly; Having Masculine Spirit Or Making A Conscious Choice; Ex. She
Strength; Full Of Strength Selected This Dress Of Her Own Volition.
4534. Virtual - In Essence; Existing In Essence 4559. Volley - Simultaneous Discharge Of A
Though Not In Actual Form; For Practical Number Of Shots
Purposes 4560. Voluble - Fluent; Talkative; Glib
4535. Virtue - Goodness; Moral Excellence; Good 4561. Voluminous - Having Great Volume (As Of A
Quality; Advantage Garment Or Container); Bulky; Large
4536. Virtuoso - Highly Skilled Artist (Esp. In 4562. Voluptuous - Sensual; Of Or Giving Sensual
Music); Ex. Piano Virtuoso Pleasure; Indulging In Sensual Pleasures
4537. Virulent - (Of A Disease Or Poison) 4563. Voodoo - Religion Practiced Chiefly In Haiti
Extremely Harmful Or Poisonous; (Of A 4564. Voracious - Ravenous; Eating Large
Feeling) Hostile; Bitter Quantities Of Food; Exceedingly Eager;
4538. Virus - Disease Communicator Insatiable
4539. Visage - Face; Appearance 4565. Vortex - Whirlwind; Whirlpool; Center Of
4540. Visceral - Felt In One’S Inner Organs; N. Turbulence; Predicament Into Which One Is
Viscera Internal Body Organs Inexorably Plunged
4541. Viscid - Adhesive; Gluey 4566. Vouch - Give A Personal Guarantee; Ex. I
4542. Viscous - (Of A Liquid) Thick And Sticky; Can Vouch For His Integrity; N. Voucher
Gluey; Viscid 4567. Vouchsafe - Grant Condescendingly;
4543. Vise - Vice Tool For Holding Work In Place; Guarantee; Ex. Vouchsafe Your Fair Return
Clamping Device On Your Investment
4544. Vision - Eyesight; Foresight; Mental Image 4568. Voyeur - Peeping Tom; Person Who Derives
Produced By The Imagination; Experience Of Sexual Gratification From Observing The
Seeing The Supernatural Sexual Acts Of Others
4545. Visionary - Produced By Imagination; 4569. Vulgar - Of The Common People; Deficient
Fanciful; Mystical; Showing Foresight In Refinement; Not Refined; Coarse
4546. Vital - Full Of Life; Animated; Vibrant And Vulgarity; Crudely Indecent Word
Lively; Critical; Of Great Importance; 4570. Vulnerable - Susceptible To Wounds Or
Necessary To Stay Alive; Of Life Attack; N. Vulnerability
4547. Vitiate - Spoil The Effect Of; Make 4571. Vulpine - Like A Fox; Crafty
Inoperative; Corrupt Morally 4572. Vulture - Carrion-Eating Birds
4548. Vitreous - Of Glass; Pertaining To Or 4573. Vying - Contending; Cf. Vie
Resembling Glass
4549. Vitriolic - Causing Sharp Pain To The Mind;
W
Caustic; Corrosive; Sarcastic; Of Vitriol

136
4574. Wade - Walk Through A Substance, Such As 4599. Wax - Increase Gradually (As The Moon);
Water, That Impedes Movement Grow
4575. Waffle - Speak Equivocally About An Issue 4600. Waylay - Ambush; Lie In Wait For And Attack
4576. Waft - Move Gently (In Air Or In Seas) By 4601. Wean - Accustom A Baby Not To Nurse;
Wind Or Waves; Ex. Leaves Wafting Past The Accustom (The Young Of A Mammal) To
Window Take Nourishment Other Than By Suckling
4577. Wag - Shake Repeatedly From Side To Side; 4602. Weary - Tired After Long Work
Ex. The Dog Wagged Its Tail; N Humorous 4603. Weather - Pass Safely Through (A Storm Or
Person; Wit Difficult Period); Endure The Effects Of
4578. Wage - Begin And Continue (A War) Weather Or Other Forces
4579. Waggish - Humorous; Mischievous; Tricky 4604. Weird - Eerie; Strange; Unnatural
4580. Waif - Homeless Child Or Animal; Ex. Waifs 4605. Well-Bred - Of Good Upbringing; Well-
And Strays Mannered And Refined
4581. Waive - Give Up Temporarily; Yield; N. 4606. Welt - Raised Mark From A Beating Or
Waiver Waiving A Right Or Claim; Document Whipping
That Waives A Right Or Claim 4607. Welter - Wallow (As In Mud Or High Seas);
4582. Wake - Trail Of Ship Or Other Object Lie Soaked (As In Blood)
Through Water; Path Of Something That Has 4608. Wheedle - Deceive, Persuade, Or Obtain By
Gone Before Flattery; Cajole; Coax
4583. Wallow - Roll In Mud; Indulge In; (Of A Ship) 4609. Whelp - Young Animal (Esp. Of The Dog Or
Roll In A Rough Sea; Become Helpless Cat Family); Young Wolf, Dog, Tiger, Etc.
4584. Wan - Having A Pale Or Sickly Color; Pallid 4610. Whet - Sharpen; Stimulate
4585. Wanderlust - Strong Longing To Travel 4611. Whiff - Puff Or Gust (Of Air, Scent, Etc.);
4586. Wane - Decrease In Size Or Strength (After Short-Lasting Smell; Hint
Being Full); Grow Gradually To An End 4612. Whim - Sudden Capricious Idea; Fancy
4587. Wangle - Achieve By Cleverness Or Trick; 4613. Whimsical - Capricious; Fanciful; Amusingly
Wiggle Out; Fake; Ex. She Tried To Wangle Strange
An Invitation To The Party. 4614. Whimsy - Whim; Tendency To Behave
4588. Wanton - Unrestrained; Gratuitously Cruel; Amusingly Strangely
Willfully Malicious; Unchaste; Sexually 4615. Whine - Complain (In A Sad Voice); Make A
Improper; Promiscuous High Sad Sound (As In Pain Or Supplication)
4589. Warble - (Of A Bird) Sing; Babble 4616. Whinny - Neigh Like A Horse
4590. Ward - Administrative Division Of A City; 4617. Whit - Small Amount; Smallest Speck
Division In A Hospital Or Prison; 4618. Whittle - Pare; Cut Away Thin Bits (From
Incompetent Person Wood); Fashion In This Way; Reduce
4591. Warp - Twist Out Of Shape Gradually; Trim
4592. Warrant - Justification; Written Order That 4619. Wholesome - Conducive To Mental Or
Serves As Authorization (Esp. A Judicial Physical Health; Healthful
Writ) 4620. Whorl - Ring Of Leaves Around Stem; Ring;
4593. Warranted - Justified; Authorized Circular Arrangement
4594. Warranty - Guarantee; Assurance By Seller 4621. Wiggle - Wriggle; Move From Side To Side
4595. Warren - Tunnels In Which Rabbits Live; With Irregular Twisting Motions
Overcrowded Living Area; Crowded 4622. Willful - Intentional; Headstrong
Conditions In Which People Live 4623. Willowy - Flexible; Pliant; Slender
4596. Wary - Very Cautious; Watchful 4624. Wilt - Loose Freshness; Droop
4597. Wastrel - Waster; Profligate 4625. Wily - Crafty; Cunning; Artful; N. Wile
4598. Waver - Move Or Swing Back And Forth; Be Deceitful Stratagem
Uncertain Or Unsteady In Decision Or
Movement

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
137
4626. Wince - Move Back Suddenly; Shrink Back; 4651. Wring - Twist (To Extract Liquid); Extract By
Flinch; Ex. She Winced As She Touched The Twisting; Wrench Painfully (Necks Or
Cold Body. Hands)
4627. Windfall - Fallen Fruit; Unexpected Lucky 4652. Wrinkle - Small Ridge On A Smooth Surface
Event (Face Or Cloth)
4628. Winnow - Sift; Separate The Chaff From 4653. Writ - Written Command Issued By A Court
Grain By Blowing; Separate Good Parts From (Telling Someone To Do Or Not To Do
Bad Something)
4629. Winsome - Charming (In A Childlike Way); 4654. Writhe - Twist In Coils; Contort In Pain
Agreeable; Gracious; Engaging 4655. Wrongheaded - Stubbornly Wrong
4630. Wisp - Small Bunch (Of Hair); Faint Streak 4656. Wry - (Esp. Of An Expression Of The Face)
(Of Smoke) Twisted; With A Humorous Twist
4631. Wispy - Thin; Slight; Barely Discernible (Expressing Displeasure)
4632. Wistful - Sadly Thoughtful (Because Of
Desires Or Memories); Sadly Pensive;
Vaguely Longing
X
4633. Withdrawn - Introverted; Retiring; Remote 4657. Xanadu - An Imaginary Exotic, Beautiful,
Remote/Distant In Manner; Aloof Idyllic Place First Mentioned In Saint
4634. Wither - (Of A Plant) Dry Up From Loss Of Coleridge’S Kuba Khan
Moisture; Lose Freshness; Shrivel; Decay 4658. Xanthous - Relating To, Designating Races
4635. Withhold - Refuse To Give; Hold Back With Yellowish Hair In A Light Complexion
4636. Withstand - Stand Up Against; Resist 4659. Xenophobe - A Person Who Hates And
Successfully Distrusts Stranger Or Foreigners
4637. Witless - Lacking Intelligence Or Wit; 4660. Xenophobia - Fear Of Stranger Or Foreigners
Foolish; Idiotic 4661. Xerography - A Photocopying Process In
4638. Witticism - Witty Saying; Wisecrack(Clever Which An Electrostatic Image Is Formed On
Joking Remark) A Selenium Plate Or Cylinder
4639. Wizardry - Sorcery; Magic 4662. Xerostomia - Abnormal Lack Of Saliva,
4640. Wizened - Shriveled; Withered Dryness Of Mouth
4641. Woe - Great Sorrow; Deep Inconsolable 4663. X-Rated - Excessive Brutality Or
Grief; Affliction; Suffering Horrificness
4642. Woeful - Sad; (Of Something Bad) 4664. Xylem - Plant Tissue That Conducts Water
Deplorable; Deplorably Bad And Mineral Salts From The Roots To All
4643. Wont - (The Stated Person’S) Habit Or Other Parts
Custom; Habitual Procedure 4665. Xyloid - Woody
4644. Worldly - Engrossed In Matters Of This 4666. Xylophagous - Eating Or Destroying Wood
Earth; Not Spiritual; Of The Material World 4667. Xylophone - A Musical Instrument
4645. Wrangle - Quarrel Noisily; Obtain Through Consisting Of Wooden Bars That Are
Arguing; Herd Cattle Sounded By Being Struck With Millets
4646. Wrath - Anger; Fury 4668. Xylotomous - (Of Certain Insects) Cutting Or
4647. Wreak - Inflict; Ex. Wreak One’S Vengeance Boring Into Woods
On Y
4648. Wrench - Twist; Pull; Strain; Ex. He 4669. Yearling - N. A Young Animal Past Its First
Wrenched The Gun Out Of Her Hands. Year And Not Yet Two Years Old.
4649. Wrest - Obtain By Pulling Violently; Pull 4670. Yen - Strong Desire; Longing; Urge; Ex. Yen
Away; Take By Violence For Travel
4650. Wretch - Miserable Person; Bad Or 4671. Yeoman - Man Or Farmer Owning Small
Despicable Person Estate; Middle-Class Farmer

138
4672. Yield - Amount Produced; Crop; Income On

Investment; Profit Obtained From An
Z
Investment 4676. Zany - Comic; Crazy; N Clown; Comical
4673. Yoke - Join Together; Unite Person (Given To Outlandish Behavior)
4674. Yokel - Rustic; Country Bumpkin 4677. Zeal - Eager Enthusiasm (To A Cause Or
4675. Yore - Time Long Past; Ex. In The Days Of Ideal)
Yore 4678. Zealot - One Who Is Zealous; Fanatic;
Person Who Shows Excessive Zeal

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
139
Synonyms Exercise
Synonyms Exercise 03
1. Remote 11. Indifferent
(A) Automatic (B) Distant (A) Neutral (B) Unkind
(C) Savage (D) Mean (C) Precious (D) Mean
2. Detest 12. Simulate
(A) Argue (B) Hate (A) Excite (B) Imitate
(C) Discover (D) Reveal (C) Trick (D) Apelike
3. Gracious 13. Charisma
(A) Pretty (B) Clever (A) Ghost (B) Force
(C) Pleasant (D) Present (C) Charm (D) Courage
4. Predict 14. Apportion
(A) Foretell (B) Decide (A) Divide (B) Decide
(C) Prevent (D) Discover (C) Cut (D) Squabble
5. Kin 15. Qualm
(A) Exult (B) Twist (A) Distress (B) Impunity
(C) Friend (D) Relative (C) Persevere (D) Scruple
6. Pensive 16. Distort
(A) Oppressed (B) Caged (A) Wrong (B) Evil
(C) Thoughtful (D) Happy (C) Deform (D) Harm
7. Banish 17. Sumptuous
(A) Exile (B) Hate (A) Delirious (B) Gorgeous
(C) Fade (D) Clean (C) Perilous (D) Luxurious
8. Saccharine 18. Inscrutable
(A) Leave (B) Sweet (A) Difficult (B) Mysterious
(C) Arid (D) Quit (C) Inflexible (D) Wary
9. Drag 19. Appall
(A) Sleepy (B) Crush (A) Delirious (B) Covered
(C) Proud (D) Pull (C) Dismay (D) Confuse
10. Jovial 20. Upright
(A) Incredulous (B) Merry (A) Honorable (B) Horizontal
(C) Revolting (D) Dizzy (C) Humble (D) Supine

140
21. Reverie 33. Hustle

(A) Palimpsest (B) Phantom (A) Dance (B) Hurry
(C) Daydream (D) Curio (C) Busy (D) Clean
22. Loquacious 34. Solemn

(A) Talkative (B) Thirsty (A) Amusing (B) Harmful
(C) Beautiful (D) Complicated (C) Speech (D) Serious
23. Chimera 35. Imply

(A) Chimney (B) Protest (A) Suggest (B) Stab
(C) Illusion (D) Panache (C) Thick (D) Destroy
24. Temerity 36. Ramble

(A) Audacity (B) Fearfulness (A) Knot (B) Confuse
(C) Shyness (D) Stupidity (C) Wander (D) Wonder
25. Educe 37. Beneficial

(A) Demand (B) Elicit (A) Help (B) Advantageous
(C) Ideal (D) Unlawful (C) Charity (D) Wise
26. Nabob 38. Flare

(A) Bigwig (B) Doubter (A) Judicial (B) Temper
(C) Frolic (D) Converse (C) Style (D) Blaze
27. Sacrosanct 39. Negligent

(A) Prayer (B) Sanctuary (A) Pajamas (B) Morbid
(C) Pious (D) Sacred (C) Careless (D) Dark
28. Louche 40. Aloof

(A) Gauche (B) Fine (A) Above (B) Tidy
(C) Brilliant (D) Indecent (C) Clever (D) Reserved
29. Stentorian 41. Congregate

(A) Violent (B) Misbegotten (A) Worship (B) Gather
(C) Loud (D) Stealthy (C) Disturb (D) Hurry
30. Modest 42. Utter

(A) Attractive (B) Clever (A) Express (B) Defer
(C) Current (D) Humble (C) Borrow (D) Laugh
31. Custom 43. Negligible

(A) Dessert (B) Habit (A) Insignificant0 (B) Arguable
(C) Ethic (D) Deliver (C) Careless (D) Dark
32. Prolong 44. Placid

(A) Extend (B) Inquire (A) Calm (B) Lazy
(C) Relax (D) Wait (C) Solemn (D) Devious

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
141
45. Rake 57. Bespoke

(A) Thin (B) Scoundrel (A) Gentle (B) Quiet
(C) Gentleman (D) Shovel (C) Tailored (D) Handsome
46. Dupe 58. Diffident

(A) Rancher (B) Trick (A) Apathetic (B) Shy
(C) Simpleton (D) Drug (C) Arrogant (D) Quarrelsome
47. Stigma 59. Proffer

(A) Stain (B) Trial (A) Mendicant (B) Wastrel
(C) Difficulty (D) Holiness (C) Predict (D) Tender
48. Reside 60. Mordant

(A) Remain (B) Home (A) Dead (B) Gruesome
(C) Dwell (D) Sediment (C) Fetid (D) Caustic
49. Covetous 61. Churlish

(A) Quiet (B) Sneaky (A) Childish (B) Boorish
(C) Lurking (D) Greedy (C) Tempestuous (D) Disorderly
50. Shrewd 62. Antediluvian

(A) Intractable (B) Mean (A) Antiquated (B) Parched
(C) Astute (D) Intelligent (C) Nonsectarian (D) Nonsensical
51. Fetter 63. Picayune

(A) Rancid (B) Praise (A) Petty (B) Spicy
(C) Hamper (D) Persist (C) Paltry (D) Southern
52. Flagrant 64. Smite

(A) Vibrant (B) Glaring (A) Flee (B) Speck
(C) Vicious (D) Pleasant (C) Dirt (D) Strike
53. Mitigate 65. Winnow

(A) Relieve (B) Blend (A) Carve (B) Wind
(C) Defend (D) Confuse (C) Weed (D) Carry
54. Rail 66. Deplete

(A) Scold (B) Push (A) Decorate (B) Beg
(C) Try (D) Punish (C) Exhaust (D) Hurry
55. Rally 67. Voluntary

(A) Demonstrate (B) Muster (A) Willing (B) Charity
(C) Course (D) Truly (C) Prisoner (D) Careless
56. Abject 68. Refute

(A) Indigent (B) Desire (A) Garbage (B) Deny
(C) Despondent (D) Extreme (C) Offer (D) Difficult

142
69. Cheat 81. Latent

(A) Stingy (B) Argue (A) Dormant (B) Recent
(C) Freckle (D) Defraud (C) Effeminate (D) Desirable
70. Miserable 82. Wretched

(A) Cruel (B) Wrong (A) Twisted (B) Forced
(C) Unhappy (D) Miss (C) Miserable (D) Increased
71. Vintage 83. Irksome

(A) Classic (B) Alcoholic (A) Outrageous (B) Fearsome
(C) Disease (D) Spoiled (C) Impoverished (D) Annoying
72. Tart 84. Regulate

(A) Law (B) Acid (A) Even (B) Police
(C) Angry (D) Desirable (C) Flow (D) Position
73. Corner 85. Warrant

(A) Display (B) Trap (A) Justify (B) Burrow
(C) Paint (D) Hurry (C) Hide (D) Integrity
74. Zest 86. Protract

(A) Gusto (B) Cram (A) Hire (B) Fold
(C) Worry (D) Trial (C) Delay (D) Corner
75. Haggle 87. Lax

(A) Tired (B) Climb (A) Ensure (B) Slack
(C) Decrease (D) Bargain (C) Servant (D) Strive
76. Impel 88. Rigor

(A) Force (B) Block (A) Austerity (B) Rope
(C) Hinder (D) Discredit (C) Fix (D) Excess
77. Throng 89. Discrete

(A) Garment (B) Bell (A) Leave (B) Diminish
(C) Mass (D) Weight (C) Squander (D) Distinct
78. Imperial 90. Lissome

(A) Bratty (B) Oppressive (A) Slow (B) Honest
(C) Regal (D) Beautiful (C) Supple (D) Dull
79. Diffuse 91. Misprize

(A) Difficult (B) Scatter (A) Despise (B) Devalue
(C) Incomprehensible (D) Unplug (C) Erroneous (D) Covet
80. Hinder 92. Impugn

(A) Lose (B) Loose (A) Imply (B) Fret
(C) Despair (D) Check (C) Assail (D) Recalcitrant

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
143
93. Supervene 105. Lull

(A) Intervene (B) Overreach (A) Pause (B) Noise
(C) Displace (D) Follow (C) Boring (D) Mark
94. Exigent 106. Outfit

(A) Urgent (B) Treatise (A) indoors (B) strong
(C) Miser (D) Expedient (C) Special (D) Furnish
95. Fervid 107. Omit

(A) Delightful (B) Difficult (A) Recluse (B) Neglect
(C) Obstinate (D) Ardent (C) Mistake (D) Destroy
96. Ersatz 108. Mutiny

(A) Chaotic (B) Artificial (A) Rebellion (B) Currency
(C) Impromptu (D) Vague (C) Sailor (D) Hassle
97. Redolent 109. Naive

(A) Ubiquitous (B) Odorous (A) Rural (B) Secular
(C) Shy (D) Bellicose (C) Unsophisticated (D) Sultry
98. Turpitude 110. Solemnity

(A) Lethargy (B) Honor (A) Lightheartedness (B) Gravity
(C) Belligerence (D) Depravity (C) Diligence (D) Sleepiness
99. Propinquity 111. Malign

(A) Habit (B) Nearness (A) Evil (B) Malicious
(C) Capacity (D) Tendency (C) Slander (D) Grandiose
100. Vociferous 112. Impudent

(A) Numerous (B) Bountiful (A) Cautious (B) Haphazard
(C) Strident (D) Garrulous (C) Gleeful (D) Insolent
101. Delirious 113. Lambaste

(A) Manic (B) Calm (A) Marinade (B) Commotion
(C) Tasty (D) Suspicious (C) Censure (D) Tickle
102. Infirm 114. Rudimentary

(A) Hospital (B) Weak (A) Crass (B) Gracious
(C) Short (D) Fortitude (C) Deliberate (D) Primitive
103. Lure 115. Pitched

(A) Tickle (B) Decoy (A) Undone (B) Retracted
(C) Resist (D) Suspect (C) Heated (D) Lovely
104. Isolation 116. Largesse

(A) Fear (B) Plentitude (A) Greatness (B) Generosity
(C) Solitude (D) Disease (C) Miniscule (D) Clumsiness

144
117. Decorum 129. Superficial

(A) Etiquette (B) Merit (A) Gorgeous (B) Shallow
(C) Parliament (D) Slipshod (C) Intelligent (D) Rich
118. Tumid 130. Tangle

(A) Swollen (B) Fetid (A) Snarl (B) Growl
(C) Aggressive (D) Despondent (C) Dance (D) Shiver
119. Sinecure 131. Reform

(A) Cakewalk (B) Serpentine (A) Punish (B) Destroy
(C) Evil (D) Dishonest (C) Display (D) Correct
120. Castigate 132. Methodical

(A) Neuter (B) Punish (A) Rhythmic (B) Poetic
(C) Banish (D) Celebrate (C) Systematic (D) Disrespectful
121. Obloquy 133. Spite

(A) Tirade (B) Dependence (A) Joy (B) Beverage
(C) Oval (D) Circumlocution (C) Wonder (D) Malice
122. Querulous 134. Smudge

(A) Nauseous (B) Fretful (A) Gloat (B) Residue
(C) Curious (D) Dizzy (C) Blur (D) Celebrate
123. Wrath 135. Drizzle

(A) Knot (B) Anger (A) Curly (B) Sprinkle
(C) Crime (D) Smoke (C) Sear (D) Drench
124. Plethora 136. Mundane

(A) Trouble (B) Foolish (A) Dirty (B) Commonplace
(C) Wealth (D) Love (C) Confused (D) Extraordinary
125. Calamity 137. Pretension

(A) Potion (B) Silence (A) Stress (B) Ambition
(C) Shellfish (D) Disaster (C) Waste (D) Strife
126. Pompous 138. Herald

(A) Arrogant (B) Supportive (A) Insignia (B) Postpone
(C) Busy (D) Gaudy (C) Hail (D) Regal
127. Prevalent 139. Mirth

(A) Wind (B) Servile (A) Anger (B) Glee
(C) Widespread (D) Rare (C) Sarcasm (D) Mistrust
128. Wince 140. Drudgery

(A) Flinch (B) Cheer (A) Silliness (B) Labor
(C) Crush (D) Solitary (C) Evil (D) Investigation

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
145
141. Prerequisite (C) Unruly (D) Subtract

(A) Necessary (B) Course
(C) Difficult (D) Tar 150. Coterie
(A) Various (B) Flirtation
142. Dire (C) Club (D) Socialize
(A) Questionable (B) Forthright
(C) Traitor (D) Urgent 151. Nefarious
(A) Infamous (B) Macabre
143. Sundry (C) Evil (D) Distinguished
(A) Aged (B) Supply
(C) Various (D) Tremendous 152. Curry
(A) Flatter (B) Spicy
144. Supplant (C) Squander (D) Game
(A) Grow (B) Replace
(C) Undo (D) Question
153. Preternatural
145. Venerate (A) Immature (B) Extraordinary
(A) Ordain (B) Breathe (C) Removed (D) Unearned
(C) Polish (D) Revere
154. Pernicious
146. Conciliate (A) Noxious (B) Illicit
(A) Appease (B) Disagree (C) Open (D) Undecided
(C) Revive (D) Separate
155. Reprisal
147. Exultant (A) Accusation (B) Loathe
(A) Afraid (B) Jubilant (C) Retaliation (D) Insinuation
(C) Expectant (D) Demanding
156. Manifold
148. Surreptitious (A) Evident (B) Contemporary
(A) Overbearing (B) Clandestine (C) Diverse (D) Willing
(C) Indirect (D) Impious
157. Factious
149. Recalcitrant (A) Sham (B) Unreliable
(A) Hesitant (B) Subdued (C) Seditiou (D) Argumentative

146
Solutions
Ans.1(B) remote means faraway, or distant Ans.25(B) to educe means to develop something
Ans.2(B) to detest means to feel intense or violent potential or latent; to elicit means to draw
dislike, or to hate out something hidden or latent
Ans.3(C) gracious means to be pleasant or Ans.26(A) a nabob is a person of great wealth or
considerate in social interactions importance, or a bigwig
Ans.4(A) to predict means to declare in advance or Ans.27(D) sacrosanct means the most sacred, or holy
to foretell Ans.28(D) louche means not reputable, or indecent
Ans.5(D) kin means people with common ancestors, Ans.29(C) stentorian means loud and is usually used
or relatives to imply a voice of great power and range
Ans.6(C) pensive means moodily or dreamily Ans.30(D) modest means to be free of conceit or
thoughtful pretension, or humble
Ans.7(A) to banish means to drive out from home or Ans.31(B) a custom means a long-established
country, or to exile practice, or a habit
Ans.8(B) saccharine means overly sweet Ans.32(A) to prolong means to lengthen in time, or
Ans.9(D) to drag is to pull, or to cause movement in to extend
a direction with applied force Ans.33(B) to hustle means to hurry
Ans.10(B) jovial means good humored or merry Ans.34(D) solemn means marked by grave sobriety,
Ans.11(A) to be indifferent is to be marked by or serious
impartiality or to be neutral Ans.35(A) to imply means to express indirectly, or to
Ans.12(B) to simulate is to assume the outward suggest
appearance of, or to imitate Ans.36(C) to ramble means to move aimlessly from
Ans.13(C) charisma is magnetic charm or appeal place to place, or to wander
Ans.14(A) to apportion is to divide and share out Ans.37(B) beneficial means causing benefit, or
Ans.15(D) a qualm is a feeling of uneasiness about a advantageous
moral issue, or a scruple Ans.38(D) flare means a fire or blaze used to signal;
Ans.16(C) to distort means to twist out of a normal flair means talent or style
state, or to deform Ans.39(C) negligent means marked by neglect, or
Ans.17(D) sumptuous means excessively costly, rich, careless
or luxurious Ans.40(D) aloof means distant in feeling, or reserved
Ans.18(B) inscrutable means not easily interpreted or Ans.41(B) to congregate means to gather in a group
understood, or mysterious Ans.42(A) to utter means to express in words
Ans.19(C) to appall is to overcome with shock, or to Ans.43(A) negligible means so small or insignificant
dismay as to deserve little attention
Ans.20(A) upright can mean either honorable or Ans.44(A) placid means free of disturbance, or calm
vertical; horizontal and supine are both Ans.45(B) a rake is a dissolute person, or a scoundrel
antonyms of upright Ans.46(B) to dupe means to deceive or to trick
Ans.21(C) a reverie means the state of being lost in Ans.47(A) stigma means a mark of shame or
thought, or a daydream discredit, or a stain
Ans.22(A) loquacious means excessively talkative, or Ans.48(C) to reside means to occupy a place as one’s
garrulous home, or to dwell
Ans.23(C) a chimera is a fabrication of the mind, or Ans.49(D) covetous means having an inordinate
an illusion desire for wealth, or greedy
Ans.24(A) temerity means unreasonable contempt Ans.50(C) shrewd means marked by clever
for danger or recklessness, or audacity awareness, or astute

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
147
Ans.51(C) to fetter means to hamper, or to restrain Ans.75(A) one meaning of zest is keen enjoyment,
Ans.52(B) flagrant means obviously wrong or or gusto
immoral; glaring means painfully obvious Ans.76(D) to haggle means to negotiate over terms
Ans.53(A) mitigate means to make less severe or or price, or to bargain
painful, or to relieve Ans.77(A) to impel means to drive forward using
Ans.54(A) to rail means to scold in harsh, abusive strong moral pressure, or to force
language Ans.78(C) a throng is a large number of assembled
Ans.55(C) to meld means to merge or to blend people, or a mass
Ans.56(B) to rally means to arouse for action, or to Ans.79(C) imperial means befitting or suggesting an
muster emperor; regal means befitting or
Ans.57(C) abject means cast down in spirit, or utterly suggesting a king
hopeless; Ans.80(B) to diffuse means to break up or spread
despondent means having lost all hope out, or to scatter
Ans.58(C) bespoke means custom-made; tailored Ans.81(D) to hinder means to hold back; one
also means custom-made meaning of to check means to slow or
Ans.59(B) diffident means shy or lacking in bring to a stop
confidence Ans.82(A) latent means capable of becoming but not
Ans.60(D) to proffer means to put something forward currently visible, or dormant
for acceptance, or to tender Ans.83(C) wretched means extremely distressed, or
Ans.61(D) mordant means biting or caustic in means miserable
or speech Ans.84(D) irksome means tedious or annoying
Ans.62(B) churlish means resembling an ill-bred or Ans.85(B) to regulate means to bring under the
vulgar person, or boorish control of law; to police means to control
Ans.63(A) antediluvian means so ancient that it or keep order
could have come before the time of the Ans.86(A) to warrant means to serve as adequate
flood and Noah’s ark, or antiquated ground or reason, or to justify
Ans.64(C) picayune means trivial or of little value; Ans.87(C) to protract means to prolong in time or
paltry means trivial or meager space, or to delay
Ans.65(D) smite means to strike heavily especially Ans.88(B) lax means in a relaxed state, or slack
with the hand Ans.89(A) rigor means severity of life, or austerity
Ans.66(C) to winnow means to sift or get rid of, like Ans.90(D) discrete means individually distinct
weed, it is often used with “out’’ Ans.91(C) lissome means supple or flexible
Ans.67(C) deplete means to reduce or deprive or Ans.92(A) to misprize means to hold in contempt, or
something essential; to despise
exhaust means to empty completely Ans.93(C) to impugn means to attack verbally as
Ans.68(A) voluntary means done by one’s own will, or false or lacking integrity;
willing to assail means to attack
Ans.69(B) to refute means to prove wrong, or to Ans.94(D) to supervene means to follow as an
deny the truth of unexpected development
Ans.70(D) to cheat means to influence by means of Ans.95(A) exigent means demanding immediate
trickery, or to defraud attention, or urgent
Ans.71(C) miserable means in a state of distress or Ans.96(D) fervid means ardent or passionate
unhappiness Ans.97(B) ersatz means a usually artificial or inferior
Ans.72(A) vintage means of old and enduring substitute
interest, or classic Ans.98(B) redolent means aromatic or full of a
Ans.73(B) tart means pleasantly sharp or acid to the specific scent, or odorous
taste Ans.99(D) turpitude means wickedness, or depravity
Ans.74(B) to corner means to drive into a corner, or Ans.100(B) propinquity means nearness in place or
to trap time

148
Ans.101(C) vociferous means loud and insistent, often Ans.126(A) pompous means self-important, or
in presentation of demands or requests; arrogant
strident also means loud and insistent Ans.127(C) prevalent means generally accepted, or
Ans.102(A) delirious means marked by frenzied widespread
excitement, or manic Ans.128(A) to wince means to shrink back
Ans.103(B) infirm means feeble from age, or weak involuntarily, or to flinch
Ans.104(B) a lure is used to attract animals into a trap, Ans.129(B) superficial means to be concerned only
like a decoy with the surface or appearance, or shallow
Ans.105(C) isolation means the state of being alone Ans.130(A) a tangle is a twisted, knotted mass, or a
or withdrawn, or solitude snarl
Ans.106(A) a lull is a temporary pause Ans.131(D) to reform means to change for the better,
Ans.107(D) to outfit means to supply or to furnish or to correct
Ans.108(B) to omit means to leave out, to fail to Ans.132(C) methodical means proceeding according
perform, or to neglect to an order or system, or systematic
Ans.109(A) mutiny means resistance to lawful Ans.133(D) spite means petty ill will or hatred, or
authority, or rebellion malice
Ans.110(C) naive means unaffectedly simple, or Ans.134(C) a smudge is a blurry spot or streak
unsophisticated Ans.135(B) one meaning of to drizzle is to rain in
Ans.111(B) solemnity means formal or ceremonious very small drops, or to sprinkle
observance, or Ans.136(B) mundane means ordinary or commonplace
seriousness; gravity means dignity of Ans.137(B) pretension means an effort to establish, or
bearing, or seriousness ambition
Ans.112(C) to malign means to speak false or harmful Ans.138(C) to herald means to greet with enthusiasm,
things of, or to slander or to hail
Ans.113(D) impudent means contemptuously bold or Ans.139(B) mirth means gladness expressed with
cocky, or insolent laughter, or glee
Ans.114(C) to lambaste means to attack verbally, or Ans.140(B) drudgery means uninspiring or menial
to censure labor
Ans.115(D) rudimentary means crude or primitive Ans.141(A) prerequisite means necessary for carrying
Ans.116(B) largesse means liberal giving or generosity out a function
Ans.117(A) decorum means conduct required in social Ans.142(D) dire means desperately urgent
life, or etiquette Ans.143(C) sundry means an indeterminate number, or
Ans.118(A) tumid means puffy or swollen various
Ans.119(A) a sinecure is a job for which little or no Ans.144(B) to supplant means take the place of, or to
work is expected; a cakewalk is a one Replace
sided competition Ans.145(D) to venerate means to treat with reverential
Ans.120(B) to castigate means to subject to severe respect, or to revere
punishment Ans.146(A) to conciliate means to gain goodwill with
Ans.121(A) obloquy means abusive language; tirade pleasing acts, or to appease
means harshly censorious language Ans.147(B) exultant means filled with or expressing
Ans.122(B) querulous means habitually complaining, great joy, or jubilant
or fretful Ans.148(B) surreptitious means done or acquired in
Ans.123(B) wrath means strong, vengeful anger stealth, or clandestine
Ans.124(C) abundance means an ample quantity, or Ans.149(C) recalcitrant means defiant of authority, or
wealth unruly
Ans.125(D) a calamity is an extraordinarily grave Ans.150(C) a coterie is an intimate or exclusive group
event, or disaster or people who share a common interest or
purpose; a club is an association of people
for a common purpose

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
149
Ans.151(C) nefarious means flagrantly wicked, or evil Ans.155(C) a reprisal is an act of vengeance, or a
Ans.152(A) to curry means to seek to gain favor, or retaliation
to flatter Ans.156(C) manifold means marked by variety, or
Ans.153(B) preternatural means exceeding what is diverse
natural, or extraordinary Ans.157(C) factious means inclined to form factions;
Ans.154(A) pernicious means highly injurious or seditious means disposed to insurrection
deadly, or noxious

150
Antonym
AntonymExercise
Exercise
04
1. Impartial
(A) Hostile (B) Biased 12. Dearth
(C) Dislike (D) Worried (A) Lack (B) Poverty
(C) Abundance (D) Foreign
2. Luminous
(A) Clear (B) Dim 13. Abridge
(C) Brittle (D) Clever (A) Shorten (B) Extend
(C) Stress (D) Easy
3. Awe
(A) Borrow (B) Shallow 14. Kindle
(C) Low (D) Contempt (A) Smother (B) Detest
(C) Enemy (D) Discourage
4. Pit
(A) Group (B) Peak 15. Meager
(C) Select (D) Marry (A) Kind (B) Generous
(C) Thoughtful (D) Copious
5. Rotund
(A) Round (B) Unimportant 16. Philistine
(C) Thin (D) Dull (A) Novice (B) Intellectual
(C) Pious (D) Debutante
6. Common
(A) Strange (B) Uneasy 17. Germane
(C) Quick (D) Fast (A) Irrelevant (B) Indifferent
(C) Impartial (D) Improvident
7. Brazen
(A) Bashful (B) Boisterous 18. Irascible
(C) Noisy (D) Heated (A) Determined (B) Placid
(C) Reasonable (D) Pliant
8. Malodorous
(A) Acrid (B) Pungent 19. Approbate
(C) Fragrant (D) Delicious (A) Ingratitude (B) Condemn
(C) Dissatisfaction (D) Master
9. Expound
(A) Besmirch (B) Confuse 20. Supercilious
(C) Confine (D) Condemn (A) Unimportant (B) Relevant
(C) Serious (D) Meek
10. Pique
(A) Value (B) Gully 21. Improvident
(C) Smooth (D) Soothe (A) Cautious (B) Fortunate
(C) Proven (D) Intelligent
11. Abate
(A) Free (B) Augment 22. Demur
(C) Provoke (D) Wane (A) Embrace (B) Crude
(C) Boisterous (D) Falter

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
151
23. Fatuous 35. Brawny

(A) Crafty (B) Frugal (A) Swift (B) Weak
(C) Sensible (D) Inane (C) Strong (D) Pale
24. Quiescent 36. Fickle

(A) Lackadaisical (B) Active (A) Steady (B) Kind
(C) Dull (D) Prescient (C) Please (D) Finagle
25. Sartorial 37. Inept

(A) Cheerful (B) Sincere (A) Clumsy (B) Infer
(C) Inelegant (D) Homespun (C) Competent (D) Foolish
26. Sapient 38. Pivotal

(A) Hunched (B) Strong (A) Turning (B) Wavy
(C) Simple (D) Simian (C) Unimportant (D) Clear
27. Matutinal 39. Cursed

(A) Paternal (B) Crepuscular (A) Swore (B) Pious
(C) Maritime (D) Marsupial (C) Unfortunate (D) Lucky
28. Impecunious 40. Candid

(A) Wealthy (B) Cautious (A) Unkind (B) Blunt
(C) Hungry (D) Tardy (C) Valid (D) Dishonest
29. Detain 41. Flaunt

(A) Release (B) Silence (A) Regard (B) Sink
(C) Forget (D) Prosper (C) Hide (D) Propose
30. Famous 42. Heal

(A) Boring (B) Poor (A) Sew (B) Foot
(C) Obscure (D) Untalented (C) Good (D) Maim
31. Colossal 43. Pacify

(A) Easy (B) Tiny (A) Excite (B) Land
(C) Graceful (D) Roof (C) Coddle (D) Unhand
32. Fluid 44. Sullen

(A) Solid (B) Liquid (A) Dirty (B) Cheerful
(C) Afraid (D) Decent (C) Clean (D) Risen
33. Continue 45. Assure

(A) Curve (B) Argue (A) Alarm (B) Reassure
(C) Carry (D) Pause (C) Quiet (D) Unsure
34. Labor 46. Fallacious

(A) Amuse (B) Cat (A) Perfect (B) Truthful
(C) Rest (D) Strive (C) Accidental (D) Disarming

152
47. Gumption 59. Perspicacious

(A) seriousness (B) Apathy (A) Calm (B) Easy
(C) Levity (D) Despair (C) Dull (D) Winsome
48. Ecstasy 60. Elan

(A) Hate (B) Agony (A) Inelegance (B) Stupidity
(C) Languor (D) Fatigue (C) Obscure (D) Despair
49. Astute 61. Recondite

(A) Distraught (B) Careful (A) Manifest (B) Flexible
(C) Generous (D) Gullible (C) Provident (D) Sociable
50. Winsome 62. Gainsay

(A) Dour (B) Attractive (A) Regret (B) Own
(C) Mysterious (D) Clever (C) Prudent (D) Prude
51. Droll 63. Effluvium

(A) Forget (B) Charm (A) Land (B) Essential
(C) Sedate (D) Absurd (C) Fragrance (D) Solid
52. Enigmatic 64. Parsimony

(A) Healthy (B) Watchful (A) Generosity (B) Sinfulness
(C) Disastrous (D) Obvious (C) Verbosity (D) Tenderness
53. Obtuse 65. Truculent

(A) Slim (B) Acute (A) Faltering (B) Gentle
(C) Opaque (D) Thick (C) Facile (D) Submissive
54. Obsequious 66. Spurious

(A) Clear (B) Clever (A) Disingenuous (B) Thoughtless
(C) Domineering (D) Dandified (C) Placid (D) Genuine
55. Doleful 67. Welter

(A) Empty (B) Rich (A) Order (B) Freeze
(C) Witty (D) Vivacious (C) Patron (D) Sustain
56. Wanton 68. Eclat

(A) Merciful (B) Repast (A) Apathy (B) Dullness
(C) Brilliant (D) Vicious (C) Silence (D) Disinterest
57. Banal 69. Gracious

(A) Sincere (B) Wealthy (A) Cordial (B) Rude
(C) Extraordinary (D) Trustworthy (C) Furious (D) Tactile
58. Lugubrious 70. Valor

(A) Quick (B) Cheerful (A) Cowardice (B) False
(C) Salubrious (D) Dry (C) Drop (D) Heavy

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
153
71. Severe 83. Concede

(A) Lenient (B) Cautious (A) Sit (B) Withstand
(C) Join (D) One (C) Dismiss (D) Elaborate
72. Imaginative 84. Placate

(A) Playful (B) Written (A) Appease (B) Strip
(C) Small (D) Dull (C) Tremendous (D) Enrage
73. Knowing 85. Popular

(A) Wasteful (B) Dense (A) Empty (B) Uncommon
(C) Clumsy (D) Fast (C) Famous (D) Feisty
74. Animosity 86. Felicitous

(A) Love (B) Plantlike (A) Morbid (B) Boorish
(C) Barren (D) Tiny (C) Inopportune (D) Delightful
75. Extravagant 87. Austere

(A) Unknown (B) Homebody (A) Lavish (B) Unfavorable
(C) Punctual (D) Moderate (C) Light (D) Devout
76. Stamina 88. Insipid

(A) Weakness (B) Clear (A) Cold (B) Brave
(C) Decisive (D) Calmness (C) Exciting (D) Bashful
77. Rough 89. Wastrel

(A) Tumble (B) Sleek (A) Sober (B) Spendthrift
(C) Fast (D) Distant (C) Mute (D) Miser
78. Garner 90. Temperate

(A) Unravel (B) Mar (A) Celsius (B) Inordinate
(C) Squander (D) Tarnish (C) Lukewarm (D) Safely
79. Prodigal 91. Nebulous

(A) Thrifty (B) Secondary (A) Cloudy (B) Dim
(C) Distant (D) Squalid (C) Distinct (D) Desirable
80. Tacit 92. Adroit

(A) Grand (B) Dictated (A) Clumsy (B) Left
(C) Illicit (D) Messy (C) Diplomatic (D) Unpersuasive
81. Repudiate 93. Mite

(A) Argue (B) Soften (A) Weakness (B) Tend
(C) Slander (D) Admit (C) Bulk (D) Drive
82. Pristine 94. Supernal

(A) Free (B) Sullied (A) Nocturnal (B) Special
(C) Wide (D) Thorough (C) Despicable (D) Hellish

154
95. Reprobate 107. Attain

(A) Sage (B) Elevated (A) Crave (B) Lose
(C) Possess (D) Dismiss (C) Harbor (D) Credit
96. Specious 108. Taint

(A) Genuine (B) Logical (A) Cheer (B) Worry
(C) Common (D) Deliberate (C) Clear (D) Purify
97. Effete 109. Belittle

(A) Conquer (B) Proper (A) Plain (B) Detract
(C) Prosperous (D) Civilized (C) Magnify (D) Torment
98. Rabble 110. Tedious

(A) Order (B) Clear (A) Unwavering (B) Frightening
(C) Open (D) Union (C) Horrible (D) Pleasurable
99. Protean 111. Frivolous

(A) Unformed (B) Unchanging (A) Pious (B) Inexpensive
(C) Elaborate (D) Selective (C) Serious (D) Contemptuous
100. Vertiginous 112. Plain

(A) Horizontal (B) Litigious (A) Meadow (B) Ugly
(C) Constant (D) Lowly (C) Lovely (D) Unadorned
101. Parvenu 113. Denounce

(A) Wallflower (B) Highway (A) Covet (B) Condemn
(C) Melody (D) Plan (C) Blame (D) Deplore
102. Lapidarian 114. Contrary

(A) Square (B) Secular (A) Urbane (B) Agreeable
(C) Pasture (D) Inelegant (C) Unpleasant (D) Despicable
103. Tireless 115. Glower

(A) Exhausted (B) Unfailing (A) Prairie (B) Smile
(C) Broke (D) Driving (C) Raise (D) Throw
104. Wean 116. Curtail

(A) Flourish (B) Flush (A) Remain (B) Detain
(C) Strengthen (D) Addict (C) Placate (D) Prolong
105. Haste 117. Eminent

(A) Delay (B) Frugal (A) Imminent (B) Obscure
(C) Debauchery (D) Solemnity (C) Retire (D) Unsure
106. Malice 118. Abdicate

(A) Goodwill (B) Bitterness (A) Deny (B) Usurp
(C) Coddle (D) Distress (C) Blame (D) Renounce

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
155
119. Indolent 127. Asperity

(A) Industrious (B) Complimentary (A) Moistness (B) Amenity
(C) Native (D) Smooth (C) Sour (D) Generosity
120. Fortuitous 128. Epicurean

(A) Undefended (B) Gratuitous (A) Ascetic (B) Slovenly
(C) Deliberate (D) Impoverished (C) Imprecision (D) Providential
121. Disparage 129. Spare

(A) Hesitate (B) Settle (A) Rotund (B) Pacify
(C) Trouble (D) Applaud (C) Impolite (D) Impose
122. Interdict 130. Proclivity

(A) Continue (B) Abstain (A) Calm (B) Antipathy
(C) Wallow (D) Sanction (C) Desire (D) Dearth
123. Mendacious
(A) Bashful (B) Capacious 131. Vituperation
(C) Veracious (D) Quiet (A) Alacrity (B) Alertness
(C) Reparation (D) Acclaim
124. Lassitude
(A) Release (B) Demure 132. Gambol
(C) Fatigue (D) Vigor (A) Trudge (B) Hedge
(C) Crone (D) Misplace
125. Verdant
(A) Dishonest (B) Suspicious 133. Quixotic
(C) Moldy (D) Arid (A) Simple (B) Staid
(C) Passe (D) Unpredictable
126. Ductile
(A) Unfeeling (B) Arrogant 134. Lachrymose
(C) Precious (D) Rigid (A) Quick (B) Loquacious
(C) Blithe (D) Plentiful

156
Solutions
Ans.1(B) impartial means to be without prejudice or Ans. 19B) to approbate means to approve or
bias, therefore biased is the opposite sanction; to condemn means to declare
Ans.2(B) luminous means radiating or reflecting wrong or to convict
light, or glowing; dim means dark or dull Ans.20(D) supercilious means coolly or patronizingly
Ans.3(D) awe means a sense of deep respect or haughty; meek eans enduring injury with
veneration; contempt means a lack of patience and without resentment
respect, or disdain Ans.21A) improvident means lacking prudent
Ans.4(B) a pit is a hole and a peak is the top of a hill foresight, or careless; cautious means to
or mountain be wary or to exercise forethought
Ans.5(C) rotund means rounded or plump, therefore Ans.22(A) to demur means to delay or hesitate; to
thin is the opposite embrace means to accept readily or gladly;
Ans.6(A) common means ordinary or familiar; demure means coy
strange means unfamiliar Ans.23(C) fatuous means inanely foolish; sensible is
Ans.7(A) brazen means to be defiant or insolent; its nearest opposite
bashful means to be shy or timid Ans.24(B) quiescent means marked by inactivity or
Ans.8(C) malodorous means to have a bad smell; repose, therefore active is the opposite
fragrant means smelling sweet or delicate Ans.25(A) sartorial means of or relating to tailored
Ans.9(B) to expound means to explain; to confuse, clothes; homespun means homemade
or confound, is the opposite of expound Ans.26(C) sapient means possessing great wisdom,
Ans.10(D) to pique means to excite or irritate; to or sage; one meaning of
soothe means to calm simple is deficient in intelligence
Ans.11(B) to abate means to reduce in degree or Ans.27(B) matutinal means of or relating to the
intensity; to augment means to increase morning; crepuscular means relating to or
Ans.12(C) dearth means an inadequate supply or lack resembling twilight
of something; abundance means an ample Ans.28(A) impecunious means having little or no
quantity, or wealthAns.13(B) to abridge money, therefore
means to shorten and to extend means to wealthy is the opposite
lengthen Ans.29(A) to detain means to hold or keep back; to
Ans.14(A) to kindle means to start burning or ignite; release means to let go
to smother means to stifle or suppress Ans.30(C) famous means widely known; obscure
Ans.15(D) meager means lacking in quality or means little known
quantity; copious means present in large Ans.31(B) colossal means incredibly large, therefore
quantity, or abundant tiny is the opposite
Ans.16(B) philistine is used disparagingly to describe Ans.32(A) a fluid is a substance that flows; a solid
a person guided by does not flow
material rather than intellectual values; an Ans.33(D) to continue means to act without
intellectual is a person who engages in interruption; to pause means to stop
creative use of his or her intellect temporarily
Ans.17A) germane means to be appropriate or Ans.34(C) to labor means to work; to rest means to
relevant, therefore irrelevant is the cease working
opposite Ans.35(B) brawny means muscled or strong,
Ans.18(B) irascible means easily angered; placid therefore weak is the Opposite
means calm or serene Ans.36(A) fickle means to lack steadiness, therefore
steady is the opposite

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
157
Ans.37(C) inept means to lack competence, therefore Ans.57(C) banal means trite or commonplace,
competent is the Opposite therefore extraordinary is the opposite
Ans.38(C) pivotal means very important, or crucial, Ans.58(B) lugubrious means mournful, or dismal,
therefore unimportant is the opposite therefore cheerful is the opposite
Ans.39(D) cursed means to be the subject of Ans.59(C) perspicacious means keen or astute,
misfortune, or to be unlucky, therefore therefore dull is the opposite
lucky is the opposite Ans.60(D) elan means vigorous spirit or enthusiasm;
Ans.40(D) candid means to be frank, or honest, despair means an utter loss of hope
therefore dishonest is the Opposite Ans.61(A) recondite means difficult for one of
Ans.41(C) to flaunt means to display showily, or to ordinary understanding to comprehend;
show off, therefore hide is the opposite manifest means easily understood or
Ans.42(D) to heal means to restore to health; to recognized
maim means to injure Ans.62(B) to gainsay means to deny; one meaning of
Ans.43(A) to pacify means to soothe, or calm, to own is to admit
therefore excite is the Opposite Ans.63(C) effluvium means an offensive smell;
Ans.44(B) sullen means showing a disagreeable fragrance means a sweet or delicate odor
mood, or lacking cheer, therefore cheerful Ans.64(A) parsimony means thrift or stinginess,
is the opposite therefore generosity is the opposite
Ans.45(A) to assure means to make sure by Ans.65(B) truculent means cruel or savage, therefore
removing doubt or worry; alarm means to gentle is the opposite
give warning or to arouse fear Ans.66(D) spurious means lacking genuine qualities,
Ans.46(B) fallacious means tending to deceive; or false, therefore
truthful means disposed to tell the truth genuine is the opposite
Ans.47(B) gumption means initiative, or drive; apathy Ans.67(A) welter means a state of wild disorder, or
means a lack of interest or concern turmoil, therefore order is the opposite
Ans.48(B) ecstasy means a state of rapturous Ans.68(B) eclat means a dazzling effect, or brilliance,
delight; agony means intense pain of mind therefore dullness is the opposite
or body Ans.69(B) gracious means to be pleasant in a social
Ans.49(D) astute means shrewd or showing acute situation, or cordial; rude means to be
mental vision; gullible means easily duped unpleasant
or cheated Ans.70(A) valor means strength of mind or spirit, or
Ans.50(A) winsome means cheerful and engaging; courage; cowardice means lack of courage
dour means gloomy or sullen Ans.71(A) one meaning of severe is strict; lenient
Ans.51(C) droll means to have a humorous or odd means mild or indulgent
quality; sedate means unruffled or serious Ans.72(D) imaginative means having imagination;
Ans.52(D) enigmatic means mysterious or obscure, dull means lacking imagination
therefore obvious is the opposite Ans.73(B) knowing means having information or
Ans.53(B) obtuse means insensitive or stupid; acute knowledge; dense means dull or stupid
means marked by Ans.74(A) animosity means resentment or hostility,
keen perception or shrewd therefore love is the opposite
Ans.54(C) obsequious means subservient or fawning; Ans.75(D) extravagant means lacking in restraint and
domineering means exercising moderation, therefore moderate is the
overbearing control opposite
Ans.55(D) doleful means full of grief or cheerless; Ans.76(A) stamina means strength or endurance,
vivacious means full of life and spirit therefore weakness is the opposite
Ans.56(A) one meaning of wanton is malicious or Ans.77(B) rough means having an uneven, coarse
merciless, therefore surface; sleek means having a smooth,
merciful is the opposite bright surface

158
Ans.78(C) to garner means to gather or to store; to Ans.97(B) effete means weak or decadent; one
squander means to cause to disperse or to meaning of proper is virtuous or
scatter respectable
Ans.79(A) prodigal means wasteful or extravagant; Ans.98(D) a rabble is a disorderly or disorganized
thrifty means thriving by industry and crowd of people; a union is a group of
frugality individuals joined in an organized manner
Ans.80(B) tacit means unspoken, or implied; dictated Ans.99(B) protean means showing great diversity or
means spoken variability, or versatile, therefore
Ans.81(D) to repudiate means to reject or deny, unchanging is the opposite
therefore to admit is the opposite Ans.100(C) vertiginous means inclined to frequent
Ans.82(B) pristine means unspoiled or pure; sullied change, or inconstant, therefore constant
means spoiled or tarnished is the opposite
Ans.83(B) to concede means to yield; to withstand Ans.101(A) a parvenu is an upstart or a social climber;
means to successfully resist a wallflower is someone who refrains from
Ans.84(D) to placate means to soothe or calm; to socializing
enrage means to anger Ans.102(D) lapidarian means having elegance or
Ans.85(B) popular means frequently encountered or precision and comes from the word
accepted, or common, therefore lapidary, which means a cutter or engraver
uncommon is the opposite of precious stones, therefore inelegant is
Ans.86(C) felicitous means very well-suited or apt; the opposite
inopportune means inconvenient or not Ans.103(A) tireless means filled with energy;
well-suited exhausted means depleted of energy
Ans.87(A) austere means simple and unadorned; Ans.104(D) to wean means to detach from a
lavish means produced or expended in dependence; to addict means to make
abundance dependent
Ans.88(C) insipid means lacking in qualities that Ans.105(A) haste means hurry; delay means
interest or excite, therefore exciting is the postponement or procrastination
opposite Ans.106(A) malice means a desire to see another
Ans.89(D) a wastrel is someone who spends foolishly suffer; goodwill means desire to see
or self-indulgently; a miser is someone another benefit
who hoards his or her wealth Ans.107(B) to attain means to achieve or to gain,
Ans.90(B) temperate means moderate; inordinate therefore to lose is the most dissimilar
means excessive or immoderate Ans.108(D) to taint means to contaminate or corrupt;
Ans.91(C) nebulous means vague or indistinct, to purify means to make pure
therefore distinct is the opposite Ans.109(C) to belittle means to make seem little or
Ans.92(A) adroit means skillful in the use of the less; to magnify means to enlarge
hands, therefore clumsy is the opposite Ans.110(D) tedious means boring; pleasurable means
Ans.93(C) mite means a very small or insignificant enjoyable or delightful
part; bulk means the main or greater part Ans.111(C) frivolous means lacking seriousness,
Ans.94(D) supernal means coming from on high, or therefore serious is the most dissimilar
heavenly; infernal is a synonym for hellish Ans.112(C) plain means lacking in beauty; lovely
Ans.95(B) reprobate means morally debased or means beautiful
depraved; one meaning of elevated is to be Ans.113(A) one meaning of to denounce is to speak
on a moral or intellectual high plane out against; to covet means to wish for
Ans.96(A) specious means having a false look of enviously
truth or genuineness, therefore genuine is Ans.114(B) contrary means unwilling to accept
the opposite control or advice; agreeable means ready
or willing to agree

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
159
Ans.115(B) glower means a sullen brooding look, Ans.126(D) one meaning of ductile is easily led or
therefore smile is the most dissimilar influenced; one meaning of rigid is
Ans.116(D) to curtail means to cut short; to prolong inflexible, set in opinion
means to lengthen or extend Ans.127(B) asperity means roughness of surface or
Ans.117(B) eminent means prominent, or famous; manner; amenity means pleasantness or
obscure means not prominent, or unknown smoothness of manner
Ans.118(B) to abdicate means to renounce power or Ans.128(A) epicurean means having sensitive and
high office; to usurp means seize power or self-indulgent taste especially in food and
high office wine; ascetic means practicing self-denial
Ans.119(A) indolent means lazy; industrious means and austerity
hardworking Ans.129(A) one meaning of spare is lean; rotund
Ans.120(C) fortuitous means occurring by chance, or means round or fleshy
accidental; deliberate means resulting Ans.130(B) proclivity means inclination or
from careful consideration, or voluntary predisposition; antipathy means settled
Ans.121(D) to disparage means to speak slightingly aversion or dislike
about; to applaud means to express Ans.131(D) vituperation means bitter condemnation;
approval acclaim means praise
Ans.122(D) to interdict means to forbid; to sanction Ans.132(A) to gambol means to skip about in play; to
means to approve trudge means to march steadily and
Ans.123(C) mendacious means dishonest; veracious laboriously
means truthful or honest Ans.133(B) quixotic means foolishly impractical and
Ans.124(D) lassitude means weariness; vigor means marked by extravagantly romantic ideals;
strength or force staid means sedate and marked by prim
Ans.125(D) one meaning of verdant is green, self-restraint
especially with plant life; arid means dry, Ans.134(C) lachrymose means given to weeping, or
or lacking enough rainfall for agriculture morose; blithe means of a happy or
lighthearted character, or merry

160
Exam oriented day

Oriented Dayto today
Day
05
Exam oriented day to day Idioms And phrases
Idioms and Phrases
1. Acid Test 7. Explore all avenues

Meaning - Acid test proves the effectiveness of Meaning - Trying out every possibility to get a
something. result.
Example - I practiced hard at the dance Example - It is a difficult thing to do but if we
sessions but the acid test will come when the really want it done, we must explore all avenues.
master will assess our solo performances.
8. Fast track something
2. Cut the ground from under feet Meaning - Rating something higher on your
Meaning - When you cut the ground from under priority list to achieve the desired result.
someone's feet, you do something which Example - In view of the seriousness of the
weakens their position. crime, the civil society is pressing up on a fast
Example - When team India hit more than 350 track decision from the court.
runs in the ODI, they cut the ground from under
the opponent's feet. 9. Get ducks in a row
Meaning - Getting your things well organized.
3. Chase your tail Example - To ensure a successful product
Meaning - Spending a lot of time and energy launch, we must get our ducks in a row.
doing a lot of things but actually achieving
too little. 10. Get the show on the road
Example - He's been chasing his tail all week Meaning - Putting up a plan or idea into
collecting data but the report is still not ready action.
Example - Now that we have completed all the
4. Whole bag of tricks 7 legal formalities, let's get the show on the road.
Meaning - Means trying all the clever means to
achieve something. 11. Keep your fingers on the pulse -
Example - It was really difficult to find the Meaning - Being constantly aware of the most
information even after applying the whole bag recent developments.
of tricks. Example - An entrepreneur must keep his
fingers on the pulse of the market to be
5. Deliver the goods successful.
Meaning - Do what is expected or promised.
Example - I have given my car to a new mechanic 12. Mean business
for repair, hope he delivers the goods. Meaning - Being serious about what you
announce.
6. Fine-tooth comb Example - Now that all our policies about work
Meaning - Examining something carefully to are put up on intranet, we mean business.
not miss out any details
Example - The boss examined my report with a 13. Think on your feet
fine tooth comb before submitting it to the senior Meaning - Adjusting quickly to changes and
management. making fast decisions

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
161
Example - A good sales man must be able to 21. Plum job

think on his feet to close the deal. Meaning - Desirable position which is well-paid
and considered relatively easy.
14. Sail through something Example - This looks like a plum job but it has its
Meaning - Being successful in doing something own bunch of complications.
without difficulty.
Example - The presentation at the national 22. Shape up or ship out
conference was extremely important for the Meaning - This expression is used to warn
company. We sailed through it. someone that if they do not improve their ways,
they will have to leave their job.
15. Tricks of the trade Example - When Tom started neglecting the
Meaning - Clever or expert way of doing customers, he was told to shape up or ship out.
something.
Example - Being into the construction business 23. Golden handshake
for last 10 years, I know all tricks of the trade. Meaning - Big sum of money given to a person
when they leave a company or retire.
16. Not let grass grow under feet Example - The management of various PSUs
Meaning - Don't delay in getting something wanted to cut down on the man power. They
done. offered a golden hand shake to many of their
Example - As soon as he finished all the aged employees.
registration formalities, he put the house on sale.
He doesn't let the grass grow under his feet. 24. Separate sheep from goats
Meaning - Examining a group of people and
17. Work like a charm deciding their suitability
Meaning - Works very well or has the desired Example - Audition test was conducted by the
effect. director to separate sheep from goats.
Example - I had cloves from my sore throat and
they worked like a charm. 25. Waiting in the wings
Meaning - Waiting for an opportunity to take
18. Back-room boys action, mostly to replace someone else in their
Meaning - People who perform important work job.
but have no contact with the public. Example - The senior manager is going to retire
Example - Our back room boys deserve applause in next 2 months. Two of his juniors who are
for the success of this advertisement. waiting in the wings will have a fierce
competition
19. Dead wood
Meaning - People or things which are no longer 26. Eat, sleep and breathe something
useful or necessary. Meaning - Being so enthusiastic and passionate
Example - The Company bought in a lot of new about something that you think about it all the
computers. They no longer want the dead woods time.
Example - My son has recently learnt cycling. He
20. Get the axe eats, sleeps and breathes it now.
Meaning - lose the job.
Example - The projects team was undergoing a 27. With bells on
major restructuring, recruitment executives were Meaning - When you are delighted and eager to
the first to get the axe. go somewhere, you are said to go with bells on.
Example - The New Year party at the beach is
most awaited. I will be there - with bells on.

162
28. Fever pitch The survivors are just hanging on by their

Meaning - When a feeling is very intense and fingernails.
exciting, it is said to be at a fever pitch.
Example - His love for music had reached a fever 36. Pull out all the stops
pitch before he became a world known musician. Meaning - Doing everything you can to make
something successful.
29. Blood, sweat and tears Example - The deadline for the project is fast
Meaning - Something that requires a lot of effort arriving; we have pulled out all the stops for
and hard work. timely completion.
Example - Being the team of Indian cricket team
is not just a matter of luck for him, it is his blood, 37. Buckle down
sweat and tears which has got him here. Meaning - Doing some hard work with
determination and full attention.
30. Have on the brain Example - Getting through the exam for civil
Meaning - Thinking or talking about it all day services is possible when you have buckled down
long. yourself.
Example - He has just got engaged. Now, he has
his fiancé on his brain all the time. 38. First out of the gate
Meaning - Being the first one to make a start at
31. Fling yourself into something
Meaning - Doing something with a lot of energy Example - John and his friends had decided to
and enthusiasm. voice their opinion against the new economic
Example - Flinging himself into the exercise policy. John was the first one to be out of the
routine is the reason for his good physique. gate.
32. Raring to go 39. Going places

Meaning - Being very eager and enthusiastic Meaning - Exhibiting talent and ability that will
about the idea of doing something. lead to a successful future.
Example - My kids wish to see the animals. They Example - Rakesh was a performer at the school
are raring to go to zoo. sports club. It was obvious that he was going
places.
33. Xerox subsidy
Meaning - Using the office photocopier for 40. Have one's heart set on
personal use. Meaning - Possessing a determination to obtain
Example - The office now has a strict policy something.
about Xerox subsidy. Example - He has not become a renowned
cardiologist just by chance. He has his heart set
34. Get a grip on yourself on it after his father passed away with a cardiac
Meaning - Controlling your feelings to deal with a arrest.
situation.
Example - Reema saw her jewelry and cash 41. Make headway
missing from the almirah. After the initial shock, Meaning - Progress in what you are trying to
she got a grip on herself and called up the police. achieve.
Example - The police have made headway with
35. Hang on by fingernails their investigation in the terror attack on the city
Meaning - Continuing to do something in a very last Friday.
difficult situation.
Example - The market of watches has suffered a 42. Punch above one's weight
big loss after the arrival of mobile phones. Meaning - Performing beyond your ability.

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
163
Example - He was not the best swimmer around swimming competition by working hard and
but he could win the gold medal at the state punching above his weight in the finals.
43. Sink your teeth into 50. Bee in one's bonnet

Meaning - doing something with a lot of energy Meaning - Carrying an idea which constantly
and enthusiasm. occupies your thoughts.
Example - Marie joined the badminton coaching Example - She is not happy in Africa. She has a
classes. She sank her teeth into the practice bee in the bonnet about moving to Dubai.
sessions.
51. Deep down
44. Stand one's ground Meaning - Describing what a person really feels
Meaning - Maintaining your position deep inside or what is he like.
Example - He stood his ground in support of his Example - He appears to be indifferent to the
friend in spite of several family interferences. success or failure of his children but deep down
he is highly concerned.
45. Close to home
Meaning - A comment which is true and makes 52. Have your heart in the right place
you uncomfortable is close to home. Meaning - Refers to a person with good
Example - Tom's comment about his friend's intentions; even though the results are not that
unethical activities was quite close to home. He impressive.
looked quite embarrassed. Example - The dinner she had cooked wasn't the
best but she had her heart in the right place.
46. Carry the torch for
Meaning - Having strong feelings for someone 53. Groan inwardly
who cannot be yours. Meaning - Refers to a feeling where you want to
Example - He has been carrying a torch for express despair, disapproval or distress, but you
Mamta, who is now married to Nitin, since they keep quite.
studied together in college. Example - She was quite disappointed at the
sarcastic remark by her friend but looking at the
47. Cork up something situation she groaned inwardly.
Meaning - Failing to express your emotions.
Example - She did not let her grief pour out when 54. Beard the lion in his den
her father passed away. It’s not good for her to Meaning - Challenge someone in his own area.
cork up his feelings. Example - If he doesn't come to see me today, I'll
have to beard the lion in his den.
48. Cut to the quick
Meaning - Hurting someone deeply or offending 55. Keep a stiff upper lip
them. Meaning - Refers to a person who doesn't show
Example - Joe had worked for 10 years with all off his emotions.
his loyalty for his company. He was cut to the Example - He heard the news about his father's
quick when his boss held him responsible for the demise but kept a stiff upper lip.
theft.
56. Go bananas
49. Fish out of water Meaning - Refers to someone who behaves in a
Meaning - Feeling uncomfortable in unfamiliar crazy way out of emotions.
surroundings. Example - Your decision to go abroad for a year
Example - Being French, I felt like a fish out of will make your family go bananas.
water in the group of Japanese.

164
57. Lump in your throat 65. Speak volumes

Meaning - Refers to a tight feeling in your throat Meaning - Expresses a reaction without words.
because of an emotion like sadness or gratitude. Example - She came to pick me at the station at
Example - After all the hardships, I saw my son an odd hour. Her actions spoke volumes about
winning a gold medal today - I had a lump in my her brevity.
throat.
66. Not turn a hair
58. Hard as nails Meaning - Refers to not exhibiting any emotion
Meaning - Refers to a person without sentiments where it is expected.
and sympathy for anyone. Example - He didn't turn a hair even after his
Example - He has become as hard as a nail after office was raided by the CBI.
his brother was brutally murdered.
67. Reduce to tears
59. Lick one's wounds Meaning - Getting into tears because of some
Meaning - Trying to regain their confidence or one's behavior.
boost up the spirits after a defeat. Example - Her best friend stopped talking to her.
Example - Raja is licking his wounds after being This reduced her to tears.
dropped from the Indian Cricket Team.
68. In the bag
60. Proud as a peacock Meaning - Refers to a situation when you are
Meaning - Refers to an extremely proud person. sure that success is sure.
Example - His son is has finally become a doctor. Example - The wickets of opponent team fell
He is as proud as a peacock. down very fast, victory seemed to be in the bag at
the end of 25 over.
61. Tongue-tied
Meaning - Difficulty in expressing yourself 69. Blow up in face
because of nervousness or embarrassment. Meaning - Refers to a situation when a plan or
Example - As her prospective in laws came to see project suddenly fails.
her, she was completely tongue tied. Example - It was difficult to get a place in the
train to Mumbai. It blew up in the face when a
62. Look on the bright side train de-railed and blocked the track.
Meaning - View an unpleasant situation in a
positive light. 70. Bottom fell out
Example - You met with an accident but look on Meaning - Refers to a situation when a plan or
the bright side - you managed to get away just project fails.
with some bruises. Example - When the police announced a red alert
in the city, the bottom fell out of their plan to hold
63. Swallow one's pride a rally.
Meaning - Accepting something humiliating or
embarrassing 71. Cake not worth the candle
Example - When his son was caught cheating in Meaning - Refers to something in which result vs.
the exam. He had to swallow his pride and meet efforts are too less.
the principal. Example - He worked very hard to organize the
party but very few guests walked in. The cake
64. Makes your flesh crawl wasn't worth the candle.
Meaning - Something that makes you feel
disgusting or nervous. 72. Chance one's arm
Example - The sight of the accident made my Meaning - Deciding to do something even though
flesh crawl. the chances of success are very little.

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
165
Example - She knew there was little chance of 80. Make a go of

getting through the audition test but she decided Meaning - Succeeding in your enterprise.
to chance her arm. Example - With his hard work and dedication, he
has made a go of his new venture.
73. Come up roses Meaning - Successful end
results even though there may be some initial 81. Go to the dogs
hiccups. Meaning - Getting comparably less successful
Example - After initial hiccups, the project seems than before.
to be coming up roses. Example - With new corruption scams un-veiling
every day, the country is going to dogs.
74. Cook someone's goose
Meaning - Spoil other person's chances of 81. Go up in smoke
success. Meaning - Something that ends before getting a
Example - When the opponent team saw Indian result.
batsmen taking wicket after wicket, they realized Example - With a vigilant police force around the
that their goose was cooked. town, the plan of antisocial elements to cause
chaos went up in smoke
75. Cut one's own throat
Meaning - Doing something that will cause your 82. Live on the breadline
own failure. Meaning - Having very little income.
Example - Raghav is not sincere in the class Example - The partition of the country has left
since the beginning. He is cutting his own throat. many people on the breadline.
76. Foot in the door 83. Make or break

Meaning - Small but good start with a possibility Meaning - Circumstances causing total success
for a bright future or total ruin.
Example - With customers coming in, his new Example - The huge investments in this big
venture has got a foot in the door. project with make or break him.
77. Go great guns 84. Landslide victory

Meaning - Being successful. Meaning - Overwhelming victory received by a
Example - Ram's preparation for the final exams candidate of political party at an election.
is going great guns. He scored 90% marks in the Example - With a win of more of than 40% seats
practice test. in the first two hours of counting, they are
expecting a landslide victory.
78. Dead in the water
Meaning - Plan or project that has ceased to 85. Let slip through fingers
function and is not expected to be re-activated in Meaning - Failing to obtain or keep up a good
future. opportunity.
Example - Because of the revolt from the civil Example - This opportunity can be your
society, the plan to get the FDI in various sectors breakthrough in the industry. Don't let it slip
is now dead in the water. through your fingers.
79. Flying start 86. Rags to riches

Meaning - Something that is immediately Meaning - Becoming very rich while starting very
successful. poor.
Example - The film hit the box office with a flying Example - His innovative ideas in business got
start and collected the highest revenue on day 1. him from rags to riches.

166
87. On the pig's back Meaning - Refers to a person in successful and

well situation.
Example - The tourism in the state was on the Example - The economic survey proved that they
pig's back before the terror attacks hit the are the top dogs of the IT industry
capital.
95. Keep up appearances
88. Miss the boat Meaning - Maintaining an outward show of
Meaning - Failing to take advantage of an prosperity or well-being while hiding your
opportunity because of slow actions. difficulties
Example - I managed to get a discount of 10% Example - Keeping up the appearances was
but could not get an early bird offer. Reaching important for him to secure the new big projects.
late made me miss the boat.
96. Wooden spoon
89. Smash hit Meaning - Imaginary prize for the last person in a
Meaning - Refers to music, films which are very race.
successful. Example - We won a wooden spoon at the
Example - His music became a smash hit in a fashion show.
week's time.
97. Have the world by its tail
90. Murphy's law Meaning - Very successful person who can
Meaning - Means that if anything can go wrong, choose from a lot of opportunities.
it will. Example - Being the pioneers in the
Example - Let's be prepared for the worst but pharmaceutical industry, they are now having the
don't forget the Murphy's law. world by its tail.
91. Place in the sun 98. Live beyond means

Meaning - Finding a place in the sun refers to a Meaning - Spending more money than you can
position which provides you all the success and afford.
happiness you want in your life. Example - He has a habit of living beyond his
Example - Getting married into the renowned means. Most of the times, you will find him
business family in the town, she found a place in borrowing the money from his friends.
the sun.
99. Live in an ivory tower
92. Sink or swim Meaning - Living a lifestyle that saves you from
Meaning - fails or succeed. the real world problems.
Example - The test will decide if he sinks or Example - Her inexperience in dealing with tough
swims. situations is because she has lived in an ivory
tower
93. Champagne on a beer budget
Meaning - Wanting expensive things that you 100. Hit the road running
cannot afford. Meaning - Start performing immediately.
Example - She always buys things out of her Example - She was our old employee. She hit the
budget. She has developed a taste for road running when she joined us back.
champagne on beer budget.
101. A hot potato
94. Top dog Meaning: Something that is difficult or dangerous
Meaning - Very successful group, company, to deal with.
person, country etc. Example: Terrorism is a political hot potato in
Afghanistan.

