B2 Nouns
B2 noun vocabulary in alphabetical order with definitions and example sentences.
accent
A way of pronouncing the words of a language that shows which country, area or social class a person comes from; how well somebody pronounces a particular language.
Example
a northern/Dublin/Scottish accent
accountant
A person whose job is to keep or check financial accounts.
Example
We talked to the company’s chief accountant.
accuracy
The state of being exact or correct; the ability to do something with skill and without making mistakes.
Example
They questioned the accuracy of the information in the file.
acid
A chemical, usually a liquid, that contains hydrogen and has a pH of less than seven. The hydrogen can be replaced by a metal to form a salt. Acids usually have a bitter sharp taste and can often burn holes in or damage things they touch.
Example
The acid burned a hole in her coat.
addiction
The condition of being unable to stop using or doing something as a habit, especially something harmful.
Example
cocaine addiction
administration
The activities that are done in order to plan, organize and run a business, school or other institution.
Example
Administration costs are passed on to the customer.
advance
Progress or a development in a particular activity or area of understanding.
Example
We live in an age of rapid technological advance.
affair
Events that are of public interest or political importance.
Example
world/international affairs
agency
A business or an organization that provides a particular service especially when representing other businesses or organizations.
Example
She works for an advertising agency.
agenda
A list of items to be discussed at a meeting.
Example
We have a very full agenda of issues to discuss.
aid
Money, food, etc. that is sent to help countries in difficult situations.
Example
humanitarian/food/medical aid
AIDS
A serious illness caused by a virus called HIV that attacks the body’s ability to resist infection (the abbreviation for ‘Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome’).
Example
the AIDS epidemic
aircraft
Any vehicle that can fly and carry goods or passengers.
Example
fighter/transport/military aircraft
alien
A person who is not a citizen of the country in which they live or work.
Example
an illegal alien
ambulance
A vehicle with special equipment, used for taking sick or injured people to a hospital.
Example
Call an ambulance!
analyst
A person whose job involves examining facts or materials in order to give an opinion on them.
Example
a political/financial analyst
ancestor
A person in your family who lived a long time ago.
Example
His ancestors had come to America from Ireland.
anger
The strong feeling that you have when something has happened that you think is bad and unfair.
Example
She had to find a way to express her pent-up anger.
angle
The space between two lines or surfaces that join, measured in degrees.
Example
a 45° angle
animation
The process of making films, videos and computer games in which drawings, models or images of people and animals seem to move.
Example
computer/cartoon animation
anniversary
A date that is an exact number of years after the date of an important or special event.
Example
on the anniversary of his wife’s death
anxiety
The state of feeling nervous or worried that something bad is going to happen.
Example
acute/intense/deep anxiety
apology
A word or statement saying sorry for something that has been done wrong or that causes a problem.
Example
to offer/make/demand/accept an apology
applicant
A person who makes a formal request for something (= applies for it), especially for a job, a place at a college or university, etc.
Example
There were over 500 applicants for the job.
approach
A way of dealing with somebody/something; a way of doing or thinking about something such as a problem or a task.
Example
She took the wrong approach in her dealings with them.
approval
The feeling that somebody/something is good or acceptable; a positive opinion of somebody/something.
Example
She desperately wanted to win her father's approval.
arms
Weapons, especially as used by the army, navy, etc.
Example
arms and ammunition
arrow
A thin stick with a sharp point at one end, which is shot from a bow.
Example
a bow and arrow
artwork
Pictures and photographs prepared for books, magazines, etc.
Example
Can you let me have the finished artwork for the poster by Friday?
aside
A remark made quietly so that not everyone can hear it, often in a play directly to the audience.
Example
"He has no idea what he is talking about," she said in an aside to her colleague.
aspect
A particular part or feature of a situation, an idea, a problem, etc.; a way in which it may be considered.
Example
The book aims to cover all aspects of city life.
assessment
An opinion or a judgement about somebody/something that has been thought about very carefully.
Example
a detailed assessment of the risks involved
asset
A person or thing that is valuable or useful to somebody/something.
Example
In his job, patience is an invaluable asset.
assistance
Help or support.
Example
technical/economic/military assistance
associate
A person you work with, do business with, or share an activity with.
Example
He introduced me to one of his business associates.
association
An official group of people who have joined together for a particular purpose.
Example
Do you belong to any professional or trade associations?
assumption
A belief or feeling that something is true or that something will happen, although there is no proof.
Example
an underlying/implicit assumption
attachment
A document that you send to somebody using email.
Example
No attachment was included.
attempt
An act of trying to do something, especially something difficult, often with no success.
Example
I passed my driving test at the first attempt.
auction
A public sale in which things are sold to the person who offers the most money for them.
Example
an auction of paintings
awareness
Knowing something; knowing that something exists and is important.
Example
an awareness of the importance of eating a healthy diet
bacteria
The simplest and smallest forms of life. Bacteria exist in large numbers in air, water and soil, and also in living and dead creatures and plants, and are often a cause of disease.
Example
Neither chilling nor freezing kills all bacteria.
badge
A small piece of metal or plastic, with a design or words on it, that a person wears or carries to show that they belong to an organization, support something, have achieved something, have a particular rank, etc.
Example
She wore a badge saying ‘Vote for Coates’.
ballet
A style of dancing that tells a dramatic story with music but no talking or singing.
Example
She wants to be a ballet dancer.
balloon
A small bag made of very thin rubber that becomes larger and rounder when you fill it with air or gas. Balloons are brightly coloured and used as decorations or toys.
Example
to blow up/burst/pop a balloon
bargain
A thing bought for less than the usual price.
Example
I picked up a few good bargains in the sale.
barrier
An object like a fence that prevents people from moving forward from one place to another.
Example
The crowd had to stand behind barriers.
basement
A room or rooms in a building, partly or completely below the level of the ground.
Example
Kitchen goods are sold in the basement.
basket
A container for holding or carrying things. Baskets are made of long thin pieces of material that bends and twists easily, for example plastic, wire or wicker.
Example
a shopping basket
bat
A piece of wood with a handle, made in various shapes and sizes, and used for hitting the ball in games such as baseball, cricket and table tennis.
Example
a baseball/cricket bat
being
Existence.
Example
The Irish Free State came into being in 1922.
bias
A strong feeling in favour of or against one group of people, or one side in an argument, often not based on fair judgement.
