All Verbs
Complete verb vocabulary from all CEFR levels in alphabetical order with definitions and example sentences.
abandon
To leave somebody, especially somebody you are responsible for, with no intention of returning.
Example
The baby had been abandoned by its mother.
abate
To become less intense, severe, or widespread.
Example
The storm finally abated after three days of relentless rain.
abdicate
To renounce a throne, high office, or responsibility, especially in a formal manner.
Example
The king abdicated in favour of his eldest son after decades of rule.
abet
To encourage or assist someone in doing something wrong or criminal.
Example
She was charged with aiding and abetting the fraud scheme.
abhor
To regard with intense disgust or hatred.
Example
He abhorred any form of cruelty and dedicated his life to animal welfare.
abjure
To solemnly renounce or repudiate a belief, cause, or claim.
Example
Under pressure from the tribunal, he abjured his heretical views.
abolish
To officially end a law, a system or an institution.
Example
This tax should be abolished.
abrogate
To repeal or formally abolish a law, treaty, or agreement.
Example
The new government moved swiftly to abrogate the controversial trade agreement.
abscond
To leave hurriedly and secretly, typically to avoid legal consequences.
Example
The embezzler absconded with company funds before the audit could be completed.
absolve
To formally declare someone free from guilt, obligation, or punishment.
Example
The court absolved him of all charges owing to insufficient evidence.
absorb
To take in a liquid, gas or other substance from the surface or space around.
Example
Plants absorb carbon dioxide from the air.
abstain
To restrain oneself from doing or enjoying something, or to refrain from voting.
Example
Three members of the committee abstained during the final vote on the resolution.
abuse
To make bad use of something, or to use so much of something that it harms your health.
Example
to abuse alcohol/drugs
accede
To agree to a demand, request, or treaty; or to assume an office or position.
Example
The government eventually acceded to the protesters' demands for reform.
accelerate
To happen faster or earlier; to make something happen faster or earlier.
Example
Inflation continues to accelerate.
accentuate
To make a feature or quality more noticeable or prominent.
Example
The documentary accentuated the stark inequalities present in the healthcare system.
accept
To take willingly something that is offered; to say ‘yes’ to an offer, invitation, etc.
Example
He asked me to marry him and I accepted.
accommodate
To provide somebody with a room or place to sleep, live or sit.
Example
The hotel can accommodate up to 500 guests.
accompany
To travel or go somewhere with somebody/something.
Example
His wife accompanied him on the trip.
accomplish
To succeed in doing or completing something.
Example
The first part of the plan has been safely accomplished.
accost
To approach and address someone in an aggressive or bold manner.
Example
Journalists accosted the minister outside the conference hall, demanding an explanation.
accredit
To give official recognition or approval to an institution, person, or claim.
Example
The university was accredited by the national education authority after rigorous review.
accrue
To accumulate or receive increasing amounts of money, advantages, or harm over time.
Example
Interest on the investment accrued steadily over the five-year period.
accumulate
To gradually get more and more of something over a period of time.
Example
I seem to have accumulated a lot of books.
accuse
To say that somebody has done something wrong or is guilty of something.
Example
The police accused him of stealing the car.
achieve
To succeed in reaching a particular goal, status or standard, especially by making an effort for a long time.
Example
He had finally achieved success.
acknowledge
To accept that something is true.
Example
She refuses to acknowledge the need for reform.
acquiesce
To accept or comply with something reluctantly but without protest.
Example
She acquiesced to her manager's decision despite privately disagreeing with it.
acquire
To gain something by your own efforts, ability or behaviour.
Example
She has acquired a good knowledge of English.
acquit
To formally declare someone not guilty of a criminal charge.
Example
The jury acquitted the defendant after deliberating for less than two hours.
activate
To make something such as a device or chemical process start working.
Example
The burglar alarm is activated by movement.
adapt
To change your behaviour in order to deal more successfully with a new situation.
Example
It's amazing how soon you adapt.
add
To put something together with something else so as to increase the size, number, amount, etc.
Example
Next add the flour.
adhere
To stick to something.
Example
Once in the bloodstream, the bacteria adhere to the surface of the red cells.
adjust
To change something slightly to make it more suitable for a new set of conditions or to make it work better.
Example
Watch out for sharp bends and adjust your speed accordingly.
administer
To manage and organize the affairs of a company, an organization, a country, etc.
Example
to administer a charity/fund/school
admire
To respect somebody for what they have done or to respect their qualities.
Example
I really admire your enthusiasm.
admit
To agree, often unwillingly, that something is true.
Example
It was a stupid thing to do, I admit.
admonish
To warn or reprimand someone firmly but not harshly.
Example
The judge admonished the witness for repeatedly failing to answer directly.
advance
If knowledge, technology, etc. advances, it develops and improves.
Example
Technology is advancing at an incredibly rapid pace.
advertise
To tell the public about a product or a service in order to encourage people to buy or to use it.
Example
If you want to attract customers you need to advertise.
advise
To tell somebody what you think they should do in a particular situation.
Example
I would strongly advise against going out on your own.
advocate
To support something publicly.
Example
The group does not advocate the use of violence.
agree
To have the same opinion as somebody; to say that you have the same opinion.
Example
When he said that, I had to agree.
aid
To help somebody/something to do something, especially by making it easier.
Example
The test is designed to aid in the diagnosis of various diseases.
alert
To warn somebody about a dangerous situation or one that requires immediate action.
Example
Neighbours quickly alerted the emergency services.
align
To arrange something in the correct position, or to be in the correct position, in relation to something else, especially in a straight line.
Example
Make sure the shelf is aligned with the top of the cupboard.
allege
To state something as a fact but without giving proof.
Example
The prosecution alleges (that) she was driving carelessly.
alleviate
To make suffering, deficiency, or a problem less severe.
Example
The new policy was designed to alleviate poverty in rural communities.
allocate
To give something officially to somebody/something for a particular purpose.
Example
A large sum has been allocated for buying new books for the library.
allude
To refer to something indirectly rather than stating it explicitly.
Example
In her speech, she alluded to the corruption scandal without naming anyone directly.
alter
To become different; to make somebody/something different.
Example
Prices did not alter significantly during 2019.
ameliorate
To make something bad or unsatisfactory better; to improve.
Example
Several measures were introduced to ameliorate the conditions in the overcrowded prisons.
amend
To change a law, document, statement, etc. slightly in order to correct a mistake or to improve it.
Example
He asked to see the amended version.
analyze
Examine methodically and in detail the constitution or structure of (something, especially information), typically for purposes of explanation and interpretation.
Example
We need to analyze the data carefully.
anger
To make someone feel angry.
Example
The decision angered local residents.
announce
To tell people something officially, especially about a decision, plans, etc.
Example
He officially announced his intention to resign at today's press conference.
annoy
To make somebody slightly angry.
Example
His constant joking was beginning to annoy her.
antagonise
To cause someone to feel hostile or opposed; to provoke antagonism.
Example
His dismissive remarks antagonised even those who had initially supported him.
anticipate
To expect something.
Example
We don't anticipate any major problems.
apologize
To say that you are sorry for doing something wrong or causing a problem.
Example
Why should I apologize?
appear
To start to be seen.
Example
Three days later a rash appeared.
appease
To pacify or placate someone by acceding to their demands, often at a cost.
Example
Critics argued that the concessions were merely an attempt to appease the opposition.
applaud
To show your approval of somebody/something by clapping your hands (= hitting your open hands together several times).
Example
He started to applaud and the others joined in.
apply
To make a formal request, usually in writing, for something such as a job, a loan, permission for something, a place at a university, etc.
Example
You should apply in person/by letter.
appoint
To choose somebody for a job or position of responsibility.
Example
They have appointed a new head teacher at my son's school.
approach
To come near to somebody/something in distance or time.
Example
We could hear the train approaching.
approve
To think that somebody/something is good, acceptable or suitable.
Example
I told my mother I wanted to leave school but she didn't approve.
arise
To happen; to start to exist.
Example
An opportunity arose to work in the United States.
arrest
If the police arrest somebody, the person is taken to a police station and kept there because the police believe they may be guilty of a crime.
Example
A man has been arrested in connection with the robbery.
arrive
To get to a place, especially at the end of a journey.
Example
I'll wait until they arrive.
articulate
To express or explain your thoughts or feelings clearly in words.
Example
She struggled to articulate her thoughts.
ascertain
To find out something with certainty, through investigation or inquiry.
Example
Investigators worked to ascertain the precise cause of the structural failure.
assemble
To come together as a group; to bring people or things together as a group.
Example
All the students were asked to assemble in the main hall.
assert
To state clearly and definitely that something is true.
Example
She continued to assert that she was innocent.
assign
To give somebody something that they can use, or some work or responsibility.
Example
The teacher assigned a different task to each of the children.
assuage
To make an unpleasant feeling less intense; to soothe or relieve.
Example
No amount of reassurance could assuage her growing sense of dread.
assume
To think or accept that something is true but without having proof of it.
Example
It is reasonable to assume (that) the economy will continue to improve.
assure
To tell somebody that something is definitely true or is definitely going to happen, especially when they have doubts about it.
Example
You think I did it deliberately, but I assure you (that) I did not.
atone
To make amends or reparation for a wrongdoing or sin.
Example
He spent the remainder of his life trying to atone for the betrayal of his colleagues.
attack
To use violence to try to hurt or kill somebody.
Example
Most dogs will not attack unless provoked.
attain
To succeed in getting something, usually after a lot of effort.
Example
Most of our students attained five ‘A’ grades in their exams.
attempt
To make an effort or try to do something, especially something difficult.
Example
I will attempt to answer all your questions.
attend
To be present at an event.
Example
We'd like as many people as possible to attend.
attract
If you are attracted by something, it interests you and makes you want it; if you are attracted by somebody, you like or admire them.
Example
I had always been attracted by the idea of working abroad.
attribute
To say or believe that something is the result of a particular thing.
Example
She attributes her success to hard work and a little luck.
augment
To make something greater by adding to it; to increase or supplement.
Example
The foundation augmented the research budget to accelerate development of the vaccine.
authorize
To give official permission for something, or for somebody to do something.
Example
I can authorize payments up to £5 000.
avoid
To prevent something bad from happening.
Example
She avoided the busy road by taking a shortcut.
await
To wait for somebody/something.
Example
He is in custody awaiting trial.
bake
To cook food in an oven without extra fat or liquid; to be cooked in this way.
Example
My grandmother bakes the best chocolate cake.
balk
To hesitate or refuse to proceed with something disagreeable or daunting.
Example
Several senior executives balked at the proposal to restructure the entire division.
ban
To decide or say officially that something is not allowed.
Example
The law effectively bans smoking in all public places.
bargain
To discuss prices or conditions in order to reach an agreement that both sides accept.
Example
She bargained with the seller and got the price down.
bat
To hit a ball with a bat, especially in a game of baseball or cricket.
Example
He bats very well.
be
Used when you are naming people or things, describing them or giving more information about them.
Example
Today is Monday.
beat
To defeat somebody in a game or competition.
Example
He beat me at chess.
become
To start to be something.
Example
It soon became apparent that no one was going to come.
beg
To ask somebody for something especially in an anxious way because you want or need it very much.
Example
Now you have to beg and plead.
beguile
To charm or enchant someone, sometimes in a deceptive way.
Example
The diplomat's eloquence beguiled the assembled delegates into accepting the terms.
behave
To do things in a particular way.
Example
The doctor behaved very unprofessionally.
beleaguer
To put in a very difficult situation; to besiege or harass persistently.
Example
The beleaguered administration faced mounting criticism from all political quarters.
belie
To give a false impression of something, or to fail to justify.
Example
His calm exterior belied the intense anxiety he felt before the announcement.
believe
To feel certain that something is true or that somebody is telling you the truth.
Example
I don't believe you!
belong
To be in the right or suitable place.
Example
Where do these plates belong (= where are they kept)?
bemoan
To express discontent or sorrow about something; to lament.
Example
Scholars have long bemoaned the lack of funding for the humanities.
bend
To lean, or make something lean, in a particular direction.
Example
He bent and kissed her.
bequeath
To leave property or a quality to someone after one's death; to pass on.
Example
She bequeathed her entire art collection to the national gallery.
berate
To scold or rebuke someone angrily and at length.
Example
The director publicly berated the team for missing the critical deadline.
beseech
To ask urgently and fervently for something; to implore or beg.
Example
The refugees beseeched the authorities to grant them temporary asylum.
beset
To trouble or harass someone or something persistently from all sides.
Example
The project was beset by technical difficulties and budget overruns from the outset.
bestow
To present an honour, gift, or right to someone in a formal manner.
Example
The university bestowed an honorary doctorate upon the celebrated author.
betray
To give information about somebody/something to an enemy.
Example
He was offered money to betray his colleagues.
bid
To offer to pay a particular price for something, especially at an auction.
Example
I bid £2 000 for the painting.
billow
To fill with air and swell outward, or to roll in large waves.
Example
Smoke billowed from the factory chimney, darkening the afternoon sky.
bind
To tie somebody/something with rope, string, etc. so that they/it cannot move or are held together strongly.
Example
She was bound to a chair.
bleed
To lose blood, especially from a wound or an injury.
Example
My finger's bleeding.
blend
To mix two or more substances together.
Example
blend A with B, Blend the flour with the milk to make a smooth paste.
bless
To ask God to protect somebody/something.
Example
They brought the children to Jesus and he blessed them.
blind
Not able to see.
Example
Doctors think he will go blind.
blow
To send out air from the mouth.
Example
You're not blowing hard enough!
boil
When a liquid boils or when you boil it, it is heated to the point where it forms bubbles and turns to steam or vapour.
Example
The water was bubbling and boiling away.
bond
Something that forms a connection between people or groups, such as a feeling of friendship or shared ideas and experiences.
Example
the bond that links us
border
To share a border with another country or area.
Example
the countries bordering the Baltic
born
To come out of your mother’s body at the beginning of your life.
Example
I was born in 1976.
borrow
To take and use something that belongs to somebody else, and return it to them at a later time.
Example
Can I borrow your umbrella?
bounce
If something bounces or you bounce it, it moves quickly away from a surface it has just hit or you make it do this.
Example
The ball bounced twice before he could reach it.
bound
Certain or likely to happen, or to do or be something.
Example
There are bound to be changes when the new system is introduced.
bow
To move your head or the top half of your body forwards and downwards as a sign of respect or to say hello or goodbye.
Example
He bowed low to the assembled crowd.
bowl
To roll or throw a ball as part of the game of bowling or cricket.
Example
She bowled the ball straight down the lane and knocked over all the pins.
box
To fight an opponent as a sport while wearing thick padded gloves.
Example
He learned to box at a local gym when he was a teenager.
branch
To divide into two or more parts that go in different directions.
Example
The road branches off to the left just past the bridge.
brandish
To wave or flourish a weapon or object as a threat or in anger.
Example
The assailant brandished a knife before fleeing into the crowd.
brave
To deal with something unpleasant or dangerous in order to achieve something.
Example
They braved the rain to walk to the station.
break
To be damaged and separated into two or more parts, as a result of force; to damage something in this way.
Example
All the windows broke with the force of the blast.
breed
To have sex and produce young.
Example
Many animals breed only at certain times of the year.
bring
To come to a place with somebody/something.
Example
Don't forget to bring your books with you.
broadcast
To send out programmes on television or radio.
Example
The concert will be broadcast live (= at the same time as it takes place) tomorrow evening.
bubble
To produce or rise in bubbles; to make a sound like water boiling.
Example
The soup was bubbling gently on the stove.
budget
To plan carefully how much money you can spend on something over a period of time.
Example
We budgeted £100 a month for groceries.
bug
Any small insect.
Example
There's a bug crawling up your arm.
build
To make something, especially a building, by putting parts together.
Example
They have permission to build 200 new homes.
bunch
To form into a tight group, or to make something form a tight group.
Example
The runners bunched together as they came around the final bend.
burgeon
To begin to grow or increase rapidly; to flourish.
Example
The city's tech sector burgeoned following the influx of venture capital investment.
burn
To produce flames and heat.
Example
A welcoming fire was burning in the fireplace.
burst
To break open or apart, especially because of pressure from inside; to make something break in this way.
Example
That balloon will burst if you blow it up any more.
bury
To place a dead body in the ground.
Example
They killed her and buried her body.
button
To fasten a piece of clothing using buttons.
Example
Button up your coat — it’s cold outside.
buttress
To increase the strength of or give support to an argument, system, or position.
Example
The newly discovered documents buttressed the historian's controversial thesis.
cajole
To persuade someone by sustained flattery or coaxing.
Example
She managed to cajole the reluctant witnesses into testifying before the committee.
calculate
To use numbers to find out a total number, amount, distance, etc.
Example
An independent valuer will calculate the value of your property.
call
To give somebody/something a particular name; to use a particular name or title when you are talking to somebody.
Example
They decided to call the baby Mark.
can
Used to say that it is possible for someone to do something, or that someone has the ability or permission to do something.
Example
Can you swim? Yes, I can.
cancel
To decide that something that has been arranged will not now take place.
Example
All flights have been cancelled because of bad weather.
cannot
Used to say that you are not able to do something or that something is not possible.