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
167
102. A penny for your thoughts 111. Beat around the bush
Meaning: Way of asking what someone is Meaning: Avoid answering a question; not
thinking. speaking directly about the issue.
Example: After several minutes of silence he Example: Tell me what the problem is, stop
finally looked at her and said, “A penny for your beating around the bush.
thoughts, Lily.”
112. Best of both the worlds
103. Actions speak louder than words Meaning: Situation wherein one can enjoy two
Meaning: What you do is more significant than different opportunities.
what you say. Example: She had the privilege of a professor and
Example: He: I am sorry. I’ll try to be a better freedom of a student. She had the best of both
person henceforth. She: Actions speak louder worlds.
than words.
113. Best thing since sliced bread
104. Add insult to injury Meaning: A good idea or plan; an excellent new
Meaning: To make a bad situation worse. invention.
Example: Their basement was flooded, and then, Example: I love your idea. It’s the best thing since
to add insult to injury, a pipe burst in the kitchen. sliced bread.
105. An arm and a leg 114. Bite off more than you can chew
Meaning: A lot of money. Meaning: To take on a task that is way too big.
Example: It’s the best cruise in the world, but it Example: Our boss bit off more than she could
will cost you an arm and a leg. chew when she promised the client we’d have the
project ready by next week.
106. At the drop of a hat
Meaning: Immediately; without any hesitation 115. Blessing in disguise
Example: Ellie was always ready to go shopping Meaning: Something good that isn’t recognized
at the drop of a hat. at first.
Example: Ashok’s losing his job was a blessing in
107. Back to the drawing board disguise; it gave him an opportunity to pursue
Meaning: Start something all over again. higher studies.
Example: I failed this semester, but now I am
back to the drawing board. 116. Burn the midnight oil
Meaning: To stay up working, especially studying,
108. Ball is in your court. late at night.
Meaning: It is up to you to take the next step Example: She’s been burning the midnight oil for
Example: I’ve made my decision, now the ball is the last few months; her hard work will definitely
in your court. pay off in the coming exams.
109. Barking up the wrong tree 117. Don’t judge a book by its cover
Meaning: Looking in the wrong place; accusing Meaning: Don’t judge something primarily by its
the wrong person. appearance.
Example: He did not commit the crime, you’re Example: She: He doesn’t look intelligent. He:
barking up the wrong tree. You can’t judge a book by its cover.
110. Be glad to see the back of 118. Caught between two stools.
Meaning: Be glad to see someone leave. Meaning: When someone finds it difficult to
Example: I never liked her. I’ll be glad to see the choose between two alternatives.
back of her.

168
Example: He had committed to both and now Example: Why did you invest in business even
he’s caught between two stools. after failing in it in the past? Don’t give up the
day job!
119. Cross that bridge when you come to it.
Meaning: Deal with a problem if and when it 127. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket
becomes necessary. Meaning: Don’t focus all of your attention on one
Example: He: I think I need to hire a lawyer. She: thing or one area.
Cross that bridge when you come to it. Example: I know you love Harvard, but don’t put
all your eggs in one basket. Apply to other
120. Cry over spilled milk colleges too.
Meaning: To be unhappy about something that
cannot be undone. 128. Drastic times call for drastic measures
Example: It can’t he helped, don’t cry over spilled Meaning: When you’re extremely desperate you
milk. need to take drastic actions.
Example: Yes we had to let go of five of our
121. Curiosity killed the cat workers! Drastic times call for drastic measures.
Meaning: Being too curious can get you into
trouble. 129. Elvis has left the building
Example: Don’t ask about his divorce-curiosity Meaning: The show has come to an end. It’s all
killed the cat! over.
Example: We waited for another performance by
122. Cut corners the band but it looked like Elvis had left the
Meaning: To take shortcuts; when something is building.
done badly to save money.
Example: They always put quality first; they won’t 130. Every cloud has a silver lining
cut corners just to save money. Meaning: Be optimistic, even difficult times will
lead to better days.
123. Cut the mustard Example: I’m sorry your business is going badly,
Meaning: Perform satisfactorily; to succeed. but remember every cloud has a silver lining.
Example: We need a better catcher; this one just
doesn’t cut the mustard. 131. Far cry from
Meaning: A thing that is very different from
124. Devil’s advocate something else.
Meaning: To present a counter argument Example: What you did was a far cry from what
Example: The teacher always played devil’s you said you were going to do.
advocate to provoke discussion in the classroom.
132. Feel a bit under the weather
125. Don’t count your chickens before the eggs have Meaning: Feeling sick or unhealthy.
hatched. Example: I’m not coming to office today, I’m
Meaning: Don’t make plans for something that feeling a bit under the weather.
might not happen.
Example: You might not win the prize and you’ve 133. Give the benefit of doubt
already spent the money? Don’t count your Meaning: Believe someone’s statement without
chickens before the eggs have hatched. proof.
Example: I knew him since the past 5 years, so I
126. Don’t give up the day job gave him the benefit of doubt.
Meaning: You’re not very good at something. You
could definitely not do it professionally.

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
169
134. Hear through the grapevine Example: This is the last straw. I’m calling the
Meaning: To hear news from someone who heard police.
that news from someone else
Example: I heard through the grapevine that 143. Let sleeping dogs lie
she’s pregnant. Meaning: Leave something alone if it might
cause trouble.
135. Hit the nail on the head Example: I thought I would ask him if he wanted
Meaning: To do or say exactly the right thing. me to pay him back right away, but then I
Example: You’ve spotted the flaw, Robert. You’ve decided to let the sleeping dogs lie.
hit the nail on the head.
144. Let the cat out of the bag
136. Hit the sack/sheets/hay Meaning: To reveal a secret / To share
Meaning: To go to bed. information that was previously concealed.
Example: I’m exhausted. I think I’ll just hit the Example: It’s our secret. Don’t let the cat out of
sack. the bag.
137. In the heat of the moment 145. Make a long story short
Meaning: Overwhelmed by what’s happening at Meaning: Come to the point – leave out the
the moment. details.
Example: He doesn’t hate you. He just said that Example: And – to make the long story short – I
in the heat of the moment. never got back the money I lent him.
138. It takes two to tango 146. Method in the madness

Meaning: Both people involved in a bad situation Meaning: A purpose in what one is doing, even
are responsible for it. though it seems to be crazy.
Example: He blamed her for his lack of attention; Example: What I’m doing might seem strange,
well it takes two to tango. but there is method in my madness.
139. Jump on the bandwagon 147. Miss the boat

Meaning: Join a popular trend or activity. Meaning: To miss out on something.
Example: So many people are playing that game Example: Pay attention, John, or you’ll miss the
that I might as well jump on the bandwagon and boat and never learn algebra.
check it out.
148. Not a spark of decency
140. Keep something at bay Meaning: A person who has no manners
Meaning: Keep something away Example: Her brother has not a spark of decency.
Example: A good way to keep your anxiety at bay I don’t like the way he acts in public.
is through meditation.
149. Not playing with the full deck
141. Kill two birds with one stone Meaning: Someone who is mentally,
Meaning: To solve two problems at a time with psychologically or intellectually deficient.
just one action Example: He’s an intelligent guy, but with all that
Example: John practiced his words while peeling crazy things he does, I wonder if he’s not playing
the potatoes. He was killing two birds with one with the full deck.
stone.
150. On the ball
142. Last straw Meaning: When someone understands a situation
Meaning: The final problem in a series of well; attentive.
problems

170
Example: If you were on the ball, this wouldn’t Example: She was out on a limb with her project
have happened. – nobody supported her idea.
151. Off the record 159. Over the top

Meaning: Not made as an official or attributable Meaning: Totally excessive and not suitable for
statement; unofficial; confidential the occasion.
Example: He accepted his fault off the record and Example: Her sari was way over the top for a
hence it could not be used by the prosecutor in somber occasion like this.
the court.
160. Pen is mightier than the sword
152. Oldest trick in the book Meaning: Words and communication have a
Meaning: A well known and much used greater effect than war
trick/method Example: A simple handwritten note put an end
Example: Oldest trick in the book to treat cold to their week long cold war – pen is mightier than
and cough is drinking turmeric milk. the sword.
153. Off the cuff 161. Push one’s luck

Meaning: Without preparation; spontaneous Meaning: Trying to obtain more than what one
Example: She has a reputation of handling off the has (risk spoiling the current situation)
cuff interviews very well. Example: You have my permission to go to your
friends’ place but don’t push your luck by
154. Old habits die hard planning a night out.
Meaning: People find it difficult to change their
accustomed behavior. 162. Raining cats and dogs
Example: She retired last month, but still gets up Meaning: Raining heavily
at the same time in the morning. Old habits die Example: We’ll have to cancel the trip, it’s raining
hard. cats and dogs here.
155. Once in a blue moon 163. Reap the harvest

Meaning: Very rarely Meaning: Benefit or suffer as a direct result of
Example: Jill has a very rocky relationship with past actions.
her father. She speaks to him once in a blue Example: When he cleared IIT-JEE, he reaped the
moon. harvest of all his hard work.
156. Open the floodgates 164. Roll up one’s sleeves

Meaning: Release something that was previously Meaning: Get ready for hard work
under control Example: My brother said he would roll up his
Example: Economists fear that relaxing price sleeves and do whatever it takes to support the
control will open the floodgates to inflation. family.
157. Out of the blue 165. See eye to eye

Meaning: Happen unexpectedly Meaning: To be in agreement with
Example: She had given up all hope when out of Example: She was glad her roommate saw eye to
the blue she got a call from Harvard. eye on the choice of the flat.
158. Out on a limb 166. Shot in the dark

Meaning: Do something risky or something that Meaning: A complete guess (may or may not be
others do not support (leaving the doer in a close to the truth)
difficult situation)

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
171
Example: He didn’t know too much about Example: Jack finally took the plunge and opened
programming, so answering the interviewer’s a restaurant.
question was merely a shot in the dark.
175. Taste of one’s own medicine
167. Sink your teeth into Meaning: Treat people the same (unpleasant)
Meaning: Do something with a lot of energy and way they treated you
enthusiasm. Example: People who often disregard others
Example: Robin immediately sank his teeth into should be given a taste of their own medicine.
his new job.
176. Think the world of
168. Skating on thin ice Meaning: Admire someone very much
Meaning: Do or say something risky or something Example: Emily is a wonderful teacher – children
that could cause trouble. think the world of her.
Example: Don’t say anything that hurts her self
esteem or you could be skating on thin ice. 177. Tight spot
Meaning: A difficult situation
169. Stand in a good stead Example: The recent lawsuit has put the firm in a
Meaning: To be useful or be of good service to tight spot.
someone.
Example: Being fluent in German will stand you in 178. Tongue in cheek
a good stead when applying for an MS in Meaning: (of a remark) Supposed to be taken in
Germany. funny or ironic sense
Example: Her comment was taken more seriously
170. Strike while the iron is hot than intended. It was supposed to be tongue in
Meaning: To act at the right time cheek.
Example: The price of gold is at a 10 year low,
strike while the iron is hot and invest in it right 179. Turn a blind eye
away. Meaning: Pretend not to notice
Example: People tend to turn a blind eye to crime
171. Take a back seat against women.
Meaning: Choose to be less important in a role
Example: He finally decided to take a back seat 180. Walk on eggshells
and let his son run the family business. Meaning: Be extremely cautious about one's
words or actions
172. Take with a grain/pinch of salt Example: Celebrities are scrutinized by the media
Meaning: To doubt the accuracy of information for all their actions so they’re required to walk on
Example: A lot is said about the celebrities in eggshells.
media, but that information should be taken with
a grain of salt. 181. Want someone’s head on a platter
Meaning: Want someone to be punished severely
173. Take a nosedive Example: “I want that murderer’s head on a
Meaning: Rapid drop or decrease in value platter!”, said the Chief of police.
Example: The share prices took a nosedive when
there were rumors of the company’s CEO 182. Watch (someone) like a hawk
resigning. Meaning: Keep eyes on or watch carefully
Example: The examiner watched the test takers
174. Take the plunge like a hawk.
Meaning: Venture into something of one’s
interest despite the risks involved

172
183. Water under the bridge 191. Why keep a dog and bark for yourself
Meaning: Something bad that happened in the Meaning: If someone or something can do a job
past but is no longer important for you, why do it yourself?
Example: The couple had a serious fight in the Example: My sister has a printer, but she
past but that water is under the bridge now. continues to write notes manually. Why keep a
dog and bark for yourself?
184. Wave a dead chicken
Meaning: Do some useless, unhelpful thing in the 192. Wide off the mark
hope that it will solve a problem Meaning: Incorrect; Inadequate; Not what is
Example: Restarting the laptop once the expected
motherboard has crashed is like waving a dead Example: Her answer was wide off the mark; it
chicken. was impossible for me to give a better rating to
it.
185. Weak in the knees
Meaning: Barely able to stand because of 193. Wild goose chase
emotion, fear or illness Meaning: Waste time looking for something that
Example: The shock of being summoned by the has little chance of being found
Supreme Court made me go weak in the knees. Example: She tried to find out who the
anonymous caller was, but it turned out to be a
186. Wear many hats wild goose chase.
Meaning: Do many different types tasks
Example: We have such a small number of 194. Wipe the slate clean
employees that one is often supposed to wear Meaning: Make a fresh start
many hats. Example: When Mike was leaving home, he
decided to wipe the slate clean with his dad.
187. Weather the storm
Meaning: Succeed in surviving a difficult period 195. Wolf in sheep’s clothing
of time Meaning: Dangerous person pretending to be
Example: Given the current global market harmless
conditions, the Indian economy is weathering the Example: I thought she was a good person, but I
storm pretty well. realized that she was a wolf in a sheep’s clothing
when she backstabbed me during the selection
188. Wet behind the ears process.
Meaning: Inexperienced and immature
Example: Instead of a fulltime job, she should be 196. Work your fingers to the bone
offered an internship as she is still wet behind Meaning: Extreme hard work
the ears. Example: She totally deserves the success; she
worked her fingers to the bone when she started
189. Whale of a time out as a model.
Meaning: Enjoy a lot
Example: She had a whale of a time in Goa with 197. Worm’s eye view
her girl gang. Meaning: A perspective seen from below or from
a low or inferior position
190. Whistle in the dark Example: The trainees get only a worm’s eye view
Meaning: Pretend to be brave in a scary situation of the corporate structure.
Example: Upon being attacked, she blew a
whistle in the dark which surprised her attackers.

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
173
198. Worth one’s salt Example: I really need to wrap my brain around
Meaning: Good or competent at the job or this concept before the exam.
profession specified
Example: She deserves respect as she is totally 200. Zero in on something
worth her salt. Meaning: Focus all attention onto one thing
Example: The teacher immediately zeroed in on
199. Wrap one’s brain around the weaker students of the class.
Meaning: Concentrate on something in an effort
to understand

174
Comprehensive
Comprehensive
Comprehensive
Day Idioms
List
phrases of Day to
list
list of day to day Idioms And
Idioms && Phrases Phrases

of day to 06
06
day
An idiom is a phrase or an expression that has a figurative, or sometimes literal, meaning. Categorized as formulaic
language, an idiom's figurative meaning is different from the literal meaning. There are thousands of idioms,
occurring frequently in all languages. Here is the most comprehensive asked in various government job.
 A bit much: If something is excessive or  A penny saved is a penny earned: This means
annoying, it is a bit much. that we shouldn't spend or waste money, but
 A day late and a dollar short: (USA) If try to save it.
something is a day late and a dollar short, it is  A picture is worth a thousand words: A picture
too little, too late. can often get a message across much better
 A fool and his money are soon parted: This than the best verbal description.
idiom means that people who aren't careful  A poor man's something: Something or
with their money spend it quickly. 'A fool and someone that can be compared to something
his money are easily parted' is an alternative or someone else, but is not as good is a poor
form of the idiom. man's version; a writer who uses lots of puns
 A fool at 40 is a fool forever: If someone hasn't but isn't very funny would be a poor man's
matured by the time they reach forty, they Oscar Wilde.
never will.  A pretty penny: If something costs a pretty
 A little bird told me: If someone doesn't want to penny, it is very expensive.
say where they got some information from,  A problem shared is a problem halved: If you
they can say that a little bird told them. talk about your problems, it will make you feel
 A little learning is a dangerous thing: A small better.
amount of knowledge can cause people to think  A rising tide lifts all boats: This idiom, coined
they are more expert than they really are. Eg. by John F Kennedy, describes the idea that
He said he'd done a course on home electrics, when an economy is performing well, all people
but when he tried to mend my table lamp, he will benefit from it.
fused all the lights! I think a little learning is a  A rolling stone gathers no moss: People say
dangerous thing this to mean that that a go-getter type person
 A lost ball in the high weeds: A lost ball in the is more successful than a person not doing
high weeds is someone who does not know anything.
what they are doing, where they are or how to  A steal: If something is a steal, it costs much
do something. less than it is really worth.
 A OK: If things are A OK, they are absolutely  A still tongue keeps a wise head: Wise people
fine. don't talk much.
 A penny for your thoughts: This idiom is used  A watched pot never boils: Some things work
as a way of asking someone what they are out in their own time, so being impatient and
thinking about. constantly checking will just make things seem
longer.

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
175
 A1: If something is A1, it is the very best or  Across the pond: (UK) This idiom means on the
finest. other side of the Atlantic Ocean, used to refer
 Abide by a decision: If you abide by a decision, to the US or the UK depending on the speaker's
you accept it and comply with it, even though location.
you might disagree with it.  Act of God: An act of God is something like an
 Abject lesson: (India) An abject lesson serves earthquake or floods that human beings cannot
as a warning to others. (In some varieties of prevent or control.
English 'object lesson' is used.)  Actions speak louder than words: This idiom
 About as useful as a chocolate teapot: means that what people actually do is more
Someone or something that is of no practical important than what they say- people can
use is about as useful as a chocolate teapot. promise things but then fail to deliver.
 About face: If someone changes their mind  Adam's apple: The Adam's apple is a bulge in
completely, this is an about face. It can be used the throat, mostly seen in men.
when companies, governments, etc, change  Add fuel to the fire: If people add fuel to the fire,
their position on an issue. they make a bad situation worse.
 Above board: If things are done above board,  Add insult to injury: When people add insult to
they are carried out in a legal and proper injury, they make a bad situation even worse.
manner.  After your own heart: A person after your own
 Absence makes the heart grow fonder: This heart thinks the same way as you.
idiom means that when people are apart, their  Against the clock: If you do something against
love grows stronger. the clock, you are rushed and have very little
 Accident waiting to happen: If something is an time to do it.
accident waiting to happen, there's definitely  Against the grain: If doing something goes
going to be an accident or it's bound to go against the grain, you're unwilling to do it
wrong. ('Disaster waiting to happen' is also because it contradicts what you believe in, but
used.) you have no real choice.
 Ace up your sleeve: If you have an ace up your  Age before beauty: When this idiom is used, it
sleeve, you have something that will give you is a way of allowing an older person to do
an advantage that other people don't know something first, though often in a slightly
about. sarcastic way.
 Achilles' heel: A person's weak spot is their  Agony aunt: An agony aunt is a newspaper
Achilles' heel. columnist who gives advice to people having
 Acid test: An acid test is something that proves problems, especially personal ones.
whether something is good, effective, etc, or  Ahead of the pack: If you are ahead of the pack,
not. you have made more progress than your rivals.
 Across the board: If something applies to  Ahead of time: If something happens ahead of
everybody, it applies across the board. time, it happens early or before the set time.
 Across the ditch: (NZ) This idiom means on the  Albatross around your neck: An albatross
other side of the Tasman Sea, used to refer to around, or round, your neck is a problem
Australia or New Zealand depending on the resulting from something you did that stops
speaker's location. you from being successful.

176
 Alike as two peas: If people or things are as  All in your head: If something is all in your
alike as two peas, they are identical. head, you have imagined it and it is not real.
 Alive and kicking: If something is active and  All mod cons: If something has all mod cons, it
doing well, it is alive and kicking. (It can be has all the best and most desirable features. It
used for people too.) is an abbreviation of 'modern convenience' that
 All along: If you have known or suspected was used in house adverts.
something all along, then you have felt this  All mouth and trousers: (UK) Someone who's all
from the beginning. mouth and trousers talks or boasts a lot but
 All and sundry: This idiom is a way of doesn't deliver. 'All mouth and no trousers' is
emphasizing 'all', like saying 'each and every also used, though this is a corruption of the
one'. original.
 All bark and no bite: Someone who talks a lot,  All my eye and Peggy Martin: (UK) An idiom
but does nothing to back up their words-- like a that appears to have gone out of use but was
dog that barks at strangers, but won't actually prevalent in the English north Midlands of
bite. Staffordshire, Cheshire and Derbyshire from at
 All bark and no bite: When someone talks tough least the turn of the 20th century until the early
but really isn't, they are all bark and no bite. 1950s or so. The idiom's meaning is literally
 All bets are off: (USA) If all bets are off, then something said or written that is unbelievable,
agreements that have been made no longer rumor, over embellished, the result of malicious
apply. village gossip etc.
 All dressed up and nowhere to go: You're  All of the above: This idiom can be used to
prepared for something that isn't going to mean everything that has been said or written,
happen. especially all the choices or possibilities.
 All ears: If someone says they're all ears, they  All over the map: (USA) If something like a
are very interested in hearing about something. discussion is all over the map, it doesn't stick
 All eyes on me: If all eyes are on someone, then to the main topic and goes off on tangents.
everyone is paying attention to them.  All over the place: If something is completely
 All fingers and thumbs: If you're all fingers and disorganized or confused, it is all over the
thumbs, you are too excited or clumsy to do place.
something properly that requires manual  All over the shop: If something is completely
dexterity. 'All thumbs' is an alternative form of disorganized or confused, it is all over the shop.
the idiom.  All over the show: If something is all over the
 All hat, no cattle: (USA) When someone talks show, it's in a complete mess. An alternative to
big, but cannot back it up, they are all hat, no 'All over the shop'.
cattle.('Big hat, no cattle' is also used.)  All roads lead to Rome: This means that there
 All heart: Someone who is all heart is very kind can be many different ways of doing
and generous. something.
 All hell broke loose: When all hell breaks loose,  All set: If you're all set, you are ready for
there is chaos, confusion and trouble. something.
 All in a day's work: If something is all in a day's  All skin and bone: If a person is very
work, it is nothing special. underweight, they are all skin and bone, or
bones.

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177
 All square: If something is all square, nobody  Amen: Some use 'Amen' or 'Amen to that' as a
has an advantage or is ahead of the others. way of agreeing with something that has just
 All talk and no trousers: (UK) Someone who is been said.
all talk and no trousers, talks about doing big,  An apple a day keeps the doctor away: Eating
important things, but doesn't take any action. healthy food keeps you healthy.
 All that glitters is not gold: This means that  An old flame: An old flame is a person that
appearances can be deceptive and things that somebody has had an emotional, usually
look or sound valuable can be worthless. ('All passionate, relationship with, who is still looked
that glistens is not gold' is an alternative.) on fondly and with affection.
 All the rage: If something's all the rage, it is  An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of
very popular or fashionable at the moment. cure: This expression means that is is better to
 All the tea in China: If someone won't do try to avoid problems in the first place, rather
something for all the tea in China, they won't do than trying to fix them once they arise.
it no matter how much money they are offered.  And all that jazz: This idiom means that
 All your eggs in one basket: If you put all your everything related or similar is included.
eggs in one basket, you risk everything at once,  Angry as a bear: If someone is as angry as a
instead of trying to spread the risk. (This is bear, they are very angry.('Angry as a bear with
often used as a negative imperative- 'Don't put a sore foot' is also used.)
all your eggs in one basket'. 'Have your eggs in  Angry as a bull: If someone is as angry as a
one basket' is also used.) bull, they are very angry.
 All's fair in love and war: This idiom is used to  Answers on a postcard: This idiom can be used
say that where there is conflict; people can be to suggest that the answer to something is very
expected to behave in a more vicious way. obvious or that the person would really like to
 All's well that ends well: If the end result is hear what people think.
good, then everything is good.  Ants in your pants: If someone has ants in their
 All-singing, all-dancing: If something's all- pants, they are agitated or excited about
singing, all-dancing, it is the latest version with something and can't keep still.
the most up-to-date features.  Any port in a storm: This means that in an
 Alter ego: An alter ego is a very close and emergency any solution will do, even one that
intimate friend. It is a Latin phrase that literally would normally be unacceptable.
means 'other self'.  Any Tom, Dick or Harry: If something could be
 Always a bridesmaid, never a bride: If someone done by any Tom, Dick or Harry, it could be
is always a bridesmaid, never a bride, they done by absolutely anyone.
never manage to fulfill their ambition- they get  Apple of your eye: Something or, more often,
close, but never manage the recognition, etc, someone that is very special to you is the
they crave. 'apple of your' eye.
 Ambulance chaser: A lawyer who encourages  Apron strings: A man who is tied to a woman's
people who have been in accidents or become apron strings is excessively dependent on her,
ill to sue for compensation is an ambulance especially when it is his mother's apron strings.
chaser.  Argue the toss: (UK) If you argue the toss, you
refuse to accept a decision and argue about it.

178
 Arm and a leg: If something costs an arm and a  As one man: If people do something as one
leg, it is very expensive. man, then they do it at exactly the same time or
 Armchair critic: An armchair critic is someone in complete agreement.
who offers advice but never shows that they  As the actress said to the bishop: (UK) This
could actually do any better. idiom is used to highlight a sexual reference,
 Armed to the teeth: If people are armed to the deliberate or accidental.
teeth, they have lots of weapons.  As the crow flies: This idiom is used to describe
 Around the clock: If something is open around the shortest possible distance between two
the clock, it is open 24 hours a day. For places.
example, an airport is open around the clock.  As you sow, so shall you reap: This means that
 Arrow in the quiver: An arrow in the quiver is a if you do bad things to people, bad things will
strategy or option that could be used to achieve happen to you, or good things if you do good
your objective. things.
 As a rule: If you do something as a rule, then  Asleep at the switch: If someone is asleep at
you usually do it. the switch, they are not doing their job or taking
 As cold as ice: This idiom can be used to their responsibilities very carefully. 'Asleep at
describe a person who does not show any the wheel' is an alternative.
emotion.  Asleep at the wheel: If someone is asleep at the
 As cold as stone: If something is as cold as wheel, they are not doing their job or taking
stone, it is very cold. If a person is as cold as their responsibilities very carefully. 'Asleep at
stone, they are unemotional. the switch' is an alternative.
 As cool as a cucumber: If someone is as cool  At a drop of a dime: (USA) If someone will do
as a cucumber, they don't get worried by something at the drop of a dime, they will do it
anything. instantly, without hesitation.
 As mad as a hatter: This simile means that  At a loose end: (UK) If you are at a loose end,
someone is crazy or behaves very strangely. In you have spare time but don't know what to do
the past many people who made hats went with it.
insane because they had a lot of contact with  At a snail's pace: If something moves at a
mercury. snail's pace, it moves very slowly.
 As much use as a chocolate fire-guard: A fire-  At arm's length: (India) If something is at arm's
guard is used in front of a fireplace for safety. A length, it is very close to you.
chocolate fire-guard is of no use. An alternative  At arm's length: Keep somebody at arm's
to 'As much use as a chocolate teapot'. length means not allowing somebody to be
 As much use as a chocolate teapot: Something become to friendly with you or close to you.
that is as much use as a chocolate teapot is not  At cross purposes: When people are at cross
useful at all. purposes, they misunderstand each other or
 As much use as a handbrake on a canoe: This have different or opposing objectives.
idiom is used to describe someone or  At daggers drawn: If people are at daggers
something as worthless or pointless. drawn, they are very angry and close to
 As neat as a new pin: This idiom means tidy violence.
and clean.

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
179
 At death's door: If someone looks as if they are  At the top of the list: If something is at the top
at death's door, they look seriously unwell and of the list, it is of highest priority, most
might actually be dying. important, most urgent, or the next in one's line
 At each other's throats: If people are at each of attention.
other's throats, they are fighting, arguing or  At the top of your voice: If you talk, shout or
competing ruthlessly. sing at the top of your voice, you do it as loudly
 At full tilt: If something is at full tilt, it is going as you can.
or happening as fast or as hard as possible.  At your wits' end: If you are at your wits' end,
 At large: If a criminal is at large, they have not you have no idea what to do next and are very
been found or caught. frustrated.
 At loggerheads: If people are at loggerheads,  At your wit's end: If you're at your wit's end, you
they are arguing and can't agree on anything. really don't know what you should do about
 At loose ends: (USA) If you are at a loose end, something, no matter how hard you think about
you have spare time but don't know what to do it.
with it.  Average Joe: An average Joe is an ordinary
 At odds: If you are at odds with someone, you person without anything exceptional about
cannot agree with them and argue. them.
 At sea: If things are at sea, or all at sea, they  Avowed intent: If someone makes a solemn or
are disorganized and chaotic. serious promise publicly to attempt to reach a
 At the bottom of the totem pole: (USA) If certain goal, this is their avowed intent.
someone is at the bottom of the totem pole,  Away with the fairies: If someone is away with
they are unimportant. Opposite is at the top of the fairies, they don't face reality and have
the totem pole. unrealistic expectations of life.
 At the coalface: If you work at the coalface, you  Awe inspiring: Something or someone that is
deal with the real problems and issues, rather awe inspiring amazes people in a slightly
than sitting in a office discussing things in a frightening but positive way.
detached way.  AWOL: AWOL stands for "Absent without
 At the drop of a hat: If you would do something Leave", or "Absent without Official Leave".
at the drop of a hat, you'd do it immediately. Originally a military term, it is used when
 At the end of the day: This is used to mean 'in someone has gone missing without telling
conclusion' or 'when all is said and done'. anyone or asking for permission.
 At the end of your rope: (USA) If you are at the  Axe to grind: If you have an axe to grind with
end of your rope, you are at the limit of your someone or about something, you have a
patience or endurance. grievance, resentment and you want to get
 At the end of your tether: (UK) If you are at the revenge or sort it out. In American English, it is
end of your tether, you are at the limit of your 'ax'.
patience or endurance.  Babe in arms: A babe in arms is a very young
 At the fore: In a leading position child, or a person who is very young to be
 At the top of my lungs: If you shout at the top holding a position.
of your lungs, you shout as loudly as you  Babe in the woods: A babe in the woods is a
possibly can. naive, defenseless, young person.

180
 Baby boomer: (USA) A baby boomer is  Bad hair day: If you're having a bad hair day,
someone born in the years after the end of the things are not going the way you would like or
Second World War, a period when the had planned.
population was growing very fast.  Bad mouth: (UK) When you are bad mouthing,
 Back burner: If an issue is on the back burner, it you are saying negative things about someone
is being given low priority. or something.('Bad-mouth' and 'badmouth' are
 Back foot: (UK) If you are on your back foot, also used.)
you are at a disadvantage and forced to be  Bad shape: If something's in bad shape, it's in
defensive of your position. bad condition. If a person's in bad shape, they
 Back number: Something that's a back number are unfit or unhealthy.
is dated or out of fashion.  Bad taste in your mouth: If something leaves
 Back the wrong horse: If you back the wrong you with a bad taste in your mouth, you feel
horse, you give your support to the losing side there is something wrong or bad about it.
in something.  Bad workers always blame their tools: "A bad
 Back to back: If things happen back to back, worker always blames their tools" - If
they are directly one after another. somebody does a job badly or loses in a game
 Back to square one: If you are back to square and claims that they were let down by their
one, you have to start from the beginning equipment, you can use this to imply that this
again. was not the case.
 Back to the drawing board: If you have to go  Bag of bones: If someone is a bag of bones,
back to the drawing board, you have to go back they are very underweight.
to the beginning and start something again.  Bag of nerves: If someone is a bag of nerves,
 Back to the salt mine: If someone says they they are very worried or nervous.
have to go back to the salt mine, they have to  Baker's dozen: A Baker's dozen is 13 rather
return to work. than 12.
 Back to the wall: If you have your back to the  Bald as a coot: A person who is completely bald
wall, you are in a difficult situation with very is as bald as a coot.
little room for maneuver.  Ball is in your court: If the ball is in your court, it
 Backseat driver: A backseat driver is an is up to you to make the next decision or step.
annoying person who is fond of giving advice to  Ballpark figure: A ballpark figure is a rough or
the person performing a task or doing approximate number (guesstimate) to give a
something, especially when the advice is either general idea of something, like a rough
wrong or unwelcome. estimate for a cost, etc.
 Bad Apple: A person who is bad and makes  Banana republic: Banana republic is a term
other bad is a bad apple. used for small countries that are dependent on
 Bad blood: If people feel hate because of things a single crop or resource and governed badly
that happened in the past, there is bad blood by a corrupt elite.
between them.  Banana skin: (UK) A banana skin is something
 Bad egg: A person who cannot be trusted is a that is an embarrassment or causes problems.
bad egg. Good egg is the opposite.  Bandit territory: An area or an industry,
profession, etc, where rules and laws are
ignored or flouted is bandit territory.

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 Baptism of fire: A baptism of fire was a  Be all ears: If you are all ears, you are very
soldier's first experience of shooting. Any eager to hear what someone has to say.
unpleasant experience undergone, usually  Be careful what you wish for: If you get things
where it is also a learning experience is a that you desire, there may be unforeseen and
baptism of fire. unpleasant consequences.('Be careful what you
 Bar fly: A bar fly is a person who spends a lot of wish for, lest it come true.' and 'Be careful what
time drinking in different bars and pubs. you wish for; you may receive it.' are also
 Bare your heart: If you bare your heart to used.)
someone, you tell them you personal and  Be on the pig's back: If you're on the pig's back,
private feelings. ('Bare your soul' is an you're happy / content / in fine form.
alternative form of the idiom.)  Be out in left field: (USA) To be out in left field
 Barefaced liar: A barefaced liar is one who is not to know what's going on. Taken from
displays no shame about lying even if they are baseball, when youngsters assign less capable
exposed. players to the outfield where the ball is less
 Bark is worse than their bite: Someone who's likely to be hit by a young player. In business,
bark is worse than their bite may well get angry one might say, 'Don't ask the new manager;
and shout, but doesn't take action. he's out in left field and doesn't know any
 Barking up the wrong tree: If you are barking up answers yet.'
the wrong tree, it means that you have  Be that as it may: Be that as it may is an
completely misunderstood something or are expression which means that, while you are
totally wrong. prepared to accept that there is some truth in
 Barkus is willing: This idiom means that what the other person has just said, it's not
someone is willing to get married. going to change your opinions in any
 Barrack-room lawyer: (UK) A barrack-room significant manner.
lawyer is a person who gives opinions on things  Be true blue: If a person/object/situation is
they are not qualified to speak about. considered to be 'true blue', it is considered
 Barrel of laughs: If someone's a barrel of genuine.
laughs, they are always joking and you find  Be up the spout: (UK) If a woman is up the
them funny. spout, she is pregnant.
 Basket case: If something is a basket case, it is  Bean counter: A bean counter is an accountant.
so bad that it cannot be helped.  Bear fruit: If something bears fruit, it produces
 Bat an eyelid: If someone doesn't bat an eyelid, positive results.
they don't react or show any emotion when  Bear market: A bear market is a period when
surprised, shocked, etc. investors are pessimistic and expect finanical
 Batten down the hatches: If you batten down losses so are more likely to sell than to buy
the hatches, you prepare for the worst that shares.
could happen to you.  Bear the brunt: People who bear the brunt of
 Battle of nerves: A battle of nerves is a something endure the worst of something bad.
situation where neither side in a conflict or  Beard the lion in his own den: If you confront a
dispute is willing to back down and is waiting powerful or dangerous rival on their territory,
for the other side to weaken. ('A war of nerves' you are bearding the lion in his own den.
is an alternative form.)

182
 Beat about the bush: If someone doesn't say  Bee in your bonnet: If someone is very excited
clearly what they mean and try to make it hard about something, they have a bee in their
to understand, they are beating about (around) bonnet.
the bush.  Beeline for: If you make a beeline for a place,
 Beat someone to the draw: (USA) If you beat you head there directly.
someone to the draw, you do something before  Been in the wars: (UK) If someone has been in
they do. the wars, they have been hurt or look as if they
 Beat swords into ploughshares: If people beat have been in a struggle.
swords into ploughshares, they spend money  Beer and skittles: (UK) People say that life is
on humanitarian purposes rather than not all beer and skittles, meaning that it is not
weapons. (The American English spelling is about self-indulgence and pleasure.
'plowshares')  Bee's Knees: If something is the bee's knees,
 Beat the daylights out of someone: If someone it's outstanding or the best in its class.
beats the daylights out of another person, they  Before the ink is dry: If people make an
hit them repeatedly. ('Knock' can also be used agreement or contract and then the situation
and it can be made even stronger by saying 'the changes very quickly, it changes before the ink
living daylights'.) is dry.
 Beat to the punch: If you beat someone to the  Before you can say Jack Robinson: The term
punch, you act before them and gain an Jack Robinson represents 'a short amount of
advantage. time'. When you do something before you can
 Beating a dead horse: (USA) If someone is say Jack Robinson, you do it very quickly.
trying to convince people to do or feel  Beg the question: In philosophy "to beg the
something without any hope of succeeding, question" is to assume something to be true
they're beating a dead horse. This is used when that has not yet been proved. I have seen the
someone is trying to raise interest in an issue idiom also to mean that a question is crying out
that no-one supports anymore; beating a dead to be asked.
horse will not make it do any more work.  Beggars can't be choosers: This idiom means
 Beauty is in the eye of the beholder: Beauty is that people who are in great need must accept
in the eye of the beholder means that different any help that is offered, even if it is not a
people will find different things beautiful and complete solution to their problems.
that the differences of opinion don't matter  Behind bars: When someone is behind bars,
greatly. they are in prison.
 Beauty is only skin deep: This idiom means that  Behind closed doors: If something happens
appearances can be deceptive and something away from the public eye, it happens behind
that seems or looks good may turn out to be closed doors.
bad.  Behind someone's back: If you do something
 Beck and call: Someone who does everything behind someone's back, you do it without
for you, no matter when you ask, is at your beck telling them.
and call.  Behind the times: Someone that is behind the
 Bedroom eyes: Someone with bedroom eyes times is old-fashioned and has ideas that are
has a sexy look in their eyes. regarded as out-dated.

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
183
 Believe in the hereafter: A belief in the hereafter  Best of a bad bunch: The best that could be
is a belief in the afterlife, or life after death. It is, obtained from a list of options that were not
therefore, associated with religions and the exactly what was required.
soul's journey to heaven or to hell, whichever  Best of both worlds: If you have the best of
way being just deserts for the person based on both worlds, you benefit from different things
how they led their life. that do not normally go together.
 Bells and whistles: Bells and whistles are  Best thing since sliced bread: If something is
attractive features that things like computer the best thing since sliced bread, it is excellent.
programs have, though often a bit unnecessary. ('The greatest thing since sliced bread' is also
 Bells on: (USA) To be somewhere with bells on used.)
means to arrive there happy and delighted to  Bet your bottom dollar: (USA) If you can bet
attend. your bottom dollar on something, you can be
 Belly up: If things go belly up, they go badly absolutely sure about it.
wrong.  Better late than never: This idiom suggests that
 Below par: If something isn't up to standard, or doing something late is better than not doing it
someone isn't feeling or doing very well, they at all.
are below par.  Better safe than sorry: This idiom is used to
 Below the belt: If someone says something that recommend being cautious rather than taking a
is cruel or unfair, it is below the belt, like the risk.
illegal punches in boxing.  Better than a stick in the eye: If something is
 Belt and braces: (UK) Someone who wears belt better than a stick in the eye, it isn't very good,
and braces is very cautious and takes no risks. but it is better than nothing.
 Belt and suspenders: (USA) Someone who  Better the devil you know: This is the shortened
wears belt and suspenders is very cautious and form of the full idiom, 'better the devil you know
takes no risks. than the devil you don't', and means that it is
 Bend over backwards: If someone bends over often better to deal with someone or something
backwards, they do everything they can to help you are familiar with and know, even if they are
someone. not ideal, than take a risk with an unknown
 Bend someone's ear: To bend someone's ear is person or thing.
to talk to someone about something for a long-  Between a rock and a hard place: If you are
enough period that it becomes tiresome for the caught between a rock and a hard place, you
listener. are in a position where you have to choose
 Benjamin of the family: The Benjamin of the between unpleasant alternatives, and your
family is the youngest child. choice might cause you problems; you will not
 Beside the point: If something is beside the be able to satisfy everyone.
point, it's not relevant to the matter being  Between the devil and the deep blue sea: If you
discussed or considered. are caught between the devil and the deep blue
 Beside themselves: If people are beside sea, you are in a dilemma; a difficult choice.
themselves, they are very worried or emotional  Between the lines: If you read between the
about something. lines, you find the real message in what you're
 Beside yourself: If you are beside yourself, you reading or hearing, a meaning that is not
are extremely angry.

184
available from a literal interpretation of the there are more important things for you to do,
words. you have bigger fish to fry.
 Between you and me and the cat's whiskers:  Bird in the hand is worth two in the bush: 'A
This idiom is used when telling someone bird in the hand is worth two in the bush' is a
something that you want them to keep secret. proverb meaning that it is better to have
 Beyond a shadow of a doubt: If something's something that is certain than take a risk to get
beyond a shadow of a doubt, then absolutely no more, where you might lose everything.
doubts remain about it.  Bird-brain: Someone who has a bird-brain, or is
 Beyond belief: If people behave in such a way bird-brained, is stupid.
that you find it almost impossible to accept  Birds and the bees: If a child is taught about the
that they actually did it, then you can say that birds and the bees, they are taught about sex.
their behavior was beyond belief.  Bird's eye view: If you have a bird's eye view of
 Beyond our ken: If something's beyond your something, you can see it perfectly clearly.
ken, it is beyond your understanding.  Birds of a feather flock together: This idiom
 Beyond the pale: If something's beyond the means that people with similar interests will
pale, it is too extreme to be acceptable morally stick together.
or socially.  Birthday suit: If you are in your birthday suit,
 Big Apple: (USA) The Big Apple is New York. you are naked.
 Big bucks: If someone is making big bucks,  Bit between your teeth: If you take or have the
they are making a lot of money. bit between your teeth, you take or have control
 Big cheese: The big cheese is the boss. of a situation. (Bit = piece of metal in a horse's
 Big Easy: (USA) The Big Easy is New Orleans, mouth)
Louisiana  Bit part: If someone has a small or unimportant
 Big fish in a small pond: A big fish in a small role in something, they have a bit part.
pond is an important person in a small place or  Bit player: A bit player has a small or
organization. unimportant role in something.
 Big fish: An important person in a company or  Bite off more than you can chew: If you bite off
an organization is a big fish. more than you can chew, you take on more
 Big hitter: A big hitter is someone who responsibilities than you can manage. 'Don't
commands a lot of respect and is very bite off more than you can chew' is often used
important in their field. to advise people against agreeing to more than
 Big nose: If someone has a big nose, it means they can handle.
they are excessively interested in everyone  Bite someone's head off: If you bite someone's
else's business. head off, you criticize them angrily.
 Big picture: The big picture of something is the  Bite the bullet: If you have to bite the bullet, you
overall perspective or objective, not the fine have to accept or face something unpleasant
detail. because it cannot be avoided.
 Big time: This can be used to with the meaning  Bite the dust: This is a way of saying that
'very much'- if you like something big time, you somebody has died, especially if they are killed
like it a lot. violently like a soldier in battle.
 Bigger fish to fry: If you aren't interested in  Bite your lip: If you have to bite your lip, you
something because it isn't important to you and have to make a conscious effort not to react or

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to keep quiet about something that displeases  Blind as a bat: If you are in total darkness and
you. can't see anything at all, you are as blind as a
 Bite your tongue: If you bite your tongue, you bat.
refrain from speaking because it is socially or  Blind leading the blind: When the blind are
otherwise better not to. leading the blind, the people in charge of
 Bits and bobs: Bits and bobs are small, remnant something don't know anything more than the
articles and things- the same as odds and people they are in charge of, when they should
ends. have greater knowledge.
 Bitter end: If you do something to the bitter  Blink of an eye: If something happens in the
end, you do it to the very end, no matter how blink of an eye, it happens so fast it is almost
unsuccessful you are. impossible to notice it.
 Bitter pill to swallow: A bitter pill to swallow is  Blood and thunder: An emotional speech or
something that is hard to accept. performance is full of blood and thunder.
 Black and white: When it is very clear who or  Blood from a turnip: It is impossible to get
what is right and wrong, then the situation is something from someone if they don't have it,
black and white. just as you cannot get blood from a turnip.
 Black as New gate’s knocker: (UK) If things are  Blood is thicker than water: This idiom means
as black as Newgate's knocker, they are very that family relationships are stronger than
bad. Newgate was an infamous prison in others.
England, so its door knocker meant trouble.  Blood is worth bottling: (AU) If an Australian
 Black hole: If there is a black hole in financial says to you "Your blood is worth bottling",
accounts, money has disappeared. he/she is complimenting or praising you for
 Black sheep: Someone who is the black sheep doing something or being someone very
doesn't fit into a group or family because their special.
behaviour or character is not good enough.  Blood out of a stone: If something is like
 Blackball: If you vote against allowing someone getting blood out of a stone, it is very difficult
to be a member of an organisation or group, indeed.
you are blackballing him or her.  Blood, sweat and tears: If something will take
 Blank cheque: If you are given a blank cheque, blood, sweat and tears, it will be very difficult
you are allowed to use as much money as you and will require a lot of effort and sacrifice.
need for a project.  Blow a gasket: If you blow a gasket, you get
 Bleeding edge: Similar to 'cutting edge', this very angry.
implies a technology or process that is at the  Blow by blow: A blow-by-blow description
forefront or beyond current practices. However, gives every detail in sequence.
because it is unproven, it is often dangerous to  Blow hot and cold: If you blow hot and cold on
use (hence the 'bleeding'). an idea, your attitude and opinion keeps
 Bleeding heart: A bleeding heart is a person changing; one minute you are for it, the next
who is excessively sympathetic towards other you are against.
people.  Blow me down: People say '(well,) blow me
 Blessing in disguise: If some bad luck or down' when you have just told them something
misfortune ultimately results in something surprising, shocking or unexpected. ('Blow me
positive, it's a blessing in disguise. down with a feather' is also used.)

186
 Blow off steam: (USA) If you blow off steam, how other people will respond or about being
you express your anger or frustration. caught.
 Blow out of the water: If something, like an  Bolt from the blue: If something happens
idea, is blown out of the water, it is destroyed or unexpectedly and suddenly, it is a bolt from the
defeated comprehensively. blue.
 Blow smoke: (USA) If people blow smoke, the  Bone of contention: If there is an issue that
exaggerate or say things that are not true, always causes tension and arguments, it is a
usually to make themselves look better. bone of contention.
 Blow the cobwebs away: If you blow the  Bone to pick: If you have a bone to pick with
cobwebs away, you make sweeping changes to someone, you are annoyed about something
something to bring fresh views and ideas in. they have done and want to tell them how you
 Blow the whistle: If somebody blows the feel.
whistle on a plan, they report it to the  Boot is on the other foot: When the boot's on
authorities. the other foot, a person who was in a position
 Blow your mind: Something that will blow your of weakness is now in a position of strength.
mind is something extraordinary that will  Born to the purple: Someone who is born to the
amaze you beyond explanation. purple is born in a royal or aristocratic family.
 Blow your own horn: If you blow your own horn, ("Born in the purple" is also used.)
you boast about your achievements and  Born with a silver spoon in your mouth: If you
abilities. ('Blow your own trumpet' is an are born with a silver spoon in your mouth, you
alternative form.) are born into a rich family.
 Blow your own trumpet: If someone blows their  Both ends meet: If you make both ends meet,
own trumpet, they boast about their talents and you live off the money you earn and don't go
achievements. ('Blow your own horn' is an into debt.
alternative form.)  Bottom line: In accountancy, the bottom line is
 Blow your stack: If you blow your stack, you net income, and is used idiomatically to mean
lose your temper. the conclusion.
 Blow your top: If someone blows their top, they  Bounce off the walls: If someone's bouncing off
lose their temper. the walls, they are very excited about
 Blue blood: Someone with blue blood is royalty. something.
 Blue-eyed boy: Someone's blue-eyed boy is  Bouquet of orchids: Id someone deserves a
their favorite person. bouquet of orchids; they have done something
 Bob's your uncle: (UK) This idiom means that worthy of praise.
something will be successful: Just tell him that  Box and dice: Box and dice means everything.
I gave you his name and Bob's your uncle- he'll  Box clever: (UK) If you box clever, you use your
help you. intelligence to get what you want, even if you
 Body politic: A group of people organised under have to cheat a bit.
a single government or authority (national or  Boxing and coxing: If people are boxing and
regional) is a body politic. coxing, they are sharing responsibilities so that
 Bold as brass: Someone who is as bold as one of them is working while the other isn't. It
brass is very confident and not worried about can also be used when couples are sharing a

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187
house, but their relationship has broken down  Breathe down your neck: If someone follows
and when one is at home, the other stays out. you or examines what you're doing very closely,
 Boys in blue: The boys in blue are the police. they are breathing down your neck.
 Brain surgery: If something is not brain surgery,  Breathe your last: When you breathe your last,
it isn't very complicated or difficult to you die.
understand or master.  Bridge the gap: If you bridge the gap, you make
 Brass monkey: If it's brass monkey weather, or a connection where there is a great difference.
cold enough to freeze the balls off a brass  Bright as a button: A person who is as bright as
monkey, it is extremely cold. a button is very intelligent or smart.
 Brass neck: (UK) Someone who has the brass  Brighten up the day: If something brightens up
neck to do something has no sense of shame your day, something happens that makes you
about what they do. feel positive and happy all day long.
 Brass tacks: If you get down to brass tacks, you  Bright-eyed and bushy-tailed: If someone's
get down to the real business. bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, they are full of
 Bread and butter: Bread and butter issues are energy and enthusiasm.
ones that affect people directly and in a very  Bring a knife to a gunfight: If someone brings a
important way. knife to a gunfight, they are very badly prepared
 Breadwinner: Used to describe the person that for something.
earns the most money. For example - She's the  Bring home the bacon: A person who brings
breadwinner in the family. home the bacon earns the money that a family
 Break a leg: This idiom is a way of wishing live on.
someone good luck.  Bring someone to book: If somebody is brought
 Break even: If you break even, you don't make to book, they are punished or made to account
any money, but you don't lose any either. for something they have done wrong.
 Break ground: If you break ground, or break  Bring someone to heel: If you bring someone to
new ground, you make progress, taking things heel, you make them obey you.('Call someone
into a new area or going further than anyone to heel' is also used.)
has gone before. 'Ground-breaking' is used an  Bring the house down: Something that brings
adjective. the house down is acclaimed and praised
 Break the back of the beast: If you break the vigorously.
back of the beast, you accomplish a challenge.  Bring to the table: If you bring something to the
 Break the ice: When you break the ice, you get table, you make a contribution or an offer in a
over any initial embarrassment or shyness discussion or negotiation..
when you meet someone for the first time and  Broad church: If an organization is described as
start conversing. broad church, it is tolerant and accepting of
 Break your duck: (UK) If you break your duck, different opinions and ideas.
you do something for the first time.  Broad strokes: If something is described or
 Break your heart: If someone upsets you defined with broad stokes, then only an outline
greatly, they break your heart, especially if they is given, without fine details.
end a relationship.  Broke as a joke and it isn’t funny: This idiom in
my opinion describes how it's not funny to be
without a cent and just uses broke and joke as

188
rhyming words that help explain this idiom a lot result of something you did, making you less
better. likely to do it again.
 Brown nose: When someone tries to make  Burning question: A burning question is
themselves popular with somebody, usually in something we all want to know about.
a position of authority, especially by flattering  Burst at the seams: To be filled to or beyond
them, they are brown nosing. normal capacity: This room will be bursting at
 Brownie points: If you try to earn Brownie the seams when all the guests arrive.
points with someone, you do things you know  Bury the hatchet: If you bury the hatchet, you
will please them. make peace with someone and stop arguing or
 Brush under the carpet: If you brush something fighting.
under the carpet, you are making an attempt to  Bury your head in the sand: If someone buries
ignore it, or hide it from others. their head in the sand, they ignore something
 Bull in a China shop: If someone behaves like a that is obviously wrong.
bull in a China shop, they are clumsy when they  Busman's holiday: A busman's holiday is when
should be careful. you spend your free time doing the same sort
 Bull market: A bull market is a period when of work as you do in your job.
investors are optimistic and there are  Bust my chops: When someone says that
expectations that good financial results will they're not going to bust their chops, it means
continue. they are not going to work that hard or make
 Bull session: If you have a bull session, you much effort.
have an informal group discussion about  Busted flush: Someone or something that had
something. great potential but ended up a useless failure is
 Bull-headed: If you're a bull-headed, you're a busted flush.
stubborn or inflexible.  Busy as a beaver: If you're as busy as a beaver,
 Bun in the oven: If a woman has a bun in the you're very busy indeed.
oven, she is pregnant.  Busy as a bee: If you are as busy as a bee, you
 Bundle of nerves: Someone who is a bundle of are very busy indeed.
nerves is very worried or nervous.  Butter wouldn't melt in their mouth: If someone
 Burn rubber: If you burn rubber, you drive very looks as if butter wouldn't melt in their mouth,
fast to get somewhere. they look very innocent.
 Burn the candle at both ends: Someone who  Butterfingers: Someone who has butterfingers
burns the candle at both ends lives life at a is clumsy and drops things.
hectic pace, doing things which are likely to  Butterflies in your stomach: The nervous
affect their health badly. feeling before something important or stressful
 Burn the midnight oil: If you stay up very late is known as butterflies in your stomach.
working or studying, you burn the midnight oil.  Button your lip: If you button your lip, you keep
 Burn your bridges: If you burn your bridges, you quiet and don't speak. It is also used as a way
do something that makes it impossible to go of telling someone to shut up.
back from the position you have taken.  Buy the farm: When somebody has bought the
 Burn your fingers: If you burn your fingers, you farm, they have died.
suffer a loss or something unpleasant as the  By a hair's breadth: If a person escapes from
some danger by a hair's breadth, they only just

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managed to avoid it. The breadth is the  By the seat of your pants: If you do something
thickness of a hair, so they probably feel by the seat of your pants, you do it without help
somewhat lucky because the margin between from anyone.
success and what could easily have been  By the skin of your teeth: If you do something
failure was so close. by the skin of your teeth, you only just manage
 By a long chalk: (UK) If you beat somebody by a to do it and come very near indeed to failing.
long chalk, you win easily and comfortably.  By word of mouth: If something becomes
 By a whisker: If you do something by a whisker, known by word of mouth, it gets known by
you only just manage to do it and come very being talked about rather than through publicity
near indeed to failing. or advertising, etc.
 By cracky: A term used by rural folks in years  Cake's not worth the candle : If someone says
past to emphasize a matter of importance or that the cake's not worth the candle, they mean
urgency. An example: 'By cracky, you need to that the result will not be worth the effort put in
get out there in the field with that mule and to achieve it.
plow and finish the sod-busting before dark.'  Calf lick: A calf lick is the weird parting in your
 By dint of: This means 'as a result of' or fringe where your hair grows in a different
'because of': It would be good to think he'd direction, usually to one side.
risen to position of Chief Executive by dint of  Call a spade a spade: A person who calls a
hard work. spade a spade is one speaks frankly and makes
 By heart: If you learn something by heart, you little or no attempt to conceal their opinions or
learn it word for word. to spare the feelings of their audience.
 By hook or by crook: If you are prepared to do  Call on the carpet: If you are called on the
something by hook or by crook, you are willing carpet, you are summoned for a reprimand by
to do anything, good or bad, to reach your goal. superiors or others in power.
 By leaps and bounds: Something that happens  Call the dogs off: If someone calls off their
by leaps and bounds happens very quickly in dogs, they stop attacking or criticizing
big steps. someone.
 By the back door: If something is started or  Call the shots: If you call the shots, you are in
introduced by the back door, then it is not done charge and tell people what to do.
openly or by following the proper procedures.  Call the tune: The person who calls the tune
 By the book: If you do something by the book, makes the important decisions about
you do it exactly as you are supposed to. something.
 By the numbers: If something is done by the  Calm before the storm: A calm time
numbers, it is done in a mechanical manner immediately before period of violent activity or
without room for creativity. argument is the calm before the storm.
 By the same token: If someone applies the  Can of worms: If an action can create serious
same rule to different situations, they judge problems, it is opening a can of worms.
them by the same token: If things go well, he's  Canary in a coal mine: (UK) A canary in a coal
full of praise, but, by the same token, when mine is an early warning of danger.
things go wrong he gets furious.  Can't dance and it's too wet to plow: (USA)
When you can't dance and it's too wet to plow,
you may as well do something because you

190
can't or don't have the opportunity to do  Cast aspersion: If you cast aspersion, you try to
anything else. blacken someone's name and make people
 Can't do it for toffee: If you can't so something think badly of them.
for toffee, you are incapable of doing  Cast doubt on: If you make other people not
something properly or to any sort of standard. sure about a matter, then you have cast doubt
 Can't hold a candle: If something can't hold a on it.
candle to something else, it is much worse.  Cast iron stomach: A person with a cast iron
 Can't see the forest for its trees: If someone stomach can eat or drink anything without any
can't see the forest for its trees, they are too ill effects.
focused on specific details to see the picture as  Cast pearls before swine: If you cast pearls
a whole. before swine, you offer something of value to
 Card up your sleeve: If you have a card up your someone who doesn't appreciate it- 'swine' are
sleeve, you have a surprise plan or idea that 'pigs'.
you are keeping back until the time is right.  Cast sheep's eyes at: If you cast sheep's eyes
 Carpetbagger: A carpetbagger is an opportunist at someone, you look lovingly or with longing at
without any scruples or ethics, or a politican them.
who wants to represent a place they have no  Cast your mind back: If somebody tells you to
connection with. cast your mind back on something, they want
 Carrot and stick: If someone offers a carrot and you to think about something that happened in
stick, they offer an incentive to do something the past, but which you might not remember
combined with the threat of punishment. very well, and to try to remember as much as
 Carry the can: If you carry the can, you take the possible.
blame for something, even though you didn't do  Cast your net widely: If you cast your net
it or are only partly at fault. widely, you use a wide range of sources when
 Case by case: If things are done case by case, trying to find something.
each situation or issue is handled separately on  Casting vote: The casting vote is a vote given to
its own merits and demerits. a chairman or president that is used when there
 Case in point: Meaning an instance of is a deadlock.
something has just occurred that was  Castles in the air: Plans that are impractical
previously discussed. For instance, a person and will never work out are castles in the air.
may have told another that something always  Cat among the pigeons: If something or
happens. Later that day, they see it happening, someone puts, or sets or lets, the cat among
and the informer might say, 'case in point'. the pigeons, they create a disturbance and
 Cash in your chips: If you cash in your chips, cause trouble.
you sell something to get what profit you can  Cat and dog life: If people lead a cat and dog
because you think its value is going to fall. It life, they are always arguing.
can also mean 'to die'.  Cat burglar: A cat burglar is a skillful thief who
 Cast a long shadow: Something or someone breaks into places without disturbing people or
that casts a long shadow has considerable setting off alarms.
influence on other people or events.  Cat fur and kitty britches: (USA) when I used to
ask my grandma what was for dinner, she
would say 'cat fur and kitty britches'. This was

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
191
her Ozark way of telling me that I would get  Change your tune: If someone changes their
what she cooked. (Ozark is a region in the ideas or the way they talk about them, they
center of the United States) change their tune.
 Cat got your tongue? : If someone asks if the  Charity begins at home: This idiom means that
cat has got your tongue, they want to know why family members are more important than
you are not speaking when they think you anyone else, and should be the focus of a
should. person's efforts.
 Cat nap: If you have a short sleep during the  Chase rainbows: If someone chases rainbows,
day, you are cat napping. they try to do something that they will never
 Catch as catch can: This means that people achieve.
should try to get something any way they can.  Chase your tail: If you are chasing your tail, you
 Catch hell: If you catch hell, you get into trouble are very busy but not being very productive.
or get scolded. ('Catch heck' is also used.)  Cheap as chips: (UK) If something is very
 Catch someone red-handed: If someone is inexpensive, it is as cheap as chips.
caught red-handed, they are found doing  Cheap at half the price: If something's cheap at
something wrong or illegal. half the price, it's very cheap indeed.
 Cat's lick: (Scot) A cat's lick is a very quick  Cheap shot: A cheap shot is an unprincipled
wash. criticism.
 Cat's pajamas: (USA) something that is the  Cheat death: If someone cheats death, they
cat's pajamas is excellent. narrowly avoid a major problem or accident.
 Cat's whiskers: Something excellent is the cat's  Cheek by jowl: If things or people are cheek by
whiskers. jowl, they are very close together.
 Caught with your hand in the cookie jar: (USA)  Cherry pick: If people cherry pick, they choose
If someone is caught with his or her hand in the things that support their position, while
cookie jar, he or she is caught doing something ignoring things that contradict it.
wrong.  Chew on a bone: If someone is chewing on a
 Chalk and cheese: Things, or people, that are bone, he or she is thinking about something
like chalk and cheese are very different and intently.
have nothing in common.  Chew the cud: If you chew the cud, you think
 Champ at the bit: If someone is champing at carefully about something.
the bit, they are very eager to accomplish  Chew the fat: If you chew the fat with someone,
something. ('Chomping at the bit' is also used.) you talk at leisure with them.
 Change horses in midstream: If people change  Chickenfeed: If something is small or
horses in midstream, they change plans or unimportant, especially money, it is
leaders when they are in the middle of chickenfeed.
something, even though it may be very risky to  Chinese walls: Chinese walls are regulatory
do so. information barriers that aim to stop the flow of
 Change of heart: If you change the way you information that could be misused, especially
think or feel about something, you have a in financial corporations.
change of heart.  Chinese whispers: (UK) when a story is told
 Change tack: If you change tack, you use a from person to person, especially if it is gossip
different method for dealing with something. or scandal, it inevitably gets distorted and

192
exaggerated. This process is called Chinese  Clean sheet: When someone has a clean sheet,
whispers. they have got no criminal record or problems
 Chip off the old block: If someone is a chip off affecting their reputation. In football and other
the old block, they closely resemble one or both sports, a goalkeeper has a clean sheet when let
of the parents in character. no goals in.
 Chip on your shoulder: If someone has a chip  Clean slate: If you start something with a clean
on their shoulder, they are resentful about slate, then nothing bad from your past is taken
something and feel that they have been treated into account.
badly.  Clean sweep : If someone makes a clean
 Chop and change: If things chop and change, sweep, they win absolutely everything in a
they keep changing, often unexpectedly. competition or contest.
 Cigarette paper: If you cannot get or put a  Clear as a bell: If something is as clear as a bell,
cigarette paper between people, they are so it is very clear or easy to understand.
closely bonded that nothing will separate them  Clear as mud: If something is as clear as mud,
or their positions on issues. then it is very confusing and unclear.
 Circle the wagons: (USA) If you circle the  Cliffhanger: If something like a sports match or
wagons, you stop communicating with people an election is a cliffhanger, then the result is so
who don't think the same way as you to avoid close that it cannot be predicted and will only
their ideas. It can also mean to bring everyone be known at the very end.
together to defend a group against an attack.  Climb on the bandwagon: When people climb
 Circling the drain: If someone is circling the on the bandwagon they do something because
drain, they are very near death and have little it is popular and everyone else is doing it.
time to live. The phrase can also describe a  Cling to hope: If people cling to hope, they
project or plan or campaign that that is on the continue to hope though the chances of
brink of failure. success are very small.
 Class act: Someone who's a class act is  Close at hand: If something is close at hand, it
exceptional in what they do. is nearby or conveniently located.
 Clean as a whistle: If something is as clean as a  Close but no cigar: (USA) If you are close but no
whistle, it is extremely clean, spotless. It can cigar, you are close to success, but have not
also be used to mean 'completely', though this got there.
meaning is less common nowadays. If  Close call: If the result of something is a close
somebody is clean as a whistle, they are not call, it is almost impossible to distinguish
involved in anything illegal. between the parties involved and to say who
 Clean bill of health: If something or someone has won or whatever.
has a clean bill of health, then there's nothing  Close shave: If you have a close shave, you very
wrong; everything's fine. nearly have a serious accident or get into
 Clean break: If you make a clean break, you trouble.
break away completely from something.  Close the stable door after the horse has
 Clean hands: Someone with clean hands, or bolted: If people try to fix something after the
who keeps their hands clean, is not involved in problem has occurred, they are trying to close
illegal or immoral activities. the stable door after the horse has bolted.

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'Close the barn door after the horse has bolted'  Cold fish: A cold fish is a person who doesn't
is alternative, often used in American English. show how they feel.
 Close to your heart: If something is close to  Cold light of day: If you see things in the cold
your heart, you care a lot about it. ('Dear to your light of day, you see them as they really are, not
heart' is an alternative.) as you might want them to be.
 Closed book to me: If a subject is a closed book  Cold shoulder: If you give or show someone the
to you, it is something that you don't cold shoulder, you are deliberately unfriendly
understand or know anything about. and unco-operative towards them.
 Cloth ears: If you don't listen to people, they  Cold sweat: If something brings you out in a
may suggest you have cloth ears. cold sweat, it frightens you a lot.
 Cloud cuckoo land: If someone has ideas or  Cold turkey: If someone suddenly stops taking
plans that are completely unrealistic, they are drugs, instead of slowly cutting down, they do
living on cloud cuckoo land. cold turkey.
 Cloud nine: If you are on cloud nine, you are  Colder than a witches tit: If it is colder than a
extremely happy. (‘Cloud seven' is a less witches tit, it is extremely cold outside.
common alternative)  Collateral damage: Accidental or unintended
 Cloud of suspicion: If a cloud of suspicion damage or casualties are collateral damage.
hangs over an individual, it means that they are  Collect dust: If something is collecting dust, it
not believed or are distrusted. isn't being used any more.
 Cloud on the horizon: If you can see a problem  Color bar: Rules that restrict access on the
ahead, you can call it a cloud on the horizon. basis of race or ethnicity are a color bar.
 Clutch at straws: If someone is in serious  Come a cropper: (UK) Someone whose actions
trouble and tries anything to help them, even or lifestyle will inevitably result in trouble is
though their chances of success are probably going to come a cropper.
nil, they are clutching at straws.  Come clean: If someone comes clean about
 Coals to Newcastle: (UK) Taking, bringing, or something, they admit to deceit or wrongdoing.
carrying coals to Newcastle is doing something  Come hell or high water: If someone says they'll
that is completely unnecessary. do something come hell or high water, they
 Cock a snook: To make a rude gesture by mean that nothing will stop them, no matter
putting one thumb to the nose with the fingers what happens.
outstretched.  Come on the heels of: If something comes on
 Cock and bull story: A cock and bull story is a the heels of something, it follows very soon
lie someone tells that is completely after it.
unbelievable.  Come out in the wash: If something will come
 Cock in the henhouse: This is used to describe out in the wash, it won't have any permanent
a male in an all-female environment. negative effect.
 Cold day in hell: This is used as a prediction  Come out of the woodwork: When things come
there is no chance some event or condition will out of the woodwork, they appear
ever happen.’ There will be a cold day in hell unexpectedly. ('Crawl out of the woodwork' is
before he manages it.' also used.)
 Cold feet: If you get cold feet about something,  Come out of your shell: If someone comes out
you lose the courage to do it. of their shell, they stop being shy and

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withdrawn and become more friendly and an idiomatic sense of a place where people feel
sociable. comfortable, where they can avoid the worries
 Come rain or shine: If I say I'll be at a place of the world. It can be physical or mental.
come rain or shine, I mean that I can be relied  Constitution of an ox: If someone has the
on to turn up; nothing, not even the vagaries of constitution of an ox, they are less affected
British weather, will deter me or stop me from than most people by things like tiredness,
being there. illness, alcohol, etc.
 Come to bear: If something comes to bear on  Cook someone's goose: If you cook someone's
you, you start to feel the pressure or effect of it. goose, you ruin their plans.
 Come to call: If someone comes to call, they  Cook up a storm: If someone cooks up a storm,
respond to an order or summons directly. they cause a big fuss or generate a lot of talk
 Come to grips: If you come to grips with a about something.
problem or issue, you face up to it and deal with  Cool as a cat: To act fine when you a actually
it. scared or nervous
 Come to heel: If someone comes to heel, they  Cool your heels: If you leave someone to cool
stop behaving in a way that is annoying to their heels, you make them wait until they have
someone in authority and start being obedient. calmed down.
 Come up roses: If things come up roses, they  Coon's age: (USA) A very long time, as in 'I
produce a positive result, especially when haven't seen her in a coon's age!'
things seemed to be going badly at first.  Corner a market: If a business is dominant in an
 Come up smelling of roses: (UK) If someone area and unlikely to be challenged by other
comes up smelling of roses, they emerge from companies, it has cornered the market.
a situation with their reputation undamaged.  Couch potato: A couch potato is an extremely
 Come up trumps: When someone is said to idle or lazy person who chooses to spend most
have 'come up trumps', they have completed an of their leisure time horizontal in front of the TV
activity successfully or produced a good result, and eats a diet that is mainly junk food.
especially when they were not expected to.  Could eat a horse: If you are very hungry, you
 Come what may: If you're prepared to do could eat a horse.
something come what may, it means that  Couldn't give two hoots: If you couldn't give
nothing will stop or distract you, no matter how two hoots about something, you don't care at
hard or difficult it becomes. all about it.
 Come with the territory: If something comes  Count Sheep: If people cannot sleep, they are
with the territory, it is part of a job or advised to count sheep mentally.
responsibility and just has to be accepted, even  Country mile: (USA) A country mile is used to
if unpleasant. describe a long distance.
 Comes with the territory: If something comes  Cover all the bases: If you cover all the bases,
with the territory, especially when undesirable, you deal with all aspects of a situation or issue,
it is automatically included with something or anticipate all possibilities. ('Cover all bases'
else, like a job, responsibility, etc.('Goes with is also used.)
the territory' is also used.)  Crack a nut with a sledgehammer: If you use a
 Comfort zone: It is the temperature range in sledgehammer to crack a nut, you apply too
which the body doesn't shiver or sweat, but has

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much force to achieve a result. ('Jackhammer' will deal with a problem when it arises, but not
is also used.) until that point
 Crash a party: If you crash a party, or are a  Cross to bear: If someone has a cross to bear,
gatecrasher, you go somewhere you haven't they have a heavy burden of responsibility or a
been invited to. problem that they alone must cope with.
 Cream of the crop: The cream of the crop is the  Crossing the Rubicon: When you are crossing
best there is. the Rubicon, you are passing a point of no
 Cream rises to the top: A good person or idea return. After you do this thing, there is no way
cannot go unnoticed for long, just as cream of turning around. The only way left is forward.
poured in coffee or tea eventually rises to the  Crunch time: When people, companies, etc,
top. have to make an important decision that will
 Creature comforts: If a person said "I hate have a considerable effect on their future, it is
camping. I don't like giving up my creature crunch time.
comforts." the person would be referring; in  Cry wolf: If someone cries wolf, they raise a
particular, to the comfortable things he/she false alarm about something.
would have at home but not when camping. At  Cry your eyes out: If you cry your eyes out, you
home, for example, he/she would have cry uncontrollably.
complete shelter from the weather, a television,  Cry-baby: A cry-baby is a person who gets
a nice comfortable warm bed, the ability to take emotional and cries too easily.
a warm bath or shower, comfortable lounge  Cuckoo in the nest: Is an issue or a problem,
chairs to relax in and so on. The person doesn't etc, is a cuckoo in the nest, it grows quickly and
like giving up the material and psychological crowds out everything else.
benefits of his/her normal life.  Cupboard love: (UK) To show love to gain
 Crème de la crème: The crème de la crème is something from someone
the very best of something.  Curate's egg: (UK) If something is a bit of a
 Crocodile tears: If someone cries crocodile curate's egg, it is only good in parts.
tears, they pretend to be upset or affected by  Curiosity killed the cat: As cats are naturally
something. curious animals, we use this expression to
 Crooked as a dog's hind leg: Someone who is suggest to people that excessive curiosity is
very dishonest is as crooked as a dog's hind not necessarily a good thing, especially where
leg. it is not their business.
 Cross swords: When people cross swords, they  Curry favor: If people try to curry favour, they
argue or dispute. This expression is used when try to get people to support them. ('Curry favor'
some groups accuse each other for non- is the American spelling.)
adherence to norms. Actually no sword is used  Curve ball: (USA) If something is a curve ball, it
but the tempo of the argument is high enough is deceptive.
to cause worsening of the already bad  Cut a rug: To cut a rug is to dance.
situation. It is a tussle (vehement struggle  Cut above: If a person is described as a cut
without use of arms) between the parties to above other people, they are better in some
establish supremacy. way.
 Cross that bridge when you come to it: If you  Cut and dried: If something is cut and dried,
will cross that bridge when you come to it, you then everything has already been decided and,

196
in the case of an opinion, might be a little stale  Cute as a bug: (USA) If something is as cute as
and predictable. a bug, it is sweet and endearing.
 Cut and run: If people cut and run, they take  Cuts no ice: If something cuts no ice, it doesn't
what they can get and leave before they lose have any effect or influence.
everything.  Cutting edge: Something that is cutting edge is
 Cut corners: If people try to do something as at the forefront of progress in its area.
cheaply or as quickly as possible, often  Daft as a brush: (UK) someone who is daft as a
sacrificing quality, they are cutting corners. brush is rather stupid.
 Cut down the tall poppies: (AU) If people cut  Damp squib: (UK) If something is expected to
down the tall poppies, they criticise people who have a great effect or impact but doesn't, it is a
stand out from the crowd. damp squib.
 Cut it fine: If you cut it fine, you only just  Dancing on someone's grave: If you will dance
manage to do something- at the very last on someone's grave, you will outlive or outlast
moment. 'Cut things fine' is the same. 'Cut it a them and will celebrate their demise.
bit fine' is a common variation.  Dark horse: If someone is a dark horse, they are
 Cut off your nose to spite your face: If you cut a bit of a mystery.
off your nose to spite your face, you do  Davey Jones' locker: Davey Jones' locker is the
something rash or silly that ends up making bottom of the sea or resting place of drowned
things worse for you, often because you are sailors.('Davy Jones' locker' is an alternative
angry or upset. spelling.)
 Cut someone some slack: To relax a rule or  Day in the sun: If you have your day in the sun,
make an allowance, as in allowing someone you get attention and are appreciated.
more time to finish something.  Daylight rob If you are overcharged or
 Cut the Gordian knot: If someone cuts the underpaid, it is a daylight robbery; open, unfair
Gordian knot, they solve a very complex and hard to prevent. Rip-off has a similar
problem in a simple way. meaning.
 Cut the mustard: (UK) If somebody or  Dead air: When there is a period of total silence,
something doesn't cut the mustard, they fail or there is dead air.
it fails to reach the required standard.  Dead and buried: If something is dead and
 Cut to the chase: If you cut to the chase, you buried, it has all long been settled and is not
get to the point, or the most interesting or going to be reconsidered.
important part of something without delay.  Dead as a dodo: If something's dead as a dodo,
 Cut to the quick: If someone's cut to the quick it is lifeless and dull. The dodo was a bird that
by something, they are very hurt and upset lived the island of Mauritius. It couldn't fly and
indeed. was hunted to extinction.
 Cut your coat according to your cloth: If you cut  Dead as a doornail: This is used to indicate that
your coat according to your cloth, you only buy something is lifeless.
things that you have sufficient money to pay  Dead duck: If something is a dead duck, it is a
for. failure.
 Cut your teeth on: The place where you gain  Dead from the neck up: Someone who's dead
your early experience is where you cut your from the neck up is very stupid indeed.
teeth.