Example
accusations of political bias in news programmes (= that reports are unfair and show favour to one political party)
bid
An offer by a person or a company to pay a particular amount of money for something.
Example
A German firm launched a takeover bid for the company.
blanket
A large cover, often made of wool, used especially on beds to keep people warm.
Example
It’s cold tonight—can I have another blanket?
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
booking
An arrangement that you make in advance to buy a ticket to travel somewhere, go to the theatre, etc.
Example
a booking form/hall/clerk
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.
brick
Baked clay used for building walls, houses and other buildings; an individual block of this.
Example
The school is built of brick.
broadcaster
A person whose job is presenting or talking on television or radio programmes.
Example
She is a writer and broadcaster on environmental matters.
budget
The money that is available to a person or an organization and a plan of how it will be spent over a period of time.
Example
an annual budget of £10 million
bug
Any small insect.
Example
There's a bug crawling up your arm.
builder
A person whose job is to construct or repair houses.
Example
We hired a builder to renovate the kitchen.
bullet
A small metal object that is fired from a gun.
Example
He was found to have a single bullet wound in his chest.
bunch
A number of things of the same type which are growing or fastened together.
Example
a bunch of bananas, grapes, etc.
burn
An injury or a mark caused by fire, heat or acid.
Example
to have minor/severe/third-degree burns
cabin
A small room on a ship in which you live or sleep.
Example
I lay in my cabin feeling miserably seasick.
cable
A set of wires, covered in plastic or rubber, that carries electricity, phone signals, etc.
Example
fibre-optic cable
canal
A long straight passage dug in the ground and filled with water for boats and ships to travel along; a smaller passage used for carrying water to fields, crops, etc.
Example
the Panama/Suez Canal
cancer
A serious disease in which growths of cells, also called cancers, form in the body and kill normal body cells. The disease often causes death.
Example
breast/lung cancer
candle
A round stick of wax with a piece of string (called a wick) through the middle that is lit to give light as it burns.
Example
a flickering candle
capacity
The number of things or people that a container or space can hold.
Example
a fuel tank with a maximum capacity of 50 litres
capture
The act of capturing somebody/something or of being captured.
Example
He evaded capture for three days.
carbon
A chemical element. Carbon is found in all living things, existing in a pure state as diamond and graphite.
Example
carbon fibre
cast
All the people who act in a play or film.
Example
an all-star cast (= including many well-known actors)
cave
A large hole in the side of a hill or cliff or under the ground.
Example
the mouth (= the entrance) of the cave
cell
The smallest unit of living matter that can exist on its own. All plants and animals are made up of cells.
Example
red and white blood cells
certainty
The state of being certain.
Example
There is no certainty that the president's removal would end the civil war.
certificate
An official document that may be used to prove that the facts it states are true.
Example
a birth/marriage/death certificate
chairman
The person in charge of a meeting, who tells people when they can speak, etc.
Example
Sir Herbert took it upon himself to act as chairman.
championship
A competition to find the best player or team in a particular sport.
Example
the National Basketball Association Championship
characteristic
A typical feature or quality that something/somebody has.
Example
There were few similarities in the brothers' physical characteristics.
chase
An act of running or driving after somebody/something in order to catch them or it.
Example
The thieves were caught by police after a short chase.
cheek
Either side of the face below the eyes.
Example
chubby/rosy/pink cheeks
cheer
A shout of joy, support or praise.
Example
A great cheer went up from the crowd.
chief
A person with a high rank or the highest rank in a company or an organization.
Example
army/police chiefs
choir
A group of people who sing together, for example in church services or public performances.
Example
She sings in the school choir.
circuit
A line, route or journey around a place.
Example
The race ended with eight laps of a city centre circuit.
circumstance
The conditions and facts that are connected with and affect a situation, an event or an action.
Example
Police said there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding the boy's death.
citizen
A person who has the legal right to belong to a particular country.
Example
The defeat of the president did not change the lives of ordinary citizens for the better.
civilization
A state of human society that is very developed and organized.
Example
the technology of modern civilization
clerk
A person whose job is to serve customers in a shop.
Example
The clerk at the counter gave me too little change.
cliff
A high area of rock with a very steep side, often at the edge of the sea or ocean.
Example
the cliff edge/top
clinic
A building or part of a hospital where people can go for special medical treatment or advice.
Example
Your local family planning clinic can give you advice about birth control.
clip
A short part of a film that is shown separately.
Example
Here is a clip from her latest movie.
coincidence
The fact of two things happening at the same time by chance, in a surprising way.
Example
a strange/an extraordinary/a remarkable coincidence
collapse
A sudden failure of something, such as an institution, a business or a course of action.
Example
the collapse of the Soviet Union
collector
A person who collects things, either as a hobby or as a job.
Example
a stamp collector
colony
A country or an area that is governed by people from another, more powerful, country.
Example
former British colonies
combination
Two or more things joined or mixed together to form a single unit.
Example
The tragedy was due to a combination of factors.
comic
A magazine, usually for children, that tells stories through pictures.
Example
a comic book superhero
command
An order given to a person or an animal.
Example
Begin when I give the command.
commander
A person who is in charge of something, especially an officer in charge of a particular group of soldiers or a military operation.
Example
military/allied/field/flight commanders
commission
An official group of people who have been given responsibility to control something, or to find out about something, usually for the government.
Example
The commission is expected to report its findings next month.
commitment
A promise to do something or to behave in a particular way; a promise to support somebody/something; the fact of committing yourself.
Example
I'm not ready to make a long-term commitment.
committee
A group of people who are chosen, usually by a larger group, to make decisions or to deal with a particular subject.
Example
an executive/advisory/organizing committee
complex
A group of buildings of a similar type together in one place.
Example
a sports/leisure/shopping complex
component
One of several parts of which something is made.
Example
the different organizations involved in the design of the various components
composer
A person who writes music, especially classical music.
Example
Verdi was a prolific composer of operas.
concept
An idea or a principle that is connected with something abstract.
Example
the concept of social class
concern
A feeling of worry, especially one that is shared by many people.
Example
Villagers expressed concern about the level of traffic.
concrete
Building material that is made by mixing together cement, sand, small stones and water.
Example
a slab of concrete
conduct
A person’s behaviour in a particular place or in a particular situation.
Example
The sport has a strict code of conduct.
conflict
A situation in which people, groups or countries disagree strongly or are involved in a serious argument.