Example
I cannot believe the price of the tickets!
capitulate
To cease resisting an opponent or an unwelcome demand; to yield.
Example
After months of negotiation, the company capitulated to the union's wage demands.
carry
To support the weight of somebody/something and take them or it from place to place; to take somebody/something from one place to another.
Example
He was carrying a large bag.
carve
To make objects, patterns, etc. by cutting away material from a piece of wood or stone, or another hard material.
Example
a carved doorway
cast
To look, smile, etc. in a particular direction.
Example
She cast a welcoming smile in his direction.
castigate
To reprimand or criticise someone severely.
Example
The editorial castigated the senator for his role in the financial scandal.
catch
To stop and hold a moving object or person, especially in your hands.
Example
She managed to catch the keys as they fell.
cater
To provide food and drinks for a social event.
Example
(British English), cater for somebody/something, Most of our work now involves catering for weddings.
cease
To stop happening or existing; to stop something from happening or existing.
Example
Welfare payments cease as soon as an individual starts a job.
change
To become different.
Example
Rick hasn't changed. He looks exactly the same as he did at school.
characterize
To be typical of a person, place or thing.
Example
the rolling hills that characterize this part of England
charge
To ask an amount of money for goods or a service.
Example
The fees charged by some companies are excessive.
chase
To run, drive, etc. after somebody/something in order to catch them or it.
Example
My dog likes chasing rabbits.
chastise
To rebuke or reprimand someone severely.
Example
The coach chastised the players for their lack of discipline during the match.
check
To examine something to see if it is correct, safe or acceptable.
Example
She gave me the minutes of the meeting to read and check.
cheer
To shout loudly, in order to show support or praise for somebody, or to encourage them.
Example
We all cheered as the team came on to the field.
chide
To scold or rebuke mildly.
Example
She chided him gently for arriving late to the meeting without prior notice.
choose
To decide which thing or person you want out of the ones that are available.
Example
You choose—I can't decide.
chop
To cut something into pieces with a sharp tool such as a knife.
Example
He was chopping logs for firewood.
circulate
When a liquid, gas or air circulates or is circulated, it moves continuously around a place or system.
Example
The condition prevents the blood from circulating freely.
circumvent
To find a way around an obstacle, rule, or problem.
Example
The corporation employed elaborate schemes to circumvent domestic tax regulations.
cite
To mention something as a reason or an example, or in order to support what you are saying.
Example
She cited examples of companies the city has helped relocate or expand.
claim
To say that something is true although it has not been proved and other people may not believe it.
Example
He claims (that) he was not given a fair hearing.
clarify
To make something clearer or easier to understand.
Example
Could you clarify what you mean by that?
clash
To come into open conflict, argument, or violent opposition with someone or something.
Example
Police clashed with protesters outside the courthouse.
classify
To arrange something in groups according to features that they have in common.
Example
The books in the library are classified according to subject.
clean
To remove the dirt or dust from something.
Example
I spent all day cooking and cleaning.
cleave
To split or sever something with a sharp instrument, or to adhere strongly to.
Example
The glacier's movement had cleaved the rock face in two over centuries.
climb
To go up something towards the top.
Example
The children climbed to the top of the hill.
clip
To cut something with scissors or shears, or to fasten something in place using a clip.
Example
She clipped the article from the newspaper to keep for later.
close
To put something into a position so that it covers an opening; to get into this position.
Example
He closed the door firmly.
coach
To train somebody to play a sport, to do a job better, or to improve a skill.
Example
He has coached the team for five years.
coalesce
To come together to form a single whole; to merge or unite.
Example
Several factions eventually coalesced into a unified opposition movement.
coerce
To persuade someone to do something by using force or threats.
Example
Witnesses reported being coerced into signing false statements by the authorities.
coincide
To take place at the same time.
Example
It's a pity our trips to New York don't coincide.
collaborate
To work together with somebody in order to produce or achieve something.
Example
Researchers around the world are collaborating to develop a new vaccine.
collapse
To fall down or fall in suddenly, often after breaking apart.
Example
The roof collapsed under the weight of snow.
collect
To bring things together from different people or places.
Example
I collect stamps from different countries.
collude
To cooperate secretly or illegally in order to deceive or defraud others.
Example
The companies were found to have colluded in fixing prices across the industry.
combat
To stop something unpleasant or harmful from happening or from getting worse.
Example
measures to combat crime/inflation/unemployment/disease
come
To move to or towards a person or place.
Example
He left and said he was never coming back.
command
To tell somebody to do something.
Example
He commanded his men to retreat.
commence
To begin to happen; to begin something.
Example
The meeting is scheduled to commence at noon.
comment
To express an opinion about something.
Example
He refused to comment until after the trial.
commiserate
To express sympathy or sorrow for someone's misfortune.
Example
Colleagues gathered to commiserate with her after the project was unexpectedly cancelled.
commission
To officially ask somebody to write, make or create something or to do a task for you.
Example
She has been commissioned to write a new national anthem.
commit
To do something wrong or illegal.
Example
to commit a crime/an offence
compel
To force somebody to do something; to make something necessary.
Example
The law can compel fathers to make regular payments for their children.
compensate
To provide something good to balance or reduce the bad effects of damage, loss, etc.
Example
Nothing can compensate for the loss of a loved one.
compete
To take part in a contest or game.
Example
The games were an outstanding success, with almost 2 400 athletes competing.
compile
To produce a book, list, report, etc. by bringing together different items, articles, songs, etc.; to collect information in order to produce a book, list, etc.
Example
We are trying to compile a list of suitable people for the job.
complain
To say that you are annoyed, unhappy or not satisfied about somebody/something.
Example
She never complains, but she's obviously exhausted.
complement
To add to something in a way that improves it or makes it more attractive.
Example
The excellent menu is complemented by a good wine list.
complete
To finish making or doing something.
Example
to complete a course/project
comply
To obey a rule, an order, etc.; to meet particular standards.
Example
They refused to comply with the UN resolution.
comprise
To have somebody/something as parts or members.
Example
The collection comprises 327 paintings.
compromise
To give up some of your demands in order to reach an agreement after disagreeing with somebody.
Example
Neither side is prepared to compromise.
compute
To calculate something.
Example
The losses were computed at £5 million.
conceal
To hide somebody/something.
Example
The paintings were concealed beneath a thick layer of plaster.
concede
To admit that something is true, logical, etc. after first denying it or resisting it.
Example
‘Not bad,’ she conceded grudgingly.
conceive
To form an idea, a plan, etc. in your mind.
Example
He conceived the idea of transforming the old power station into an arts centre.
concern
To affect somebody/something; to involve somebody/something.
Example
Don't interfere in what doesn't concern you.
conclude
To decide or believe something as a result of what you have heard or seen.
Example
It is too early for us to conclude anything.
condemn
To say very strongly that you think something is bad, usually for moral reasons.
Example
The government issued a statement condemning the killings.
condone
To accept or allow behaviour considered morally wrong to continue.
Example
The administration was accused of condoning corruption within its own ranks.
conduct
To organize and/or do a particular activity.
Example
to conduct an experiment/inquiry/investigation/interview
confer
To discuss something with somebody, in order to exchange opinions or get advice.
Example
He wanted to confer with his colleagues before reaching a decision.
confine
To keep somebody/something inside the limits of a particular activity, subject, area, etc.
Example
The work will not be confined to the Glasgow area.
confirm
To state or show that something is definitely true or correct, especially by providing evidence.
Example
His guilty expression confirmed my suspicions.
confiscate
To take or seize property by authority.
Example
Customs officers confiscated several undeclared items at the border.
conflict
If two ideas, beliefs, stories, etc. conflict, it is not possible for them to exist together or for them both to be true.
Example
Reports conflicted on how much of the aid was reaching the famine victims.
confound
To cause surprise or confusion in someone; to prove someone wrong.
Example
The unexpected election result confounded every pollster and political analyst.
confront
To appear and need to be dealt with by somebody.
Example
What is to be done about the economic problems confronting the country?
confuse
To make somebody unable to think clearly or understand something.
Example
These two sets of statistics are guaranteed to confuse the public.
conjure
To make something appear unexpectedly or as if by magic; to call to mind.
Example
The novelist conjures vivid scenes of pre-war Vienna with remarkable precision.
connect
To join together two or more things; to be joined together.
Example
connect A and B, The towns are connected by train and bus services.
connive
To secretly allow or plan wrongdoing; to plot or conspire.
Example
Senior officials were alleged to have connived in the cover-up of the disaster.
conquer
To take control of a country or city and its people by force.
Example
The Normans conquered England in 1066.
conserve
To protect something and prevent it from being changed or destroyed.
Example
new laws to conserve wildlife in the area
consider
To think about something carefully, especially in order to make a decision.
Example
I'd like some time to consider.
consist
To be made up of two or more things or people.
Example
The committee consists of twelve members.
consolidate
To make a position of power or success stronger so that it is more likely to continue.
Example
With this new movie he has consolidated his position as the country's leading director.
constitute
To be considered to be something.
Example
Does such an activity constitute a criminal offence?
construct
To build or make something such as a road, building or machine.
Example
The building was constructed in 1993.
construe
To interpret or understand something in a particular way.
Example
His silence was widely construed as an admission of guilt.
consult
To go to somebody for information or advice.
Example
If the pain continues, consult your doctor.
consume
To use something, especially fuel, energy or time.
Example
The electricity industry consumes large amounts of fossil fuels.
contact
To communicate with somebody, for example by phone, letter or email.
Example
I've been trying to contact you all day.
contain
If something contains something else, it has that thing inside it or as part of it.
Example
This drink doesn't contain any alcohol.
contemplate
To think about whether you should do something, or how you should do something.
Example
You're too young to be contemplating retirement.
contend
To say that something is true, especially in an argument.
Example
I would contend that the minister's thinking is flawed on this point.
contest
To take part in a competition, election, etc. and try to win it.
Example
Three candidates contested the leadership.
continue
To keep existing or happening without stopping.
Example
If the current trend continues, that number will increase 165 per cent by 2050.
contrast
To compare two things in order to show the differences between them.
Example
contrast A and B, The poem contrasts youth and age.
contravene
To conflict with or violate a rule, law, or principle.
Example
The new legislation was found to contravene international human rights standards.
contribute
To give something, especially money or goods, to help achieve or provide something.
Example
Do you wish to contribute?
control
To have power over a person, company, country, etc. so that you are able to decide what they must do or how it is run.
Example
By the age of 21 he controlled the company.
convene
To call people together for a meeting or other activity.
Example
An emergency session of parliament was convened to address the constitutional crisis.
convey
To make ideas, feelings, etc. known to somebody.
Example
Colours like red convey a sense of energy and strength.
convict
To decide and state officially in court that somebody is guilty of a crime.
Example
He was convicted of fraud.
cook
To prepare food by heating it, for example by boiling, baking or frying it.
Example
Where did you learn to cook?
cooperate
To work together with somebody else in order to achieve something.
Example
The two groups agreed to cooperate with each other.
coordinate
To organize the different parts of an activity and the people involved in it so that it works well.
Example
They appointed a new manager to coordinate the work of the team.
cope
To deal successfully with something difficult.
Example
I got to the stage where I wasn't coping any more.
copy
To make something that is exactly like something else.
Example
He taught himself by copying paintings in the Louvre.
correct
To make something right or accurate, for example by changing it or removing mistakes.
Example
The teacher corrected my spelling mistakes.
correlate
If two or more facts, figures, etc. correlate or if a fact, figure, etc. correlates with another, the facts are closely connected and affect or depend on each other.
Example
The figures do not seem to correlate.
correspond
To be the same as or match something.
Example
Your account and hers do not correspond.
corroborate
To confirm or give support to a statement, theory, or finding.
Example
Forensic evidence corroborated the eyewitness accounts provided by three separate witnesses.
cost
If something costs a particular amount of money, you need to pay that amount in order to buy, make or do it.
Example
How much did it cost?
cough
Expel air from the lungs with a sudden sharp sound.
Example
He started to cough because of the smoke.
could
Used as the past tense of ‘can’.
Example
She said that she couldn't come.
count
To say numbers in the correct order.
Example
Billy can't count yet.
countenance
To admit as acceptable; to give approval or tolerance to something.
Example
The committee refused to countenance any further delays to the inquiry.
counter
To reply to somebody by trying to prove that what they said is not true.
Example
Such arguments are not easily countered.
cover
To place something over or in front of something in order to hide, protect or decorate it.
Example
Cover the chicken loosely with foil.
covet
To yearn to possess something belonging to another person.
Example
He had long coveted the editorial position that his rival now occupied.
crack
To break without dividing into separate parts; to break something in this way.
Example
The ice cracked as I stepped onto it.
craft
To make something using special skills, especially with your hands.
Example
All the furniture is crafted from natural materials.
crash
If a vehicle crashes or the driver crashes it, it hits an object or another vehicle, causing damage.
Example
I was terrified that the plane would crash.
crawl
To move forward on your hands and knees or with your body close to the ground.
Example
Our baby is just starting to crawl.
create
To make something happen or exist.
Example
Scientists disagree about how the universe was created.
credit
To add an amount of money to somebody’s bank account.
Example
They credited my account two days later.
creep
To move slowly, quietly and carefully, because you do not want to be seen or heard.
Example
I crept up the stairs, trying not to wake my parents.
cross
To go across; to pass or stretch from one side to the other.
Example
As soon as traffic slowed down enough to safely cross, I started walking.
cruise
To travel in a ship or boat visiting different places, especially as a holiday.
Example
They cruised down the Nile.
crush
To press something so hard that it is damaged or injured, or loses its shape.
Example
The car was completely crushed under the truck.
cry
To produce tears from your eyes because you are unhappy or hurt.
Example
It's all right. Don't cry.
cue
To give someone a signal that tells them when to begin, especially in performance or speech.
Example
The director cued the actor to enter the stage.
culminate
To reach a climax or point of highest development.
Example
Years of painstaking research culminated in a groundbreaking scientific publication.
cultivate
To prepare and use land for growing plants or crops.
Example
The land around here has never been cultivated.
cure
To make a person or an animal healthy again after an illness.
Example
Will you be able to cure him, Doctor?
curtail
To reduce in extent or quantity; to impose a restriction on.
Example
Severe funding cuts forced the institute to curtail several of its research programmes.
curve
To move or make something move in the shape of a curve; to be in the shape of a curve.
Example
a curving staircase
cut
To make an opening or a wound in something, especially with a sharp tool such as a knife or scissors.
Example
She cut her finger on a piece of glass.
cycle
To ride a bicycle; to travel by bicycle.
Example
measures to encourage more people to cycle
damage
To have a bad or harmful effect on something/somebody.
Example
The church was badly damaged by the 1997 earthquake.
dance
To move your body to the sound and rhythm of music.
Example
Do you want to dance?
date
To write or print the date on something.
Example
Thank you for your letter dated 24th March.
dawdle
To waste time; to move slowly or take longer than necessary.
Example
There was no time to dawdle if they were to reach the summit before nightfall.
debate
To discuss something, especially formally, before making a decision or finding a solution.
Example
Politicians will be debating the bill later this week.
debilitate
To make someone very weak and infirm; to impair the strength of.
Example
The prolonged illness debilitated him to the point where he could no longer work.
debunk
To expose the falseness or hollowness of a myth, belief, or idea.
Example
The researcher debunked several long-held assumptions about early human migration patterns.
decide
To think carefully about the different possibilities that are available and choose one of them.
Example
It's up to you to decide.
decimate
To kill, destroy, or remove a large proportion of something.
Example
The disease decimated the wild bee population across large parts of the continent.
declare
To say something officially or publicly.
Example
The government has declared a state of emergency.
decorate
To make something look more attractive by putting things on it.
Example
They decorated the room with flowers and balloons.
decrease
To become smaller in size, number, etc.; to make something smaller in size, number, etc.
Example
Donations have decreased significantly over the past few years.
decry
To publicly denounce something as wrong or unacceptable.
Example
Human rights organisations decried the government's crackdown on peaceful demonstrations.
deem
To have a particular opinion about somebody/something.
Example
The evening was deemed a great success.
defeat
To win against somebody in a war, competition, sports game, etc.
Example
He defeated the champion in three sets.
defend
To protect somebody/something from attack.
Example
The role of the military is to defend the country.
deflate
To reduce the confidence, enthusiasm, or conceit of someone; or to release air from.
Example
His cutting remark deflated the mood of what had been an optimistic briefing.
dehort
To advise or urge someone against a particular course of action.
Example
The elder statesman dehorted his protege from making any premature public statements.
deign
To do something that one considers beneath one's dignity.
Example
He rarely deigned to acknowledge junior colleagues in the corridor.
delay
To make somebody/something late or force them to do something more slowly.
Example
My flight was delayed.
delegate
To give part of your work, power, or responsibility to another person, usually someone less senior.
Example
A good manager knows how to delegate tasks effectively.
deliberate
Done on purpose rather than by accident.
Example
a deliberate act of vandalism
delineate
To describe or portray something precisely; to indicate the exact limits of.
Example
The treaty delineated the maritime boundaries between the two nations.
deliver
To take goods, letters, etc. to the person or people they have been sent to.
Example
I get my food delivered from the supermarket to save time.
demand
To make a very strong request for something.