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 Dead heat: If a race ends in a dead heat, two or  Derring-do: If a person shows derring-do, they
more finish with exactly the same result. show great courage.
 Dead in the water: If something is dead in the  Devil finds work for idle hands: When people
water, it isn't going anywhere or making any say that the devil finds work for idle hands, they
progress. mean that if people don't have anything to do
 Dead man walking: A dead man walking is with their time, they are more likely to get
someone who is in great trouble and will involved in trouble and criminality.
certainly get punished; lose their job or  Devil is in the detail: When people say that the
position, etc, soon. devil in the detail, they mean that small things
 Dead meat: This is used as a way of threatening in plans and schemes that are often overlooked
someone: You'll be dead meat if you don't go can cause serious problems later on
along.  Devil may care: If you live a devil-may-care life
 Dead men's shoes: If promotion or success it means you are willing to take more risks than
requires replacing somebody, then it can only most people.
be reached by dead men's shoes' by getting rid  Devil's advocate: If someone plays Devil's
of them. advocate in an argument, they adopt a position
 Dead to the world: If somebody's fast asleep they don't believe in just for the sake of the
and completely unaware of what if happening argument
around them, he or she's dead to the world.  Diamond in the rough: A diamond in the rough
 Deaf as a post: Someone who is as deaf as a is someone or something that has great
post is unable to hear at all. potential, but isn't not refined and polished.
 Dear John letter: A letter written by a partner  Die is cast: If the die is cast, a decision has
explaining why they are ending the relationship been made that cannot be altered and fate will
is a Dear John letter. decide the consequences.
 Death of a thousand cuts: If something is  Different kettle of fish: If something is a
suffering the death of a thousand cuts, or death different kettle of fish, it is very different from
by a thousand cuts, lots of small bad things are the other things referenced.
happening, none of which are fatal in  Different ropes for different folks: (USA) This
themselves, but which add up to a slow and idiom means that different people do things in
painful demise. different ways that suit them.
 Death warmed up: (UK) If someone looks like  Different strokes for different folks: (USA) This
death warmed up, they look very ill indeed. idiom means that different people do things in
('death warmed over' is the American form) different ways that suit them.
 Deep pockets: If someone has deep pockets,  Dig way down deep: When someone digs way
they are wealthy. down deep, they look into their inner feelings to
 Deliver the goods: Do what is required, come up see how they feel about it.
to expectations. For example, Kate delivered  Dig your heels in: If you dig your heels in, you
the goods and got us the five votes we needed. start to resist something.
This phrase alludes to delivering an order of  Dime a dozen: (USA) If something is a dime a
groceries or other items. [Colloquial; second dozen, it is extremely common, possibly too
half of 1800s] common.
 Demon weed: Tobacco is the demon weed.

198
 Dine on ashes: I someone is dining on ashes he  Dog and pony show: (USA) A dog and pony
or she is excessively focusing attention on show is a presentation or some marketing that
failures or regrets for past actions. has lots of style, but no real content.
 Dip your toes in the water: If you dip your toes  Dog days: Dog days are very hot summer days.
in the water, you try something tentatively  Dog eat dog: In a dog eat dog world, there is
because you are not sure whether it will work or intense competition and rivalry, where
not. everybody thinks only of himself or herself.
 Dirty dog: A dirty dog is an untrustworthy  Dog in the manger: (UK) If someone acts like a
person. dog in the manger, they don't want other people
 Discerning eye: If a person has a discerning to have or enjoy things that are useless to
eye, they are particularly good at judging the them.
quality of something.  Dog tired: If you are dog tired, you are
 Discretion is the better part of valour: This exhausted.
idiom means that it is often better to think  Dog-eared: If a book is dog-eared, it is in bad
carefully and not act than to do something that condition, with torn pages, etc.
may cause problems.  Doggy bag: If you ask for a doggy bag in a
 Dish the dirt: If you dish the dirt on something restaurant, they will pack the food you haven't
or someone, you make unpleasant or shocking eaten for you to take home.
information public.  Dog's dinner: Something that is a dog's dinner
 Do a Devon Loch: (UK) If someone does a is a real mess.
Devon Loch, they fail when they were very close  Dog's life: If some has a dog's life, they have a
to winning. Devon Loch was a horse that very unfortunate and wretched life.
collapsed just short of the winning line of the  Dog-whistle politics: (AU) when political parties
Grand National race. have policies that will appeal to racists while
 Do a runner: (UK) If people leave a restaurant not being overtly racist, they are indulging in
without paying, they do a runner. dog-whistle politics.
 Do as you would be done by: Treat and respect  Doldrums: If a person is in the doldrums, they
others as you would hope to be respected and are depressed. If a project or something similar
treated by them. is in the doldrums, it isn't making any progress.
 Do the needful: (India) If you do the needful,  Dollars for doughnuts: (USA) If something is
you do what is necessary. dollars for doughnuts; it is a sure bet or
 Do the running: (UK) The person who has to do certainty.
the running has to make sure that things get  Done to death: If a joke or story has been done
done. ('Make the running' is also used.) to death, it has been told so often that it has
 Do their dirty work: Someone who does stopped being funny.
someone's dirty work carries out the  Donkey's years: This idiom means 'a very long
unpleasant jobs that the first person doesn't time'.
want to do. Someone who seems to enjoy doing  Don't bite the hand that feeds: When someone
this is sometimes known as a 'henchman'. says this to you, they are trying to tell you not
 Dodge the bullet: If someone has dodged a to act against those on whom you depend.
bullet, they have successfully avoided a very  Don't catch your chickens before they're
serious problem. hatched: This means that you should wait until

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you know whether something has produced the  Don't take any wooden nickels: (USA) This
results you desire, rather than acting idiom is used to advise people not to be
beforehand. ('Don't count your chickens until cheated or ripped off.
they've hatched' is an alternative.)  Don't take any wooden nickels: (USA) This is a
 Don't cry over spilt milk: When something bad warning that you should not allow yourself to
happens and nothing can be done to help it be cheated or fooled.
people say, 'Don't cry over spilt milk'.  Don't throw bricks when you live in a glass
 Don't give up the day job: This idiom is used a house: Don't call others out on actions that you,
way of telling something that they do yourself do. Don't be a hypocrite.
something badly.  Don't upset the applecart: If you are advised
 Don't hold your breath: If you are told not to not to upset the applecart, you are being told
hold your breath, it means that you shouldn't not to disturb the way things are done because
have high expectations about something. it might ruin things.
 Don't judge a book by the cover: This idiom  Don't wash your dirty laundry in public: (UK)
means that you should not judge something or People, especially couples, who argue in front
someone by appearances, but should look of others or involve others in their personal
deeper at what is inside and more important. problems and crises, are said to be washing
 Don't know whether to wind a watch or bark at their dirty laundry in public; making public
the moon: If you don't know what to do, you things that are best left private. (In American
don't know whether to wind a watch or bark at English, 'don't air your dirty laundry in public' is
the moon. used.)
 Don't look a gift horse in the mouth: This  Doormat: A person who doesn't stand up for
means that if you are given something, a themselves and gets treated badly is a
present or a chance, you should not waste it by doormat.
being too critical or examining it too closely.  Do's and don’ts: The do's and don’ts are what is
 Don't mention the war: This means that you acceptable or allowed or not within an area or
shouldn't speak about things that could cause issue, etc.
an argument or tension. This idiom was used in  Dot all the i's and cross all the t's: If you dot all
a classic episode of the much-loved British the i's and cross all the t's, you do something
comedy series Fawlty Towers. As a very carefully and thoroughly.
consequence if you use this phrase in Britain,  Double Dutch: (UK) If something is double
listeners will understand you to be referring to Dutch, it is completely incomprehensible.
Germans, or just start laughing.  Double take: If someone does a double take,
 Don't push my buttons: This can be said to they react very slowly to something to show
someone who is starting to annoy you. how shocked or surprised they are.
 Don't stand there with curlers in your hair: This  Double whammy: A double whammy is when
means 'don't keep me waiting'. It's said to something causes two problems at the same
someone who is taking too long to get moving. time, or when two setbacks occur at the same
 Don't sweat the small stuff: (USA) This is used time.
to tell people not to worry about trivial or  Double-edged sword: If someone uses an
unimportant issues. argument that could both help them and harm

200
them, then they are using a double-edged  Drag your heels: If you drag your heels, you
sword; it cuts both ways. either delay doing something or do it as slowly
 Doubting Thomas: A Doubting Thomas is as possible because you don't want to do it.
someone who only believes what they see  Draw a blank: If you try to find something out
themselves, not what they are told. and draw a blank, you don't get any useful
 Down and out: If someone is down and out, information.
they are desperately poor and need help.  Draw a line in the sand: If you draw a line in the
 Down at heel: Someone who is down at heel is sand, you establish a limit beyond which things
short of money. ('Down in heel' is used in will be unacceptable.
American English)  Draw a long bow: If someone draws a long bow,
 Down for the count: If someone is down for the they lie or exaggerate.
count, they have lost a struggle, like a boxer  Draw the line: When you draw the line, you set
who has been knocked out. out limits of what you find acceptable, beyond
 Down in the doldrums: If somebody's down in which you will not go.
the doldrums, they are depressed and lacking  Draw the shortest straw: If someone draws the
energy. shortest straw, they lose or are chosen to do
 Down in the dumps: If someone's down in the something unpleasant.
dumps, they are depressed.  Dress someone down: If you dress someone
 Down in the mouth: If someone is down in the down, you scold them.
mouth, they look unhappy or depressed.  Dress to kill: When someone is dressed to kill,
 Down the drain: If something goes down the they are dressed very smartly.
drain, especially money or work, it is wasted or  Dressed to the nines: If you are in your very
produces no results. best clothes, you're dressed to the nines.
 Down the hatch: This idiom can be said before  Drink like a fish: If someone drinks like a fish,
drinking alcohol in company. they drink far too much alcohol.
 Down the pan: If something has gone down the  Drive a wedge: If you drive a wedge between
pan, it has failed or been ruined. people, you exploit an issue so that people start
 Down the tubes: If something has gone down to disagree.
the tubes, it has failed or been ruined.  Drive home: The idiomatic expression 'drive
 Down to the wire: (USA) If something goes home' means 'reinforce' as in 'The company
down to the wire, like a competition, then it offered unlimited technical support as a way to
goes to the very last moment before it is clear drive home the message that customer
who has won. satisfaction was its highest priority.'
 Down-to-earth: Someone who's down-to-earth  Drive someone up the wall: If something or
is practical and realistic. It can also be used for someone drives you up the wall, they do
things like ideas. something that irritates you greatly.
 Drag your feet: If someone is dragging their  Drive you spare: If someone or something
feet, they are taking too long to do or finish drives you spare, it is extremely annoying.
something, usually because they don't want to  Driven by a motor: This is used to describe
do it. people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity
Disorder when they talk excessively: 'they act
as if driven by a motor.'

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 Drop a bombshell: If someone drops a  Dull as ditchwater: (UK) If something is as dull

bombshell, they announce something that as ditchwater, it is incredibly boring. A ditch is a
changes a situation drastically and long narrow hole or trench dug to contain
unexpectedly. water, which is normally a dark, dirty color and
 Drop in the bucket: (USA) A drop in the bucket stagnant (when water turns a funny color and
is something so small that it won't make any starts to smell bad). (In American English,’
noticeable difference. things are 'dull as dishwater'.)
 Drop in the ocean: A drop in the ocean implies  Dunkirk spirit: (UK) Dunkirk spirit is when
that something will have little effect because it people pull together to get through a very
is small and mostly insignificant. difficult time.
 Drop like flies: This means that something is  Dutch auction: If something is sold by setting a
disappearing very quickly. For example, if you price, then reducing it until someone buys it, it
said people were dropping like flies, it would is sold in a Dutch auction. It can also mean that
mean that they were dying off, quitting or something is changed until it is accepted by
giving up something rapidly. everyone.
 Drop someone a line: If you drop someone a  Dutch courage: Dutch courage is the reckless
line, you send a letter to them. bravery caused by drinking too much.
 Drop the ball: If someone drops the ball, they  Dutch treat: If something like a meal is a Dutch
are not doing their job or taking their treat, then each person pays their own share of
responsibilities seriously enough and let the bill.
something go wrong.  Dutch uncle: A Dutch uncle is a person who
 Drown your sorrows: If someone gets drunk or gives unwelcome advice.
drinks a lot to try to stop feeling unhappy, they  Dutch wife: A Dutch wife is a long pillow or a
drown their sorrows. hot water bottle.
 Drunk as a lord: (UK) someone who is very  Dwell on the past: Thinking too much about the
drunk is as drunk as a lord. past, so that it becomes a problem is to dwell
 Dry as a bone: If your lawn is as dry as a bone, on the past.
the soil is completely dry.  Dyed-in-the-wool: If someone is a dyed-in-the-
 Dry run: A dry run is a full rehearsal or trial wool supporter of a political party, etc, they
exercise of something to see how it will work support them totally, without any questions.
before it is launched.  Each to their own: Different people have
 Dry spell: If something or someone is having a different preferences. In American English,
dry spell, they aren't being as successful as 'Each to his own' is more common.
they normally are.  Eager beaver: A person who is extremely keen
 Duck soup: (USA) If something is duck soup, it is an eager beaver.
is very easy.  Eagle eyes: Someone who has eagle eyes sees
 Duck to water: If you take to something like a everything; no detail is too small.
duck to water, you find when you start that you  Early bath: (UK) If someone has or goes for an
have a natural affinity for it. early bath, they quit or lose their job or position
 Ducks in a row: (USA) If you have your ducks in earlier than expected because things have gone
a row, you are well-organized. wrong.

202
 Early bird catches the worm: The early bird  Eat someone alive: If you eat someone alive,
catches the worm means that if you start you defeat or beat them comprehensively.
something early, you stand a better chance of  Eat your heart out: If someone tells you to eat
success. your heart out, they are saying they are better
 Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy than you at something.
wealthy and wise: It means that sleeping well  Eat your words: If you eat your words, you
and not staying up late will help you out accept publicly that you were wrong about
physically and financially. something you said.
 Earn a living: To make money Ex: We need to  Economical with the truth: (UK) If someone,
get a good job to earn a decent living. especially a politician, is economical with the
 Easier said than done: If something is easier truth, they leave out information in order to
said than done, it is much more difficult than it create a false picture of a situation, without
sounds. It is often used when someone advises actually lying.
you to do something difficult and tries to make  Egg on your face: If someone has egg on their
it sound easy. face, they are made to look foolish or
 Easy as ABC: Something that is as easy as ABC embarrassed.
is very easy or simple.  Elbow grease: If something requires elbow
 Easy as beans: Something that is so easy that grease, it involves a lot of hard physical work.
anyone can do it is easy as beans.  Elbow room: If you haven't got enough elbow
 Easy as pie: If something is easy as pie, it is room, you haven't got enough space.
very easy indeed.  Elephant in the room: An elephant in the room
 Easy come, easy go: This idiom means that is a problem that everyone knows very well but
money or other material gains that come no one talks about because it is taboo,
without much effort tend to get spent or embarrassing, etc.
consumed as easily.  Eleventh hour: If something happens at the
 Easy peasy: (UK) If something is easy peasy, it eleventh hour, it happens right at the last
is very easy indeed. ('Easy peasy, lemon minute.
squeezy' is also used.)  Empty vessels make the most noise: The
 Eat crow: (USA) If you eat crow, you have to thoughtless often speak the most.
admit that you were wrong about something.  End in smoke: If something ends in smoke, it
 Eat humble pie: If someone apologises and produces no concrete or positive result. This
shows a lot of contrition for something they expression refers to the boasting by a person,
have done, they eat humble pie. of having put in a lot of efforts by him, for a
 Eat like a bird: If someone eats like a bird, they particular cause or to attain a result which is
eat very little. very difficult to be done by any person. (This
 Eat like a horse: Someone who eats like a horse mainly refers to an investigation of a crime or
eats a lot. solving a serious offence or a mystery). But at
 Eat like a pig: If some eats like a pig, they either the end, when the desired result is not obtained,
eat too much or they have bad table manners. his claims are found to be false and not worth
 Eat my hat: People say this when they don't mentioning. So, he looses his credibility.
believe that something is going to happen e.g.  Even a blind squirrel finds a nut once in a while:
'If he passes that exam, I'll eat my hat!' This expression means that even if people are

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203
ineffective or misguided, sometimes they can  Everybody and their uncle: This basically
still be correct just by being lucky. means a lot of people or too many people;
 Even keel: If something is on an even keel, it is everybody and their uncle was there.
balanced.  Everything but the kitchen sink: If people
 Even Stevens: If everything is equal between include everything but the kitchen sink, they
people, they are even Stevens. include every possibility, regardless of whether
 Even the dogs in the street know: (Irish) This they are useful.
idiom is used frequently in Ireland, and means  Exception that proves the rule: This expression
something is so obvious that even the dogs in is used by many to indicate that an exception in
the street know it. some way confirms a rule. Others say that the
 Every ass likes to hear himself bray: This exception tests the rule. In its original legal
means that people like the sound of their own sense, it meant that a rule could sometimes be
voice. inferred from an exemption or exception. In
 Every cloud has a silver lining: People general use, the first meaning predominates
sometimes say that every cloud has a silver nowadays, much to the annoyance of some
lining to comfort somebody who's having pedants.
problems. They mean that it is always possible  Explore all avenues: If all avenues are being
to get something positive out of a situation, no explored, then every conceivable approach is
matter how unpleasant, difficult or even painful being tried that could possibly get the desired
it might seem. result.
 Every dog has its day: This idiom means that  Eye candy: When a person is very attractive,
everyone gets their moment to shine. they can be described as eye candy - sweet to
 Every man and his dog: A lot of people - as in look at!
sending out invitations to a large number of  Eye for an eye: This is an expression for
people retributive justice, where the punishment
 Every man for himself: If it's every man for equals the crime.
himself, then people are trying to save  Eye- wash: This expression 'eye-wash' is
themselves from a difficult situation without generally used to cover up the anxiety of a
trying to help anyone else. person who is seeking a concrete reply or
 Every man has his price: Anyone's opinion or justification for an act or an event that had
support can be bought; everyone's principles affected his personal image or caused him a
have a limit. loss. The affected person usually represents his
 Every man jack: If every man jack was involved case to the higher-ups and puts forth his
in something, it is an emphatic way of saying demands for redressal. But the authority, in
that absolutely everybody was involved. order to avoid embarrassment to his
 Every Tom, Dick and Harry: If every Tom, Dick organization or to himself, is not in a position
and Harry knows about something, then it is to expose the entire material or evidence which
common knowledge. in turn tell upon the credibility of the
 Every trick in the book: If you try every trick in organization. In such circumstances, he will
the book, you try every possible way, including usually call for an investigation to satisfy the
dishonesty and deceit, to get what you want. complainant, but will not be keen in disposing
the case. The authority will drag on the issue,

204
(at the same time pretending to be serious) but forgets about you when things get difficult
until the seriousness of the issue dies down or problems crop up.
and no finality is reached. So, ' The  Fall by the wayside: To fall by the wayside is to
investigation on the issue by the authority is an give up or fail before completion.
eye-wash'.  Fall off the back of a lorry: (UK) If someone
 Eyes are bigger than one's stomach: If tries to sell you something that has fallen of the
someone's eyes are bigger than their stomach, back of a lorry, they are trying to sell you stolen
they are greedy and take on more than they can goods.
consume or manage.  Fall off the turnip truck: (USA) If someone has
 Face like thunder: If someone has a face like just fallen off the turnip truck, they are
thunder, they are clearly very angry or upset uninformed, naive and gullible. (Often used in
about something. the negative)
 Face the music: If you have to face the music,  Fall on our feet: If you fall on your feet, you
you have to accept the negative consequences succeed in doing something where there was a
of something you have done wrong. risk of failure.
 Face value: If you take something at face value,  Fall on your sword: If someone falls on their
you accept the appearance rather than looking sword, they resign or accept the consequences
deeper into the matter. of some wrongdoing.
 Face your demons: If you face your demons,  Familiarity breeds contempt: This means that
you confront your fears or something that you the more you know something or someone, the
have been trying hard to avoid. more you start to find faults and dislike things
 Facts of life: When someone is taught the facts about it or them.
of life, they learn about sex and reproduction.  Famous last words: This expression is used as
 Failure is the mother of success: Failure is a way of showing disbelief, rejection or self-
often a stepping stone towards success. deprecation.’ They said we had no chance of
 Faint heart never won fair lady: This means that winning- famous last words!'
you will not get the partner of your dreams if  Fast and furious: Things that happen fast and
you lack the confidence to let them know how furious happen very quickly without stopping or
you feel. pausing.
 Fair and square: If someone wins something  Fat cat: A fat cat is a person who makes a lot of
fair and square, they follow the rules and win money and enjoys a privileged position in
conclusively. society.
 Fair crack of the whip: (UK) If everybody has a  Fat chance : This idiom is a way of telling
fair crack of the whip, they all have equal someone they have no chance.
opportunities to do something.  Fat head: A fat head is a dull, stupid person.
 Fair shake of the whip: (USA) If everybody has a  Fat hits the fire: When the fat hits the fire,
fair shake of the whip, they all have equal trouble breaks out.
opportunities to do something.  Fat of the land: Living off the fat of the land
 Fair thee well: Meaning completely and fully: I means having the best of everything in life
am tied up today to a fair-thee-well.  Fate worse than death: Describing something
 Fairweather friend: A fair-weather friend is the as a fate worse than death is a fairly common
type who is always there when times are good way of implying that it is unpleasant.

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 Feather in your cap: A success or achievement  Fifth wheel: (USA) A fifth wheel is something
that may help you in the future is a feather in unnecessary or useless.
your cap.  Fight an uphill battle: When you fight an uphill
 Feather your own nest: If someone feathers battle, you have to struggle against very
their own nest, they use their position or job for unfavourable circumstances.
personal gain.  Fight tooth and nail: If someone will fight tooth
 Feathers fly: When people are fighting or and nail for something, they will not stop at
arguing angrily, we can say that feathers are anything to get what they want. ('Fight tooth
flying. and claw' is an alternative.)
 Fed up to the back teeth: When you are  Fighting chance: If you have a fighting chance,
extremely irritated and fed up with something you have a reasonable possibility of success.
or someone, you are fed up to the back teeth.  Find your feet: When you are finding your feet,
 Feel at home: If you feel relaxed and you are in the process of gaining confidence
comfortable somewhere or with someone, you and experience in something.
feel at home.  Fine and dandy: (UK) If thing's are fine and
 Feel free: If you ask for permission to do dandy, then everything is going well.
something and are told to feel free, the other  Fine tuning: Small adjustments to improve
person means that there is absolutely no something or to get it working are called fine
problem tuning.
 Feel like a million: If you feel like a million, you  Fine words butter no parsnips: This idiom
are feeling very well (healthy) and happy. means that it's easy to talk, but talk is not
 Feel the pinch: If someone is short of money or action.
feeling restricted in some other way, they are  Finger in the pie: If you have a finger in the pie,
feeling the pinch. you have an interest in something.
 Feeling blue: If you feel blue, you are feeling  Fingers and thumbs: If you are all fingers and
unwell, mainly associated with depression or thumbs, you are being clumsy and not very
unhappiness. skilled with your hands.
 Feet of clay: If someone has feet of clay, they  Fire away: If you want to ask someone a
have flaws that make them seem more human question and they tell you to fire away, they
and like normal people. mean that you are free to ask what you want.
 Feet on the ground: A practical and realistic  Fire on all cylinders: If something is firing on all
person has their feet on the ground. cylinders, it is going as well as it could.
 Fence sitter: Someone that try to support both  First come, first served: This means there will
side of an argument without committing to be no preferential treatment and a service will
either is a fence sitter. be provided to those that arrive first.
 Fiddle while Rome burns: If people are fiddling  First out of the gate: When someone is first out
while Rome burns, they are wasting their time of the gate, they are the first to do something
on futile things while problems threaten to that others are trying to do.
destroy them.  First port of call: The first place you stop to do
 Fifth columnist: (UK) A fifth columnist is a something is your first port of call.
member of a subversive organisation who tries
to help an enemy invade.

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 Fish or cut bait: (USA) This idiom is used when  Flowery speech: Flowery speech is full of lovely
you want to tell someone that it is time to take words, but may well lack substance.
action.  Fly by the seat of one's pants: If you fly by the
 Fish out of water: If you are placed in a seat of one's pants, you do something difficult
situation that is completely new to you and even though you don't have the experience or
confuses you, you are like a fish out of water. training required.
 Fishy: If there is something fishy about  Fly in the ointment: A fly in the ointment is
someone or something, there is something something that spoils or prevents complete
suspicious; a feeling that there is something enjoyment of something.
wrong, though it isn't clear what it is.  Fly off the handle: If someone flies off the
 Fit as a fiddle: If you are fit as a fiddle, you are handle, they get very angry.
in perfect health.  Fly on the wall: If you are able to see and hear
 Fit for a king: If something is fit for a king, it is events as they happen, you are a fly on the wall.
of the very highest quality or standard.  Fly the coop: When children leave home to live
 Fit of pique: If someone reacts badly because away from their parents, they fly the coop.
their pride is hurt, this is a fit of pique.  Fly the flag: If someone flies the flag, they
 Fit the bill: If something fits the bill, it is what is represent or support their country. ('Wave the
required for the task. flag' and 'show the flag' are alternative forms of
 Fit to be tied: If someone is fit to be tied, they this idiom)
are extremely angry.  Food for thought: If something is food for
 Flash in the pan: If something is a flash in the thought, it is worth thinking about or
pan, it is very noticeable but doesn't last long, considering seriously.
like most singers, who are very successful for a  Fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice,
while, then forgotten. shame on me: This means that you should
 Flat as a pancake: It is so flat that it is like a learn from your mistakes and not allow people
pancake- there is no head on that beer it is as to take advantage of you repeatedly.
flat as a pancake.  Fools rush in where angels fear to tread: This
 Flat out: If you work flat out, you work as hard idiom is used where people who are
and fast as you possibly can. inexperienced or lack knowledge do something
 Fleet of foot: If someone is fleet of foot, they that more informed people would avoid.
are very quick.  Foot in mouth: This is used to describe
 Flesh and blood: Your flesh and blood are your someone who has just said something
blood relatives, especially your immediate embarrassing, inappropriate, wrong or stupid.
family.  Foot in the door: If you have or get your foot in
 Flogging a dead horse: (UK) If someone is the door, you start working in a company or
trying to convince people to do or feel organisation at a low level, hoping that you will
something without any hope of succeeding, be able to progress from there.
they're flogging a dead horse. This is used  Foot the bill: The person who foots the bill pays
when someone is trying to raise interest in an the bill for everybody.
issue that no-one supports anymore; beating a  Football's a game of two halves: (UK) If
dead horse will not make it do any more work. something's a game of two halves, it means
that it's possible for someone's fortunes or luck

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207
to change and the person who's winning could  Four-eyes: A person who wears glasses
end up a loser.  Four-square behind: If someone stands four-
 For a song: If you buy or sell something for a square behind someone, they give that person
song, it is very cheap. their full support.
 For donkey's years: (UK) If people have done  Fourth estate: This is an idiomatic way of
something, usually without much if any change, describing the media, especially the
for an awfully long time, they can be said to newspapers.
have done it for donkey's years.  Free rein: If someone has a free rein, they have
 For England: (UK) A person who talks for the authority to make the decisions they want
England, talks a lot- if you do something for without any restrictions. ('Free reign' is a
England, you do it a lot or to the limit. common mistake.)
 For kicks: If you do something for kicks, or just  Free-for-all: A free-for-all is a fight or contest
for kicks, you do it purely for fun or thrills. in which everyone gets involved and rules are
 For my money: This idiom means 'in my not respected.
opinion'.  Fresh from the oven: If something is fresh from
 For Pete's sake: This is used as an exclamation the oven, it is very new.
to show exasperation or irritation.  Freudian Slip: If someone makes a Freudian
 For the birds: If something is worthless or slip, they accidentally use the wrong word, but
ridiculous, it is for the birds. in doing so reveal what they are really thinking
 For the love of Pete: Usually used in rather than what they think the other person
exasperation, as in 'Oh, for the love of Pete!' wants to hear.
 For the time being: For the time being indicates  Friendly footing: When relationships are on a
that an action or state will continue into the friendly footing, they are going well.
future, but is temporary. I'm sharing an office  From a different angle: If you look at something
for the time being. from a different angle, you look at it from a
 Forbidden fruit: Something enjoyable that is different point of view.
illegal or immoral is forbidden fruit.  From Missouri: (USA) If someone is from
 Foregone conclusion: If the result of, say, a Missouri, then they require clear proof before
football match is a foregone conclusion, then they will believe something.
the result is obvious before the game has even  From pillar to post: If something is going from
begun. pillar to post, it is moving around in a
 Forest for the trees: (USA) If someone can't see meaningless way, from one disaster to another.
the forest for the trees, they get so caught up in  From rags to riches: Someone who starts life
small details that they fail to understand the very poor and makes a fortune goes from rags
bigger picture. to riches.
 Fortune knocks once at every man's door:  From scratch: This idiom means 'from the
Everyone gets one good chance in a lifetime. beginning'.
 Foul play: If the police suspect foul play, they  From soup to nuts: If you do something from
think a crime was committed. soup to nuts, you do it from the beginning right
 Four corners of the earth: If something goes to, to the very end.
or comes from, the four corners of the earth, it  From the bottom of your heart: If someone
goes or comes absolutely everywhere. does something from the bottom of their heart,

208
then they do it with genuine emotion and  Fuzzy thinking: Thinking or ideas that do not
feeling. agree with the facts or information available
 From the get-go: (USA) If something happens  Game plan: A game plan is a strategy.
from the get-go, it happens from the very  Garbage fee: A garbage fee is a charge that has
beginning. no value and doesn't provide any real service.
 From the horse's mouth: If you hear something  Garbage in, garbage out: If a computer system
from the horse's mouth, you hear it directly or database is built badly, then the results will
from the person concerned or responsible. be bad.
 From the sublime to the ridiculous: If  Gardening leave: (UK) If someone is paid for a
something declines considerably in quality or period when they are not working, either after
importance, it is said to have gone from the they have given in their notice or when they are
sublime to the ridiculous. being investigated, they are on gardening leave.
 From the word go: From the word go means  Gather pace: If events gather pace, they move
from the very beginning of something. faster.
 Full bore: If something is full bore, it involves  Gather steam: If something gathers speed, it
the maximum effort or is complete and moves or progresses at an increasing speed.
thorough.  Get along famously: If people get along
 Full circle: When something has come full famously, they have an exceedingly good
circle, it has ended up where it started. relationship.
 Full Monty: (UK) If something is the Full Monty,  Get away scot-free: If someone gets away
it is the real thing, not reduced in any way. scot-free, they are not punished when they
 Full of beans: If someone's full of beans, they have done something wrong. ('Get off scot-free'
are very energetic. is an alternative.)
 Full of hot air: Someone who is full of hot air  Get away with murder: If you get away with
talks a lot of rubbish. murder, you do something bad and don't get
 Full of oneself: Someone who acts in an caught or punished.('Get away with blue
arrogant or egotistical manner is full of murder' is also used.)
himself/herself.  Get in on the act: If people want to get in on the
 Full of piss and vinegar: Someone who's full of act, they want to participate in something that
piss and vinegar is full of youthful energy. is currently profitable or popular.
 Full of the joys of spring: If you are full of the  Get in on the ground floor: If you get in on the
joys of spring, you are very happy and full of ground floor, you enter a project or venture at
energy. the start before people know how successful it
 Full swing: If a something is in full swing, it is might be.
going or doing well.  Get it in the neck: (UK) If you get it in the neck,
 Fullness of time: If something happens in the you are punished or criticised for something.
fullness of time, it will happen when the time is  Get it off your chest: If you get something off
right and appropriate. your chest, you confess to something that has
 Fur coat and no knickers: Someone with airs been troubling you.
and graces, but no real class is fur coat and no  Get my drift: If you get someone's drift, you
knickers. understand what they are trying to say. ('Catch
their drift' is an alternative form.)

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209
 Get on like a house on fire: If people get on like  Get your hands dirty: If you get your hands
a house on fire, they have a very close and dirty, you become involved in something where
good relationship. the realities might compromise your principles.
 Get on your nerves: If something gets on your It can also mean that a person is not just stuck
nerves, it annoys or irritates you. in an ivory tower dictating strategy, but is
 Get on your soapbox: If someone on their prepared to put in the effort and hard work to
soapbox, they hold forth (talk a lot) about a make the details actually happen.
subject they feel strongly about.  Get your head around something: If you get
 Get out of bed on the wrong side: If you get out your head around something, you come to
of bed on the wrong side, you wake up and start understand it even though it is difficult to
the day in a bad mood for no real reason. comprehend.
 Get the axe: If you get the axe, you lose your  Get your teeth into: If you get your teeth into
job. ('Get the ax' is the American spelling.) something, you become involved in or do
 Get the ball rolling: If you get the ball rolling, something that is intellectually challenging or
you start something so that it can start making satisfying. ('Dig you teeth into' and 'sink your
progress. teeth into' are also used.)
 Get the green light: If you get the green light to  Get your wires crossed: If people get their wires
do something, you are given the necessary cross, they misunderstand each other,
permission, authorisation. especially when making arrangements. ('Get
 Get the monkey off your back: If you get the your lines crossed' is also used.)
monkey off your back, you pass on a problem  Ghost of a chance: If something or someone
to someone else. hasn't got a ghost of a chance, they have no
 Get the nod: (UK) If you get the nod to hope whatsoever of succeeding.
something, you get approval or permission to  Ghostly presence: You can feel or otherwise
do it. sense a ghostly presence, but you cannot do it
 Get to grips: If you get to grips with something, clearly only vaguely.
you take control and do it properly.  Gift of the gab: If someone has the gift of the
 Get up and go: If someone has lots of get up gab, they speak in a persuasive and interesting
and go, they have lots of enthusiasm and way.
energy.  Gild the lily: If you gild the lily, you decorate
 Get wind of: If you get wind of something, you something that is already ornate.
hear or learn about it, especially if it was meant  Gilded cage: If someone is in a gilded cage,
to be secret. they are trapped and have restricted or no
 Get your ducks in a row: If you get your ducks freedom, but have very comfortable
in a row, you organise yourself and your life. surroundings- many famous people live in
 Get your feathers in a bunch: If you get your luxury but cannot walk out of their house alone.
feathers in a bunch, you get upset or angry  Girl Friday: A girl Friday is a female employee
about something. who assists someone without any specific
 Get your feet wet: If you get your feet wet, you duties.
gain your first experience of something.  Give a big hand: Applaud by clapping hands.
 Get your goat: If something gets your goat, it 'Let's give all the contestants a big hand.'
annoys you.

210
 Give a dog a bad name: A person who is  Give up the ghost: People give up the ghost
generally known to have been guilty of some when they die. Machines stop working when
offence will always be suspected to be the they give up the ghost.
author of all similar types of offence. Once  Give your eye teeth: If you really want
someone has gained a bad reputation, it is very something and would be prepared to sacrifice a
difficult to lose it. lot to get it, you would give your eye teeth for it.
 Give and take: Where there is give and take,  Given the day that's in it: (Irish) This idiom is
people make concessions in order to get things used when something is obvious because of
they want in negotiations. the day that it occurs: traffic, for example
 Give as good as you get: If you give as good as would be busy around a football stadium on
you get, you are prepared to treat people as game day, given the day that's in it. On any
badly as they treat you and to fight for what other day the traffic would be unexplainable,
you believe. but because it’s game day its obvious why
 Give it some stick: (UK) If you give something there is traffic.
some stick, you put a lot of effort into it.  Glass ceiling: The glass ceiling is the
 Give me a hand: If someone gives you a hand, discrimination that prevents women and
they help you. minorities from getting promoted to the highest
 Give me five: If someone says this, they want to levels of companies and organisations.
hit your open hand against theirs as a way of  Gloves are off: When the gloves are off, people
congratulation or greeting. start to argue or fight in a more serious way.
 Give someone a leg up: If you give someone a ('The gloves come off' and 'take the gloves off'
leg up, you help them to achieve something are also used. It comes from boxing, where
that they couldn't have done alone. fighters normally wear gloves so that they don't
 Give someone a piece of your mind: If you give do too much damage to each other.)
someone a piece of your mind, you criticise  Glutton for punishment: If a person is described
them strongly and angrily. as a glutton for punishment, the happily accept
 Give someone a run for their money: If you can jobs and tasks that most people would try to
give someone a run for the money, you are as get out of. A glutton is a person who eats a lot.
good, or nearly as good, as they are at  Gnaw your vitals: If something gnaws your
something. vitals, it troubles you greatly and affects you at
 Give someone enough rope: If you give a very deep level. ('Gnaw at your vitals' is also
someone enough rope, you give them the used.)
chance to get themselves into trouble or  Go against the grain: A person, who does things
expose themselves. (The full form is 'give in an unconventional manner, especially if their
someone enough rope and they'll hang methods are not generally approved of, is said
themselves) to go against the grain. Such an individual can
 Give someone stick: (UK) If someone gives you be called a maverick.
stick, they criticise you or punish you.  Go awry: If things go awry, they go wrong.
 Give the nod: (UK) If you give the nod to  Go bananas: If you go bananas, you are wild
something, you approve it or give permission to with excitement, anxiety, or worry.
do it.  Go blue: If you go blue, you are very cold
indeed. ('Turn blue' is an alternative form.)

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211
 Go bust: If a company goes bust, it goes beyond their duty what could be expected of
bankrupt. them .
 Go by the boards: If something goes by the  Go the whole hog: If you go the whole hog, you
boards, it fails to get approved or accepted. do something completely or to its limits.
 Go down swinging: If you want to go down  Go through the motions: When you go through
swinging, you know you will probably fail, but the motions, you do something like an everyday
you refuse to give up. routine and without any feelings whatsoever.
 Go down without a fight: If someone goes down  Go to seed: If someone has gone to seed, they
without a fight, they surrender without putting have declined in quality or appearance.
up any resistance.  Go to the wire: If someone goes to the wire, he
 Go Dutch: If you go Dutch in a restaurant, you risks his life, job, reputation, etc, to help
pay equal shares for the meal. someone.
 Go fly a kite: (USA) This is used to tell someone  Go under the hammer: If something goes under
to go away and leave you alone. the hammer, it is sold in an auction.
 Go for broke: If someone goes for broke, they  Go west: If something goes west, it goes wrong.
risk everything they have for a potentially If someone goes west, they die.
greater gain.  Go with the flow: If you go with the flow, you
 Go fry an egg: (USA) This is used to tell accept things as they happen and do what
someone to go away and leave you alone. everyone else wants to do.
 Go hand in hand: If things go hand in hand, they  Going overboard: If you go overboard with
are associated and go together. something, then you take something too far, or
 Go nuts: If someone goes nuts, they get excited do too much.
over something.  Golden handshake: A golden handshake is a
 Go off on a tangent: If someone goes off on a payment made to someone to get them to leave
tangent, they change the subject completely in their job.
the middle of a conversation or talk.  Golden rule: The golden rule is the most
 Go pear-shaped: If things have gone wrong, essential or fundamental rule associated with
they have gone pear-shaped. something. Originally, it was not a general
 Go play in traffic: This is used as a way of reference to an all purpose first rule applicable
telling someone to go away. to many groups or protocols, but referred to a
 Go round in circles: If people are going round in verse in the Bible about treating people they
circles, they keep discussing the same thing way you would want them to treat you, which
without reaching any agreement or coming to a was considered the First Rule of behavior
conclusion. towards all by all.
 Go south: If things go south, they get worse or  Golden touch: Someone with a golden touch
go wrong. can make money from or be successful at
 Go spare: (UK) If you go spare, you lose your anything they do.
temper completely.  Gone fishing: If someone has gone fishing, they
 Go the extra mile: If someone is prepared to go are not very aware of what is happening around
the extra mile, they will do everything they can them.
to help or to make something succeed, going  Gone for a Burton: (UK) If something's gone for
a Burton, it has been spoiled or ruined. If a

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person has gone for a Burton, they are either in  Goody two-shoes: A goody two-shoes is a self-
serious trouble or have died. righteous person who makes a great deal of
 Gone pear-shaped: (UK) If things have gone their virtue.
pear-shaped they have either gone wrong or  Go-to guy: A go-to guy is a person whose
produced an unexpected and unwanted result. knowledge of something is considerable so
 Gone to pot: If something has gone to pot, it everyone wants to go to him or her for
has gone wrong and doesn't work any more. information or results.
 Gone to the dogs: If something has gone to the  Grab the bulls by its horns: If you grab (take)
dogs, it has gone badly wrong and lost all the the bull by its horns, you deal head-on and
good things it had. directly with a problem.
 Good antennae: Someone with good antennae  Grain of salt: If you should take something with
is good at detecting things. a grain of salt, you shouldn't necessarily believe
 Good egg: A person who can be relied on is a it all. ('pinch of salt' is an alternative)
good egg. Bad egg is the opposite.  Grasp the nettle: (UK) If you grasp the nettle,
 Good fences make good neighbors: This means you deal bravely with a problem.
that it is better for people to mind their own  Grass roots: This idiom is often used in politics,
business and to respect the privacy of others. where it refers to the ordinary people or voters.
('Good fences make good neighbors' is the It can be used to mean people at the bottom of
American English spelling.) a hierarchy.
 Good hand: If you are a good hand at  Grass widow: A grass widow is a woman whose
something, you do it well. husband is often away on work, leaving her on
 Good Samaritan: A Good Samaritan is a person her own.
who helps others in need.  Graveyard shift: If you have to work very late at
 Good shape: If something's in good shape, it's night, it is the graveyard shift.
in good condition. If a person's in good shape,  Gravy train: If someone is on the gravy train,
they are fit and healthy. they have found and easy way to make lots of
 Good spell: A spell can mean a fairly or money.
relatively short period of time; you'll hear  Grease monkey: A grease monkey is an
weather forecasts predict a dry spell. Sports idiomatic term for a mechanic.
commentators will say that a sportsperson is  Grease someone's palm: If you grease
going through a good spell when they're someone's palm, you bribe them to do
performing consistently better than they something.
normally do.  Grease the skids: If you grease the skids, you
 Good time: If you make good time on a journey, facilitate something.
you manage to travel faster than you expected.  Greased lightning: If something or someone
 Good to go: Someone or something that meets moves like greased lightning, they move very
one's approval. 'He is good to go.' 'The idea you fast indeed.
had is good to go.'  Great guns: If something or someone is going
 Good walls make good neighbours: Your great guns, they are doing very well.
relationship with your neighbours depends,  Great Scott: An exclamation of surprise
among other things, on respecting one  Great unwashed: This is a term used for the
another's privacy. working class masses.

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213
 Great white hope: Someone who is expected to  Guinea-pig: If you are a guinea-pig, you take
be a great success is a great white hope. part in an experiment of some sort and are
 Greek to me: If you don't understand used in the testing.
something, it's all Greek to you.  Gunboat diplomacy: If a nation conducts its
 Green around the gills: If someone looks green diplomatic relations by threatening military
around the gills, they look ill. action to get what it wants, it is using gunboat
 Green fingers: (UK) someone with green fingers diplomacy.
has a talent for gardening.  Gung ho: If someone is gung ho about
 Green light: If you are given the green light, you something, they support it blindly and don't
are given approval to do something. think about the consequences.
 Green thumb: (USA) someone with a talent for  Hail-fellow-well-met: Someone whose behavior
gardening has a green thumb. is hearty, friendly and congenial
 Green with envy: If you are green with envy, you  Hair of the dog: If someone has a hair of the
are very jealous. dog, they have an alcoholic drink as a way of
 Green-eyed monster: The green-eyed monster getting rid of a hangover, the unpleasant
is an allegorical phrase for somebody's strong effects of having drunk too much alcohol the
jealousy night before. It is commonly used as a way of
 Greenhorn: A greenhorn or someone who is excusing having a drink early on in the day.
described simply as green lacks the relevant  Hairy at the heel: (UK) Someone who is hairy at
experience and knowledge for their job or task the heel is dangerous or untrustworthy.
 Grey area: A grey/gray area is one where there  Hale and hearty: Someone who is hale and
is no clear right or wrong. hearty is in very good health.
 Grey Cardinal: Someone who is a Grey Cardinal  Half a mind: If you have half a mind to do
exerts power behind the scenes, without something, you haven't decided to do it, but are
drawing attention to himself or herself. thinking seriously about doing it.
 Grey matter: Grey/gray matter is the human  Half-baked: A half-baked idea or scheme hasn't
brain. not been thought through or planned very well.
 Grey pound: (UK) In the UK, the grey pound is  Hammer and tongs: If people are going at it
an idiom for the economic power of elderly hammer and tongs, they are arguing fiercely.
people. The idiom can also be used hen people are
 Grey suits: The men in grey suits are people doing something energetically.
who have a lot of power in business or politics,  Hand in glove: If people are hand in glove, they
but aren't well-known or charismatic. have an extremely close relationship.
 Grin and bear it: If you have to grin and bear it,  Hand in hand: Hand in hand= work together
you have to accept something that you don't closely When people in a group, say in an office
like. or in a project, work together with mutual
 Grin like a Cheshire cat: If someone has a very understanding to achieve the target, we say
wide smile, they have a grin like a Cheshire cat. they work hand in hand. There is no lack of co-
 Grist for the mill: Something that you can use operation and each synchoranises the activity
to your advantage is grist for the mill. ('Grist to with that of the other.
the mill' is also used.)  Hand that rocks the cradle: Women have a
great power and influence because they have

214
the greatest influence over the development of  Hard cheese: (UK) Hard cheese means hard
children- the hand that rocks the cradle. ('The luck.
hand that rocks the cradle rules the world' is  Hard of hearing: Someone who's hard of
the full form.) hearing is a bit deaf.
 Hand to mouth: Someone who's living from  Hard on someone's heels: If you are hard on
hand to mouth is very poor and needs the little someone's heels, you are close to them and
money they have coming in to cover their trying to catch or overtake them. ('Hot on
expenses. someone's heels' is also used.)
 Hands down: If someone is better hands down  Hard sell: If someone puts a lot of pressure on
than everyone else, they are much better. you to do or buy something, they are hard
 Handwriting like chicken scratch: If your selling it.
handwriting is very hard to read, it is like  Hard to come by: If something is hard to come
chicken scratch. by, it is difficult to find.
 Hang by a thread: If something hangs by a  Hard up: If you are hard up, you have very little
thread, there is a very small chance indeed of it money.
being successful or surviving.  Haste makes waste: This idiom means that if
 Hang in the balance: If an outcome is hanging you try to do something quickly, without
in the balance, there are at least two planning it, you're likely to end up spending
possibilities and it is impossible to predict more time, money, etc, doing it.
which will win out.  Hat trick: Three successes one after the other is
 Hang out to dry: If you hang someone out to a hat trick.
dry, you abandon them when they are in  Hatchet job: A piece of criticism that destroys
trouble. someone's reputation is a hatchet job.
 Hangdog expression: A hangdog expression is  Have a ball: If you have a ball, you have a great
one where the person's showing their emotions time, a lot of fun.
very clearly, maybe a little too clearly for your  Have a bash: If you have a bash at something,
liking. It's that mixture of misery and self-pity you try to do it, especially when there isn't
that is similar to a dog when it's trying to get much chance of success.
something it wants but daren't take without  Have a go: If you have a go, you try to do
permission. something, often when you don't think you
 Hanged for a sheep as a lamb: This is an have much chance of succeeding.
expression meaning that if you are going to get  Have a heart: If someone has a heart, they are
into trouble for doing something, then you kind and sympathetic. If you say, 'Have a heart'
ought to stop worrying and should try to get to someone, you are asking them to be
everything you can before you get caught. understanding and sympathetic.
 Happy medium: If you reach a happy medium,  Have a ripper: If you have a ripper of a time, you
you are making a compromise; reaching a enjoy yourself.
conclusion or decision.  Have a trick up your sleeve: If you have a trick
 Hard as nails: A person who is as hard as nails up your sleeve, you have a secret strategy to
is either physically tough or has little or no use when the time is right.
respect for other people's feelings.  Have the floor: If someone has the floor, it is
their turn to speak at a meeting.

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215
 Have your cake and eat it too: If someone  Head south: If something head south, it begins
wants to have their cake and eat it too, they to fail or start going bad. ‘The project
want everything their way, especially when their proceeded well for the first two months, but
wishes are contradictory. then it headed south.'
 Have your collar felt: If someone has their  Heads will roll: If heads will roll, people will be
collar felt, they are arrested. punished or sacked for something that has
 Have your fill: If you have had your fill, you are gone wrong.
fed up of somebody or something.  Headstrong: A headstrong person is obstinate
 Have your moments: Someone who has his or and does not take other people's advice readily.
her moments exhibits a positive behavior  Heads-up: A heads-up is advanced information
pattern on an occasional basis but not or a warning
generally.  Healthy as a horse: If you're as healthy as a
 Have your tail up: If someone has their tail up, horse, you're very healthy.
they are optimistic and expect to be successful.  Hear a pin drop: If there is complete silence in a
 Have your work cut out: If you have your work room, you can hear a pin drop.
cut out, you are very busy indeed.  Hear on the grapevine: To receive information
 Having a gas: If you're having a gas, you are indirectly through a series of third parties,
having a laugh and enjoying yourself in similar to a rumour
company.  Heart in the right place: If someone's heart is in
 Hay is for horses: This idiom is used as a way the right place, they are good and kind, though
of telling children not to say the word 'hey' as in they might not always appear to be so.
hey you or hey there.  Heart in your boots: If you're heart is in your
 He that travels far knows much: People who boots, you are very unhappy.
travel widely have a wide knowledge.  Heart in your mouth: If your heart is in your
 Head for the hills: If people head for the hills, mouth, then you feel nervous or scared.
they run away from trouble.  Heart isn't in it: If your heart is not in
 Head is in the clouds: If a person has their head something, then you don't really believe in it or
in the clouds, they have unrealistic, impractical support it.
ideas.  Heart misses a beat: If your heart misses a
 Head nor tail: If you can't make head nor tail of beat, you are suddenly shocked or surprised.
something, you cannot understand it at all or ('Heart skips a beat' is an alternative)
make any sense of it.  Heart of gold: Someone with a heart of gold is a
 Head on a spike: If someone wants a head on a genuinely kind and caring person.
spike, they want to be able to destroy or really  Heart-to-heart: A heart-to-heart is a frank and
punish a person. honest conversation with someone, where you
 Head on the block: If someone's head is on the talk honestly and plainly about issues, no
block, they are going to be held responsible and matter how painful.
suffer the consequences for something that  Heaven knows: If you ask someone a question
has gone wrong. and they say this, they have no idea.
 Head over heels in love: When someone falls  Heavenly bodies: The heavenly bodies are the
passionately in love and is intoxicated by the stars.
feeling has fallen head over heels in love.

216
 Heavy-handed: If someone is heavy-handed,  Hit a nerve: If something hits a nerve, it upsets

they are insensitive and use excessive force or someone or causes them pain, often when it is
authority when dealing with a problem. something they are trying to hide.
 Hedge your bets: If you hedge your bets, you  Hit and miss: Something that is hit and miss is
don't risk everything on one opportunity, but try unpredictable and may produce results or may
more than one thing. fail.
 Hell for leather: If you do something hell for  Hit me with your best shot: If someone tells you
leather, especially running, you do it as fast as to hit them with your best shot, they are telling
you can. you that no matter what you do it won't hurt
 Hell in a handcart: If something is going to hell them or make a difference to them.
in a handcart, it is getting worse and worse,  Hit rough weather: If you hit rough weather, you
with no hope of stopping the decline. experience difficulties or problems.
 He'll rue the day: He'll rue the day that he  Hit the airwaves: If someone hits the airwaves,
crossed me. This means that the person will they go on radio and TV to promote something
one day bitterly regret what they have done. or to tell their side of a story.
 Herding cats: If you have to try to co-ordinate a  Hit the books: If you hit the books, you study or
very difficult situation, where people want to do read hard.
very different things, you are herding cats.  Hit the bull's-eye: If someone hits the bull's-
 Here today, gone tomorrow: Money, happiness eye, they are exactly right about something or
and other desirable things are often here today, achieve the best result possible. "Bulls-eye"
gone tomorrow, which means that they don't and "bulls eye" are alternative spellings.
last for very long.  Hit the ceiling: If someone hits the ceiling, they
 Hiding to nothing: If people are on a hiding to lose their temper and become very angry.
nothing, their schemes and plans have no  Hit the fan: When it hits the fan, or, more rudely,
chance of succeeding. 'Hiding to nowhere' is an the shit hits the fan, serious trouble starts.
alternative.  Hit the ground running: If someone hits the
 High and dry: If you are left high and dry, you ground running, they start a new job or position
are left alone and given no help at all when you in a very dynamic manner.
need it.  Hit the hay: When you hit the hay, you go to
 High and mighty: The High And Mighty are the bed.
people with authority and power. If a person is  Hit the mark: If someone hits the mark, they are
high and mighty, they behave in a superior and right about something.
condescending way.  Hit the nail on the head: If someone hits the nail
 High-handed: If someone is high-handed, they on the head, they are exactly right about
behave arrogantly and pompously. something.
 High-wire act: A high-wire act is a dangerous or  Hit the road: When people hit the road, they
risky strategy, plan, task, etc. leave a place to go somewhere else.
 Himalayan blunder: A Himalayan blunder is a  Hit the roof: If you lose your temper and get
very serious mistake or error. very angry, you hit the roof.
 Hindsight is twenty-twenty: After something  Hit the sack: When you hit the sack, you go to
has gone wrong, it is easy to look back and bed.
make criticisms.

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217
 Hive of worker bees: A hive of worker bees is a  Home and hearth: 'Home and hearth' is an
group of people working actively and idiom evoking warmth and security.
cooperatively. Example: The classroom was a  Home stretch: The home stretch is the last part
hive of worker bees. of something, like a journey, race or project.
 Hobson's choice: A Hobson's choice is  Home, James: (UK) This is a clichéd way of
something that appears to be a free choice, but telling the driver of a vehicle to start driving. It
is really no choice as there is no genuine is supposed to be an order to a chauffeur (a
alternative. privately employed driver). The full phrase is
 Hoist with your own petard: If you are hoist 'Home, James, and don't spare the horses'.
with your own petard, you get into trouble or  Honest truth: If someone claims that
caught in a trap that you had set for someone something is the honest truth, they wish to
else. sound extra-sincere about something.
 Hold all the aces: If you hold all the aces, you  Honor among thieves: If someone says there is
have all the advantages and your opponents or honor among thieves, this means that even
rivals are in a weak position. corrupt or bad people sometimes have a sense
 Hold the baby: (UK) If someone is responsible of honor or integrity, or justice, even if it is
for something, they are holding the baby. skewed. ('Honour among thieves' is the British
 Hold the bag: (USA) If someone is responsible English version.)
for something, they are holding the bag.  Honours are even: If honours are even, then a
 Hold the fort: If you hold the fort, you look after competition has ended with neither side
something or assume someone's emerging as a winner.
responsibilities while they are away.  Hook, line, and sinker: If somebody accepts or
 Hold the torch: If you hold the torch for believes something hook, line, and sinker, they
someone, you have an unrequited or unspoken accept it completely.
love.  Hop, skip, and a jump: If a place is a hop, skip,
 Hold your horses: If someone tells you to hold and a jump from somewhere, it's only a short
your horses, you are doing something too fast distance away.
and they would like you to slow down.  Hope against hope: If you hope against hope,
 Hold your own: If you can hold your own, you you hope for something even though there is
can compete or perform equally with other little or no chance of your wish being fulfilled.
people.  Hope in hell: If something hasn't got a hope in
 Hold your tongue: If you hold your tongue, you hell, it stands absolutely no chance of
keep silent even though you want to speak. succeeding.
 Holier-than-thou: Someone who is holier-than-  Hornets' nest: A hornets' nest is a violent
thou believes that they are morally superior to situation or one with a lot of dispute. (If you
other people. create the problem, you 'stir up a hornets'
 Hollow victory: A hollow victory is where nest'.)
someone wins something in name, but are seen  Horns of a dilemma: If you are on the horns of a
not to have gained anything by winning. dilemma, you are faced with two equally
 Holy smoke : This is a way of expressing unpleasant options and have to choose one.
surprise: "Holy smoke! Look at all of those
geese!"

218
 Horse of a different color: (USA) If something is  How come: If you want to show disbelief or
a horse of a different color, it's a different surprise about an action, you can ask a
matter or separate issue altogether. question using 'how come'. How come he got
 Horse trading: Horse trading is an idiom used the job? (You can't believe that they gave the
to describe negotiations, especially where job to somebody like him)
these are difficult and involve a lot of  How do you like them apples: (USA) This
compromise. idiomatic expression is used to express
 Horses for courses: Horses for courses means surprise or shock at something that has
that what is suitable for one person or situation happened. It can also be used to boast about
might be unsuitable for another. something you have done.
 Hostile takeover: If a company is bought out  How long is a piece of string: If someone has
when it does not want to be, it is known as a no idea of the answer to a question, they can
hostile takeover. ask 'How long is a piece of string?' as a way of
 Hot air: Language that is full of words but indicating their ignorance.
means little or nothing is hot air.  How's tricks : This is used as a way of asking
 Hot as blue blazes: If something's as hot as people how they are and how things have been
blue blazes, it's extremely hot. going in their life.
 Hot as Hades: If something's as hot as Hades,  Hue and cry: Hue and cry is an expression that
it's extremely hot. used to mean all the people who joined in
 Hot button: (USA) A hot button is a topic or chasing a criminal or villain. Nowadays, if you
issue that people feel very strongly about. do something without hue and cry, you do it
 Hot foot: If you hot foot it out of a place, you discreetly and without drawing attention.
leave very quickly, often running.  Hung the moon: If you refer to someone as
 Hot ticket: (USA) A hot ticket is something that having hung the moon, you think they are
is very much in demand at the moment. extremely wonderful, or amazing, or good.
 Hot to trot: If someone is hot to trot, they are  Hungry as a bear: If you are hungry as a bear, it
sexually aroused or eager to do something. means that you are really hungry.
 Hot under the collar: If you're hot under the  Hunky Dory: If something is hunky dory, it is
collar, you're feeling angry or bothered. perfectly satisfactory, fine.
 Hot water: If you get into hot water, you get into  I hereby give notice of my intention: Hereby is
trouble. used sometimes in formal, official declarations
 Hot-blooded: Someone who is hot-blooded is and statements to give greater force to the
easily excitable or passionate. speaker' or the writer's affirmation. People will
 Hot-headed: A hot-headed person gets angry say it sometimes to emphasise their sincerity
very easily. (The noun 'hothead' can also be and correctness.
used.)  I may be daft, but I'm not stupid: I might do or
 Hour of need: A time when someone really say silly things occasionally, but in this
needs something, almost a last chance, is their instance I know what I am doing (Usually used
hour of need. when someone questions your application of
 House of cards: Something that is poorly common-sense).
thought out and can easily collapse or fail is a
house of cards.

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
219
 I should cocoa: (UK) This idiom comes from 'I particular high risk and/or high profile situation
should think so', but is normally used and benefit from the rewards of that
sarcastically to mean the opposite. association, you have to accept the
 Icing on the cake: This expression is used to consequences if things go wrong - you cannot
refer to something good that happens on top of dissociate yourself.
an already good thing or situation.  If you lie down with dogs, you will get up with
 Idle hands are the devil's handiwork: When fleas: This means that if you become involved
someone is not busy, or being productive, with bad company, there will be negative
trouble is bound to follow. consequences.
 If at first you don't succeed try again: When you  If you will: 'If you will' is used as a way of
fail, try until you get it right! making a concession in a sentence: He wasn't a
 If I had a nickel for every time: (USA) When very honest person, a liar if you will. Here, it is
someone uses this expression, they mean that used a way of accepting that the reader or
the specific thing happens a lot. It is an listener might think of the person as a liar, but
abbreviation of the statement 'If I had a nickel without commit the writer or speaker to that
for every time that happened, I would be rich' position fully.
 If it isn't broke, don't fix it: Any attempt to  If you'll pardon my French: (UK) This idiom is
improve on a system that already works is used as a way of apologising for swearing.
pointless and may even hurt it.  I'll at ease: If someone is ill at ease, they are
 If Mohammed won't come to the mountain, the worried or uncomfortable.
mountain must come to Mohammed: If  I'll cross that road when I come to it: I'll think
something cannot or will not happen the easy about something just when it happens, not in
way, then sometimes it must be done the hard advance.
way.  I'll eat my hat: You can say this when you are
 If the cap fits, wear it: This idiom means that if absolutely sure that you are right to let the
the description is correct, then it is describing other person know that there is no chance of
the truth, often when someone is being your being wrong.
criticised. ('If the shoe fits, wear it' is an  I'll -gotten gains: I'll -gotten gains are profits
alternative) or benefits that are made either illegally or
 If wishes were horses, beggars would ride: If we unfairly.
could have things the way we wanted them,  In a cleft stick: If you are in a cleft stick, you are
then life would be much easier than it is. in a difficult situation, caught between choices.
 If wishes were horses, beggars would ride: This  In a fix: If you are in a fix, you are in trouble.
means that wishing for something or wanting it  In a flash: If something happens in a flash, it
is not the same as getting or having it. happens very quickly indeed.
 If you can't stand the heat, get out of the  In a heartbeat: If something happens very
kitchen: Originally a Harry S. Truman quote, quickly or immediately, it happens in a
this means that if you can't take the pressure, heartbeat.
then you should remove yourself from the  In a jam: If you are in a jam, you are in some
situation. trouble. If you get out of a jam, you avoid
 If you fly with the crows, you get shot with the trouble.
crows: If you wish to be associated with a

220
 In a jiffy: If something happens in a jiffy, it intervals, instead of all arriving at the same
happens very quickly. time.
 In a nutshell: This idiom is used to introduce a  In droves: When things happen in droves, a lot
concise summary. happen at the same time or very quickly.
 In a pickle: If you are in a pickle you are in some  In for a penny, in for a pound: If something is
trouble or a mess. worth doing then it is a case of in for a penny,
 In a pickle: If you are in a pickle, you are in in for a pound, which means that when
some trouble or a mess. gambling or taking a chance, you might as well
 In a rut: In a settled or established pattern, go the whole way and take all the risks, not just
habit or course of action, especially a boring some.
one.  In full swing: If things are in full swing, they
 In a tick: (UK) If someone will do something in a have been going for a sufficient period of time
tick, they'll do it very soon or very quickly. to be going well and very actively.
 In a tight spot: If you're in a tight spot, you're in  In high gear: (USA) If something is in high gear,
a difficult situation. it is in a quick-paced mode. If someone is in
 In all honesty: If you say something in all high gear, they are feverishly on the fast track.
honesty, you are telling the complete truth. It  In high spirits: If someone is in high spirits, they
can be used as a way of introducing a negative are in a very good mood or feeling confident
opinion whilst trying to be polite; in all honesty, about something.
I have to say that I wasn't very impressed.  In hot water: If you are in hot water, you are in
 In an instant: If something happens in an serious trouble.
instant, it happens very rapidly.  In light of: 'In light of' is similar to 'due to'.
 In another's shoes: It is difficult to know what  In like Flynn: Refers to Errol Flynn's popularity
another person's life is really like, so we don't with women in the 40's. His ability to attract
know what it is like to be in someone's shoes. women was well known throughout the world.
 In broad daylight: If a crime or problem ('In like flint' is also used.)
happens in broad daylight, it happens during  In my bad books: If you are in someone's bad
the day and should have been seen and books, they are angry with you. Likewise, if you
stopped. are in their good books, they are pleased with
 In cahoots: If people are in cahoots, they are you.
conspiring together.  In my book: This idiom means 'in my opinion'.
 In cold blood: If something is done in cold  In my good books: If someone is in your good
blood, it is done ruthlessly, without any books, you are pleased with or think highly of
emotion. them at the moment.
 In dire straits: If you're in dire straits, you're in  In one ear and out the other: If something goes
serious trouble or difficulties. in one ear and out the other, you forget it as
 In donkey's years: 'I haven't seen her in soon as you've heard it because it was too
donkey's years.' - This means for a very long complicated, boring etc.
time.  In over your head: If someone is in over their
 In dribs and drabs: If people arrive in dribs and head, they are out of the depth in something
drabs, they come in small groups at irregular they are involved in, and may end up in a mess.

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 In perfect form: When something is as it ought  In the doghouse: If someone is in the

to be. Or, when used cynically, it may refer to doghouse, they are in disgrace and very
someone whose excesses are on display; a unpopular at the moment.
caricature.  In the driver's seat: If you are in the driver's
 In rude health: (UK) If someone's in rude health, seat, you are in charge of something or in
they are very healthy and look it. control of a situation.
 In so many words: This phrase may be used to  In the face of: If people act in the face of
mean 'approximately' or 'more or less'. I think it something, they do it despite it or when
may have a sarcastic connotation in that the threatened by it.
individual listening needed 'so many words' to  In the family way: If a woman is in the family
get the point. It also may suggest the effort on way, she is pregnant.
the part of the speaker to explain an unpleasant  In the flesh: If you meet or see someone in the
truth or difficult concept. flesh you actually meet or see them, rather than
 In someone's pocket: If a person is in seeing them on TV or in other media.
someone's pocket, they are dependent,  In the hot seat: If someone's in the hot seat,
especially financially, on them. they are the target for a lot of unwelcome
 In spades: (UK) If you have something in criticism and examination.
spades, you have a lot of it.  In the know: If you are in the know, you have
 In stitches: If someone is in stitches, they are access to all the information about something,
laughing uncontrollably. which other people don't have.
 In tandem: If people do things in tandem, they  In the long run: This means 'over a long period
do them at the same time. of time', 'in the end' or 'in the final result'.
 In the bag: If something is in the bag, it is  In the loop: If you're in the loop, you are fully
certain that you will get it or achieve it informed about what is happening in a certain
 In the ballpark: This means that something is area or activity.
close to the adequate or required value.  In the making: When something is in the
 In the black: If your bank account is in credit, it making, it means it is in the process of being
is in the black. made.
 In the cards: If something is in the cards, it is  In the offing: If something is in the offing, it is
bound to occur, it is going to happen, or it is very likely to happen soon.
inevitable.  In the pink: If you are in very good health, you
 In the clear: If someone is in the clear, they are are in the pink.
no longer suspected of or charged with  In the pipeline: If something's in the pipeline, it
wrongdoing. hasn't arrived yet but its arrival is expected.
 In the clink: (UK) If someone is in the clink, they  In the red: If your bank account is overdrawn, it
are in prison. is in the red.
 In the club: (UK) If a woman's in the club, she's  In the same boat: If people are in the same
pregnant. 'In the pudding club' is an alternative boat, they are in the same predicament or
form. trouble.
 In the dock: If someone is in the dock, they are  In the short run: This refers to the immediate
on trial in court. future.

222
 In the soup: If you're in the soup, you're in  Ins and outs: If you know the ins and outs of
trouble. something, you know all the details.
 In the swim: If you are in the swim, you are up-  Into each life some rain must fall: This means
to-date with and fully informed about that bad or unfortunate things will happen to
something. everyone at some time.
 In the swing: If things are in the swing, they are  Into thin air: If something vanishes or
progressing well. disappears without trace, it vanishes into thin
 In the tall cotton: A phrase that expresses good air; no-one knows where it has gone.
times or times of plenty and wealth as tall  Iron fist: Someone who rules or controls
cotton means a good crop. something with an iron fist is in absolute
 In the twinkling of an eye: If something control and tolerates no dissent. An iron fist in
happens in the twinkling of an eye, it happens a velvet glove is used to describe someone who
very quickly. appears soft on the outside, but underneath is
 In the zone: If you are in the zone, you are very very hard. 'Mailed fist' is an alternative form.
focused on what you have to do.  Irons in the fire: A person who has a few irons
 In turn: This means one after the other. in the fire has a number of things working to
Example: She spoke to each of the guests in their advantage at the same time.
turn.  Is Saul also among the prophets? : It's a biblical
 In two minds: If you are in two minds about idiom used when somebody known for
something, you can't decide what to do. something bad appears all of a sudden to be
 In your blood: A trait or liking that is deeply doing something very good.
ingrained in someone's personality and unlikely  It ain't over till the fat lady sings: This idiom
to change is in their blood. A similar idiom is 'in means that until something has officially
his DNA.' finished, the result is uncertain.
 In your element: If you are in your element, you  It cost an arm and a leg: If something costs an
feel happy and relaxed because you are doing arm and a leg, it is very expensive indeed.
something that you like doing and are good at.  It cost the earth: If something costs the earth, it
"You should have seen her when they asked her is very expensive indeed.
to sing; she was in her element."  It never rains but it pours: 'It never rains but it
 In your face: If someone is in your face, they are pours' means that when things go wrong, they
direct and confrontational. (It is sometime go very wrong.
written 'in yer face’ colloquially)  It takes a village to raise a child: It takes many
 In your sights: If you have someone or people to teach a child all that he or she should
something in your sights, they are your target know.
to beat.  It takes two to tango: This idiom is used to
 Indian file: If people walk in Indian file, they suggest that when things go wrong, both sides
walk in a line one behind the other. are involved and neither side is completely
 Indian giver: An Indian giver gives something innocent.
then tries to take it back.  Itch to: If you are itching to do something, you
 Indian summer: If there is a period of warmer are very eager to do it.
weather in late autumn, it is an Indian summer.