Example
The violence was the result of political conflicts.
conservation
The protection of the natural environment.
Example
to be interested in wildlife conservation
conservative
A conservative person.
Example
social/religious conservatives
consideration
The act of thinking carefully about something.
Example
An employer is legally bound to give due consideration to the request.
conspiracy
A secret plan by a group of people to do something harmful or illegal.
Example
a conspiracy to overthrow the government
constant
Happening all the time or repeatedly.
Example
There were constant interruptions.
construction
The process or method of building or making something, especially roads, buildings, bridges, etc.
Example
Construction began this year and will take approximately 18 months.
consultant
A person who knows a lot about a particular subject and is employed to give advice about it to other people.
Example
a technology/design consultant
consumption
The act of using energy, food or materials; the amount used.
Example
the production of fuel for domestic consumption (= to be used in the country where it is produced)
contest
A competition in which people try to win something.
Example
to hold a singing/talent contest
contestant
A person who takes part in a contest or competition.
Example
The contestants lined up for the start of the race.
contract
An official written agreement.
Example
All employees have a written contract of employment.
contribution
A gift or payment that is made to a person or an organization in order to help pay for something.
Example
All contributions will be gratefully received.
controversy
Public discussion and argument about something that many people strongly disagree about, think is bad, or are shocked by.
Example
to arouse/cause controversy
convenience
The quality of being useful, easy or suitable for somebody.
Example
We have provided seats for the convenience of our customers.
convert
A person who has changed their religion, beliefs, or opinions, especially recently.
Example
She is a recent convert to vegetarianism.
corporation
A large business company.
Example
multinational corporations
corridor
A long narrow passage in a building, with doors that open into rooms on either side.
Example
His room is along the corridor.
council
A group of people who are elected to govern an area such as a city or county.
Example
a town council
counter
A long flat surface over which goods are sold or business is done in a shop, bank, etc.
Example
behind the counter, I asked the woman behind the counter if they had any postcards.
county
One of a number of areas that some countries are divided into, each with its own local government.
Example
rural counties west of the Mississippi
courage
The ability to do something dangerous, or to face pain or opposition, without showing fear.
Example
He showed great courage and determination.
coverage
The reporting of news and sport in the media.
Example
media/newspaper/press coverage
cowboy
(In the western US and Canada) a man, typically one on horseback, who herds and tends cattle.
Example
The movie was about cowboys in the Wild West.
crack
A line on the surface of something where it has broken but not split into separate parts.
Example
This cup has a crack in it.
crash
An accident in which a vehicle hits something, for example another vehicle, usually causing damage and often injuring or killing the passengers.
Example
a car/plane crash
creation
The act or process of making something that is new, or of causing something to exist that did not exist before.
Example
Job creation needs to be the top priority.
creativity
The use of skill and imagination to produce something new or to produce art.
Example
Creativity and originality are more important than technical skill.
creature
A living thing, real or imaginary, that can move around, such as an animal.
Example
respect for all living creatures
crisis
A time of great danger, difficulty or doubt when problems must be solved or important decisions must be made.
Example
an economic/a financial crisis
criterion
A standard or principle by which something is judged, or with the help of which a decision is made.
Example
The main criterion is value for money.
critic
A person who expresses opinions about the good and bad qualities of books, music, etc.
Example
a film/an art/a music critic
criticism
The act of expressing disapproval of somebody/something and opinions about their faults or bad qualities; a statement showing this disapproval.
Example
to draw/face/receive criticism
crop
A plant that is grown in large quantities, especially as food.
Example
Sugar is an important crop on the island.
cruise
A journey by sea, visiting different places, especially as a holiday.
Example
I'd love to go on a round-the-world cruise.
cue
An action or event that is a signal for somebody to do something.
Example
Jon's arrival was a cue for more champagne.
cure
A medicine or medical treatment that cures an illness.
Example
the search for a cure for cancer
current
The movement of water in the sea or a river; the movement of air in a particular direction.
Example
with the current, It's easier to go with the current.
curriculum
The subjects that are included in a course of study or taught in a school, college, etc.
Example
The school curriculum should be as broad as possible.
curve
A line or surface that bends gradually; a smooth bend.
Example
He admired the delicate curve of her ear.
dairy
Milk, cheese and other milk products.
Example
The doctor told me to eat less red meat and dairy.
dare
A challenge that asks someone to do something risky or frightening to prove their courage.
Example
He climbed the tree on a dare from his friends.
darkness
The state of being dark, without any light.
Example
After a few minutes our eyes got used to the darkness.
database
An organized set of data that is stored in a computer and can be looked at and used in various ways.
Example
The database is updated monthly.
deadline
A point in time by which something must be done.
Example
I prefer to work to a deadline.
dealer
A person whose business is buying and selling a particular product.
Example
an art/antique dealer
debate
A formal discussion of an issue at a public meeting or in a parliament. In a debate two or more speakers express opposite views and then there is often a vote on the issue.
Example
the first ever televised presidential debate
debt
A sum of money that somebody owes.
Example
to pay/repay a debt
decline
A continuous decrease in the number, value, quality, etc. of something.
Example
There has been a 5 per cent decline in student numbers.
decoration
A thing that makes something look more attractive on special occasions.
Example
Christmas/festive decorations
decrease
The process of reducing something; the amount that something is reduced by.
Example
Sales for May show a decrease compared with the same month last year.
defeat
Failure to win or to be successful.
Example
The party faces defeat in the election.
defender
A player who must stop the other team from scoring in games such as football (soccer), hockey, etc.
Example
a passionate defender of human rights
delay
A period of time when somebody/something has to wait because of a problem that makes something slow or late.
Example
Commuters will face long delays on the roads today.
delivery
The act of taking goods, letters, etc. to the people they have been sent to.
Example
Allow 28 days for delivery.
demand
A very strong request for something; something that somebody needs.
Example
a demand for higher pay
democracy
A system of government in which the people of a country can vote to elect their representatives.
Example
parliamentary democracy
demonstration
A public meeting or a march (= an organized walk by many people) at which people show that they are protesting against or supporting somebody/something.
Example
to take part in/go on a demonstration
deposit
A sum of money that is given as the first part of a larger payment.
Example
They normally ask you to pay $100 (as a) deposit.
depression
A medical condition in which a person feels very sad, anxious and without hope and often has physical symptoms such as being unable to sleep, etc.
Example
She was diagnosed as having clinical depression.
depth
The distance from the top or surface to the bottom of something; a particular distance down from the surface of something.