Example
They are demanding the release of all political prisoners.
demean
To cause someone to lose dignity and self-respect.
Example
Such demeaning treatment of employees was wholly at odds with the company's stated values.
demonstrate
To show something clearly by giving proof or evidence.
Example
New research convincingly demonstrates that age-related memory loss is not inevitable.
demur
To raise objections or show reluctance; to hesitate.
Example
When asked to sign the agreement, she demurred, citing unresolved legal concerns.
denigrate
To criticise unfairly; to disparage the character or reputation of.
Example
The campaign denigrated the opponent's record without providing substantive policy alternatives.
denounce
To strongly criticize somebody/something that you think is wrong, illegal, etc.
Example
She publicly denounced the government's handling of the crisis.
deny
To say that something is not true.
Example
He denied all the accusations against him.
depart
To leave a place, especially to start a trip.
Example
depart (for…) (from…), Flights for Rome depart from Terminal 3.
depend
According to.
Example
Starting salary varies from £26 000 to £30 500, depending on experience.
depict
To show an image of somebody/something in a picture.
Example
a painting depicting the Virgin and Child
deplete
To reduce the amount of something significantly; to exhaust the supply of.
Example
Overfishing has severely depleted the stocks of several commercial species.
deplore
To feel or express strong condemnation of something.
Example
The international community deplored the attacks on civilian infrastructure.
deploy
To move soldiers or weapons into a position where they are ready for military action.
Example
2 000 troops were deployed in the area.
deposit
To put money into a bank account.
Example
Millions were deposited in Swiss bank accounts.
deprive
To prevent someone from having or doing something, especially something important or necessary.
Example
The new law would deprive citizens of their basic rights.
deride
To express contempt for; to mock or ridicule.
Example
Critics derided the proposal as wholly impractical and financially reckless.
derive
To get something from a particular source, or to obtain a feeling or quality from something.
Example
She derives great pleasure from gardening.
descend
To come or go down from a higher to a lower level.
Example
The plane began to descend.
describe
To say what somebody/something is like.
Example
The next section describes our findings in detail.
desecrate
To treat a sacred place or thing with great disrespect.
Example
Vandals desecrated the ancient cemetery by destroying several historical monuments.
deserve
To do something or show qualities that mean a particular reaction, reward or punishment is appropriate.
Example
You deserve a rest after all that hard work.
design
To decide how something will look, work, etc., by drawing plans, making computer models, etc.
Example
He designed and built his own house.
designate
To say officially that somebody/something has a particular character or name; to describe somebody/something in a particular way.
Example
This area has been designated (as) a National Park.
desire
To want something; to wish for something.
Example
We all desire health and happiness.
destroy
To damage something so badly that it no longer exists, works, etc.
Example
The building was completely destroyed by fire.
detain
To keep somebody in an official place, such as a police station, a prison or a hospital, and prevent them from leaving.
Example
One man has been detained for questioning.
detect
To discover or notice something, especially something that is not easy to see, hear, etc.
Example
The tests are designed to detect the disease early.
deter
To discourage someone from doing something through doubt or fear.
Example
Harsher sentencing alone is unlikely to deter organised criminal activity.
determine
To discover the facts about something; to calculate something exactly.
Example
An inquiry was set up to determine the cause of the accident.
devastate
To completely destroy a place or an area.
Example
The bomb devastated much of the old part of the city.
develop
To gradually grow or become bigger, more advanced, stronger, etc.; to make something do this.
Example
From birth to age 5, a child's brain develops rapidly.
devise
To invent something new or a new way of doing something.
Example
A new system has been devised to control traffic in the city.
diagnose
To say exactly what an illness or the cause of a problem is.
Example
The test is used to diagnose a variety of diseases.
dictate
To tell somebody what to do, especially in an annoying way.
Example
They are in no position to dictate terms (= tell other people what to do).
die
To stop living.
Example
My father died suddenly at the age of 48.
differ
To be different from somebody/something.
Example
They hold differing views.
differentiate
To recognize or show that two things are not the same.
Example
differentiate (between) A and B, It's difficult to differentiate between the two varieties.
dig
To make a hole in the ground or to move soil from one place to another using your hands, a tool or a machine.
Example
I think I'll do some digging in the garden.
diminish
To become smaller, weaker, etc.; to make something become smaller, weaker, etc.
Example
The world's resources are rapidly diminishing.
dip
To put something quickly into a liquid and take it out again.
Example
He dipped the brush into the paint.
disagree
If two people disagree or one person disagrees with another about something, they have a different opinion about it.
Example
Even friends disagree sometimes.
disappear
To become impossible to see.
Example
With that, Matt promptly disappeared.
disappoint
To make somebody feel sad because something that they hope for or expect to happen does not happen or is not as good as they hoped.
Example
Her decision to cancel the concert is bound to disappoint her fans.
discard
To get rid of something that you no longer want or need.
Example
The room was littered with discarded newspapers.
discern
To recognise or find out something with some difficulty; to perceive clearly.
Example
It was difficult to discern any coherent strategy behind the administration's foreign policy.
discharge
To give somebody official permission to leave the police or the armed forces; to make somebody leave the police or the armed forces.
Example
He was discharged from the army following his injury.
discipline
To train someone to behave in a controlled way, or to punish someone for breaking a rule.
Example
The teacher disciplined the students who arrived late.
disclose
To give somebody information about something, especially something that was previously secret.
Example
The spokesman refused to disclose details of the takeover to the press.
discover
To be the first person to become aware that a particular place or thing exists.
Example
Cook is credited with discovering Hawaii.
discuss
To talk about something with somebody, especially in order to decide something.
Example
Have you discussed the problem with anyone?
dislike
To not like somebody/something.
Example
Why do you dislike him so much?
dismiss
To decide that somebody/something is not important and not worth thinking or talking about.
Example
The manager dismissed the complaint as unimportant.
disparage
To regard or represent as being of little worth; to belittle.
Example
He disparaged his competitors' work in a manner that many considered unprofessional.
dispel
To make a doubt, feeling, or belief disappear.
Example
The official report was intended to dispel rumours of an impending financial collapse.
dispense
To distribute or provide a service or information; or to manage without.
Example
The charity dispensed food and medical supplies to thousands of displaced families.
displace
To take the place of somebody/something.
Example
Gradually factory workers have been displaced by machines.
display
To put something in a place where people can see it easily; to show something to people.
Example
The exhibition gives local artists an opportunity to display their work.
dispose
To arrange things or people in a particular way or position.
Example
The visitors disposed themselves in a circle round the statue.
disrupt
To make it difficult for something to continue in the normal way.
Example
Demonstrators succeeded in disrupting the meeting.
disseminate
To spread information, knowledge, or ideas widely.
Example
Social media platforms have the capacity to disseminate misinformation at unprecedented speed.
dissipate
To scatter or cause to disappear; to squander resources or energy.
Example
The morning fog dissipated as the sun rose higher above the valley.
dissolve
To mix with a liquid and become part of it.
Example
Salt dissolves in water.
distinguish
To recognize the difference between two people or things.
Example
distinguish between A and B, At what age are children able to distinguish between right and wrong?
distort
To change the shape, appearance or sound of something so that it is strange or not clear.
Example
a fairground mirror that distorts your shape
distract
To take somebody’s attention away from what they are trying to do.
Example
You're distracting me from my work.
distribute
To give things to a large number of people; to share something between a number of people.
Example
The leaflets have been widely distributed.
disturb
To interrupt somebody when they are trying to work, sleep, etc.
Example
I'm sorry to disturb you, but can I talk to you for a moment?
dive
To jump into water with your head and arms going in first.
Example
We dived into the river to cool off.
divert
To make somebody/something change direction.
Example
be diverted, The course of the stream has now been diverted.
divulge
To make known private or secret information.
Example
The journalist refused to divulge her sources even under considerable legal pressure.
do
Used to refer to actions that you do not mention by name or do not know about.
Example
What are you doing this evening?
dominate
To control or have a lot of influence over somebody/something, especially in an unpleasant way.
Example
She always says a lot in meetings, but she doesn't dominate.
donate
To give money, food, clothes, etc. to somebody/something, especially a charity.
Example
He donated thousands of pounds to charity.
doubt
To feel uncertain about something; to feel that something is not true, will probably not happen, etc.
Example
There seems no reason to doubt her story.
download
To get data from another computer, usually using the internet.
Example
You can download the app for free from the website.
draft
To write the first rough version of something such as a letter, speech, book or law.
Example
I'll draft a letter for you.
drag
To pull somebody/something along with effort and difficulty.
Example
The sack is too heavy to lift—you’ll have to drag it.
drain
To make something empty or dry by removing the liquid from it; to become empty or dry in this way.
Example
Drain and rinse the pasta.
draw
To make pictures, or a picture of something, with a pencil, pen or chalk (but not paint).
Example
You draw beautifully.
dress
To put clothes on yourself/somebody.
Example
I dressed quickly.
drift
To move along smoothly and slowly in water or air.
Example
Clouds drifted across the sky.
drink
To take liquid into your mouth and then down your throat into your stomach.
Example
I don't drink coffee.
drive
To operate a vehicle so that it goes in a particular direction.
Example
Can you drive?
drop
To allow something to fall by accident; to fall by accident.
Example
Be careful not to drop that plate.
drown
To die because you have been underwater too long and you cannot breathe; to kill somebody by holding them underwater.
Example
Two children drowned after falling into the river.
dub
To give somebody/something a particular name, often in a humorous or critical way.
Example
The media dubbed anorexia ‘the slimming disease’.
dump
To get rid of something you do not want, especially in a place that is not suitable.
Example
Too much toxic waste is being dumped at sea.
dwindle
To diminish gradually in size, amount, or strength.
Example
Attendance at the lectures dwindled as the semester wore on.
earn
To get money for work that you do.
Example
He earns about $40 000 a year.
ease
To become less unpleasant, painful or severe; to make something less unpleasant, etc.
Example
The pain immediately eased.
eat
To put food in your mouth, bite it and swallow it.
Example
I was too nervous to eat.
edit
To prepare a piece of writing, a book, etc. to be published by correcting the mistakes, making improvements to it, etc.
Example
This draft text will need to be edited.
elaborate
Very complicated and detailed; carefully prepared and organized.
Example
elaborate designs
elect
To choose somebody to do a particular job by voting for them.
Example
Voters will elect a new president on 30 March next year.
elevate
To give somebody/something a higher position or rank, often more important than they deserve.
Example
He elevated many of his friends to powerful positions within the government.
elicit
To draw out a response, answer, or reaction from someone.
Example
The provocative question elicited a surprisingly candid response from the minister.
eliminate
To remove or get rid of something.
Example
Credit cards eliminate the need to carry a lot of cash.
elucidate
To make something clear; to explain or clarify.
Example
Could you elucidate the mechanism by which the compound inhibits cellular growth?
To send a message to somebody by email.
Example
Patrick emailed me yesterday.
emanate
To originate from or be produced by a source.
Example
A sense of calm emanated from her presence, steadying those around her.
emancipate
To free from legal, social, or political restrictions.
Example
The legislation emancipated enslaved people across the entire territory.
embark
To get onto a ship or plane; to put somebody/something onto a ship or plane.
Example
We stood on the pier and watched as they embarked.
embed
To fix something in a substance or solid object.
Example
an operation to remove glass that was embedded in his leg
embellish
To make more attractive by adding ornamental details; to exaggerate a story.
Example
He had a tendency to embellish anecdotes to make them more entertaining.
embezzle
To steal or misappropriate money placed in one's trust.
Example
The accountant had embezzled over two million pounds from the charity over seven years.
embody
To express or represent an idea or a quality.
Example
a politician who embodied the hopes of black youth
embroil
To involve someone deeply in an argument, conflict, or difficult situation.
Example
The company became embroiled in a lengthy legal dispute over intellectual property rights.
emerge
To move out of or away from something and become possible to see.
Example
The crabs emerge at low tide to look for food.
emphasize
To give special importance to something.
Example
His speech emphasized the importance of attracting industry to the town.
employ
To give somebody a job to do for payment.
Example
How many people does the company employ?
empower
To give somebody the power or authority to do something.
Example
The courts were empowered to impose the death sentence for certain crimes.
emulate
To match or surpass another by imitation; to model oneself on.
Example
Young scientists are encouraged to emulate the rigorous methods of their predecessors.
enable
To make it possible for somebody/something to do something.
Example
This new programme will enable older people to study at college.
enact
To pass a law.
Example
(be) enacted (by somebody/something), legislation enacted by parliament
encompass
To include a large number or range of things.
Example
The job encompasses a wide range of responsibilities.
encounter
To experience something, especially something unpleasant or difficult, while you are trying to do something else.
Example
We encountered a number of difficulties in the first week.
encourage
To give somebody support, courage or hope.
Example
We were greatly encouraged by the positive response of the public.
encroach
To gradually intrude on the rights, territory, or domain of another.
Example
Urban development continued to encroach upon the protected wetlands in the region.
end
To finish; to reach a point and go no further; to make something finish.
Example
At last the war ended.
endeavor
Try hard to do or achieve something.
Example
We endeavor to provide the best possible service.
endow
To provide with a quality, ability, or asset; or to fund an institution.
Example
She was endowed with an extraordinary capacity for analytical reasoning.
endure
To experience and deal with something that is painful or unpleasant without giving up.
Example
They had to endure a long wait before the case came to trial.
enervate
To weaken or drain of energy or vitality.
Example
The oppressive heat enervated the expedition team within the first few hours.
enforce
To make sure that people obey a particular law or rule.
Example
It's the job of the police to enforce the law.
engender
To cause or give rise to a feeling, situation, or condition.
Example
The reforms were designed to engender greater public trust in the judiciary.
enhance
To increase or further improve the good quality, value or status of somebody/something.
Example
This is an opportunity to enhance the reputation of the company.
enjoy
To get pleasure from something.
Example
We thoroughly enjoyed our time in New York.
enrich
To improve the quality of something, often by adding something to it.
Example
The study of science has enriched all our lives.
enroll
Officially register as a participant or member.
Example
I decided to enroll in a language course.
ensue
To happen after or as a result of another event.
Example
An argument ensued.
ensure
To make sure that something happens or is definite.
Example
We are working to ensure the safety of people in the city.
entail
To involve or make something necessary as a consequence.
Example
Any meaningful response to climate change will entail significant economic sacrifice.
enter
To come or go into something.
Example
Knock before you enter.
entertain
To interest somebody or make somebody laugh in order to please them.
Example
The aim of the series is both to entertain and inform.
enthrall
To captivate and hold the complete attention of.
Example
The storyteller enthralled her audience with vivid accounts of her travels.
entitle
To give somebody the right to have or to do something.
Example
You will be entitled to your pension when you reach 65.
entreat
To ask someone earnestly or anxiously to do something.
Example
He entreated the council to reconsider its decision to close the community centre.
enumerate
To mention a number of things one by one; to list.
Example
The report enumerates seventeen distinct failings in the regulatory oversight process.
epitomise
To be a perfect or typical example of something.
Example
Her career epitomises the challenges faced by women in senior academic positions.
equal
To be the same in size, quantity, value, etc. as something else.
Example
2x plus y equals 7 (= 2x+y=7)
equip
To provide yourself/somebody/something with the things that are needed for a particular purpose or activity.
Example
to be fully/poorly equipped
eradicate
To completely destroy or eliminate something.
Example
The global vaccination campaign succeeded in eradicating smallpox by the late twentieth century.
erect
To build something.
Example
The church was erected in 1582.
err
To be mistaken or incorrect; to make an error.
Example
When uncertain, it is prudent to err on the side of caution.
erupt
When a volcano erupts or burning rocks, smoke, etc. erupt or are erupted, the burning rocks, etc. are thrown out from the volcano.
Example
The volcano could erupt at any time.
escalate
To become greater, worse, more serious, etc.; to make something greater, worse, more serious, etc.
Example
the escalating costs of healthcare
escape
To get away from a place where you have been kept as a prisoner or not allowed to leave.
Example
Two prisoners have escaped.
eschew
To deliberately avoid using, engaging in, or dealing with something.
Example
The philosopher eschewed dogma in favour of evidence-based inquiry.
espouse
To adopt or support a cause, belief, or way of life.
Example
He espoused a form of libertarianism that prioritised individual freedom above collective welfare.
establish
To start or create an organization, a system, etc. that is meant to last for a long time.
Example
The committee was established in 1912.
estimate
To form an idea of the cost, size, value etc. of something, but without calculating it exactly.
Example
We estimate that the work will take about two weeks.
evacuate
To move people from a place of danger to a safer place.
Example
Police evacuated nearby buildings.
evoke
To bring a feeling, a memory or an image into your mind.
Example
The music evoked memories of her youth.
evolve
To develop gradually, especially from a simple to a more complicated form; to develop something in this way.
Example
The idea evolved from a drawing I discovered in the attic.
exacerbate
To make a problem, bad situation, or negative feeling worse.
Example
The austerity measures exacerbated existing social inequalities across the country.
exaggerate
To make something seem larger, better, worse or more important than it really is.
Example
The hotel was really filthy and I'm not exaggerating.
exalt
To hold in very high regard; to praise enthusiastically.