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 Itchy feet: One gets itchy feet when one has proceedings, or to an unidentified person in
been in one place for a time and wants to hospital, or dead. John Doe is the male
travel. equivalent.
 It's an ill wind that blows no good: This is said  Jekyll and Hyde: Someone who has a Jekyll
when things have gone wrong; the idea being and Hyde personality has a pleasant and a very
that when bad things happen, there can also be unpleasant side to the character.
some positive results.  Jersey justice: (UK) Jersey justice is very
 It's no use crying over spilt milk: This idiom severe justice.
means that getting upset after something has  Jet-black: To emphasise just how black
gone wrong is pointless; it can't be changed so something is, such as someone's hair, we can
it should be accepted. call it jet-black.
 It's not the size of the man in the fight, it's the  Job's comforter: Someone who says they want
size of the fight in the man: This idiom means to comfort, but actually discomforts people is a
that determination is often more important Job's comforter. (Job's is pronounced 'jobes',
than size, strength, or ability. ('It's not the size not 'jobs')
of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight  Jobs for the boys: Where people give jobs,
in the dog.' is also used.) contracts, etc, to their friends and associates,
 It's your funeral: The other person has made a these are jobs for the boys.
decision that you think is bad. However, it is  Jockey for position: If a number of people want
their choice; it is their funeral. the same opportunity and are struggling to
 I've got a bone to pick with you: If somebody emerge as the most likely candidate, they are
says this, they mean that they have some jockeying for position.
complaint to make against the person they are  Jog my memory: If you jog someone's memory,
addressing. you say words that will help someone trying to
 I've got your number: You have made a mistake remember a thought, event, word, phrase,
and I am going to call you on it. You are in experience, etc.
trouble (a threat). I have a disagreement with  John Doe: John Doe is a name given to an
you. I understand your true nature. unidentified male who may be party to legal
 Ivory tower: People who live in ivory towers are proceedings, or to an unidentified person in
detached from the world around them. hospital, or dead. Jane Doe is the female
 Jack Frost: If everything has frozen in winter, equivalent.
then Jack Frost has visited.  John Q Public: (USA) John Q Public is the
 Jack-of-all-trades: A jack-of-all-trades is typical, average person.
someone that can do many different jobs.  Johnny on the spot: A person who is always
 Jam on your face: If you say that someone has available; ready, willing, and able to do what
jam on their face, they appear to be caught, needs to be done.('Johnny-on-the-spot' is also
embarrassed or found guilty. used.)
 Jam tomorrow: (UK) This idiom is used when  Johnny-come-lately: A Johnny-come-lately is
people promise good things for the future that someone who has recently joined something or
will never come. arrived somewhere, especially when they want
 Jane Doe: Jane Doe is a name given to an to make changes that are not welcome.
unidentified female who may be party to legal

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 Joined at the hip: If people are joined at the hip,  Just coming up to: If the time is just coming up
they are very closely connected and think the to nine o'clock, it means that it will be nine
same way. o'clock in a very few seconds. You'll hear them
 Judge, jury and executioner: If someone is said say it on the radio in the morning.
to be the judge, jury, and executioner, it means  Just deserts: If a bad or evil person gets their
they are in charge of every decision made, and just deserts, they get the punishment or suffer
they have the power to be rid of whomever they the misfortune that it is felt they deserve.
choose.  Just for the heck of it: When someone does
 Juggle frogs: If you are juggling frogs, you are something just for the heck of it, they do it
trying to do something very difficult. without a good reason.
 Jump down someone's throat: If you jump  Just for the record: If something is said to be
down someone's throat, you criticize or just for the record, the person is saying it so
chastise them severely. that people know but does not necessarily
 Jump on the bandwagon: If people jump on the agree with or support it.
bandwagon, they get involved in something  Just in the nick of time: If you do something in
that has recently become very popular. the nick of time, you just manage to do it just in
 Jump the gun: If you jump the gun, you start time, with seconds to spare.
doing something before the appropriate time.  Just off the boat: If someone is just off the
 Jump the shark: Said of a salient point in a boat, they are naive and inexperienced.
television show or other activity at which the  Just what the doctor ordered: If something's
popularity thereof begins to wane: The just what the doctor ordered, it is precisely
Flintstones jumped the shark when a man from what is needed.
outer space came to visit them. The expression  Kangaroo court: When people take the law into
derives from an episode of the television their own hands and form courts that are not
sitcom 'Happy Days' in which Fonzie, clad in legal, these are known as kangaroo court.
leather jacket and on water skis, jumps over a  Keen as mustard: (UK) If someone is very
shark. That episode was widely seen as the enthusiastic, they are as keen as mustard.
beginning of the end for the formerly popular  Keep abreast: If you keep abreast of things, you
series. stay informed about developments.
 Jump through hoops: If you are prepared to  Keep at bay: If you keep someone or something
jump through hoops for someone, you are at bay, you maintain a safe distance from them.
prepared to make great efforts and sacrifices  Keep body and soul together: If you earn
for them. enough to cover your basic expenses, but
 Jungle out there: If someone says that it is a nothing more than that, you earn enough to
jungle out there, they mean that the situation is keep body and soul together.
dangerous and there are no rules.  Keep in touch: If you keep in touch with
 Jury's out: If the jury's out on an issue, then someone, you keep communicating with them
there is no general agreement or consensus on even though you may live far apart.
it.  Keep it under your hat: If you keep something
 Just around the corner: If something is just under your hat, you keep it secret.
around the corner, then it is expected to happen  Keep mum: If you keep mum about something,
very soon. you keep quiet and don't tell anyone.

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 Keep posted: If you keep posted about  Keep your nose clean: If someone is trying to
something, you keep up-to-date with keep their Nose Clean, they are trying to stay
information and developments. out of trouble by not getting involved in any
 Keep someone at arm's length: If you keep sort of wrong-doing.
someone or something at arm's length, you  Keep your nose to the grindstone: If you keep
keep a safe distance away from them. your nose to the grindstone, you work hard and
 Keep the wolf at bay: If you keep the wolf at seriously.
bay, you make enough money to avoid going  Keep your options open: If someone's keeping
hungry or falling heavily into debt. their options open, they aren't going to restrict
 Keep up with the Joneses: People who try to themselves or rule out any possible course of
keep up with the Joneses are competitive about action.
material possessions and always try to have  Keep your pecker up: If someone tells you to
the latest and best things. keep your pecker up, they are telling you not to
 Keep your chin up: (UK) This expression is used let your problems get on top of you and to try to
to tell someone to have confidence. be optimistic.
 Keep your cool: If you keep your cool, you don't  Keep your powder dry: If you keep your powder
get excessively excited or disturbed in a bad dry, you act cautiously so as not to damage
situation. your chances.
 Keep your ear to the ground: If you keep your  Keep your shirt on! : This idiom is used to tell
ear to the ground, you try to keep informed someone to calm down.
about something, especially if there are rumors  Keep your wig on! : (UK) This idiom is used to
or uncertainties. tell someone to calm down.
 Keep your eye on the ball: If you keep your eye  Kettle of fish: A pretty or fine kettle of fish is a
on the ball, you stay alert and pay close difficult problem or situation.
attention to what is happening.  Kick a habit: If you kick a habit, you stop doing
 Keep your eye on the prize: This means that it.
you should keep your focus on achieving a  Kick away the ladder: If someone kicks away
positive end result. the ladder, they remove something that was
 Keep your eyes peeled: If you keep your eyes supporting or helping someone.
peeled, you stay alert or watchful.  Kick in the teeth: Bad news or a sudden
 Keep your fingers crossed: If you are keeping disappointment is a kick in the teeth.
your fingers crossed, you are hoping for a  Kick something into the long grass: If an issue
positive outcome. or problem is kicked into the long grass, it is
 Keep your hair on: Keep your hair on is advice pushed aside and hidden in the hope that it will
telling someone to keep calm and not to over- be forgotten or ignored.
react or get angry.  Kick the ballistics: It means you realize the
 Keep your head above water: If you are just intensity of a situation. For example, there is
managing to survive financially, you are too much unemployment now, so the prime
keeping your head above water. minister must kick the ballistics and change his
 Keep your head: If you keep your head, you stay policy.
calm in times of difficulty.  Kick the bucket: When someone kicks the
bucket, they die.

226
 Kick up your heels: (USA) If you kick up your nominate to deal with your affairs in the event
heels, you go to parties or celebrate something. of your death on a document, like a passport.
 Kick your heels: (UK) If you have to kick your  Knee-jerk reaction: A knee-jerk reaction is an
heels, you are forced to wait for the result or instant, instinctive response to a situation.
outcome of something.  Knickers in a twist: When your knickers are in a
 Kicked to touch: Touch is a zone of the playing twist, you are angry and snappish over
field in Rugby. Kicked to touch means the ball something trivial. 'Whenever he loses his car
was put safely out of play. Idiomatic usage keys, he gets his knickers in a twist.'
usually means a person has deftly avoided an  Knight in shining armor: A knight in shining
issue in argument. armor is someone who saves you when you are
 Kid gloves: If someone is handled with kid in great trouble or danger.
gloves, they are given special treatment and  Knit your brows: If you knit your brows, you
handled with great care. frown or look worried.
 Kill the goose that lays the golden egg: If you  Knock 'em dead: 'Knock 'em dead' is used as a
kill the goose that lays the golden egg, you ruin way of wishing someone luck before they give a
something that is very profitable. performance or have to appear before people,
 Kill two birds with one stone: When you kill two as in an interview, etc. ('em = them)
birds with one stone, you resolve two  Knock on wood: This idiom is used to wish for
difficulties or matters with a single action. good luck. ('Touch wood' is also used.)
 Kindred spirit: A kindred spirit is someone who  Knock something on the head: If you knock
feels and thinks the way you do. something on the head, you stop it or stop
 King of the castle: The king of the castle is the doing it.
person who is in charge of something or in a  Knock the pins from under someone: If
very comfortable position compared to their someone knocks the pins from under you, they
companions. let you down.
 King's ransom: If something costs or is worth a  Knock your socks off: If something knocks your
king's ransom, it costs or is worth a lot of socks off, it amazes and surprises you, usually
money. in a positive way.
 Kiss and tell: If people kiss and tell, they  Know a hawk from a handsaw: If someone
disclose private or confidential information. knows a hawk from a handsaw, they are able to
 Kiss of death: The kiss of death is an action distinguish things and assess them.
that means failure or ruin for someone, a  Know full well: When you know full well, you are
scheme, a plan, etc. absolutely sure that you know.
 Kiss something goodbye: If someone tells you  Know the ropes: Someone who is experienced
that you can kiss something goodbye, you have and knows how the system works know the
no chance of getting or having it. ropes.
 Kissing cousin: A kissing cousin is someone  Know which side one's bread is buttered on: If
you are related to, but not closely. you know which side one's bread is buttered on,
 Kitchen-sink: (UK) Kitchen-sink drama deals you know where your interests lie and will act
with ordinary people's lives. accordingly to protect or further them.
 Kith and kin: Your kith and kin are your family;
your next of kin are close relations you

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227
 Know your onions: If someone is very well-  Last-ditch: A last-ditch attempt is a desperate
informed about something, they know their attempt that will probably fail anyway.
onions.  Laugh a minute: Someone who is a laugh a
 Know your place: A person who knows their minute is very funny.
place doesn't try to impose themselves on  Laugh to see a pudding crawl: (UK) someone
others. who would laugh to see a pudding crawl is
 Labor of love: A labor of love is a project or task easily amused and will laugh at anything.
undertaking for the interest or pleasure in doing  Laugh up your sleeve: If you laugh up your
it rather than the reward, financial or otherwise. sleeve, you laugh at someone secretly.
 Labour of love: A labour of love is a project or  Laughing stock: If someone becomes a
task undertaking for the interest or pleasure in laughing stock they do something so stupid or
doing it rather than the reward, financial or wrong that no one can take them seriously and
otherwise. people scorn and laugh at them.
 Lame duck: If something or someone is a lame  Laughter is the best medicine: Laughing is
duck, they are in trouble. often helpful for healing, especially emotional
 Land of nod: If someone has gone to the land of healing.
nod, they have fallen asleep or gone to bed.  Law unto yourself: If somebody's a law unto
 Landslide victory: A landslide victory is a themselves, they do what they believe is right
victory in an election by a very large margin. regardless of what is generally accepted as
 Lap dog: A lap dog is a person who is eager to correct.
please another at the expense of his or her own  Lay down the law: If someone lays down the
needs in order to maintain a position of law, they tell people what to do and are
privilege or favor. authoritarian.
 Lap of the gods: If something is in the lap of the  Lead someone up the garden path: If someone
gods, it is beyond our control and fate will leads you up the garden path, they deceive you,
decide the outcome. or give you false information that causes you to
 Larger than life: If something is excessive or waste your time. 'Lead someone down the
exaggerated, it is larger than life. garden path' is also used.
 Last hurrah: If an elderly person does  Lead with the chin: If someone leads with their
something special before they die, it is a last chin, they speak or behave without fear of the
hurrah. consequences.
 Last laugh: The person who has the last laugh  Learn the ropes: If you are learning the ropes,
ends up with the advantage in a situation after you are learning how to do something.
some setbacks.  Leave no stone unturned: If you look
 Last straw: The last straw is the final problem everywhere to find something, or try everything
that makes someone loses their temper or the to achieve something, you leave no stone
problem that finally brought about the collapse unturned.
of something. It comes from an Arabic story,  Leave well alone: If you leave something well
where a camel was loaded with straw until a alone, you keep a safe distance from it, either
single straw placed on the rest of the load physically or metaphorically.
broke its back.  Left hand doesn't know what the right hand is
doing: If the left hand doesn't know what the

228
right hand is doing, then communication within  Let the best be the enemy of the good: If the
a company, organization, group, etc, is so bad desire for an unattainable perfection stops
that people don't know what the others are someone from choosing good possibilities,
doing. they let the best be the enemy of the good.
 Left in the dark: If you are left in the dark about  Let the cat out of the bag: If you accidentally
something, you aren't given the information reveal a secret, you let the cat out of the bag.
that you should have.  Let the chips fall where they may: This means
 Left to your own devices: If someone is left to that we shouldn't try to control events, because
their own devices, they are not controlled and destiny controls them.
can do what they want.  Let the devil take the hindmost: This idiom
 Left-handed compliment: A left-handed means that you should think of yourself and not
compliment is one that sounds like praise but be concerned about other people; look after
has an insulting meaning. ('Backhanded yourself and let the devil take the hindmost.
compliment' is an alternative form.)  Let the genie out of the bottle: If people let the
 Legend in your own lunchtime: Somebody who genie out of the bottle, they let something bad
becomes a legend in their own lifetime acquires happen that cannot be put right or controlled.
fame, but often only to a select or specialist  Let the grass grow round your feet: If you let
audience, while they are still alive. the grass grow round your feet, you delay doing
 Lend an ear: If you lend an ear, you listen to things instead of taking action.
what someone has to say. ('Lend your ear' is an  Let your hair down: If someone lets their hair
alternative form.) down, they relax and stop feeling inhibited or
 Leopard can't change its spots: This idiom shy.
means that people cannot change basic  Letter of the law: If people interpret laws and
aspects of their character, especially negative regulations strictly, ignoring the ideas behind
ones. ("A leopard doesn't change its spots" is them, they follow the letter of the law.
also used.)  Level playing field: If there's a level playing field
 Lesser of two evils: Something that is the lesser everybody is treated equally.
of two evils is an unpleasant option, but not as  Lie like a rug: If someone lies like a rug, they lie
bad as the other. to the point where it becomes obvious that
 Let alone: This is used to emphasize how they're lying.
extreme something could be: 'We hadn't got the  Lie low: If someone lies low, they try not to be
money to phone home, let alone stay in a hotel.' found or caught.
This emphasizes the utter impossibility of  Lie through your teeth: Someone who is always
staying in a hotel. lying, regardless of what people know, lies
 Let bygones be bygones: If people decide to let through their teeth.
bygones be bygones, they decide to forget old  Life and limb: When people risk life and limb,
problems or grievances they have with each they could be killed or suffer serious injuries.
other.  Life is just a bowl of cherries: This idiom means
 Let sleeping dogs lie: If someone is told to let that life is simple and pleasant.
sleeping dogs lie, it means that they shouldn't  Light at the end of the tunnel: If you can see
disturb a situation as it would result in trouble light at the end of the tunnel, then you can see
or complications.

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229
some signs of hope in the future, though things  Like a fish out of water: If someone feels like a
are difficult at the moment. fish out of water, they are very uncomfortable
 Light bulb moment: A light bulb moment is in the situation they are in.
when you have a sudden realization about  Like a hawk: If you watch something or
something, like the light bulbs used to indicate someone like a hawk, you observe very closely
an idea in cartoons. and carefully.
 Light on your feet: If someone is light on their  Like a headless chicken: If someone rushes
feet, they can move quickly and are agile. about like a headless chicken, they move very
 Light years ahead: If you are light years ahead fast all over the place, usually without thinking.
of others, you are a long way in front of them in  Like a kid in a candy store: If someone is like a
terms of development, success, etc. kid in a candy store, they are very excited about
 Lightning rod: Someone or something that something.
attracts a lot of negative comment, often  Like a moth to a flame: Something that is like a
diverting attention from other problems, is a moth to a flame is attracted to something that
lightning rod. is deadly or dangerous.
 Like a bat out of hell: This expression means  Like a rat deserting a sinking ship: If people
extremely quickly. leave a company because they know that it's
 Like a beached whale: Once a whale is on a about to have serious problems, or turn their
beach, it cannot get back into the easily, so if back on a person about to be in a similar
you are completely stuck somewhere and can't situation, they are said to be like rats deserting
get away, you are stranded like a beached a sinking ship.
whale.  Like Chinese arithmetic: If something is
 Like a bear with a sore head: (UK) If someone's complicated and hard to understand, it's like
like a bear with a sore head, they complain a lot Chinese arithmetic.
and are unhappy about something.  Like clockwork: If something happens like
 Like a bull at a gate: If you tackle a job very clockwork, it happens at very regular times or
quickly, without any real thought about what intervals.
you are doing, you are going at it like a bull at a  Like father, like son: This idiom is used when
gate. different generations of a family behave in the
 Like a cat on hot bricks: If someone is like a cat same way or have the same talents of defects.
on hot bricks, they are very nervous or excited.  Like giving a donkey strawberries: (UK) If
 Like a cat that got the cream: If someone looks something is like giving a donkey strawberries,
very pleased with themselves and happy, they people fail to appreciate its value.
look like a cat that got the cream.  Like lambs to the slaughter: If somebody does
 Like a duck to water: If someone has a natural something unpleasant without any resistance,
talent for something and enjoys it, they take to they go like lambs to the slaughter.
it like a duck to water.  Like no one's business: If I say my children are
 Like a fish needs a bicycle: If someone needs growing like no one's business, it means they're
something like a Fish Needs a Bicycle, they do growing very quickly. See also 'Like the
not need it at all, originally a feminist slogan: A clappers' and 'Like there's no tomorrow'.
woman needs a man like a fish needs a bicycle.  Like peas in a pod: If people or things are like
peas in a pod, they look identical.

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 Like pulling teeth: If something if like pulling  Little pitchers have big ears: (USA) This means
teeth, it is very difficult, especially if trying to that children hear more and understand the
extract information or to get a straight answer world around them better than many adults
from someone. realize.
 Like taking candy from a baby: (USA) If  Little strokes fell great oaks: Meaning: even
something is like taking candy from a baby, it is though something may seem impossible, if you
very easy to do. break it up into small parts and take one step at
 Like the back of your hand: If you know a time, you will succeed.
something like the back of your hand, you know  Live high off the hog: If you are living high off
it very well indeed. the hog, you are living lavishly.
 Like the clappers: If something is going like the  Live wire: A person who is very active, both
clappers, it is going very fast. mentally and physically, is a live wire.
 Like there's no tomorrow: If someone does  Lo and behold: This phrase is used to express
something like there's no tomorrow, they do it surprise.
to an extreme level.  Loan shark: A loan shark lends money at very
 Like there's no tomorrow: If you do something high rates of interest.
like there's no tomorrow, you do it fast or  Lock horns: When people lock horns, they
energetically. argue or fight about something.
 Like two peas in a pod: Things that are like two  Lock the stable door after the horse has bolted:
peas in a pod are very similar or identical, If someone takes action too late, they do this;
 Like white on rice: (USA) If you do something there is no reason to lock an empty stable.
like white on rice, you do it very closely: When  Lock, stock and barrel: This is an expression
Bob found out I had front row tickets for the that means 'everything'; if someone buys a
concert, he stuck to me like white on rice. company lock, stock and barrel, they buy
 Like wildfire: If something happens or spreads absolutely everything to do with the company.
like wildfire, it happens very quickly and  Long face: Someone with a long face is sad or
intensely. depressed about something.
 Lily-livered: Someone who is lily-livered is a  Long in the tooth: If someone is long in the
coward. tooth, they are a bit too old to do something.
 Lines of communication: Lines of  Long shot: If something is a long shot, there is
communication are the routes used to only a very small chance of success.
communicate by people or groups who are in  Long time no hear: The speaker could say this
conflict; a government might open lines of when they have not heard from a person, either
communication with terrorists if it wished to through phone calls or emails for a long time.
negotiate with them.  Long time no see: 'Long time no see' means
 Lion's share: The lion's share of something is that the speaker has not seen that person for a
the biggest or best part. long time.
 Lip service: When people pay lip service to  Look after number 1: You are number one, so
something, they express their respect, but they this idiom means that you should think about
don't act on their words, so the respect is yourself first, rather than worrying about other
hollow and empty. people.

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 Look after the pennies and the pounds will look mean any excessive talk might sabotage a
after themselves: (UK) If you look after the project.
pennies, the pounds will look after themselves,  Lord love a duck: An exclamation used when
meaning that if someone takes care not to nothing else will fit. Often fitting when one is
waste small amounts of money, they will stunned or dismayed.
accumulate capital. ('Look after the pence and  Lose the plot: If someone loses the plot, they
the pounds will look after themselves' is an have stopped being rational about something.
alternative form of this idiom.)  Lose your lunch: (UK) If you lose your lunch,
 Look before you leap: This idiom means that you vomit.
you should think carefully about the possible  Lose your marbles: If someone has lost their
results or consequences before doing marbles, they've gone mad.
something.  Lose your shirt: If someone loses their shirt,
 Look on the bright side: If you look on the they lose all their money through a bad
bright side, you try to see things in an investment, gambling, etc.
optimistic way, especially when something has  Love is blind: If you love someone, it doesn't
gone wrong. matter what they look like. You will also
 Look out for number one: If you look out for overlook faults.
number one, you take care of yourself and your  Lower than a snake's belly in a wagon rut:
interests, rather than those of other people. (USA) If someone or something is lower than a
 Look what the cat dragged in: This idiom is snake's belly in a wagon rut, they are of low
used when someone arrives somewhere moral standing because a snake's belly is low
looking a mess or flustered and bothered. and if the snake is in a wagon rut, it is really
 Loose cannon: A person who is very difficult to low.
control and unpredictable is a loose cannon.  Lower than a snake's belly: Someone or
 Loose lips sink ships: To have loose lips means something that is lower than a snake's belly is
to have a big mouth, susceptible to talking of a very low moral standing.
about everything and everyone. Sinking ships  Lower the bar: If people change the standards
refers to anything from small acquaintances to required to make things easier, they lower the
long and hearty relationships (with friends or a bar.
significant other). So when one says loose lips  Lower your sights: If you lower your sights, you
sink ships, one is basically saying if you can't accept something that is less than you were
shut up you are going to end hurting people, hoping for.
usually psychologically or emotionally. Loose  Low-hanging fruit: Low-hanging fruit are things
lips sink ships comes from World War I and/or that are easily achieved.
WWII, when sailors on leave from their ships  Luck of the draw: To have the 'Luck of the draw'
might talk about what ship they sailed on or is to win something in a competition where the
where it had come from, or where it was going. winner is chosen purely by chance.
If they talked too much (had 'loose lips') they  Mad as a badger: If someone is as mad as a
might accidentally provide the enemy with badger, they are crazy.
anecdotal information that might later cause  Mad as a bag of hammers: Someone who is as
their ship to be tracked, and bombed and sunk, mad as a bag of hammers is crazy or stupid.
hence 'Loose lips sink ships.' Later, it came to ('Daft as a bag of hammers' is also used.)

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 Mad as a cut snake: (USA) One who is mad as a  Make a pitch: If you make a pitch for
cut snake has lost all sense of reason, is crazy, something, you make a bid, offer or other
out of control. attempt to get it.
 Mad as a hornet: (USA) If someone is as mad  Make a request: If you request something, or
as a hornet, they are very angry indeed. make a request, you are asking for something
 Mad as a March hare: Someone who is you want or need.
excitable and unpredictable is as mad as a  Make a song and dance: (UK) If someone
March hare. makes a song and dance, they make a
 Made in the shade: One has an easy time in life unnecessary fuss about something
or in a given situation. Finding things working unimportant.
to one's benefit.  Make an enquiry: If you make an enquiry, you
 Made of money: If you are made of money, you ask for general information about something.
have a lot of money.  Make bets in a burning house: (USA) If people
 Mailed fist: Someone who rules or controls are making bets in a burning house, they are
something with a mailed fist is in absolute engaged in futile activity while serious
control and tolerates no dissent. A mailed fist problems around them are getting worse.
in a velvet glove is used to describe someone  Make ends meet: If somebody finds it hard to
who appears soft on the outside, but make ends meet, they have problems living on
underneath is very hard. 'Iron fist' is an the money they earn.
alternative form.  Make hay: If you make hay, or may hay while
 Major league: Something major league is very the sun shines, you take advantage of an
important. opportunity as soon as it arises and do not
 Make a better fist: If someone makes a better waste time.
fist of doing something, they do a better job.  Make headway: If you make headway, you
 Make a clean breast: If someone makes a clean make progress.
breast, they confess in full to something they  Make money hand over fist: If you make money
have done. hand over fist, you make a lot of money without
 Make a killing: If you make a killing, you do any difficulty.
something that makes you a lot of money.  Make my day: If something makes your day, it
 Make a meal: If someone makes a meal of satisfies you or makes you happy.
something, they spend too long doing it or  Make no bones about it: If somebody make no
make it look more difficult than it really is. bones about a scandal in their past, they are
 Make a mint: If someone is making a mint, they open and honest about it and show no shame
are making a lot of money. or embarrassment.
 Make a monkey of someone: If you make a  Make out like a bandit: (USA) If someone is
monkey of someone, you make them look extremely successful in a venture, they make
foolish. out like a bandit.
 Make a mountain out of a molehill: If somebody  Make waves: If someone makes waves, they
makes a mountain out of a molehill, they cause a lot of trouble.
exaggerate the importance or seriousness of a  Make your blood boil: If something makes your
problem. blood boil, it makes you very angry.

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 Make your flesh crawl: If something makes  Man's man: A man's man is a man who does
your flesh crawl, it really scares or revolts you. things enjoyed by men and is respected by
('Make Your flesh creep' is an alternative. 'Make other men.
your skin crawl' is also used.)  Many a slip twixt cup and lip: There's many a
 Make your hair stand on end: If something slip twixt cup and lip means that many things
makes your hair stand on end, it terrifies you. can go wrong before something is achieved.
 Make yourself scarce: If someone makes  Many hands make light work: This idiom means
themselves scarce, they go away from a place, that when everyone gets involved in something,
especially to avoid trouble or so that they can't the work gets done quickly.
be found.  Many happy returns: This expression is used to
 Man Friday: From 'Robinson Crusoe', a 'Man wish someone a happy birthday.
Friday' refers to an assistant or companion,  Many moons ago: A very long time ago
usually a capable one. The common feminine  March to the beat of your own drum: If people
equivalent is 'Girl Friday'. (Also, 'right-hand march to the beat of their own drum, they do
man'. ) things the way they want without taking other
 Man in the street: The man in the street is an people into consideration.
idiom to describe ordinary people, especially  Mark my words: Mark my words is an
when talking about their opinions and ideas. expression used to lend an air of seriousness to
 Man of his word: A man of his word is a person what the speaker is about to say when talking
who does what he says and keeps his about the future. You often hear drunks say it
promises. before they deliver some particularly spurious
 Man of letters: A man of letters is someone who nonsense.
is an expert in the arts and literature, and often  Mark someone's card: If you mark someone's
a writer too. card, you correct them in a forceful and prompt
 Man of means: A man, or woman, of means is manner when they say something wrong.
wealthy.  Marked man: A marked man is a person who is
 Man of parts: A man of parts is a person who is being targeted by people who want to do them
talented in a number of different areas or ways. harm or cause them trouble.
 Man of straw: A weak person that can easily be  Matter of life and death: If something is a
beaten of changed is a man of straw. matter of life and death, it is extremely
 Man of the cloth: A man of the cloth is a priest. important.
 Man on the Clapham omnibus: (UK) The man  Mealy-mouthed: A mealy-mouthed person
on the Clapham omnibus is the ordinary person doesn't say what they mean clearly.
in the street.  Meat and drink : If something is meat and drink
 Man proposes, God disposes: Your fate lies in to you, you enjoy it and are naturally good at it,
the hands of God. though many find it difficult.
 Man upstairs: When people refer to the man  Meat and potatoes: The meat and potatoes are
upstairs, they are referring to God. the most important part of something. A meat
 Man's best friend: This is an idiomatic term for and potatoes person is someone who prefers
dogs. plain things to fancy ones.

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 Meet someone halfway: If you meet someone  Mexican standoff: When there is a deadlock in
halfway, you accept some of their ideas and strategy and neither side can do anything that
make concessions. will ensure victory, it's a Mexican standoff.
 Meet your expectations: If something doesn't  Mickey Mouse: If something is Mickey Mouse, it
meet your expectations, it means that it wasn't is intellectually trivial or not of a very high
as good as you had thought it was going to be; standard.
a disappointment.  Midas touch: If someone has the Midas touch,
 Meet your Maker: If someone has gone to meet they make a lot of money out of any scheme
their Maker, they have died. they try.
 Meet your match: If you meet your match, you  Middle of nowhere: If someone says that
meet a person who is at least as good if not he/she is in the middle of nowhere, he/she
better than you are at something. means that he/she is not sure where he/she is.
 Megaphone diplomacy: If negotiations between  Might and main: This means with all your effort
countries or parties are held through press and strength. As he failed in the previous exam,
releases and announcements, this is the student tried might and main to pass the
megaphone diplomacy, aiming to force the next one.
other party into adopting a desired position.  Mighty oaks from little acorns grow: Big or
 Melt your heart: If something melts your heart, great things start very small.
it affects you emotionally and you cannot  Millstone round your neck: A millstone around
control the feeling. your neck is a problem that prevents you from
 Melting pot: A melting pot is a place where doing what you want to do.
people from many ethnicities and nationalities  Mince words: If people mince words, or mince
live together. their words, they don't say what they really
 Memory like a sieve: If somebody can't retain mean clearly.
things for long in his or her memory and quickly  Mind over matter: This idiom is used when
forgets, he or she has a memory like a sieve. A someone uses their willpower to rise above
sieve has lots of tiny holes in it to let liquids out adversity.
while keeping the solids inside.  Mind the gap: Mind the gap is an instruction
 Memory like an elephant: 'An elephant never used on the Underground in the UK to warn
forgets' is a saying, so if a person has a passengers to be careful when leaving the tube
memory like an elephant, he or she has a very or train as there is quite a distance between the
good memory indeed. train and the platform.
 Mend fences: When people mend fences, they  Mind your own beeswax: (USA) This idiom
try to improve or restore relations that have means that people should mind their own
been damaged by disputes or arguments. business and not interfere in other people's
 Mess with a bull, you get the horns: If you do affairs.
something stupid or dangerous, you can get  Mind Your P's and Q's: If you are careful about
hurt. the way you behave and are polite, you mind
 Method in his madness: If there's method in Your P's and Q's.
someone's madness, they do things in a  Mind your P's and Q's: This is used as a way of
strange and unorthodox way, but manage to telling someone to be polite and behave well.
get results.

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235
 Mint condition: If something is in mint  Monkey see, monkey do: This idiom means that
condition, it is in perfect condition. children will learn their behavior by copying
 Misery guts: A misery guts is a person who's what they see happening around them.
always unhappy and tries to make others feel  Moot point: If something's a moot point, there's
negative. some disagreement about it: a debatable point.
 Miss is as good as a mile: A miss is as good as In the U.S., this expression usually means that
a mile means that if you fail, even by the there is no point in debating something,
smallest margin, it is still a failure. because it just doesn't matter. An example: If
 Miss the boat: If you miss the boat, you are too you are arguing over whether to go the beach or
late to take advantage of an opportunity. to the park, but you find out the car won't start
 Mom and pop: (USA) a mom and pop business and you can't go anywhere, then the
is a small business, especially if it is run by destination is said to be a moot point.
members of a family. It can be used in a wider  Moral fibre: Moral fibre is the inner strength to
sense to mean that something is small scale. do what you believe to be right in difficult
 Monday morning quarterback: (USA) A Monday situations Example: He lacked the moral fibre
morning quarterback is someone who, with the to be leader (In American English the correct
benefit of hindsight, knows what should have spelling is 'fiber'.)
been done in a situation.  Moral high ground: If people
 Money doesn’t grow on trees: This means that have/take/claim/seize, etc, the moral high
you have to work to earn money; it doesn't ground, they claim that their arguments,
come easily or without effort. beliefs, etc, are morally superior to those being
 Money for jam: If something's money for jam, put forward by other people.
it's a very easy way of making money  More front than Brighton: (UK) If you have more
 Money for old rope: (UK) If something's money front than Brighton, you are very self-confident,
for old rope, it's a very easy way of making possibly excessively so.
money  More haste, less speed: The faster you try to do
 Money laundering: If people launder money, something, the more likely you are to make
they get money made illegally into the mistakes that make you take longer than it
mainstream so that it is believed to be would have you planned it.
legitimate and clean.  More heat than light: If a discussion generates
 Money makes many things: This means that more heat than light, it doesn't provide
money is important. answers, but does make people angry.
 Money talks: This means that people can  More holes than Swiss cheese: If something
convey many messages with money, and many has more holes than a Swiss cheese, it is
things can be discovered about people by incomplete, and lacks many parts.
observing the way they use their money.  More than meets the eye: If there is more than
 Money to burn: If someone is very rich, they meets the eye to something, it is more complex
have money to burn. or difficult than it appears.
 Monkey business: If children get up to monkey  More than one string to their bow: A person
business, they are behaving naughtily or who has more than one string to their bow has
mischievously. This is the same as monkeying different talents or skills to fall back on.
around.

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 More than one way to skin a cat: When people  Mud-slinging: If someone is mud-slinging, they
say that there is more than one way to skin a are insulting someone and trying to damage
cat, they mean that there are different ways of that person's reputation.
achieving the same thing.  Mum's the word: When people use this idiom,
 Mountain to climb: If you have a mountain to they mean that you should keep quiet about
climb, you have to work hard or make a lot of something and not tell other people.
progress to achieve something.  Murder will out: This idiom means that bad
 Move heaven and earth: This expression deeds can't be kept secret forever.
indicates a person's determined intention of  Murky waters: Where people are behaving in
getting a work done in spite of all odds he may morally and ethically questionable ways, they
face. He will use all and every means to are in murky waters.
accomplish the target. Example: He moved  Music to my ears: If something someone says
heaven and earth to get his literary work is music to your ears, it is exactly what you had
recognized by the committee of experts. wanted to hear.
 Move mountains: If you would move mountains  Mutton dressed as lamb: Mutton dressed as
to do something, you would make any effort to lamb is term for middle-aged or elderly people
achieve your aim. When people say that faith trying to look younger.
can move mountains, they mean that it can  My dogs are barking: (USA) When someone
achieve a lot. says this, they mean that their feet are hurting.
 Move the goalposts: When people move the  My eye: This idiom is added to an adjective to
goalposts, they change the standards required show that you disagree with it: 'He's shy.' 'Shy
for something to their advantage. my eye- he's just planning something secret.'
 Mover and shaker: A person who is a mover and  My foot! : This idiom is used to show that you
shaker is a highly respected, key figure in their do not believe what someone has just said.
particular area with a lot of influence and  My hands are full: If your hands are full, you
importance. have so much to do that you cannot take on
 Much ado about nothing: If there's a lot of fuss any more work, responsibilities and so on.
about something trivial, there's much ado  My hands are tied: If your hands are tied, you
about nothing. are unable to act for some reason.
 Muck or nettles: 'Muck or nettles' means 'all or  My heart bleeds: If your heart bleeds for
nothing'. someone, you feel genuine sympathy and
 Mud in the fire: The things that cannot be sadness for them.
changed in the past that we usually forget  My heart goes out to someone: If your heart
about are mud in the fire. goes out to someone, you feel genuine
 Mud in your eye: This is a way of saying sympathy for them.
'cheers' when you are about to drink something,  My way or the highway: This idiom is used to
normally alcohol. say that if people don't do what you say, they
 Muddy the waters: If somebody muddies the will have to leave or quit the project, etc.
waters, he or she makes the situation more  Nail in the coffin: A nail in someone or
complex or less clear. something's coffin is a problem or event that is
a clear step towards an inevitable failure.

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237
 Nail-biter: If a game, election, contest, etc, is a  New brush sweeps clean: 'A new brush sweeps
nail-biter, it is exciting because the competitors clean' means that someone with a new
are so close that it is impossible to predict the perspective can make great changes. However,
result. the full version is 'a new brush sweeps clean,
 Nature abhors a vacuum: This idiom is used to but an old brush knows the corners', which
express the idea that empty or unfilled spaces warns that experience is also a valuable thing.
are unnatural as they go against the laws of Sometimes 'broom' is used instead of 'brush'.
nature and physics.  New kid on the block: A new kid on the block is
 Neck and neck: If two competitors or a person who has recently joined a company,
candidates, etc, are neck and neck, then they organization, team, etc, and does not know how
are very close and neither is clearly winning. things work yet.
 Neck of the woods: If someone talks about their  New lease of life: If someone finds new
neck of the woods, they mean the area where enthusiasm and energy for something, they
they live. have a new lease of life.
 Need no introduction: Someone who is very  New man: (UK) A New man is a man who
famous and known to everyone needs no believes in complete equality of the sexes and
introduction. shares domestic work equally.
 Needle in a haystack: If trying to find  New sheriff in town: This is used when a new
something is like looking for a needle in a authority figure takes charge.
haystack, it means that it is very difficult, if not  New York minute: (USA) If something happens
impossible to find among everything around it. in a New York minute, it happens very fast.
 Neither fish nor fowl: Something or someone  Newfangled: People who don't like new
that is neither fish nor fowl doesn't really fit methods, technologies, etc, describe them as
into any one group. newfangled, which means new but not as good
 Neither here nor there: If something is neither or nice as the old ones.
here nor there, it is of very little importance.  Nick of time: If you do something in the nick of
 Neither use nor ornament: Something that time, you do it at the very last minute or
serves no purpose and is not aesthetically second.
pleasing is neither use nor ornament.  Nickel tour: (USA) If someone gives you a
 Nerves of steel: If someone has nerves of steel, nickel tour, they show you around a place.
they don't get frightened when other people do. ('Fifty-cent tour' is also used.)
 Nest egg: If you have some money saved for  Night owl: A night owl is someone who goes to
the future, it is a nest egg. bed very late.
 Never a rose without the prick: This means that  Ninth circle of hell: In Dante's Inferno, the ninth
good things always have something bad as circle of hell is the centre where the worst
well; like the thorns on the stem of a rose. punishments are found, so it is used
 Never darken my door again: This is a way of idiomatically for something that couldn't get
telling someone never to visit you again. worse.
 New blood: If something needs new blood, it  Nip and tuck: A close contest where neither
has become stale and needs new ideas or opponent seems to be gaining the advantage
people to invigorate it.

238
 Nip at the bit: If someone is nipping at the bit,  No quarter: This means without mercy. We can
they are anxious to get something done and say no quarter given or asked.
don't want to wait.  No question: This idiom means that something
 Nip it in the bud: If you nip something in the is certain or definite.
bud, you deal with a problem when it is still  No questions asked: If something is to be done
small, before it can grow into something and no questions asked, then it doesn't matter
serious. what methods are used or what rules are
 Nitty gritty: If people get down to the nitty broken to ensure that it gets done.
gritty, they concentrate on the most important  No skin off my nose: If something's no skin off
and serious issues. your nose, it doesn't affect or bother you at all.
 No bed of roses: If something isn't a bed of  No smoke without fire: This idiom means that
roses, it is difficult. when people suspect something, there is
 No can do: No can do means that the speaker normally a good reason for the suspicion, even
can't do whatever it is that has been asked of if there is no concrete evidence. ('Where's
him or her. there's smoke, there's fire' is also used.)
 No go: Something that will not work. 'A square  No spine: If someone has no spine, they lack
peg in a round hole is a no go.' courage or are cowardly.
 No good deed goes unpunished: This means  No spring chicken: If someone is no spring
that life is unfair and people can do or try to do chicken, they are not young.
good things and still end up in a lot of trouble.  No strings attached: If something has no
 No great shakes: If someone is no great shakes strings attached, there are no obligations or
at something, they are not very good at it. requirements involved.
 No harm, no foul: There's no problem when no  No time for: If you have no time for an activity,
harm or damage is done, such as the time my you have absolutely no desire to spend or
sister-in-law stole the name we'd chosen for a waste any time doing it. You can have no time
boy and we both ended up having girls. for people, too.
 No holds barred: If there are no holds barred,  No time like the present: If people say that
there are no rules of conduct; you can do there's no time like the present, they believe
anything. that it is far better to do something now than to
 No ifs or buts: Ifs and Buts is a term used to leave it for later, in which case it might never
describe the reasons people give for not get done.
wanting to do something. To show that you  No time to lose: If there's no time to lose, then
don't wish to accept any excuses, you can tell it's time to get started otherwise it won't be
somebody that you wish to hear no ifs or buts finished on time.
Here IF & BUT have become nouns  No use to man or beast: If something or
 No laughing matter: Something that is no someone is no use to man or beast, they it or
laughing matter is very serious. they are utterly useless.
 No love lost: If there is no love lost between two  Nod's as good as a wink: (UK) 'A nod's as good
people they have a strong enmity towards or as a wink' is a way of saying you have
hate for the other and make no effort to understood something that someone has said,
conceal it. even though it was not said directly. The full

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239
phrase (sometimes used in the UK ) is 'a nod's  Not have two pennies to rub together: If
as good as a wink to a blind horse'. someone hasn't got two pennies to rub
 None so blind as those who will not see: This together, they are very poor indeed.
idiom is used when people refuse to accept  Not know beans about: (USA) If someone
facts presented to them. ('None so deaf as doesn't know beans about something, they
those who will not hear' is an alternative.) know nothing about it.
 None so blind as those who will not see: This  Not know you are born: This indicates that the
idiom is used when people refuse to accept the person described is unaware of his or her good
truth.('None so blind as those who will not see' fortune or is unaware of how difficult day to
is also used if they refuse to listen to the truth.) day life was before he/she was born. Typical
 Nose in the air: If someone has their nose in the usage: 'Kids today don't know they are born'.
air, they behave in a way that is meant to show  Not much cop: Describing a film or something
that they are superior to others. as not much cop is a way of saying that you
 Nosy parker: (UK) A nosy parker is someone didn't think much of it.
who is excessively interested in other people's  Not my cup of tea: If something is not your cup
lives. ('Nosey parker' is an alternative spelling.) of tea, you don't like it very much.
 Not a snowball's chance in hell: There is  Not on my watch: Someone distancing
absolutely no possibility of something themselves from a situation could say that it is
happening if there's not a snowball's chance in not on their watch.
hell.  Not our bag: If something is not your bag, it is
 Not all there: If someone isn't all there, they are not really suitable for your needs or you don't
a little bit stupid or crazy. like it much.
 Not bat an eye: If someone doesn't bat an eye,  Not the only pebble on the beach: If something
they do not react when other people normally is not the only pebble on the beach, there are
would. other possibilities or alternatives.
 Not born yesterday: When someone says that  Not to be sneezed at: If something is not to be
they weren't born yesterday, they mean that sneezed at, it should be taken seriously.
they are not naive or easily fooled.  Not wash: If a story or explanation will not
 Not cricket: (UK) If something is not cricket, it wash, it is not credible.
is unfair.  Not worth a red cent: (USA) If something is not
 Not enough room to swing a cat: If a room is worth a red cent, it has no value.
very small, you can say that there isn't enough  Not worth a tinker's dam: This means that
room to swing a cat in it. something is worthless and dates back to when
 Not give a monkey's: (UK) If you couldn't give a someone would travel around the countryside
monkey's about something, you don't care at all repairing things such as a kitchen pot with a
about it. hole in it. He was called a 'tinker'. His dam was
 Not have the heart: If you don't have the heart used to stop the flow of soldering material
to do something, you don't have the strength or being used to close the hole. Of course his
courage to do something. (Usually used in the 'trade' is passé, thus his dam is worth nothing.
negative)  Notch on your belt: A success or achievement
that might help you in the future is a notch on
your belt.

240
 Nothing to crow about: If something's nothing  Off the mark: If something is off the mark, it is
to crow about, it's not particularly good or inaccurate or incorrect.
special.  Off the rails: If someone has gone off the rails,
 Nothing to write home about: Something that is they have lost track of reality.
not special or good is nothing to write home  Off the scale: If something goes off the scale, it
about. far exceeds the normal standards, good or bad,
 Nothing ventured, nothing gained: You can't for something.
win if you don't join in the game; if you don't  Off the shelf: If a product is off the shelf, it can
participate in something, you will not achieve be used straightaway without any setting-up.
anything.  Off the top of your head: If you say something
 Now and then: This idiom means occasionally. off the top of your head, you don't think about it
 Null and void: If something's null and void, it is beforehand.
invalid or is no longer applicable.  Off the track: If something puts or throws you
 Number cruncher: A number cruncher is an off your track, it distracts you or keeps you
accountant or someone who is very good at from achieving what you want.
dealing with numbers and calculations.  Off the wall: Something that is off the wall is
 Nuts and bolts: The nuts and bolts are the most unconventional.
essential components of something.  Off your chump: (UK) If someone is off their
 Nutty as a fruitcake: Someone who's nutty as a chump, they are crazy or irrational.
fruitcake is irrational or crazy. (This can be  Off your rocker: (UK) Someone who is off their
shortened to 'a fruitcake'.) rocker is crazy.
 Object lesson: An object lesson serves as a  Off-hand: Off-hand means without preparation.
warning to others. (In some varieties of English People say that they don't know the answer off-
'abject lesson' is used.) hand, meaning that they don't know it at that
 Odds and ends: Odds and ends are small, time.
remnant articles and things- the same as bits  Oh, my goodness! : An expression of surprise
and bobs.  Old chestnut: An old chestnut is something that
 Off colour: If someone looks off colour/color, has been repeated so many times that it has
they look ill. lost its impact.
 Off the beaten track: Somewhere that's off the  Old flames die hard: It's very difficult to forget
beaten track is in a remote location. old things, especially the first love.
 Off the chart: If something goes off the chart, it  Old friends and old wine are best: This idiom
far exceeds the normal standards, good or bad, means that the things and people that we know
for something. well are better than the unfamiliar.
 Off the cuff: If you do something off the cuff,  Old hat: If something's old hat, it seems rather
you do it without any preparation. old fashioned and dated.
 Off the grid: Someone who is off the grid lives  Old wive's tale: A proverb or piece of advice
outside society and chooses not to follow its that is commonly accepted as truth and is
rules and conventions. handed down the generations, but is normally
 Off the hook: If someone is off the hook, they false
have avoided punishment or criticism for
something they have done.

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 Oldest trick in the book: The oldest trick in the  On the dot: If someone says that they're leaving
book is a well-known way of deceiving at seven on the dot, don't be late; they mean at
someone, though still effective. exactly seven o'clock.
 Olive branch: If you hold out or offer an olive  On the factory floor: On the factory floor means
branch, you make a gesture to indicate that you the place where things are actually produced.
want peace.  On the fiddle: (UK) Someone who is stealing
 On a fishing expedition: If someone is on a money from work is on the fiddle, especially if
fishing expedition, they are trying to get they are doing it by fraud.
information, often using incorrect or improper  On the flip side: On the reverse or the other side
ways to find things out.  On the fly: If you do things on the fly, you do
 On a roll: If you're on a roll, you're moving from things without preparation, responding to
success to success. events as they happen.
 On a silver platter: If you hand or give  On the game: (UK) A person who is on the game
something on a silver platter to someone, you works as a prostitute.
let them have it too easily.  On the ground: Events on the ground are where
 On all fours: If someone is on all fours, they things are actually happening, not at a
crawl. distance.
 On Carey Street: (UK) If someone is on Carey  On the hoof: If you decide something on the
Street, they are heavily in debt or have gone hoof, you do it without planning, responding to
bankrupt. events as they happen.
 On good terms: If people are on good terms,  On the house: If you get something for free that
they have a good relationship. would normally have to be bought, especially in
 On hold: If something is on hold, no action is a bar or restaurant, it is on the house.
being taken.  On the lam: If someone is on the lam, they are
 On ice: If plans are put on ice, they are delayed hiding from the police or authorities, especially
and no action will be taken for the foreseeable to avoid arrest or prison.
future.  On the level: If someone is honest and
 On pins and needles: If you are on pins and trustworthy, they are on the level.
needles, you are very worried about something.  On the line: If somebody's job is on the line,
 On tenterhooks: This means that she is waiting they stand a very good chance of losing it.
impatiently and excitedly for something.  On the make: If someone is on the make, they
 On the ball: If someone's on the ball, they are are trying to make a lot of money, usually
well-informed and know what's going on in illegally.
their area of responsibility or interest.  On the map: If a place becomes widely known,
 On the blink: (UK) Is a machine is on the blink; it is put on the map. A place that remains
it isn't working properly or is out of order. unknown is off the map.
 On the blower: (UK) If someone is on the  On the never-never: (UK) If you buy something
blower, they are on the phone. on the never-never, you buy it on long-term
 On the case: If someone is on the case, they are credit.
dealing with a problem.  On the nod: (UK) If something is accepted by
 On the cheap: If you do something on the parliament or a committee majority, it is on the
cheap, you spend as little as possible to do it. nod.

242
 On the nod: (UK) Someone who's on the nod is but you just can't quite remember it at the
either asleep or falling asleep, especially when moment.
the shouldn't or are are in a position unusual  On the trot: (UK) This idiom means
for sleep, like sitting or standing. 'consecutively'; I'd saw them three days on the
 On the nod: (UK) When a horse runs, its head trot, which means that I saw them on three
moves backwards and forwards alternately - in consecutive days.
horse racing, if 2 horses cross the line together  On the up and up: If you are on the up and up,
the one whose head happens to be going you are making very good progress in life and
forward often wins and is said to win 'on the doing well.
nod'.  On the up and up: When someone is on the up
 On the nose: This means right on time. and up, he or she is truthful, honest, and
 On the rebound: If someone is on the rebound, straightforward. It can also mean that they are
their relationship has recently ended and they very successful in life at the moment.
are emotionally unstable.  On the wagon: If someone is on the wagon,
 On the right foot: If you start something or set they have stopped drinking alcohol.
off on the right foot, you get off to a good start.  On the wallaby track: (AU) In Australian English,
 On the ropes: When something or someone is if you're on the wallaby track, you are
on the ropes, it or they are doing badly and unemployed.
likely to fail.  On top of the world: If you are on top of the
 On the run: If someone is on the run, they are world, everything is going well for you.
avoiding arrest and hiding from the police.  On your high horse: When someone is on their
 On the same page: If people are on the same high horse, they are being inflexible, arrogant
page, they have the same information and are and will not make any compromises.
thinking the same way.  On your last legs: If someone's on their last
 On the same wavelength: If people are on the legs, they're close to dying.
same wavelength, they have the same ideas  On your soapbox: If someone is up on their
and opinions about something. soapbox about something, they are very overtly
 On the shelf: If something like a project is on and verbally passionate about the topic.
the shelf, nothing is being done about it at the  On your tod: If you are on your tod, you are
moment. alone.
 On the skids: When things or people are on the  On your toes: Someone on his or her toes is
skids, they are in serious decline and trouble. alert and ready to go.
 On the sly: If someone does something on the  Once bitten, twice shy: If somebody is said to
sly, they do it furtively or secretly. be once bitten twice shy, it means that
 On the stump: When politicians are someone who has been hurt or who has had
campaigning for support and votes, they are on something go wrong will be far more careful the
the stump. next time.
 On the take: (UK) Someone who is stealing  Once in a blue moon: If something happens
from work is on the take. once in a blue moon, it happens very rarely
 On the tip of your tongue: If a word is on the tip indeed.
of your tongue, you know you know the word,  One bad apple: The full form of this proverb is
'one bad apple spoils the barrel', meaning that a

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
243
bad person, policy, etc, can ruin everything  Open old sores: When a sore is almost healed,
around it. and if a person rips or tears it open, it is way of
 One fell swoop: If something is done at one fell preventing the healing process and further
swoop, it is done in a single period of activity, aggravating the pain. This phrase,
usually swiftly and ruthlessly. metaphorically suggests, to revive or reopen a
 One for the road: A last drink before leaving a quarrel or enmity which was almost forgotten.
pub or bar is one for the road.  Open old wounds: If you open old wounds, you
 One good turn deserves another: This means revive a quarrel or problem that caused a lot of
that when people do something good, trouble in the past.
something good will happens to them.  Opening a can of worms: If you open a can of
 One hand washes the other: This idiom means worms, you do something that will cause a lot
that we need other people to get on as of problems and is, on balance, probably going
cooperation benefits us all. to cause more trouble than it's worth.
 One man's loss is another man's gain: This  Opportunity knocks but once: This idiom means
means that one person's setback benefits that you only get one chance to achieve what
someone else. you really want to do.
 One man's meat is another man's poison: This  Other side of the coin: The other side of the
idiom means that one person can like coin is a different, usually opposing, view of a
something very much, but another can hate it. situation. ('Flip side of the coin' is an
 One man's trash is another man's treasure: alternative.)
What is useless to one person might be  Out and about: If someone is out and about,
valuable to another. they have left their home and are getting things
 One over the eight: (UK) Someone who is one done that they need to do.
over the eight is drunk.  Out in the sticks: (UK) If someone lives out in
 One swallow does not make a summer: This the sticks, they live out in the country, a long
means that one good or positive event does not way from any metropolitan area.
mean that everything is all right.  Out like a light: If you are out like a light, you
 One-man band: If one person does all the work fall fast asleep.
or has all the responsibility somewhere, then  Out of hand: If something gets out of hand, it
they are a one-man band. gets out of control.
 One-off: A one-off event only happens once  Out of my league: If someone or something is
and will not be repeated. out of your league, you aren't good enough or
 One-trick pony: A one-trick pony is someone rich enough, etc, for it or them.
who does one thing well, but has limited skills  Out of pocket: If you are out of pocket on a
in other areas. deal, you have lost money.
 Oops a daisy: An expression used to indicate  Out of sight, out of mind: Out of sight, out of
surprise. mind is used to suggest that someone will not
 Open all hours: If a shop or suchlike is open all think or worry about something if it isn't
hours, it only closes, if at all, terribly late. directly visible or available to them.
 Open book: If a person is an open book, it is  Out of sorts: If you are feeling a bit upset and
easy to know what they think or how they feel depressed, you are out of sorts.
about things.

244
 Out of the blue: If something happens out of  Over the counter: Medicines and drugs that can
the blue, it happens suddenly and be sold without a doctor's prescription are sold
unexpectedly. over the counter.
 Out of the box: Thinking out of the box is  Over the hill: If someone is over the hill they
thinking in a creative way. However, it can also have reached an age at which they can longer
be used for a ready-made product that requires perform as well as they used to.
no specialist knowledge to set it up.  Over the moon: If you are over the moon about
 Out of the frying pan, into the fire: If you get out something, you are overjoyed.
of one problem, but find yourself in a worse  Over the top: If something is over the top, it is
situation, you are out of the frying pan, into the excessive or unnecessary. It refers to the
fire. moment a soldier leaves the trenches.
 Out of the woods: If you are out of the woods,  Over your head: If something is over your head,
you have emerged safely from a dangerous or goes over your head, it is too complex or
situation, though the idiom is often used in the difficult for you to understand.
negative.  Over-egg the pudding: (UK) If you over-egg the
 Out of this world: If something is out of this pudding, you spoil something by trying to
world, it is fantastic. improve it excessively. It is also used nowadays
 Out of your hair: If you get someone out of your with the meaning of making something look
hair, you get them to stop bothering or bigger or more important than it really is.
annoying you. ('Stay/keep/get out of my hair!' ('Over-egg' alone is often used in this sense.)
can be used as imperatives)  Packed like sardines: If a place is extremely
 Out of your mind: If someone is out of the mind, crowded, people are packed like sardines, or
they are so emotional about something that packed in like sardines.
they are no longer rational.  Paddle your own canoe: (USA) If you paddle
 Out of your own pocket: If someone does your own canoe, you do things for yourself
something out of their own pocket, they pay all without outside help.
the expenses involved.  Pain in the neck: If someone is very annoying
 Out on a limb: If somebody's out on a limb, they and always disturbing you, they are a pain in
are in a very exposed position and could get the neck. Pain in the butt, or pain in the ass
into difficulties. (USA), and Pain in the arse (UK) are less polite
 Out to lunch: If someone's out to lunch, they alternative forms.
are crazy or out of touch.  Paint the town red: If you go out for a night out
 Over a barrel: If someone has you over a barrel, with lots of fun and drinking, you paint the town
they have you in a position where you have no red.
choice but to accept what they want.  Paint yourself into a corner: (USA) If someone
 Over and over: If something happens over and paints themselves into a corner, they get
over, it happens repeatedly. themselves into a mess.
 Over my dead body: If you say that something  Painted Jezebel: A painted Jezebel is a
will happen over your dead body, you will not scheming woman.
let it happen.  Pandora's box: If you open a Pandora's box,
something you do causes all sorts of trouble
that you hadn't anticipated.

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245
 Paper over the cracks: If you paper over the  Pecking order: The pecking order is the order of
cracks, you try to make something look or work importance or rank.
better but only deal with superficial issues, not  Peeping Tom: A peeping Tom is someone who
the real underlying problems. tries to look through other people's windows
 Paper tiger: A paper tiger is a person, country, without being seen in order to spy on people in
institution, etc, that looks powerful, but is their homes.
actually weak.  Pen is mightier than the sword: The idiom 'the
 Par for the course: If something is par for the pen is mightier than the sword' means that
course, it is what you expected it would be. If it words and communication are more powerful
is above par, it is better, and if it is below par, it than wars and fighting.
is worse.  Penny ante: (USA) something that is very
 Parrot fashion: If you learn something parrot unimportant is penny ante.
fashion, you learn it word for word. A parrot is a  Penny pincher: A penny pincher is a mean
bird from South America that can talk. person or who is very frugal.
 Part and parcel: If something is part and parcel  Penny wise, pound foolish: Someone who is
of your job, say, it is an essential and penny wise, pound foolish can be very careful
unavoidable part that has to be accepted. or mean with small amounts of money, yet
 Pass muster: If something passes muster, it wasteful and extravagant with large sums.
meets the required standard.  People who live in glass houses should not
 Pass the buck: If you pass the buck, you avoid throw stones: People should not criticize other
taking responsibility by saying that someone people for faults that they have themselves.
else is responsible.  Pep talk: When someone gives you a pep talk it
 Pass the hat: If you pass the hat, you ask a is to build you up to help you accomplish
people in a group to give money. something. In sports a coach might give a
 Pass the time of day: If you pass the time of player a pep talk before the game to bolster his
day with somebody, you stop and say hello, confidence. At work the boss might give you a
enquire how they are and other such acts of pep talk to get you to do a better job.
social politeness.  Perfidious Albion: England is known to some as
 Patience of Job: If something requires the perfidious Albion, implying that it is not
patience of Job, it requires great patience. trustworthy in its dealings with foreigners.
 Pay on the nail: If you pay on the nail, you pay  Perish the thought: Perish the thought is an
promptly in cash. expression meaning that you really hope
 Pay the piper: When you pay the piper, you have something will not happen.
to accept the consequences of something that  Pet peeve: A pet peeve is something that
you have done wrong or badly. irritates an individual greatly.
 Pay through the nose: If you pay through the  Photo finish: A photo finish is when two
nose for something, you pay a very high price contestants (usually in a race) finish at almost
for it. exactly the same time, making it difficult to
 Pay your dues: If you have paid your dues, you determine the winner. (The saying stems from
have had your own struggles and earned your the practice of taking a photograph when the
place or position. winners cross the finish line to determine who
was ahead at the time.)

246
 Pick up the tab: A person who pays for  Plain as a pikestaff: (UK) If something is as
everyone picks up the tab. plain as a pikestaff, it is very clear.
 Pick-up game: (USA) A pick-up game is  Plain as the nose on your face: If something is
something unplanned where people respond to as plain as the nose on your face, it is very clear
events as they happen. and obvious.
 Pie in the sky: If an idea or scheme is pie in the  Plain Jane: A plain Jane is a woman who isn't
sky, it is utterly impractical. particularly attractive.
 Piece of cake: If something is a piece of cake, it  Plain sailing: If something is relatively easy and
is really easy. there are no problems doing it, it is plain
 Pieces of the same cake: Pieces of the same sailing.
cake are things that have the same  Plan B: Plan B is an alternate or fall-back
characteristics or qualities. position or method when the initial attempt or
 Pig in a poke: If someone buys a pig in a poke, plan goes wrong.
they buy something without checking the  Plastic smile: When someone is wearing a
condition it was in, usually finding out later that plastic smile, they are appearing to be happier
it was defective. with a situation or events than they actually
 Pigs might fly: If you think something will never are. This is actually a description of the forced
happen or succeed, you can say that 'pigs smile you might see in many photographs.
might fly' (or 'pigs can fly' and 'pigs will fly'- the  Play fast and loose: If people play fast and
idiom is used in many forms) loose, they behave in an irresponsible way and
 Pin money: (UK) If you work for pin money, you don't respect rules, etc.
work not because you need to but because it  Play for keeps: If you are playing for keeps, you
gives you money for extra little luxuries and take things very seriously and the outcome is
treats. very important to you; it is not a mere game.
 Pinch of salt: If what someone says should be  Play for time: If you play for time, you delay
taken with a pinch of salt, then they exaggerate something because you are not ready or need
and distort things, so what they say shouldn't more time to thing about it. Eg. I knew I had to
be believed unquestioningly. (‘With a grain of play for time until the police arrived.
salt' is an alternative.)  Play hardball: If someone plays hardball, they
 Pink pound: (UK) In the UK, the pink pound is are very aggressive in trying to achieve their
an idiom for the economic power of gay people. aim.
 Pink slip: If someone receives a pink slip, they  Play havoc: Playing havoc with something is
receive a letter telling them they have lost their creating disorder and confusion; computer
job. viruses can play havoc with your programs.
 Pipe dream: A pipe dream is an unrealistic,  Play hooky: If people play hooky, they don't
impractical idea or scheme. attend school when they should and don't have
 Piping hot: If food is piping hot, it is very hot a valid reason for their absence.
indeed.  Play into someone's hands: If you play into
 Place in the sun: If you have your place in the someone's hands, you do what they were
sun, you find wealth, happiness or whatever expecting you to do and take advantage of this.
you are looking for in life.

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 Play it by ear: If you play it by ear, you don't  Pop the question: When someone pops the
have a plan of action, but decide what to do as question, they ask someone to marry them.
events take shape.  Pop your clogs: When someone pops their
 Play out of your skin: If someone plays out of clogs, they die.
their skin, they give an outstanding  Pork barrel: Pork barrel politics involves
performance. investing money in an area to get political
 Play second fiddle: If you play second fiddle, support rather than using the money for the
you take a subordinate role behind someone common good.
more important.  Pot calling the kettle black: If someone
 Play the field: Someone who plays the field has hypocritically criticises a person for something
sexual relationships with many people. that they themselves do, then it is a case of the
 Play the fool: If someone plays the fool, they pot calling the kettle black.
behave in a silly way to make people laugh.  Pot-luck: If you take pot-luck, you take
('Act the fool' is and alternative form.) whatever happens to be available at the time.
 Play with fire: If people take foolish risks, they  Pound of flesh: If someone wants their pound
are playing with fire. of flesh, the force someone to pay or give back
 Playing to the gallery: If someone plays to the something owed, even though they don't need
gallery, they say or do things that will make it and it will cause the other person a lot of
them popular, but which are not the right things difficulty.
to do.  Pour oil on troubled waters: If someone pours
 Pleased as punch: When someone is pleased as oil on troubled waters, they try to calm things
punch, they are very satisfied about something down.
 Poacher turned gamekeeper: Someone who  Powder your nose: If somebody goes to powder
gets a legitimate job which is the opposite of your nose, it is a euphemism for going to the
their previous one. E.G a computer hacker who lavatory (toilet).
then helps to catch other hackers or an ex-bank  Powers that be: The powers that be are the
robber who then advises banks on security people who are in charge of something.
 Poetry in motion: Something that is poetry in  Practise what you preach: If you practise what
motion is beautiful to watch. you preach, you do what you say other people
 Pointy-heads: Pointy-heads are supposed should do.(In American English, the verb is
intellectuals or experts, but who don't really 'practice')
know that much.  Preaching to the choir: If someone preaches to
 Poison pill: A poison pill is a strategy designed the choir, they talking about a subject or issue
to prevent a company from being take over. with which their audience already agrees.
 Polish the apples: (USA) someone who polishes ('Preaching to the converted' is an alternative
the apples with someone tries to get into that form.)
person's favor.  Presence of mind: If someone behaves calmly
 Polishing peanuts: To work very hard at and rationally in difficult circumstances, they
something for little or no return. In other words, show presence of mind.
wasting time on work which will not yield  Press the flesh: When people, especially
reasonable value politicians, press the flesh, they meet members

248
of the public and shake their hands, usually  Pull out all the stops: If you pull out all the
when trying to get support. stops, you do everything you possibly can to
 Pressed for time: If you are pressed for time, achieve the result you want.
you are in a hurry or working against a very  Pull out of the fire: (USA) If you pull something
tight schedule. out of the fire, you save or rescue it.
 Prim and proper: Someone who is prim and  Pull someone's leg: If you pull someone's leg,
proper always behaves in the correct way and you tease them, but not maliciously.
never breaks the rules of etiquette.  Pull strings: If you pull strings, you use
 Primrose path: The primrose path is an easy contacts you have got to help you get what you
and pleasurable lifestyle, but one that ends in want.
unpleasantness and problems.  Pull the fat from the fire: If you pull the fat from
 Prince charming: A prince charming is the the fire, you help someone in a difficult
perfect man in a woman's life. situation.
 Problem is thirty: If a problem is 30, the  Pull the other one, it's got brass bells on: This
problem is the person who sits 30 cm from the idiom is way of telling somebody that you don't
computer screen. It is used to describe people believe them. The word 'brass' is optional.
that lack technical knowledge and can be used  Pull the trigger: The person who pulls the
when you insult someone who's having trigger is the one who does the action that
computer problems. closes or finishes something.
 Proclaim it from the rooftops: If something is  Pull the wool over someone's eyes: If you pull
proclaimed from the rooftops, it is made as the wool over someone's eyes, you deceive or
widely known and as public as possible. cheat them.
 Prodigal son: A prodigal son is a young man  Pull up your socks: If you aren't satisfied with
who wastes a lot on money on a lavish lifestyle. someone and want them to do better, you can
If the prodigal son returns, they return to a tell them to pull up their socks.
better way of living.  Pull your chain: (USA) If someone pulls your
 Proof of the pudding is in the eating: This chain, they take advantage of you in an unfair
means that something can only be judged when way or do something to annoy you.
it is tested or by its results. (It is often  Pull your finger out! : (UK) If someone tells you
shortened to 'Proof of the pudding'.) to do this, they want you to hurry up. ('Get your
 Proud as a peacock: Someone who is as proud finger out' is also used.)
as a peacock is excessively proud.  Pull your punches: If you pull your punches, you
 Pull a rabbit out of your hat: If you pull a rabbit do not use all the power or authority at your
out of a hat, you do something that no one was disposal.
expecting.  Pull your weight: If someone is not pulling their
 Pull in the reins: When you pull in the reins, you weight, they aren't making enough effort,
slow down or stop something that has been a especially in group work.
bit out of control.  Pull yourself up by your bootstraps: If you pull
 Pull no punches: If you pull no punches, you yourself up by your bootstraps, you make the
hold nothing back. effort to improve things for yourself.
 Punching bag: A punching bag (or punch bag)
is a person who gets a lot of unfair criticism.

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 Puppy love: Puppy love is love between two  Put the carriage before the horse: If you put the
very young people. carriage before the horse, you try to do things
 Pup's chance: A pup's chance is no chance. in the wrong order.
 Push comes to shove: If or when push comes to  Put the kybosh on: To put an end to something
shove, the situation has become some bad that  Put the pedal to the metal: If you put the pedal
you are forced to do something: If push comes to the metal, you go faster.
to shove, we'll just have to use our savings.  Put to the sword: If someone is put to the
 Push the envelope: This means to go to the sword, he or she is killed or executed.
limits, to do something to the maximum  Put two and two together: If someone puts two
possible. and two together, they reach a correct
 Pushing up the daisies: If someone is said to be conclusion from the evidence.
pushing up the daisies, they are dead.  Put up or shut up: 'Put up or shut up' means
 Put a bug in your ear: If you put a bug in you do something you are talking about or not
someone's ear, you give him or her a reminder to talk about it any more.
or suggestion relating to a future event.  Put you in mind: If something suggests
 Put a cork in it! : This is a way of telling something to you, it puts you in mind of that
someone to be quiet. thing.
 Put all your eggs in one basket: If you put all  Put you in the picture: If you put someone in
your eggs in one basket, you risk everything on the picture, you tell them the information they
a single opportunity which, like eggs breaking, need to know about something.
could go wrong.  Put your best foot forward: If you put your best
 Put lipstick on a pig: If people put lipstick on a foot forward, you try your best to do something.
pig, they make superficial or cosmetic changes,  Put your cards on the table: If you put your
hoping that it will make the product more cards on the table, you make your thoughts or
attractive. ideas perfectly clear.
 Put or get someone's back up: If you put or get  Put your foot down: When someone puts their
someone's back up, you annoy them. foot down, they make a firm stand and
 Put some dirt on it: This means that when you establish their authority on an issue.
get hurt, you should rub it off or shake it off and  Put your foot in it: If you put your foot in it, you
you'll be ok. do or say something embarrassing and tactless
 Put some mustard on it! : (USA) I think it’s used or get yourself into trouble.
to encourage someone to throw a ball like a  Put your foot in your mouth: If you put your
baseball hard or fast. foot in your mouth, you say something stupid
 Put somebody's nose out of joint: If you put or embarrassing.
someone's nose out of joint, you irritate them  Put your hand on your heart: If you can out your
or make them angry with you. hand on your heart, then you can say
 Put someone on a pedestal: If you put someone something knowing it to be true.
on a pedestal, you admire them greatly, idolize  Put your heads together: If people put their
them. head together, they exchange ideas about
 Put someone out to pasture: If someone is put something.
out to pasture, they are forced to resign or give
up some responsibilities.

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 Put your money where your mouth is: If  Quick as a flash: If something happens quick as
someone puts their money where their mouth a flash, it happens very fast indeed.
is, they back up their words with action.  Quick buck: If you make some money easily,
 Put your thumb on the scales: If you put your you make a quick buck.
thumb on the scales, you try to influence the  Quick fix: A quick fix is an easy solution,
result of something in your favour. especially one that will not last.
 Putting the cart before the horse: When you put  Quick off the mark: If someone is quick off the
the cart before the horse, you are doing mark, they are very quick to use, start or do
something the wrong way round. something new.
 Pyrrhic victory: A Pyrrhic victory is one that  Quick on the trigger: Someone who is quick on
causes the victor to suffer so much to achieve the trigger acts or responds quickly.
it that it isn't worth winning.  Quids in: (UK) If somebody is quids in, they
 Quarrel with bread and butter: Bread and butter, stand to make a lot of money from something.
here, indicate the means of one’s living. (That is  Quiet as a cat: If somebody is as quiet as a cat
why we say ‘he is the bread winner of the they make as little noise as possible and try to
family’). If a sub-ordinate in an organization is be unnoticeable.
quarrelsome or if he is not patient enough to  Quiet as a mouse: If someone's as quiet as a
bear the reprimand he deserves, gets angry and mouse, they make absolutely no noise.
retorts or provokes the higher-up, the top man  Quiet before the Storm: When you know that
dismisses him from the job. So, he loses the job something is about to go horribly wrong, but
that gave him bread and butter. Hence we say, hasn't just yet, then you are in the quiet before
he quarreled with bread and butter (manager or the storm.
the top man) and lost his job.  Rack and ruin: If something or someone goes
 Quart into a pint pot: (UK) If you try to put or to rack and ruin, they are utterly destroyed or
get a quart into a pint pot, you try to put too wrecked.
much in a small space. (1 quart = 2 pints)  Rack your brain: If you rack your brain, you
 Queen Bee: The queen bee is a woman who think hard, especially when trying to remember
holds the most important position in a place. something or find a solution. ('Rack your
 Queen of Hearts: A woman who is pre-eminent brains' is also used.)
in her area is a Queen of Hearts.  Rack your brain: If you rack your brain, you
 Queer fish: (UK) A strange person is a queer think very hard when trying to remember
fish. something. ('Rack your brains' is an
 Queer Street: If someone is in a lot of trouble, alternative.)
especially financial, they are in Queer Street.  Ragged blue line: (USA) This term was used to
 Queer your pitch: If someone queers your pitch, signify the Union forces (who wore blue
they interfere in your affairs and spoil things. uniforms) in the American Civil war
 Question of time: If something's a question of  Rags to riches: Someone who starts life very
time, it's certain to happen, though we don't poor and becomes rich goes from rags to
know exactly when. riches.
 Queue jumping: Someone who goes to the front  Raining cats and dogs: When it is raining cats
of a queue instead of waiting is jumping the and dogs, it is raining very heavily.
queue.