Example
What's the depth of the water here?
desire
A strong wish to have or do something.
Example
He now had enough money to satisfy all his desires.
destruction
The act of destroying something; the process of being destroyed.
Example
the destruction of the rainforests
determination
The quality that makes you continue trying to do something even when this is difficult.
Example
fierce/grim/dogged determination
dig
An excavation, especially an organized archaeological one; or an unkind or critical remark.
Example
She volunteered on an archaeological dig last summer.
dime
A ten-cent coin (US and Canada).
Example
Can you lend me a dime for the parking meter?
disagreement
A situation where people have different opinions about something and often argue.
Example
Disagreement arose about exactly how to plan the show.
discipline
The practice of training people to obey rules and orders and punishing them if they do not; the controlled behaviour or situation that is the result of this training.
Example
The school has a reputation for high standards of discipline.
disk
A thin flat round object.
Example
Red blood cells are roughly the shape of a disk.
disorder
A condition or illness that causes problems with the way part of the body or brain works.
Example
a blood/bowel disorder
display
An arrangement of things in a public place to inform or entertain people or advertise something for sale.
Example
a beautiful floral display
distribution
The way that something is spread or exists over a particular area or among a particular group of people.
Example
They studied the geographical distribution of the disease.
district
An area of a country or town, especially one that has particular features.
Example
the City of London’s financial district
dive
A jump into deep water with your head first and your arms in front of you.
Example
a spectacular high dive (= from high above the water)
diversity
A range of many people or things that are very different from each other.
Example
the biological diversity of the rainforests
division
The process or result of dividing into separate parts; the process or result of dividing something or sharing it out.
Example
The organism begins as a single cell and grows by cell division.
divorce
The legal ending of a marriage.
Example
The marriage ended in divorce in 1996.
donation
Something that is given to a person or an organization such as a charity, in order to help them; the act of giving something in this way.
Example
a generous/large/small donation
downtown
The centre of a city, especially its main business area.
Example
a hotel in the heart of downtown
dozen
A group of twelve of the same thing.
Example
Give me a dozen, please.
draft
A rough written version of something that is not yet in its final form.
Example
This is only the first draft of my speech.
drag
A person or thing that is annoying or boring; or a forceful pull on something.
Example
Cleaning the house every weekend is such a drag.
drought
A long period of time when there is little or no rain.
Example
Farmers are facing ruin after two years of severe drought.
dump
A place where rubbish is left, or an unattractive and unpleasant place to live or visit.
Example
They drove the broken furniture out to the dump.
duration
The length of time that something lasts or continues.
Example
The school was used as a hospital for the duration of the war.
economics
The study of how a society organizes its money, trade and industry.
Example
He studied politics and economics at Yale.
economist
A person who studies or writes about economics.
Example
the World Bank's chief economist
edition
The form in which a book, newspaper, etc. is published.
Example
a paperback/hardback edition
elbow
The joint between the upper and lower parts of the arm where it bends in the middle.
Example
She jabbed him with her elbow.
electronics
The branch of science and technology that studies electric currents in electronic equipment.
Example
the electronics industry
emission
The production or sending out of light, heat, gas, etc.
Example
the emission of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere
emphasis
Special importance that is given to something.
Example
Since the elections there has been a greater emphasis on education.
empire
A group of countries or states that are controlled by one leader or government.
Example
These invasions almost led to the collapse of the Roman Empire.
encounter
A meeting, especially one that is sudden, unexpected or violent.
Example
a chance encounter
enthusiasm
A strong feeling of excitement and interest in something and a desire to become involved in it.
Example
Her voice was full of enthusiasm.
entrepreneur
A person who makes money by starting or running businesses, especially when this involves taking financial risks.
Example
A creative entrepreneur, he was continually dreaming up new projects.
equal
A person or thing of the same quality or with the same status, rights, etc. as another.
Example
She treats the people who work for her as her equals.
equivalent
A thing, amount, word, etc. that is equal in value, meaning or purpose to something else.
Example
Send €20 or the equivalent in your own currency.
era
A period of time, usually in history, that is different from other periods because of particular characteristics or events.
Example
the Victorian/modern/post-war era
estate
An area of land with a lot of houses or factories of the same type on it.
Example
on an estate, She lives in a tower block on an estate in London.
estimate
A judgement that you make without having the exact details or figures about the size, amount, cost, etc. of something.
Example
to provide/obtain an estimate
evil
A force that causes bad things to happen; morally bad behaviour.
Example
the eternal struggle between good and evil
exception
A person or thing that is not included in a general statement.
Example
Most of the buildings in the town are modern, but the church is an exception.
excuse
A reason, either true or invented, that you give to explain or defend your behaviour.
Example
Late again! What's your excuse this time?
executive
A person who has an important job as a manager of a company or an organization.
Example
company/corporate/business/industry executives
exhibit
An object or a collection of objects put in a public place, for example a museum, so that people can see it.
Example
The museum contains some interesting exhibits on Spanish rural life.
existence
The state or fact of being real or living or of being present.
Example
I was unaware of his existence until today.
exit
A way out of a public building or vehicle.
Example
Where's the exit?
expansion
An act of increasing or making something increase in size, amount or importance.
Example
a period of rapid economic expansion
expectation
A belief that something will happen because it is likely.
Example
We are confident in our expectation of a full recovery.
expense
The money that you spend on something.
Example
The garden was transformed at great expense.
expertise
Expert knowledge or skill in a particular subject, activity or job.
Example
professional/scientific/technical, etc. expertise
exploit
A brave, exciting, or unusual deed, especially one that becomes well known.
Example
Stories of his sailing exploits have been told for years.
exploration
The act of travelling through a place in order to find out about it or look for something in it.
Example
Budgets for space exploration have been cut back.
exposure
The state of being in a place or situation where there is no protection from something harmful or unpleasant.
Example
prolonged exposure to harmful radiation
extension
The act of increasing the area of activity, group of people, etc. that is affected by something.
Example
the extension of new technology into developing countries
extent
How large, important, serious, etc. something is.
Example
It is difficult to assess the full extent of the damage.
extract
A short passage from a book, piece of music, etc. that gives you an idea of what the whole thing is like.
Example
The following extract is taken from her new novel.
fabric
Material made by weaving wool, cotton, silk, etc., used for making clothes, curtains, etc. and for covering furniture.