Example
The poet was exalted by his contemporaries as the voice of a generation.
examine
To consider or study an idea, a subject, etc. very carefully.
Example
This study sets out to examine in detail the possible effects of climate change.
exceed
To be greater than a particular number or amount.
Example
The price will not exceed £100.
exchange
To give something to somebody and at the same time receive the same type of thing from them.
Example
We exchanged phone numbers at the meeting.
exclude
To deliberately not include something in what you are doing or considering.
Example
The cost of borrowing has been excluded from the inflation figures.
excoriate
To criticise someone or something very harshly.
Example
The review excoriated the board of directors for their catastrophic mismanagement.
execute
To kill somebody, especially as a legal punishment.
Example
He was executed for treason.
exemplify
To be a typical example of something; to illustrate by example.
Example
This case exemplifies the systemic failures that plague the entire procurement process.
exercise
To do sports or other physical activities in order to stay healthy or become stronger; to make an animal do this.
Example
an hour’s class of exercising to music
exert
To use power or influence to affect somebody/something.
Example
He exerted all his authority to make them accept the plan.
exhibit
To show something in a public place for people to enjoy or to give them information.
Example
They will be exhibiting their new designs at the trade fairs.
exhort
To strongly encourage or urge someone to do something.
Example
The general exhorted his troops to maintain discipline in the face of adversity.
exist
To be real; to be present in a place or situation.
Example
Does life exist on other planets?
exit
To go out; to leave a building, stage, vehicle, etc.
Example
The bullet entered her back and exited through her chest.
exonerate
To officially absolve someone from blame or a criminal charge.
Example
New DNA evidence exonerated the man who had spent fifteen years wrongfully imprisoned.
expand
To become greater in size, number or importance; to make something greater in size, number or importance.
Example
Metals expand when they are heated.
expect
To think or believe that something will happen or that somebody will do something.
Example
The company is expecting record sales this year.
expedite
To make an action or process happen sooner or more quickly.
Example
The minister promised to expedite the processing of humanitarian visa applications.
expire
To be no longer legally acceptable because the period of time for which it could be used has ended.
Example
When does your driving licence expire?
explain
To tell somebody about something in a way that makes it easy to understand.
Example
He was trying to explain the difference between hip hop and rap.
explode
To burst (= break apart) or make something burst loudly and violently, causing damage.
Example
A second bomb exploded in a crowded market.
exploit
To treat a person or situation as an opportunity to gain an advantage for yourself.
Example
He exploited his father's name to get himself a job.
export
To sell and send goods to another country.
Example
The islands export sugar and fruit.
expose
To show something that is usually hidden.
Example
He smiled suddenly, exposing a set of amazingly white teeth.
expound
To present and explain a theory or idea in detail.
Example
The professor expounded her theory of cognitive development at the international conference.
expunge
To erase or remove completely; to obliterate.
Example
He petitioned the court to expunge the conviction from his criminal record.
extend
To make something longer or larger.
Example
to extend a fence/road/house
extol
To praise someone or something enthusiastically.
Example
The chairman extolled the virtues of the merger in his address to shareholders.
extract
To remove or obtain a substance from something, for example by using an industrial or a chemical process.
Example
a machine that extracts excess moisture from the air
extricate
To free someone or something from a constraint or difficult situation.
Example
Diplomats worked tirelessly to extricate the hostages from the conflict zone.
exude
To display a quality or feeling strongly and openly; or to ooze a substance.
Example
The experienced negotiator exuded confidence throughout the tense deliberations.
fabricate
To invent or make up something, especially with the intent to deceive.
Example
It later emerged that the key witness had fabricated much of her testimony.
facilitate
To make an action or a process possible or easier.
Example
The new trade agreement should facilitate more rapid economic growth.
fade
To become or to make something become paler or less bright.
Example
The curtains had faded in the sun.
fake
Not what somebody claims it is; appearing to be something it is not.
Example
There were a few stalls selling fake designer clothing.
fall
To drop down from a higher level to a lower level.
Example
The rain was falling steadily.
fancy
To want something or want to do something.
Example
Fancy a drink?
fare
To progress, succeed, or be in a particular condition during an event or process.
Example
How did you fare in the exam?
fasten
To close or join together the two parts of something; to become closed or joined together.
Example
Fasten your seat belts, please.
fathom
To understand a difficult problem or situation after much thought.
Example
She could not fathom why the committee had rejected such a well-evidenced proposal.
fault
To find a mistake or weakness in someone or something.
Example
I couldn't fault her performance — it was nearly perfect.
favor
Feel or show approval or preference for.
Example
Could you do me a favor?
feel
To experience a particular feeling or emotion.
Example
The bus ride made me feel sick.
feign
To pretend to feel or be affected by something.
Example
He feigned indifference to the criticism, though it clearly stung him deeply.
fight
To take part in a war or battle against an enemy.
Example
soldiers trained to fight
file
To put and keep paper documents in a particular place and in a particular order so that you can find them easily; to put a paper document in a box, file, etc.
Example
The forms should be filed alphabetically.
fill
To make something full of something; to become full of something.
Example
Please fill this glass for me.
filter
To pass liquid, light, etc. through a special device, especially to remove something that is not wanted.
Example
All drinking water must be filtered.
finance
To provide money for a project.
Example
He took a job to finance his stay in Germany.
find
To discover somebody/something unexpectedly or by chance.
Example
Look what I've found!
finish
To stop doing something or making something because it is complete.
Example
Haven't you finished your homework yet?
fish
To try to catch fish with nets, a fishing line, etc.
Example
The trawler was fishing off the coast of Iceland.
fix
To repair or correct something.
Example
The car won't start—can you fix it?
flame
To burn with flames, or for a face or sky to turn red because of strong feeling or sunset.
Example
Her cheeks flamed with embarrassment.
flash
To shine very brightly for a short time; to make something shine in this way.
Example
Lightning flashed in the distance.
flaunt
To display something ostentatiously in order to provoke envy or admiration.
Example
Flaunting one's wealth in such circumstances was regarded as deeply inappropriate.
flavor
Give flavor to (food or drink) by adding herbs, spices, or other ingredients.
Example
The article captured the flavor of the city.
flee
To leave a person or place very quickly, especially because you are afraid of possible danger.
Example
She burst into tears and fled.
float
To move slowly on water or in the air.
Example
A group of swans floated by.
flood
If a place floods or something floods it, it becomes filled or covered with water.
Example
The cellar floods whenever it rains heavily.
flourish
To develop quickly and become successful or common.
Example
Few businesses are flourishing in the present economic climate.
flout
To openly disregard a rule, law, or convention.
Example
Several large corporations were found to have flouted environmental regulations with impunity.
flow
To move steadily and continuously in one direction.
Example
She lost control and the tears began to flow.
fly
To move through the air, using wings.
Example
Penguins can't fly.
follow
To come or go after or behind somebody/something.
Example
Follow me please.
foment
To instigate or stir up trouble, civil disorder, or discontent.
Example
The propaganda was deliberately designed to foment ethnic tensions.
forbid
To order somebody not to do something; to order that something must not be done.
Example
He forbade them from mentioning the subject again.
force
To make somebody do something that they do not want to do.
Example
The President was forced into resigning.
forecast
To say what you think will happen in the future based on information that you have now.
Example
Experts are forecasting a recovery in the economy.
forestall
To prevent or obstruct something by taking advance action.
Example
The early ceasefire was intended to forestall a full-scale humanitarian crisis.
forge
To put a lot of effort into making something successful or strong so that it will last.
Example
a move to forge new links between management and workers
forget
To not remember to do something that you ought to do, or to bring or buy something that you ought to bring or buy.
Example
‘Why weren't you at the meeting?’ ‘Sorry—I forgot.’
forgo
To go without or refrain from something.
Example
She chose to forgo the prestigious appointment in order to care for her family.
form
To produce something in a particular way or make it have a particular shape.
Example
Bend the wire so that it forms a ‘V’.
format
To organize the design or layout of a document, or to prepare a digital storage device for use.
Example
She formatted the report so the headings stood out clearly.
formulate
To create or prepare something carefully, giving particular attention to the details.
Example
The team worked hard to formulate a new marketing plan.
forsake
To abandon or renounce a person, belief, or principle.
Example
He was accused of forsaking his principles in exchange for political advancement.
foster
To encourage something to develop.
Example
The club's aim is to foster better relations within the community.
founder
To fail because of a problem or difficulty; (of a ship) to fill with water and sink.
Example
The peace talks foundered over disagreements about borders.
fragment
To break into small pieces, or to cause something to break into small pieces.
Example
The plate fragmented when it hit the tiled floor.
frame
To put or make a frame or border around something.
Example
be framed, The photograph had been framed.
frequent
Happening or doing something often.
Example
He is a frequent visitor to this country.
frighten
To make somebody suddenly feel afraid.
Example
Sorry, I didn't mean to frighten you.
fuel
To supply something with material that can be burnt to produce heat or power.
Example
Uranium is used to fuel nuclear plants.
fulfill
Achieve or realize (something desired, promised, or predicted). Satisfy (a condition) or meet (a requirement).
Example
He finally fulfilled his dream of traveling the world.
function
To work in the correct way.
Example
We now have a functioning shower.
fund
To provide money for something, usually something official.
Example
Who is funding this research?
gain
To obtain or win something, especially something that you need or want.
Example
They managed to gain access to secret files.
galvanise
To shock or excite someone into taking action.
Example
The tragedy galvanised public opinion in favour of stronger gun control legislation.
garner
To gather or collect something, especially information or approval.
Example
The documentary garnered widespread critical acclaim at international film festivals.
gather
To come together, or bring people together, in one place to form a group.
Example
A crowd soon gathered.
gaze
To look steadily at somebody/something for a long time, either because you are very interested or surprised, or because you are thinking of something else.
Example
She gazed at him in amazement.
generate
To produce energy, especially electricity.
Example
The wind turbines are used to generate electricity.
genuflect
To lower one's body briefly as an act of reverence; to show excessive deference.
Example
He genuflected before the altar before taking his place in the pew.
gesture
To make a movement with your hand, head, or body to communicate a meaning.
Example
He gestured towards the door, asking us to leave.
get
To receive something.
Example
I got a call from Dave this morning.
give
To hand something to somebody so that they can look at it, use it or keep it for a time.
Example
Give the letter to your mother when you've read it.
glance
To look quickly at something/somebody.
Example
She glanced at her watch.
glean
To obtain information or understanding from various sources, often with difficulty.
Example
From the fragmented records, historians have gleaned a partial picture of daily life.
go
To move or travel from one place to another.
Example
She went into her room and shut the door behind her.
govern
To legally control a country or its people and be responsible for introducing new laws, organizing public services, etc.
Example
The country is governed by elected representatives of the people.
grab
To take or hold somebody/something with your hand suddenly or roughly.
Example
She grabbed his arm as he got up to leave.
grade
To give a grade to a student or to a piece of their written work.
Example
I spent all weekend grading papers.
graduate
To get a degree, especially your first degree, from a university or college.
Example
She taught in France after she graduated.
grant
To agree to give somebody what they ask for, especially formal or legal permission to do something.
Example
My request was granted.
grasp
To take a strong hold of somebody/something.
Example
He grasped my hand and shook it warmly.
greet
To say hello to somebody or to welcome them.
Example
He greeted all the guests warmly as they arrived.
grin
To smile widely.
Example
They grinned with delight when they heard our news.
grind
To break or press something into very small pieces between two hard surfaces or using a special machine.
Example
to grind coffee/corn
grip
To hold something tightly.
Example
‘Please don't go,’ he said, gripping her arm.
grovel
To act obsequiously in order to obtain forgiveness or favour.
Example
She refused to grovel to the board despite their considerable institutional power.
grow
To increase in size, number, strength or quality.
Example
The sector is growing at a phenomenal rate.
guarantee
To promise to do something; to promise something will happen.
Example
Basic human rights, including freedom of speech, are now guaranteed.
guard
To protect property, places or people from attack or danger.
Example
Armed officers guarded the entrance.
guess
To try and give an answer or make a judgement about something without being sure of all the facts.
Example
I don't really know. I'm just guessing.
hail
To describe somebody/something as being very good or special, especially in newspapers, etc.
Example
The conference was hailed as a great success.
halt
To stop; to make somebody/something stop.
Example
She walked towards him and then halted.
hamper
To hinder or impede the movement or progress of.
Example
The relief operation was hampered by the near-total destruction of local infrastructure.
handle
To deal with a situation, a person, an area of work or a strong emotion.
Example
A new man was appointed to handle the crisis.
hang
To attach something, or to be attached, at the top so that the lower part is free or loose.
Example
Hang your coat on the hook.
happen
To take place, especially without being planned.
Example
You'll never guess what's happened!
harm
To hurt or injure somebody or to damage something.
Example
He would never harm anyone.
harness
To control and make use of natural resources or abilities.
Example
The project aims to harness tidal energy to power remote coastal communities.
harvest
To cut and gather a crop; to catch a number of animals or fish to eat.
Example
The nuts are ready to harvest in September.
hasten
To be quick to do something; to cause something to happen sooner.
Example
The revelation of the documents may hasten the collapse of the coalition government.
hate
To dislike somebody/something very much.
Example
The two boys hated each other.
haunt
If the ghost of a dead person haunts a place, people say that they have seen it there.
Example
A headless rider haunts the country lanes.
have
To own, hold or possess something.
Example
He had a new car and a boat.
hear
To be aware of sounds with your ears.
Example
I can't hear very well.
heed
To pay attention to and take notice of a warning or advice.
Example
Had the warnings been heeded earlier, the disaster might have been averted.
heighten
If a feeling or an effect heightens, or something heightens it, it becomes stronger or increases.
Example
Tension has heightened after the recent bomb attack.
help
To make it easier or possible for somebody to do something by doing something for them or by giving them something that they need.
Example
What can I do to help?
herald
To be a sign that something is about to happen; to announce or proclaim.
Example
The new discovery was heralded as a turning point in the treatment of the disease.
hesitate
To be slow to speak or act because you feel uncertain or nervous.
Example
She hesitated before replying.
highlight
To emphasize something, especially so that people give it more attention.
Example
The report highlighted the importance of exercise to maintain a healthy body.
hire
To give somebody a job.
Example
She was hired three years ago.
hoard
To accumulate a large stock of goods or money and keep it secret.
Example
Consumers began hoarding essential supplies in anticipation of the supply chain disruption.
hollow
Having a hole or empty space inside.
Example
a hollow ball/centre/tube/tree
hone
To refine or perfect a skill or quality over time.
Example
She spent a decade honing her expertise in international arbitration law.
honor
Regard with great respect. Fulfill (an obligation) or keep (an agreement).
Example
He acted out of a sense of honor.
hook
To fasten or hang something on something else using a hook; to be fastened or hanging in this way.
Example
We hooked the trailer to the back of the car.
hope
To want something to happen and think that it is possible.
Example
All we can do now is wait and hope.
host
To organize an event to which others are invited and make all the arrangements for them.
Example
to host an event/a conference/a meeting
hunt
To go after wild animals in order to catch or kill them for food, sport or to make money.
Example
Lions sometimes hunt alone.
hurt
To cause physical pain to somebody/yourself; to injure somebody/yourself.
Example
He hurt his back playing squash.
identify
To recognize somebody/something and be able to say who or what they are.
Example
She was able to identify her attacker.
ignore
To pay no attention to something.
Example
He ignored all the ‘No Smoking’ signs and lit up a cigarette.
illustrate
To use pictures, photographs, diagrams, etc. in a book, etc.
Example
She illustrated her own books.
imagine
To form a picture in your mind of what something might be like.
Example
The house was just as she had imagined it.
imbue
To inspire or permeate with a quality or feeling.
Example
His prose is imbued with a profound sense of loss and longing.
impact
To have an effect on somebody/something.
Example
Her father's death impacted greatly on her childhood years.
impair
To weaken or damage the function, quality, or strength of something.
Example
Prolonged exposure to loud noise can permanently impair hearing.
impede
To delay or prevent someone or something by obstructing them.
Example
Bureaucratic inefficiency continues to impede the delivery of essential public services.
imperil
To put at risk; to endanger.
Example
The decision to cut the safety budget imperilled the lives of hundreds of workers.
implement
To make something that has been officially decided start to happen or be used.
Example
to implement changes/decisions/policies/reforms
imply
To suggest that something is true or that you feel or think something, without saying so directly.
Example
Are you implying (that) I am wrong?
import
To bring a product, a service, an idea, etc. into one country from another.
Example
The country has to import most of its raw materials.
impose
To introduce a new law, rule, tax, etc.; to order that a rule, punishment, etc. be used.
Example
The UN Security Council imposed sanctions in 1992.
imprison
To put somebody in a prison or another place from which they cannot escape.
Example
They were imprisoned for possession of drugs.
improve
To become better than before; to make something/somebody better than before.
Example
Overall the situation has improved dramatically.
impugn
To dispute the truth, validity, or integrity of something or someone.
Example
Defence counsel sought to impugn the credibility of the prosecution's key witness.
inaugurate
To formally begin or introduce something; to admit someone to office formally.
Example
The president was inaugurated in a ceremony attended by dignitaries from fifty nations.
incarcerate
Imprison or confine.