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 Rainy day: If you save something, especially  Rearrange the deckchairs on the Titanic: (UK) If
money, for a rainy day, you save it for some people are rearranging the deckchairs on the
possible problem or trouble in the future. Titanic, they are making small changes that will
 Raise Cain: (USA) If someone raises Cain, they have no effect as the project, company, etc, is
make a big fuss publicly, causing a in very serious trouble.
disturbance.  Recharge your batteries: If you recharge your
 Raise eyebrows: If something raises eyebrows, batteries, you do something to regain your
it shocks or surprises people. energy after working hard for a long time.
 Rake over old coals: (UK) If you go back to old  Recipe for disaster: A recipe for disaster is a
problems and try to bring them back, making mixture of people and events that could only
trouble for someone, you are raking over old possibly result in trouble.
coals.  Red carpet: If you give someone the red-carpet
 Rake someone over the coals: (USA) if you rake treatment, you give them a special welcome to
someone over the coals, you criticize or scold show that you think they are important. You
them severely. can roll out the red carpet, too.
 Rank and file: The rank and file are ordinary  Red herring: If something is a distraction from
members of a company, organization, etc, the real issues, it is a red herring.
excluding the managers and directors.  Red letter day: A red letter day is a one of good
 Rat race: The rat race is the ruthless, luck, when something special happens to you.
competitive struggle for success in work, etc.  Red light district: The red light district is the
 Rather you than me: Rather you than me is an area of a town or city where there is
expression used when someone has something prostitution, sex shops, etc.
unpleasant or arduous to do. It is meant in a  Red mist: If someone sees red or the red mist,
good natured way of expressing both sympathy they lose their temper and self-control
and having a bit of a laugh at their expense. completely.
 Raw deal: If you get a raw deal, you are treated  Red rag to a bull: If something is a red rag to a
unfairly. bull, it is something that will inevitably make
 Read from the same page: When people are somebody angry or cross.
reading from the same page, they say the same  Red tape: This is a negative term for the official
things in public about an issue. paperwork and bureaucracy that we have to
 Read someone the riot act: If you read someone deal with.
the riot act, you give them a clear warning that  Reds under the bed: An ironic allusion to the
if they don't stop doing something, they will be obsession some people have that there are reds
in serious trouble. (communists) everywhere plotting violent
 Real deal: If something is the real deal, it is revolution.
genuine and good.  Reduce to ashes: If something is reduced to
 Real McCoy: Something that's the real McCoy is ashes, it is destroyed or made useless. His
the genuine article, not a fake. infidelities reduced their relationship to ashes.
 Real plum: A real plum is a good opportunity.  Reinvent the wheel: If someone reinvents the
 Real trooper: A real trooper is someone who will wheel, they waste their time doing something
fight for what they believe in and doesn't give that has already been done by other people,
up easily.

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when they could be doing something more  Right royal: (UK) A right royal night out would
worthwhile. be an extremely exciting, memorable and fun
 Renaissance man: A Renaissance man is a one.
person who is talented in a number of different  Right up my alley: If something is right up your
areas, especially when their talents include alley, it suits you perfectly.
both the sciences and the arts.  Right up your street: If something is ideal for
 Rest is gravy: (USA) If the rest is gravy, it is you, it is right up your street.
easy and straightforward once you have  Ring a bell: If something rings a bell, it reminds
reached that stage. you of something you have heard before,
 Rest on your laurels: If someone rests on their though you may not be able to remember it
laurels, they rely on their past achievements, very well. A name may ring a bell, so you know
rather than trying to achieve things now. you have heard the name before, but cannot
 Revenge is sweet: When you are happy to be place it properly.
proved right, then you know that revenge is  Ringside seat: If you have a ringside seat, you
sweet. can observe something from a very close and
 Rewrite history: If you rewrite history, you clear position.
change your version of past events so as to  Rip van Winkle: Rip van Winkle is a character in
make yourself look better than you would if the a story who slept for twenty years, so if
truth was told. someone is a Rip van Winkle, they are behind
 Rhyme or reason: If something is without the times and out of touch with what's
rhyme or reason, it is unreasonable. ('Beyond happening now.
rhyme or reason' is an alternative.)  Rise and shine: If you wake up full of energy,
 Rice missionary: A rice missionary gives food you rise and shine.
to hungry people as a way of converting them  Rise from the ashes: If something rises from
to Christianity. the ashes, it recovers after a serious failure.
 Rich as Croesus: Someone who is as rich as  Road to Damascus: If someone has a great and
Croesus is very wealthy indeed. sudden change in their ideas or beliefs, then
 Rich man's family: A rich man's family consists this is a road to Damascus change, after the
of one son and one daughter. conversion of Saint Paul to Christianity while
 Ride roughshod: If someone rides roughshod heading to Damascus to persecute Christians.
over other people, they impose their will  Rob Peter to pay Paul: If you rob Peter to pay
without caring at all for other people's feelings. Paul, you try to solve one problem, but create
 Ride with the tide: If you ride with the tide, you another in doing so, often through short-term
accept the majority decision. planning.
 Right as rain: If things are right as rain, then  Rock the boat: If you rock the boat, you
everything is going well in your life. destabilize a situation by making trouble. It is
 Right out of the blocks: This means often used as advice; 'Don't rock the boat'.
immediately; at the very beginning. It describes  Rocket science: If something is not rocket
a sprinter blasting out of the starting blocks at science, it is not very complicated or difficult to
the beginning of a short distance race (e.g., understand. This idiom is normally used in the
100-yard dash, 50-yard dash). negative.

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 Roll out the red carpet: If you roll out the red  Rough edges: If something has rough edges, it
carpet, you treat someone in a special way, is still not a finished product and not all of a
especially when welcoming them. uniform standard.
 Roll with the punches: If you roll with the  Rough end of the stick: To get the rough end of
punches, you are flexible and able to adapt to the stick is to be treated unfairly or to come off
difficult circumstances. worse than the other party in a transaction,
 Roll your eyes: If you roll your eyes, you show situation or relationship.
with your eyes that you don't believe someone  Rough-hewn: If something, especially
or aren't interested in what they're saying. something made from wood or stone, is rough-
 Rolling in the aisles: If the audience watching hewn, it is unfinished or unpolished.
something are laughing loudly, the show has  Round the bend: If someone has gone round
them rolling in the aisles. the bend, they have stopped being rational
 Rome was not built in a day: This idiom means about something. If something drives you
that many things cannot be done instantly, and round the bend, it irritates you or makes you
require time and patience. angry.
 Root hog or die poor: (USA) It's a expression  Round the houses: If you go round the houses,
used in the Southern USA that means that you you do something in an inefficient way when
must look out for yourself as no one's going to there is a quicker, more convenient way.
do it for you. (It can be shortened to 'root hog'.  Rub shoulders: If you rub shoulders with
A hog is a pig.) people, you meet and spend time with them,
 Rooted to the spot: If someone is rooted to the especially when they are powerful or famous.
spot, they cannot move, either physically or  Rub someone up the wrong way: If you annoy
they cannot think their way out of a problem. or irritate someone when you didn't mean to,
 Rose-colored glasses: If people see things you rub them up the wrong way.
through rose-colored (colored) glasses, they  Rudderless ship: If an organization, company,
see them in a more positive light than they government, etc, is like a rudderless ship, it has
really are. no clear direction and drifts about without
 Rose-tinted glasses: If people see things reaching its goals.
through rose-tinted glasses, they see them in a  Ruffle a few feathers: If you ruffle a few
more positive light than they really are. feathers, you annoy some people when making
 Rough and ready: If something is rough and changes or improvements.
ready, it has not been carefully prepared, but is  Rule of thumb: Rule of thumb means
fit for its purpose. If a person is rough and approximately.
ready, they are not very refined or mannered.  Rule the roost: If someone rules the roost they
 Rough around the edges: If someone is rough are the boss. Example: There’s no doubt who
around the edges, they haven't mastered rules the roost in this house.
something, though they show promise.  Run a mile: If someone "Runs a mile", they do
 Rough diamond: A rough diamond is a person everything they can to avoid a situation.
who might be a bit rude but who is good Example: "I was worried that he'd take one look
underneath it all. at me and run a mile."

254
 Run amok: When things or people are running empty but still running. We say it is 'running on
amok, they are wild and out of control.('Run fumes'.
amuck' is also used.)  Run-of-the-mill: If something is run-of-the-
 Run around the bush: (USA) If you run around mill, there is nothing exceptional about it- it is
the bush, it means that you're taking a long ordinary or average.
time to get to the point.  Russian roulette: If people take a dangerous
 Run before you can walk: If someone tries to and unnecessary risk, they are playing Russian
run before they can walk, they try to do roulette.
something requiring a high level of knowledge  Rusty needle: When something is described as
before they have learned the basics. a rusty needle, it is badly damaged but still
 Run circles around someone: If you can run works, or if someone very is sick or tired but
circles around someone, you are smarter and still manages to do things at a fairly good level.
intellectually quicker than they are. An alternative form is "a tarnished needle".
 Run into the sand: If something runs into the  Sacred cow : Something that is a sacred cow is
sand, it fails to achieve a result. held in such respect that it cannot be criticised
 Run off your feet: If you are run off your feet, or attacked.
you are extremely busy and don't have enough  Safe and sound: If you arrive safe and sound,
time to do everything. then nothing has harmed you on your way.
 Run out of gas: If a campaign, project, etc, runs  Safe bet: A proposition that is a safe bet
out of gas, it loses energy and momentum, and doesn't have any risks attached.
progress slows or halts.  Safe pair of hands: A person who can be
 Run rings around someone: If you run rings trusted to do something without causing any
around someone, you are so much better than trouble is a safe pair of hands.
them that they have no chance of keeping up  Safety in numbers: If a lot of people do
with you. something risky at the same time, the risk is
 Run something into the ground: If people run reduced because there is safety in numbers.
something into the ground, they treat or  Saigon moment: (USA) A Saigon moment is
manage it so badly that they ruin it. when people realize that something has gone
 Run the gauntlet: If somebody is being wrong and that they will lose or fail.
criticised harshly by a lot of people, they are  Sail close to the wind: If you sail close to the
said to run the gauntlet. wind, you take risks to do something, going
 Run the show: If someone runs the show, they close to the limit of what is allowed or
like to be in control and make all the decisions. acceptable.
 Run your mouth off: If someone runs their  Sail under false colors: Someone who sails
mouth off, they talk too much. under false colors (colors) is hypocritical or
 Running on empty: If you are exhausted but pretends to be something they aren't in order to
keep going, you are running on empty. deceive people.
 Running on fumes: If someone has used all  Salad days: Your salad days are an especially
their energy on something, but must continue, happy period of your life.
they are running on fumes. It is an expression  Salt in a wound: If you rub salt in a wound, you
used when driving a car when the needle is on make someone feel bad about something that

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255
is already a painful experience. 'Pour salt on a  Scattered to the four winds: If something's
wound' is an alternative form of the idiom. scattered to the four winds, it goes out in all
 Salt of the earth: People who are salt of the directions.
earth are decent, dependable and  Scent blood: If you can scent blood, you feel
unpretentious. that a rival is having difficulties and you are
 Salty dog: A salty dog is an experienced sailor. going to beat them.
 Same old, same old: When nothing changes, it's  Schoolyard pick: When people take it in turns to
the same old, same old. choose a member of a team, it is a schoolyard
 Save face: If someone saves face, they manage pick.
to protect their reputation.  Scot free: If someone escapes Scot free, they
 Save someone's bacon: If something saves avoid payment or punishment. 'Scot' is an old
your bacon, it saves your life or rescues you word for a tax, so it originally referred to
from a desperate situation. People can also avoiding taxes, though now has a wider sense
save your bacon. of not being punished for someone that you
 Save your skin: If someone saves their skin, have done.
they manage to avoid getting into serious  Scraping the barrel: When all the best people,
trouble. things or ideas and so on are used up and
 Saved by the bell: If you are saved by the bell, people try to make do with what they have left,
you are rescued from a danger or a tricky they are scraping the barrel.
situation just in time.  Scream blue murder: If someone shouts very
 Saving grace: If someone has some character loudly in anger, or fear, they scream blue
defects, but has a characteristic that murder.
compensate for their failings and  Screw loose: If someone has a screw loose,
shortcomings, this is their saving grace. they are crazy.
 Say uncle: (USA) If you say uncle, you admit  Screwed if you do, screwed if you don't: This
defeat. ('Cry uncle' is an alternative form.) means that no matter what you decide or do in
 Say when: People say this when pouring a drink a situation, there will be negative
as a way of telling you to tell them when there's consequences.
enough in your glass.  Sea legs: If you are getting your sea legs, it
 Say-so: If you do something on someone else's takes you a while to get used to something
say-so, you do it on the authority, advice or new.
recommendation.  Seamy side: The seamy side of something is
 Scales fall from your eyes: When the scales fall the unpleasant or sordid aspect it has.
from your eyes, you suddenly realize the truth  Searching question: A searching question goes
about something. straight to the heart of the subject matter,
 Scare the daylights out of someone: If you possibly requiring an answer with a degree of
scare the daylights out of someone, you terrify honesty that the other person finds
them. (This can be made even stronger by uncomfortable.
saying 'the living daylights'.)  Second thoughts: If some has second thoughts,
 Scarlet woman: This idiom is used as a they start to think that an idea, etc, is not as
pejorative term for a sexually promiscuous good as it sounded at first and are starting to
woman, especially an adulteress. have doubts.

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 Second wind: If you overcome tiredness and  Send someone packing: If you send someone
find new energy and enthusiasm, you have packing, you send them away, normally when
second wind. they want something from you.
 See eye to eye: If people see eye to eye, they  Send someone to Coventry: (UK) If you send
agree about everything. someone to Coventry, you refuse to talk to
 See red: If someone sees red, they become very them or co-operate with them.
angry about something.  Separate the sheep from the goats: If you
 See the light: When someone sees the light, separate the sheep from the goats, you sort out
they realize the truth. the good from the bad.
 See you anon: (UK) If somebody says this when  Separate the wheat from the chaff: When you
leaving, they expect to see you again soon. separate the wheat from the chaff, you select
 See you later: A casual way of saying to friends what is useful or valuable and reject what is
I'll see you again, sometime, (without a definite useless or worthless.
date or time having been set) - this is often  Serve time: When someone is serving time, they
abbreviated to 'Later' or 'Laters' as an are in prison.
alternative way of saying goodbye.  Set in stone: If something is set in stone, it
 See you on the big drum: A good night phrase cannot be changed or altered.
to children  Set the wheels in motion: When you set the
 Seed money: Seed money is money that is used wheels in motion, you get something started.
to start a small business.  Set your sights on: If you set your sights on
 Seeing is believing: This idiom means that someone or something, it is your ambition to
people can only really believe what they beat them or to achieve that goal.
experience personally.  Seven sheets to the wind: If someone is seven
 Seen better days: If something's seen better sheets to the wind, they are very drunk.
days, it has aged badly and visibly compared to  Seventh heaven: If you are in seventh heaven,
when it was new. The phrase can also be used you are extremely happy.
to describe people.  Shades of meaning: Shades of meaning is a
 Sell down the river: If you sell someone down phrase used to describe the small, subtle
the river, you betray their trust. differences in meaning between similar words
 Sell like hot cakes: If a product is selling very or phrases; 'kid' and 'youth' both refer to young
well, it is selling like hot cakes. people, but carry differing views and ideas
 Sell like hotcakes: If something is selling like about young people.
hotcakes, it is very popular and selling very  Shaggy dog story: A shaggy dog story is a joke
well. which is a long story with a silly end.
 Sell your birthright for a mess of pottage: If a  Shake a leg: If you shake a leg, you are out of
person sells their birthright for a mess of bed and active.
pottage, they accept some trivial financial or  Shanks's pony: (UK) If you go somewhere by
other gain, but lose something much more Shanks's pony, you walk there.
important. 'Sell your soul for a mess of pottage'  Shape up or ship out: If someone has to shape
is an alternative form. up or ship out, they have to improve or leave
 Sell your soul: If someone sells their soul, they their job, organization, etc.
betray the most precious beliefs.

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 Sharp as a tack: (USA) If someone is as sharp  Short end of the stick: If someone gets the
as a tack, they are very clever indeed. short end of the stick, they are unfairly treated
 Sharp cookie: Someone who isn't easily or don't get what they deserve.
deceived or fooled is a sharp cookie.  Short horse soon curried: A convenient and
 Shed light: If you shed light on something, you superficial explanation that is normally
make it clearer and easier to understand. unconvincing is a short horse soon curried.
 Shifting sands: If the sands are shifting,  Short shrift: If somebody gives you short shrift,
circumstances are changing. they treat you rudely and brusquely, showing
 Shilly-shally: If people shilly-shally, they can't no interest or sympathy.
make up their minds about something and put  Short-change: If you are short-changed,
off the decision someone cheats you of money or doesn't give
 Ship came in: If your ship has come in, you full value for something.
something very good has happened to you.  Shot across the bow: A shot across the bow is a
 Shipshape and Bristol fashion: If things are warning to tell someone to stop doing
shipshape and Bristol fashion, they are in something or face very serious consequences.
perfect working order  Shot in the dark: If you have a shot in the dark
 Shoe is on the other foot: If the shoe is on the at something, you try something where you
other foot, someone is experiencing what they have little hope of success.
used to make others experience, normally  Shotgun marriage: A shotgun marriage, or
negative things. shotgun wedding, is one that is forced because
 Shoestring: If you do something on a of pregnancy. It is also used idiomatically for a
shoestring, you try to spend the absolute compromise, agreement or arrangement that is
minimum amount of money possible on it. forced upon groups or people by necessity.
 Shoot down in flames: If someone demolishes  Show me the money: When people say this,
your argument, it (and you) have been shot they either want to know how much they will be
down in flames. paid for something or want to see evidence that
 Shoot from the hip: Someone who shoots from something is valuable or worth paying for.
the hip talks very directly or insensitively  Show someone a clean pair of heels: If you
without thinking beforehand. show someone a clean pair of heels, you run
 Shoot the breeze: When you shoot the breeze, faster than them when they are chasing you.
you chat in a relaxed way.  Show someone the ropes: If you show someone
 Shoot yourself in the foot: If you shoot yourself the ropes, you explain to someone new how
in the foot, you do something that damages things work and how to do a job.
your ambition, career, etc.  Show your true colors: To show your true colors
 Shooting fish in a barrel: If something is like is to reveal yourself as you really are.
shooting fish in a barrel, it is so easy that  Shrinking violet: A shrinking violet is a shy
success is guaranteed. person who doesn't express their views and
 Shop floor: 'Shop floor' refers to the part of an opinions.
organization where the work is actually  Sick and tired: If you are sick and tired of
performed rather than just managed. something, it has been going on for a long time
and you can no longer tolerate it.

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 Sick as a dog: If somebody's as sick as a dog,  Sit pretty: Someone who's sitting pretty is in a
they throw up (=vomit) violently. very advantageous situation.
 Sick as a parrot: If someone's sick as a parrot  Sitting duck: A sitting duck is something or
about something, they are unhappy, someone that is easy to criticize or target.
disappointed or depressed about it.  Six feet under: If someone is six feet under,
 Sick to death: If you are sick to death of they are dead.
something, you have been exposed to so much  Six of one and half-a-dozen of the other: This is
of it that you cannot take any more. an idiom used when there is little or no
 Sight for sore eyes: Someone or something that difference between two options.
is a sight for sore eyes is a pleasure to see.  Sixes and sevens: If something is all at sixes
 Sight to behold: If something is a sight to and sevens, then there is a lot of disagreement
behold, it means that seeing it is in some way and confusion about what should be done.
special, either spectacularly beautiful or,  Sixty-four-thousand-dollar-question: The
equally, incredibly ugly or revolting, etc. sixty-four-thousand-dollar-question is the
 Signed, sealed and delivered: If something's most important question that can be asked
signed, sealed and delivered, it has been done about something.
correctly, following all the necessary  Skate on thin ice: If someone is skating on thin
procedures. ice, they are taking a big risk.
 Silence is golden: It is often better to say  Skeleton in the closet: If someone has a
nothing than to talk, so silence is golden. skeleton in the closet, they have a dark,
 Silly season: The silly season is midsummer shameful secret in their past that they want to
when Parliament is closed and nothing much is remain secret.
happening that is newsworthy, which reduces  Skin and bones: If someone is skin and bones,
the press to reporting trivial and stupid stories. they are very underweight and look bad.
 Silver bullet: A silver bullet is a complete  Skin in the game: A person who has skin in the
solution to a large problem, a solution that game has invested in the company they are
seems magical. running.
 Silver screen: The silver screen is the cinema.  Skin someone alive: If someone skins you alive,
 Silver surfer: A silver surfer is an elderly person they admonish and punish you hard.
who uses the internet.  Skunkworks: An unauthorized, or hidden
 Since time immemorial: If something has program or activity, often research-oriented,
happened since time immemorial, it's been and out of the bureaucratic chain of command
going on for such a long time that nobody can is known as a 'skunk works'.
remember a time without it.  Sky is the limit: When people say that the sky is
 Sing from the same hymn sheet: If people are the limit, they think that there are no limits to
singing from the same hymn sheet, they are the possibilities something could have.
expressing the same opinions in public.  Slap on the wrist: If someone gets a slap on the
 Sink or swim: Of you are left to sink or swim, no wrist, they get a very minor punishment when
one gives you any help and it's up to you they could have been punished more severely.
whether you fail or succeed.  Sleep like a baby: If you sleep very well, you
 Sit on the fence: If someone sits on the fence, sleep like a baby.
they try not to support either side in a dispute.

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 Sleep like a log: If you sleep like a log, you  Sly as a fox: Someone who is as sly as a fox is
sleep very soundly. cunning and experienced and can get what they
 Sleep well- don't let the bedbugs bite: This is a want, often in an underhand way.
way of wishing someone a good night's sleep.  Smack in the face: If something is a smack in
 Sleight of hand: Sleight of hand is the ability to the face, it is a shock, usually one that impedes
use your hands in a clever way, like a magician progress.
performing tricks you can't see.  Small beer: If something is small beer, it's
 Slim chance: A slim chance is a very small unimportant.
chance.  Small dog, tall weeds: This idiom is used to
 Slip of the tongue: If you say something describe someone the speaker does not believe
accidentally, it is a slip of the tongue. has the ability or resources to handle a task or
 Slip through one's fingers: If something slips job.
through one’s fingers it escapes or is lost  Small fry: If someone is small fry, they are
through carelessness. unimportant. The term is often used when the
 Slippery customer: A person from whom it is police arrest the less important criminals, but
difficult to get anything definite or fixed is a are unable to catch the leaders and
slippery customer. masterminds.
 Slippery slope: A slippery slope is where a  Small-time: If a person or a thing is called
measure would lead to further worse measures. 'small-time' it means they're inconsequential,
 Slough of despond: If someone is very not worth much, don't play in the 'big leagues',
depressed or in despair, they're in a slough of as in 'a small-time operator'.
despond.  Smart Alec: A smart Alec is a conceited person
 Slow and steady wins the race: This expression who likes to show off how clever and
means that consistency, although progress knowledgeable they are.
may be slow, will eventually be more beneficial  Smart as a whip: A person who is smart as a
than being hasty or careless just to get whip is very clever.
something done.  Smarty pants: A smarty pants is someone who
 Slow boat to China: This idiom is used to displays the intelligence in an annoying way.
describe something that is very slow and takes  Smell a rat: If you smell a rat, you know
a long time. instinctively that something is wrong or that
 Slow but sure: If something or someone is slow someone is lying to you.
but sure, they may take their time to do  Smoke and mirrors: An attempt to conceal
something, but they are reliable. something is smoke and mirrors.
 Slower than molasses going uphill in January:  Smoke like a chimney: Someone who smokes
(USA) To move extremely slowly. Molasses very heavily smokes like a chimney.
drips slowly anyway but add January cold and  Smoke the peace pipe: If people smoke the
gravity, dripping uphill would be an peace pipe, they stop arguing and fighting.
impossibility, thereby making the molasses  Smokestack industry: Heavy industries like iron
move very slowly indeed! and steel production, especially if they produce
 Slowly, slowly catchy monkey: This means that a lot of pollution, are smokestack industries.
eventually you will achieve your goal.  Smoking gun: A smoking gun is definitive proof
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 Smooth as a baby's bottom: If something is  Sour grapes: When someone says something
smooth as a baby's bottom, it has a regular, flat critical or negative because they are jealous, it
surface. is a case of sour grapes.
 Smooth sailing: If something is smooth sailing,  Sow the seeds: When people sow the seeds,
then you can progress without difficulty. ('Plain they start something that will have a much
sailing' is an also used.) greater impact in the future.
 Snake in the grass: Someone who is a snake in  Sow your wild oats: If a young man sows his
the grass betrays you even though you have wild oats, he has a period of his life when he
trusted them. does a lot of exciting things and has a lot of
 Snake oil salesperson: A person who promotes sexual relationships. for e.g. He'd spent his
something that doesn't work, is selling snake twenties sowing his wild oats but felt that it
oil. was time to settle down.
 Snake oil: Advice or medicine which is of no
use  Spanish practices: Unauthorized working
 Snow job: (USA) A snow job is an attempt to methods that benefit those who follow them
persuade or deceive someone, especially when are Spanish practices.
flattery is used.  Spanner in the works: (UK) If someone puts or
 Snug as a bug in a rug: If you're as snug as a throws a spanner in the works, they ruin a plan.
bug in a rug, you are feeling very comfortable In American English, 'wrench' is used instead of
indeed. 'spanner'.
 So it goes: This idiom is used to be fatalistic  Spare the rod and spoil the child: This means
and accepting when something goes wrong. that if you don't discipline children, they will
 So on and so forth: And so on and so forth become spoilt.
mean the same as etcetera (etc.).  Speak of the devil! : If you are talking about
 Sod's law: Sod's law states that if something someone and they happen to walk in, you can
can go wrong then it will. use this idiom as a way of letting them know
 Soft soap someone: If you soft soap someone, you were talking about them.
you flatter them.  Speak volumes: If something speaks volumes,
 Some other time: If somebody says they'll do it tells us a lot about the real nature of
something some other time, they mean at some something or someone, even though it may
indefinite time in the future, possibly never, but only be a small detail.
they certainly don't want to feel obliged to fix a  Speak with a forked tongue: To say one thing
specific time or date. and mean another, to lie, to be two-faced
 Something nasty in the woodshed: Something  Spend a penny: (UK) This is a euphemistic
nasty in the woodshed means that someone as idiom meaning to go to the toilet.
a dark secret or an unpleasant experience in  Spend like a sailor: Someone who spends their
their past. money wildly spends like a sailor.
 Sound as a bell: If something or someone is as  Spick and span: If a room is spick and span, it
sound as a bell, they are very healthy or in very is very clean and tidy.
good condition.  Spill the beans: If you spill the beans, you
 Sound as a pound: (UK) if something is as reveal a secret or confess to something.
sound as a pound; it is very good or reliable.

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 Spin a yarn: If someone spins a yarn, they tell a  Sputnik moment: A Sputnik moment is a point
story, usually a long or fanciful one. where people realize that they are threatened of
 Spinning a line: When someone spins you a challenged and have to redouble their efforts to
line, they are trying to deceive you by lying. catch up. It comes from the time when the
 Spinning a yarn: When someone spins you a Soviet Union launched the first satellite, the
yarn, they are trying to deceive you by lying. Sputnik 1, and beat the USA into space.
 Spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak: If the  Square meal: A square meal is a substantial or
spirit is willing but the flesh is weak, someone filling meal.
lacks the willpower to change things they do  Square Mile: (UK) The Square Mile is the City,
because they derive too much pleasure from the financial area of London.
them.  Square peg in a round hole: If somebody's in a
 Spirit of the law: The spirit of the law is the idea situation, organization, etc, where they don't fit
or ideas that the people who made the law in and feel out of place, they are a square peg in
wanted to have effect. a round hole.
 Spit blood: If someone is spitting blood, they  Squared away: Being prepared or ready for
are absolutely furious. business or tasks at hand. Having the proper
 Spit the dummy: Reference to an infant spitting knowledge, skill and equipment to handle your
out their dummy (or pacifier) in order to cry. 'To assignment or station. 'He is a great addition to
spit the dummy' is to give up. the squad; he is squared away.'
 Spitting image: If a person is the spitting image  Squeaky clean: If something is squeaky clean,
of somebody, they look exactly alike.('Spit and it is very clean indeed- spotless. If a person is
image' is also used.) squeaky clean, they have no criminal record
 Split hairs: If people split hairs, they and are not suspected of illegal or immoral
concentrate on tiny and unimportant details to activities.
find fault with something.  Squeaky wheel gets the grease: (USA) when
 Split the blanket: If people split the blanket, it people say that the squeaky wheel gets the
means they get a divorce or end their grease, they mean that the person who
relationship. complains or protests the loudest attracts
 Spoil the ship for a ha'pworth of tar: (UK) If attention and service.
someone spoils the ship for a ha'pworth  Squeeze blood out of a turnip: (USA) when
(halfpenny's worth) of tar, they spoil something people say that you can't squeeze blood out of
completely by trying to make a small economy. a turnip, it means that you cannot get
 Spot on: If something is spot on, it is exactly something from a person, especially money
right. that they don't have.
 Sprat to catch a mackerel: If you use a sprat to  Stalking horse: A stalking horse is a strategy or
catch a mackerel, you make a small something used to conceal your intentions. It is
expenditure or take a small risk in the hope of a often used where someone put themselves
much greater gain. forwards as a candidate to divide opponents or
 Spur of the moment: If you do something on to hide the real candidate.
the spur of the moment, you do it because you  Stand in good stead: If something will stand
felt like it at that time, without any planning or you in good stead, it will probably be
preparation. advantageous in the future.

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 Stars and stripes: The stars and stripes is the obviously different from the things that are
American flag. around it.
 Stars in your eyes: Someone who dreams of  Stick to your guns: If you stick to your guns,
being famous has stars in their eyes. you keep your position even though people
 Start from scratch: When you start something attack or criticize you.
from scratch, you start at the very beginning.  Stick your neck out: If you stick you neck out,
 State of the art: If something is state of the art, you take a risk because you believe in
it is the most up-to-date model incorporating something.
the latest and best technology.  Sticking point: A sticking point is a
 Status quo: Someone who wants to preserve controversial issue that blocks progress in
the status quo wants a particular situation to negotiations, etc, where compromise is unlikely
remain unchanged. or impossible.
 Steal a March: This expression indicates the  Stick-in-the-mud: A stick-in-the-mud is a
stealthiness of a person over another to gain person who is old-fashioned, does not want to
advantage of the situation. For instance, if two change the way they do things or innovate.
persons are offered some jobs which are  Stick-in-the-mud: A stick-in-the-mud is
vacant, they resolve to go together next day at someone who doesn't like change and wants
an agreed time, but one of them, without telling things to stay the same.
the other, goes earlier than the other and  Sticky end: (UK) If someone comes to a sticky
secures the better of the two jobs, he is said to end, they die in an unpleasant way. ('Meet a
steal a march on the other person. sticky end' is also used.)
 Steal someone's thunder: If someone steals  Sticky fingers: The tendency to keep (or steal)
your thunder, they take the credit and praise for an object you touch. Also, to steal something
something you did. quickly without anyone noticing. (ex: 'You stole
 Steer clear of: If you steer clear of something, that guy's wallet? You have some sticky
you avoid it. fingers, my friend.')
 Stem the tide: If people try to stem the tide,  Sticky wicket: (UK) If you are on a sticky wicket,
they are trying to stop something unpleasant you are in a difficult situation.
from getting worse, usually when they don't  Stiff upper lip: (UK) If you keep your emotions
succeed. to yourself and don't let others know how you
 Step on it: This idiom is a way of telling feel when something bad happens, you keep a
someone to hurry up or to go faster. stiff upper lip.
 Step up to the plate: If someone steps up to the  Stiff-necked: A stiff-necked person is rather
plate, they take on or accept a challenge or a formal and finds it hard to relax in company.
responsibility.  Still in the game: If someone is still in the
 Stew in your own juices: If you leave someone game, they may be having troubles competing,
to stew in their own juices, you leave them to but they are not yet finished and may come
worry about the consequences of what they back.
have done wrong or badly.  Still waters run deep: People use this idiom to
 Stick out like a sore thumb: If something sticks imply that people who are quiet and don't try to
or stands out like a sore thumb, it is clearly and attract attention are often more interesting
than people who do try to get attention.

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 Stitch in time saves nine: A stitch in time saves  Strike a chord: If strikes a chord, it is familiar to
nine means that if a job needs doing it is better you, reminds you of something or is connected
to do it now, because it will only get worse, like to you somehow.
a hole in clothes that requires stitching.  Strike while the iron is hot: If you strike while
 Stone dead: This idiom is a way of emphasizing the iron is hot you do something when things
that there were absolutely no signs of life or are going well for you and you have a good
movement. chance to succeed.
 Stone's throw: If a place is a stone's throw from  Stroll down memory lane: If you take a stroll
where you are, it is a very short distance away. down memory lane, you talk about the past or
 Stool pigeon: (USA) A stool pigeon is a police revisit places that were important to you in the
informer. past. (You can also 'take a trip down memory
 Storm in a teacup: If someone exaggerates a lane'.)
problem or makes a small problem seem far  Strong as an ox: Someone who's exceedingly
greater than it really is, then they are making a strong physically is said to be as strong as an
storm in a teacup. ox.
 Straight face: If someone keeps a straight face,  Stubborn as a mule: Someone who will not
they remain serious and do not show emotion listen to other people's advice and won't
or amusement. change their way of doing things is as stubborn
 Straight from the shoulder: If someone talks as a mule.
straight from the shoulder, they talk honestly  Stuffed to the gills: If someone is stuffed to the
and plainly. gills, they have eaten a lot and are very full.
 Strain every nerve: If you strain every nerve,  Succeed in the clutch: If you succeed in the
you make a great effort to achieve something. clutch, you perform at a crucial time; it is
 Strange at the best of times: To describe particularly used in sports for the decisive
someone or something as really weird or moments of the game. The opposite is 'fail in
unpleasant in a mild way the clutch.'
 Straw man: A straw man is a weak argument  Sunday driver: A Sunday driver drives very
that is easily defeated. It can also be a person slowly and makes unexpected maneuvers.
who is used as to give an illegal or  Sure as eggs is eggs: These means absolutely
inappropriate activity an appearance of certain, and we do say 'is' even though it is
respectability. grammatically wrong.
 Straw poll: A straw poll is a small unofficial  Sure-fire: If something is sure-fire, it is certain
survey or ballot to find out what people think to succeed. ('Surefire' is also used.)
about an issue.  Swansong: A person's swansong is their final
 Straw that broke the camel's back: The straw achievement or public appearance.
that broke the camel's back is the problem that  Swear like a sailor: Someone who is foul-
made you lose your temper or the problem that mouthed and uses bad language all the time
finally brought about the collapse of swears like a sailor.
something.  Swear like a trooper: Someone who is foul-
 Streets ahead: If people are streets ahead of mouthed and uses bad language all the time
their rivals, they are a long way in front. swears like a trooper.

264
 Sweat blood: If you sweat blood, you make an  Take a punch: If somebody takes a blow,
extraordinary effort to achieve something. something bad happens to them.
 Sweep off your feet: If you are swept off your  Take a rain check: If you take a rain check, you
feet, you lose control emotionally when you fall decline an offer now, suggesting you will
in love or are really impressed. accept it later. (Rain check is also used.)
 Sweep things under the carpet: If people try to  Take a straw poll: If you take a straw poll, you
ignore unpleasant things and forget about sound a number of people out to see their
them, they sweep them under the carpet. opinions on an issue or topic.
 Sweet as a gumdrop: This means that  Take by the scruff of the neck: If you take
something or someone is very nice or pretty. something by the scruff on the neck, you take
 Sweet tooth: If you have a sweet tooth, you like complete control of it.
eating food with sugar in it.  Take for a test drive: If you take something for
 Swim against the tide: If you swim against the a test driver, you try something to see if you
tide, you try to do something that is very like it.
difficult because there is a lot of opposition to  Take for granted: If you take something for
you. ('Go against the tide' is an alternative granted, you don't worry or think about it
form.) because you assume you will always have it. If
 Swim with the fishes: If someone is swimming you take someone for granted, you don't show
with the fishes, they are dead, especially if they your appreciation to them.
have been murdered. 'Sleep with the fishes' is  Take forty winks: If you take 40 winks, you
an alternative form. have a short sleep.
 Swim with the tide: If you swim with the tide,  Take it on the chin: If you take something on
you do the same as people around you and the chin, something bad happens to you and
accept the general consensus. ('Go with the you take it directly without fuss.
tide' is an alternative form.)  Take no prisoners: If people take no prisoners,
 Swimmingly: If things are going swimmingly, they do things in a very aggressive way, without
they are going very well. considering any harm they might do to achieve
 Swing the lead: If you swing the lead, you their objectives.
pretend to be ill or do not do your share of the  Take someone down a peg: If someone is taken
work. down a peg (or taken down a peg or two), they
 Swings and roundabouts: If something's lose status in the eyes of others because of
swings and roundabouts, it has about as many something they have done wrong or badly.
disadvantages as it has advantages.  Take someone for a ride: If you are taken for a
 Tables are turned: When the tables are turned, ride, you are deceived by someone.
the situation has changed giving the advantage  Take someone to the woodshed: If someone is
to the party who had previously been at a taken to the woodshed, they are punished for
disadvantage. something they have done.
 Tackle an issue: If you tackle an issue or  Take the biscuit: (UK) If something takes the
problem, you resolve or deal with it. biscuit, it is the absolute limit.
 Take a leaf out of someone's book: If you take a  Take the bull by its horns: Taking a bull by its
leaf out of someone's book, you copy horns would be the most direct but also the
something they do because it will help you. most dangerous way to try to compete with

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265
such an animal. When we use the phrase in  Taken as read: If something can be taken as
everyday talk, we mean that the person we are read, it is so definite that it's not necessary to
talking about tackles their problems directly talk about it.
and is not worried about any risks involved.  Tale of the tape: This idiom is used when
 Take the chair: If you take the chair, your comparing things, especially in sports; it comes
become the chairman or chairwoman of a from boxing where the fighters would be
committee, etc. measured with a tape measure before a fight.
 Take the fall: If you tall the fall, you accept the  Talk a blue streak: (USA) If someone talks a
blame and possibly the punishment for blue streak, they speak quickly and at length.
another's wrongdoing, with the implication that ('Talk up a blue streak' is also used.)
the true culprit, for political or other reasons,  Talk a glass eye to sleep: Someone who could
cannot be exposed as guilty (accompanied by a talk a glass eye to sleep is very boring and
public suspicion that a reward of some sort repetitive.
may follow).  Talk is cheap: It's easy to talk about something
 Take the floor: Start talking or giving a speech but harder to actually do it.
to a group  Talk nineteen to the dozen: If someone talks
 Take the plunge: If you take the plunge, you very quickly, they talk nineteen to the dozen.
decide to do something or commit yourself  Talk of the town: When everybody is talking
even though you know there is an element of about particular people and events, they are he
risk involved. talk of the town.
 Take the rough with the smooth: People say  Talk out of the back of your head: If someone is
that you have to take the rough with the talking out of the back of their head, they are
smooth, meaning that you have to be prepared talking rubbish.
to accept the disadvantages as well of the  Talk out of your hat: If someone is talking out
advantages of something. of their hat, they're talking utter rubbish,
 Take to your heels: If you take to your heels, especially if compounded with total ignorance
you run away. of the subject on which they are pontificating.
 Take up the torch: If you take up the torch, you ('Talk through your hat' is also used.)
take on a challenge or responsibility, usually  Talk shop: If you talk shop, you talk about work
when someone else retires, or leaves an matters, especially if you do this outside work.
organization, etc.  Talk the hind legs off a donkey: A person who is
 Take your breath away: If something takes your excessively or extremely talkative can talk the
breath away, it astonishes or surprises you. hind legs off a donkey.
 Take your eye off the ball: If someone takes  Talk turkey: When people talk turkey, they
their eye off the ball, they don't concentrate on discuss something frankly.
something important that they should be  Talking to a brick wall: If you talk to someone
looking at. and they do not listen to you, it is like talking to
 Take your hat off to somebody: If you take your a brick wall.
hat off to someone, you acknowledge that they  Tall drink of water: Someone who is very tall
have done something exceptional or otherwise and slender is a tall drink of water. ('A tall glass
deserve your respect. of water' is also used.)

266
 Tall order: Something that is likely to be hard to  Test the waters: If you test the waters, or test
achieve or fulfill is a tall order. the water, you experiment to see how
 Tall story: A tall story is one that is untrue and successful or acceptable something is before
unbelievable. implementing it.
 Tally ho! : (UK) This is an exclamation used for  That is the way the cookie crumbles: "That's
encouragement before doing something the way the cookie crumbles" means that
difficult or dangerous. things don't always turn out the way we want.
 Tar baby: A tar baby is a problem that gets  That's all she wrote: (USA) This idiom is used to
worse when people try to sort it out. show that something has ended and there is
 Taste blood: If someone has tasted blood, they nothing more to say about something.
have achieved something and are encouraged  The ball's in your court: If somebody says this
to think that victory is within their grasp. to you, they mean that it's up to you to decide
 Taste of your own medicine: If you give or take the next step.
someone a taste of their own medicine, you do  The be all and end all: The phrase 'The be all
something bad to someone that they have done and end all' means that a something is the final,
to you to teach them a lesson. or ultimate outcome or result of a situation or
 Teach your grandmother to suck eggs: When event.
people say 'don't teach your grandmother to  The bigger they are, the harder they fall: This
suck eggs', they mean that people shouldn't try idiom means that the more powerful have more
to teach someone who has experience or is an to lose, so when they suffer something bad, it is
expert in that area. worse for them.
 Teacher's pet: The teacher's favorite pupil is  The common weal: If something is done for the
the teacher's pet, especially if disliked by the common weal, it is done in the interests and for
other pupils. the benefit of the majority or the general public.
 Tear your hair out: If someone is tearing their  The grass is always greener: This idiom means
hair out, they are extremely worried or agitated that what other people have or do looks
about something. preferable to our life. The complete phrase is
 Tears before bedtime: (UK) This idiom is used 'The grass is always greener on the other side
when something seems certain to go wrong or of the fence'.
cause trouble.  The line forms on the right: Something's
 Teething problems: (UK) The problems that a meaning is becoming clear when the line forms
project has when it is starting are the teething on the right.
problems.  The more the merrier: The more the merrier
 Tell them where the dog died: (USA) If you tell means that the greater the quantity or the
them where the dog died, you strongly and bigger the number of something, the happier
sharply correct someone. the speaker will be.
 Tempest in a teapot: If people exaggerate the  The Mountie always gets his man: (Canada)
seriousness of a situation or problem, they are The Mounties are the Royal Canadian Mounted
making a tempest in a teapot. Police and they have a reputation for catching
 Ten a penny: (UK) If something is ten a penny, criminals they are after.
it is very common. ("Two a penny" is also
used.)

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 The penny dropped: When the penny drops,  Thick and fast: If things are happening thick
someone belatedly understands something that and fast, they are happening so fast they
everyone else has long since understood. seemed to be joined together.
 The plot thickens: When the plot thickens, a  Thick as mince: (UK) If someone is as thick as
situation become more complicated and mince, they are very stupid indeed.
difficult.  Thick as thieves: If people are thick as thieves,
 The rough and tumble: The rough and tumble they are very close friends who have no secrets
refers to areas of life like business, sports, from each other.
politics, etc, where competition is hard and  Thick-skinned: If a person is thick-skinned,
people will take any advantage that they can. they are not affected by criticism.
 The sands of time: The sands of time is an  Thin as a rake: A rake is a garden tool with a
idiom meaning that time runs out either long, thin, wooden handle, so someone very
through something reaching an end or through thin is thin as a rake.
a person's death. It comes from the sand used  Thin blue line: (UK) The thin blue line is a term
in hourglasses, an ancient way of measuring for the police, suggesting that they stand
time. between an ordered society and potential
 The short straw: If you take the short straw, you chaos. (Police uniforms are blue.)
lose a selection process, which means that you  Thin end of the wedge: The thin end of the
have to do something unpleasant. wedge is something small and seemingly
 The sun might rise in the west: When people unimportant that will lead to something much
say this, they mean that they don't expect bigger and more serious.
something to happen.  Thin line: If there's a thin line between things,
 The whole shooting match: Everything, the it's hard to distinguish them- there's a thin line
entire object, or all the related parts. between love and hate.
 The world and his wife: If the world and his wife  Think outside the box: If you think outside the
were somewhere, then huge numbers of people box, you think in an imaginative and creative
were present. way.
 Their bark is worse than their bite: If someone's  Think the world of: To hold something or
bark is worse than their bite, they get angry and someone in very high esteem. To love or admire
shout and make threats, but don't actually do immensely.
anything.  Thin-skinned: If somebody is thin-skinned, they
 There are many ways to skin a cat: This is an are very sensitive to any sort of criticism.
expression meaning there are many different  Third degree: If someone is given the third
ways of doing the same thing. degree, they are put under a great deal of
 There's never a road without a turning: No pressure and intimidation to force them to tell
situation in life stays the same forever. the truth about something.
 There's no such thing as a free lunch: This  Third rail: The third rail of something is
idiom means that you don't get things for free, dangerous to alter or change. Originally, the
so if something appears to be free, there's a third rail is the one carrying the electricity for a
catch and you'll have to pay in some way. train.
 There's the rub: The meaning of this idiom is
'that's the problem'.

268
 Third time's the charm: This is used when the ('Throw pearls before pigs' and 'Cast pearls
third time one tries something, one achieves a before swine' are also used.)
successful outcome.  Throw someone a line: If someone throws you a
 Thorn in your side: A thorn in your side is line, they give you help when you are in serious
someone or something that causes trouble or difficulties.
makes life difficult for you.  Throw someone in at the deep end: If you are
 Those who live by the sword die by the sword: thrown in at the deep end, you have to deal with
This means that violent people will be treated serious issues the moment you start something
violently themselves. like a job, instead of having time to acquire
 Three sheets in the wind: (UK) Someone who is experience.
three sheets in the wind is very drunk. ('Three  Throw someone to the wolves: If someone is
sheets to the wind' is also used. 'Seven sheets' thrown to the wolves, they are abandoned and
is an alternative number used.) have to face trouble without any support.
 Three sheets to the wind: If someone is three  Throw someone under the bus: To throw
sheets to the wind, they are drunk. someone under the bus is to get the person in
 Thrilled to bits: If you are thrilled to bits, you trouble either by placing blame on that person
are extremely pleased or excited about or not standing up for him.
something.  Throw the baby out with the bath water: If you
 Through the ceiling: If prices go through the get rid of useful things when discarding
ceiling, they rise very quickly. inessential things, you throw the baby out with
 Through the floor: If prices go, or fall, through the bath water.
the floor, they fall very quickly.  Throw the book at someone: If you throw the
 Through thick and thin: If someone supports book at someone, you punish them as severely
you through thick and thin, they support you as possible.
during good times and bad.  Throw your hat in the ring: If someone throws
 Throw a curve: (USA) If you throw someone a their hat in the ring, they announce that they
curve, you surprise them with something they want to take part in a competition or contest.
find difficult to deal with. ('Throw' a curveball' 'Toss your hat in the ring' is an alternative.
is also used.)  Throw your toys out of the pram: To make an
 Throw a sickie: If you pretend to be ill to take a angry protest against a relatively minor
day off work or school, you throw a sickie. problem, in the process embarrassing the
 Throw caution to the wind: When people throw protester. The analogy is with a baby who
caution to the wind, they take a great risk. throws toys out of the pram in order to get their
 Throw down the gauntlet: Throw down the parent to pay attention to them. The implication
gauntlet is to issue a challenge to somebody. in the idiom is that the protester is acting like a
 Throw in the towel: If you throw in the towel, baby.
you admit that you are defeated or cannot do  Throw your weight around: If someone throws
something. their weight around, they use their authority or
 Throw pearls to the pigs: Someone that throws force of personality to get what they want in the
pearls to pigs is giving someone else face of opposition.
something they don't deserve or appreciate.  Thumb your nose at: If you thumb your nose at
something, you reject it or scorn it.

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269
 Thumbs down & thumbs up: If something gets  Time and again: If something happens time and
the thumbs up, it gets approval, while the again, it happens repeatedly. ('Time and time
thumbs down means disapproval. again' is also used.)
 Tickle your fancy: If something tickles your  Time and tide wait for no man: This is used as a
fancy, it appeals to you and you want to try it or way of suggestion that people should act
have it. without delay.
 Tickled pink: If you are very pleased about  Time does sail: This idioms means that time
something, you are tickled pink. passes by unnoticed.
 Tidy desk, tidy mind: A cluttered or  Time flies: This idiom means that time moves
disorganized environment will affect your quickly and often unnoticed.
clarity of thought. Organized surroundings and  Time is on my side: If time is on your side, you
affairs will allow for clearer thought have the luxury of not having to worry about
organization. how long something will take.
 Tie the knot: When people tie the knot, they get  Time of your life: If you're having the time of
married. your life, you are enjoying yourself very much
 Tied to your mother's apron strings: Describes indeed.
a child (often a boy) who is so used to his  Time-honoured practice: A time-honored
mother's care that he (or she) cannot do practice is a traditional way of doing something
anything on his (or her) own. that has become almost universally accepted
 Tight rein: If things or people are kept on a tight as the most appropriate or suitable way.
rein, they are given very little freedom or  Tip of the iceberg: The tip of the iceberg is the
controlled carefully. part of a problem that can be seen, with far
 Tight ship: If you run a tight ship, you control more serious problems lying underneath.
something strictly and don't allow people much  Tipping point: Small changes may have little
freedom of action. effect until they build up to critical mass, then
 Tighten your belt: If you have to tighten your the next small change may suddenly change
belt, you have to economize. everything. This is the tipping point.
 Till the cows come home: This idioms means  Tired and emotional: (UK) This idiom is a
'for a very long time'. ('Until the cows come euphemism used to mean 'drunk', especially
home' is also used.) when talking about politicians.
 Till the pips squeak: If someone will do  Tit for tat: If someone responds to an insult by
something till the pips squeak, they will do it to being rude back, it's tit for tat- repaying
the limit, even though it will make other people something negative the same way.
suffer.  To a fault: If something does something to a
 Till you're blue in the face: If you do something fault, they do it excessively. So someone who is
till you're blue in the face, you do it repeatedly generous to a fault is too generous.
without achieving the desired result until you're  To a man: If a group of people does, believes,
incredibly frustrated. thinks, etc, something to a man, then they all
 Tilt at windmills: A person who tilts at windmills do it.
tries to do things that will never work in  To a T: If something is done to a T, it is done
practice. perfectly.

270
 To all intents and purposes: This means in all  Too many cooks spoil the broth: This means
the most important ways. that where there are too many people trying to
 To be dog cheap: If something's dog cheap, it is do something, they make a mess of it.
very cheap indeed.  Too many irons in the fire: This means juggling
 To cut a long story short: This idiom is used as too many projects at once and something's
a way of shortening a story by getting to to the bound to fail; when a smith had too many irons
end or the point. in his fire, he couldn't effectively keep track of
 To err is human, to forgive divine: This idiom is all of them.
used when someone has done something  Toot you own horn: If someone toot their own
wrong, suggesting that they should be forgiven. horn, they like to boast about their
 To have the courage of your convictions: If you achievements.
have the courage of your convictions, you are  Top dog: The most important or influential
brave enough to do what you feel is right, person is the top dog.
despite any pressure for you to do something  Top notch: If something is top notch, it's
different. excellent, of the highest quality or standard.
 To little avail: If something is to little avail, it  Touch and go: If something is touch and go, the
means that, despite great efforts, something result is uncertain and could be good or bad.
ended in failure, but taking comfort from the  Touch base: If you touch base with someone,
knowledge that nothing else could have been you contact them.
done to avert or avoid the result.  Touch wood: This idiom is used to wish for
 To the end of time: To the end of time is an good luck. ('Knock on wood' is also used.)
extravagant way of saying 'forever'.  Touch-and-go: If something is touch-and-go, it
 Toe the line: If someone toes the line, they is very uncertain; if someone is ill and may well
follow and respect the rules and regulations. die, then it is touch-and-go.
 Tomorrow's another day: This means that  Tough as old boots: Something or someone
things might turn out better or that there might that is as tough as old boots is strong and
be another opportunity in the future. resilient.
 Tongue in cheek: If something is tongue in  Tough cookie: A tough cookie is a person who
cheek, it isn't serious or meant to be taken will do everything necessary to achieve what
seriously. they want.
 Too big for your boots: If someone is too big for  Tough luck: Tough luck is bad luck.
their boots, they are conceited and have an  Tough nut to crack: If something is a tough nut
exaggerated sense of their own importance. to crack, it is difficult to find the answer or
 Too big for your britches: If someone is too big solution. When used about a person, it means
for their britches, they are conceited and have that it is difficult to get them to do or allow
an exaggerated sense of their own importance. what you want. 'Hard nut to crack' is an
 Too many chiefs and not enough Indians: When alternative.
there are too many chiefs and not enough  Tough row to hoe: (USA) A tough row to hoe is
Indians, there are two many managers and not a situation that is difficult to handle. ('A hard
enough workers to work efficiently. row to hoe' is an alternative form.)
 Trade barbs: If people trade barbs, they insult
or attack each other.

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271
 Trafficked: If you are trafficked, you are stuck  Turn the crack: (Scot) If you turn the crack, you
in heavy traffic and get where you need to be. change the subject of a conversation.
 Train of thought: A train of thought is a  Turn the other cheek: If you turn the other
sequence of thoughts, especially when you are cheek, you are humble and do not retaliate or
talking to someone and you forget what you get outwardly angry when someone offends or
were going to say. hurts you, in fact, you give them the
 Tread the boards: When someone treads the opportunity to re-offend instead and compound
boards, they perform on stage in a theatre. their unpleasantness.
 Tread water: If someone is treading water, they  Turn the tables: If circumstances change
are making no progress. completely, giving an advantage to those who
 Tried and tested: If a method has been tried seemed to be losing, the tables are turned.
and tested, it is known to work or be effective  Turn up like a bad penny: If someone turns up
because it has been successfully used long like a bad penny, they go somewhere where
enough to be trusted. they are not wanted.
 True blue: A person who is true blue is loyal and  Turn up one's toes to the daisies: If someone
dependable, someone who can be relied on in has turned up their toes to the daisies, it means
all circumstances. that the person died.
 True colors: If someone shows their true colors,  Turn water into wine: If someone turns water
they show themselves as they really are. ('True into wine, they transform something bad into
colors' is the American spelling.) something excellent.
 Trump card: A trump card is a resource or  Turn your nose up: If someone turns their nose
strategy that is held back for use at a crucial up at something, they reject it or look odwn on
time when it will beat rivals or opponents. it because they don't think it is good enough for
 Truth will out: Truth will out means that, given them.
time, the facts of a case will emerge no matter  Turn-up for the books: A turn-up for the books
how people might try to conceal them. is an unexpected or surprising event.
 Tug at the heartstrings: f something tugs at the  Twenty-four seven: Twenty-four seven or 24/7
heartstrings, it makes you feel sad or means all the time, coming from 24 hours a
sympathetic towards it. day, 7 days a week.
 Turf war: If people or organizations are fighting  Twinkling of an eye: If something happens in
for control of something, it is a turf war. the twinkling of an eye, it happens very quickly.
 Turn a blind eye: When people turn a blind eye,  Twist someone's arm: If you twist someone's
they deliberately ignore something, especially if arm, you put pressure on them to try to make
people are doing something wrong. them do what you want them to do.
 Turn a deaf ear: If someone turns a deaf ear to  Twisting in the wind: If you are twisting in the
you, they don't listen to you. wind, you are without help or support - you are
 Turn a new leaf: If someone turns a new leaf, on your own.
they change their behavior and stop doing  Two cents: If you add or throw in your two
wrong or bad things. cents, you give your opinion on an issue.
 Turn the corner: To get over a bad run when a  Two heads are better than one: When two
loss making venture ceases to make losses, it people work together more things get
has "turned the corner". accomplished.

272
 Two left feet: A person with two left feet can't  Under fire: If someone is being attacked and
dance. criticised heavily, they are under fire.
 Two peas in a pod: If things or people are like  Under lock and key: If something is under lock
two peas in a pod, they look very similar or are and key, it is stored very securely.
always together.  Under someone's heel: If you are under
 Two sides of the same coin: If two things are someone's heel, they have complete control
two sides of the same coin, there is much over you.
difference between them.  Under the radar: If something slips under the
 Two-edged sword: If someone uses an radar, it isn't detected or noticed.
argument that could both help them and harm  Under the table: Bribes or illegal payments are
them, then they are using a two-edged sword; it often described as money under the table.
cuts both ways.  Under the weather: If you are feeling a bit ill,
 Two-faced: Someone who is two-faced will say sad or lack energy, you are under the weather.
one thing to your face and another when you're  Under the wire: (USA) If a person does
not there. something under the wire, they do it at the last
 Ugly as a stick: (USA) If someone is as ugly as possible moment.
a stick, they are very ugly indeed.  Under your breath: If you say something under
 Ugly duckling: An ugly duckling is a child who your breath, you whisper or say it very quietly.
shows little promise, but who develops later  Under your nose: If something happens right in
into a real talent or beauty. front of you, especially if it is surprising or
 Uncharted waters: If you're in uncharted audacious, it happens under your nose.
waters, you are in a situation that is unfamiliar  Under your skin: If someone gets under your
to you, that you have no experience of and skin, they really annoy you.
don't know what might happen. (Unchartered  Under your thumb: Someone who is
waters is an incorrect form that is a common manipulated or controlled by another person is
mistake.) under his or her thumb.
 Uncle Sam: (USA) Uncle Sam is the government  Uneasy lies the head that wears the crown: This
of the USA. means that people with serious responsibilities
 Under a cloud: If someone is suspected of have a heavy burden.
having done something wrong, they are under a  Unwavering loyalty: Unwavering loyalty does
cloud. not question or doubt the person or issue and
 Under a flag of convenience: If a ship sails supports them completely.
under a flag of convenience, it is registered in a  Up a river without a paddle: If you up a river
country where taxes, etc, are lower than in the without a paddle, you are in an unfortunate
country it comes from, so if someone does situation, unprepared and with none of the
something under a flag of convenience, they resources to remedy the matter.
attempt to avoid regulations and taxes by a  Up for grabs: If something is up for grabs, it is
similar means. available and whoever is first or is successful
 Under false colors: If someone does something will get it.
under false colors/colors, they pretend to be  Up in the air: If a matter is up in the air, no
something they are not in order to deceive decision has been made and there is
people so that they can succeed. uncertainty about it.

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273
 Up sticks: (UK) If you up sticks, you leave  Up with the lark: If you get up very early, you're
somewhere, usually permanently and without up with the lark.
warning- he upped sticks and went to work  Upper crust: The upper crust is the upper
abroad. classes and the establishment.
 Up the ante: If you up the ante, you increase the  Upper hand: If you have the upper hand, you
importance or value of something, especially have the advantage.
where there's an element of risk as the term  Upset the apple cart: If you upset the apple
comes from gambling, where it means to cart, you cause trouble and upset people.
increase the stake (the amount of money bet).  U-turn: If a government changes its position
 Up the creek: If someone or something is up radically on an issue, especially when they have
the creek, they are in real trouble. 'Up the creek promised not to do so, this is a U-turn.
without a paddle' is an alternative, and 'up shit  Vale of tears: This vale of tears is the world and
creek (without a paddle)' is a ruder form. the suffering that life brings.
 Up the duff: (UK) If a woman is up the duff,  Velvet glove: This idiom is used to describe a
she's pregnant. person who appears gentle, but is determined
 Up the spout: (UK) If something has gone up and inflexible underneath. ('Iron fist in a velvet
the spout, it has gone wrong or been ruined. glove' is the full form.)
 Up the stick: (UK) If a woman is up the stick,  Vent your spleen: If someone vents their
she's pregnant. spleen, they release all their anger about
 Up the wall: If someone goes up the wall, they something.
get very angry.  Vicar of Bray: (UK) A person who changes their
 Up the wooden hill: When you go up the beliefs and principles to stay popular with
wooden hill, you go up the stairs to bed. people above them is a Vicar of Bray
 Up to scratch: If something doesn't come up to  Vicious circle: A vicious circle is a sequence of
scratch, it doesn't meet the standard required events that make each other worse- someone
or expected. drinks because they are unhappy at work, and
 Up to snuff: If something isn't up to snuff, it then loses their job... Vicious cycle is also used.
doesn't meet the standard expected.  Virgin territory: If something is virgin territory, it
 Up to speed: If you bring someone up to speed, hasn't been explored before.
you update them on something.  Volte-face: If you do a volte-face on something,
 Up to the eyes: You are up to your eyes in you make a sudden and complete change in
something, you are deeply involved or to have your stance or position over an issue.
too much of something like work. ('Up the  Wag the dog: To 'wag the dog' means to
neck', 'up to the eyeballs' and 'up to the ears' purposely divert attention from what would
are also used.) otherwise be of greater importance, to
 Up to the neck: If someone's in something up to something else of lesser significance. By doing
the neck, they are very involved in it, especially so, the lesser-significant event is catapulted
when it's something wrong. into the limelight, drowning proper attention to
 Up to your neck: If someone is very involved in what was originally the more important issue.
something, they are up to their neck in it, The expression comes from the saying that 'a
especially if it is something bad or immoral. dog is smarter than its tail', but if the tail were
smarter, then the tail would 'wag the dog'. The

274
expression 'wag the dog' was elaborately used  Wallflower: A woman politician given an
as theme of the movie. 'Wag the Dog', a 1997 unimportant government position so that the
film starring Robert de Niro and Dustin government can pretend it takes women
Hoffman, produced and directed by Barry seriously is a wallflower.
Levinson.  War chest: A war chest is a fund that can be
 Waiting in the wings: If someone is waiting in used to finance a campaign like and election or
the wings, or in the wings, they are in the for use in emergencies or unexpected times of
background, but nearby, ready to act on short difficulty.
notice.  War of words: A war of words is a bitter
 Wake-up call: A wake-up call is a warning of a argument between people or organizations, etc.
threat or a challenge, especially when it means  Warm and fuzzy: Meaning the feeling evoked as
that people will have to change their behavior though you were enclosed in a warm and fuzzy
to meet it. blanket.
 Walk a fine line: If you have to walk a fine line,  Warm the cockles of your heart: If something
you have to be very careful not to annoy or warms the cockles of your heart, it makes you
anger people or groups that are competing. feel happy.
('Walk a thin line' is an alternative.)  Warpath: If someone is on the warpath, they are
 Walk a mile in my shoes: This idiom means that very angry about something and will do
you should try to understand someone before anything to get things sorted the way they
criticizing them. want.
 Walk a tightrope: If you walk a tightrope, you  Warts and all: If you like someone warts and all,
have to be very careful not to annoy or anger you like them with all their faults.
people who could become enemies.  Wash your hands of something: If you wash
 Walk in the park: An undertaking that is easy is your hands of something, you disassociate
a walk in the park. The opposite is also true - yourself and accept no responsibility for what
"no walk in the park". will happen.
 Walk on eggshells: If you have to walk on  Waste not, want not: If you don't waste things,
eggshells when with someone, you have to be you are less likely to end up lacking.
very careful because they get angry or offended  Waste of skin: If a person is referred to as a
very easily.('Walk on eggs' is also used.) 'waste of skin', it means he is not worth very
 Walk the green mile: Someone or something much.
that is walking the green mile is heading  Watch grass grow: If something is like
towards the inevitable. watching grass grow, it is really boring.
 Walk the plank: If someone walks the plank,  Watch your six: (USA) This idiom means that
they are going toward their own destruction or you should look behind you for dangers coming
downfall that you can't see.
 Walking on air: If you are walking on air, you are  Watching paint dry: If something is like
so happy that you feel as if you could float. watching paint dry, it is really boring.
 Walking on broken glass: When a person is  Water off a duck's back: If criticism or
punished for something. e.g. 'She had me something similar is like water off a duck's
walking on broken glass.' back to somebody, they aren't affected by it in
the slightest.

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
275
 Water over the dam: (USA) If something has  Wet your whistle: If you are thirsty and have an
happened and cannot be changed, it is water alcoholic drink, you wet your whistle. "Whet
over the dam. your whistle" is also used.
 Water under the bridge: If something belongs to  What can you expect from a hog but a grunt? :
the past and isn't important or troubling any (USA) This means that you can't expect people
more, it is water under the bridge. to behave in a way that is not in their
 Watering hole: (UK) A watering hole is a pub. character- a 'hog' is a 'pig', so an unrefined
 Watery grave: If someone has gone to a watery person can't be expected to behave in a refined
grave, they have drowned. way.
 Weak at the knees: If people go weak at the  What does that have to do with the price of tea
knees, they have a powerful emotional reaction in China? : This idiom is often used when
to something and feel that they might fall over. someone says something irrelevant to the topic
 Wear sackcloth and ashes: If someone displays being discussed.
their grief or contrition publicly, they wear  What goes around comes around: This saying
sackcloth and ashes. means that of people do bad things to other
 Wear your heart on your sleeve: Someone who people, bad things will happen to them.
wears their heart on their sleeve shows their  What goes around, comes around: The good or
emotions and feelings publicly. bad you do to others is requited.
 Weather a storm: If you weather a storm, you  What will be will be: The expression what will
get through a crisis or hard times. be will be is used to describe the notion that
 Wedge politics: (USA) In wedge politics, one fate will decide the outcome of a course of
party uses an issue that they hope will divide events, even if action is taken to try to alter it.
members of a different party to create conflict  Whatever floats your boat: When people say
and weaken it. this, they mean that you should do whatever
 Weight off your shoulders: If something is a makes you happy.
weight off your shoulders, you have relieved  What's cooking? : When you ask what's cooking
yourself of a burden, normally a something that it means you want to know what's happening.
has been troubling you or worrying you.  What's good for the goose is good for the
 Well-heeled: Someone who is well-heeled is gander: This idiom means that the sexes should
rich. be treated the same way and not be subjected
 Well-oiled machine: Something that functions to different standards.
very well is a well-oiled machine.  What's up? : This can be used to ask 'What's
 Well-oiled: If someone is well-oiled, they have wrong?' or 'How are you?'.
drunk a lot.  What's your poison? : This is a way of asking
 Were you born in a barn? : If someone asks you someone what they would like to drink,
this, it means that you forgot to close the door especially alcohol.
when you came in.  What's your take on that? : This idiom is way of
 Wet behind the ears: Someone who is wet asking someone for their opinion and ideas.
behind the ears is either very young or  Wheels fall off: When the wheels fall off
inexperienced. something, it goes wrong or fails. ('Wheels
 Wet blanket: A wet blanket is someone who come off' is an alternative.)
tries to spoil other people's fun.

276
 When hell freezes over: An impossible or very away and the kids are the mice partying and
unlikely situation or event enjoying their freedom.
 When in Rome, do as the Romans: This idiom  Whistle for it: If someone says that you can
means that when you are visiting a different whistle for something, they are determined to
place or culture, you should try to follow their ensure that you don't get it.
customs and practices.  Whistle-stop tour: A whistle-stop tour is when
 When it rains, it pours: This idiom means that someone visits a number of places quickly, not
when things go wrong, a lot of things go wrong stopping for long.
at the same time.  Whistling Dixie: (USA) If someone is whistling
 When pigs fly: Meaning you will not get Dixie, they talk about things in a more positive
something when you want it or someone way than the reality.
doesn't want something for you. say you are  Whistling in the dark: If someone is whistling in
selling an item and some one doesn't want it. the dark, they believe in a positive result, even
they might say 'I'll buy it when pigs fly'. it just though everybody else is sure it will not
means you will never get someone to say yes to happen.
you when you ask for something.  Whistling past the graveyard: (USA) If someone
 Where the rubber meets the road: (USA) Where is whistling past the graveyard, they are trying
the rubber meets the road is the most to remain cheerful in difficult circumstances.
important point for something, the moment of ('Whistling past the cemetery' is also used.)
truth. An athlete can train all day, but the race  White as a sheet: A bad shock can make
is where the rubber meets the road and they'll somebody go as white as a sheet.
know how good they really are.  White as snow: If something or someone is as
white as snow, they are perfect or completely
 Where there's a will, there's a way: This idiom uncorrupted and honest.
means that if people really want to do  White elephant: A white elephant is an
something, they will manage to find a way of expensive burden; something that costs far too
doing it. much money to run, like the Millennium Dome
 Where there's smoke, there's fire: When there is in the UK.
an indication or sign of something bad, usually  White feather: If someone shows a white
the indication is correct. feather, they are cowards.
 Whet your appetite: If something whets your  White lie: If you tell a white lie, you lie in order
appetite, it interests you and makes you want not to hurt someone's feelings.
more of it.  White-bread: If something is white-bread, it is
 Which came first the chicken or the egg? : This very ordinary, safe and boring.
idiomatic expression is used when it is not  Who wears the pants? : (USA) The person who
clear who or what caused something. wears the pants in a relationship is the
 While the cat's away, the mouse will play: dominant person who controls things.
People whose behavior is strictly controlled go  Who wears the trousers? : (UK) The person who
over the top when the authority is not around, wears the trousers in a relationship is the
which is why most teenagers have parties when dominant person who controls things.
their parents have gone on holiday. The parents
are the scary authority figures, but the cat's

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
277
 Who will ring the bell? : 'Who will ring the bell?' rather than actually dealing with it, it is window
asks who will assume the responsibility to help dressing.
us out of a difficult situation.  Window to the soul: Eyes are sometimes
 Whole ball of wax: (USA) The whole ball of wax referred to as the window to the soul.
is everything.  Wing and a prayer: If you do something on a
 Whole kit and caboodle: The whole kit and wing and a prayer, you try to do something and
caboodle means 'everything' required or hope you'll succeed even though you have very
involved in something. ('Kaboodle' is an little chance of success.
alternative spelling.)  Winner takes all: If everything goes to the
 Whole new ball game: If something's a whole winner, as in an election, the winner takes all.
new ball game, it is completely new or different.  Wipe the floor with: (UK) If you wipe the floor
 Whole nine yards: The whole nine yards means with someone, you destroy the arguments or
everything that is necessary or required for defeat them easily.
something.  Wipe the smile of someone's face: If you wipe
 Whole shebang: The whole shebang includes the smile of someone's face, you do something
every aspect of something. to make someone feel less pleased with
 Why buy the cow when you can get the milk for themselves.
free: This idiom is usually used to refer to men  With a heavy hand: If someone does something
who don't want to get married, when they can with a heavy hand, they do it in a strict way,
get all the benefits of marriage without getting exerting a lot of control.
married.  With child: (UK) If a woman's with child, she's
 Why keep a dog and bark yourself? : There's no pregnant.
need to do something yourself when you have  With flying colours (colors) : If you pass
somebody to do it for you, usually trivial something with flying colours (colors), you
matters. pass easily, with a very high mark or grade.
 Wide berth: If you give someone a wide berth,  Wither on the vine: If something withers on the
you keep yourself well away from them vine, it fails to get the intended result, doesn't
because they are dangerous. come to fruition.
 Wide of the mark: If something is wide of the  Within a whisker: If you come within a whisker
mark, it is inaccurate or incorrect. of doing something, you very nearly manage to
 Wild goose chase: A wild goose chase is a do it but don’t succeed.
waste of time- time spent trying to do  Without a hitch: If something happens without
something unsuccessfully. a hitch, nothing at all goes wrong.
 Will never fly: If an idea or project, etc, will  Woe betide you: This is used to wish that bad
never fly, it has no chance of succeeding. things will happen to someone, usually because
 Will-o'-the-wisp: Something that deceives by of their bad behavior.
its appearance is a will-o’-the-wisp; it looks  Woe is me: This means that you are sad or in a
good, but turns out to be a disappointment. difficult situation. It's archaic, but still used.
 Win by a nose: If somebody wins by a nose,  Wolf in sheep's clothing: A wolf in sheep's
they only just beat the others. clothing is something dangerous that looks
 Window dressing: If something is done to quite safe and innocent.
pretend to be dealing with an issue or problem,

278
 Wood for the trees: (UK) If someone can't see  Worth a shot: If something is worth a shot, it is
the wood for the trees, they get so caught up in worth trying as there is some chance of
small details that they fail to understand the success.
bigger picture.  Worth your salt: Someone who is worth their
 Word of mouth: If something becomes known salt deserves respect.
by word of mouth, it is because people are  Wouldn't touch it with a bargepole: (UK) If you
talking about it, not through publicity, etc. wouldn't touch something with a bargepole,
 Word of the law: The word of the law means you would not consider being involved under
that the law is interpreted in an absolutely any circumstances. (In American English,
literal way which goes against the ideas that people say they wouldn't touch it with a ten-
the lawmakers had wished to implement. foot pole)
 Words fail me: If words fail you, you can't find  Wouldn't touch it with a ten-foot pole: (USA) If
the words to express what you are trying to say. you wouldn't touch something with a ten-foot
 Work like a dog: If you work like a dog, you pole, you would not consider being involved
work very hard. under any circumstances. (In British English,
 Work your fingers to the bone: If you work your people say they wouldn't touch it with a
fingers to the bone, you work extremely hard on bargepole)
something.  Wrap yourself in the flag: If someone wraps
 Work your socks off: If you work your socks off, themselves in the flag, they pretend to be doing
you work very hard. something for patriotic reasons or out of
 Work your tail off: If you work your tail off, you loyalty, but their real motives are selfish.
work extremely hard. ('Drape yourself in the flag' is an alternative
 World at your feet: If everything is going well form of this idiom)
and the future looks full of opportunity, you  Wrench in the works: (USA) If someone puts or
have the world at your feet. throws a wrench, or monkey wrench, in the
 World is your oyster: When the world is your works, they ruin a plan. In British English,
oyster, you are getting everything you want 'spanner' is used instead of 'wrench'.
from life.  Writ large: If something is writ large, it is
 Worm information: If you worm information out emphasized or highlighted.
of somebody, you persuade them to tell you  Writing on the wall: If the writing's on the wall
something they wanted to keep from you. for something, it is doomed to fail.
 Worm's eye view: A worm's eye view of  Written all over your face: If someone has done
something is the view from below, either something wrong or secret, but cannot hide it in
physically or socially. their expression, it is written all over their face.
 Worse for wear: If something's worse for wear,  Wrong end of the stick: If someone has got the
it has been used for a long time and, wrong end of the stick, they have
consequently, isn't in very good condition. A misunderstood what someone has said to
person who's worse for wear is drunk or high on them.
drugs and looking rough.  Wrong foot: If you start something on the
 Worse things happen at sea: This idiomatic wrong foot, you start badly.
expression is used as a way of telling someone
not to worry so much about their problems.