Example
They sell a wide variety of printed cotton fabric.
facility
Buildings, services, equipment, etc. that are provided for a particular purpose.
Example
leisure/sports facilities
failure
Lack of success in doing or achieving something.
Example
The success or failure of the plan depends on you.
faith
Trust in somebody’s ability or knowledge; trust that somebody/something will do what has been promised.
Example
If the company can retain its customers' faith, it could become the market leader.
fake
Not what somebody claims it is; appearing to be something it is not.
Example
There were a few stalls selling fake designer clothing.
fame
The state of being known and talked about by many people.
Example
to achieve/win instant fame
fantasy
A pleasant situation that you imagine but that is unlikely to happen.
Example
He spoke of his childhood fantasies about becoming a famous football player.
fare
The money that you pay to travel by bus, plane, taxi, etc.
Example
bus/taxi fares
fee
An amount of money that you pay for professional advice or services.
Example
Employees are reimbursed for any legal fees incurred when they relocate.
fever
A medical condition in which a person has a temperature that is higher than normal.
Example
He has a high fever.
finance
Money used to run a business, an activity or a project.
Example
The project will only go ahead if they can raise the necessary finance.
finding
Information that is discovered as the result of research into something.
Example
Our research findings indicate that pregnant women benefit from this treatment.
firefighter
A person whose job is to put out fires.
Example
Firefighters were called to a house in Summertown.
firm
A business or company.
Example
a law/consulting/research firm
flame
A hot bright stream of burning gas that comes from something that is on fire.
Example
the tiny yellow flame of a match
flash
A sudden bright light that shines for a moment and then disappears.
Example
a flash of lightning
flavor
The distinctive taste of a food or drink. An indication of the essential character of something.
Example
This ice cream has a strawberry flavor.
float
A vehicle decorated and used in a parade; or a small object used to keep something afloat in water.
Example
The carnival float was covered in flowers and lights.
fold
A part of something, especially cloth, that is folded or hangs as if it had been folded.
Example
the folds of her dress
forecast
A statement about what will happen in the future, based on information that is available now.
Example
The sales forecasts are encouraging.
format
The general arrangement, plan, design, etc. of something.
Example
The format of the new quiz show has proved popular.
formation
The action of forming something; the process of being formed.
Example
the formation of a new government
forum
An event or medium where people can exchange opinions and ideas on a particular issue; a meeting organized for this purpose.
Example
to hold an international forum on drug abuse
fossil
The parts of a dead animal or a plant that have become hard and turned into rock.
Example
fossils over two million years old
foundation
A principle, an idea or a fact that something is based on and that it grows from.
Example
Respect and friendship provide a solid foundation for marriage.
founder
A person who starts an organization, institution, etc. or causes something to be built.
Example
the founder and president of the company
fraction
A small part or amount of something.
Example
Only a small fraction of a bank's total deposits will be withdrawn at any one time.
fragment
A small part of something that has broken off or comes from something larger.
Example
Police found fragments of glass near the scene.
framework
The parts of a building or an object that support its weight and give it shape.
Example
built on a wooden framework
fraud
The crime of cheating somebody in order to get money or goods illegally.
Example
She was charged with credit card fraud.
freedom
The power or right to do or say what you want without anyone stopping you.
Example
to defend/protect academic freedom
frequency
The rate at which something happens or is repeated.
Example
Fatal road accidents have decreased in frequency over recent years.
fund
An amount of money that has been saved or has been made available for a particular purpose.
Example
a disaster relief fund
funding
Money for a particular purpose; the act of providing money for such a purpose.
Example
federal/state funding
gain
An increase in the amount of something, especially in wealth or weight.
Example
The opposition made unexpected gains in the last election.
gaming
Playing computer games.
Example
online/mobile/console gaming
gang
An organized group of criminals.
Example
criminal gangs
gender
The fact of being male or female, especially when considered with reference to social and cultural differences, rather than differences in biology; members of a particular gender as a group.
Example
issues of class, race and gender
gene
A unit inside a cell that controls a particular quality in a living thing that has been passed on from its parents.
Example
a dominant/recessive gene
genius
Unusually great intelligence, skill or artistic ability.
Example
the genius of Shakespeare
genre
A particular type or style of literature, art, film or music that you can recognize because of its special features.
Example
literary/musical genres
gesture
A movement that you make with your hands, your head or your face to show a particular meaning.
Example
He made a rude gesture at the driver of the other car.
gig
A performance by musicians playing popular music or jazz in front of an audience; a similar performance by a comedian.
Example
They're doing a gig in Boston tonight.
globalization
The process by which businesses, ideas, and cultures spread around the world and become connected.
Example
Globalization has made it easier for companies to operate in many countries.
globe
The world (used especially to emphasize its size).
Example
tourists from every corner of the globe
goodness
The quality of being good.
Example
the essential goodness of human nature
governor
A person who is the official head of a country or region that is governed by another country.
Example
the former governor of the colony
grand
Impressive and large or important.
Example
It's not a very grand house.
grant
A sum of money that is given by the government or by another organization to be used for a particular purpose.
Example
government/federal grants
graphics
Designs, drawings or pictures that are used especially in the production of books, magazines, websites, etc.
Example
Text and graphics are prepared separately and then combined.
greenhouse
A building with glass walls and roof used for growing plants that need protection from cold weather.
Example
They grow tomatoes in the greenhouse all year round.
guarantee
A formal promise that you will do something or that something will happen.
Example
They are demanding certain guarantees before they sign the treaty.
guideline
A set of rules or instructions that are given by an official organization telling you how to do something, especially something difficult.
Example
The government has drawn up guidelines for schools during the pandemic.
habitat
The place where a particular type of animal or plant is normally found.
Example
The panda's natural habitat is the bamboo forest.
handle
The part of a door, window, etc. that you use to open it.
Example
She turned the handle and opened the door.
harbor
A place on the coast where vessels may find shelter, especially one protected from rough water by piers, jetties, and other artificial structures.
Example
The ships were safe in the harbor.
harm
Damage or injury that is caused by a person or an event.
Example
He would never frighten anyone or cause them any harm.
healthcare
The service of providing medical care.
Example
the costs of healthcare for the elderly
heaven
The place believed to be the home of God where good people go when they die, sometimes imagined to be in the sky.
Example
the kingdom of heaven
heel
The back part of the foot below the ankle.