Example
They were incarcerated for violating the law.
incense
To make someone extremely angry.
Example
The cavalier dismissal of their concerns incensed the community representatives.
inch
To move very slowly and carefully in a particular direction.
Example
The car inched forward through the heavy traffic.
incite
To encourage or stir up violent or unlawful behaviour.
Example
He was charged with using his platform to incite racial hatred.
include
If one thing includes another, it has the second thing as one of its parts.
Example
The tour included a visit to the Science Museum.
incorporate
To include something so that it forms a part of something.
Example
The new car design incorporates all the latest safety features.
increase
To become greater in amount, number, value, etc.; to make something greater in amount, number, value, etc.
Example
Costs have increased significantly.
indemnify
To compensate for harm or loss; to secure against future legal liability.
Example
The contract stipulated that the client would indemnify the firm against any third-party claims.
index
To make a list of the items in a book or document so that information can be found quickly.
Example
The librarian indexed the new collection.
indicate
To show that something is true or exists.
Example
Initial tests indicate the presence of oxygen.
induce
To persuade or influence somebody to do something.
Example
Nothing would induce me to take the job.
indulge
To allow yourself to have or do something that you like, especially something that is considered bad for you.
Example
They went into town to indulge in some serious shopping.
infect
To make a disease or an illness spread to a person, an animal or a plant.
Example
It is not possible to infect another person through kissing.
infer
To reach an opinion or decide that something is true on the basis of information that is available.
Example
Much of the meaning must be inferred from the context.
inflict
To make somebody/something suffer something unpleasant.
Example
They inflicted a humiliating defeat on the home team.
influence
To have an effect on the way that somebody behaves or thinks, especially by giving them an example to follow.
Example
His writings have influenced the lives of millions.
inform
To tell somebody about something, especially in an official way.
Example
The government took this decision without consulting Parliament or informing the public.
inhibit
To prevent something from happening or make it happen more slowly or less frequently than normal.
Example
A lack of oxygen may inhibit brain development in the unborn child.
initiate
To make something begin.
Example
to initiate legal proceedings against somebody
inject
To put a drug or other substance into a person’s or an animal’s body using a syringe.
Example
Adrenaline was injected into the muscle.
input
Time, knowledge, ideas, etc. that you put into work, a project, etc. in order to make it succeed; the act of putting something in.
Example
I'd appreciate your input on this.
insert
To put something into something else or between two things.
Example
Insert coins into the slot and press for a ticket.
insist
To demand that something happen or that somebody agree to do something.
Example
I didn't really want to go but he insisted.
inspect
To look closely at something/somebody, especially to check that everything is as it should be.
Example
The teacher walked around inspecting their work.
inspire
To give somebody the desire, confidence or enthusiasm to do something well.
Example
The actors' enthusiasm inspired the kids.
install
To fix equipment or furniture into position so that it can be used.
Example
They're planning to install a new drainage system.
instigate
To bring about or initiate an action or event, often a negative one.
Example
The investigation was instigated following anonymous complaints from within the organisation.
institute
To start or introduce a system, rule, inquiry, or set of legal proceedings.
Example
The school instituted a new attendance policy this year.
instruct
To tell somebody to do something, especially in a formal or official way.
Example
The letter instructed him to report to headquarters immediately.
insult
To say or do something that offends somebody.
Example
I have never been so insulted in my life!
integrate
To combine two or more things so that they work together; to combine with something else in this way.
Example
These programs will integrate with your existing software.
intensify
To increase in degree or strength; to make something increase in degree or strength.
Example
Violence intensified during the night.
interact
To communicate with somebody, especially while you work, play or spend time with them.
Example
Teachers have a limited amount of time to interact with each child.
intervene
To become involved in a situation in order to improve or help it.
Example
She might have been killed if the neighbours hadn't intervened.
interview
To talk to somebody and ask them questions at a formal meeting to find out if they are suitable for a job, course of study, etc.
Example
The university interviews all potential candidates.
inundate
To overwhelm with things to be dealt with; or to flood with water.
Example
The helpline was inundated with calls in the hours following the broadcast.
invade
To enter a country, town, etc. using military force in order to take control of it.
Example
Troops invaded on August 9th that year.
invent
To produce or design something that has not existed before.
Example
Who invented the steam engine?
invest
To buy property, shares in a company, etc. in the hope of making a profit.
Example
Now is a good time to invest.
investigate
To carefully examine the facts of a situation, an event, a crime, etc. to find out the truth about it or how it happened.
Example
The FBI has been called in to investigate.
invite
To ask somebody to come to a social event.
Example
Have you been invited to their party?
invoke
To mention or use a law, rule, etc. as a reason for doing something.
Example
It is unlikely that libel laws will be invoked.
involve
If a situation, an event or an activity involves something, that thing is an important or necessary part or result of it.
Example
Any investment involves an element of risk.
irk
To irritate or annoy someone.
Example
What irked him most was the committee's refusal to acknowledge the evidence.
isolate
To separate somebody/something physically or socially from other people or things.
Example
Patients with the disease should be isolated.
issue
To make something known formally.
Example
They issued a joint statement denying the charges.
jeopardise
To put something at risk of being harmed, lost, or destroyed.
Example
Any further delay could jeopardise the entire peace process.
jet
To travel somewhere by jet aircraft, often quickly or for a short visit.
Example
The CEO jets between London and New York every week.
join
To fix or connect two or more things together.
Example
Join one section of pipe to the next.
joint
Involving two or more people together.
Example
a joint account (= a bank account in the name of more than one person, for example shared by a couple)
judge
To form an opinion about somebody/something, based on the information you have.
Example
As far as I can judge, all of them are to blame.
jump
To move quickly off the ground or away from a surface by pushing yourself with your legs and feet.
Example
‘Quick, jump!’ he shouted.
justify
To show that somebody/something is right or reasonable.
Example
How can they justify paying such huge salaries?
juxtapose
To place two things close together for contrasting or comparing effect.
Example
The exhibition juxtaposes ancient artefacts with contemporary interpretations of the same themes.
keep
To continue to have something and not give it back or throw it away.
Example
He kept all her letters.
kick
To hit somebody/something with your foot.
Example
Stop kicking—it hurts!
kidnap
To take somebody away illegally and keep them as a prisoner, especially in order to get money or something else for returning them.
Example
Two businessmen have been kidnapped by terrorists.
kill
To make somebody/something die.
Example
Cancer kills thousands of people every year.
kindle
To arouse or inspire a feeling or interest; or to light a fire.
Example
Travel to remote regions kindled in her a lifelong passion for anthropology.
kiss
To touch somebody with your lips as a sign of love or sexual desire or when saying hello or goodbye.
Example
They stood in a doorway kissing (= kissing each other).
knock
To hit a door, etc. in order to attract attention.
Example
He knocked three times and waited.
know
To have information in your mind as a result of experience or because you have learned or been told it.
Example
No one knows the answer.
label
To fix a label on something or write information on something.
Example
Make sure that your luggage is clearly labelled.
labor
Work hard; make great effort.
Example
The company negotiated a new contract with labor.
lack
To have none or not enough of something.
Example
to lack confidence/experience/resources/power
lambaste
To criticise someone or something harshly.
Example
The independent report lambasted the agency for its systemic failures in child protection.
lament
To express grief, regret, or sorrow about something.
Example
Educators lament the decline in critical thinking skills among university students.
land
To come down through the air onto the ground or another surface.
Example
The plane landed safely.
landscape
Everything you can see when you look across a large area of land, especially in the country.
Example
the woods and fields that are typical features of the English landscape
languish
To lose or lack vitality; to be kept in an unsatisfactory situation.
Example
The bill languished in committee for three years without ever reaching a vote.
last
To continue for a particular period of time.
Example
Each game lasts about an hour.
laud
To praise someone or something highly.
Example
The intervention was lauded by international observers as a model of diplomatic restraint.
laugh
To make the sounds and movements of your face that show you think something is funny or silly.
Example
to laugh out loud
launch
To start an activity, especially an organized one.
Example
The government recently launched a national road safety campaign.
lead
To go with or in front of a person or an animal to show the way or to make them go in the right direction.
Example
If you lead, I'll follow.
leak
To allow liquid or gas to get in or out through a small hole.
Example
a leaking pipe
lean
To bend or move from a straight position to a sloping position.
Example
I leaned back in my chair.
leap
To jump high or a long way.
Example
A dolphin leapt out of the water.
learn
To gain knowledge or skill by studying, from experience, from being taught, etc.
Example
She wants to learn Spanish before her trip to Madrid.
leave
To go away from a person or a place.
Example
Come on, it's time we left (= time for us to leave).
lend
To give something to somebody or allow them to use something that belongs to you, which they have to return to you later.
Example
They will lend equipment free of charge.
let
Used for making suggestions or as a polite way of telling people what you want them to do.
Example
‘Shall we check it again?’ ‘Yes, let's.’
levy
To impose a tax, fee, or fine.
Example
The government levied a windfall tax on energy companies' excess profits.
license
To give somebody official permission to do, own, or use something.
Example
The new drug has not yet been licensed in the US.
lie
To be or put yourself in a flat position so that you are not standing or sitting.
Example
He lay on the sofa and watched television.
lift
To raise somebody/something or be raised to a higher position or level.
Example
I lifted the lid of the box and peered in.
light
To make something start to burn.
Example
She lit a candle.
like
To find somebody/something pleasant, attractive or of a good enough standard; to enjoy something.
Example
She's nice. I like her.
limit
To stop something from increasing beyond a particular amount or level.
Example
measures to limit carbon dioxide emissions
linger
To continue to exist for longer than expected.
Example
The faint smell of her perfume lingered in the room.
liquidate
To close down a company and distribute its assets; or to convert assets into cash.
Example
When the firm was liquidated, creditors recovered only a fraction of what was owed.
list
To write a list of things in a particular order.
Example
We were asked to list our ten favourite songs.
litter
Small pieces of rubbish such as paper, cans and bottles, that people have left lying in a public place.
Example
There will be fines for people who drop litter.
live
To have your home in a particular place.
Example
to live in a house/a flat/an apartment
load
To put a large quantity of things or people onto or into something.
Example
We loaded the car in ten minutes.
loan
Money that an organization such as a bank lends and somebody borrows.
Example
to take out/repay a loan (= to borrow money/pay it back)
loathe
To feel intense dislike or disgust for.
Example
She loathed the dishonesty that permeated the organisation's corporate culture.
lobby
To try to influence a politician or the government and, for example, persuade them to support or oppose a change in the law.
Example
Farmers will lobby Congress for higher subsidies.
locate
To find the exact position of somebody/something.
Example
The mechanic located the fault immediately.
look
To turn your eyes in a particular direction.
Example
Look closely and tell me what you see.
loom
To appear as a large shape that is not clear, especially in a frightening way.
Example
A dark shape loomed up ahead of us.
loose
Not securely fixed where it should be; able to become separated from something.
Example
a loose button/tooth
lose
To be unable to find something/somebody.
Example
I've lost my keys.
love
To have very strong feelings of liking and caring for somebody.
Example
I love you.
lower
To reduce something or to become less in value, quality, etc.
Example
He lowered his voice to a whisper.
maintain
To make something continue at the same level, standard, etc.
Example
to maintain law and order/standards/a balance/control
make
To create or prepare something by combining materials or putting parts together.
Example
She made a beautiful dress for her daughter.
malign
To speak about someone in a spitefully critical manner.
Example
He was unfairly maligned in the press for decisions that were ultimately vindicated.
manage
To control or be in charge of a business, a team, an organization, land, etc.
Example
to manage a business/factory/bank/hotel/soccer team
manipulate
To control or influence somebody/something, often in a dishonest way so that they do not realize it.
Example
She uses her charm to manipulate people.
manufacture
To make goods in large quantities, using machines.
Example
manufactured goods
marry
To become the husband or wife of somebody; to get married to somebody.
Example
She married a German.
master
To learn or understand something completely.
Example
She never completely mastered the art of lip-reading.
mate
To have sex in order to produce young.
Example
Do foxes ever mate with dogs?
maximize
To increase something as much as possible.
Example
to maximize efficiency/fitness/profits
measure
To find the size, quantity, etc. of something in standard units.
Example
a device that measures the level of radiation in the atmosphere
meet
To be in the same place as somebody by chance and talk to them.
Example
Maybe we'll meet again some time.
melt
To become or make something become liquid as a result of heating.
Example
The snow showed no sign of melting.
mention
To write or speak about something/somebody, especially without giving much information.
Example
Sorry, I won't mention it again.
merge
To combine or make two or more things combine to form a single thing.
Example
The banks are set to merge next year.
might
Used when showing that something is or was possible.
Example
He might get there in time, but I can't be sure.
minimize
To reduce something, especially something bad, to the lowest possible level.
Example
Good hygiene helps to minimize the risk of infection.
minister
To attend to the needs of someone, especially by providing care, help, or religious service.
Example
Volunteers ministered to the wounded soldiers.
miss
To be or arrive too late for something.
Example
If I don't leave now I'll miss my plane.
mitigate
To lessen the gravity, seriousness, or painfulness of something.
Example
Early intervention can significantly mitigate the long-term effects of the condition.
mix
If two or more substances or things mix or you mix them, they combine, usually in a way that means they cannot easily be separated.
Example
Oil and water do not mix.
mobilize
To work together in order to achieve a particular aim; to organize a group of people to do this.
Example
The unions mobilized thousands of workers in a protest against the cuts.
modify
To change something slightly, especially in order to make it more suitable for a particular purpose.
Example
Patients are taught how to modify their diet.
mollify
To appease the anger or anxiety of someone.
Example
Management attempted to mollify disgruntled employees with promises of future pay reviews.
monitor
To watch and check something over a period of time in order to see how it develops, so that you can make any necessary changes.
Example
Each student's progress is closely monitored.
mortgage
To use a property as security in order to borrow money from a bank.
Example
They mortgaged their house to start the business.
motion
To direct someone to move in a particular direction using a movement of your hand or head.
Example
The guard motioned us to step back from the gate.
mount
To organize and begin something.
Example
Residents mounted a campaign to fight the plans.
move
To change position or make somebody/something change position in a way that can be seen, heard or felt.
Example
Don't move—stay perfectly still.
muffle
To make a sound quieter or less distinct; to wrap for warmth or to suppress.
Example
The thick stone walls muffled the noise of the street below.
multiply
To add a number to itself a particular number of times.
Example
The children are already learning to multiply and divide.
murder
To kill somebody deliberately and illegally.
Example
He denies murdering his wife's lover.
must
Used to say that something is necessary or very important (sometimes involving a rule or a law).
Example
All visitors must report to reception.
nag
To persistently annoy or find fault with someone; or to cause persistent discomfort.
Example
A nagging sense of doubt prevented her from committing fully to the decision.
nail
To fasten something to a wall, floor or other surface using nails.
Example
He nailed the sign to the door.
name
To give a name to somebody/something.
Example
He was named after his father (= given his father's first name).
need
To require something/somebody because they are essential or very important, not just because you would like to have them.
Example
Do you need any help?
neglect
To fail to take care of somebody/something.
Example
She denies neglecting her baby.
negotiate
To try to reach an agreement by formal discussion.
Example
The government will not negotiate with terrorists.
nerve
Any of the long fibres that carry messages between the brain and parts of the body, enabling you to move, feel pain, etc.
Example
the optic nerve
net
To catch fish or other animals in a net; or to obtain or earn an amount of money as a final figure after deductions.
Example
The company netted a record profit last year.
nominate
To formally suggest that somebody/something should be chosen for an important role, prize, position, etc.
Example
She has been nominated for the presidency.
note
To notice or pay careful attention to something.
Example
Note the fine early Baroque altar inside the chapel.
notify
To formally or officially tell somebody about something.
Example
Competition winners will be notified by post.
obey
To do what you are told or expected to do.
Example
All citizens must obey the law.
obfuscate
To make unclear or difficult to understand; to confuse deliberately.
Example
The report accused the company of deliberately obfuscating its environmental data.
oblige
To force somebody to do something, by law, because it is a duty, etc.
Example
Parents are obliged by law to send their children to school.
obliterate
To destroy utterly; to wipe out completely.
Example
The aerial bombardment obliterated entire neighbourhoods within hours.
observe
To see or notice somebody/something.
Example
Have you observed any changes lately?
obsess
To completely fill your mind so that you cannot think of anything else, in a way that is not reasonable or normal.
Example
He's obsessed by computers.
obtain
To get something, especially by making an effort.
Example
to obtain information/data/results
obviate
To remove a need or difficulty; to prevent from arising.
Example
Automated verification processes can obviate the need for manual data entry.
offend
To make somebody feel upset because of something you say or do that is rude or embarrassing.
Example
They'll be offended if you don't go to their wedding.
offer
To say that you are willing to give something to somebody.
Example
Josie had offered her services as a guide.
open
To move a door, window, lid, etc. into a position that is no longer closed; to get into this position.
Example
Mr Chen opened the car door for his wife.
operate
To work in a particular way.
Example
Most domestic freezers operate at below −18°C.
oppose
To disagree strongly with somebody’s plan, policy, etc. and try to change it or prevent it from succeeding.