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
279
 X factor: The dangers for people in the military something to someone, like good advice, but
that civilians do not face, for which they receive you cannot make them take it.
payment, are known as the X factor.  You can say that again: If you want to agree
 X marks the spot: This is used to say where strongly with what someone has said, you can
something is located or hidden. say 'You can say that again' as a way of doing
 X-rated: If something is x-rated, it is not so.
suitable for children.  You can't have cake and the topping, too: (USA)
 Yah boo sucks: Yah boo & yah boo sucks can This idiom means that you can't have
be used to show that you have no sympathy everything the way you want it, especially if
with someone. your desires are contradictory.
 Yank my chain: If some one says this to  You can't have your cake and eat it: This idiom
another person (i.e. stop yanking my chain) it means that you can't have things both ways.
means for the other person to leave the person For example, you can't have very low taxes and
who said it alone and to stop bothering them. a high standard of state care.
 Yellow press: The yellow press is a term for the  You can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear:
popular and sensationalist newspapers. If something isn't very good to start with, you
 Yellow streak: If someone has a yellow streak, can't do much to improve it.
they are cowardly about something.  You can't make an omelette without breaking
 Yellow-bellied: A yellow-bellied person is a eggs: This idiom means that in order to achieve
coward. something or make progress, there are often
 Yen: If you have a yen to do something, you losers in the process.
have a desire to do it.  You can't take it with you: Enjoy life, enjoy what
 Yes-man: Someone who always agrees with you have and don't worry about not having a
people in authority is a yes-man. lot, especially money...because once you're
 Yesterday's man or Yesterday's woman: dead, 'you can't take it with you.' For some, it
Someone, especially a politician or celebrity, means to use up all you have before you die
whose career is over or on the decline is because it's no use to you afterwards.
yesterday's man or woman.  You can't unring a bell: This means that once
 You are what you eat: This is used to something has been done, you have to live with
emphasise the importance of a good diet as a the consequences as it can't be undone.
key to good health.  You could have knocked me down with a
 You can catch more flies with honey than with feather: This idiom is used to mean that the
vinegar: This means that it is easier to person was very shocked or surprised.
persuade people if you use polite arguments  You do not get a dog and bark yourself: (UK) If
and flattery than if you are confrontational. there is someone in a lower position who can or
 You can choose your friends, but you can't should do a task, then you shouldn't do it.
choose your family: Some things you can  You get what you pay for: Something that is
choose, but others you cannot, so you have to very low in price is not usually of very good
try to make the best of what you have where quality.
you have no choice.  You scratch my back and I'll scratch yours:
 You can lead a horse to water, but you can't This idiom means that if you do something for
make it drink: This idiom means you can offer me, I'll return the favour.

280
 You what? : This is a very colloquial way of  You're toast: If someone tells you that you are
expressing surprise or disbelief at something toast, you are in a lot of trouble.
you have heard. It can also be used to ask  You've got rocks in your head: (USA) someone
someone to say something again. who has acted with a lack of intelligence has
 Young blood: Young people with new ideas and rocks in their head.
fresh approaches are young blood.  You've made your bed- you'll have to lie in it:
 Young Turk: A Young Turk is a young person This means that someone will have to live with
who is rebellious and difficult to control in a the consequences of their own actions.
company, team or organization.  Zero hour : The time when something important
 Your belly button is bigger than your stomach: is to begin is zero hour.
If your belly button is bigger than your  Zero tolerance: If the police have a zero
stomach, you take on more responsibilities tolerance policy, they will not overlook any
than you can handle. crime, no matter how small or trivial.
 Your call: If something is your call, it is up to  Zigged before you zagged: If you did things in
you to make a decision on the matter. the wrong order, you zigged before you zagged.
 Your name is mud: If someone's name is mud,  Zip it: This is used to tell someone to be quiet.
then they have a bad reputation.  Zip your lip: If someone tells you to zip your lip,
 Your sins will find you out: This idiom means they want to to shut up or keep quiet about
that things you do wrong will become known. something. ('Zip it' is also used.)

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
281
IdiomsIdioms
and Phrases Exercise
Exercise
07
1. To make clean breast of
(A) To gain prominence 8. To be above board
(B) To praise oneself (A) To have a good height
(C) To confess without of reserve (B) To be honest in any business deal
(D) To destroy before it blooms (C) They have no debts
(D) To try to be beautiful
2. To keeps one's temper
(A) To become hungry 9. To put one's hand to plough
(B) To be in good mood (A) To take up agricultural farming
(C) To preserve ones energy (B) To take a difficult task
(D) To be aloof from (C) To get entangled into unnecessary things
(D) Take interest in technical work
3. To catch a tartar
(A) To trap wanted criminal with great difficulty 10. To pick holes
(B) To catch a dangerous person (A) To find some reason to quarrel
(C) To meet with disaster (B) To destroy something
(D) To deal with a person who is more thaone's (C) To criticise someone
match (D) To cut some part of an item
4. To drive home 11. To leave someone in the lurch

(A) To find one's roots (A) To come to compromise with someone
(B) To return to place of rest (B) Constant source of annoyance to someone
(C) Back to original position (C) To put someone at ease
(D) To emphasise (D) To desert someone in his difficulties
5. To have an axe to grind 12. To play second fiddle

(A) A private end to serve (A) To be happy, cheerful and healthy
(B) To fail to arouse interest (B) To reduce importance of one's senior
(C) To have no result (C) To support the role and view of another
(D) To work for both sides person
(D) To do back seat driving
6. To cry wolf
(A) To listen eagerly 13. To beg the question
(B) To give false alarm (A) To refer to
(C) To turn pale (B) To take for granted
(D) To keep off starvation (C) To raise objections
(D) To be discussed
7. To end in smoke
(A) To make completely understand 14. A black sheep
(B) To ruin oneself (A) An unlucky person
(C) To excite great applause (B) A lucky person
(D) To overcome someone (C) An ugly person
(D) None of these

282
15. A man of straw 23. At one's beck and call

(A) A man of no substance (A) To attend a call
(B) A very active person (B) To be helped by someone
(C) A worthy fellow (C) To be useful to someone
(D) An unreasonable person (D) To be dominated by someone
16. To smell a rat 24. To explore every avenue

(A) To see signs of plague epidemic (A) To search all streets
(B) To get bad small of a bad dead rat (B) To scout the wilderness
(C) To suspect foul dealings (C) To find adventure
(D) To be in a bad mood (D) To try every opportunity
17. To hit the nail right on the head 25. A red letter day
(A) To Do the right thing (A) A dangerous day in one’s life
(B) To Destroy one's reputation (B) A sorrowful day in one’s life
(C) To announce one's fixed views (C) An important or joyful occasion in One’s life
(D) To teach someone a lesson (D) Both a dangerous and sorrowful Day in one’s
life
18. To set one's face against
(A) To oppose with determination 26. to have something up one's sleeve
(B) To judge by appearence (A) To hide something in the sleeve
(C) To get out of difficulty (B) To play a magician trick
(D) To look at one steadily (C) To have a secret plan
(D) To play hide and seek
19. Build cashes in the air
(A) Waste time 27. On the spur of the moment
(B) Daydream (A) To act at once
(C) Build houses (B) To ride a horse in a race
(D) Work hard (C) To act deliberately
(D) To act at the appointed time
20. All at sea
(A) Very proud 28. To bring to light
(B) Overjoyed (A) To reveal
(C) Puzzled (B) To conceal
(D) Excited (C) To provide luminescence
(D) To appeal
21. To hit below the belt
(A) To punish 29. To hit the jackpot
(B) To tie with a belt (A) To gamble
(C) To hit with a belt (B) To get an unexpected victory
(D) To attack unfairly (C) To be wealthy
(D) To make money quickly
22. Pot-luck dinner
(A) Dinner where everybody brings something to 30. To bum the candle at both ends
eat (A) To spend cautiously
(B) Dinner where everybody pays for his food (B) To be stingy
(C) Dinner where only soup is served (C) To be extravagant
(D) Dinner where people eat and play game is at (D) To survive difficulty
the same time

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
283
31. status quo 39. to fight tooth and nail

(A) Unchanged position (A) To fight a losing battle
(B) Excellent place (B) To fight heroically
(C) Unbreakable statue (C) To fight cowardly
(D) Long queue (D) To make every possible effort
32. By fair means or foul 40. to call a spade a spade

(A) Without using common sense (A) To be frank (B) To be sly
(B) Without difficulty (C) To be rude (D) To be diplomatic
(C) In Anyway honest or dishonest
(D) Having been instigated 41. a white elephant
(A) An extinct species of elephant found in Burma
33. To look down one's nose (B) A report by the government to give
(A) To show anger Information
(B) To retaliate (C) Huge and colossal waste of human energy
(C) To Insult in the presence of others (D) Costly and troublesome possession useless
(D) To regard with contempt to its owner
34. To shed crocodile tears 42. To miss the bus

(A) To weep profusely (A) To miss, the bus that one regularly takes
(B) To pretend grief (B) To miss an opportunity
(C) To grieve seriously (C) To have something to fall back upon
(D) To mock something (D) To find fault with others
35 By putting two and two together 43. As a businessman, my father always Maintained
(A) To mix several things that his transactions Constituted an open book.
(B) To make an arithmetical calculation (A) An account book always open
(C) To keep people in pairs (B) A book of open confessions
(D) To deduce from given facts (C) An opening for new ventures
(D) Straight forward and honest Dealings
36. To go scot-free
(A) To walk like a native of Scotland 44. The project advanced by leaps and Bounds.
(B) To get something free (A) Rapidly (B) Slowly
(C) To escape without punishment (C) Sharply (D) Simply
(D) To save tax
45. She is too fond of her own voice.
37. At the eleventh hour (A) Loves singing (B) Very selfish
(A) At eleven o'clock (C) Does not listen properly to anyone else
(B) At the wrong time (D) Very talkative
(C) At the last possible moment
(D) At the initial moment itself 46. Indian police is, on the whole, high handed in
dealing with citizens.
38. birds of the same feather (A) Kind (B) Overbearing
(A) Persons of same caste (C) Prompt (D) Adept
(B) Persons of same colour
(C) Birds with same type of feather 47. I take exception to your statement that i am bad
(D) Persons of same character tempered.
(A) Do not agree (B) Feel unhappy
(C) Object (D) Feel angry

284
48. The officer called for an Explanation from the 57. She never stops talking about herself and is full
cashier for the shortage of cash. of herself.
(A) Asked (B) Begged (A) is very fat (B) is too fat
(C) Served a notice (D) Demanded (C) is very full (D) is very conceited
49. sought after 58. You will not slip over because the floor is as dry
(A) Highly paid (B) Pursued by as a bone.
(C) In great demand (D) With great talent (A) completely hard (B) extremely flat
(C) totally dry (D) completely cracked
50. A little gush of gratitude
(A) Gradual recovery (B) Friendly feeling 59. He kept saying he didn't do it but in the end he
(C) Excessive labour said he had done it.
(D) Excessive enthusiasm (A) at the end (B) finally
(C) at last (D) by the end
51. I cannot understand why she did that, it really
doesn't add up. 60. I know you are very sorry that you broke the pot
(A) doesn't calculate (B) isn't mathematics but accidents will happen.
(C) doesn't make sense (A) things will take place
(D) makes the wrong addition (B) things do occur
(C) things take place often
52. All the students got high marks in the test but (D) things often go wrong
Mary stood out.
(A) got a lot of marks 61. He's up to his ears in work and cannot possibly
(B) got higher marks than someone see you now.
(C) got very good marks (A) fully occupied with
(D) got the most marks of all (B) very interested in
(C) not involved with
53. He has sold his house and has no job and so now (D) concerned with
he has next to nothing.
(A) he is unemployed 62. If you give me a hand, then I shall be able to
(B) he has almost no money finish more quickly.
(C) he has a few things (A) take my hand (B) help me
(D) he has nothing at all (C) take my fingers (D) pick me up
54. As a newspaper reporter she always wanted to 63. I prefer to talk to people face to face rather than
get information at first hand. to talk on the phone.
(A) quickly (B) slowly (A) in person (B) facing them
(C) easily (D) directly (C) looking at them (D) seeing them
55. I think we can safely say now that we have got 64. The manager dismissed the new proposal out of
our money back, we are home and dry. hand and said that it was not at all practical.
(A) have not got wet (B) have got no water (A) quickly (B) utterly
(C) have been successful (D) have got home dry (C) directly (D) simply
56. He is the man who owns all the land and is the 65. As she is new to the job I would ask you to keep
big fish around here. an eye on her for the time being.
(A) the fat man (B) the huge man (A) look at (B) consider
(C) the important man (D) the enormous man (C) check (D) observe

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
285
66. The opposition in parliament accused the 73. No-one ever mentions him because he's
government of playing games and refusing to regarded as the black sheep of the family.
accept the seriousness of the situation. (A) the one with a sense of humour
(A) being light hearted (B) the one who is always late
(B) being heavy hearted (C) the one with a bad reputation
(C) being down hearted (D) the one who never washes
(D) being faint hearted
74. I shouldn't go outside without a raincoat because
67. He accused her of talking through her hat and it's raining cats and dogs.
refused to accept a word of what she said. (A) it's just started to rain
(A) talking sense (B) talking straight (B) it's raining very heavily
(C) talking nonsense (D) talking tough (C) it's going to rain
(D) it's raining a little
68. The police advised them to go down to the cellar
in order to be out of harm's way. 75. You shouldn't sign there I think he's about to
(A) away from the noise (B) inside the area make a monkey out of you.
(C) into safety (D) away from danger (A) to make a fool of you
(B) to make you feel stupid
69. I'd give my right arm if I could get tickets for that (C) to make you lose money
concert. (D) to make you lose interest
(A) do absolutely anything
(B) do something stupid 76. It's a lovely house and very big but nobody uses
(C) do something dangerous it so it's a bit of a white elephant.
(D) do what you want (A) something very beautiful and useful
(B) something very cheap and useless
70. You can always rely on Fred to put his foot in it (C) something very big and useful
and come out with a remark like that. (D) something very expensive and useless
(A) tread on somebody
(B) say something embarrassing 77. When the business folded, he took the lion's
(C) fall over share of the assets.
(D) put on the wrong shoe (A) the easiest part (B) the smallest part
(C) the biggest part (D) the only part
71. There are times when you must decide and take
the bull by the horns. 78. Without my glasses I can't see where I'm going in
(A) make the right decision fact I'm as blind as a bat.
(B) make a bold decision (A) very short sighted (B) very long sighted
(C) make the wrong decision (C) very far sighted (D) very clear sighted
(D) make a final decision
79. I get very irritated sometimes because they're
72. He leads a dog's life really because his freedom always up with the lark and I like to lie in.
is always curtailed. (A) up very easily (B) up very early
(A) never knows what to do (C) up very often (D) up very noisily
(B) never goes out
(C) sometimes does something wrong 80. I would advise you to do that as well and in that
(D) never does what he wants way you'll kill two birds with one stone.
(A) get things done twice
(B) get two things done at the same time
(C) get something done two times
(D) get two things done twice

286
Solution
Ans.58(C) totally dry
1.(D) 2.(B) 3.(B) 4.(D)
Ans.59(B) finally
5.(A) 6.(B) 7.(B) 8.(B)
Ans.60(B) things do occur
9.(B) 10.(C) 11.(D) 12.(C)
Ans.61(A) fully occupied with
13.(B) 14.(D) 15.(A) 16.(C)
Ans.62(B) help me
17.(A) 18.(A) 19.(B) 20.(C)
Ans.63(A) in person
21.(D) 22.(A) 23.(D) 24.(D)
Ans.64(B) utterly
25.(C) 26.(C) 27.(A) 28.(A)
Ans.65(D) observe
29.(D) 30.(C) 31.(A) 32.(C)
Ans.66(A) being light hearted
33.(D) 34.(B) 35.(D) 36.(C)
Ans.67(C) talking nonsense
37.(C) 38.(D) 39.(D) 40.(A)
Ans.68(D) away from danger
41.(D) 42.(B) 43.(D) 44.(A)
Ans.69(A) do absolutely anything
45.(C) 46.(B) 47.(C) 48.(A)
Ans.70(C) say something embarrassing
49.(C) 50.(B)
Ans.71(C) make a bold decision
Ans.72(D) never does what he wants
Ans.51(C) doesn't make sense
Ans.73(B) the one with a bad reputation
Ans.52(D) got the most marks of all
Ans.74(C) it's raining very heavily
Ans.53(B) he has almost no money
Ans.75(A) to make a fool of you
Ans.54(D) directly
Ans.76(D) something very expensive and useless
Ans.55(C) have been successful
Ans.77(C) the biggest part
Ans.56(C) the important man
Ans.78(A) very short sighted
Ans.57(D) is very conceited
Ans.79(B) up very early
Ans.80(C) get two things done at the same time

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
287
Phrasal
Phrasal verbVerb 08
1. ask somebody out Usage: The woman broke down when the police
Meaning: invite on a date told her that her son had died.
Usage: Brian asked Judy out to dinner and a
movie. 10. break something down
Meaning: divide into smaller parts
2. ask around Usage: Our teacher broke the final project down
Meaning: ask many people the same question into three separate parts.
Usage: I asked around but nobody has seen my
wallet. 11. break in
Meaning: force entry to a building
3. add up to something Usage: Somebody broke in last night and stole
Meaning: equal our stereo.
Usage: Your purchases add up to $205.32.
12. break into something
4. back something up Meaning: enter forcibly
Meaning: reverse Usage: The firemen had to break into the room to
Usage: You'll have to back up your car so that I rescue the children.
can get out.
13. break something in
5. back somebody up Meaning: wear something a few times so that
Meaning: support it doesn't look/feel new
Usage: My wife backed me up over my decision Usage: I need to break these shoes in before we
to quit my job. run next week.
6. blow up 14. break in
Meaning: explode Meaning: interrupt
Usage: The racing car blew up after it crashed Usage: The TV station broke in to report the news
into the fence. of the president's death.
7. blow something up 15. break up
Meaning: add air Meaning: end a relationship
Usage: We have to blow 50 balloons up for the Usage: My boyfriend and I broke up before I
party. moved to America.
8. break down 16. break up
Meaning: stop functioning (vehicle, machine) Meaning: start laughing (informal)
Usage: Our car broke down at the side of the Usage: The kids just broke up as soon as the
highway in the snowstorm. clown started talking.
9. break down 17. break out
Meaning: get upset Meaning: escape

288
Usage: The prisoners broke out of jail when the 28. call somebody up
guards weren't looking. Meaning: phone
18. break out in something Usage: Give me your phone number and I will call
Meaning: develop a skin condition I you up when we are in town.
Usage: broke out in a rash after our camping trip.
29. calm down
19. bring somebody down Meaning: relax after being angry
Meaning: make unhappy Usage: You are still mad. You need to calm down
Usage: This sad music is bringing me down. before you drive the car.
20. bring some 30. not care for somebody/ something

Meaning: body up raise a child Meaning: not like (formal)
Usage: My grandparents brought me up after my Usage: I don't care for his behaviour.
parents died.
31. catch up
21. bring something up Meaning: get to the same point as somebody else
Meaning: start talking about a subject Usage: You'll have to run faster than that if you
Usage: My mother walks out of the room when want to catch up with Marty.
my father brings up sports.
32. check in
22. bring something up Meaning: arrive and register at a hotel or airport
Meaning: vomit Usage: We will get the hotel keys when we check
Usage: He drank so much that he brought his in.
dinner up in the toilet.
33. check out
23. call around Meaning: leave a hotel
Meaning: phone many different places/people Usage: You have to check out of the hotel before
Usage: We called around but we weren't able to 11:00 AM.
find the car part we needed.
34. check somebody/ something out
24. call somebody back Meaning: look at carefully, investigate
Meaning: return a phone call Usage: The company checks out all new
Usage: I called the company back but the offices employees.
were closed for the weekend.
35. check out somebody/ something
25. call something off Meaning: look at (informal)
Meaning: cancel Usage: Check out the crazy hair on that guy!
Usage: Jason called the wedding off because he
wasn't in love with his fiance. 36. cheer up
Meaning: become happier
26. call on somebody Usage: She cheered up when she heard the good
Meaning: ask for an answer or opinion news.
Usage: The professor called on me for question 1
37. cheer somebody up
27. call on somebody Meaning: make happier
Meaning: visit somebody Usage: I brought you some flowers to cheer you
We called on you last night but you weren't up.
home.
38. chip in

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
289
Meaning: help
Usage: If everyone chips in we can get the 48. cut something down
kitchen painted by noon. Meaning: make something fall to the ground
Usage: We had to cut the old tree in our yard
39. clean something up down after the storm.
Meaning: tidy, clean
Usage: Please clean up your bedroom before you 49. cut in
go outside. Meaning: interrupt
Usage: Your father cut in while I was dancing
40. come across something with your uncle.
Meaning: find unexpectedly
Usage: I came across these old photos when I 50. cut in
was tidying the closet. Meaning: pull in too closely in front of another
Usage: vehicle the bus driver got angry when that
41. come apart car cut in.
Meaning: separate
Usage: The top and bottom come apart if you pull 51. cut in
hard enough. Meaning: start operating (of an engine or
electrical device)
42. come down with something Usage: The air conditioner cuts in when the
Meaning: become sick temperature gets to 22°C.
Usage: My nephew came down with chicken pox
this weekend. 52. cut something off
Meaning: remove with something sharp
43. come forward Usage: The doctors cut off his leg because it was
Meaning: volunteer for a task or to give evidence severely injured.
Usage: The woman came forward with her
husband's finger prints. 53. cut something off
Meaning: stop providing
44. come from some place Usage: The phone company cut off our phone
Meaning: originate in because we didn't pay the bill.
Usage: The art of origami comes from Asia.
54. cut somebody off
45. count on somebody/ something Meaning: take out of a will
Meaning: rely on Usage: My grandparents cut my father off when
Usage: I am counting on you to make dinner he remarried.
while I am out.
55. cut something out
46. cross something out Meaning: remove part of something (usually with
Meaning: draw a line through scissors and paper)
Usage: Please cross out your old address and Usage: I cut this ad out of the newspaper.
write your new one.
56. do somebody/ something over
47. cut back on something Meaning: beat up, ransack (BrE, informal)
Meaning: consume less Usage: He's lucky to be alive. His shop was done
Usage: My doctor wants me to cut back on over by a street gang.
sweets and fatty foods.

290
Usage: We ended up renting a movie instead of

57. do something over going to the theatre.
Meaning: do again (AmE)
Usage: My teacher wants me to do my essay over 67. fall apart
because she doesn't like my topic. Meaning: break into pieces
Usage: My new dress fell apart in the washing
58. do away with something machine.
Meaning: discard
Usage: It's time to do away with all of these old 68. fall down
tax records. Meaning: fall to the ground
Usage: The picture that you hung up last night
59. do something up fell down this morning.
Meaning: fasten, close
Usage: Do your coat up before you go outside. 69. fall out
It's snowing! Meaning: separate from an interior
Usage: The money must have fallen out of my
60. dress up pocket.
Meaning: wear nice clothing
Usage: It's a fancy restaurant so we have to 70. fall out
dress up. Meaning: (of hair, teeth) become loose and
unattached
61. drop back Usage: His hair started to fall out when he was
Meaning: move back in a position/group only 35.
Usage: Andrea dropped back to third place when
she fell off her bike. 71. figure something out
Meaning: understand, find the answer
62. drop in/ by/ over Usage: I need to figure out how to fit the piano
Meaning: come without an appointment and the bookshelf in this room.
Usage: I might drop in/by/over for tea sometime
this week. 72. fill something in
Meaning: to write information in blanks, as on a
63. drop somebody/ something off form (BrE)
Meaning: take somebody/ something somewhere Usage: Please fill in the form with your name,
and leave them/it there address, and phone number.
Usage: I have to drop my sister off at work before
I come over. 73. fill something out
Meaning: to write information in blanks, as on a
64. drop out form (AmE)
Meaning: quit a class, school etc Usage: The form must be filled out in capital
Usage: I dropped out of Science because it was letters.
too difficult.
74. fill something up
65. eat out Meaning: fill to the top
Meaning: eat at a restaurant Usage: I always fill the water jug up when it is
Usage: I don't feel like cooking tonight. Let's eat empty.
out.
75. find out
66. end up Meaning: discover
Meaning: eventually reach/do/decide

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
291
Usage: We don't know where he lives. How can 85. get back into something
we find out? Meaning: become interested in something again
Usage: I finally got back into my novel and
76. find something out finished it.
Meaning: discover
Usage: We tried to keep the time of the party a 86. get on something
secret, but Samantha found it out. Meaning: step onto a vehicle
Usage: We're going to freeze out here if you don't
77. get something across/ over let us get on the bus.
Meaning: communicate, make under standab
Usage: I tried to get my point across/over to the 87. get over something
judge but she wouldn't listen. Meaning: recover from an illness, loss, difficulty
Usage: I just got over the flu and now my sister
78. get along/on has it.
Meaning: like each other
Usage: I was surprised how well my new 88. get over something
girlfriend and my sister got along/on. Meaning: overcome a problem
Usage: The company will have to close if it can't
79. get around get over the new regulations.
Meaning: have mobility
Usage: My grandfather can get around fine in his 89. get round to something
new wheelchair. Meaning: finally find time to do (AmE: get around
to something)
80. get away Usage: I don't know when I am going to get round
Meaning: go on a vacation to writing the thank you cards.
Usage: We worked so hard this year that we had
to get away for a week. 90. get together
Meaning: meet (usually for social reasons)
81. get away with something Usage: Let's get together for a BBQ this weekend.
Meaning: do without being noticed or punished
Usage: Jason always gets away with cheating in 91. get up
his maths tests. Meaning: get out of bed
Usage: I got up early today to study for my exam.
82. get back
Meaning: return 92. get up
Usage: We got back from our vacation last week. Meaning: stand
Usage: You should get up and give the elderly
83. get something back man your seat.
Meaning: receive something you had before
Usage: Liz finally got her Science notes back 93. give somebody away
from my room-mate. Meaning: reveal hidden information about
somebody
84. get back at somebody Usage: His wife gave him away to the police.
Meaning: retaliate, take revenge
Usage: My sister got back at me for stealing her 94. give somebody away
shoes. She stole my favourite hat. Meaning: take the bride to the altar
Usage: My father gave me away at my wedding.

292
95. give something away 105. go ahead

Meaning: ruin a secret Meaning: start, proceed
Usage: My little sister gave the surprise party Usage: Please go ahead and eat before the food
away by accident. gets cold.
96. give something away 106. go back

Meaning: give something to somebody for free Meaning: return to a place
Usage: The library was giving away old books on Usage: I have to go back home and get my lunch.
Friday.
107. go out
97. give something back Meaning: leave home to go on a social even
Meaning: return a borrowed item Usage: We're going out for dinner tonight.
Usage: I have to give these skates back to Franz
before his hockey game. 108. go out with somebody
Meaning: date
98. give in Usage: Jesse has been going out with Luke since
Meaning: reluctantly stop fighting or arguin they met last winter.
Usage: My boyfriend didn't want to go to the
ballet, but he finally gave in. 109. go over something
Meaning: review
99. give something out Usage: Please go over your answers before you
Meaning: give to many people (usually at no submit your test.
cost)
Usage: They were giving out free perfume 110. go over
samples at the department store. Meaning: visit somebody nearby
Usage: I haven't seen Tina for a long time. I think
100. give something up I'll go over for an hour or two.
Meaning: quit a habit
Usage: I am giving up smoking as of January 1st. 111. go without something
Meaning: suffer lack or deprivation
101. give up Usage: When I was young, we went without
Meaning: stop trying winter boots.
Usage: My maths homework was too difficult so I
gave up. 112. grow apart
Meaning: stop being friends over time
102. go after somebody Usage: My best friend and I grew apart after she
Meaning: follow somebody changed schools.
Usage: My brother tried to go after the thief in his
car. 113. grow back
Meaning: regrow
103. go after something Usage: My roses grew back this sum
Meaning: try to achieve something
Usage: I went after my dream and now I am a 114. grow into something
published writer. Meaning: grow big enough to fit
Usage: This bike is too big for him now, but he
104. go against somebody should grow into it by next year.
Meaning: compete, oppose
Usage: We are going against the best soccer 115. grow out of something
team in the city tonight. Meaning: get too big for

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
293
Usage: Elizabeth needs a new pair of shoes 126. hold something back
because she has grown out of her old ones. Meaning: hide an emotion
Usage: Jamie held back his tears at his
116. grow up grandfather's funeral.
Meaning: become an adult
Usage: When Jack grows up he wants to be a 127. hold on
fireman. Meaning: wait a short time
Usage: Please hold on while I transfer you to the
117. hand something down Sales Department.
Meaning: give something used to somebody else
Usage: I handed my old comic books down to my 128. hold onto somebody/ something
little cousin. Meaning: hold firmly using your hands or arms
Usage: Hold onto your hat because it's very
118. hand something in windy outside.
Meaning: submit
Usage: I have to hand in my essay by Friday. 129. hold somebody/ something up
Meaning: rob
119. hand something out Usage: A man in a black mask held the bank up
Meaning: to distribute to a group of people this morning.
Usage: We will hand out the invitations at the
door. 130. keep on doing something
Meaning: continue doing
120. hand something over Usage: Keep on stirring until the liquid comes to
Meaning: give (usually unwillingly) a boil.
Usage: The police asked the man to hand over
his wallet and his weapons. 131. keep something from somebody
Meaning: not tell
121. hang in Usage: We kept our relationship from our parents
Meaning: stay positive (informal) for two years.
Usage: Hang in there. I'm sure you'll find a job
very soon. 132. keep somebody/ something out
Meaning: stop from entering
122. hang on Usage: Try to keep the wet dog out of the living
Meaning: wait a short time (informal) room.
Usage: Hang on while I grab my coat and shoes!
133. keep something up
123. hang out Meaning: continue at the same rate
Meaning: spend time relaxing (informal) Usage: If you keep those results up you will get
Usage: Instead of going to the party we are just into a great college.
going to hang out at my place.
134. let somebody down
124. hang up Meaning: fail to support or help, disappoint
Meaning: end a phone call Usage: I need you to be on time. Don't let me
Usage: He didn't say goodbye before he hung up. down this time.
125. hold somebody/ something back 135. let somebody in

Meaning: prevent from doing/going Meaning: allow to enter
Usage: I had to hold my dog back because there Usage: Can you let the cat in before you go to
was a cat in the park. school?

294
136. log in (or on) 146. look something up

Meaning: sign in (to a website, database etc. Meaning: search and find information in a
Usage: I can't log in to Facebook because I've reference book or database
forgotten my password. Usage: We can look her phone number up on the
Internet.
137. log out (or off)
Meaning: sign out (of a website, database etc.) 147. look up to somebody
Usage: If you don't log off somebody could get Meaning: have a lot of respect for
into your account. Usage: My little sister has always looked up to
me.
138. look after somebody/ something
Meaning: take care of 148. make something up
Usage: I have to look after my sick grandmother. Meaning: invent, lie about something
Usage: Josie made up a story about why we were
139. look down on somebody late.
Meaning: think less of, consider inferior
Usage: Ever since we stole that chocolate bar 149. make up
your dad has looked down on me. Meaning: forgive each other
Usage: We were angry last night, but we made up
140. look for somebody/ something at breakfast.
Meaning: try to find
Usage: I'm looking for a red dress for the 150. make somebody up
wedding. Meaning: apply cosmetics to
Usage: My sisters made me up for my graduation
141. look forward to something party.
Meaning: be excited about the future
Usage: I'm looking forward to the Christmas 151. mix something up
break. Meaning: confuse two or more things
Usage: I mixed up the twins' names again!
142. look into something
Meaning: investigate 152. pass away
Usage: We are going to look into the price of Meaning: die
snowboards today. Usage: His uncle passed away last night after a
long illness.
143. look out
Meaning: be careful, vigilant, and take notice 153. pass out
Usage: Look out! That car's going to hit you! Meaning: faint
Usage: It was so hot in the church that an elderly
144. look out for somebody/ something lady passed out.
Meaning: be especially vigilant for
Usage: Don't forget to look out for snakes on the 154. pass something out
hiking trail. Meaning: give the same thing to many people
Usage: The professor passed the textbooks out
145. look something over before class.
Meaning: check, examine
Usage: Can you look over my essay for spelling 155. pass something up
mistakes? Meaning: decline (usually something good)
Usage: I passed up the job because I am afraid of
change.

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
295
156. pay somebody back Usage: I don't think I can put up with three small
Meaning: return owed money children in the car.
Usage: Thanks for buying my ticket. I'll pay you
back on Friday. 166. put something on
Meaning: put clothing/ accessories on your body
157. pay for something Usage: Don't forget to put on your new earrings
Meaning: be punished for doing something bad for the party.
Usage: That bully will pay for being mean to my
little brother. 167. run into somebody/ something
Meaning: meet unexpectedly
158. pick something out Usage: I ran into an old school-friend at the mall.
Meaning: choose
Usage: I picked out three sweaters for you to try 168. run over somebody/ something
on. Meaning: drive a vehicle over a person or
thing
159. point somebody/ something out Usage: I accidentally ran over your bicycle in the
Meaning: indicate with your finger driveway
Usage: I'll point my boyfriend out when he runs
by. 169. run over/ through something
Meaning: rehearse, review
160. put something down Usage: Let's run over/through these lines one
Meaning: put what you are holding on a surface more time before the show.
or floor
Usage: You can put the groceries down on the 170. run away
kitchen counter. Meaning: leave unexpectedly, escape
Usage: The child ran away from home and has
161. put somebody down been missing for three days.
Meaning: insult, make somebody feel stupid
Usage: The students put the substitute teacher 171. run out
down because his pants were too short. Meaning: have none left
Usage: We ran out of shampoo so I had to wash
162. put something off my hair with soap.
Meaning: postpone
Usage: We are putting off our trip until January 172. send something back
because of the hurricane. Meaning: return (usually by mail)
Usage: My letter got sent back to me because I
163. put something out used the wrong stamp.
Meaning: extinguish
Usage: The neighbours put the fire out before the 173. set something up
firemen arrived. Meaning: arrange, organize
Usage: Our boss set a meeting up with the
164. put something together president of the company.
Meaning: assemble
Usage: I have to put the crib together before the 174. set somebody up
baby arrives. Meaning: trick, trap
Usage: The police set up the car thief by using a
165. put up with somebody/ something hidden camera.
Meaning: tolerate

296
175. shop around Usage: I have to take our new TV back because it
Meaning: compare prices doesn't work.
Usage: I want to shop around a little before I
decide on these boots. 185. take off
Meaning: start to fly
176. show off Usage: My plane takes off in five minutes.
Meaning: act extra special for people watching
(usually boastfully) 186. take something off
Usage: He always shows off on his skateboard Meaning: remove something (usually clothing)
Usage: Take off your socks and shoes and come
177. sleep over in the lake!
Meaning: stay somewhere for the night (informal)
Usage: You should sleep over tonight if the 187. take something out
weather is too bad to drive home. Meaning: remove from a place or thing
Usage: Can you take the garbage out to the street
178. sort something out for me?
Meaning: organize, resolve a problem
Usage: We need to sort the bills out before the 188. take somebody out
first of the month. Meaning: pay for somebody to go somewhere
with you
179. stick to something Usage: My grandparents took us out for dinner
Meaning: continue doing something, limit your and a movie.
self to one particular thing
Usage: You will lose weight if you stick to the 189. tear something up
diet. Meaning: rip into pieces
Usage: I tore up my ex-boyfriend's letters and
180. switch something off gave them back to him.
Meaning: stop the energy flow, turn off
Usage: The light's too bright. Could you switch it 190. think back
off. Meaning: remember (often + to, sometimes + on)
Usage: When I think back on my youth, I wish I
181. switch something on had studied harder.
Meaning: start the energy flow, turn on
Usage: We heard the news as soon as we 191. think something over
switched on the car radio. Meaning: consider
Usage: I'll have to think this job offer over before
182. take after somebody I make my final decision.
Meaning: resemble a family member
Usage: I take after my mother. We are both 192. throw something away
impatient. Meaning: dispose of
Usage: We threw our old furniture away when we
183. take something apart won the lottery.
Meaning: purposely break into pieces
Usage: He took the car brakes apart and found 193. turn something down
the problem. Meaning: decrease the volume or strength (heat,
light etc.)
184. take something back Usage: Please turn the TV down while the guests
Meaning: return an item are here.

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
297
194. turn something down 202. use something up

Meaning: refuse Meaning: finish the supply
Usage: I turned the job down because I don't Usage: The kids used all of the toothpaste up so
want to move. we need to buy some more.
195. turn something off 203. wake up

Meaning: stop the energy flow, switch off Meaning: stop sleeping
Usage: Your mother wants you to turn the TV off Usage: We have to wake up early for work on
and come for dinner. Monday.
196. turn something on 204. warm somebody/ something up

Meaning: start the energy, switch on Meaning: increase the temperature
Usage: It's too dark in here. Let's turn some lights Usage: You can warm your feet up in front of the
on. fireplace.
197. turn something up 205. warm up

Meaning: increase the volume or strength (heat, Meaning: prepare body for exercise
light etc.) Usage: I always warm up by doing sit-ups before
Usage: Can you turn the music up? This is my I go for a run.
favourite song.
206. wear off
198. turn up Meaning: fade away
Meaning: appear suddenly Usage: Most of my make-up wore off before I got
Usage: Our cat turned up after we put posters up to the party.
all over the neighbourhood.
207. work out
199. try something on Meaning: exercise
Meaning: sample clothing Usage: I work out at the gym three times a week.
Usage: I'm going to try these jeans on, but I don't
think they will fit. 208. work out
Meaning: be successful
200. try something on Usage: Our plan worked out fine.
Meaning: sample clothing
Usage: I'm going to try these jeans on, but I don't 209. work something out
think they will fit. Meaning: make a calculation
Usage: We have to work out the total cost before
201. try something out we buy the house.
Meaning: test
Usage: I am going to try this new brand of
detergent out.

298
Misspelt
Misspelt 09
Misspelt is defined as you spelled a word incorrectly. When you wrote down a word with an incorrect spelling, this is
an example of a time when you misspelt the word. These are very common words being asked in various
examinations in misspelt section.
A 31.
32.
Beginning
Believe
1. Absence 33. Biscuit
2. Abundance
34. Bouillon
3. Accessible 35. Boundary
4. Accidentally
36. Britain
5. Acclaim
37. Buddha
6. Accommodate 38. Business
7. Accomplish
8. Accordion
C
39. Calendar
9. Accumulate
40. Camouflage
10. Achievement 41. Cantaloupe
11. Acquaintance 42. Category
12. Across 43. Cemetery
13. Address 44. Chagrined
14. Advertisement 45. Challenge
15. Aggravate 46. Characteristic
16. Alleged 47. Changing
17. Annual 48. Chief
18. Apparent 49. Cigarette
19. Appearance 50. Climbed
20. Argument 51. Collectible
21. Atheist 52. Colonel
22. Athletics 53. Colossal
23. Attendance 54. Column
24. Auxiliary 55. Coming
B 56. Committee
57. Commitment
25. Balloon
58. Comparative
26. Barbecue
59. Competent
27. Barbiturate
60. Completely
28. Bargain
61. Concede
29. Basically
62. Conceive
30. Beggar

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
299
63.
64.
Condemn
Condescend
E
103. Easily
65. Conscientious
66. 104. Ecstasy
Consciousness
105. Efficiency
67. Consistent
68. 106. Eighth
Continuous
69. Controlled 107. Either
70. 108. Eligible
Coolly
71. Corollary 109. Emperor
72. 110. Enemy
Convenient
73. 111. Entirely
Correlate
74. 112. Equipped
Correspondence
75. Counselor 113. Equivalent
76. 114. Especially
Courteous
77. Courtesy 115. Exaggerate
78. 116. Exceed
Criticize
117. Excellence
D 118. Excellent
79. Deceive 119. Exhaust
80. Defendant 120. Existence
81. Deferred 121. Expense
82. Dependent 122. Experience
83. Descend 123. Experiment
84. Description 124. Explanation
85. Desirable 125. Extremely
86. Despair 126. Exuberance
87.
88.
Desperate
Develop
F
89. Development 127. Fallacious
90. Difference 128. Fallacy
91. 129. Familiar
Dilemma
130. Fascinate
92. Dining
131. Feasible
93. Disappearance
94. Disappoint 132. Fictitious
95. 133. Finally
Disastrous
96. Discipline 134. Financially
135. Fluorescent
97. Disease
136. Forcibly
98. Dispensable
99. 137. Foreign
Dissatisfied
138. Forfeit
100. Doesn't
101. 139. Formerly
Dominant
140. Foresee
102. Drunkenness
141. Forty

300
142. Fourth 179. Indispensable

143. Fulfill 180. Inevitable
144. Fundamentally 181. Influential
G 182.
183.
Information
Inoculate
145. Gauge 184. Insurance
146. Generally
185. Intelligence
147. Genius 186. Intercede
148. Government
187. Interference
149. Governor 188. Interrupt
150. Grievous 189. Introduce
151. Guarantee 190. Irrelevant
152. Guerrilla
191. Irresistible
153. Guidance 192. Island
H J
154. Handkerchief 193. Jealousy
155. Happily 194. Judicial
156. Harass
157. Height K
158. Heinous 195. Knowledge
159. Hemorrhage 196. Kennel
160. Heroes 197. Kernel
161. Hesitancy 198. Kiln
162. Hindrance 199. Kindle
163. Hoarse 200. Kinetic
164. Hoping 201. Knave
165. Humorous 202. Knoll
166. Hypocrisy 203. Knit
167. Hypocrite
L
I 204. Laboratory
168. Ideally 205. Legitimate
169. Idiosyncrasy 206. Leisure
170. Ignorance 207. Length
171. Imaginary 208. Lenient
172. Immediately 209. Liaison
173. Implement 210. License
174. Incidentally 211. Lieutenant
175. Incredible 212. Lightning
176. Independence 213. Likelihood
177. Independent 214. Likely
178. Indicted 215. Longitude

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
301
216. Loneliness 253. Obedience

217. Losing 254. Obstacle
218. Lovely 255. Occasion
219. Luxury 256. Occasionally
M 257.
258.
Occurred
Occurrence
220. Magazine
259. Official
221. Maintain 260. Omission
222. Maintenance
261. Omit
223. Manageable 262. Omitted
224. Maneuver 263. Opinion
225. Marriage 264. Opponent
226. Mathematics
265. Opportunity
227. Medicine 266. Oppression
228. Millennium
267. Optimism
229. Millionaire 268. Ordinarily
230. Miniature
269. Origin
231. Minuscule 270. Original
232. Minutes
271. Outrageous
233. Mischievous 272. Overrun
234. Missile
235. Misspelled P
236. Mortgage 273. Panicky
237. Mosquito 274. Parallel
238. Mosquitoes 275. Parliament
239. Murmur 276. Particularly
240. Muscle 277. Pavilion
241. Mysterious 278. Peaceable
N 279.
280.
Peculiar
Penetrate
242. Narrative 281. Perceive
243. Naturally
282. Performance
244. Necessary 283. Permanent
245. Necessity
284. Permissible
246. Neighbor 285. Permitted
247. Neutron
286. Perseverance
248. Ninety 287. Persistence
249. Ninth
288. Physical
250. Noticeable 289. Physician
251. Nowadays
290. Picnicking
252. Nuisance 291. Piece
O 292. Pilgrimage
293. Pitiful

302
294. Planning 333. Recommend

295. Pleasant 334. Reference
296. Portray 335. Referred
297. Possess 336. Relevant
298. Possessive 337. Relieving
299. Potato 338. Religious
300. Potatoes 339. Remembrance
301. Practically 340. Reminiscence
302. Prairie 341. Renege
303. Preference 342. Repetition
304. Preferred 343. Representative
305. Prejudice 344. Resemblance
306. Preparation 345. Reservoir
307. Prescription 346. Resistance
308. Prevalent 347. Restaurant
309. Primitive 348. Rheumatism
310. Privilege 349. Rhythm
311. Probably 350. Rhythmical
312. Procedure 351. Roommate
313.
314.
Proceed
Professor
S
315. Prominent 352. Sacrilegious
316. Pronounce 353. Sacrifice
317. 354. Safety
Pronunciation
318. Propaganda 355. Salary
356. Satellite
319. Psychology
320. 357. Scary
Publicly
321. Pursue 358. Scenery
359. Schedule
Q 360. Secede
322. Quandary 361. Secretary
323. Quarantine 362. Seize
324. Questionnaire 363. Sentence
325. Quizzes 364. Separate
R 365.
366.
Sergeant
Several
326. Realistically 367. Shepherd
327. Realize
368. Shining
328. Really 369. Similar
329. Recede
370. Simile
330. Receipt 371. Simply
331. Receive
372. Sincerely
332. Recognize 373. Skiing

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
303
374. Soliloquy 415. Tournament

375. Sophomore 416. Tourniquet
376. Souvenir 417. Transferred
377. Specifically 418. Truly
378. Specimen 419. Twelfth
379. Sponsor 420. Tyranny
380.
381.
Spontaneous
Statistics
U
421. Unanimous
382. Stopped
383. 422. Undoubtedly
Strategy
384. 423. Unnecessary
Strength
385. 424. Until
Strenuous
386. Stubbornness 425. Usage
387. 426. Usually
Subordinate
388. Subtle V
389. Succeed 427. Vacuum
390. Success 428. Valuable
391. Succession 429. Vengeance
392. Sufficient 430. Vigilant
393. Supersede 431. Village
394. Suppress 432. Villain
395. Surprise 433. Violence
396. Surround 434. Visible
397. Susceptible
398. Suspicious W
399. Syllable 435. Warrant
400. Symmetrical 436. Wednesday
401. Synonymous 437. Weird
438. Wherever
T 439. Wholly
402. Tangible
403. Technical X
404. Technique 440. Xenophobe
405. Temperature 441. Xenophobia
406. Tendency Y
407. Themselves
442. Yacht
408. Theories
443. Yield
409. Therefore
410. Thorough Z
411. Though 444. Zoology
412. Through
413. Till
414. Tomorrow

304
Misspelt Exercise
Misspelt Exercise 10
0
10. The caverns were so damp that my skin felt______
1. The newly-fallen snow ________ transformed the
(A) Clamby (B) Clamy
landscape.
(C) Clammy (D) Clammby
(A) Magicaly (B) Magickelly
(C) Majicelly (D) Magically
11. It was a ________ day for the annual picnic.
(A) Supurb (B) Supperb
2. Her ______ into mathematical concepts was
(C) Superb (D) Sepurb
evident when she correctly analyzed a
challenging question.
12. The first time Wendy drove her new car into
(A) Insite (B) Inscite
town, all of her friends were ________.
(C) Ensight (D) Insight
(A) Jellous (B) Jealous
(C) Jealuse (D) Jeolous
3. The baby’s soft skin was ________ to the harsh
winter wind.
13. The opening night performance was so ________
(A) Sensitiv (B) Sencitive
that the cast was given many extra curtain calls.
(C) Sensitive (D) Sinsative
(A) Teriffic (B) Terrific
(C) Terrific (D) Terific
4. It is my ________ that municipal employees
handle their jobs with great professionalism.
14. To be elected ________, candidates must have a
(A) Beliaf (B) Bilief
solid background in law enforcement.
(C) Belief (D) Beleaf
(A) Sherrif (B) Sherriff
(C) Seriff (D) Sherif
5. My sister is going to be on the cover of
Seventeen ________.
(A) Magazine (B) Magazene 15. Learning the words to all of Robert Frost’s poetry
has become an ________ for Jonathan.
(C) Magazin (D) Magazine
(A) Obsession (B) Obsessian
(C) Obsesion (D) Obsessiun
6. The sounding alarm signaled a _____ in security.
(A) Broich (B) Breche
16. Driving on icy roads can place you in ________.
(C) Breach (D) Briech
(A) Jeopardy (B) Jepardy
(C) Jeoprdy (D) Jopardy
7. For some reason, I ________ a change in her
attitude.
(A) Perceived (B) Preceived 17. Nora was awestruck by the ________ mountain
(C) Percived (D) Precieved range in the national park.
(A) Magnifisint (B) Magnifisent
(C) Magnificent (D) Magnifficent
8. If you stay in the water too long, your fingertips
will ________.
18. From inside the box came a strange ________
(A) Shrival (B) Shrivvel
sound.
(C) Shrivval (D) Shrivel
(A) Mechanical (B) Mechhanical
(C) Mecanical (D) Machanical
9 I just don’t know what I would do in her______.
(A) Situation (B) Situattion
19. The agents were searching for ________ cargo on
(C) Situashun (D) Sitiation
the airplane.

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
305
(A) Elicit (B) Ellicit (C) Irrelevant (D) Irrelevent

(C) Illicit (D) Illicit
30. The mayor highlighted the ________ statistics
20. There will be an immediate ________ into the during her campaign speech.
cause of the accident. (A) Encouredging (B) Encouraging
(A) Inquiry (B) Inquirry (C) Incurraging (D) Incouraging
(C) Enquiry (D) Enquery
31. The journalist made a ________ to finish the
21. The contract for the teachers’ union could not be article by Friday.
________ before the school year ended. (A) Comitment (B) Committent
(A) Termiated (B) Termenated (C) Commitment (D) Comitment
(C) Terminated (D) Termanated
32. Dad thinks it is ________ to stay up late on a
22. The Pilgrims came to America to escape school night.
religious ________. (A) Ridiculous (B) Rediculus
(A) Persecution (B) Pursecution (C) Ridicullous (D) Ridiculus
(C) Presecution (D) Persecusion
33. The large donation came from an______ source.
23. The color she chose was a ________ shade of (A) Anynonimous (B) Anonimous
blue. (C) Anounymous (D) Anonymous
(A) Pacullier (B) Pecullear
(C) Peculiar (D) Piculear 34. The scientists had to do an ________ amount of
research on the project.
24. Some people say that ________ is not a true (A) Extraordinary (B) Extraordinery
science. (C) Extrordinary (D) Ecstraordinary
(A) Psycology (B) Psycholigy
(C) Psychology (D) Psychology 35. The customer service representative gave his
________ that the refund would be made within
25. Getting a driver’s ________ is a rite of passage for two weeks.
most teenagers. (A) Assurance (B) Assurance
(A) License (B) Lisence (C) Asurance (D) Assureance
(C) Lycence (D) Lisense
36. The purpose of the new city ordinance was
26. The reporter gave a ________ and accurate debated ________.
account of the events. (A) Frequently (B) Frequintly
(A) Concise (B) Concize (C) Frequeantly (D) Frequently
(C) Consise (D) Cuncise
37. Throughout the trial, the ________ was placed on
27. My next-door ________ planted some beautiful scientific evidence.
flowers near his sidewalk. (A) Emphasis (B) Emphisis
(A) Neighbur (B) Neihbor (C) Emphesis (D) Emfasis
(C) Niehbor (D) Neighbour
28. The paramedics attempted to ________ the victim. 38. The presidential candidate refused to ________
(A) Stabilize (B) Stablize the election until every vote was counted.
(C) Stableize (D) Stabalize (A) Concede (B) Conceed
(C) Consede (D) Conseed
29. The attorney asked a question that was ________ 39. Each of the new employees had similar ________.
to the case; the judge overruled it. (A) Asspirations (B) Asparations
(A) Irelevent (B) Irelevant (C) Aspirrations (D) Aspirations

306
(C) Incesant (D) Incisant

40. The young man wished to ________ his right to
speak freely. 51. All of a sudden they found themselves facing a
(A) Exercise (B) Exarcize terrible ________.
(C) Exersize (D) Exercize (A) Dilemma (B) Dilenma
(C) Dilema (D) Dilemna
41. The president and the vice president were a
________ pair. 52. That method is the most ________ way to get the
(A) Compatibel (B) Compatable job done.
(C) Compatible (D) Commpatible (A) Eficient (B) Eficeint
(C) efficient (D) efficeint
42. I was ________ of the claims made by the
loquacious salesman. 53. The labor union took steps to ________ the poor
(A) Skeptical (B) Skeptikal working conditions.
(C) Skaptical (D) Skepticil (A) amieliorate (B) amiliorate
(C) ameliorate (D) amielierate
43. The valedictorian will give the ________ address.
(A) Commencement (B) Comencemment 54. My ________ needs to be paid every month.
(C) Comencement (D) Comencment (A) Mortgage (B) Morgauge
(C) Mortigage (D) Morgauge
44. Who is your immediate ________?
(A) Superviser (B) Supervizer 55. His curt answer ________ me even more.
(C) Supurvisor (D) Supervisor (A) Agravaeted (B) Aggravated
(C) Aggraveted (D) Aggravatid
45. There are two types of _______ viral and bacterial.
(A) Neumonia (B) Pneummonia 56. The pilot was a ________ in the Air Force.
(C) Pneumonia (D) Newmonia (A) Lieutenant (B) Liutanant
(C) Leutienant (D) Lutenant
46. The ________ size of the cathedral was typical of
the Middle Ages. 57. Please try to ________ me on the trip.
(A) Colossal (B) Collossal (A) Accumpany (B) Acommpany
(C) Collosal (D) Colassal (C) Acompany (D) Accompany
47. All of the ________ is set up for the gymnastic 1 58. The editor’s ________ can only be expressed on
tournament. the Op-Ed page.
(A) Apparatus (B) Aparatus (A) Viewpoint (B) Veiwpoint
(C) Apparetus (D) Aparratus (C) Viewpointe (D) Veiupoint
48. With such huge debt, he was forced to file for____ 59. The lights of the Aurora Borealis are a natural____
(A) Bankruptsy (B) Bankraptcy (A) Phenomenon (B) Phenominnon
(C) Bankropcy (D) Bankruptcy (C) Phenomanon (D) Phinominon
49. The auto repair shop specialized in rebuilding____ 60. Since it was a formal affair, he had to wear a_____
(A) Carbueretors (B) Carburetors (A) Tuxcedo (B) Tuxedo
(C) Carboretors (D) Carborators (C) Tucxedo (D) Tuxeedo
50. All day long there was an ________ drone of 61. The three sisters were all ________.
automobiles from the freeway. (A) Brunetes (B) Brunettes
(A) Incessant (B) Insessant (C) Brunetts (D) Brunnets

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
307
72. She believed it was her ________ to change her

62. There was some ________ of order when I finished mind.
cleaning the house. (A) Prerogative (B) Perugative
(A) Semblance (B) Semblince (C) Prarogative (D) Prerogetive
(C) Semblence (D) Semblanse
73. The ________ disappearance of my diary bothered
63. The dentist took care of her ________ tooth. me all day.
(A) AbCcessed (B) Absessed (A) Mysterious (B) Mistereous
(C) Abscessed (D) Abcessed (C) Mystarious (D) Mysterious
64. Over four-hundred applicants entered the beauty 74. My brother is _____ to taking long walks after
________. dinner.
(A) Pagiant (B) Pajiant (A) Accustomad (B) Acustomed
(C) Pageant (D) Pajeant (C) Accustomed (D) Accustommed
65. In many states, passing a road test requires 75. My best friend is an ________ optimist.
drivers to ________ park. (A) Incorrigible (B) Incorriggible
(A) Parallel (B) Paralell (C) Incorigible (D) Incorrigable
(C) Parallal (D) Paralel
76. Milk is ________ before it is sold to customers.
66. His logic was ________ flawed. (A) Pastureized (B) Pastiurized
(A) Fundimentally (B) Fundamentally (C) Pasteurized (D) Pastuerised
(C) Fundamentaly (D) Fundamentelly
77. He was a self-proclaimed ________ of fine wines.
67. The breakfast ________ she served were the best I (A) Connoisseur (B) Conoisseur
have ever tasted. (C) Connoiseur (D) Connisseur
(A) Bisciuts (B) Biscutes
(C) Biscuits (D) Biscuiets 78. When the paramedics arrived, the victim was in
a ________ state.
68. The new homeowners chose the ______ carpeting. (A) Delerious (B) Delirious
(A) Beige (B) Bieje (C) Dellirious (D) Delireous
(C) Beig (D) Beije
79. His job was to ______ information to the troops.
69. Evan suffered from a severe case of ________. (A) Disemminate (B) Diseminate
(A) Tonsellitis (B) Tonsilitis (C) Disseminate (D) Desseminate
(C) Tonscilitis (D) Tonsillitis
80. The radio show was ________ with callers
70. Not only did he play the guitar, he played the responding to today’s trivia question.
________ as well. (A) Inundated (B) Innundated
(A) Ukalele (B) Ukelele (C) Inundanted (D) Inundatid
(C) Ukulale (D) Ukulele
81. For most people, a slice of chocolate cake can
71. Being an honor student, he______ in his studies. be _______.
(A) Exeled (B) Excelad (A) Irrisistible (B) Irresistible
(C) Exseled (D) Excelled (C) Iresistible (D) Irresistible
82. After the tornado, ______ was scattered (A) Debrie (B) Dibrie
everywhere. (C) Debris (D) Debree

308
(C) Colleagues (D) Colleages

83. He decided to dress in a gray suit in order to be
_______. 93. They returned from Europe with many________.
(A) Inconspicuous (B) Inconpiceous (A) Souveniers (B) Suovenirs
(C) Inconspicus (D) Inconspicious (C) Suvenirs (D) Souvenirs
84. The accounting firm was ________ for fraudulent 94. In some cultures, ________ young couples have
practices. prearranged weddings.
(A) Prosecuated (B) Prossecuted (A) Marriagiable (B) Marrageable
(C) Prosecuted (D) Prosecuited (C) Marriageable (D) Mariageable
85. The twenty dollar bills appeared to be ________. 95. Coffee stains made the note ________.
(A) Counterfeit (B) Counterfit (A) Illegible (B) Ilegible
(C) Countirfit (D) Counterfiet (C) Ilegable (D) Illegable
86. Is it ________ to bring pets into the park? 96. ________ is an antibiotic used to cure many I all
(A) Permisible (B) Permisable nesses.
(C) Permissiable (D) Permissible (A) Penicillen (B) Penicillin
(C) Penicillen (D) Penicilin
87 Unlike the other sections on the estate, the rose
garden was arranged ________. 97. ________ is often called the awkward stage.
(A) Symetricaly (B) Symetrically (A) Adolescense (B) Adolessents
(C) Symmetrically (D) Symetrically (C) Adolescence (D) Adolscence
88. For many years, ________ was a popular form of 98. William Shakespeare is considered the most
entertainment in America. famous ________ of all times.
(A) Vaudeville (B) Vawdville (A) Playwright (B) Playwrite
(C) Vaudevile (D) Vaudiville (C) Playright (D) Playwrighte
89. It took me thirty minutes to _____ the entire house 99. Many lifelong rules can be learned in ________.
(A) Vacuum (B) Vaccuum (A) Kindergarten (B) Kindergarden
(C) Vacum (D) Vacume (C) Kindregarden (D) Kintergarden
90. The auditorium could ______ five hundred people. 100. She received her ________ of arts degree last
(A) Acommodate (B) Accommodate spring.
(C) Acommedate (D) Accomodate (A) Batchelor (B) Bacheler
(C) Batchelor (D) Bachelor
91. The lemon ________ pie was enticing, but I had to
remember my diet. Solution
(A) Meringue (B) Merangue
(C) Merangue (D) Merange 1.(D) Magically 2.(A) Insite
3.(C) Sensitive 4.(C) Belief
5.(A) Magazine 6.(C) Breach
7.(A) Perceived 8.(D) Shrivel
92. The support from her _______ was overwhelming. 9.(A) Situation 10.(C) Clammy
(A) Coleagues (B) Collegues
11.(C) Superb 12.(B) Jealous 15.(A) Obsession 16.(A) Jeopardy

13.(C) Terrific 14.(B) Sherriff 17.(C) Magnificent 18.(A) Mechanical

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
309
19.(A) Elicit 20.(C) Enquiry 61.(B) Brunettes 62.(A) Semblance

21.(C) Terminated 22.(A) Persecution 63.(C) Abscessed 64.(C) Pageant
23.(C) Peculiar 24.(C) Psychology 65.(A) Parallel 66.(B) Fundamentally
25.(A) License 26.(A) Concise 67.(C) Biscuits 68.(A) Beige
27.(D) Neighbour 28.(A) Stabilize 69.(D) Tonsillitis 70.(D) Ukulele
29.(C) Irrelevant 30.(B) Encouraging 71.(D) Excelled 72.(A) Prerogative
31.(C) Commitment 32.(A) Ridiculous 73.(A) Mysterious 74.(C) Accustomed
33.(D) Anonymous 34.(A) Extraordinary 75.(A) Incorrigible 76.(C) Pasteurized
35.(A) Assurance 36.(A) Frequently 77.(A) Connoisseur 78.(B) Delirious
37.(A) Emphasis 38.(A) Concede 79.(C) Disseminate 80.(A) Inundated
39.(D) Aspirations 40.(A) Exercise 81.(D) Irresistible 82.(C) Debris
41.(C) Compatible 42.(A) Skeptical 83.(A) Inconspicuous 84.(C) Prosecuted
43.(A) Commencement 44.(D) Supervisor 85.(A) Counterfeit 86.(D) Permissible
45.(C) Pneumonia 46.(A) Colossal 87.(C) Symmetrically 88.(A) Vaudeville
47.(A) Apparatus 48.(D) Bankruptcy 89.(A) Vacuum 90.(B) Accommodate
49.(B) Carburetors 50.(A) Incessant 91.(A) Meringue 92.(C) Colleagues
51.(A) Dilemma 52.(C) efficient 93.(D) Souvenirs 94.(C) Marriageable
53.(C) ameliorate 54.(A) Mortgage 95.(A) Illegible 96.(B) Penicillin
55.(B) Aggravated 56.(A) Lieutenant 97.(C) Adolescence 98.(A) Playwright
57.(D) Accompany 58.(A) Viewpoint 99.(A) Kindergarten 100.(D) Bachelor
59.(A) Phenomenon 60.(B) Tuxedo

310
One word
Word Substitution
One word substitution substitution 11
One word Substitution is one of the integral parts of vocabulary. It simply means that a sentence has to be changed
with a single word. These questions require a good vocabulary to solve. Questions based on one word
substitution are often asked in various competitive exams.
Words denoting Numbers
1. Anthology A collection of poems

2. Army A number of soldiers
3. Assembly A number of people gathered together for a purpose
4. Audience A number of people listening to a concert or a lecture
5. Bale A quantity of cotton
6. Bale A quantity of wool
7. Barren A number of mules
8. Batch A quantity of bread baked at the same time
9. Battalion A number of soldiers
10. Bench A number of Judges or bishops
11. Bevy A number of beautiful girls
12. Bevy A number of beautiful girls
13. Bevy A number of larks
14. Bevy A number of quails
15. Board A number of directors of a company
16. Bouquet A collection of flowers
17. Brood A number of chickens hatched at the same time
18. Bunting A collection of flags
19. Canaille A number of disorderly people
20. Carillon A set of bells placed together for a tune to be played on them
21. Cast A couple of hawks
22. Catch A number of fish taken in a net
23. Choir A number of singers in a church
24. Claque A number of hired applauders
25. Clump A number of trees
26. Cluster A number of grapes on a bunch
27. Cluster A number of nuts
28. Clutch A collection of eggs
29. Coffle A number of slaves
30. Collection A number of pictures, curiosities etc
31. Company A number of actors
32. Congregation A number of people at church

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311
33. Constellation A number of stars grouped together

34. Convoy A number of merchant ships protected by warships
35. Cortege A number of people following a funeral
36. Coterie A group of people who get together to work forsome cause
37. Covey A small number of birds
38. Crate A collection of crockery
39. Crate A collection of fruits
40. Crew A number of sailors manning a ship
41. Crowd A number of people collected together in a street
42. Drove A number of horses driven together
43. Drove A number of ponies driven together
44. Fell A mass of hair
45. Field A number of athletes
46. Fleet A number of buses
47. Fleet A number of Lorries
48. Fleet A number of ships
49. Flight A number of bees moving together
50. Flight A number of birds moving together
51. Flight A number of insects moving together
52. Flock A number of sheep
53. Forest A large collection of trees
54. Gaggle A number of geese
55. Gam A number of whales
56. Gam A number of porpoises
57. Gang A number of slaves
58. Gang A number of workmen, prisoners, thieves etc
59. Gathering A number of people gathered together for a purpose
60. Group A number of islands
61. Hamlet A cluster of houses in a village
62. Hand A bundle of bananas
63. Haul A number of fish taken in a net
64. Herbarium A collection of dried plants
65. Herd A number of cattle feeding or driven together
66. Herd A number of swine feeding or driven together
67. Hive A number of bees living in the same place
68. Horde A number of savages
69. Host A collection of angels
70. Jury A number of jurymen engaged in a case
71. Kindle A number of kittens
72. Leap A number of leopards
73. Library A collection of books
74. Litter A number of pigs, dogs, cats brought forth at one birth

312
75. Menagerie A collection of wild animals

76. Mob A number of disorderly people
77. Muster A number of peacocks
78. Nest A number of rabbits living in the same place
79. Nest A number of snakes living in the same place
80. Nest A number of shelves
81. Nest A number of ants living in the same place
82. Nest A number of machine-guns
83. Nest A number of rabbits living in the same place
84. Nest A number of snakes living in the same place
85. Pack A number of asses
86. Pack A number of hounds
87. Pack A number of submarines
88. Pack A number of wolves
89. Panel A number of jurymen engaged in a case
90. Pencil A collection of rays
91. Posse A number of constables called to enforce the law
92. Poultry A collection of fowls, ducks etc
93. Rabble A number of disorderly people
94. Regiment A number of soldiers
95. Rookery A number of rooks
96. Rookery A number of seals
97. Rope A collection of pearls
98. School A number of porpoises
99. School A number of whales
100. Set A collection of tools
101. Sheaf A bunch of corn-plants
102. Sheaf A collection of arrows
103. Shoal A number of herrings
104. Shoal A number of mackerel
105. Shock A mass of hair
106. Skein A number of wild geese or swans in flight
107. Skein A quantity of woolen thread
108. Society A number of people gathered together for a purpose
109. Spectators A number of people looking on at a foot-ball match
110. Stack A collection of hay
111. Stack A collection of corn piled together
112. Stack A collection wood
113. Staff A number of servants
114. Stud A number of horses kept for riding, racing, and breeding
115. Suite A set of furniture, rooms etc
116. Swarm A number of bees

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
313
117. Swarm A number of ants

118. Swarm A number of locusts
119. Team A number of oxen or horses harnessed together
120. Tribe A number of persons of the same race or characters
121. Troop A number of soldiers
122. Troop A number of cavalry soldiers
123. Troop A number of lions
124. Troop A number of monkeys
125. Troupe A number of artists, dancers, acrobats
126. Truss A bundle of hay
127. Tuft A quantity of grass
128. Vivarium A collection of wild animals
129. Zoo A collection of wild animals
Words Denoting Traders
130. Acrobat One who performs daring gymnastic feats

131. Almoner A hospital welfare officer
132. Anthropologist One who studies the evolution of mankind
133. Auctioneer One who sells articles at public sales
134. Author One who writes books
135. Bursar The treasurer of a college or a university
136. Cartographer One who draws maps
137. Cashier One who pays out money at a bank
138. Chandler One who makes and sells candles
139. Chapman One who travels from place to place selling miscellaneous articles
140. Charwomen A woman employed to clean inside a building
141. Cobbler One who mends shoes
142. Colporteur One who travels from place to place selling religious articles
143. Confectioner One who sells sweets and pastries
144. Conjuror One who performs tricks by sleight of hands
145. Crimp One who entraps men to serve in the army
146. Croupier One who collects the bets and pays out to the winner in the gambling club
147. Curator A person in charge of museum
148. Cutler One who makes or deals in cutting instruments, e.g. knives
149. Ethnologist One well versed in the science of human races
150. Funambulist One who walks on ropes
151. Grazier One who pastures cattle for the market
152. Hawker One who travels from place to place selling miscellaneous articles
153. Huckster One who travels from place to place selling miscellaneous articles
154. Invigilator One who watches over students taking an examination
155. Janitor One who performs tricks by sleight of hands

314
156. Lexicographer One who compiles a dictionary

157. Librarian The person in charge of library
158. Mayor The head of a town council or corporation
159. Novelist One who writes novels
160. Pawnbroker One who lends money and keeps goods as security
161. Peddler One who travels from place to place selling miscellaneous articles
162. Peripatetic A teacher who travels from place to place to give instructions
163. Philatelist One who collects postage stamps
164. Plumassier One who works or deals in feathers for apparel
165. Poet One who writes poetry
166. Potter One who makes pots, cups etc
167. Paltered One who sells fowls, ducks, turkeys etc
168. Prestidigitator One who performs tricks by sleight of hands
169. Principal The head of a college
170. Psychologist One who studies the working of the human-mind
171. Purser An officer in charge of the stores and accounts on a ship
172. Scavenger One who cleans the street
173. Scrivener One who draws up contracts and also lends money on interest
174. Shipwright One who builds ships
175. Shoemaker One who mends shoes
176. Stationer One who sells paper, ink, pen and other writing materials
177. Stenographer One who writes shorthand
178. Stevedore One who loads and unloads ships
179. Tanner One who converts raw hide into leather
180. Taxidermist One who preserves the skin of the animals
181. Teller One who pays out money at a bank
182. Tinker One who goes place to place mending pots
183. Undertaker A tradesman who manages funerals
184. Upholsterer One who makes and sells cushions and covers for motor-cars
185. Usurer One who lends money at an exorbitant rate
186. Veterinarian One skilled in the treatment of diseases of animals
187. Wheelwright One who makes wheels for carriages and carts
Words denoting Professions
188. Admiral The commander of a fleet

189. Archaeologist One who study the past through the objects left behind
190. Architect One who draws and plans the design of the building
191. Astronomer One who studies the stars
192. Aviator One who flies an aero plane
193. Brazier One who works in brass
194. Captain The person in charge of a ship

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
315
195. Chauffeur One who drives a motor-car

196. Chiropodist One skilled in the care of hands and feet
197. Collier One who works in a coal-mine
198. Collier One who works in a coal-mine This
199. Compositor One who sets type for books
200. Cooper One who makes barrels
201. Correspondent One who writes for the newspaper
202. Costermonger One who sells fruits or vegetables
203. Dentist One who attends to the teeth
204. Doctor One who attends to sick people and prescribes medicines
205. Draper One who deals in cloths and other fabrics
206. Draughtsman One who draws plans
207. Drover One who deals in cattle
208. Druggist One who compounds and sells drugs
209. Druggist One who compounds and sells drugs \
210. Engineer One who attends to an engine
211. Farrier One who shoes horses
212. Fishmonger One who deals in fish
213. Florist One who deals in flowers
214. Furrier One who deals in furs
215. Geologist One who studies rocks and soils
216. Glazier One who works in glass
217. Haberdasher One who sells small articles such as ribbons or thread or laces
218. Herbalist One who deals in medicinal herbs
219. Hostler One who looks after horse in an inn
220. Ironmonger One who sells iron and hardware
221. Jockey A professional rider in horse races
222. Journalist One who writes for the newspaper
223. Lapidary One who cuts precious stone
224. Masseur One who treats diseases by rubbing the muscles
225. Mercer One who deals in silk
226. Milliner One who makes and sells ladies hats
227. Obstetrician A physician who assists women in child-birth
228. Oculist One who attends to the diseases of the eye
229. Optician One who tests eyesight and sell spectacles
230. Pharmacist One who compounds and sells drugs
231. Physician One who attends to sick people and prescribes medicines
232. Pilot One who flies an aero plane
233. Plumber One who works mending water pipes
234. Reporter One who writes for the newspaper
235. Sculptor One who carves in stone
236. Stoker One who attends to the fire of steam engine