Example
Apply the cream to dry, cracked heels before bed.
hell
The place believed to be the home of devils and where bad people go after death.
Example
He was terrified of going to hell when he died.
helmet
A type of hard hat that protects the head, worn, for example, by a police officer, a soldier or a person riding a bike or motorbike or playing some sports.
Example
Police in riot helmets lined the streets.
herb
A plant whose leaves, flowers or seeds are used to add taste to food, in medicines or for their pleasant smell. parsley, mint and oregano are all herbs.
Example
a herb garden
highway
A main road for travelling long distances, especially one connecting and going through cities and towns.
Example
Plans were being made for the construction of a new interstate highway system.
hip
The area at either side of the body between the top of the leg and the middle part of the body; the joint at the top of the leg that connects it with the top part of the body.
Example
She stood with her hands on her hips.
historian
A person who studies or writes about history; an expert in history.
Example
No serious historian today accepts this theory.
honesty
The quality of being honest.
Example
She answered all my questions with her usual honesty.
honey
A sweet, sticky yellowish-brown fluid made by bees and other insects from nectar collected from flowers. An affectionate term of address.
Example
Bees produce honey.
honor
High respect; great esteem. Adherence to what is right or to a conventional standard of conduct. A privilege.
Example
He was treated as a guest of honor.
hook
A curved piece of metal, plastic or wire for hanging things on, catching fish with, etc.
Example
a picture/curtain/coat hook
household
All the people living together in a house or flat.
Example
Most households now own at least one car.
housing
Houses, flats, etc. that people live in, especially when referring to their type, price or condition.
Example
rental/student housing
humor
The quality of being amusing or comic, especially as expressed in literature or speech. A mood or state of mind.
Example
He has a great sense of humor.
hunger
The state of not having enough food to eat, especially when this causes illness or death.
Example
Around fifty people die of hunger every day in the camp.
hunting
Going after and killing wild animals as a sport or for food.
Example
He goes hunting every weekend.
hypothesis
An idea or explanation of something that is based on a few known facts but that has not yet been proved to be true or correct.
Example
to formulate/confirm a hypothesis
icon
A small symbol on a computer or smartphone screen that represents a program or a file.
Example
Click on the printer icon with the mouse.
ID
An official way of showing who you are, for example a document with your name, date of birth and often a photograph on it (the abbreviation for ‘identity’ or ‘identification’).
Example
You must carry ID at all times.
illusion
A false idea or belief, especially about somebody or about a situation.
Example
She's under the illusion that (= believes wrongly that) she'll get the job.
imagination
The ability to create pictures in your mind; the part of your mind that does this.
Example
a vivid/fertile imagination
immigration
The process of coming to live permanently in a different country from the one you were born in; the number of people who do this.
Example
legal/illegal immigration
implement
A tool or piece of equipment used for a particular purpose, especially in farming or gardening.
Example
The garden shed was full of rusty implements.
implication
A possible effect or result of an action or a decision.
Example
They failed to consider the wider implications of their actions.
incentive
Something that encourages you to do something.
Example
There is no incentive for people to save fuel.
inch
A unit for measuring length or height, equal to 2.54 centimetres. There are 12 inches in a foot.
Example
She's a few inches taller than me.
incident
Something that happens, especially something unusual or unpleasant.
Example
His bad behaviour was just an isolated incident.
income
The money that a person, a region, a country, etc. earns from work, from investing money, from business, etc.
Example
Average household income fell slightly.
independence
Freedom from political control by other countries.
Example
Cuba gained independence from Spain in 1898.
index
A list of names or topics that are referred to in a book, etc., usually arranged at the end of a book in alphabetical order or listed in a separate file or book.
Example
Look it up in the index.
indication
A remark or sign that shows that something is happening or what somebody is thinking or feeling.
Example
They gave no indication of how the work should be done.
infection
The act or process of causing or getting a disease.
Example
to cause/prevent infection
inflation
A general rise in the prices of services and goods in a particular country, resulting in a fall in the value of money; the rate at which this happens.
Example
the fight against rising inflation
info
Information.
Example
For more info, click here.
infrastructure
The basic physical systems of a country or organization, such as roads, bridges, and power supplies.
Example
The country needs to invest in modern infrastructure.
inhabitant
A person or an animal that lives in a particular place.
Example
the oldest inhabitant of the village
initiative
A new plan for dealing with a particular problem or for achieving a particular purpose.
Example
a United Nations peace initiative
ink
Coloured liquid for writing, drawing and printing.
Example
in ink, written in ink
innovation
The introduction of new things, ideas or ways of doing something.
Example
an age of technological innovation
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.
inquiry
An official process to find out the cause of something or to find out information about something.
Example
a murder inquiry
insert
Something that is added or put inside something else, especially a leaflet placed inside a magazine or newspaper.
Example
A free recipe insert came with this week’s magazine.
insight
An understanding of what something is like.
Example
There are many valuable insights in her book.
installation
The act of fixing equipment or furniture in position so that it can be used.
Example
installation costs
instance
A particular example or case of something.
Example
The report highlights a number of instances of injustice.
institute
An organization that has a particular purpose, especially one that is connected with education or a particular profession; the building used by this organization.
Example
The report was compiled by Germany's five leading economic research institutes.
institution
A large important organization that has a particular purpose, for example a university or bank.
Example
The deal is backed by one of the country's largest financial institutions.
insurance
An arrangement with a company in which you pay them regular amounts of money and they agree to pay the costs, for example, if you die or are ill, or if you lose or damage something.
Example
health/medical insurance
interaction
The act of communicating with somebody, especially while you work, play or spend time with them.
Example
the interaction between performers and their audience
interpretation
The particular way in which something is understood or explained.
Example
Her evidence suggests a different interpretation of the events.
interval
A period of time between two events.
Example
The interval between major earthquakes might be 200 years.
investigation
An official examination of the facts about a situation, crime, etc.
Example
a criminal/murder/police investigation
investment
The act of investing money in something.
Example
foreign/private investment
investor
A person or an organization that invests money in something.
Example
small investors (= private people)
jail
A prison.
Example
She spent a year in jail.
jet
A plane driven by jet engines.
Example
a jet aircraft/fighter/airliner
joint
A place where two bones are joined together in the body in a way that enables them to bend and move.
Example
inflammation of the knee joint
journalism
The work of collecting and writing news stories for newspapers, magazines, radio, television or online news sites; the news stories that are written.