Example
This party would bitterly oppose the re-introduction of the death penalty.
opt
To choose to take or not to take a particular course of action.
Example
After graduating she opted for a career in music.
order
To ask for something to eat or drink in a restaurant, bar, etc.
Example
I ordered a coffee and a sandwich.
organize
To make all the arrangements for something to happen or be provided.
Example
He helped to organize various events.
originate
To happen or appear for the first time in a particular place or situation.
Example
The disease is thought to have originated in the tropics.
ostracise
To exclude someone from a society or group.
Example
Those who challenged the official narrative were swiftly ostracised by their peers.
oust
To drive out or expel someone from a position of power.
Example
The prime minister was ousted in a party vote after a series of policy failures.
outfit
To provide someone with the clothes or equipment needed for a particular purpose.
Example
The school outfitted every new student with a uniform and books.
outline
To give a description of the main facts or points involved in something.
Example
He outlined his plan to leave St. Petersburg.
outweigh
To be greater or more significant than something else.
Example
The potential benefits of the treatment outweigh the risks for most patients.
overcome
To succeed in dealing with or controlling a problem that has been preventing you from achieving something.
Example
She overcame injury to win the Olympic gold medal.
overlook
To fail to see or notice something.
Example
He seems to have overlooked one important fact.
oversee
To watch somebody/something and make sure that a job or an activity is done correctly.
Example
United Nations observers oversaw the elections.
overturn
If something overturns, or if somebody overturns it, it turns into a position in which the top of it is where the bottom of it normally is or on its side.
Example
The car skidded and overturned.
overwhelm
To have such a strong emotional effect on somebody that it is difficult for them to resist or know how to react.
Example
She was overwhelmed by feelings of guilt.
owe
To have to pay somebody for something that you have already received or return money that you have borrowed.
Example
She still owes her father £3 000.
own
To have something that belongs to you, especially because you have bought it.
Example
Do you own your house or do you rent it?
pace
To walk up and down in a small area many times, especially because you are feeling nervous or angry.
Example
She paced up and down outside the room.
pacify
To quell the anger or agitation of someone; to bring peace to a region.
Example
Successive administrations failed to pacify the restive border provinces.
package
To put something into a box, bag, etc. to be sold or transported.
Example
packaged food/goods
paint
To cover a surface or object with paint.
Example
Paint the shed with weather-resistant paint.
palliate
To make a disease or its symptoms less severe without curing it; to alleviate.
Example
The medication was intended to palliate discomfort rather than address the underlying cause.
pamper
To indulge someone with every attention and comfort.
Example
She occasionally pampered herself with a weekend retreat at a countryside spa.
parade
To walk or march in public, often as part of a celebration or to show something off.
Example
The winning team paraded through the streets with the trophy.
parallel
Two or more lines that are parallel to each other are the same distance apart at every point.
Example
parallel lines
park
To leave a vehicle that you are driving in a particular place for a period of time.
Example
He parked and went inside.
participate
To take part in or become involved in an activity.
Example
Anyone who wishes to participate is welcome.
pass
To achieve the required standard in an exam, a test, etc.
Example
I'm not really expecting to pass first time.
patch
To repair something by adding a piece of material over a hole or weak area.
Example
He patched the hole in his jeans with a piece of denim.
patrol
To go around an area or a building at regular times to check that it is safe and that there is no trouble.
Example
Troops patrolled the border day and night.
pause
To stop talking or doing something for a short time before continuing.
Example
Anita paused for a moment, then said: ‘All right’.
pay
To give somebody money for work, goods, services, etc.
Example
Who's paying?
peer
To look very carefully at something, especially because it is difficult to see clearly.
Example
She peered at the small print on the back of the bottle.
perceive
To understand or think of somebody/something in a particular way.
Example
This discovery was perceived as a major breakthrough.
perform
To entertain an audience by playing a piece of music, acting in a play, etc.
Example
to perform a song/dance/play
permeate
To spread throughout; to pervade every part of something.
Example
A culture of complacency had permeated the organisation at every level.
permit
To allow somebody to do something or to allow something to happen.
Example
be permitted, Mobile phones are not permitted in the examination room.
perpetuate
To make something, typically an undesirable situation, continue indefinitely.
Example
Such stereotypes only serve to perpetuate harmful misconceptions about the group.
persecute
To subject someone to hostility and ill-treatment, especially for their beliefs.
Example
The regime systematically persecuted religious minorities for decades.
persist
To continue to do something despite difficulties or opposition, in a way that can seem unreasonable.
Example
Why do you persist in blaming yourself for what happened?
persuade
To make somebody do something by giving them good reasons for doing it.
Example
Try to persuade him to come.
peruse
To read something, typically in a thorough or careful way.
Example
She perused the lengthy contract before committing to any of its clauses.
pervade
To spread through and be perceived in every part of something.
Example
An atmosphere of uncertainty pervaded the city in the days before the announcement.
pervert
To alter something from its original meaning or cause to act wrongly.
Example
He was found guilty of attempting to pervert the course of justice.
phase
To introduce or remove something gradually over a period of time.
Example
The new system will be phased in over the next six months.
phone
To make a phone call to somebody.
Example
I was just phoning up for a chat.
pile
To put things one on top of another; to form a pile.
Example
She piled the boxes one on top of the other.
pillage
To rob using violence, especially in wartime; to plunder.
Example
Invading forces pillaged the ancient city, destroying centuries of cultural heritage.
pin
To attach something onto another thing or fasten things together with a pin, etc.
Example
She pinned the badge onto her jacket.
pitch
To throw something with force, or to set something at a particular level, tone, or difficulty.
Example
She pitched the ball straight to the catcher.
placate
To make someone less angry or hostile; to appease.
Example
The token concession did little to placate the protesters outside the parliament.
place
To put something in a particular place, especially when you do it carefully or deliberately.
Example
He placed his hand on her shoulder.
plan
To make detailed arrangements for something you want to do in the future.
Example
We are planning a holiday to Japan next summer.
plant
To put plants, seeds, etc. in the ground to grow.
Example
to plant a tree/seed/crop
play
To do things for pleasure, as children do; to enjoy yourself, rather than work.
Example
You'll have to play inside today.
please
To make somebody happy.
Example
You can't please everybody.
plot
To make a secret plan to harm somebody, especially a government or its leader.
Example
It is claimed he plotted with the country's enemies.
plug
To fill a hole with a substance or piece of material that fits tightly into it.
Example
He plugged the hole in the pipe with an old rag.
plunder
To steal goods from a place, typically using force and in a time of conflict.
Example
Looters plundered warehouses in the aftermath of the catastrophic earthquake.
plunge
To move or make somebody/something move suddenly forwards and/or downwards.
Example
She lost her balance and plunged 100 feet to her death.
point
To stretch out your finger or something held in your hand towards somebody/something in order to show somebody where a person or thing is.
Example
‘What's your name?’ he asked, pointing at the child with his pen.
poison
To harm or kill a person or an animal by giving them poison.
Example
He was believed to poison his enemies.
ponder
To think about something carefully, especially before making a decision.
Example
She pondered the implications of the discovery for several days before speaking.
pontificate
To express one's opinions in a self-important and dogmatic manner.
Example
He was prone to pontificating about economic policy without acknowledging counterevidence.
portend
To be a sign or warning that something significant is likely to happen.
Example
The dark clouds gathering on the horizon seemed to portend a turbulent period ahead.
portion
One part of something larger.
Example
a substantial/significant portion of the population
portray
To show somebody/something in a picture; to describe somebody/something in a piece of writing.
Example
The painting portrays the duke’s third wife.
pose
To create a threat, problem, etc. that has to be dealt with.
Example
to pose a threat/risk/challenge/danger
possess
To have or own something.
Example
He was charged with possessing a shotgun without a licence.
post
To send a letter, etc. to somebody by post.
Example
The cost of posting a letter has gone up again.
postpone
To arrange for an event, etc. to take place at a later time or date than originally planned.
Example
The game has already been postponed three times.
postulate
To suggest or assume the existence, fact, or truth of something as a basis for reasoning.
Example
Darwin postulated that all species descend from common ancestors through natural selection.
pour
To make a liquid or other substance flow from a container in a continuous stream, especially by holding the container at an angle.
Example
Pour the sauce over the pasta.
practice
Doing an activity or training regularly so that you can improve your skill; the time you spend doing this.
Example
conversation practice
preach
To give a religious talk in a public place, especially in a church during a service.
Example
She preached to the congregation about forgiveness.
precede
To happen before something or come before something/somebody in order.
Example
the years preceding the war
precipitate
To cause an event or situation to happen suddenly or prematurely.
Example
The assassination precipitated a crisis that would last for nearly a decade.
preclude
To prevent something from happening; to make impossible.
Example
His prior conviction precluded him from holding any public office.
preempt
To take action in order to prevent an anticipated event from occurring.
Example
The government issued a statement to preempt speculation about the policy change.
prefer
To like one thing or person better than another; to choose one thing rather than something else because you like it better.
Example
‘Coffee or tea?’ ‘I'd prefer tea, thanks.’
prepare
To make something or somebody ready to be used or to do something.
Example
The chef prepared a delicious meal for the guests.
prescribe
To tell somebody to take a particular medicine or have a particular treatment; to write a prescription for a particular medicine, etc.
Example
Valium is usually prescribed to treat anxiety.
present
To show or offer something for other people to look at or consider.
Example
Are you presenting a paper at the conference?
preserve
To keep a particular quality, feature, etc.; to make sure that something is kept.
Example
He was anxious to preserve his reputation.
preside
To lead or be in charge of a meeting, ceremony, etc.
Example
the presiding judge
press
To push part of a device, etc. in order to make it work.
Example
Press the red button to start the machine.
pretend
To behave in a particular way, in order to make other people believe something that is not true.
Example
I'm tired of having to pretend all the time.
prevail
To exist or be very common at a particular time or in a particular place.
Example
We were horrified at the conditions prevailing in local prisons.
prevaricate
To speak or act evasively; to avoid stating the truth directly.
Example
When pressed by the committee, the official continued to prevaricate rather than answer.
prevent
To stop somebody from doing something; to stop something from happening.
Example
The accident could have been prevented.
prime
Main; most important; basic.
Example
My prime concern is to protect my property.
To produce letters, pictures, etc. on paper using a machine that puts ink (= coloured liquid) on the surface.
Example
I'm printing a copy of the document for you.
probe
To ask questions in order to find out secret or hidden information about somebody/something.
Example
He didn't like the media probing into his past.
proclaim
To publicly and officially tell people about something important.
Example
The president proclaimed a state of emergency.
procrastinate
To delay or postpone action; to put off doing something.
Example
The administration had procrastinated for months before addressing the infrastructure crisis.
procure
To obtain something, especially through effort or care.
Example
The agency was tasked with procuring medical equipment for field hospitals.
produce
To make things to be sold, especially in large quantities.
Example
Our company mainly produces goods for export.
profess
To claim openly and often insincerely that one has a quality or feeling.
Example
He professed admiration for transparency while simultaneously concealing crucial information.
proffer
To hold out or offer something for acceptance.
Example
The mediator proffered a compromise that neither side found entirely satisfactory.
prohibit
To stop something from being done or used especially by law.
Example
a law prohibiting the sale of alcohol
project
To estimate what the size, cost or amount of something will be in the future based on what is happening now.
Example
be projected, A growth rate of 4 per cent is projected for next year.
promote
To help sell a product, service, etc. or make it more popular by advertising it or offering it at a special price.
Example
The band has gone on tour to promote their new album.
prompt
To make somebody decide to do something; to cause something to happen.
Example
The discovery of the bomb prompted an increase in security.
pronounce
To make the sound of a word or letter in a particular way.
Example
to pronounce a word/syllable/vowel/consonant
propose
To suggest a plan, an idea, etc. for people to think about and decide on.
Example
The government proposed changes to the voting system.
proscribe
To officially forbid something; to denounce or condemn.
Example
The organisation was proscribed by the government following the terrorist attack.
prosecute
To officially charge somebody with a crime in court.
Example
The police decided not to prosecute.
prospect
To search an area for valuable minerals, especially gold or oil.
Example
They went prospecting for gold in the mountains.
protect
To make sure that somebody/something is not harmed, injured, damaged, etc.
Example
Wearing sunscreen helps protect your skin from the sun.
protest
To say or do something to show that you disagree with something or think it is bad, especially publicly.
Example
There's no use protesting, I won't change my mind.
protract
To prolong or extend something in duration.
Example
Tactical delays protracted the negotiations well beyond their intended conclusion.
provide
To give something to somebody or make it available for them to use.
Example
Please provide the following information.
provoke
To cause a particular reaction or have a particular effect.
Example
The announcement provoked a storm of protest.
publish
To produce a book, magazine, CD-ROM, etc. and sell it to the public.
Example
to publish a book/novel/magazine/paper
pull
To take hold of something and use force in order to move it or try to move it towards yourself.
Example
You push and I'll pull.
pump
To make water, air, gas, etc. flow in a particular direction by using a pump or something that works like a pump.
Example
The engine is used for pumping water out of the mine.
punch
To hit somebody/something hard with your fist (= closed hand).
Example
He was kicked and punched as he lay on the ground.
punish
To make somebody suffer because they have broken the law or done something wrong.
Example
Those responsible for this crime will be severely punished.
purchase
To buy something.
Example
Please ensure that you purchase your ticket in advance.
purport
To claim or appear to be or do something, often falsely.
Example
The document purported to be an official government communique, but was later found to be forged.
pursue
To do something or try to achieve something over a period of time.
Example
to pursue a goal
put
To move something into a particular place or position.
Example
Put the cases down there, please.
puzzle
To make someone feel confused because they cannot understand or explain something.
Example
His sudden change of mood puzzled everyone in the room.
qualify
To reach the standard of ability or knowledge needed to do a particular job, for example by completing a course of study or passing exams.
Example
How long does it take to qualify?
quash
To reject or void a decision; or to suppress something completely.
Example
The appeal court quashed the conviction on procedural grounds.
quell
To suppress a feeling or put an end to a rebellion or disorder.
Example
Authorities deployed additional officers to quell the unrest in the capital.
question
To ask somebody questions about something, especially officially.
Example
Police are keen to question any witnesses.
quit
To leave your job, school, etc.
Example
If I don't get more money I'll quit.
quote
To repeat the exact words that another person has said or written.
Example
She quoted a famous line from Shakespeare in her speech.
rail
To complain or protest strongly and angrily about something.
Example
He railed against the new policy at the meeting.
rain
When it rains, water falls from the sky in drops.
Example
Is it raining?
raise
To lift or move something to a higher level.
Example
She raised the gun and fired.
rally
To come together or bring people together in order to help or support somebody/something.
Example
The cabinet rallied behind the Prime Minister.
rank
To give somebody/something a particular position on a scale according to quality, importance, success, etc.; to have a position of this kind.
Example
In most Australian elections, electors are required to rank all candidates.
ratify
To give formal consent to a treaty, contract, or agreement, making it officially valid.
Example
The senate ratified the climate accord after extensive cross-party negotiations.
reach
To arrive at the place that you have been travelling to.
Example
They didn't reach the border until after dark.
react
To change or behave in a particular way as a result of or in response to something.
Example
I nudged her but she didn't react.
read
To look at and understand the meaning of written or printed words or symbols.
Example
She's still learning to read.
rear
At or near the back of something.
Example
front and rear windows
reassure
To say or do something that makes somebody less frightened or worried.
Example
They tried to reassure her, but she still felt anxious.
rebuff
To reject or snub in an abrupt or ungracious manner.
Example
Her attempts to open a dialogue were rebuffed at every stage.
rebuild
To build or put something together again.
Example
After the earthquake, the people set about rebuilding their homes.
rebuke
To express sharp disapproval of someone because of their behaviour.
Example
The UN Security Council rebuked the nation for its repeated violations of the ceasefire.
recant
To say that one no longer holds a previously held opinion or belief.
Example
Under intense institutional pressure, he publicly recanted his findings.
receive
To get or accept something that is sent or given to you.
Example
receive something
reciprocate
To respond to a gesture or action by making a corresponding one.
Example
She hoped he would reciprocate her candour with equal openness.
reckon
To think something or have an opinion about something.
Example
I reckon (that) I’m going to get that job.
recommend
To tell somebody that something is good or useful, or that somebody would be suitable for a particular job, etc.
Example
The hotel's new restaurant comes highly recommended (= a lot of people have praised it).
reconcile
To restore friendly relations; or to make two facts or beliefs compatible.
Example
It is difficult to reconcile the official narrative with the evidence now available.
recount
Sound or pictures that have been recorded on computer files or on CD, DVD, video, etc.
Example
an audio recording
recruit
To find new people to join a company, an organization, the armed forces, etc.
Example
We are trying to recruit officers from more diverse backgrounds.
rectify
To put right; to correct something that is wrong.
Example
Steps were taken to rectify the procedural errors that had invalidated the first vote.
recycle
To treat things that have already been used so that they can be used again.
Example
to recycle waste/rubbish
redeem
To compensate for faults or restore one's reputation; to recover by payment.
Example
A strong final chapter redeemed an otherwise uneven piece of scholarship.
reduce
To make something less or smaller in size, quantity, price, etc.; to become less or smaller in size, quantity, etc.