316
237. Surgeon One who treats disease by performing operations

238. Vintner One who deals in wines
Words denoting Government
239. Aristocracy Government by the nobility

240. Autocracy Government by a sovereign with uncontrolled authority
241. Autonomy The right of self-government
242. Bureaucracy Government by the departments of state
243. Census An official numbering of the population
244. Consort The wife or husband of the king or queen
245. Democracy Government of people of the people, for the people and the people
246. Despotism Government by a sovereign with uncontrolled authority
247. Episcopacy Government of the church by the bishops
248. Hierarchy Government by priests
249. Hagiocracy Government by priests
250. Hierarchy Government by priests or ecclesiastics
251. Interregnum The period between two reigns
252. Aristocracy Government by the worst citizens
253. Oligarchy Government by a few
254. Plutocracy Government by the wealthy
255. Politics The science of Government
256. Referendum To decide the political question by the direct vote of the electorate
257. Regent One who governs the kingdom during the infancy, absence of the sovereign
258. Revolution A radical change in the Government
259. Statistics Facts and figures
260. Stratocracy Government by a military class
261. Theocracy Government by divine guidance
Words denoting Places
262. Abattoir The place where animals slaughtered for the market
263. Aerie The nest of a bird of prey
264. Apiary The place where bees are kept
265. Aquarium The place where fishes are kept
266. Archives The place where the Government records are kept
267. Avenue A wide road lines with trees on both sides
268. Aviary The place where birds are kept
269. Bakery The place where bread and cakes are made
270. Barracks The building for the accommodation of soldiers
271. Booth A covered stall at a fair
272. Boulevard A wide road lines with trees on both sides

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
317
273. Brewery The factory for manufacturing beer

274. Bunker The receptacle for storing coal
275. Burrow The dwelling place for animals underground
276. Butt The large cask for holding wine
277. Byre The shelter for a cow
278. Cabaret The variety show performed in a restaurant
279. Caboose The kitchen in a ship
280. Cache The place where the treasures of arts are hidden
281. Caddy The small box in which tea is kept
282. Cantonment The place where the soldiers are quartered
283. Caravan The shelter of a gipsy
284. Casino The place where gambling is going on
285. Cellar An underground place for storing wine or other provisions
286. Chalet The shelter of a Swiss peasant
287. Church The Christians’ place of worship
288. Convent The residence for nuns
289. Crèche The place where the children are cared for while their parents are at work
290. Creel A basket in which the fishermen puts his fish
291. Cruet The small bottle for holding sauces for the dining table
292. Cul-de-sac The Street only opens at one end
293. Dairy The place where milk is converted into butter and cheese
294. Decanter An ornamental glass for holding wine
295. Den The home of a lion
296. Depot The place where the goods are stored
297. Dispensary The place where medicines are compounded
298. Distillery The place liquors are produced
299. Dock The place where the ships are repaired
300. Dormitory The sleeping room in an institution
301. Dovecot The house or a box in which live pigeons or doves
302. Dower The shelter of an Arab
303. Dray The home for the squirrels
304. Ewer The large jug or pitcher for holding water for the washbasin
305. Erie The nest of a bird of prey
306. Factory The place where the manufacturing is going on
307. Form The house of a hare
308. Galley The kitchen in a ship
309. Garage The place for housing cars
310. Garret The upper room or store immediately under the roof
311. Glyptotheca The room where the sculptures are preserved
312. Granary The place for storing grain
313. Gymnasium The place where the athletic exercises are performed
314. Hangar The place for housing aero planes

318
315. Herbarium The place where the dried plants are kept
316. Hogshead The large cask for holding wine
317. Hospital The place for the treatment f sick people
318. Hostel The house for the residence of the students
319. Hotel The place where the travelers can get lodging
320. Hutch The place where rabbits are kept
321. Igloo The shelter for an Eskimo
322. Incinerator The place the wastages are reduced to ashes
323. Inn The place where the travelers can get lodging
324. Insectariums The places for keeping or breeding insects
325. Kabitka The shelter of the Kirgiz
326. Kennel The place where dogs are housed
327. Kindergarten The school for infants and young children
328. Kraal A Zulu village
329. Laboratory The place where the scientific experiments are conducted
330. Lair The resting place of a wild animal
331. Laundry The place where cloths are washed and ironed
332. Library The place where books are kept
333. Mint The place where the money is coined
334. Monastery The residence for monks or priests
335. Mosque The Muslims’ place of worship
336. Museum The place where the treasures of arts, curiosities etc...are preserved
337. Observatory The place where the astronomical observation are taken
338. Orchard The place where fruit-trees are grown
339. Orphanage The place where the orphans are housed
340. Paddock The place adjoining race-course where the horses are kept for racing
341. Pen The shelter for a cow
342. Portfolio A portable case for holding papers or drawings
343. Quadrangle The square courtyard bounded by buildings
344. Quay The place the ships are loaded or unloaded
345. Refectory The refreshment hall in a monastery
346. Reformatory An institution for reforming the young offenders
347. Reservoir The place where water is collected and stored
348. Resort The place frequented for the reasons of pleasure or health
349. Restaurant The place where the people can get food or refreshment
350. Reticule The lady’s handbag or workbag
351. Scabbard A case in which the blade of a sword is kept
352. Scullery The place where the plates and other utensils are washed up
353. Scuttle The receptacle for storing coal
354. Sheath A case in which the blade of a sword is kept
355. Stable The place where horses are housed
356. Sty The place where pigs are kept

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
319
357. Tannery The place where the leather is tanned

358. Tepee The shelter of an American India
359. Vivarium The place where the animals are kept alive (ZOO)
360. Wigwam The shelter of an American India
Words denoting Marriage
361. Affianced One engaged to be married

362. Alimony Payment of money allowed to wife on legal separation from the husband
363. Banns Proclamation of intended marriage
364. Betrothed One engaged to be married
365. Bigamist One who marries second wife or husband while the first legal spouse is alive
366. Celibate One who vowed to a single or unmarried life
367. Divorce Legal dissolution of marriage of husband and wife
368. Dowry The property that the new wife brings to her husband
369. Elope To run away with lover in order to get married
370. Fiancé One engaged to be married
371. Fiancée One engaged to be married
372. Misogamist A hater of marriage
373. Monogamist One who has only one wife or husband at a time
374. Polyandries Woman who has more than one husband at a time
375. Polygamist Man who has more than one wife at a time
376. Trousseau A bride’s outfit
377. Widow A woman whose husband is dead
378. Widower A man whose wife is dead
379. Asphyxia Death due to deprived of air
380. Autopsy An examination of dead body
381. Bier The frame on which a dead body is conveyed
382. Carcass The dead body of an animal
383. Carrion The decaying flesh of animal
384. Catacombs Underground caves with burying places for the dead
385. Cemetery The place the dead bodies are interred
386. Cenotaph A monument set up for the person who are buried elsewhere
387. Corpse The dead body of human being
388. Cortege The mass for the dead
389. Cremation Disposal of dead body by burning
390. Crypt A vault beneath a church for burial
391. Electrocuted Killed by an electric current
392. Embalm To preserve the dead body from putrefaction
393. Epitaph An inscription on a tomb
394. Euthanasia The practice of putting painlessly to death
395. Exhume To dig up a corpse

320
396. Fratricide The act of killing one’s brother

397. Hearse A vehicle for taking dead body to a cemetery
398. Homicide The act of killing a human being
399. Infanticide Murder of a new-born child (infant)
400. Intestate To die, without leaving a will
401. Legacy The property left to someone by a will
402. Matricide The act of killing one’s mother
403. Mausoleum A very expensive and elaborately built tomb
404. Morgue The place where the dead bodies are placed for identification
405. Mortuary The place where the dead bodies of human beings are temporarily placed
406. Obituary An account in the newspaper about the funeral of the deceased
407. Parricide The act of killing one’s parents
408. Patricide The act of killing one’s father
409. Posthumous Occurring after death
410. Post-mortem An examination of dead body
411. Pyre A pile of wood on which a dead body is burned
412. Regicide The act of killing the king
413. Requiem The mass for the dead
414. Resurrection Rising from the dead
415. Sarcophagus A stone coffin
416. Sororicide The act of killing one’s sister
417. Suicide The act of killing oneself
418. Winding-sheet The cloth which is wrapped round a dead body
419. Ammeter An instrument for measuring electric current
420. Anemometer An instrument for measuring the force or variations of air
421. Barometer An instrument for measuring the pressure of air
422. Binoculars An instrument for viewing distant objects
423. Camera An instrument for taking photographs
424. Gyro graph An instrument for measuring revolutions
425. Litho scope An instrument for distinguishing precious stones
426. Manometer An instrument for measuring gases
427. Metronome An instrument for beating time during musical performance
428. Micrometer An instrument for measuring minute distances
429. Microphone An instrument for increasing the volume of the voice
430. Microscope An instrument for making small objects appear large
431. Periscope An instrument for enabling the persons inside the submarine to see objects above
the surface of the water
432. Seismograph An instrument for detecting earthquake
433. Speedometer An instrument for measuring the speed of the motor-cars and other vehicles
434. Telephone An instrument for transmitting the voice to the distant places
435. Telescope An instrument for seeing distant objects
436. Thermometer An instrument measuring heat or cold

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
321
437. Udometer An instrument for measuring rain
Words denoting Medicine
438. Ambulance A vehicle to carry sick people to the hospital

439. Amputate To cut off a part of person’s body which is infected
440. Anemia Want of blood
441. Anesthetic Ant medicine which produces insensibility
442. Anodyne A medicines which alleviates pain
443. Anopheles The mosquito which transmits malaria
444. Antidote A medicine to counteract poison
445. Antiseptic A substance which destroys or weakens germs
446. Chloroform A substance used in surgery to produce unconsciousness
447. Cicatrices The mark or scar left after the wound is healed
448. Cicatrix The mark or scar left after the wound is healed
449. Cocaine A substance used by a dentist to deaden the gum and nerve
450. Convalescent Gradual recovery from illness
451. Culex The mosquito which transmits filarial
452. Dentifrice The power or paste used to cleanse the teeth
453. Deodorant A substance to keep down evil smells
454. Diagnose To be able to tell the nature of the disease by the symptoms
455. Emetic A medicine for causing vomiting
456. Endemic A disease confined to a particular district or a place
457. Epidemic A disease affecting many persons at the same time and at the same place
458. Fumigate To disinfect by smoke
459. Immune Free or exempt from infection
460. Isolate To place apart to prevent from infecting others
461. Narcotic A medicine for producing sleep
462. Opiate A medicine for producing sleep
463. Panacea A cure for all diseases
464. Pandemic A disease widely epidemic
465. Pathology The science of the diseases of the human-body
466. Prognosis A forecast of the result of a disease
467. Pulmonary Affecting lungs
468. Quarantine Confinement to one place to avoid spreading infections
469. Sporadic A disease affecting widely scattered groups of people
470. Stegomyia The mosquito which transmits yellow fever
471. Stethoscope An instrument used by doctors for listening to the heart-beats
472. Toothpaste The power or paste used to cleanse the teeth
Words denoting Science

322
473. Agriculture The art of tilling the soil

474. Agronomics The Science of land management
475. Anatomy The science of the structure of the human-body
476. Anthropology The study of mankind
477. Archaeology The study of ancient building and prehistoric remains
478. Astrology The art of telling the future by the study of the stars
479. Astronomy The study of all heavenly bodies and the earth in relation to them
480. Astronomy The study of stars
481. Biology The study of living matter
482. Botany The study of plants
483. Calligraphy The art of beautiful hand-writing
484. Chromatics The science of colors
485. Elocution The art of effective speaking
486. Ethnology The science which deals with the varieties of human-kinds
487. Etymology The study of origin and history of words
488. Genealogy The science of family descent
489. Geology The study of rocks and soils
490. Horticulture The art of cultivating and managing gardens
491. Limnology The study of lakes
492. Mathematics The study of numbers
493. Metallurgy The art of metal working
494. Numismatics The study of coins
495. Oology The study of eggs
496. Ornithology The study of birds
497. Orology The study of mountains
498. Paleography The study of ancient writings
499. Philology The study of languages
500. Physiognomy The study of human face
501. Physiology The science which deals with the way in which the human-body works
502. Polytechnic An institution for the education in the Arts and Sciences
503. Psychology The study of the human-mind
504. Pyrotechnics The art of making fire-works
505. Rhetoric The art of elegant speech and writing
506. Surveying The art of measuring lands
507. Taxidermy The art of preserving skins
508. Technology The scientific study of industrial arts
509. Trigonometry The science of triangles
510. Zoology The study of animals
Words denoting Arts/Study

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
323
511. Agriculture The art of tilling the soil

512. Agronomics The Science of land management
513. Anatomy The science of the structure of the human-body
514. Anthropology The study of mankind
515. Archaeology The study of ancient building and prehistoric remains
516. Astrology The art of telling the future by the study of the stars
517. Astronomy The study of all heavenly bodies and the earth in relation to them
518. Astronomy The study of stars
519. Biology The study of living matter
520. Botany The study of plants
521. Calligraphy The art of beautiful hand-writing
522. Chromatics The science of colors
523. Elocution The art of effective speaking
524. Ethnology The science which deals with the varieties of human-kinds
525. Etymology The study of origin and history of words
526. Genealogy The science of family descent
527. Geology The study of rocks and soils
528. Horticulture The art of cultivating and managing gardens
529. Limnology The study of lakes
530. Mathematics The study of numbers
531. Metallurgy The art of metal working
532. Numismatics The study of coins
533. Oology The study of eggs
534. Ornithology The study of birds
535. Orology The study of mountains
536. Paleography The study of ancient writings
537. Philology The study of languages
538. Physiognomy The study of human face
539. Physiology The science which deals with the way in which the human-body works
540. Polytechnic An institution for the education in the Arts and Sciences
541. Psychology The study of the human-mind
542. Pyrotechnics The art of making fire-works
543. Rhetoric The art of elegant speech and writing
544. Surveying The art of measuring lands
545. Taxidermy The art of preserving skins
546. Technology The scientific study of industrial arts
547. Trigonometry The science of triangles
548. Zoology The study of animals
Words denoting Negatives

324
549. Antic A fantastic trick

550. Aphonia Total loss of voice
551. Contumacy Willful resistant to the lawful authority
552. Immortal Unable to die
553. Immovable That which can not be moved
554. Impassable That which can not be passed
555. Impenetrable That which can not be pierced or penetrated
556. Imperishable Enduring for all times
557. Impervious Not admitting the passage of waters
558. Impregnable That which can not be taken by assault
559. Inanimate Not endued with animal life
560. Inaudible That which can not be heard
561. Incombustible Incapable of being burnt
562. Incorrigible Incapable of being redeemed form evil
563. Indelible That which can not be rubbed out
564. Indestructible Incapable of being destroyed
565. Indispensable Absolutely necessary or that which cannot be dispensed with
566. Ineffaceable That which cannot be rubbed out
567. Inevitable That which cannot be prevented or avoided
568. Inexplicable That which can be made plain or understood
569. Infallible Incapable of making errors
570. Inimitable That which cannot be imitated
571. Invincible That which can be conquered
572. Invisible That which cannot be seen
573. Invulnerable That which cannot be wounded or injured
574. Irreducible That which cannot be lessened
575. Irrelevant Not to the point
576. Irreparable That which cannot be repaired or remedied
577. Irreplaceable That which cannot be replaced in case of loss
Words denoting Nature
578. Absorption The process by which the plants take up mineral salts in solution through their
roots.
579. Alluvium Soil washed down or carried away by rivers
580. Amphibious At home equally on land and in water
581. Annual Lasting for a single year
582. Assimilation The process by which the plants manufacture food
583. Biennial Lasting for two years
584. Chlorophyll The green coloring matter in the leaves of plants • Cambium A slimy substance
between wood and bark of a stem
585. Chrysalis The last through which an insect passes before it becomes a perfect insect
586. Core The central part of a fruit

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325
587. Cotyledon The seed-leaves of the embryo

588. Deciduous Trees which lose their leaves annually
589. Dibble An instrument for making holes in the soil for seeds
590. Di-cotyledonous Plants with two seed-leaf e.g. lime
591. Drought Absence of rain for a long time Vocabulary-Nature is the list of words related to
Nature.
592. Embryo That part of the seed which develops into the plant
593. Fauna The animal of a certain region
594. Fertilization The entrance of pollen grains into the ovules in the ovary
595. Flora The plants and other vegetation of a certain region
596. Germ That part of the seed which develops into the plant
597. Germination The process by which the young plant begins to grow
598. Gregarious Living or moving in flocks or herds
599. Hibernation The dormant condition in which the plants and animals pass the winter
600. Humus Soil composed largely of decayed vegetable matter
601. Inflorescence A cluster of flowers on a branch
602. Insecticide A preparation for killing insects
603. Invertebrate An animal without back-bone
604. Kernel That which is in inside of the nuts
605. Marsupials Animals which carry their young in a pouch e.g. kangaroo
606. Mono-cotyledonous Plants with one seed-leaf e.g. corn
607. Mutton The meat of Sheep
608. Naturalist One who studies plants and animal life
609. Offal The parts of animal killed for foods which are rejected waste
610. Ore Rock from which metal is extracted
611. Parasite A plant or animal growing on another
612. Perennial Lasting for many years
613. Plumage That part of the embryo which develops into the stem
614. Pollination The process by which the pollen dust is transferred
615. Quadruped A four-footed animal
616. Radicle That part of the embryo which develops into the root
617. Respiration The process by which the plants and the animals breathe
618. Rhizome A thick underground stem
619. Rodent A gnawing animal e.g. a rat
620. Ruminant A cud-chewing animals (e.g. a cow)
621. Spoor The track of a wild animal
622. Stipules A two leaf-like appendages at the base of few leaves
623. Stomata Tiny opening on the under surface of leaves through which the plants breathe
624. Tendril A spiral shoots of a plant which winds itself round another body for support
625. Transpiration The process by which the plants excess water through their leaves
626. Venison The meat of deer
627. Vertebrate An animal with back-bone

326
Words denoting Characters
628. Accomplice A partner in a crime

629. Alcoholic One who has irresistible desire for alcoholic drinks
630. Alien One who takes refuge in a foreign country
631. Altruist One who devotes his life for the welfare and interests of other people
632. Amateur One who engages in any pursuit for the love of it and not for any gain
633. Ambidexterity One who can use both his hands
634. Antiquary A person who collects things belonging to the ancient times
635. Assassin One who kills political persons
636. Beggar One who goes from placer to place begging alms
637. Bibilioklept One who steals books
638. Cannibals One who feeds on human flesh
639. Canvasser One who tries to get votes for the election-candidate
640. Chaperon One who accompanies a young lady to the public places
641. Charlatan One who pretends to know about everything
642. Coadjutor One who works along with another person
643. Connoisseur One who special skills on judging arts, music etc
644. Conscript One who is compelled by law to serve as a soldier
645. Contemporary One who is living at the same time as another
646. Contortionist An acrobat who bends his body into various shapes
647. Courier A messenger sent in great haste
648. Coxswain One who steers a boat
649. Cynic One who sneers at the believes of his fellow men
650. Demagogue A leader of people who can sway his followers by his oratory
651. Dipsomaniac One who has irresistible desire for alcoholic drinks
652. Eavesdropper One who listens to the conversations of others
653. Egoist One who delights to speak about himself
654. Emissary One sent out on a mission
655. Epicure One devoted to pleasures of eating and drinking
656. Exile One who is banished from his country
657. Fruitarian One who feeds on fruits
658. Fugitive One who runs away from justice
659. Heckler One who worries a candidate for an election by awkward questions
660. Hermit One who retires from society to live a solitary life
661. Host One who entertains others
662. Hostess One who entertains others
663. Hypocrite One who pretends to be what he is not
664. Iconoclast One who breaks images and church ornaments
665. Imposter One who pretends to be what he is not
666. Incendiary One who maliciously set fires to building
667. Ingrate An unthankful person
668. Interpreter One who translates the speaking of others

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327
669. Itinerant One who journeys from place to place

670. Kleptomaniac One who has irresistible tendency to steal
671. Linguist One who knows many languages
672. Martyr One who dies for a noble cause
673. Mendicant One who goes from placer to place begging alms
674. Mimic One who imitates the voice and gestures of others
675. Minion One who becomes the favorite of a distinguished person and serves him
676. Misanthrope A hater of mankind
677. Misanthropist A hater of mankind
678. Misogamist A hater of marriage
679. Misogynist A hater of women
680. Mountebank One who pretends to know about everything
681. Neophyte One new to anything
682. Novice One new to anything
683. Numismatist One who collects coins
684. Obscurant One who is opposed to intellectual progress
685. Optimist One who looks on the bright side of things
686. Orthopedists An authority on pronunciation
687. Pantophagist One who eats all kinds of foods
688. Patriot One who loves his country and serves it
689. Pedant One who makes a display of his learning
690. Pedestrian One who journeys on foot
691. Pessimist One who looks on the dark side of things
692. Philanthropist One who devotes his services for the love of mankind
693. Pilgrim One who journeys to a holy place
694. Predecessor One who has been before in office
695. Prophet One who foretells events
696. Prospector One who searches for minerals and mining sites
697. Protégé One who is under the protection of others
698. Quack One who pretends to know about everything
699. Raconteur An expert at story telling
700. Recluse One who retires from society to live a solitary life
701. Recruit A soldier or a sailor newly enlisted
702. Refugee One who takes refuge in a foreign country
703. Somnambulist One who walks in his sleep
704. Somniloquist One who talks in his sleep
705. Sophist One who’s reasoning is clever but false
706. Successor One who takes over an office after another person
707. Sybarite One given up to luxurious living
708. Teetotaler One who has irresistible desire for alcoholic drinks
709. Tyro One new to anything
710. Valetudinarian A man who is over anxious about his health

328
711. Vegetarian One who eats only vegetable-foods

712. Ventriloquist One who has the art of speaking in such a way that the sounds seem to come from
another person
713. Volunteer One who offers his services of his own free will
714. Voluptuary One given up to sensual pleasures and bodily enjoyment
715. Ward One who is under the protection of others
716. Zoophilist A lover of animals
Words denoting Military
717. Aggression An unprovoked attack by an enemy

718. Alien An illegal foreigner in a country
719. Ammunition Shells, bombs and other destructive items
720. Amnesty A general pardon of offenders
721. Annihilate To reduce to nothing
722. Armistice An agreement to stop fighting
723. Arsenal A place where naval or military weapons are made or stored
724. Bandolier A broad belt worn across the chest with pockets for carrying ammunitions
725. Battalion The main division of an army
726. Bayonet A knife fixed on to the end of a gun
727. Belligerents Nations carrying on warfare
728. Besiege To surround a place with the intention of capturing it
729. Bivouac An encampment in the open air
730. Bivouac To camp in the open air without tent
731. Bulletin Official report on the progress of the war
732. Canteen A place where soldiers can buy drinks and other refreshments
733. Capitulate To surrender to an enemy on agreed terms
734. Casualties The killed or wounded in battle
735. Cavalry Horse-soldiers
736. Commandeer To seize for military use
737. Conscript A person who is forced by the law to become a soldier
738. Conscriptions Compulsory enrolment as soldiers and sailors
739. Contraband Smuggling of goods and engaging in prohibited traffic
740. Convoy A number of ships traveling together under escort for the sake of safety
741. Demobilize To release from army
742. Diplomacy The art of conducting negotiations between nations
743. Embargo An order prohibiting the ships to leave the ports
744. Espionage The act or the practice of spying
745. Evacuate To remove from one place to another to avoid the destruction of war
746. Furlough A soldier’s holiday
747. Fusillade A number of fire arms discharged continuously
748. Garrison A body of soldiers stationed in the fortress to defend it
749. Garrison The fortified fortress

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329
750. Guerilla war An irregular war conducted by scattered bands

751. Infantry Foot-soldiers
752. Intern To keep citizens in confinement
753. Invade To enter another country as an enemy
754. Leave A soldier’s holiday
755. Manoeuvre Movement of ships or troops in order to secure an advantage over the enemy
756. Mobilize To make troops and ships for war services
757. Neutral Taking neither side in a struggle
758. Ordnance Heavy guns and army store-items
759. Parachute An apparatus which opens like an umbrella to enable a person to drop safely from
an aircraft
760. Parole A promise given by the prisoner if given a temporary release
761. Puttees Long cloths bound round the legs of soldiers from ankle to knee
762. Reconnoiter To make an examination of enemy territory
763. Recruit A soldier recently enlisted for services
764. Reveille Music for awakening the soldiers in the morning
765. Salvo The firing of many guns at the same time to mark an occasion
766. Volley A shower of bullets
Words denoting Literature
767. Acrostic A poem in which the first letters of each line, taken in order, form a name or a
sentence
768. Agenda A list of headings to be executed in a meeting
769. Album A book with blank pages for putting pictures etc
770. Alliteration A succession of the same initial letters in a passage
771. Autobiography A record of one’s life written by himself
772. Autograph A person’s own handwriting
773. Axiom A statement which is accepted as true without proof
774. Bibliography A list of books in a library
775. Biography The history of life of a person
776. Caption The heading of the chapter in a book
777. Catalogue A list of books in a library
778. Comedy A humorous play having a happy ending
779. Copyright The exclusive right of an author or his heirs to publish or sell copies of his books
780. Criterion A principle by which anything is judged
781. Dialogue A conversation between two persons
782. Diary A book in which the events of each day are recorded
783. Dictionary A book containing the words of a language with their definitions in an alphabetical
order
784. Directory A book of names and addresses
785. Dirge A mournful song for the dead
786. Dramatist One who writes a play

330
787. Elegy A poem of lamentation especially for the dead

788. Encomium A writing or a speech in praise of a person
789. Encyclopedia A book containing information on all branches of knowledge
790. Enunciate To pronounce the words distinctively
791. Epilogue A short speech by a player at the end of a play
792. Epitome A brief summary of book
793. Erratum An error in printing
794. Eulogy A writing or a speech in praise of a person
795. Excerpt An extract from a book of writing
796. Expurgate To remove the offensive portions from a book
797. Extant Still in use
798. Extempore Delivered without previous preparation
799. Facsimile An exact copy of handwriting or a picture
800. Frontispiece A picture facing the title of the book
801. Gesticulate To make expressive gestures while speaking
802. Glossary A list of explanation for the important words
803. Hackneyed Language that is very much used
804. Harangue A vehement speech indented to excite passions
805. Impromptu Delivered without previous preparation
806. Inventory A list of articles or goods available at a time
807. Jargon Language which is confused
808. Ledger A book of accounts showing debits and credits
809. Lucubration Study by night
810. Manifesto A declaration of plans put forward by a candidate for an election
811. Memoirs A written account, usually in a book form, of the interesting experiences of one’s life
812. Memorandum A note to help the memory
813. Peroration The concluding part of the speech
814. Plagiarism Passing of another author’s works as one’s own
815. Playwright One who writes a play
816. Prologue A short speech by a player at the beginning of a play
817. Soliloquy Speaking to oneself
818. Tragedy A play with sad or tragic end
819. Watermark The trade mark of the maker seen on paper
820. Wiseacre One who pretends to have a great deal of knowledge
Words denoting Miscellaneous
821. Albumen The white part of an egg

822. Alias A name taken on by a person but which is not his real name
823. Alloy A mixture of metals, especially when an inferior metal is mixed with one of richer
metal
824. Amnesia Loss of memory
825. Amulet A thing worn by few people as a charm against evil

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331
826. Aphonic Loss of voice

827. A phony Loss of voice
828. Arraign To bring a person before a court of law to answer a charge leveled against him
829. Awning A covering of canvas, tarpaulin etc. to shade windows and the doors from the sun
830. Baton A stick used by the music conductor or a policeman
831. Bilingual One fluent in two languages
832. Cacography Bad spelling
833. Canopy A rich-covering over the bed in a procession
834. Careen To lay ship on its side in order to clean it
835. Caricature A picture of a person or thing drawn in such a highly exaggerated manner as to
cause laughter
836. Carillon A set of bells so arranged that tunes of songs or hymns can be played on them
837. Carnivorous Living on flesh
838. Casein The part of milk from which cheese is made
839. Chassis The framework of a car
840. Chevron The stripes on the sleeves of policemen in the services to denote their ranks
841. Codicil An appendix to a will
842. Discerptible Capable of being separated or torn asunder
843. Dipsomaniac Irresistible craving for alcoholic drinks
844. Dock An enclosure for prisoners in a courthouse
845. Ductile Capable of being drawn out
846. Effigy The likeness or representation of a person especially on coins or medals
847. Effluent The liquid which comes out from a sewerage tank
848. Embezzle To put one’s use the money of another with which one is entrusted
849. Ephemeral Lasting only for a day
850. Extravagant Wasteful in spending
851. Felloe The whole rim (or one of the segments of the rim) of a wheel
852. Ferrule An iron ring placed at the end of a staff to prevent it from splitting
853. Flotsam Goods found floating after ship wreck
854. Fragile That can be easily broken
855. Gavel The chairman’s hammer
856. Graminivorous Living on grass
857. Gyneolatry Excessive devotion to female sex
858. Herbivorous Living on grass and vegetables
859. Howdah A seat on the back of an elephant
860. Imminent Close at hand
861. Incognito Traveling under a name other than one’s own
862. Indemnify To compensate for loss or damage
863. Insolvent Unable to pays one’s debts
864. Jamboree A joyful gathering of youth groups
865. Jetsam Goods thrown overboard in order to make a ship lighter
866. Layette The outfit of a new born baby

332
867. Malleable Capable of being drawn out

868. Memorize To learn by heart
869. Menu The list of various items to be served at a meal
870. Mercenary Serving for money
871. Miscellaneous Consisting of several kinds
872. Monopoly The exclusive right to buy or sell a commodity
873. Mosaic A picture produced by putting together small pieces of glass or marbles
874. Niche A hollow space in a wall for a statue
875. Nostalgia Home-sickness or sentimental longings for the past
876. Omnivorous Living on both animal flesh and grass
877. Orthography Correct spelling
878. Palisade A fence of stakes or iron, etc
879. Pannier One of pair of baskets slung over the back of a donkey
880. Parsimonious To be over particular about spending of money
881. Petrify To change to stone
882. Piscivorous Living on fish
883. Pulverize To reduce to powder
884. Queue A line of people waiting for something
885. Recipe Directions for preparing certain dishes
886. Roster A list showing the order in which certain persons have to perform their duties
887. Shunting To turn a train on side track
888. Sinecure A job for which one is paid, but which one has few or no duties
889. Skeleton The bony framework of the body
890. Stanchion A bar or pair of bars for confining cattle in a stall
891. Stile Steps to enable one to get over a fence
892. Strop Leather for sharpening razors
893. Ullage The space which for safety is left unfilled in a cask or vessel before it is sealed
894. Valise A leather traveling-bag carried in the hand
895. Verbatim Word for word
896. Versatile Able to adapt oneself to many situations
897. Viaduct A bridge carrying a road across a river or valley
898. Waif A forsaken or neglected child who has no home and spends most of its time on the
streets
899. Winnow To separate the husk form the grain
900. Yolk The yellow part of an egg

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
333
One wormeans
Mania: Mania d substituexcessive
tion _ Maniainterest
_ Phobia or love.
Ablutomania Mania for washing oneself

Aboulomania Pathological indecisiveness
Agromania Intense desire to be in open spaces
Andromania Nymphomania
Anglomania Craze or obsession with England and the English
Anthomania Obsession with flowers
Aphrodisiomania Abnormal sexual interest
Arithmomania Obsessive preoccupation with numbers
Balletomania Abnormal fondness for ballet
Bibliomania Craze for books or reading
Bruxomania Compulsion for grinding teeth
Cacodemomania Pathological belief that one is inhabited by an evil spirit
Catapedamania Obsession with jumping from high places
Chinamania Obsession with collecting china
Choreomania Dancing mania or frenzy
Clinomania Excessive desire to stay in bed
Copromania Obsession with feces
Cytheromania Nymphomania
Dacnomania Obsession with killing
Demonomania Pathological belief that one is possessed by demons
Dinomania Mania for dancing
Dipsomania Abnormal craving for alcohol
Discomania Obsession for disco music
Doramania Obsession with owning furs
Doromania Obsession with giving gifts
Drapetomania Intense desire to run away from home
Dromomania Compulsive longing for travel
Ecdemomania Abnormal compulsion for wandering
Egomania Irrational self-centered attitude or self-worship
Eleutheromania Manic desire for freedom
Empleomania Mania for holding public office
Enosimania Pathological belief that one has sinned
Entheomania Abnormal belief that one is divinely inspired
Epomania Craze for writing epics
Ergasiomania Excessive desire to work; ergomania; workaholism
Erotomania Abnormally powerful sex drive
Etheromania Craving for ether

334
Ethnomania Obsessive devotion to one's own people

Eulogomania Obsessive craze for eulogies
Flagellomania Abnormal enthusiasm for flogging
Florimania Craze for flowers
Francomania Craze or obsession with France and the French
Gallomania Craze or obsession with France and the French
Gamomania Obsession with issuing odd marriage proposals
Graecomania Obsession with Greece and the Greeks; hellenomania
Graphomania Obsession with writing
Gynaecomania Abnormal sexual obsession with women
Habromania Insanity featuring cheerful delusions
Hagiomania Mania for sainthood
Hexametromania Mania for writing in hexameter
Hieromania Pathological religious visions or delusions
Hippomania Obsession with horses
Hydromania Irrational craving for water
Hylomania Excessive tendency towards materialism
Hypermania Severe mania
Hypomania Minor mania
Hysteromania Nymphomania
Iconomania Obsession with icons or portraits
Idolomania Obsession or devotion to idols
Infomania Excessive devotion to accumulating facts
Islomania Craze or obsession for islands
Italomania Obsession with Italy or Italians
Kleptomania Irrational predilection for stealing
Klopemania Kleptomania
Logomania Pathological loquacity
Lypemania Extreme pathological mournfulness
Macromania Delusion that objects are larger than natural size
Megalomania Abnormal tendency towards grand or grandiose behaviour
Melomania Craze for music
Methomania Morbid craving for alcohol
Metromania Insatiable desire for writing verse
Micromania Pathological self-deprecation or belief that one is very small
Monomania Abnormal obsession with a single thought or idea
Morphinomania Habitual craving or desire for morphine
Musomania Obsession with music
Mythomania Lying or exaggerating to an abnormal extent

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335
Narcomania Uncontrollable craving for narcotics

Necromania Sexual obsession with dead bodies; necrophilia
Nosomania Delusion of suffering from a disease
Nostomania Abnormal desire to go back to familiar places
Nymphomania Excessive or crazed sexual desire
Oenomania Obsession or craze for wine
Oligomania Obsession with a few thoughts or ideas
Oniomania Mania for making purchases
Onomamania Mania for names
Onomatomania Irresistible desire to repeat certain words
Onychotillomania Compulsive picking at the fingernails
Opiomania Craving for opium
Opsomania Abnormal love for one kind of food
Orchidomania Abnormal obsession with orchids
Parousiamania Obsession with the second coming of Christ
Pathomania Moral insanity
Peotillomania Abnormal compulsion for pulling on the penis
Phagomania Excessive desire for food or eating
Phaneromania Habit of biting one's nails
Pharmacomania Abnormal obsession with trying drugs
Phonomania Pathological tendency to murder
Photomania Pathological desire for light
Phyllomania Excessive or abnormal production of leaves
Phytomania Obsession with collecting plants
Planomania Abnormal desire to wander and disobey social norms
Plutomania Mania for money
Polemomania Mania for war
Politicomania Mania for politics
Polkamania Craze for polka dancing
Polymania Mania affecting several different mental faculties
Poriomania Abnormal compulsion to wander
Pornomania Obsession with pornography
Potichomania Craze for imitating oriental porcelain
Potomania Abnormal desire to drink alcohol
Pseudomania Irrational predilection for lying
Pteridomania Passion for ferns
Pyromania Craze for starting fires
Rhinotillexomania Compulsive nose picking
Rinkomania Obsession with skating

336
Satyromania Abnormally great male sexual desire; satyriasis

Scribbleomania Obsession with scribbling
Sebastomania Religious insanity
Sitiomania Morbid aversion to food
Sophomania Delusion that one is incredibly intelligent
Squandermania Irrational propensity for spending money wastefully
Stampomania Obsession with stamp-collecting
Syphilomania Pathological belief that one is afflicted with syphilis
Technomania Craze for technology
Teutomania Obsession with Teutonic or German things
Thanatomania Belief that one has been affected by death magic, and resulting illness
Theatromania Craze for going to plays
Theomania Belief that one is a god
Timbromania Craze for stamp collecting
Tomomania Irrational predilection for performing surgery
Toxicomania Morbid craving for poisons
Trichotillomania Neurosis where patient pulls out own hair
Tulipomania Obsession with tulips
Typhomania Delirious state resulting from typhus fever
Typomania Craze for printing one's lucubration
Uranomania Obsession with the idea of divinity
Verbomania Craze for words
Xenomania Inordinate attachment to foreign things
Zoomania Insane fondness for animals

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337
Phobias
A phobia is a type of anxiety disorder defined by a persistent and excessive fear of an object or situation. The phobia
typically results in a rapid onset of fear and is present for more than six months. Below is the list of some most
important Phobias generally asked in exams.
A
1. Ablutophobia - Irrational fear of washing or 29. Anablephobia - Irrational fear of looking up
bathing 30. Ancraophobia - Irrational fear of wind
2. Acarophobia - Irrational fear of itching 31. Androphobia - Irrational fear of men
3. Acerophobia - Irrational fear of sourness 32. Anemophobia - Irrational fear of air drafts or
4. Achluophobia - Irrational fear of darkness wind
5. Acousticophobia - Irrational fear of noise 33. Anginophobia - Irrational fear of angina, choking
6. Acrophobia - Irrational fear of heights or narrowness
7. Aeroacrophobia - Irrational fear of open high 34. Anglophobia - Irrational fear of England, English
places culture, etc
8. Aeronausiphobia - Irrational fear of vomiting 35. Angrophobia - Irrational fear of becoming angry
secondary to airsickness 36. Ankylophobia - Irrational fear of immobility of a
9. Aerophobia - Irrational fear of drafts, air joint
10. Aeruophobia - Irrational fear of flying 37. Anthophobia - Irrational fear of flowers
11. Agliophobia - Irrational fear of pain 38. Anthrophobia - Irrational fear of people
12. Agoraphobia - Irrational fear of open spaces 39. Anthropophobia - Irrational fear of people or
13. Agraphobia - Irrational fear of sexual abuse society
14. Agrizoophobia - Irrational fear of wild animals 40. Antlophobia - Irrational fear of floods
15. Agyrophobia - Irrational fear of streets or 41. Anuptaphobia - Irrational fear of staying single
crossing the street 42. Apeirophobia - Irrational fear of infinity
16. Aichmophobia - Irrational fear of needles or 43. Aphenphosmphobia - Irrational fear of being
pointed objects touched
17. Ailurophobia - Irrational fear of cats 44. Apiphobia - Irrational fear of bees
18. Albuminurophobia - Irrational fear of kidney 45. Apotemnophobia - Irrational fear of persons with
disease amputations
19. Alektorophobia - Irrational fear of chickens 46. Arachibutyrophobia - Irrational fear of peanut
20. Algophobia - Irrational fear of pain butter sticking to the roof of the mouth
21. Alliumphobia - Irrational fear of garlic 47. Arachnophobia - Irrational fear of spiders
22. Allodoxaphobia - Irrational fear of opinions 48. Arithmophobia - Irrational fear of numbers
23. Altophobia - Irrational fear of heights 49. Arrhenphobia - Irrational fear of men
24. Amathophobia - Irrational fear of dust 50. Arsonphobia - Irrational fear of fire
25. Amaxophobia - Irrational fear of riding in a car, 51. Asthenophobia - Irrational fear of fainting or
or vehicles weakness
26. Ambulophobia - Irrational fear of walking 52. Astraphobia - Irrational fear of thunder and
27. Amnesiphobia - Irrational fear of amnesia lightning
28. Amychophobia - Irrational fear of scratches or 53. Astrophobia - Irrational fear of stars and celestial
being scratched space

338
54. Asymmetriphobia - Irrational fear of

asymmetrical things
C
55. Ataxiophobia - Irrational fear of ataxia (muscular 89. Cacophobia - Irrational fear of ugliness
in coordination) 90. Cainophobia - Irrational fear of newness, novelty
56. Ataxophobia - Irrational fear of disorder or 91. Caligynephobia - Irrational fear of beautiful
untidiness women
57. Atelophobia - Irrational fear of imperfection 92. Carcinophobia - Irrational fear of cancer
58. Atephobia - Irrational fear of ruin or ruins 93. Cardiophobia - Irrational fear of the heart
59. Athazagoraphobia - Irrational fear of being 94. Carnophobia - Irrational fear of meat
forgotten or ignored 95. Catagelophobia - Irrational fear of being ridiculed
60. Atomosophobia - Irrational fear of atomic 96. Catapedaphobia - Irrational fear of jumping from
explosions high and low places
61. Atychiphobia - Irrational fear of failure 97. Cathisophobia - Irrational fear of sitting
62. Aulophobia - Irrational fear of flutes 98. Catoptrophobia - Irrational fear of mirrors
63. Aurophobia - Irrational fear of gold 99. Cenophobia - Irrational fear of new things or
64. Auroraphobia - Irrational fear of northern lights ideas
65. Autodysomophobia - Irrational fear of one that 100. Ceraunophobia - Irrational fear of thunder
has a vile odor 101. Chaetophobia - Irrational fear of hair
66. Automatonophobia - Irrational fear of 102. Cheimaphobia or cheimatophobia - Irrational
ventriloquist dummies or wax statues fear of cold
67. Automysophobia - Irrational fear of being dirty 103. Chemophobia - Irrational fear of chemicals
68. Autophobia - Irrational fear of being alone or of 104. Cherophobia - Irrational fear of gaiety
oneself 105. Chionophobia - Irrational fear of snow
69. Aviophobia - Irrational fear of flying 106. Chiraptophobia - Irrational fear of being touched
107. Cholerophobia - Irrational fear of anger
B 108. Chorophobia - Irrational fear of dancing
70. Bacillophobia - Irrational fear of microbes 109. Chrometophobia - Irrational fear of money
71. Bacteriophobia - Irrational fear of bacteria 110. Chromophobia - Irrational fear of colors
72. Bactrachophobia - Irrational fear of reptiles 111. Chronomentrophobia - Irrational fear of clocks
73. Ballistophobia - Irrational fear of missiles or 112. Chronophobia - Irrational fear of time
bullets 113. Cibophobia - Irrational fear of food
74. Barophobia - Irrational fear of gravity 114. Claustrophobia - Irrational fear of enclosed
75. Basophobia - Irrational fear of inability to stand spaces
76. Bathophobia - Irrational fear of depth 115. Cleisiophobia - Irrational fear of being locked in
77. Batonophobia - Irrational fear of plants 116. Cleptophobia - Irrational fear of stealing
78. Batophobia - Irrational fear of heights 117. Climacophobia - Irrational fear of stairs
79. Batrachophobia - Irrational fear of amphibians 118. Clinophobia - Irrational fear of going to bed
80. Belonephobia - Irrational fear of pins and 119. Clithrophobia - Irrational fear of being enclosed
needles 120. Cnidophobia - Irrational fear of stings
81. Bibliophobia - Irrational fear of books 121. Coimetrophobia - Irrational fear of cemeteries
82. Blennophobia - Irrational fear of slime 122. Cometophobia - Irrational fear of comets
83. Bogyphobia - Irrational fear of the bogeyman 123. Contreltophobia - Irrational fear of sexual abuse
84. Bolshephobia - Irrational fear of Bolsheviks 124. Coprastasophobia - Irrational fear of
85. Botanophobia - Irrational fear of plants constipation
86. Bromidrosiphobia - Irrational fear of body smells 125. Coprophobia - Irrational fear of feces
87. Brontophobia - Irrational fear of thunder and 126. Coulrophobia - Irrational fear of clowns
lightning 127. Cremnophobia - Irrational fear of precipices
88. Bufonophobia - Irrational fear of toads 128. Cryophobia - Irrational fear of extreme cold, ice
or frost

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
339
129. Crystallophobia - Irrational fear of crystals or 160. Eisoptrophobia - Irrational fear of mirrors or
glass seeing oneself in a mirror
130. Cyberphobia - Irrational fear of computers or 161. Electrophobia - Irrational fear of electricity
working on a computer 162. Eleutherophobia - Irrational fear of freedom
131. Cyclophobia - Irrational fear of bicycles 163. Elurophobia - Irrational fear of cats
132. Cymophobia - Irrational fear of waves or wave (Ailurophobia)
like motions 164. Emetophobia - Irrational fear of vomiting
133. Cynophobia - Irrational fear of dogs 165. Enetophobia - Irrational fear of pins
D 166. Enochlophobia - Irrational fear of crowds
167. Enosiophobia - Irrational fear of committing an
134. Decidophobia - Irrational fear of making unpardonable sin
decisions 168. Entomophobia - Irrational fear of insects
135. Defecaloesiophobia - Irrational fear of painful 169. Eosophobia - Irrational fear of dawn or daylight
bowel movements 170. Epistaxiophobia - Irrational fear of nosebleeds
136. Deipnophobia - Irrational fear of dining 171. Epistemophobia - Irrational fear of knowledge
137. Dementophobia - Irrational fear of insanity 172. Equinophobia - Irrational fear of horses
138. Demonophobia - Irrational fear of demons 173. Eremophobia - Irrational fear of being oneself
139. Demophobia - Irrational fear of crowds 174. Ereuthrophobia - Irrational fear of blushing
(Agoraphobia) 175. Ergasiophobia - Irrational fear of surgical
140. Dendrophobia - Irrational fear of trees instruments
141. Dentophobia - Irrational fear of dentists 176. Ergophobia - Irrational fear of work
142. Dermatophobia - Irrational fear of skin lesions 177. Erotophobia - Irrational fear of sexual love
143. Dermatosiophobia - Irrational fear of skin 178. Erythrophobia - Irrational fear of the color red
disease 179. Euphobia - Irrational fear of hearing good news
144. Dextrophobia - Irrational fear of objects at the 180. Eurotophobia - Irrational fear of female genitalia
right side of the body
145. Diabetophobia - Irrational fear of diabetes F
146. Didaskaleinophobia - Irrational fear of going to 181. Febriphobia - Irrational fear of fever
school 182. Felinophobia - Irrational fear of cats
147. Dikephobia - Irrational fear of justice 183. Francophobia - Irrational fear of France, French
148. Dinophobia - Irrational fear of dizziness culture
149. Diplophobia - Irrational fear of double vision 184. Frigophobia - Irrational fear of cold
150. Dipsophobia - Irrational fear of drinking
151. Dishabiliophobia - Irrational fear of undressing in
G
front of someone 185. Galeophobia - Irrational fear of cats
152. Domatophobia - Irrational fear of houses or 186. Gallophobia Or galiophobia - Irrational fear of
being in a house fear France, French culture
153. Doraphobia - Irrational fear of fur or skins of 187. Gamophobia - Irrational fear of marriage
animals 188. Gatophobia - Irrational fear of cats
154. Dromophobia - Irrational fear of crossing streets 189. Geliophobia - Irrational fear of laughter
155. Dutchphobia - Irrational fear of the Dutch 190. Geniophobia - Irrational fear of chins
156. Dysmorphophobia - Irrational fear of deformity 191. Genophobia - Irrational fear of sex
157. Dystychiphobia - Irrational fear of accidents 192. Genuphobia - Irrational fear of knees
193. Gephyrophobia - Irrational fear of crossing
E bridges
158. Ecclesiophobia - Irrational fear of church 194. Gerascophobia - Irrational fear of growing old
159. Eicophobia - Irrational fear of home 195. Germanophobia - Irrational fear of Germany,
surroundings German culture

340
196. Gerontophobia - Irrational fear of old people or of 233. Hypegiaphobia - Irrational fear of responsibility
growing old 234. Hypnophobia - Irrational fear of sleep
197. Geumaphobia - Irrational fear of taste 235. Hypsiphobia - Irrational fear of height
198. Glossophobia - Irrational fear of speaking in
public
I
199. Gnosiophobia - Irrational fear of knowledge 236. Iatrophobia - Irrational fear of doctors
200. Graphophobia - Irrational fear of writing 237. Ichthyophobia - Irrational fear of fish
201. Gymnophobia - Irrational fear of nudity 238. Ideophobia - Irrational fear of ideas
202. Gynophobia - Irrational fear of women 239. Illyngophobia - Irrational fear of vertigo
240. Insectophobia - Irrational fear of insects
H 241. Iophobia - Irrational fear of poison
203. Hadephobia - Irrational fear of hell 242. Isolophobia - Irrational fear of solitude, being
204. Hagiophobia - Irrational fear of saints or holy alone
things 243. Isopterophobia - Irrational fear of termites
205. Hamartophobia - Irrational fear of sinning 244. Ithyphallophobia - Irrational fear of erection
206. Haphephobia - Irrational fear of being touched
207. Harpaxophobia - Irrational fear of being robbed
J
208. Hedonophobia - Irrational fear of feeling 245. Japanophobia - Irrational fear of Japanese
pleasure 246. Judeophobia - Irrational fear of Jews
209. Heliophobia - Irrational fear of the sun K
210. Hellenologophobia - Irrational fear of Greek 247. Kainolophobia - Irrational fear of novelty
terms 248. Kakorraphiaphobia - Irrational fear of failure
211. Helminthophobia - Irrational fear of worms 249. Katagelophobia - Irrational fear of ridicule
212. Hemophobia - Irrational fear of blood 250. Kathisophobia - Irrational fear of sitting down
213. Herpetophobia - Irrational fear of reptiles 251. Kenophobia - Irrational fear of voids
214. Heterophobia - Irrational fear of the opposite sex 252. Keraunophobia - Irrational fear of thunder
(sexophobia) 253. Kinetophobia - Irrational fear of movement or
215. Hierophobia - Irrational fear of priests motion
216. Hippophobia - Irrational fear of horses 254. Kleptophobia - Irrational fear of stealing
217. Hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia - 255. Koinoniphobia - Irrational fear of rooms
Irrational fear of long words 256. Koniophobia - Irrational fear of dust
218. Hobophobia - Irrational fear of bums or beggars (Amathophobia)
219. Hodophobia - Irrational fear of road travel 257. Kopophobia - Irrational fear of fatigue
220. Homichlophobia - Irrational fear of fog 258. Kosmikophobia - Irrational fear of cosmic
221. Homilophobia - Irrational fear of sermons phenomenon
222. Hominophobia - Irrational fear of men 259. Kymophobia - Irrational fear of waves
223. Homophobia - Irrational fear of homosexuality 260. Kynophobia - Irrational fear of rabies
224. Hoplophobia - Irrational fear of firearms 261. Kyphophobia - Irrational fear of stooping
225. Hormephobia - Irrational fear of shock
226. Hydrargyophobia - Irrational fear of mercurial L
medicines 262. Lachanophobia - Irrational fear of vegetables
227. Hydrophobia - Irrational fear of water 263. Laliophobia - Irrational fear of speaking
228. Hydrophobophobia - Irrational fear of rabies 264. Leprophobia - Irrational fear of leprosy
229. Hyelophobia Or hyalophobia - Irrational fear of 265. Leukophobia - Irrational fear of the color white
glass 266. Levophobia - Irrational fear of things to the left
230. Hygrophobia - Irrational fear of liquids, side of the body
dampness, or moisture 267. Ligyrophobia - Irrational fear of loud noises
231. Hylephobia - Irrational fear of materialism 268. Lilapsophobia - Irrational fear of tornadoes and
232. Hylophobia - Irrational fear of forests hurricanes

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
341
269. Limnophobia - Irrational fear of lakes 306. Mottephobia - Irrational fear of moths
270. Linonophobia - Irrational fear of string 307. Musophobia - Irrational fear of mice
271. Liticaphobia - Irrational fear of lawsuits 308. Mycophobia - Irrational fear of fear or aversion
272. Lockiophobia - Irrational fear of childbirth to mushrooms
273. Logizomechanophobia - Irrational fear of 309. Mycrophobia - Irrational fear of small things
computers 310. Myctophobia - Irrational fear of darkness
274. Logophobia - Irrational fear of words 311. Myrmecophobia - Irrational fear of ants
275. Luiphobia - Irrational fear of syphilis 312. Mysophobia - Irrational fear of germs or
276. Lutraphobia - Irrational fear of otters contamination or dirt
277. Lygophobia - Irrational fear of darkness 313. Mythophobia - Irrational fear of myths or stories
278. Lyssophobia - Irrational fear of rabies or of or false statements
becoming mad 314. Myxophobia - Irrational fear of slime
M (blennophobia)
279. Macrophobia - Irrational fear of long waits N
280. Mageirocophobia - Irrational fear of cooking 315. Nebulaphobia - Irrational fear of fog
281. Maieusiophobia - Irrational fear of childbirth (homichlophobia)
282. Malaxophobia - Irrational fear of love play 316. Necrophobia - Irrational fear of death
283. Maniaphobia - Irrational fear of insanity 317. Nelophobia - Irrational fear of glass
284. Mastigophobia - Irrational fear of punishment 318. Neopharmaphobia - Irrational fear of new drugs
285. Mechanophobia - Irrational fear of machines 319. Neophobia - Irrational fear of anything new
286. Megalophobia - Irrational fear of large things 320. Nephophobia - Irrational fear of clouds
287. Melanophobia - Irrational fear of the color black 321. Noctiphobia - Irrational fear of the night
288. Melissophobia - Irrational fear of bees 322. Nomatophobia - Irrational fear of names
289. Melophobia - Irrational fear of fear or hatred of 323. Nosemaphobia - Irrational fear of illness
music 324. Nosocomephobia - Irrational fear of hospitals
290. Meningitophobia - Irrational fear of brain disease 325. Nosophobia - Irrational fear of disease
291. Menophobia - Irrational fear of menstruation 326. Nostophobia - Irrational fear of returning home
292. Merinthophobia - Irrational fear of being bound 327. Novercaphobia - Irrational fear of step-mothers
or tied up 328. Nucleomituphobia - Irrational fear of nuclear
293. Metallophobia - Irrational fear of metal weapons
294. Metathesiophobia - Irrational fear of changes 329. Nudophobia - Irrational fear of nudity
295. Meteorophobia - Irrational fear of meteors 330. Numerophobia - Irrational fear of numbers
296. Methyphobia - Irrational fear of alcohol 331. Nyctophobia - Irrational fear of the dark or of
297. Metrophobia - Irrational fear of fear or hatred of night
298.
poetry
Microbiophobia - Irrational fear of microbes
O
(bacillophobia) 332. Obesophobia - Irrational fear of gaining weight
299. Microphobia - Irrational fear of small things 333. Ochlophobia - Irrational fear of crowds or mobs
300. Misophobia - Irrational fear of being 334. Ochophobia - Irrational fear of vehicles
contaminated with dirt of germs 335. Octophobia - Irrational fear of the figure 8
301. Mnemophobia - Irrational fear of memories 336. Odontophobia - Irrational fear of dental surgery
302. Molysmophobia - Irrational fear of dirt or 337. Odynophobia - Irrational fear of pain
contamination 338. Oenophobia - Irrational fear of wines
303. Monopathophobia - Irrational fear of definite 339. Oikophobia - Irrational fear of home
disease surroundings, house
304. Monophobia - Irrational fear of solitude or being 340. Olfactophobia - Irrational fear of smells
alone 341. Ombrophobia - Irrational fear of rain
305. Motorphobia - Irrational fear of automobiles 342. Ommetaphobia - Irrational fear of eyes

342
343. Oneirogmophobia - Irrational fear of wet dreams 383. Phengophobia - Irrational fear of daylight or
344. Oneirophobia - Irrational fear of dreams sunshine
345. Onomatophobia - Irrational fear of hearing a 384. Philemaphobia - Irrational fear of kissing
certain word 385. Philophobia - Irrational fear of falling in love
346. Ophidiophobia - Irrational fear of snakes 386. Philosophobia - Irrational fear of philosophy
347. Ophthalmophobia - Irrational fear of being stared 387. Phobophobia - Irrational fear of one's own fears
at 388. Phonophobia - Irrational fear of noises or voices
348. Optophobia - Irrational fear of opening one's 389. Photoaugliaphobia - Irrational fear of glaring
eyes lights
349. Ornithophobia - Irrational fear of birds 390. Photophobia - Irrational fear of light
350. Orthophobia - Irrational fear of property 391. Phronemophobia - Irrational fear of thinking
351. Osmophobia - Irrational fear of smells or odors 392. Phthiriophobia - Irrational fear of lice
352. Osphresiophobia - Irrational fear of smells (pediculophobia)
353. Ostraconophobia - Irrational fear of shellfish 393. Phthisiophobia - Irrational fear of tuberculosis
354. Ouranophobia - Irrational fear of heaven 394. Pinigerophobia - Irrational fear of smothering
P 395. Placophobia - Irrational fear of tombstones
396. Plutophobia - Irrational fear of wealth
355. Pagophobia - Irrational fear of ice or frost 397. Pluviophobia - Irrational fear of rain or of being
356. Panophobia - Irrational fear of everything rained on
357. Panthophobia - Irrational fear of disease 398. Pneumatiphobia - Irrational fear of spirits
358. Pantophobia - Irrational fear of fears 399. Pnigophobia - Irrational fear of choking or being
359. Papaphobia - Irrational fear of the pope smothered
360. Papyrophobia - Irrational fear of paper 400. Pocrescophobia - Irrational fear of gaining weight
361. Paralipophobia - Irrational fear of neglecting duty (obesophobia)
362. Paraphobia - Irrational fear of sexual perversion 401. Pogonophobia - Irrational fear of beards
363. Parasitophobia - Irrational fear of parasites 402. Poinephobia - Irrational fear of punishment
364. Paraskavedekatriaphobia - Irrational fear of 403. Poliosophobia - Irrational fear of contracting
Friday the 13th poliomyelitis
365. Parthenophobia - Irrational fear of virgins or 404. Politicophobia - Irrational fear of politicians
young girls 405. Polyphobia - Irrational fear of many things
366. Parturiphobia - Irrational fear of childbirth 406. Ponophobia - Irrational fear of overworking or of
367. Pathophobia - Irrational fear of disease pain
368. Patroiophobia - Irrational fear of heredity 407. Porphyrophobia - Irrational fear of the color
369. Peccatophobia - Irrational fear of sinning purple
(imaginary crime) 408. Potamophobia - Irrational fear of rivers or
370. Pediculophobia - Irrational fear of lice running water
371. Pediophobia - Irrational fear of dolls 409. Potophobia - Irrational fear of alcohol
372. Pedophobia - Irrational fear of children 410. Proctophobia - Irrational fear of rectum
373. Peladophobia - Irrational fear of bald people 411. Prosophobia - Irrational fear of progress
374. Pellagrophobia - Irrational fear of pellagra 412. Psellismophobia - Irrational fear of stuttering
375. Peniaphobia - Irrational fear of poverty 413. Psychophobia - Irrational fear of mind
376. Pentheraphobia - Irrational fear of mother-in-law 414. Psychrophobia - Irrational fear of cold
377. Phagophobia - Irrational fear of swallowing 415. Pteromerhanophobia - Irrational fear of flying
378. Phalacrophobia - Irrational fear of becoming bald 416. Pteronophobia - Irrational fear of being tickled by
379. Phallophobia - Irrational fear of a penis, esp erect feathers
380. Pharmacophobia - Irrational fear of drugs 417. Pupaphobia - Irrational fear of puppets
381. Pharmacophobia - Irrational fear of taking pyrexiophobia
medicine 418. Pyrophobia - Irrational fear of fire
382. Phasmophobia - Irrational fear of ghosts

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
343
R 455. Soteriophobia - Irrational fear of dependence on

others
419. Radiophobia - Irrational fear of radiation, x-rays 456. Spacephobia - Irrational fear of outer space
420. Ranidaphobia - Irrational fear of frogs 457. Spectrophobia - Irrational fear of specters or
421. Rhabdophobia - Irrational fear of being severely ghosts
punished or beaten by a rod 458. Spermophobia - Irrational fear of germs
422. Rhypophobia - Irrational fear of defecation 459. Sphexsophobia - Irrational fear of wasps
423. Rhytiphobia - Irrational fear of getting wrinkles 460. Stasibasiphobia - Irrational fear of standing or
424. Rupophobia - Irrational fear of dirt walking
425. Russophobia - Irrational fear of Russians 461. Staurophobia - Irrational fear of crosses or the
S crucifix
426. Samhainophobia - Irrational fear of Halloween 462. Stenophobia - Irrational fear of narrow things or
427. Sarmassophobia - Irrational fear of love play places
428. Satanophobia - Irrational fear of satan 463. Stygiophobia - Irrational fear of hell
429. Scabiophobia - Irrational fear of scabies 464. Suriphobia - Irrational fear of mice
430. Scelerophibia - Irrational fear of bad men, 465. Symbolophobia - Irrational fear of symbolism
burglars 466. Symmetrophobia - Irrational fear of symmetry
431. Schlionophobia - Irrational fear of school 467. Syngenesophobia - Irrational fear of relatives
432. Sciophobia - Irrational fear of shadows 468. Syphilophobia - Irrational fear of syphilis
433. Scoleciphobia - Irrational fear of worms T
434. Scolionophobia - Irrational fear of school 469. Tachophobia - Irrational fear of speed
435. Scopophobia - Irrational fear of being stared at 470. Taeniophobia Or teniophobia - Irrational fear of
436. Scotomaphobia - Irrational fear of blindness in tapeworms
visual field 471. Taphephobia - Irrational fear of being buried
437. Scotophobia - Irrational fear of darkness alive
438. Scriptophobia - Irrational fear of writing in public 472. Tapinophobia - Irrational fear of being
439. Selaphobia - Irrational fear of light flashes contagious
440. Selenophobia - Irrational fear of the moon 473. Taurophobia - Irrational fear of bulls
441. Seplophobia - Irrational fear of decaying matter 474. Technophobia - Irrational fear of technology
442. Sesquipedalophobia - Irrational fear of long 475. Teleophobia - Irrational fear of definate plans
words 476. Telephonophobia - Irrational fear of telephones
443. Sexophobia - Irrational fear of the opposite sex 477. Telosphobia - Irrational fear of being last
444. Siderodromophobia - Irrational fear of trains 478. Teratophobia - Irrational fear of bearing a
445. Siderophobia - Irrational fear of stars deformed child
446. Sinistrophobia - Irrational fear of left- 479. Testophobia - Irrational fear of taking tests
handedness 480. Tetanophobia - Irrational fear of lockjaw, tetanus
447. Sinophobia - Irrational fear of chinese, chinese 481. Teutophobia - Irrational fear of German or
culture German things
448. Sitophobia - Irrational fear of food or eating 482. Textophobia - Irrational fear of certain fabrics
449. Snakephobia - Irrational fear of snakes 483. Thaasophobia - Irrational fear of sitting
(ophidiophobia) 484. Thalassophobia - Irrational fear of the ocean
450. Soceraphobia - Irrational fear of parents-in-law 485. Thanatophobia - Irrational fear of death or dying
451. Social Phobia - Irrational fear of being evaluated 486. Theatrophobia - Irrational fear of theatres
negatively 487. Theologicophobia - Irrational fear of theology
452. Sociophobia - Irrational fear of society 488. Theophobia - Irrational fear of god(s) or religion
453. Somniphobia - Irrational fear of sleep 489. Thermophobia - Irrational fear of heat
454. Sophophobia - Irrational fear of learning 490. Tocophobia - Irrational fear of childbirth

344
491. Tomophobia - Irrational fear of surgical 507. Venustraphobia - Irrational fear of beautiful
operations women
492. Tonitrophobia - Irrational fear of thunder 508. Verbophobia - Irrational fear of words
493. Topophobia - Irrational fear of performing (stage 509. Verminophobia - Irrational fear of germs
fright) 510. Vestiphobia - Irrational fear of clothing
494. Toxiphobia - Irrational fear of poison 511. Virginitiphobia - Irrational fear of rape
495. Traumatophobia - Irrational fear of injury 512. Vitricophobia - Irrational fear of step-fathers
496. Tremophobia - Irrational fear of trembling
497. Trichinophobia - Irrational fear of trichinosis
W
498. Trichopathophobia - Irrational fear of hair 513. Walloonphobia - Irrational fear of the Walloons
499. Triskaidekaphobia - Irrational fear of the number 514. Wiccaphobia - Irrational fear of witches and
13 witchcraft
500. Tropophobia - Irrational fear of moving or X
making changes 515. Xanthophobia - Irrational fear of the color yellow
501. Trypanophobia - Irrational fear of injections 516. Xenophobia - Irrational fear of strangers
502. Tuberculophobia - Irrational fear of tuberculosis 517. Xerophobia - Irrational fear of dryness
503. Tyrannophobia - Irrational fear of tyrants 518. Xylophobia - Irrational fear of forests
U Z
504. Uranophobia - Irrational fear of heaven 519. Zelophobia - Irrational fear of jealousy
505. Urophobia - Irrational fear of urine or urinating 520. Zemmiphobia - Irrational fear of the great mole
V rat
506. Vaccinophobia - Irrational fear of vaccination 521. Zeusophobia - Irrational fear of God or gods
522. Zoophobia - Irrational fear of animals

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
345
Exam oriented list of One word substitution

Exam
Exam Oriented ListofofOne
One
Word
oriented list
Substitution
word substitution 12
 One who has become dependent on something  One who can think about the future with
or drugs - Addict imagination and wisdom - Visionary
 Fear of being enclosed in small closed space  Give and receive mutually - Reciprocate
- Claustrophobia  A building where an audience sits - Auditorium
 Call upon God or any other power (like law) for  The first model of a new device - Prototype
help or protection - Invocation  Tough tissues in joints - Ligaments
 Severely abusive writing in journals - Scurrilous  The study of maps - Cartography
 A person who opposes war or use of military  A person who breaks into houses in order to
force - Pacifist steal - Burglar
 Stealthily done (something done in a quiet and  The study of the origin and history of words
secret way in order to avoid being noticed) - Etymology
- Surreptitious  One who can walk on ropes (tightrope walker)
 A person with a long experience of any - Funambulist
occupation - Veteran  One who goes to settle in another country
 Something capable of being done - Feasible - Emigrant
 A person who is unable to pay debts - Insolvent  Constant efforts to achieve something
 A short poem or speech addressed to the - Perseverance
spectators after the conclusion of drama  A person who believes in total abolition of war
- Epilogue - Pacifist
 Act of deceiving somebody in order to make  A four footed animal - Quadruped
money - Fraud  Ready to believe anything - Credulous
 Flat metal or Porcelain plate fixed on a wall as  That which lasts for a short time - Transitory
an ornament or memorial - Plaque  A body of persons appointed to hear evidence
 To cut something into two pieces - Sever or judge and give their verdict (decision) - Jury
 Succession of rulers belonging to one family -  The essential or characteristic customs, habits
Dynasty and conventions of a society or community
 To seize control of a vehicle in order to force it - Mores
to go to a new destination or demand  A system of Government in which only one
something - Hijack political party is allowed to function
 Lasting only for a moment - Momentary - Totalitarianism
 The practice or art of choosing, cooking, and  One who collects coins - Numismatist
eating good food - Gastronomy  Violation of something holy or sacred
 Killing of a child - Infanticide - Sacrilege
 One who believes in offering equal  A broad road bordered with trees - Boulevard
opportunities to women in all spheres  Animals who live in herds - Gregarious
- Feminist  The murder of parents or near relative
 One who studies election trend by means of - Parricide
opinion polls - Psephologist  A mild or indirect expression substituted for an
 A doctor who treats children – Paediatrician offensive or harsh one - Euphemism
 One who believes in no government and
therefore incites disorder in a state - Anarchist

346
 One who secretly listens to talks of others  A woman having more than one husband at the
- Eavesdropper same time - Polyandry
 Science of diseases - Pathology  A den for small animals - Hutch
 One who is beyond reforms - Incorrigible  To take back, withdraw or renounce - Recant
 Concluding part of a literary work - Epilogue  The habit of always admiring oneself
 The act of killing whole group of people, - Narcissism
especially a whole race - Genocide  One who intervenes between two or more
 One who stays away from school or work parties to settle difference - Intermediary
without permission - Truant  One who deserts his principle or believes
 A person without training or experience in a - Renegade
skill or subject - Novice  Property handled down after the death of a
 Dissection of a dead body to find the cause of person - Inheritance
the death - Autopsy  One who breaks the established traditions and
 The study of religion and religious ideas and image - Iconoclast
beliefs - Theology  One who believes in that gaining pleasure is
 A place where Jews worship according to their the most important thing in life - Hedonist
religion - Synagogue  Building in which a dead body is kept for a time
 An area of land that is controlled by a ruler - Mortuary
- Dominion  Experts in the scientific study of birds
 One who is greedy - Voracious - Ornithology
 Simple, fast-spreading plant without flowers or  Placing a thing besides another - Juxtapose
leaves, which can often cause disease  One who does not follow the usual way of life
- Fungus - Bohemian
 Dry weather with no rainfall - Drought  The first public speech delivered by a person
 Too much official formality - Red-tapism - Maiden speech
 Living together of a man and woman without  Wild and noisy disorder - Pandemonium
being married to each other - Concubinage  General view of person’s character - Profile
 A place where government / public records are  A person who is in his seventies
kept - Archive - Septuagenarian
 A place where all religions are honoured  Military waking up signals in the morning
- Secular - Reveille
 Excessive preoccupation with one’s health  The sound of the funeral bell - Knell
- Hypochondriac  One who has obstinate and narrow religious
 Without risk of punishment - Impunity views - Bigot
 Deep in thought - Pensive  One who loves books - Bibliophile
 A jocular person who is full of amusing  Causing or ending in death - Fatal
anecdotes - Wag  A group of girls - Bevy
 A sly look that is lustful - Leer  Belief that war and violence are unjustified
 Irresistible craving for alcoholic drinks - Pacifism
- Dipsomania  A wall built to prevent the sea or a river from
 A hater of mankind - Misanthrope flooding an area - Dyke
 Something that is poisonous and unhealthy  A specialist who tests eyesight - Optometrist
- Toxic  Commencement of adjacent words with the
 The worship of idols or images - Idolatry same letter - Alliteration
 A place where nuns live and work - Convent  One who walks in sleep - Somnambulist
 One who destroys images or attacks popular  A government by officials - Bureaucracy
beliefs - Iconoclast  Of very bad morals / characterized by
 Feeding on food made of both plant and flesh debasement or degeneration - Depraved
- Omnivorous

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347
 Body of a human being or animal embalmed - Internment

for burial - Mummy  One who criticizes popular beliefs which he
 Something which cannot be believed thinks is mistaken or unwise - Iconoclast
- Incredible  Impossible to describe - Ineffable
 The abandonment of one’s country and cause  An underhand device resorted to in order to
- Defection justify misconduct - Manoeuvre
 Treatment by means of exercise and massage  The animals of a particular region - Fauna
- Physiotherapy  An emolument over and above fixed salary
 Bitter and violent attack in words against - Perquisite
someone or something - Diatribe  An unexpected piece of good fortune - Windfall
 Motion of heads, hands etc., as a mode of  Clues available at the scene - Circumstantial
expression indicating attitude - Gesture  One hides away in a ship or passenger vehicle
 To be biased against someone or something to obtain a free passage - Stowaway
- Prejudice  One who is a citizen not of a country but of the
 A person who never takes alcoholic drinks world - Cosmopolitan
- Teetotaler  Circular building or hall with a dome - Rotunda
 A tank where fish or water plants are kept  The use of many words where only a few are
- Aquarium necessary - Circumlocution
 A person devoted to sensual enjoyment,  A continuous process of change is known as
especially that derived from fine food and drink - Flux
- Epicurean  An involuntary action under a stimulus is
 Inability to sleep - Insomnia described as a - Reflex
 One who believes in giving equal opportunity to  Determine the nature of disease - Diagnose
women in all fields - Feminist  Occurring at night - Nocturnal
 To have a very high opinion about oneself  Arrangement in order of occurrence
- Conceited - Chronological
 Place of burial (especially not in churchyard)  Science of heredity - Genetics
- Cemetery  To run away with a lover - Elope
 An occasion of great importance - Momentous  With much liveliness and a sense of purpose
 Government by ruler who has unlimited power - Jauntily
- Autocracy  Seeing something which is not actually present
 One who journeys from place to place - Hallucination
- Itinerant  The practice of having more than one husband
 That which cannot be called back - Irrevocable - Polyandry
 The state of being miserable bereft (deprived  Words of similar meaning - Synonyms
of or lacking) of all possessions - Destitute  To be known for bad acts - Notorious
 A picture of a person or a thing drawn in such a  Belonging to all parts of the world - Universal
highly exaggerated manner to cause a laughter  Instrument to measure atmospheric pressure
- Caricature - Barometer
 Belief that God is in everything and that  The practice of submitting a proposal to
everything is God - Pantheism popular vote - Referendum
 One who breaks the law - Transgressor  An object or portion serving as a sample
 That which cannot be captured - Ungraspable - Specimen
 Reproducing or memorizing word for word  Not to be moved by entreaty - Despotic
- Verbatim  To renounce a high position of authority or
 Careful in spending of money, time, etc. control - Abdicate
- Economical  To struggle helplessly - Flounder
 Science of the race of mankind - Ethnology  Release of a prisoner form jail on certain terms
 Detaining and confining something and conditions - Parole