Example
I'd like a career in journalism.
joy
A feeling of great happiness.
Example
Her books have brought joy to millions.
judgment
The ability to make considered decisions or come to sensible conclusions. An opinion or conclusion. A decision of a court or judge.
Example
Use your best judgment in this situation.
jury
A group of members of the public who listen to the facts of a case in a court and decide whether or not somebody is guilty of a crime, or whether a claim has been proved.
Example
members of the jury
justice
The fair treatment of people.
Example
She spent her life fighting for social justice and equality for women.
kindergarten
A school or class that prepares children for first grade. A child in kindergarten is typically 5 or 6 years old.
Example
My youngest child started kindergarten this year.
kit
A set of tools or equipment that you use for a particular purpose.
Example
a first-aid kit
labor
Work, especially hard physical work. Workers, especially manual workers, considered collectively. The process of childbirth.
Example
Building the pyramids required immense labor.
ladder
A piece of equipment for climbing up and down a wall, the side of a building, etc., consisting of two lengths of wood or metal that are joined together by steps or rungs.
Example
to climb up/fall off a ladder
landing
An act of bringing an aircraft or a spacecraft down to the ground after a journey.
Example
a perfect/smooth/safe landing
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
lane
A narrow road in the country.
Example
winding country lanes
latest
The most recent or the newest thing or piece of news.
Example
This is the latest in robot technology.
launch
The action of launching something.
Example
a missile/rocket launch
leadership
The state or position of being a leader.
Example
a leadership role/position
league
A group of sports teams who all play each other to earn points and find which team is best.
Example
Castleford have led the league for most of the season.
legend
A story from ancient times about people and events, that may or may not be true; this type of story.
Example
The film is based on the legend of Robin Hood.
lens
A curved piece of glass or plastic that makes things look larger, smaller or clearer when you look through it.
Example
a pair of glasses with tinted lenses
lighting
The arrangement or type of light in a place.
Example
electric/natural lighting
limitation
The act or process of limiting or controlling somebody/something.
Example
They would resist any limitation of their powers.
load
Something that is being carried (usually in large amounts) by a person, vehicle, etc.
Example
The trucks waited at the warehouse to pick up their loads.
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)
lord
(in the UK) a man of high rank in the nobility (= people of high social class), or somebody who has been given the title ‘lord’ as an honour.
Example
She's married to a lord.
lottery
A way of raising money for a government, charity, etc. by selling tickets that have different numbers on them that people have chosen. Numbers are then chosen by chance and the people who have those numbers on their tickets win prizes.
Example
the national/state lottery
lung
Either of the two organs in the chest that you use for breathing.
Example
Her father died of lung cancer.
majority
The largest part of a group of people or things.
Example
The majority of people interviewed prefer TV to radio.
making
The act or process of making or producing something.
Example
strategic decision-making
manufacture
The making of goods in large quantities, especially by machine in a factory.
Example
The manufacture of electric cars has expanded rapidly.
manufacturing
The business or industry of producing goods in large quantities in factories, etc.
Example
Many jobs in manufacturing were lost during the recession.
marathon
A long running race of about 42 kilometres or 26 miles.
Example
the London marathon
margin
The empty space at the side of a written or printed page.
Example
the left-hand/right-hand margin
marker
An object or a sign that shows the position of something.
Example
a boundary marker
mass
A large amount of a substance that does not have a definite shape or form.
Example
She saw a large dark mass in the water.
master
A man who has people working for him, often as servants in his home.
Example
They lived in fear of their master.
mate
A friend.
Example
They've been best mates since school.
maximum
The greatest amount, size, speed, etc. that is possible, recorded or allowed.
Example
a maximum of 30 children in a class
mayor
The head of the government of a town or city, etc., elected by the public.
Example
the Mayor of New York
measurement
The act or the process of finding the size, quantity or degree of something.
Example
the metric system of measurement
mechanic
A person whose job is repairing machines, especially the engines of vehicles.
Example
a car/motor mechanic
mechanism
A set of moving parts in a machine that performs a task.
Example
a delicate watch mechanism
medal
A flat piece of metal, usually like a coin in shape, that is given to the winner of a competition or to somebody who has been brave, for example in war.
Example
to win a gold medal in the Olympics
medication
A drug or another form of medicine that you take to prevent or to treat an illness; treatment involving drugs.
Example
Are you currently taking any medication?
medium
A way of communicating information, etc. to people.
Example
the medium of radio/television
melt
A toasted sandwich filled with melted cheese, often with other ingredients; or the act of melting.
Example
I ordered a tuna melt for lunch.
membership
The state of being a member of a group, a club, an organization, etc.
Example
(British English), Who is eligible to apply for membership of the association?
military
Soldiers; the armed forces.
Example
The military was/were called in to deal with the riot.
miner
A person who works in a mine taking out coal, gold, diamonds, etc.
Example
Rescuers are trying to save miners trapped underground after a gas explosion.
mineral
A substance that is naturally present in the earth and is not formed from animal or vegetable matter, for example gold and salt. Some minerals are also present in food and drink and in the human body and are essential for good health.
Example
a country rich in mineral resources
minimum
The smallest or lowest amount that is possible, required or recorded.
Example
The class needs a minimum of six students to continue.
minister
A senior member of the government who is in charge of a government department or a branch of one.
Example
the Minister of Education
minority
The smaller part of a group; less than half of the people or things in a large group.
Example
Only a small minority of students is/are interested in politics these days.
mission
An important task or job that you have been given to do.
Example
Their mission was to deliver the supplies safely to the village.
mode
A particular way of doing something; a particular type of something.
Example
a mode of communication
monitor
A screen that shows information from a computer; a television screen used to show particular kinds of information.
Example
The details of today's flights are displayed on the monitor.
monster
(in stories) an imaginary creature that is very large, ugly and frightening.
Example
a monster with three heads
monument
A building, column, statue, etc. built to remind people of a famous person or event.
Example
A monument to him was erected in St Paul's Cathedral.
mosque
A building where Muslims go to worship (= praise God).
Example
I used to pray at the local mosque with my father and grandfather.
mosquito
A slender long-legged fly with aquatic larvae. The bite of the bloodsucking female can transmit diseases like malaria and yellow fever.
Example
A mosquito bite can be very itchy.
motion
The act or process of moving or the way something moves.
Example
What was Newton's first law of motion?
motivation
The reason why somebody does something or behaves in a particular way.