Example
Reduce speed now (= on a sign).
refer
To send somebody/something to somebody/something for help, advice or a decision.
Example
My doctor referred me to a specialist.
referee
To act as the official who controls play in a sports match.
Example
She has refereed several international matches this season.
reform
To improve a system, an organization, a law, etc. by making changes to it.
Example
proposals to reform the social security system
refuse
To say or show that you will not do something that somebody has asked you to do.
Example
Go on, ask her; she can hardly refuse.
refute
To prove a statement or theory to be wrong or false.
Example
The study effectively refuted the hypothesis that had dominated the field for two decades.
regain
To get back something you no longer have, especially an ability or a quality.
Example
I struggled to regain some dignity.
regard
To think about somebody/something in a particular way.
Example
They regarded people outside their own town with suspicion.
register
To record your/somebody’s/something’s name on an official list.
Example
You can also register online.
regret
To feel sorry about something you have done or about something that you have not been able to do.
Example
If you don't do it now, you'll only regret it.
regulate
To control something by means of rules.
Example
The department is responsible for regulating the insurance industry.
reign
To rule as king, queen, emperor, etc.
Example
It was the first visit by a British reigning monarch to Russia.
reinforce
To make a feeling, an idea, etc. stronger.
Example
The experience reinforced my sense of loss.
relate
Show or make a connection between two or more things.
Example
I found it difficult to relate the two ideas in my mind.
relax
To rest while you are doing something that you enjoy, especially after work or effort.
Example
Just relax and enjoy the movie.
release
To let somebody come out of a place where they have been kept or stuck and unable to leave or move.
Example
The authorities decided to release the prisoner early.
relegate
To assign an inferior rank or position to someone or something.
Example
The issue was relegated to a footnote in an otherwise comprehensive report.
relieve
To remove or reduce an unpleasant feeling or pain.
Example
to relieve the symptoms of a cold
relinquish
To voluntarily cease to keep or claim; to give up.
Example
She relinquished control of the company to focus on her philanthropic work.
relish
To enjoy greatly; to take pleasure in.
Example
He relished the opportunity to challenge conventional thinking in the lecture theatre.
rely
To need or depend on someone or something for help or support.
Example
You can rely on me to keep your secret.
remain
To continue to be something; to be still in the same state or condition.
Example
remain + adj., to remain silent
remark
To say or write a comment about something/somebody.
Example
Sport, George Orwell once remarked, is like war.
remind
To help somebody remember something, especially something important that they must do.
Example
I'm sorry, I've forgotten your name. Can you remind me?
remit
To cancel or refrain from inflicting a debt or punishment; or to transmit money.
Example
The judge remitted the fine in light of the defendant's exceptional circumstances.
remove
To take somebody/something away from a place.
Example
Illegally parked vehicles will be removed.
render
To cause somebody/something to be in a particular state or condition.
Example
to render something harmless/useless/ineffective
renege
To go back on a promise, undertaking, or contract.
Example
The government was widely condemned for reneging on its pre-election commitments.
renew
To begin something again after it stopped or was interrupted.
Example
The army renewed its assault on the capital.
renounce
To formally declare one's abandonment of a claim, right, or possession.
Example
She renounced her citizenship in protest at the country's human rights record.
rent
To regularly pay money to somebody so that you can use something that they own, such as a house, a room, some land, etc.
Example
Are you looking to buy or rent?
repair
To fix something that is broken, damaged or torn.
Example
to repair a car/television
repeal
To revoke or annul a law or act of parliament.
Example
Campaigners called on legislators to repeal the outdated and discriminatory statute.
replace
To be used instead of somebody/something else; to do something instead of somebody/something else.
Example
The new design will eventually replace all existing models.
replenish
To fill up again; to restore a supply that has been used.
Example
The organisation replenished its emergency stockpiles ahead of the monsoon season.
report
To give people information about something that you have heard, seen, done, etc.
Example
The crash happened seconds after the pilot reported engine trouble.
represent
To be a member of a group of people and act or speak for them at an event, a meeting, etc.
Example
The competition attracted over 500 contestants representing eight different countries.
reproach
To address someone in a way that expresses disappointment and disapproval.
Example
She reproached herself for not acting sooner when the warning signs had been clear.
reproduce
To make a copy of a picture, piece of text, etc.
Example
It is illegal to reproduce these worksheets without permission from the publisher.
repudiate
To refuse to accept; to deny the truth or validity of something.
Example
The committee repudiated the findings of the inquiry as methodologically flawed.
require
To need something; to depend on somebody/something.
Example
These pets require a lot of care and attention.
rescind
To revoke, cancel, or repeal a law, order, or agreement.
Example
The offer of employment was rescinded after the background check revealed discrepancies.
rescue
To save somebody/something from a dangerous or harmful situation.
Example
The coastguard rescued six people from the sinking boat.
resemble
To look like or be similar to another person or thing.
Example
She closely resembles her sister.
reserve
To ask for a seat, table, room, etc. to be available for you or somebody else at a future time.
Example
I'd like to reserve a table for three for eight o'clock.
reside
To live in a particular place.
Example
He returned to Britain in 1939, having resided abroad for many years.
resign
To officially tell somebody that you are leaving your job, an organization, etc.
Example
She was forced to resign due to ill health.
resist
To refuse to accept something and try to stop it from happening.
Example
They are determined to resist pressure to change the law.
resolve
To find an acceptable solution to a problem or difficulty.
Example
The two countries managed to resolve their differences peacefully.
resort
To use or do something, often something undesirable, because no other choice is available.
Example
They had to resort to legal action to get their money back.
respect
To have a very good opinion of somebody/something; to admire somebody/something.
Example
I respect Jack's opinion on most subjects.
respond
To give a spoken or written answer to somebody/something.
Example
I asked him his name, but he didn't respond.
restore
To bring back a situation or feeling that existed before.
Example
The measures are intended to restore public confidence in the economy.
restrict
To limit the size, amount or range of something.
Example
Speed is restricted to 30 mph in towns.
resume
If you resume an activity, or if it resumes, it begins again or continues after being interrupted.
Example
The meeting will resume after lunch.
retail
To sell goods to the public, usually through shops; or to be sold for a particular price.
Example
The new phone retails at around £800.
retain
To keep something; to continue to have something.
Example
to retain your independence
retaliate
To make an attack in return for a similar attack; to seek revenge.
Example
The state threatened to retaliate with economic sanctions if negotiations broke down.
retract
To withdraw a statement or claim as untrue or unjustified.
Example
The newspaper was forced to retract the story after it emerged the source was unreliable.
retreat
To move away from a place or an enemy because you are in danger or because you have been defeated.
Example
The army was forced to retreat after suffering heavy losses.
retrieve
To bring or get something back, especially from a place where it should not be.
Example
She bent to retrieve her comb from the floor.
return
To come or go back from one place to another.
Example
I waited a long time for him to return.
reveal
To make something known to somebody.
Example
The report revealed some surprising facts about the company.
revere
To feel deep respect or admiration for someone or something.
Example
He was revered by his students as one of the most inspiring teachers of his generation.
reverse
To change something completely so that it is the opposite of what it was before.
Example
Falling birth rates may reverse the trend towards early retirement.
revise
To change your opinions or plans, for example because of something you have learned.
Example
I can see I will have to revise my opinions of his abilities now.
revive
To become, or to make somebody/something become, conscious or healthy and strong again.
Example
The flowers soon revived in water.
revoke
To officially cancel a decree, decision, or promise.
Example
Her professional licence was revoked following the disciplinary tribunal's findings.
reward
To give something to somebody because they have done something good, worked hard, etc.
Example
She was rewarded for her efforts with a cash bonus.
ride
To sit on an animal, especially a horse, and control it as it moves.
Example
I learnt to ride as a child.
rip
To tear something or to become torn, often suddenly or violently.
Example
I ripped my jeans on the fence.
rise
To come or go upwards; to reach a higher level or position.
Example
The curtain rose to reveal an empty stage.
risk
To put something valuable or important in a dangerous situation, in which it could be lost or damaged.
Example
He risked his life to save her.
rival
Competing with another person, company, thing, etc.
Example
a rival bid/claim/offer
rob
To steal money or property from a person or place.
Example
to rob a bank
rocket
To rise or increase very quickly and steeply.
Example
House prices have rocketed in the past two years.
roll
To turn over and over and move in a particular direction; to make a round object do this.
Example
The ball rolled down the hill.
romance
To try to develop a romantic relationship with someone by paying them special attention.
Example
He romanced her with flowers and candlelit dinners.
root
To send out roots and start to grow into the soil; or to search for something by moving things around.
Example
She rooted through her bag for her keys.
rotate
To move or turn around a central fixed point; to make something do this.
Example
Stay well away from the helicopter when its blades start to rotate.
row
To make a boat move through water using oars.
Example
They rowed across the lake before sunset.
ruin
To damage something so badly that it loses all its value, pleasure, etc.
Example
The bad weather ruined our trip.
rule
To control and have authority over a country, a group of people, etc.
Example
At that time, King John ruled England.
ruminate
To think deeply and at length about something.
Example
He spent the long train journey ruminating on the consequences of his resignation.
run
To move using your legs, going faster than when you walk.
Example
Can you run as fast as Mike?
rupture
To break or burst suddenly; to cause a breach in relations.
Example
The scandal ruptured the coalition's fragile unity almost beyond repair.
safeguard
To protect from harm or damage with appropriate measures.
Example
Robust legislation is required to safeguard the rights of vulnerable populations.
sail
To travel on water using sails or an engine.
Example
to sail into harbour
sample
To try a small amount of a particular food to see what it is like; to experience something for a short time to see what it is like.
Example
I sampled the delights of Greek cooking for the first time.
satiate
To satisfy fully an appetite or desire, sometimes to excess.
Example
The exhibition did little to satiate her curiosity about the artist's private life.
satisfy
To make somebody pleased by doing or giving them what they want.
Example
Nothing satisfies him—he's always complaining.
say
To speak or tell somebody something, using words.
Example
‘Hello!’ she said.
scan
To look quickly but not very carefully at a document, etc.
Example
I scanned the list quickly for my name.
scare
To frighten somebody.
Example
You scared me.
scorn
To feel or express contempt or disdain for.
Example
She scorned any suggestion that the compromise represented a meaningful concession.
scream
To give a loud, high shout, because you are hurt, frightened, excited, etc.
Example
There was a bang and I heard someone scream.
scrutinise
To examine or inspect closely and thoroughly.
Example
The accounts were scrutinised by auditors for any evidence of financial irregularity.
search
To look carefully for something/somebody; to examine a particular place when looking for something/somebody.
Example
She searched in vain for her passport.
see
To become aware of somebody/something by using your eyes.
Example
She looked for him but couldn't see him in the crowd.
seek
To look for something/somebody.
Example
Drivers are advised to seek alternative routes.
seem
To give the impression of being or doing something.
Example
You seem happy.
seize
To take somebody/something in your hand suddenly and using force.
Example
She tried to seize the gun from him.
select
To choose somebody/something from a group of people or things, usually according to a system.
Example
He hasn't been selected for the team.
sell
To give something to somebody in exchange for money.
Example
I recently sold my bike.
send
To make something go or be taken to a place, especially by post, email, radio, etc.
Example
She sent a letter of support.
serve
To give somebody food or drink, for example at a restaurant or during a meal.
Example
Breakfast is served between 7 and 10 a.m.
set
To prepare or arrange something so that it is ready for use or in position.
Example
Have you set the alarm clock?
settle
To put an end to an argument or a disagreement.
Example
They finally settled their disagreement through mediation.
shake
To move or make somebody/something move with short quick movements from side to side or up and down.
Example
The whole house shakes when a train goes past.
shall
Used with I and we for talking about or predicting the future.
Example
This time next week I shall be in Scotland.
shaped
Having the type of shape mentioned.
Example
a huge balloon shaped like a giant cow
share
To have, use or experience something at the same time as somebody else.
Example
There isn't an empty table. Would you mind sharing?
shatter
To suddenly break into small pieces; to make something suddenly break into small pieces.
Example
He dropped the vase and it shattered into pieces on the floor.
shed
To get rid of something that is no longer wanted.
Example
The factory is shedding a large number of jobs.
shirk
To avoid a duty or responsibility; to evade an obligation.
Example
Wealthier nations must not shirk their obligations to address global climate change.
shop
To buy things in shops.
Example
I shop there from time to time.
should
Used to show what is right, appropriate, etc., especially when criticizing somebody’s actions.
Example
You shouldn't drink and drive.
show
To make something clear; to prove something.
Example
The figures clearly show that her claims are false.
shrink
To become smaller, especially when washed in water that is too hot; to make clothes, cloth, etc. smaller in this way.
Example
My sweater shrank in the wash.
shun
To persistently avoid, ignore, or reject someone or something.
Example
After the scandal, he was shunned by former colleagues and associates alike.
shut
To close something; to become closed.
Example
The window won't shut.
sigh
To take and then let out a long deep breath that can be heard, to show that you are disappointed, sad, tired, etc.
Example
He sighed deeply at the thought.
signal
To make a movement or sound to give somebody a message, an order, etc.
Example
Don't fire until I signal.
simulate
To create particular conditions that exist in real life using computers, models, etc., usually for study or training purposes.
Example
Computer software can be used to simulate conditions on the seabed.
sing
To make musical sounds with your voice in the form of a song or tune.
Example
I just can't sing in tune!
sink
To go down below the surface or towards the bottom of a liquid or soft substance.
Example
The ship sank to the bottom of the sea.
skip
To move forwards lightly and quickly making a little jump with each step.
Example
She skipped happily along beside me.
slam
To shut, or to make something shut, with a lot of force, making a loud noise.
Example
I heard the door slam behind him.
slap
To hit somebody/something with the flat part of your hand.
Example
She slapped his face hard.
slash
To make a long cut with a sharp object, especially in a violent way.
Example
Someone had slashed the tyres on my car.
sleep
To rest with your eyes closed and your mind and body not active.
Example
Let her sleep—it'll do her good.
slice
To cut something into slices.
Example
to slice (up) onions
slide
To move easily over a smooth or wet surface; to make something move in this way.
Example
As I turned left on a bend, my car started to slide.
slip
To slide a short distance by accident so that you fall or nearly fall.
Example
She slipped and landed flat on her back.
smash
To break something, or to be broken, violently and noisily into many pieces.
Example
Several windows had been smashed.
smell
To have a particular smell.
Example
The room smelt damp.
snap
To break something suddenly with a sharp noise; to be broken in this way.
Example
The wind had snapped the tree in two.
snow
When it snows, snow falls from the sky.
Example
It's been snowing heavily all day.
soak
To put something in liquid for a time so that it becomes completely wet; to become completely wet in this way.
Example
I usually soak the beans overnight.
soar
If the value, amount or level of something soars, it rises very quickly.
Example
soaring costs/prices/temperatures
solve
To find a way of dealing with a problem or difficult situation.
Example
Attempts are being made to solve the problem of waste disposal.
sound
To give a particular impression when heard or read about.
Example
to sound good/great/right/interesting
sow
To plant seeds; or to introduce ideas or feelings that will later develop.
Example
The divisive rhetoric served only to sow discord among communities that had once been united.
span
To last all through a period of time or to cover the whole of it.
Example
His acting career spanned 55 years.
spark
To cause something to start or develop, especially suddenly.
Example
The proposal would spark a storm of protest around the country.
spawn
To produce or generate something, especially in large quantities.
Example
The success of the first novel spawned a series of sequels and a major film adaptation.
speak
To talk to somebody about something; to have a conversation with somebody.
Example
The President refused to speak to reporters.
specialize
To become an expert in a particular area of work, study or business; to spend more time on one area of work, etc. than on others.
Example
Many students prefer not to specialize too soon.
specify
To state something, especially by giving an exact measurement, time, exact instructions, etc.
Example
Remember to specify your size when ordering clothes.
speculate
To form an opinion about something without knowing all the details or facts.
Example
We all speculated about the reasons for her resignation.
spell
To say or write the letters of a word in the correct order.
Example
How do you spell your surname?
spend
To give money to pay for goods, services, etc.
Example
I've spent all my money already.
spill
To flow over the edge of a container by accident; to make liquid do this.
Example
Water had spilled out of the bucket onto the floor.
spin
To turn round and round quickly; to make something do this.
Example
The plane was spinning out of control.
split
To divide, or to make something divide, into two or more parts.
Example
He was a member of the team that split the atom in 1932.
spoil
To change something good into something bad, unpleasant, etc.
Example
Our camping trip was spoilt by bad weather.
spoken
Involving speaking rather than writing; expressed in speech rather than in writing.
Example
spoken English
spot
To see or notice a person or thing, especially suddenly or when it is not easy to do so.
Example
Can you spot the difference between these two pictures?
spread
To affect or make something affect, be known by, or be used by more and more people.
Example
The news had spread and was causing great excitement.
spring
To move suddenly and with one quick movement in a particular direction.
Example
The cat crouched ready to spring.
spurn
To reject with contempt or disdain.
Example
She spurned every attempt at reconciliation, convinced the breach was irreparable.
squander
To waste something, especially money or time, in a reckless manner.