348
 Feeling inside you which tells you what is right  A violent storm - Tempest
and what is wrong - Conscience  Careful or thorough enquiry - Investigation
 To look at someone in an angry or threatening  Failing to discharge one’s duty (willfully)
way - Glower - Dereliction
 Pertaining to cattle - Bovine  A legal agreement by which a person borrows
 A person who writes decoratively - Calligrapher money from a bank usually to buy a house
 A post with little work but high salary - Mortage
- Sinecure  A child born after the death of his father
 A test in which cells from diseased organs are - Posthumous child
removed and tested - Biopsy  A person who is physically dependent on a
 One who compiles a dictionary - Lexicographer substance - Addict
 Quibble (to avoid giving a direct answer to a  A raised platform in building - Walkway
question in order to hide the truth)  A system of naming things - Nomenclature
- Prevaricate  One who hates women - Misogynist
 Words uttered impiously about God  Able to use right hand and left hand equally
- Blasphemy well - Ambidextrous
 List of issues to be discussed at a meeting  Capable of being interpreted in two ways
- Agenda - Ambiguous
 Theft of another person’s writings or ideas and  One who has narrow and prejudiced religious
passing them off as one’s own - Plagiarism views - Fanatic
 Speed of an object in one direction - Velocity  The action of looking within or into one’s own
 In a threatening manner - Ghastly mind - Introspect
 One who finds nothing good in anything - Critic  To confirm with the help of evidence
 That which cannot be easily read - Illegible - Implicate
 The process of deciding the nature of disease  Full of criticism or mockery - Satire
by examination - Diagnosis  An agreement between two countries or groups
 The quality of being politely firm and to stop fighting - Ceasefire
demanding - Assertive  Excessively enthusiastic and unreasonably
 One who eats human flesh - Cannibal excited about something - Fanatical
 A person who is fluent in two languages  Intense and unreasonable fear or dislike
- Bilingual - Phobia
 State of anxiety or dismay causing mental  To be dogmatic in one’s opinion - Opinionated
confusion - Consternation  High sea waves caused by underwater
 A person who loves wealth but spends as little earthquake - Tsunami
money as possible - Miser  A voice that cannot be heard - Inaudible
 Handwriting that cannot be read - Illegible  The absence of law and order - Anarchy
 To feel or express disapproval of something or  One who intervenes between two or more
someone - Deprecate parties to settle differences - Intermediary
 To keep a great person or event in people’s  To give one’s authority to another - Delegate
memory - Commemorate  Body of singers - Choir
 Occurring at irregular intervals in time  The study of ancient civilization - Archaeology
- Sporadic  A disease which is spread by direct contact
 A person who withdraws from world to live in - Contagious
seclusion and often in solitude - Recluse  Lasting only for a short while - Temporary
 To agree to something - Assent  A number of stars grouped together
 A situation that stops activity from progressing - Constellation
- Bottleneck  Animal that feeds on plants - Herbivores
 A person who dishonestly pretends to be  Use of force or threats to get someone to
somebody else - Imposter agree to something - Coercion

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 Murder of a man - Homicide  Group of people living together in the same

 Strong dislikes between two persons locality - Neighbourhood
- Antipathy  Always ready to attack or quarrel - Aggressive
 That which is without opposition - Unanimous  Fit to be eaten - Edible
 The plant and vegetation of a region - Flora  Unfair advantages for members of one’s own
 The killing of whole group of people - Genocide family - Nepotism
 Related to moon - Lunar  A proficient public speaker - Orator
 The art of preserving skin of animals, birds and  One who eats both vegetables and meat
fish - Taxidermy - Omnivorous
 A paper written by hand - Manuscript  One who gains benefits from something
 Place where wine is made - Brewery - Beneficiary
 Found all over the world - Universal  Spoken or done without preparation
 Something kept as a reminder of an event - Extempore
- Souvenir  Fluent and clear in speech - Articulate
 Scale used for measuring the strength of an  Through which light cannot pass - Opaque
earthquake - Richter  To write under a different name - Pseudonym
 One who practices one of fine arts - Artist  A person who is well known in an unfavorable
 A general pardon of offenders - Amnesty way - Notorious
 An established principle of practical wisdom  The first speech made by a person
- Maxim - Maiden Speech
 The process by which a person or an  A man having no hair on scalp - Bald
organization reduces the amount of money it  A man who wastes his money on luxury
spends - Budgeting - Extravagant
 A figure of speech by which a thing is spoken  A geometrical figure with eight sides - Octagon
of as being that which it only resembles  To injure one’s reputation - Defame
- Simile  A man who does not know how to read or write
 Very dramatic - Histrionic - Illiterate
 To secretly store more than what is allowed  One who speaks for others - Spokesman
- Hoarding  Soldiers who fight on horseback - Cavalry
 A written statement about someone’s  Rebellion against lawful authority - Mutiny
character, usually provided by an employer  To officially take private property away to seize
- Testimonial - Confiscate
 Parts of a country behind the coast or a river  Someone having many skills - Versatile
bank - Hinterland  Something which is imagined to be real but
 An abandoned child of unknown parents who is actually does not exist - Figment
found by somebody - Foundling  Someone who scientifically studies the birds
 Art of writing for newspapers and magazines - Ornithologist
- Journalism  One who loves all mankind - Philanthropist
 A person who gambles or bets - Punter  One who is out to destroy the Government
 Place that provide refuge - Asylum - Anarchist
 A foreigner who settles in a country  One who eats human flesh - Cannibal
- Immigrant  One who performs daring gymnastics feats
 A small room in a big house, hotel, ship etc. - Acrobat
where glasses, dishes, spoons food, etc. are  A list of books available in a library - Catalogue
kept - Pantry  A style in which a writer makes display of his
 Government of the people, by the people and knowledge - Pedantic
for the people - Democracy  To bite like a rat - Gnaw
 The height of object above sea level - Altitude  A place of good climate for invalids
- Sanatorium

350
 Speech for the first time - Maiden speech  Politicians who are notorious for doing undue
 A woman with dark brown hair - Brunette favors to their relative - Nepotism
 The study or collection of coins - Numismatics  A person who helps even a stranger in
 An office with a salary but no work - Sinecure difficulty - Samaritan
 Property inherited from one’s father or  Has an evil reputation - Notorious
ancestors - Patrimony  A person who readily believes others
 Amount of money demanded by kidnappers - Credulous
- Ransom  A political leader appealing to popular desires
 Easy to shape in any desired form - Malleable and prejudices - Demagogue
 A large burial ground - Cemetery  Science regarding principles of classification
 To supply land with water by artificial means - Taxonomy
- Irrigate  Not allowing the passage of light - Opaque
 A co-worker in an office or institution  Operation of body after death Post - Mortem
- Colleague  A group of three powerful people - Triumvirate
 A man who is quite like a woman - Effeminate  An apartment or building in which each
 One whose motive is merely to get money apartment is owned separately by the people
- Mercenary living in it , but also containing shared areas
 The study of plant life - Botany - Condominium
 Animals that live in water - Aquatic  A person who consumes human flesh
 Instrument that magnifies objects - Cannibal
- Microscope  Detailed plan of a journey - Itinerary
 One who is unable to pay one’s debt - Bankrupt  One who cannot be corrected - Incorrigible
 Exclusive possession or control of anything  A person in a vehicle or on horseback
- Monopoly escorting another vehicle - Escort
 One who loves or supports his or her country  Intentional destruction of racial groups
and is willing to defend it - Patriot - Genocide
 Likely to arouse envy (jealousy) - Enviable  Prohibited by law or treaty from being imported
 Existing only in the mind - Imaginary or exported - Contraband
 One who eats too much - Glutton  An excessively morbid desire to steal
 Talking disrespectfully of sacred things - Kleptomania
- Blasphemy  A person who is greatly respected because of
 A handwriting which is difficult or impossible wisdom - Venerable
to read - Illegible  One who is all powerful - Omnipotent
 Animals that eat flesh - Carnivorous  An act of violence to take control of a plane
 One who knows everything - Omniscient - Hijack
 Inability to sleep - Insomnia  Send or bring somebody back to his own
 A list of name of books - Catalogue country - Repatriate
 Yearly celebration of a date or an event  Animals that live in a particular region - Native
- Anniversary  A form of government in which supreme power
 A person who is killed because of their rests with people is - Democracy
religious or other beliefs - Martyr  Murder of a brother - Fratricide
 Men living in the same age - Contemporary  One who enjoys inflicting pain on himself
 A list of books and writings of one author or - Masochist
one subject - Bibliography  To die without having made a will - Intestate
 The conference that takes place once in three  Not easily pleased by anything - Fastidious
years - Triennial  To play the part of and function as, some other
 Meaningless language with an exaggerated person - Act
style intended to impress - Rhetoric  Handwriting which is difficult/impossible to
 The production of raw silk - Sericulture read - Illegible

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351
 More like a woman than a man in manners and  A former student of a school, college or
habits - Effeminate university - Alumnus
 An exact copy of handwriting or a picture  A short story based on your personal
produced by a machine - Copy experience - Anecdote
 One who thinks or speaks too much of himself  One who takes care of a building - Warden
- Egoist  Incapable of being approached - Inaccessible
 Having juicy or fleshy and thick tissue  One who lends money at a very high interest
- Succulent - Usurer
 The study or practice of dancing or composing  One who lives/survives on others/other lives
ballets - Choreography - Parasite
 A set of three related works by same author  Detailed plan of journey - Itinerary
- Trilogy  One who possesses many talents - Versatile
 Science of Human mind and behavior  A medicine to nullify the effect of poison
- Psychology - Antidote
 A person of obscure position who has gained  A person who lives by himself - Recluse
wealth - Parvenu  An assembly of worshippers - Congregation
 A word composed of the first letters of the  A heavy continuous fall of rain - Downpour
words in a phrase - Acronym  A public institution for the care and protection
 The act of producing beautiful handwriting of children without parents - Orphanage
using a brush or a special pen - Calligraphy  A man of evil reputation - Notorious
 An obviously true or hackneyed statement  A decorative ring of flowers and leaves
- Truism - Wreath
 To reduce to nothing - Null  Shaking movement of the ground - Tremor
 A study of sounds is known as - Phonetics  A game in which no one wins - Drawn
 Written law of a legislative body - Statute  The art of making maps and charts
 A person who shows off his/her learning - Cartography
- Pedant  Animals that can live on land and water
 A person who devotes his/her life for the - Amphibians
welfare of others - Altruist  Completing a period of hundred years
 The study of worms and insects - Entomology - Centennial
 A person who attends to the disease of eye is  A figure with many angles or sides - Polygon
an - Oculist  A list of things to be discussed at a meeting
 Study of the nature of Gods - Theology - Agenda
 That which cannot be defeated - Invincible  A large number of fish swimming together
 A decorative handwriting - Calligraphy - Shoal
 A person difficult to please - Fastidious  A room or building for the preservation of
 A list of luggage - Waybill plants - Greenhouse
 The line where the land and sky seems to meet  A principle or standard by which anything is or
- Horizon can be judged - Criterion
 A handwriting that cannot be read - Illegible  A person who is self-centred - Egoist
 Words written on a tomb of a dead person  A word that reads the same as backward or
- Epitaph forward - Pallindrome
 One who studies the art of gardening  The firing of many guns at the same time to
- Horticulturist mark an occasion - Fusillade
 A pole or beam used as a temporary support  A person who supports or speaks in favour of
- Prop something - Advocate
 A building in which aircrafts are housed  One living on vegetables - Vegetarian
- Hangar  An extract from a book of writing - Excerpt
 Person who files a suit - Plaintiff

352
 A person who abstains completely from - Contingency

alcoholic drinks - Teetotaller  Affecting or relating to cows - Bovine
 Long poem based on a noble theme - Epic  A drink usually made from a mixture of one or
 One who lives both on land as well as in water more alcoholic drinks - Cocktail
- Amphibian  Passing out of use - Obsolescent
 A strong dislike - Animosity  The act of speaking about one’s thoughts when
 Take great pleasure - Revel one is alone - Soliloquy
 The practice of having many wives - Polygamy  All the arts, beliefs and social institutions etc,
 Not likely to be easily pleased - Fastidious characteristics of a race - Civilization
 A professional soldier hired to serve in a  Small pieces of metal that fly out from an
foreign army - Mercenary exploding bomb - Shrapnel
 A collection of slaves - Coffle  Person believing in free will - Libertarian
 One who is always doubting - Sceptic  Hole excavated by an animal as dwelling
 One who offers his services of his own freewill - Burrow
- Volunteer  Pertaining to sheep - Ovine
 A person who repairs broken window  To remove an objectionable part from a book
 glasses - Glazier - Expurgate
 The art of beautiful handwriting - Calligraphy  A doctor who specializes in diseases of the
 A writing or a speech in praise of someone nose - Rhinologist
- Eulogy  A man knows a lot about things like food,
 Loss of memory - Amnesia music and art - Connoisseur
 A speech made without preparation  A wooden object used for connecting animals
- Extempore that are pulling a vehicle - Yoke
 A speaker’s platform - Podium  Having a stale smell or taste - Rancid
 Science of practice of map drawing  Material that changes naturally by the action of
- Cartography bacteria - Biodegradable
 Motive or incitement to action - Incentive  Government by the few - Oligarchy
 A short trip or excursion - Jaunt  Study of caves - Speleology
 Speech which is not audible - Inaudible  A fictitious name especially one assumed by
 Partner in crime - Accomplice an author - Pseudonym
 A state where no law and order exists  Animals that eat flesh - Carnivorous
- Anarchy  A speech delivered without any preparation
 To free completely from blame - Exonerate - Extempore
 Estimation of a thing’s worth - Appraisal  A drug or other substance that induce sleep
 A supplement to a will - Codicil - Sedative
 A person who collects coins - Numismatist  Animals which suckle their young ones
 Favouritism granted in politics or business to - Mammals
relatives - Nepotism  Beyond correction - Incorrigible
 A word or practice that has gone out of use  An event that causes great harm to dams
- Obsolete - Disaster
 A person who works for an employer for a fixed  A book written by an unknown - Anonymous
period of time in order to learn the particular  Inflammation of gums - Gingivitis
skills needed in their  Widespread scarcity of food - Famine
 job - Apprentice  A poem of fourteen lines - Sonnet
 A part of a word that can be pronounced  Wild imagination - Fantasy
separately - Syllable  An allowance made to a wife by her husband,
 Relating to kinship with the father - Patrilineal when they are legally separated - Alimony
 A special fondness or liking for - Penchant  One who believes everything he/she hears
 Something that might happen in the future - Credulous

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 People of no fixed abode - Nomads  A medicine that softens the bowels - Laxative
 A person who can make himself/herself feel at  Sentimental longing for a period in a past
home in any country - Cosmopolitan - Nostalgia
 Code of diplomatic etiquette and precedence  A person employed to drive a private or hired
- Protocol car - Chauffeur
 That which makes it difficult to recognize the  A person who always run after women
presence or real nature of something - Philanderer
- Camouflage  Relating to countries of west - Occidental
 The full agreement of all members  A partner in a crime - Accomplice
- Unanimous  A person who leaves one country to settle in
 Accidental good fortune - Fluke another - Emigrant
 Lack of feeling - Apathy  House or shelter of a gipsy - Caravan
 Brought back to mind - Reminisced  One who deals in flower - A florist
 A person who drives our motor cars - Chauffeur  A man who has more than one wife at a time
 A small village or group of houses - Hamlet - Polygamist
 A person who loves everybody - Altruist  One who eats no animal flesh - Vegetarian
 Person leading a life of strict self  A woman whose husband is dead - Widow
- discipline - Ascetic  One who helps people by giving them money or
 One who is neither intelligent nor dull other aid - Benefactor
- Mediocre  The group, especially in the arts, regarded as
 That which can be drunk - Potable being the most experimental - Avant-grade
 A government run by officials - Bureaucracy  A method of boiling briefly to cook food
 One who does something for the first time slightly - Parboil
- Pioneer  A highly skilled musician - Virtuoso
 One who plays for pleasure rather than as a  A person who believes that only selfishness
professional - Amateur motivates human actions - Cynic
 Free somebody from blame or guilt - Exonerate  A cluster of flowers on a branch - Inflorescence
 Underground place for storing wine or other  Belief in many Gods - Polytheism
provisions - Cellar  Design made by putting together coloured
 A list of explanations of rare, technical or pieces of glass or stones - Mosaic
obsolete words - Glossary  Poem in short stanza narrating a popular story
 Study of the interaction of people with their - Ballad
environment - Philosophy  The schedule of travel - Itinerary
 Incapable of being tired - Indefatigable  Something which lasts forever - Eternal
 Guilty of crime - Culpable  A policy that segregate people on the basis of
 That which cannot be reached - Inaccessible colour - Apartheid
 A person who collects and/or studies stamps  A particular method of working
- Philatelist - Modus Operandi
 People at a religious gathering - Congregation  Walking in sleep - Somnambulism
 Government by wealthy - Plutocracy  A person employed as a car driver for an
 Branch of medicine concerned with children important person - Chauffeur
and their illness - Pediatrics  Fear of telling lies - Mythophobia
 Pay attention - Glance at  Feeling annoyed at the sight of unfair
 One who is rather fastidious - Meticulous treatment - Indignant
 A written declaration of government or a  Unwelcome aspect of a situation - Flip side
political party - Manifesto  Imposed a restriction on - Constrained
 Worth eating - Edible  One who hates mankind - Misanthrope
 A person who wastes his money on luxury  To free a person by a verdict of ‘not guilty’
- Extravagant - Acquit

354
 To secure a boat by attaching it to an anchor  One who has long experience - Veteran
- Moor  One who is too careless to plan for the future
 To try to settle a dispute between two other - Improvident
parties - Mediate  Of one’s own free will - Voluntary
 A vivacious and lively experience is said to be  One who runs away from justice or the law
- Scintillating - Fugitive
 Wildly unreasonable, illogical or ridiculous  One who is skillful - Dexterous
- Absurd  A person who deserves all praise - Laudable
 Constant efforts to achieve something  A study of ancient things - Archaeology
- Perseverance  Someone who is designated to hear both sides
 The plant and a vegetation of a region of a dispute and make a judgement - Arbitrator
- Flora  Make pale by excluding light - Etiolate
 A fourteen-line poem - Sonnet  Opinion contrary to accepted doctrine - Heresy
 Showing a dislike of anything improper - Prim  A person who agrees to work for somebody in
 That which cannot be avoided - Inevitable order to learn a skill - Apprentice
 Artistic, musical or dramatic interpretation  That which cannot be avoided - Inevitable
- Rendition  One who is concerned with the welfare of other
 Walking in sleep - Somnambulism - Altruist
 Specially skilled in story telling - A raconteur  To die without making a will – Intestate
 Continuing for a long period of time without  A reserve for animals, birds etc. in their natural
interruption - Perpetual habitat - Sanctuary
 Speech of great importance and gravity  The area of medicine that treats illness of
- Momentous bones - Orthopedics
 A man who helps a stranger or a person in  A person who looks at the bright side of things
difficulties is - Samaritan - Optimist
 A planned route or journey - Itinerary  Study of skin and its diseases - Dermatology
 A story in which animals or objects speak and  A remedy for all diseases - Panacea
give wholesome moral lessons - Fable  An excessive fear of confined spaces
 Act of injuring another’s reputation by any - Claustrophobia
slanderous communication - Defamation  A person who is long experienced or practiced
 A recurrent compulsive urge to steal in an activity/capacity - Veteran
- Kleptomania  Pretended attack - Feint
 Not suitable for eating - Inedible  A land fit for growing crops - Arable
 A person who enters without any invitation  A thing fit to be eaten - Edible
- Intruder  One who suffers for one’s faith - Martyr
 A process involving too much official  A child secretly changes for another in infancy
formalities - Red-tapism - Changeling
 Medical study of skin and its diseases  The branch of medical science which deals
- Dermatology with the problems of the old - Geriatrics
 The burial of corpse - Interment  An image without objective reality
 Conferred as an honor - Honorary - Hallucination
 One who makes an official examination of  A mournful poem or a song - Elegy
accounts - Auditor  That which is arranged by conferring or
 A person who deliberately sets fire to a discussing - Seminar
building - Arsonist  Something that is difficult to understand
 That which cannot be effaced - Indelible - Incomprehensible
 To free someone from all blames - Exonerate  Chief or Commander of army - General
 One who does not believe In the existence of  One who cannot be corrected - Incorrigible
God - Atheist  One who pretends to be what he is not

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
355
- Imposter  One who is in charge of Museum - Curator

 A container for the ashes of a dead person  An act of misappropriation of money
- Urn - Embezzlement
 To put two and two together - Symbiosis  One who cannot make any mistake - Infallible
 No longer in existence or use - Obsolete  The first public performance of musical or
 To destroy completely - Annihilate theatrical work or the first showing of a film
 A song sung at the death of a person - Elegy - Premiere
 A person who has had one or more limbs  An exact copy - Facsimile
removed - Amputee  To give money for sales to agents
 One who is known widely but unusually - Commission
unfavorably is - Notorious  A person who is working in the same institution
 A statement in which you say the same thing - Colleague
twice in different words - Tautology  Favoritism shown by a person in power to his
 Rub or wipe out - Efface relatives - Nepotism
 The period between two regions - Era  A round-about way of expression
 A person who is very selective, disgusted - Circumlocution
easily and is hard to please - Fastidious  Suitable or intended only for young persons
 An error or misprint in printing or writing - Juvenile
- Erratum  A record of one’s own life written by oneself
 A person extremely desirous of money - Autobiography
- Avaricious  Belong to same period - Contemporary
 Too willing to obey other people - Subservient  One who listens secretly to private
 Introductory part or lines to a discourse or play conversation - Eavesdropper
- Prologue  Someone who is incapable of being quietened
 Intentional damage to arrest production or pacified - Implacable
- Sabotage  Government by Department of State
 A handsome man - Adonis - Bureaucracy
 A cinema show held in the afternoon - Matinee  The killing of a race - Genocide
 Animals living in water - Aquatic  Lack of skills - Ineptness
 A person who steals the writing of others  Stick with a thick end used in mortar for
- Plagiarist pounding - Pestle
 One who compiles a dictionary - Lexicographer  An act when people vote in order to make a
 Someone not fit to be chosen - Ineligible particular subject or policy rather than voting
 Art of working with metals - Metallurgy for a person - Referendum
 A gathering at a religious place - Congregation  Drug which causes people to sleep early
 A place where birds are kept - Aviary - Soporific
 The act of killing one’s own brother or sister  The branch of philosophy concerned with the
- Fratricide study of principles of beauty, especially in art
 A legal agreement that allows someone to use - Aesthetics
a building or land for a period of time, usually  The study of skin - Dermatology
in return for rent - Lease  A rough, violent, troublesome person - Tartar
 A person who helps another to commit a crime  A brave, noble – minded or chivalrous man
- Accomplice - Gallant
 A person worships only one God - Monotheist  Obsession with books - Bibliomania
 Lasting for a very short time - Ephemeral  A large body of people playing musical
 A person who is easily deceived or tricked instruments - Orchestra
- Gullible  Solemn religious acts - Rites
 Rules governing socially acceptable behavior  That which cannot be averted - Inevitable
- Etiquette

356
 One who sets type for books, newspapers, etc. - Inscribe

- Compositor  Unable to pay one’s debt - Insolvent
 Land covered by water on three sides  Trouble and annoy continously - Harass
- Peninsula  A narrow stretch of land connecting two large
 A remedy for all diseases - Panacea bodies of land - Isthumus
 A piece of shelter for ships - Harbour  An animal which lives by preying on other
 Of the highest degree - Superlative animals - Predator
 A place where soldiers live - Barracks  Government or rule by a small group of people
 Regular user of places/restaurant etc. - Oligarchy
- Clientele  One who copies from other writers - Plagiarist
 A place where astronomical observations are  Thing that can be felt or touched - Palpable
made - Observatory  The scientific study of elections - Psephology
 Killing one’s sister - Sororicide  A notice of a person’s death - Obituary
 A person who has lost protection of law  Hard working and diligent - Sedulous
- Outlaw  Shine with a bright but brief or irregular light
 Falsification of documents etc. - Forgery - Flicker
 To make atonement to one’s sins - Expiate  The act of setting free from bondage of any
 Committing murder in revenge - Vendetta kind - Emancipation
 The thing that can be easily broken - Brittle  A disease that affects a large number of
 An unimportant person - Nonentity people in an area at the same time - Epidemic
 Experts who scientifically study insects  One who is eighty years old - Octogenarian
- Entomologists  A shady fertile place in a desert - Oasis
 One who pretends to be what he is not  A place where bees are kept - Apiary
- Hypocrite  A brief or a short stay at a place - Sojourn
 A paper/ story/ poem first written out by hand  That which can be believed - Credible
- Manuscript  One who is indifferent to pain or pleasure
 A job carrying no salary - Honorary - Stoic
 Act of stealing in small quantities - Pilferages  A drug which makes one see things that are
 Pertaining to the west - Occidental not really there - Hallucinogen
 A place where money is coined - Mint  Providing relief - Reprieve
 The process by which plants and animals  The philosophy of putting another’s welfare
breathe - Respiration above one’s own - Altruism
 One who sneers at the aims and beliefs of his  A person who is new to profession - Novice
fellow men - Cynic  That which makes one highly knowledgeable
 Property inherited from one’s father - Erudition
- Patrimony  A state of emotional or intellectual separation
 A person who is womanish in habits - Alienation
- Effeminate  A place where animals are slaughtered
 One who is converted from one religion to - Abattoir
other - Proselyte  A man with abnormal habits - Eccentric
 A small shop that sells fashionable clothes,  Proposition made as a basis for reasoning
cosmetics etc. - Boutique without the assumption of its truth/ facts
 Interval between two events - Interlude - Hypothesis
 A person’s peculiar habit - Idiosyncrasy  No longer a child, but not yet an adult
 The art of delaying - Procrastination - Adolescent
 A doctor who specializes in the eye diseases of  Act of making things new like before
the eyes - Opthalmologist - Renovation
 Person who eats too much - Glutton  One who knows everything - Omniscient
 Write or carve words on stone or paper  Any morbid dread of water (fear of water)

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- Hydrophobia  Hobson’s choice - No choice at all

 The ceremony of crowning a sovereign  Violation of the sanctity of a sacred place
- Coronation - Sacrilege
 One who tends to patronize, rebuff or ignore  Speech delivered without preparation
people regarded as social inferiors and imitate, - Extempore
admire people regarded  One who will do any job for anyone for money
 as social superiors - Snob - Mercenary
 A room where dead are kept until burial  A child born after the death of father
- Mortuary - Posthumous
 Government by a king - Monarchy

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Diminutives
Diminutives 13
A diminutive is a word that has been modified to convey a slighter degree of its root meaning, to convey the
smallness of the object or quality named, or to convey a sense of intimacy or endearment.
The Diminutives of Animals and Birds

1. Ass Foal 14. Eel Elver 27. Mare Filly
2. Bear Cub 15. Elephant Calf 28. Moth Caterpillar
3. Bird Nestling 16. Fowl Chicken 29. Owl Owlet
4. Bull Calf 17. Fox Cub 30. Pig Piglet
5. Butterfly Caterpillar 18. Frog Tadpole 31. Salmon Par
6. Cat Kitten 19. Goat Kid 32. Sheep Lamb
7. Cock Cockerel 20. Goose Gosling 33. Stallion Colt Or Foal
8. Cow Calf 21. Hare Leveret 34. Swan Cygnet
9. Cow Heifer 22. Hawk Bowet 35. Toad Tadpole
10. Deer Fawn 23. Hen Pullet 36. Trout Fry
11. Dog Puppy 24. Horse Foal 37. Whale Calf
12. Duck Duckling 25. Horse Colt
13. Eagle Eaglet 26. Lion Cub
The Diminutives of various objects

1. Anima Animalcule 16. Fourth Farthing 31. Part Paddock
2. Animal Animalculum 17. Globe Globule 32. Part Particle
3. Ball Ballet 18. Goose Gosling 33. Ring Ringlet
4. Ball Bullet 19. Grain Granule 34. River Rivulet
5. Brace Bracelet 20. Hill Hillock 35. Sack Satchel
6. Cask Casket 21. Ice Icicle 36. Scythe Sickle
7. Cock Cockerel 22. Isle Islet 37. Seed Seed Let
8. Convent Conventicler 23. Lamb Lambkin 38. Sphere Spherule
9. Corn Kernel 24. Lance Lancet 39. Stream Streamlet
10. Cover Coverlet 25. Lass Lassie 40. Tower Turret
11. Crown Coronet 26. Latch Latchet 41. Verse Verset
12. Dear Darling 27. Leaf Leaflet 42. Verse Versicle
13. Duck Duckling 28. Lock Locket 43. Verse Verselet
14. Eagle Eaglet 29. Man Manikin
15. Flower Floweret 30. Man Manikind
Distinctive Adjectives
1. Air Pneumatic 6. Barber Tonsorial 11. Brother Fraternal
2. Alps Alpine 7. Bees Apiarian 12. Canterbury Cantuarian
3. Asses Asinine 8. Belly Alvine 13. Cats Feline
4. Author Auctorial 9. Bernard Shaw Shavian 14. Cattle Bovine
5. Autumn Autumnal 10. Brain Cerebral 15. City Urban

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
359
16. Coins Numismatic 51. Kitchen Culinary 86. Sea Maritime

17. Color Chromatic 52. Lamp Lucermal 87. Seeing Optical
18. Country Rural 53. Land Praedial 88. Seeing Visual
19. Country Rustic 54. Law Court Forensic 89. Servant Menial
20. Crow Corvine 55. Leaves Foliar 90. Sheep Ovine
21. Daughter Filial 56. Lion Leonine 91. Shepherds Pastoral
22. Day Diurnal 57. Lips Labial 92. Shepherds Bucolic
23. Dogs Canine 58. Love Erotic 93. Ships Nautical
24. Duke Ducal 59. Lungs Pulmonary 94. Ships Naval
25. Eagle Aquiline 60. Marriage Connubial 95. Silk Sericate
26. Earth Terrestrial 61. Marriage Nuptial 96. Sister Sororal
27. Evening Vesper 62. Matrimony Conjugal 97. Smelling Olfactory
28. Father Paternal 63. Milk Lacteal 98. Son Filial
29. Fats Adipose 64. Money Fiscal 99. Sound Acoustic
30. Fats Sebaceous 65. Money Monetary 100. Spring Vernal
31. First Age Primeval 66. Money Pecuniary 101. Stars Stellar
32. Fish Piscine 67. Moon Lunar 102. Sun Solar
33. Fishing Piscatorial 68. Morning Matinal 103. Swine, Pigs Porcine
34. Floods Diluvial 69. Mother Maternal 104. Tailor Sartorial
35. Fox Vulpine 70. Night Nocturnal 105. Tears Lachrymal
36. Goats Caprine 71. Nose Nasal 106. The Apostle Paul Pauline
37. Goose Anserine 72. Old Age Senile 107. The Apostle Peter Petrine
38. Gums Gingival 73. Oxford University Oxonian 108. Throat Guttural
39. Hair Crinal 74. Parish Parochial 109. Tin Stannic
40. Hares Leporine 75. Parrots Psittaceous 110. Tongue Glossal
41. Hearing Auditory 76. Peacock Pavonine 111. Town Or City Urban
42. Hearing Aural 77. Pigeons Peristeronic 112. Uncle Avuncular
43. Heart Cardiac 78. Preaching Predicatory 113. Water Aquatic
44. Heaven Celestial 79. Priesthood Hieratic 114. Weaving Textile
45. Horses Calla Vine 80. Priests Sacerdotal 115. Wife Uxorial
46. Horses Equestrian 81. Rain Pluvial 116. Wild Beasts Ferine
47. Horses Equine 82. River Fluvial 117. Winter Brumal
48. Infant Infantile 83. Rope Funicular 118. Wolf Lupine
49. Iron Ferrous 84. Sailors Nautical
50. Island Insular 85. Sea Marine
Distinctive Sounds of Animals and Birds

1. Apes Gibber 11. Crows Caw 21. Frogs Croak
2. Asses Bray 12. Deer Belt 22. Geese Cackle
3. Bears Growl 13. Dogs Howl 23. Grasshoppers Chirr
4. Bees Buzz 14. Dogs Snarl 24. Hens Cluck
5. Beetles Drone 15. Dogs Grow 25. Hens Cackle
6. Bitterns Boom 16. Dogs Bark 26. Hens Chuckle
7. Bulls Below 17. Doves Coo 27. Horses Neigh
8. Cats Mew, Purr 18. Ducks Quack 28. Horses Whinny
9. Cows Moo 19. Eagles Scream 29. Hounds Bay
10. Crickets Chirp 20. Elephants Trumpet 30. Hyenas Laugh

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31. Hyenas Scream 39. Parrots Chatter 47. Serpents Hiss

32. Lions Roar 40. Pigs Grunt 48. Sheep Bleat
33. Mice Squeak 41. Pigs Squeal 49. Snakes Hiss
34. Monkeys Chatter 42. Rabbits Squeal 50. Sparrows Chirp
35. Owls Hoot 43. Ravens Croak 51. Swallows Twitter
36. Owls Screech 44. Robins Chirp 52. Turkeys Gobble
37. Owls Cur 45. Rooks Caw 53. Wolves Howl
38. Oxen Low 46. Seagulls Scream 54. Wrens Warble
Distinctive sounds produced by various natural elements
1. Babbling Of The Brooks 14. Hissing Of Steam 27. Shuffling Of Feet

2. Buzzing Of Telephone 15. Hooting Of A Steam Whistle 28. Splashing Of Water
3. Chiming Of Bells 16. Howling Of The Wind 29. Swashing Of The Sea
4. Clangor Of Hammers 17. Jingling Of Bells 30. Swishing Of Ladies’ Skirts
5. Clanking Of Chains 18. Lapping Of Water 31. Ticking Of A Clock
6. Clatter Of Horse’S Hoofs 19. Pattering Of The Rain 32. Tinkling Of Bells
7. Crack Of A Whip 20. Popping Of Corks 33. Tinkling Of Coins
8. Crackling Of Fire 21. Roaring Of Thunder 34. Tinkling Of Glasses
9. Crackling Of Wood 22. Rolling Of Thunder 35. Tooting Of A Horn
10. Crackling Of Dry Leaves 23. Rumbling Of Thunder 36. Whirring Of Wings
11. Creaking Of Hinges 24. Rumbling Of Heavy Vehicles 37. Whizzing Of Arrows
12. Crinkling Of Paper 25. Rustle Of Silk Or Leaves 38. Zooming Of Aero Planes
13. Gurgling Of The Rivers 26. Screeching Of Brakes

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
361
Homonyms
Homonyms 14
Homonyms are each of two or more words having the same spelling or pronunciation but different meanings and
origins.
A  Aye: A response accepting an order (naval term)

 Eye: An organ of sight
 Ad: A short form of the word advertisement  I: Oneself, first person singular, used by a person to
 Add: A short form of the word addition refer to himself or herself
 Aid: To help or assist somebody
 Aide: An assistant (usually to a political leader) B
 Bail: The temporary release of an accused person
 Aero: Of an aircraft, the preceding word of the word awaiting trial, sometimes on the condition that a
aero plane used in British-Indian English, unlike the sum of money is deposited in the court to
American Airplane guarantee their appearance in the court at a future
 Arrow: A slender, pointed shaft, as in bow and arrow date
1. To scoop water out of a ship or a boat
 Ail: To be ill or sick 2. To make an emergency descent by parachute
 Ale: A deer from an aircraft
 Aisle: A walk way 3. To rescue someone from a difficulty
 Isle: An island  Bale: A bundle of hay or dry grass
 Allowed: That which is permitted  Bait: Food used to entice fish or other animals as
 Aloud: Spoken in a loud manner prey, To deliberately annoy, taunt or torment
somebody
 Altar: A raised platform used as a place of worship  Bate: (Of a hawk) beat wings in agitation and flutter
 Alter: To change off a perch (term used in falconry)
 Arc: A portion of a circle  Bald: A hair less person

 Ark: A water-borne vessel (for instance, Noah’s Ark,  Bawled: To have cried loudly
referred to in the Holy Bible)
 Band :
 Ascent: A climb, to increase, to go up 1: A small group of musicians and vocalists
 Assent: To agree or to give permission to 2: A small group of people who have common
interests and purposes
 Ate: Past tense of the word eat  Banned: Something that is disallowed or illegal
 Eight: The number that comes after seven and
before nine  Bard: A poet, traditionally one reciting epics (the
Bard is a reference to William Shakespeare)
 Awed: In a state of wonder  Barred:
 Odd: Not the usual, not the norm 1. enclosed by poles or bars

362
2. Prohibited to do something and from going from 4. Involve oneself deeply in something
somewhere
 Berth:
 Bare: Naked or without any covering 1. A ship’s allotted place at a wharf or dock
 Bear: 2. Moor or moored in a berth
1. A large, heavy mammal of the family of which 3. Provide a berth for a passenger on a train
there are several species, the largest being the  Birth:
Kodiak Bear of the Arctic regions 1. The emergence of a body or the young creature
2. (Stock Exchange) A person who sells shares from the body of its mother
hoping to buy them back later at lower price 2. The start of life as a physically separate being
 Bear: 3. The beginning of something, the origin, descent,
1. Manage to tolerate (pain or problem etc…) ancestry
2. Give birth to a child
 Better: Superior, in a more advanced stage
 Bark: The tough outer covering of a tree  Bettor: A person who plays or places a bet
 Bark: The sharp explosive cry of a dog, fox or a seal
 Bark: To utter (a command or order) abruptly and  Bite:
aggressively 1. Use the teeth to cut something into pieces
 Braque: A sailing ship, typically with three masts 2. (Of a fish) Take the bait at the end of the fishing
net into mouth
 Baron: 1. A member of the lowest order of British 3. (Of a policy or situation)Take effect with
nobility, minor royalty unpleasant consequences
2. A powerful person in business or industry ( for  Byte: (Computing) a group of binary digits or bits
instance a press baron or a liquor baron) (usually eight) operated on a unit
 Barren:
1. (of land) Too poor or infertile to produce much or  Bloc: An alliance or a group (of political parties or
any vegetarian countries)
2. (Of tree or a plant) Not producing any fruit or  Block:
seed 1. A large solid piece of hard material with flat
3. (Of a female animal or woman) Unable to bear surface on each side
offspring or a child 2. A large single building subdivided into separate
4. Bleak and lifeless flats or offices
3. An obstacle to the smooth or normal progress or
 Baul: Singing minstrels of Bengal and Bangladesh functioning of something
 Bawl:
1. To shout noisily or angrily  Boar: A wild pig found in the jungle
2. To weep noisily  Boer: A south African of Dutch descent
 Boor: A rough and bad-mannered person, tasteless
 Beach: buffoon
1. A pebbly or sandy shore at the edge of the sea or  Bore:
a lake 1. To make a hole in something
2. To bring into the beach from water 2. The hollow part inside a gun barrel or other tube
 Beech: A large tree with smooth grey bark, glossy 3. A dull and uninteresting person or activity
leaves and hard, pale, fine-grained wood 4. Make somebody feel weary and uninterested by
virtue of being dull and tedious
 Berry: A small juicy fruit without a stone
 Bury: 1. Put or hide understood  Board:
2. Place a dead body in the earth or in a tomb 1. A long, thin, flat piece of wood used for floors or
3. Cause to disappear or to become unnoticeable other building purposes

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
363
2. The decision-making body of an organization together and baked

3. The provision of regular meals in return for 2. (Informal) Money
payment or services  Bred: manner of upbringing – the past tense of
4. To get into a train or into a ship or into an aircraft breed
 Bored: Weary of or uninterested in something or
somebody  Broach: To raise (a sensitive) a subject for
discussion
 Bolder: More courageous or braver than somebody  Brooch: An ornamental fastened to clothing with a
 Boulder: A large rock hinged pin and catch
 Bole: A tree trunk

C
 Bowl: A dish  Cache: A hidden store of things
 Cash: Money in coins or notes
 Boos: Disparaging sounds or calls from fans
 Booze: Alcohol or liquor  Cannon:
1. A large, heavy piece of artillery formerly used in
 Borough: A town warfare
 Burrow: 2. (Billiards or snooker) A stroke in which the cue
1. A hole or tunnel dug by a small animal as a ball strikes two balls successfully
dwelling 3. Collide with something forcefully or at an angle
2. To dig into or through something solid  Canon:
1.A general rule or principle by which something is
 Bough: A main branch of a tree judged
 Bow: 2. The degree or the law of a Church
1. A knot tied with two loops and two loose ends 3. A collection or the list of sacred books accepted
2. A weapon for shooting arrows that is made of a as genuine
curved piece of wood joined at both ends by a taut
string  Canvas: A strong coarse unbleached cloth used to
 Bow: make sails, tents etc… and as a surface for oil
1. Lower the head or bend the upper part of the painting
body as a sign of respect, greeting or shame  Canvass:
2. Cause to bend with age or under a heavy weight 1. Solicit votes from voters
3. Give in to pressure or demands 2. Propose an idea or a plan for discussion
4. Withdraw or retire from something(to bow out)
 Capital:
 Buoy: A navigational aid 1. The most important city or a town of a country or
 Boy: a male child a region, usually the seat of government and
administration
 Breach: 2. Wealth owned by a person or an association or
1. An act of breaking a law or agreement or code of invested, lent or borrowed
conduct 3. A capital letter
2. A gap in a wall or barrier, especially one made by 4. (Of an offence or charge) Liable to attract the
an attacking army death penalty
 Breech:  Capitol:
1. The part of a cannon behind the bore 1. (In the USA) A building housing a legislative
2. The back part of a rifle or gun barrel assembly
2. (The Capitol) The temple of Jupiter on the
 Bread: Capitoline Hill in ancient Rome
1. Food made of flour, water and yeast, mixed

364
 Carat:  Sensor: A device which detects or measures a

1. A unit of weight for precious stones and pearls, physical property
equivalent to 200 milligrams
2. (USA spelling of karat) A measure of the purity of  Cite:
Gold, pure gold being 24 carats 1. Quote (a book or author) as evidence for an
argument or belief
 Caret: A proofreader’s mark (^) placed below a line 2. Praise for a courageous act in an official
of text to indicate a proposed insertion or dispatch
correction  Sight:
 Carrot: A tapering orange-colored root eaten as a 1. The faculty or the power of seeing
vegetable 2. The action or the fact of seeing someone or
something
 Cast:  Site:
1. Throw forcefully in a specified direction 1. An area of ground on which something is located
2. Cause (light or shadow) to appear on a surface 2. The place where a particular event or activity is
3. Discard occurring or has occurred
4. Shape (metal or other material) by pouring into a
mold while molten  Coarse:
5. Register (a vote) 1. Rough or harsh in texture, unrefined
6. Throw the hooked and baited end of a fishing line 2. (Of a person’s features) Not elegantly formed or
into the water well proportioned
7. cast a magic spell to take effect 3. (Of a person’s character or his speech) Rude or
8. The actors taking part in a play or film vulgar
 Caste: 1. each of hereditary classes of Hindu  Course:
society, distinguished by relative degrees of ritual 1. The route or direction followed by a ship, aircraft,
purity or pollution (untouchables) and of social road or a river
status 2. The way in which something progresses or
2. (In some social insects) A physically distinct kind develops
of individual with a particular function(Entomology) 3. A dish forming one of the successive parts of
meal
 Cede: Give up (power or territory) 4. A series or lectures or lessons in a particular
 Seed: A plant’s unit of reproduction through which subject
another plant is capable of growing 5. An area of land prepared for racing, golf or any
other sport
 Cell:
1. A small room in which a prisoner is kept locked  Complacent: Smug and uncritically satisfied with
or in which a monk or a nun sleeps oneself or one’s achievements, self-satisfied
2. A small group of people forming a nucleus of a  Complaisant: Willingness to please others or to
political party accept their behavior without protest
3. A device containing electrodes immersed in
electrolyte, used for current generation or  Complement:
electrolysis 1. A thing that contributes extra features to
 Sell: Give or hand over in exchange for money something else and thereby enhances and improves
it
 Censor: An official who examines material that is to 2. The number or quantity the makes something
be published or a film that is to be screened and complete
deletes or edits parts considered offensive to  Compliment: A polite expression of praise or
societal sensibilities or a threat to the security of admiration
the society

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
365
 Conch: A tropical marine mollusk  Dock:

 Conk: 1. An enclosed area of water in a port for the
1. (Of a machine) break down loading, unloading and repair of ships
2. Faint or go to sleep or die 2. To come or bring (a ship) into a dock
3. The enclosure in a criminal court where the
 Coo:1. (Of a pigeon or dove) Make a softy defendant stand sits
murmuring sound 4. Deduct(money or point in a score)
2. (Of a person) To speak in a soft and gentle voice 5. Cut short(an animal’s tail)
 Coup:
1. A sudden and violent seizure of power from a  Draft:
government 1. A preliminary version of a piece of writing, a plan
2. An unexpected and notably successful act or sketch
D 2. A written order to pay a specified amount
3. (the draft) Compulsory recruitment for military
 Dammed: Hold back or obstruct to prevent water service(USA)
from flowing  Draught:
 Damned: 1. A current of cool air in a room of in a confined
1. (Informal) used to emphasis one’s anger or place
frustration 2. A single act of drinking or inhaling
2. Cursed 3. Denoting beer served from a cask rather than
from a bottle or a can
 Days: Two or more days 4. Denoting an animal for pulling heavy loads
 Daze: Make unable to think react properly, a state
of stunned confusion  Dual: Consisting of two parts, elements or aspects
 Duel:
 Dew: Tiny drops of water that form on cool surfaces 1. (Historical) A pre-arranged contest with deadly
at night when atmospheric vapor condenses weapons between two persons to settle a point of
 Due:1. Expected at, planned for or required by a honor
certain time 2. (Modern) A contest between two parties
2. Proper, appropriate
3. fees (Dues) E
 Ewe: A female sheep
 Discreet:  Yew: A coniferous tree
1. Careful or prudent in speech or actions,
especially in order to avoid giving offense or  Eyelet: A small round hole in leather or cloth for
attracting attention threading a lace, string or rope through
2. Unobtrusive  Islet: a small island.
 Discrete: Individually separate or distinct
F
 Faint: To pass out or become unconscious
 Doe: 1. A female deer  Feint: A deceptive or pretended blow, thrust or
2. A female hare, rabbit, rat, ferret or kangaroo attacking movement, especially in boxing or fencing
 Dough:
1. A thick malleable mixture of flour and  Fair:
liquid(water or milk) for basking into bread or 1. Treating people equally just or appropriate in the
pastry circumstances
2. (Informal) Money 2. (Of hair or complexion) light
3. Considerable in size or amount, moderately good
 Doc: The short form of the word Doctor, a physician 4. (Of weather) Fine and dry

366
5. A gathering of stalls and amusements for public  Foreword: The introduction to a book
entertainment  Forward: To move ahead
6. A periodic gathering for the sale of goods
 Fare:  Foul 1. Offensive to the senses
1. The money a passenger on public transport has 2. Contrary to the rules of a sport
to pay 3. Polluted or contaminated
2. A range of fare  Fowl: A domesticated bird derived from a jungle
3. To perform in a specified way in a particular fowl and kept for its egg or meat, a cock or hen
situation or period
G
 Farrow:  Gait: A person’s manner of walking
1. A litter of pigs  Gate: A hinged barrier used to close an opening in a
2. (Of a sow) to give birth to piglets wall, fence or hedge
 Pharaoh: Egyptian kings of ancient times
 Gild: To cover or coat thinly with guild
 Faze: (usually with the negative) Disturb or  Gilled: Having gills-the paired respiratory organ of
disconcert (Informal) fish and some amphibians through which oxygen is
 Phase: A part of the sequence, a particular period extracted from water
 Guild: An association of people in pursuit of a
 Feat: An achievement or accomplishment common guild or mutual aid
 Feet: The plural form of foot-the lower extremity of
the leg below the angle  Gin: An alcoholic beverage
 Jinn: (In Arabian and Islamic mythology) An
 Feted: Honored or entertained lavishly intelligent spirit that can appear in human and
 Fetid: Smelling unpleasant animal form(also spelt djinn)
H
 Few: Not many, less in number  Hail:
 Phew: An expression of relief, usually with an 1. pellets of frozen rain falling in showers
exclamation mark 2. A large number of things that are hurled
forcefully through the air
 Flair: 3. Call out someone to attract attention
1. Natural ability or talent 4. Acclaim enthusiastically as something
2. Stylishness 5. Have one’s origins or home in (to hail from)
 Flare:  Hale: (Usually referring to an old person) Strong
1. A sudden brief burst of flames or light and healthy (hale and healthy)
2. A device producing a very bright flames as a  Hall: A large room
signal or marker  Haul:
3. A sudden burst of intense emotion or anger 1. To pull or drag with effort or force
4. A gradual widening towards the hem of the 2. A quantity of something obtained, especially
garments illegally
3. A number of fish caught at one time(a good haul)
 Flea: A small wingless jumping insect which feeds 4. A distance to be traveled(it is a long haul)
on the blood of mammals and birds
 Flee: To run away  Hangar: A garage for aircraft
 Hanger: A shaped piece of wood, plastic or metal
 Flour: A powder obtained by grinding grains, used with a hook at the top, meant for hanging clothes
to make bread, cakes and pastries
 Flower: A bloom of a plant  Heal: To cure a disease

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
367
 Heel: The hind part of the foot  In: 1. Something that is enclosed or surrounded
2. Referring to a period of time during which an
 Heard: incident took place
1. Sound picked by the ear 3. Expressing the condition of inclusion or
2. To be told or informed about involvement
 Herd: Large group of animals, especially hoofed  Inn: A hotel or public house, traditionally also
mammals that live together or are kept together providing food and lodging
 Hoard: 1. A store of money or valued objects  Inc: The short form or abbreviation for incorporated
2. To amass and hide or store away(wealth or  Ink: A colored fluid that is used for writing, drawing
money) or printing
 Horde:
1. (Mainly derogatory) A large group of people  Incite: To encourage or stir up (behavior that is
2. An army or tribe of nomadic warriors violent and unlawful)
 Insight:
 Hoes: More than one long handled gardening tool 1. The ability or capacity to gain an accurate, deep
with a thin metal blade, used mainly for weeding and intuitive understanding of something
 Hose: 2. An understanding of the above kind
1. A flexible tube conveying water used primarily for
watering plants and firefighting
J
2. To water or spray with a hose  Jean: 1. A heavy twilled cotton cloth. Especially
denim
 Holy: Something considered true, sacred and pure 2. A pair of jeans
with religious significance Wholly: Completely, fully  Gene: (Biology) A hereditary unit that is transferred
and entirely from parent to offspring and which determines the
characteristics of the offspring, particularly a
 Humerus: The bone of the upper arm or forelimb, distinct sequence of DNA forming part of
between the shoulder and the elbow- also called chromosomes
the funny bone
 Humorous: causing amusement, funny, having or  Jack: An English or Christian name
showing a sense of humor  Jack:
1. A device used for lifting heavy objects, especially
I one for raising the axle of a motor vehicle
 Idle: 2. Playing card bearing an image of soldier, page or
1. Avoiding work, lazy knave and normally ranking below the queen
2. (Of money) Held in cash or in an account paying
no interest
K
3. Having no purpose or basis (idle boast/ threat)  Knead: 1. To work dough or clay with the hands
 Idol: 2. Massage as if kneading
1. An image or representation of a god used as an  Need: Something one must have, something
object of worship required
2. Something or someone that is adulated(A sports
idol)  Knight:
 Idyll: 1. (Middle Ages)A man elevated to honorable
1. A period or situation that is blissful military rank after service as a page or squire
2. A picturesque scene or incident described in 2. A man devoted to the cause or service of a
short in verse or prose woman(poetic or literary)
3. A chess piece, shaped like a horse’s head, that

368
moves by jumping to the opposite corner of a  Lode: A vein of metal ore in the earth
rectangle two squares by three
 Night:  Loan: 1. A thing or an amount that is borrowed,
1. The time from sunset to sunrise particularly a sum that is supposed to be paid back
2. The darkness of the night with interest
2. The act of lending
 Knot: 1. Fastening that is made by looping a piece  Lone: By itself, the only one or being along with out
of string, rope, etc.. on itself and tightening it any company of other person
2. A hard lump of bodily tissue
3. A small group of people
M
4. A unit of speed equal to one nautical mile per  Main: Chief in size or importance
hour, used for ships, aircraft or win  Mane: The growth of long hair on the neck of a
 Naught: horse, lion or other animals, a person’s long hair
1. the digit zero
2. Nothing  Maize: A cereal plant that yields corn
 Not: A word denoting negation  Maze:
1. A net work of paths and hedges designed as a
L puzzle through which a person has to find his way
 Lacks: A thing that does not have or is devoid of 2. A confusing mass of information
 Lax: 1. relaxed (of muscles)
2. Not sufficient strict, severe(in discipline) or  Mall:
careful 1. A large enclosed shopping area where traffic is
not permitted
 Lessen: To reduce or bring down in number 2. A sheltered walk or promenade
 Lesson: A thing that learnt, a period of learning or  Maul:
teaching 1. (of an animal) To wound by scratching or tearing
2. Handle or treat savagely and roughly
 Liar: A person who tells lies or falsehoods  Moll:
 Lyre: A stringed instrument, used especially in 1. A gangster’s female companion
ancient Greece 2. A prostitute or commercial sex worker
 Lichen:  Manner: 1. A specific way in which something is

1. A fungus that grows on rocks, walls and trees done or happens
2. A skin disease in which small, round, hard lesions 2. A style in literature of in art
occur close together 3. A person’s outward bearing or way of behaving
 Liken: To compare (to something) with others
 Manor:
 Lightening: To reduce the weight of something 1. A large country house with lands
 Lightning: A brief, natural, high-voltage electrical 2. (Historical) A unit of land, usually a feudal land
discharge between a cloud and the ground or within ship, consisting of a lord’s demesne and lands
a cloud accompanied by a bright flash and often rented to tenants
with thunder also 3. (Informal) One’s home territory or area of
operation
 Load:
1. heavy or bulky thing that is being carried  Medal: A medal disc with an inscription or design
2. A weight or source of pressure awarded to acknowledge distinctive achievement or
3. The amount of work that is to be done by a made to commemorate an event
person or by a machine

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369
 Meddle: To interfere in something that does not  Our: belonging to or associated with the speaker
concern one (usually meddle in/with) and one or more persons previously mentioned or
easily identified
 Might: 1. Expressing the possibility of something  Hour: 1. A period of time equal to twenty fourth part
2. Great power or strength of a day and divided into 60 minutes
 Mite: 2. A time of a day specified as an exact number of
1. A tiny arachnid with four pairs of legs hours from midnight or midday
2. A small child or an animal 3. Period set aside for a particular purpose or
3. A very small amount marked by a specific activity(e.g. work hours or
leisure hours)
 Miner: A person who works in mines
 Minor: With little importance, seriousness or  Overdo: To use too much of, exaggerate
significance  Overdue: Past the time when due or scheduled, not
N having arrived, been born etc... at the expected time
 Naval: Of, in or relating to navy or navies P
 Navel:  Pail: A bucket
1. Rounded knotty depression in the center of a  Pale: 1. containing little color or pigment, light in
person’s belly caused by the detachment of the color (a person’s face) having little color, usually
umbilical cord after birth, the umbilicus due to shock, fear or ill ness
2. The central point of a place 2. Unimpressive or inferior ( a pale imitation)
3. Seem or become less important (to pale in
 Nay: no, a negative answer comparison)
 Neigh: A horse’s cry 4. A wooden stake used with others to form a fence
5. A boundary (lie outside the pale of morality)
 None: not any, no one
 Nun: A member of a female religious community  Pain: 1. Strong unpleasant and hurting bodily
(usually Christians), A person living under vows of sensation such as one caused by illness or injury
chastity, obedience and poverty 2. Mental suffering or distress
O  Pane:
1. A single sheet of glass in a window or door
 Oar: A pole with a flat blade that is used to row or 2. A sheet or page of stamps
steer a boat through the water
 Ore: naturally occurring solid material from which a  Pair: A set of two
metal or valuable mineral can be extracted  Pare: 1. Trim by cutting away the edges
2. Reduce or diminish in a number of small
 Oh: An exclamation of surprise or interjection successive stages
 Owe:
1. Have an obligation to pay money or goods to  Pear: A yellowish or brownish green edible fruit, the
someone in return for something received tree that bears this fruit
2. To be under a moral obligation to show gratitude,  Palate:
respect etc.. to offer an explanation to someone 1. The roof of the mouth, separating the cavities of
the mouth and nose vertebrates
 Ordinance: An authoritative order 2. A person’s ability to distinguish between and
 Ordnance: appreciate flavors
1. mounted guns or cannons 3. The flavor of a wine or beer
2. A government’s department dealing especially
with military stores and material  Palette:1. A thin board or other surface on which an
artist lays and mixes colors

370
2. The range of colors used by a particular artist in 2. Sell an illegal goods or drugs
a particular time 3. (Derogatory) Promote an idea or view
3. The range of tonal or instrumental colors in a persistently
musical piece
 Pallet: 1. A straw mattress  Plain: 1. Simple and ordinary, not decorated or
2. A crude or makeshift bed elaborate
3. A portable platform on which goods can be 2. easy to perceive or understand
moved, stacked and stored  Plane: 1. A flat surface on which a straight line
4. A flat wooden blade with a handle that is used to joining any two points would wholly lie
shape clay or plaster 2. Completely even or flat
3. A level of existence or thought
 Pause: A temporary stop in action or speech
 Paws:  Pray: 1. Address a prayer to God
1. An animal’s foot having claws and pads 2. Wish or hope earnestly for specific out come
2. (Informal) A person’s hands  Prey: 1. An animal hunted or killed by another
animal for food
 Pea: A round green seed eaten as a vegetable, the 2. Hunt or kill for food
leguminous plant which yields pods containing 3. Exploit or injure, cause trouble to
peas
 Pee:  Principal: 1. First in order of importance, main
1. To urinate 2. Denoting the original sum of money invested or
2. Urine lent
3. The head of a school or a college
 Peak: 4. (Law) A person directly responsible for a crime
1. The pointed top of the mountain (the principal accused)
2. A point in a curve or on a graph  Principle: 1. A fundamental truth or proportion
3. The point of highest activity or achievement serving as the foundation for belief or action
 Peek: 2. Morally correct behavior and attitude
1. To look quickly or furtively 3. A fundamental source or basis for something
2. Protrude slightly so as to be just visible 4. (Chemistry) An active or characteristic
 Pique: constituent of a substance
1. A feeling of irritation or resentment resulting
from a slight, particularly to one’s pride
Q
2. Stimulate one’s interest or curiosity  Quarts: Several units of liquid capacity equal to
quarter of a gallon or two pints, equivalent to
 Peal: 1. Loud ringing of bells approximately, in Britain, 1.13 litres and in the USA
2. A loud repeated or reverberating sound of to approximately 0.94 litres
thunder or laughter  Quartz: A hard mineral consisting of silica, typically
 Peel: occurring as colorless or white hexagonal prisms
1. Remove the outer covering or skin from a fruit or
vegetable  Queue: A line or sequence of people or vehicles
2. The outer covering or skin of a fruit or vegetable awaiting their turn to be attended to or to proceed
 Cue: A signal or prompt for action
 Pedal: 1. Each of a pair of foot-operated levers for R
moving a bicycle or other vehicle propelled by leg-  Rain: 1. The condensed moisture of the atmosphere
power falling visibly to earth in separate drops
2. To move a bicycle by working ob the pedals 2. A large quantity of things falling or descending
 Peddle:
1. Sell goods by going from place to place

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
371
 Rein: 1. A long, narrow strap attached at one end to 2. Propel a boat with oars
a horse’s bit, typically used in pairs to guide or 3. (Informal) A heated quarrel
check a horse in riding or driving 4. A loud noise or uproar
2. To check or guide a horse by tugging on its reins
3. (Reins)The power to direct and control  Root: A temporary stop in action or in speech
 Reign:  Route: A way or course taken in getting from a
1. To rule as a monarch or a king starting point to a destination, a path of travel
2. The period of rule of monarch  Rot:
3. The period during which someone or something 1. Decompose by action of bacteria and fungi,
is predominant or pre-eminent decay
2. The process of decaying
 Raise: 1. Lift or move to a higher position or level 3. Gradually deteriorate or decline
2. Construct or build(a structure)  Wrought: (Of metal) beaten out or shaped by
3. Increase the amount, level or strength of hammering
4. Promote to higher level  Rote: Mechanical or habitual repetition
5. Cause to be heard or felt, considered  Wrote: Has written, past tense of write
6. Generate (a bill, invoice)
7. Collect or levy(money or resources)  Rude: Impolite, without manners and a sense of
8. Bring up a child etiquette
9. Breed or grow(animals or plants)  Rued: Regretted, to have felt sorry about
10. Wake up from sleep or bring back from death
11. Abandon or force to abandon (a blockade,
S
embargo, siege etc…)  Sachet: A small sealed bag or packet containing a
 Raze: Tear down and destroy (a building, town, limited quantity of something
village etc…)  Sashay:
 Rise: Get up, stand up, come up, come out etc… 1. Walk ostentatiously, with exaggerated hip and
shoulder movements
 Rap: A sharp knock, to strike with a series of rapid 2. Perform the sashay
audible blows
 Wrap:  Seam: A line where two pieces of fabric are sewn
1. Cover or enclose in paper or soft material together in a garment or other article
2. (Informal) Finish or conclude something  Seem: Give the impression of being
 Read: To look at and comprehend the meaning of  Sear: 1. Burn or scorch with sudden intense heat
written or printed matter by interpreting the 2. (Of pain) Be experienced as a sudden burning
character or symbols of which it is composed, sensation
speak aloud (the written or printed matter)  Seer 1.A person of supposed supernatural insight
 Reed: A tall, slender-leaved plant of the grass who sees visions of the future
family that grows in water or on marshy ground 2. An enlightened person or one who has attained
nirvana
 Roe: 3. A varying unit of weight (about one kilo gram) or
1. The mass of eggs contained in the ovaries of a liquid measure (about one litre), used in the Indian
female fish or shellfish, especially when ripe and subcontinent
used as food
2. A small deer with a reddish summer coat that  Serf: (During feudal times) An agricultural laborer
turns grayish in water who has bonded to working on a particular estate
 Row:  Surf:
1. A number of people or things in a more or less 1. The mass or line of foam formed by waves
straight line breaking on a seashore or reef

372
2. Stand or lie on the surf board and ride on the  Stake: A wooden pole
crest of a wave towards the shore  Steak: A slice of meat
3. To be occupied by moving from one web site to
another on the internet  Stationary:
1. Not moving
 Shear: 2. Not changing in quantity or condition
1. To cut the wool off a sheep or other animal  Stationery: Paper or other material needed for
2. Break off or cause to break of , owing to wiring
structural strain
 Sheer:  Story: A floor or part of a building comprising all the
1. Nothing other than, unmitigated (sheer bad luck) rooms those are on the same level
2. Perpendicular or nearly so(of a cliff or a wall)  Story:
3. Very thin (Of fabric) 1. An account of imagination or real people and
4. Swerve or charge course quickly(especially a events told for entertainment
boat) 2. An account of past events, experiences, etc…
3. (Informal) A lie
 Sic: Written exactly as it appears in the original
(used after a copied or quoted word)  Succor: Assistance or support during the time of
 Sick: hardship or distress
1. Affected by physical or mental illness  Sucker: (Informal) A gullible person or one whom it
2. Feeling nauseous or wanting to vomit is easy to deceive
3. Bored, weary or tired of(Especially through
excessive exposure)  Suite: A set of rooms for one person’s or his
4. (Of humor) Dealing offensively with unpleasant family’s use or for a particular purpose, especially
or upsetting objects in a hote
5. Having abnormal or unnatural  Sweet:
6. tendencies(especially sexual) 1. With the pleasant taste characteristic of sugar or
honey, not salty, sour, bitter
 Slay: To kill or murder someone 2. (Of air, water, etc…) Fresh, pure, untainted
 Sleigh: 3. Pleasing in general, delightful
1. A sledge drawn by horses or reindeers 4. (Of a person) Pleasant and kind or thoughtful
2. To ride on sledge 5. A small piece of confectionary made of sugar
6. A sweet dish forming a course of a meal
 Soar: 1. Fly or rise high into air 7. A pudding or dessert
2. Increase rapidly above the usual level
 Sore: 1. Painful or aching  Sundae: A dish of ice with added such as fruit, nuts
2. Upset and angry and syrup or chocolates
3. Severe, urgent  Sunday: The day of the week before Monday and
after Saturday, observed as a day of rest and
 Sole: religious workshop
1. The underside of a person’s foot
2. The underside of a tool or an implement  Symbol:
3. One and only 1. A thing that represents or stands for something
 Soul: else, especially a material object representing
1. The spiritual or immaterial part of a human, something abstract
regarded as immortal 2. A mark or character used as a conventional
2. A person who is regarded as the embodiment of representation of something
some equality

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
373
 Cymbal: A musical instrument consisting of a  Troup: A group of dancers, actors or other

slightly concave round brass plate that is either entertainers who move from place to place
struck against one another or struck with a stick performing at different venues
T
 Taught: past tense of teach U
 Taut:  Urn: 1. A tall, rounded vase with a stem and base,
1. Stretched or pulled tight especially one for storing a cremated person’s
2. (Of writing, music etc…) Concise and controlled ashes
3. (Of a ship) Having a disciplined crew 2. A large metal container with a tap in which tea or
coffee is made and kept hot
 Team:  Earn: Obtain (Money) in return for labor or services,
1. A group of players forming one side in a gain (Money) as interest or profit (of capital
competitive game or sport invested)
2. Two or more people working together
 Teem: Be full of or swarming with  Use: Treat in a particular manner, take hold or
employ as means of accomplishing something
 Throne: A ceremonial chair for a monarch, bishop or  Ewes: female sheep
similar figure
 Thrown: To be hurled
V
 Vain: 1. A person who has or shows an excessively
 Tic: A habitual spasmodic contraction of the high opinions of his/her appearance and abilities
muscles, most often in the face 2. Useless
 Tick:  Vein: 1. Any of the tubes forming a part of the
1. A mark that indicates a textual item is correct or circulatory system by which blood is conveyed to
has been checked or chosen all parts of the body towards the heart
2. A regular short, sharp sound especially that 2. In plants, a slender rib that forms part of the
made every second by a clock or by a watch supporting framework of a wing
3. A parasitic arachnid that attaches itself to the 3. A distinctive quality, style or tendency(he was
skin, from where it sucks blood speaking in a humorous vein)
4. (Informal) A worthless or contemptible person
 Vale: A valley
 Tighten: To make tighter or better fitting  Veil: 1. A fine material worn to protect or conceal,
 Titan: particularly used by woman
1. Any member of a family of giant gods in Greek 2. A thing that conceals, disguises or obscures
mythology
2. A person or thing of great strength, intellect or  Verses: 1. Writing that is arranged in a metrical
importance rhythm
2. A group of lines that form a unit in a poem or
 Timber: Wood meant for use in building and song
carpentry 3. Each of the short numbered divisions of a
 Timbre: The character or quality of a musical sound chapter in the Bible or other scriptures
or voice as distinct from its pitch and intensity  Versus: Against, as opposed to, in contrast to
especially used in sporting and legal context)
 Troop: 1. A soldiers or members of the armed W
forces  Wade: Walk through any liquid or viscous
2. A cavalry unit commanded by a captain substance
3. A group of people or animals of a particular kind  Weighed: To have one’s weight taken

374
 Wail: 3. (British informal) Lacking forcefulness or

1. A prolonged and high-pitched cry of pain, grief or strength of character
anger 4. (informal, of an area) Allowing the free sale of
2. Cry out or utter a wail alcoholic drinks
 Wale:  Whet:
1. A ridge on a textured woven fabric such as 1. To sharpen the blade of a tool or weapon
corduroy 2. To excite or stimulate(a person’s desire, interest
2. A horizontal band around a woven basket or appetite)
3. (Nautical) A horizontal wooden strip fitted to
strengthen a boat’s side
 Whale: A very large mammal and the largest  Whine:
creature on earth 1. A long high-pitched complaining cry
2. A feeble or petulant complaint
 Waist: 3. To complain in a feeble or in a petulant manner
1. The part of the human body that lies below the  Wine: An alcoholic drink that is made from
ribs and above the hips fermented grape juice
2. The narrow portion in the middle of something
 Waste:  Who’s: A contraction of who is or who has
1. To use carelessly, extravagantly or without  Whose: (Interrogative) Belonging to or associated
specific purpose with which person is related
2. Be unable to make proper or good use of
3. To become progressively weaker and thinner(to
X
waste away)  Xi: The fourteenth letter of Greek alphabet,
transliterated as X
 Waive: To refrain from insisting upon or  Psi: 1. The twenty third letter of Greek alphabet,
enforcing/applying a right or claim transliterated as Ps
 Wave: 2. Supposed Para-psychological or psychic
1. To move the hand to and fro in greeting or as a faculties or phenomena
signal Y
2. Style hair so that it curls slightly  Yack: A variant spelling of Yak –denoting a trivial or
3. A ridge of water curling into an arched form and unduly persistent conversation (informal)
breaking on the shore or between two depressions  Yak: A large ox with shaggy hair, humped shoulders
in open water and large horns that is used in Tibet as a pack
4. A sudden occurrence of or increase in a specified animal and also for its meat, milk and hides
phenomenon or emotion  Yoke:
1. A wooden crosspiece fastened over the necks of
 Want: To have a desire to do or possess something two animal and attached to a plough or cart that
 Wont: Accustomed to, one’s customary behavior or pull together
habit 2. A frame fitted over the neck or shoulders of a
person, used for carrying pails or baskets
 Wet:  Yolk: The internal yellow part of a bird’s egg
1. Covered or saturated with a liquid
2. (Of paint, ink, etc…) Not yet dry or hardened

ENGLISH VOCABULARY
375
Portmanteau
Portmanteau 15
14
Words are the one that blend the sounds and the meanings of two words are called portmanteau.
1. Adflation = advertising + inflation 34. Medevac = medical + evacuation

2. Beautility = beauty + utility
3. Bit = binary + digit 35. Medicare = medical + care
4. Bitini = bitsy + bikini 36. Mobike= motor + bike
5. Blog = web + log 37. Modem = MOdulator + DEModulator
6. Bonk = bang + conk
7. Breathalyzer = breath + analyzer 38. Moped= motor + pedal
8. Brunch = breakfast + lunch 39. Motel= motor + hotel
9. Camcorder = camera + recorder 40. Motorcade= motorcar + cavalcade
10. Chortle = chuckle + snort 41. Netiquette = Internet + etiquette
11. Cremains = cremated + remains 42. Netizen = Internet + citizen
12. Chunnel= channel + tunnel 43. Newscast = news + broadcast
13. Diplonomics=diplomacy + economics 44. Oxbridge = Oxford + Cambridge
14. E-commerce = electronic + commerce 45. Paratroop = parachute + troop
15. Email= electronic + mail 46. Permalink = permanent + link
16. Faction= fact + fiction 47. Pluot = plum + apricot
17. Fantabulous= fantastic+ fabulous 48. Podcast = iPod + broadcasting
18. Fanzine= fanatic + magazine 49. Sci-Fi= science + fiction
19. Feminar= feminine + seminar 50. Sexploitation = sex + exploitation
20. Frarority= fraternity + sorority 51. Sexcercise = sex + exercise
21. Gasohol= gasoline + alcohol 52. Sexting = Sex + texting
22. Ginormous= gigantic + enormous 53. Shamateur= sham+ amateur
23. Guestimate= guess + estimate 54. Smog = smoke + fog
24. Hi-tech= high + technology 55. Splurge= splash+ surge
25. Heliport + helicopter + airport 56. Telecast= television + broadcast
26. Internet = international + network 57. Telethon = telephone (or television) + marathon
27. Interpol- international + police 58. Telecom = telephone + Communication(s)
28. Jackpot= jack + pot 59. Televangelist= television + evangelist
29. Jaywalk= jay + walk 60. Toughicult = tough + difficult
30. Jerkwater = jerk + water 61. Transistor= transfer + resistor
31. Joypad= joystick + pad 62. Vash= volcanic + ash
32. Laundromat = laundry + automat 63. Webinar = web + seminar
33. Manimal = man + animal 64. Workfar= work + welfare

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1 Exam Oriented Day to Day Vocabulary 1

Exam Oriented Day to Day

1. Firmly (Adverb) Synonyms: unpredicted, unexpected,

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21. Scrap (Noun)

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Definition: a small piece or amount of Antonyms: dishearten, discourage

32. Beset (Verb) Definition: (of a problem or difficulty) trouble

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36. Bureaucratic (Adjective) 42. Filth (Noun)

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Definition: a mass departure of people. Antonyms: discourage, prevention, block.

68. Prognosis(Noun) 74. Overawe (Verb)

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Synonyms: laughable, absurd, comical, funny, Synonyms: claim, assertion, declaration,

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87. Internalize (Verb) 93. Vague (Adjective)

89. Efficacy (Noun) 95. Interning (Verb)

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Synonyms: consequence, result, effect, outcome, 104. Crunch (Noun)

100. Glaring (Adjective) 106. Incumbent (Adjective)

103. Shaky (Adjective) 109. Ousting (Verb)

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110. Premises (Noun) Synonyms: precipitous, sheer, abrupt, sharp,

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Synonyms: geniality, congeniality, conviviality, 138. Legitimate (Adjective)

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Synonyms: indefensible, undependable, Antonyms: Warrant, Demonstrate, Establish,

145. Unsavory (adjective) 150. Stature (Noun)

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Synonyms: Anger, Jeopardy, Risk, 184. Clout (Noun)

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190. Irk (Verb) 196. Clamour (Verb)

191. Hobble (Verb) 197. Emasculate (Verb)

195. Spectacular (Adjective) 201. Condign (Adjective)

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204. Freakish (Adjective) 210. Depiction (Noun)

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213. Bygone (Adjective) Antonyms: Abstain, Be honest, Disbelieve

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a standard scale of readings. Usage: On growth, the monetary authority has

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Definition: Delaying or delayed beyond the right 251. Fugitive (Adjective)

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257. Tacit (Adjective) 263. Notorious (Adjective)

258. Scourge (Noun) 264. Morbid (Adjective)