Example
The administration squandered the opportunity for meaningful reform during its first term.
stab
To push a sharp, pointed object, especially a knife, into somebody, killing or injuring them.
Example
He was stabbed to death in a racist attack.
stabilize
To become or to make something become steady and unlikely to change; to make something stable.
Example
The patient's condition stabilized.
stall
To stop functioning, especially of a vehicle's engine; or to deliberately delay something or someone.
Example
The car stalled at the traffic lights and would not start again.
start
To begin doing or using something.
Example
I start work at nine.
starve
To suffer or die because you do not have enough food to eat; to make somebody suffer or die in this way.
Example
The animals were left to starve to death.
stay
To continue to be in a particular place for a period of time without moving away.
Example
Stay there and don't move!
steer
To control the direction in which a boat, car, etc. moves.
Example
He steered the boat into the harbour.
stem
To stop something that is flowing from spreading or increasing.
Example
The cut was bandaged to stem the bleeding.
stick
To fix something to something else, usually with a sticky substance; to become fixed to something in this way.
Example
He stuck a stamp on the envelope.
stifle
To restrain or suppress a reaction or expression; to prevent from developing.
Example
Heavy-handed regulation risks stifling the innovation the industry desperately needs.
stimulate
To make something develop or become more active; to encourage something.
Example
The exhibition has stimulated interest in her work.
stipulate
To demand or specify a requirement as part of an agreement.
Example
The contract stipulated that all deliverables must be submitted within sixty days.
stir
To move a liquid or substance around, using a spoon or something similar, in order to mix it completely.
Example
She stirred her tea.
stop
To no longer move; to make somebody/something no longer move.
Example
The car stopped at the traffic lights.
store
To put something somewhere and keep it there to use later.
Example
We do not have adequate space to store these documents.
strengthen
To become more powerful or effective; to make somebody/something more powerful or effective.
Example
Her position in the party has strengthened in recent weeks.
strike
To hit somebody/something hard or with force.
Example
The ship struck a rock.
strip
To take off all or most of your clothes or another person’s clothes.
Example
I stripped and washed myself all over.
strive
To try very hard to achieve something.
Example
We encourage all members to strive for the highest standards.
struggle
To try very hard to do something when it is difficult or when there are a lot of problems.
Example
life as a struggling artist (= one who is very poor)
study
To spend time learning about a subject by reading, going to college, etc.
Example
He sat up very late that night, studying.
stuff
To fill a space or container tightly with something.
Example
stuff A with B, She had 500 envelopes to stuff with leaflets.
stun
To make a person or an animal unconscious for a short time, especially by hitting them on the head.
Example
The fall stunned me for a moment.
subdue
To overcome, quieten, or bring under control by force or persuasion.
Example
Officers struggled for several minutes before subduing the agitated suspect.
subjugate
To bring under domination or control, especially by conquest.
Example
The colonial power subjugated the indigenous population through a combination of law and force.
submit
To give a document, proposal, etc. to somebody in authority so that they can study or consider it.
Example
You need to submit your application before the deadline.
substantiate
To provide evidence to support or prove the truth of something.
Example
The prosecution was unable to substantiate its most serious allegations.
substitute
To take the place of somebody/something else; to use somebody/something instead of somebody/something else.
Example
Nothing can substitute for the advice your doctor is able to give you.
subvert
To undermine the power and authority of an established system or institution.
Example
The disinformation campaign was designed to subvert democratic institutions from within.
succeed
To achieve something that you have been trying to do or get; to have the result or effect that was intended.
Example
Our plan succeeded.
succumb
To fail to resist pressure, temptation, or illness; to yield.
Example
Despite his resilience, he eventually succumbed to the relentless commercial pressure.
suck
To take liquid, air, etc. into your mouth by using the muscles of your lips.
Example
to suck the juice from an orange
sue
To make a claim against a person or an organization in court about something that they have said or done to harm you.
Example
They threatened to sue if the work was not completed.
suffer
To be badly affected by a disease, pain, sad feelings, a lack of something, etc.
Example
I hate to see animals suffering.
suggest
To put forward an idea or a plan for other people to think about.
Example
I'd like to suggest a different explanation for the company's decline.
summarize
To give a summary of something.
Example
This essay briefly summarizes some of our approaches.
supersede
To take the place of a previous thing; to replace something as more important.
Example
The new directive supersedes all previous guidance on the subject.
supervise
To be in charge of somebody/something and make sure that everything is done correctly, safely, etc.
Example
She supervises a team of twenty employees.
supplant
To supersede and replace; to take the place of through force or stratagem.
Example
Digital streaming has largely supplanted physical media in the music industry.
supplement
To add something to something in order to improve it or make it more complete.
Example
a diet supplemented with vitamin pills
supply
To provide somebody/something with something that they need or want, especially in large quantities.
Example
The company supplied sports equipment to schools.
support
To help or encourage somebody/something by saying or showing that you agree with them/it.
Example
My family has always supported my decisions.
suppress
To put an end, often by force, to a group or an activity that is believed to threaten authority.
Example
The rebellion was brutally suppressed.
surge
To move quickly and with force in a particular direction.
Example
The gates opened and the crowd surged forward.
surmise
To suppose that something is true without having evidence to confirm it.
Example
From the brief exchange, she surmised that significant tensions remained unresolved.
surmount
To overcome a difficulty or obstacle.
Example
The team surmounted considerable logistical challenges to deliver the project on time.
surpass
To exceed; to be greater or better than.
Example
The final output surpassed even the most optimistic projections of the research team.
surrender
To admit that you have been defeated and want to stop fighting; to allow yourself to be caught, taken prisoner, etc.
Example
The rebel soldiers were forced to surrender.
surround
To be all around something/somebody.
Example
Tall trees surround the lake.
survive
To continue to live or exist.
Example
She was the last surviving member of the family.
suspect
To have an idea that something is probably true or likely to happen, especially something bad, but without having definite proof.
Example
As I had suspected all along, he was not a real policeman.
suspend
To hang something from something else.
Example
A lamp was suspended from the ceiling.
sustain
To provide enough of what somebody/something needs in order to live or exist.
Example
Which planets can sustain life?
swallow
To make food, drink, etc. go down your throat into your stomach.
Example
Always chew food well before swallowing it.
sweep
To clean a room, surface, etc. using a broom (= a type of brush on a long handle).
Example
She swept the kitchen floor after dinner.
swim
To move through water by moving your arms and legs, without touching the bottom.
Example
I can't swim.
swing
To move backwards or forwards or from side to side while hanging from a fixed point; to make something do this.
Example
His arms swung as he walked.
switch
To change or make something change from one thing to another.
Example
We're in the process of switching over to a new system of invoicing.
tackle
To make a determined effort to deal with a difficult problem or situation.
Example
The government is determined to tackle inflation.
talk
To say things; to speak in order to give information or to express feelings, ideas, etc.
Example
Stop talking and listen!
tap
To hit somebody/something quickly and lightly.
Example
Someone tapped at the door.
tape
To record sound or pictures onto a tape, or to fasten or seal something using tape.
Example
The interview was taped for later broadcast on the radio.
tarnish
To damage or spoil the quality or reputation of something.
Example
The controversy tarnished the legacy of an otherwise distinguished public servant.
tax
To put a tax on somebody/something; to make somebody pay tax.
Example
His declared aim was to tax the rich.
teach
To give lessons to students in a school, college, university, etc.; to help somebody learn something by giving information about it.
Example
She teaches at our local school.
tear
To damage something by pulling it apart or into pieces or by cutting it on something sharp; to become damaged in this way.
Example
I tore my jeans on the fence.
telephone
To speak to somebody by phone.
Example
Please write or telephone for details.
tell
To give information to somebody by speaking or writing.
Example
He told the news to everybody he saw.
tempt
To attract somebody or make somebody want to do or have something, even if they know it is wrong.
Example
I was tempted by the dessert menu.
tend
To be likely to do something or to happen in a particular way because this is what often or usually happens.
Example
Women tend to live longer than men.
tender
Kind, gentle and loving.
Example
tender words
terminate
To end; to make something end.
Example
Your contract of employment terminates in December.
terrify
To make somebody feel extremely frightened.
Example
Flying terrifies her.
test
To find out how much somebody knows, or what they can do by asking them questions or giving them activities to perform.
Example
Students will be tested at the end of each module.
testify
To make a statement that something happened or that something is true, especially as a witness in court.
Example
She refused to testify against her husband.
thank
To tell somebody that you are grateful for something.
Example
I must write and thank Mary for the present.
think
To have a particular idea or opinion about something/somebody; to believe something.
Example
Do you really think (that) he'll win?
threaten
To say that you will cause trouble, hurt somebody, etc. if you do not get what you want.
Example
They broke my windows and threatened me.
thrive
To become, and continue to be, successful, strong, healthy, etc.
Example
New businesses thrive in this area.
thwart
To prevent someone from accomplishing something; to obstruct.
Example
Intelligence services thwarted the plot before any harm could be done.
tighten
To hold or fix something more securely in position; to make something or become more difficult to move, open or separate.
Example
Please tighten the lid so the soup doesn't spill.
tire
Feel or cause to feel in need of rest or sleep.
Example
Walking all day can tire you out.
tolerate
To allow somebody to do something that you do not agree with or like.
Example
Their relationship was tolerated but not encouraged.
torture
To hurt somebody physically or mentally in order to punish them or make them tell you something.
Example
Many of the rebels were captured and tortured by secret police.
toss
To throw something lightly or carelessly.
Example
I tossed the book aside and got up.
total
To reach a particular total.
Example
Imports totalled $1.5 billion last year.
trace
To find or discover somebody/something by looking carefully for them/it.
Example
We finally traced him to an address in Chicago.
trade
To buy and sell things.
Example
The firm openly traded in arms.
train
To teach a person or an animal the skills for a particular job or activity; to be taught in this way.
Example
highly trained professionals
transcend
To be or go beyond the range or limits of something.
Example
At its finest, great literature transcends cultural boundaries to speak universal truths.
transcribe
To put thoughts, speech, or data into written or printed form.
Example
The proceedings were transcribed in full and made available to the public.
transfer
To move from one place to another; to move something/somebody from one place to another.
Example
The film studio is transferring to Hollywood.
transform
To change the form of something; to change in form.
Example
The photochemical reactions transform the light into electrical impulses.
transgress
To violate or go beyond the bounds of a moral principle or law.
Example
Anyone who transgresses the code of conduct is subject to immediate disciplinary action.
translate
To express the meaning of speech or writing in a different language.
Example
He translated the letter into English.
transmit
To send an electronic signal, radio or television broadcast, etc.
Example
signals transmitted from a satellite
transport
To take something/somebody from one place to another in a vehicle.
Example
to transport goods/passengers
trap
To put somebody in a dangerous place that they cannot get out of.
Example
be trapped, Help! I'm trapped!
travel
To go from one place to another, especially over a long distance.
Example
I go to bed early if I'm travelling the next day.
trick
To make somebody believe something which is not true, especially in order to cheat them.
Example
I'd been tricked and I felt stupid.
trigger
To make something happen suddenly.
Example
Nuts can trigger off a violent allergic reaction.
truncate
To shorten something by cutting off the top or end.
Example
The editor truncated the final chapter, removing passages essential to the argument.
try
To make an attempt or effort to do or get something.
Example
I don't know if I can come but I'll try.
turn
To move or make something move around a central point.
Example
The wheels of the car began to turn.
twist
To bend or turn something into a particular shape.
Example
Twist the wire to form a circle.
type
To write something using a computer keyboard or typewriter.
Example
How fast can you type?
undergo
To experience something, especially a change or something unpleasant.
Example
to undergo tests/trials/repairs
understand
To know or realize the meaning of words, a language, what somebody says, etc.
Example
Can you understand French?
undertake
To make yourself responsible for something and start doing it.
Example
to undertake a task/project
unfold
To spread open or flat something that has previously been folded; to become open and flat.
Example
to unfold a map
unite
To join together with other people in order to do something as a group.
Example
Nationalist parties united to oppose the government's plans.
upbraid
To find fault with or scold someone severely.
Example
The headmaster upbraided the students for their conduct during the ceremony.
update
To make something more modern by adding new parts, etc.
Example
an updated version of the app
upset
To make somebody/yourself feel unhappy, anxious or annoyed.
Example
This decision is likely to upset a lot of people.
urge
To advise or try hard to persuade somebody to do something.
Example
If you ever get the chance to visit this place, I strongly urge you to do so.
use
To do something with a machine, a method, an object, etc. for a particular purpose.
Example
Can I use the photocopier?
usurp
To take a position of power or importance illegally or by force.
Example
His rivals attempted to usurp his authority while he was incapacitated.
vacillate
To waver between different opinions or actions; to be indecisive.
Example
The committee vacillated for weeks before finally reaching a consensus.
validate
To demonstrate or support the truth or value of something.
Example
Subsequent field research validated the theoretical model proposed in the paper.
value
To think that somebody/something is important.
Example
He has come to value her advice and support.
vanish
To disappear suddenly and/or in a way that you cannot explain.
Example
He turned around and vanished into the house.
vanquish
To defeat thoroughly; to overcome completely.
Example
The incumbent was vanquished in a landslide that no political analyst had anticipated.
vary
To be different from each other in size, shape, etc.
Example
New techniques were introduced with varying degrees of success.
verify
To check that something is true or accurate.
Example
We have no way of verifying his story.
vilify
To speak or write about someone in an abusively disparaging manner.
Example
Whistleblowers are too often vilified by the institutions they seek to hold accountable.
vindicate
To clear someone of blame or suspicion; to show that something is justified.
Example
The independent investigation fully vindicated her decision to raise the alarm.
violate
To go against or refuse to obey a law, an agreement, etc.
Example
to violate international law
visit
To go to see a person or a place for a period of time.
Example
My parents are coming to visit me next week.
vituperate
To blame or insult someone in strong or violent language.
Example
The pamphleteer vituperated against the ruling class with extraordinary vehemence.
volunteer
To offer to do something without being forced to do it or without getting paid for it.
Example
He has been volunteering for 11 years now.
vote
To show formally by marking a paper, raising your hand, using a voting machine, etc. which person you want to win an election, or which plan or idea you support.
Example
How did you vote at the last election?
wager
To bet a sum of money on the outcome of an event; to risk.
Example
He wagered his professional reputation on the success of a highly unconventional strategy.
wait
To stay where you are or delay doing something until somebody/something comes or something happens.
Example
She rang the bell and waited.
wake
To stop sleeping; to make somebody stop sleeping.
Example
I always wake early in the summer.
walk
To move or go somewhere by putting one foot in front of the other on the ground, but without running.
Example
The baby is just learning to walk.
wander
To walk slowly around or to a place, often without any particular sense of purpose or direction.
Example
She wandered aimlessly around the streets.
wane
To decrease in vigour, power, or extent; to decline.
Example
Public enthusiasm for the reforms had begun to wane by the second year of implementation.
want
To have a desire or a wish for something/somebody.
Example
Do you want some more tea?
warn
To tell somebody about something, especially something dangerous or unpleasant that is likely to happen, so that they can avoid it.
Example
I tried to warn him, but he wouldn't listen.
wash
To make something/somebody clean using water and usually soap.
Example
These jeans need washing.
watch
To look at somebody/something for a time, paying attention to what happens.
Example
I was in the living room, watching TV.
waver
To become unsteady or uncertain; to falter in resolution.
Example
She had never wavered in her commitment to the principles she had espoused from the outset.
weigh
To have a particular weight.
Example
How much do you weigh (= how heavy are you)?
welcome
To say hello to somebody in a friendly way when they arrive somewhere.
Example
They were at the door to welcome us.
wield
To hold and use a weapon or tool; to exercise power or influence.
Example
The editor wielded considerable influence over the political discourse of the era.
will
Used to say what someone is going to do, or to make a promise, offer, or request about the future.
Example
I will help you with your homework tonight.
win
To be the most successful in a competition, race, battle, etc.
Example
Which team won?
wish
To want something to happen or to be true even though it is unlikely or impossible.
Example
I wish I were taller.
withdraw
To take money out of a bank account.
Example
With this account, you can withdraw up to £300 a day.
withstand
To remain undamaged or unaffected by; to resist successfully.
Example
The structure was engineered to withstand seismic activity of the highest magnitude.
wonder
To think about something and try to decide what is true, what will happen, what you should do, etc.
Example
‘Why do you want to know?’ ‘No particular reason. I was just wondering.’
work
To do something that involves physical or mental effort, especially as part of a job.
Example
I can't work if I'm cold.
worry
To keep thinking about unpleasant things that might happen or about problems that you have.
Example
Don't worry. We have plenty of time.
would
Used in polite offers or invitations.
Example
Would you like a sandwich?
wrap
To cover something completely in paper or other material, for example when you are giving it as a present.
Example
He spent the evening wrapping up the Christmas presents.
write
To make letters or numbers on a surface, especially using a pen or a pencil.
Example
In some countries children don't start learning to read and write until they are six.
yell
To shout loudly, for example because you are angry, excited, frightened or in pain.
Example
He yelled at the other driver.
yield
To produce or provide a result, profit, or amount; or to give way to pressure, force, or persuasion.
Example
The investment yielded a strong return after five years.