Example
What is the motivation behind this sudden change?
mount
A horse or other animal used for riding; or a high hill or mountain (often used in names).
Example
She climbed onto her mount and rode out across the field.
myth
A story from ancient times, especially one that was told to explain natural events or to describe the early history of a people; this type of story.
Example
ancient Greek myths
neat
Tidy and in order; carefully done or arranged.
Example
She kept her desk extremely neat.
necessity
The fact that something must happen or be done; the need for something.
Example
We recognize the necessity for a written agreement.
negotiation
Formal discussion between people who are trying to reach an agreement.
Example
peace/trade/contract negotiations
nickel
A silvery-white metallic element. A five-cent coin (US and Canada).
Example
Nickel is used in alloys and plating.
nightmare
A dream that is very frightening or unpleasant.
Example
He still has nightmares about the accident.
norm
A situation or a pattern of behaviour that is usual or expected.
Example
The new design is a departure from the norm.
notebook
A small book of plain paper for writing notes in.
Example
The police officer wrote the details down in his notebook.
notion
An idea, a belief or an understanding of something.
Example
a political system based on the notions of equality and liberty
novelist
A person who writes novels.
Example
a romantic/historical novelist
nursing
The job or skill of caring for people who are sick or injured.
Example
a career in nursing
obesity
The quality or fact of being very fat, in a way that is not healthy.
Example
Obesity can increase the risk of heart disease.
objective
Something that you are trying to achieve.
Example
the primary/principal/key objective
obligation
The state of being forced to do something because it is your duty, or because of a law, etc.
Example
You are under no obligation to buy anything.
observation
The act of watching somebody/something carefully for a period of time, especially to learn something.
Example
Most information was collected by direct observation of the animals' behaviour.
observer
A person who watches somebody/something.
Example
According to observers, the plane exploded shortly after take-off.
occupation
A job or profession.
Example
Please state your name, age and occupation below.
offender
A person who commits a crime.
Example
a persistent/serious/violent, etc. offender
official
A person who is in a position of authority in a large organization.
Example
She is the government official in charge of the project.
opera
A dramatic work in which all or most of the words are sung to music; works of this type as an art form or entertainment.
Example
Puccini’s operas
operator
A person who operates equipment or a machine.
Example
a computer/machine operator
opponent
A person that you are playing or fighting against in a game, competition, argument, etc.
Example
a political opponent
opposition
The act of strongly disagreeing with somebody/something, especially with the aim of preventing something from happening.
Example
Opposition came primarily from students.
orchestra
A large group of people who play various musical instruments together, led by a conductor.
Example
She plays the flute in the school orchestra.
organ
A part of the body that has a particular purpose, such as the heart or the brain; part of a plant with a particular purpose.
Example
the internal organs
outcome
The result or effect of an action or event.
Example
The likely outcome is a compromise.
outfit
A set of clothes that you wear together, especially for a particular occasion or purpose.
Example
She was wearing an expensive new outfit.
outline
A description of the main facts or points involved in something.
Example
This is a brief outline of the events.
output
The amount of something that a person, a machine or an organization produces.
Example
Manufacturing output has increased by 8 per cent.
ownership
The fact of owning something.
Example
a growth in home ownership
oxygen
A chemical element. Oxygen is a gas that is present in air and water and is necessary for people, animals and plants to live.
Example
The patient didn't seem to be getting enough oxygen.
pace
The speed at which somebody/something walks, runs or moves.
Example
at a… pace, to set off at a steady/gentle/leisurely pace
packet
A small container made of paper or card in which goods are packed for selling.
Example
a packet of biscuits/cigarettes/crisps
palm
A straight tree with a mass of long leaves at the top, growing in tropical countries. There are several types of palm tree, some of which produce fruit.
Example
a date palm
panel
A square or rectangular piece of wood, glass or metal that forms part of a larger surface such as a door or wall.
Example
One of the glass panels in the front door was cracked.
panic
A sudden feeling of great fear that cannot be controlled and prevents you from thinking clearly.
Example
a moment of panic
parallel
A person, a situation, an event, etc. that is very similar to another, especially one in a different place or time.
Example
These ideas have parallels in Freud's thought too.
parliament
The group of people who are elected to make and change the laws of a country.
Example
The German parliament is called the ‘Bundestag’.
participant
A person who is taking part in an activity or event.
Example
The average age of study participants was 48 years.
participation
The act of taking part in an activity or event.
Example
a show with lots of audience participation
partnership
The state of being a partner in business.
Example
to be in/to go into partnership
passage
A long narrow area with walls on either side that connects one room or place with another.
Example
A dark narrow passage led to the main hall.
password
A series of letters, numbers, etc. that you must type into a computer or computer system in order to be able to use it.
Example
Enter a username and password to get into the system.
patience
The ability to stay calm and accept a delay or something annoying without complaining.
Example
She has little patience with (= will not accept or consider) such views.
pause
A period of time during which somebody stops talking or stops what they are doing.
Example
There was a long pause before she answered.
peer
A person who is the same age or who has the same social status as you.
Example
She enjoys the respect of her peers.
penalty
A punishment for breaking a law, rule or contract.
Example
to impose a penalty
pension
A regular payment that someone receives from the government or a former employer after they stop working, usually in retirement.
Example
My grandfather lives on a small pension.
perception
An idea, a belief or an image you have as a result of how you see or understand something.
Example
a campaign to change public perception of the police
permit
An official document that gives somebody the right to do something, especially for a limited period of time.
Example
a parking/building permit
perspective
A particular attitude towards something; a way of thinking about something.
Example
a global perspective
pharmacy
A store where medicinal drugs are dispensed and sold; a drugstore. The science or practice of the preparation and dispensing of medicinal drugs.
Example
I need to go to the pharmacy to pick up my prescription.
phase
A stage in a process of change or development.
Example
during the initial/final phase
phenomenon
A fact or an event in nature or society, especially one that is not fully understood.
Example
cultural/natural phenomena
philosophy
The study of the nature and meaning of the universe and of human life.
Example
the philosophy of science
pile
A number of things that have been placed on top of each other.
Example
a pile of clothes/paper
pill
A small flat round piece of medicine that you swallow whole, without biting it.
Example
a vitamin pill
pitch
An area of ground specially prepared and marked for playing a sports game.
Example
a football pitch
pity
Used to show that you are disappointed about something.
Example
a pity (that…), It's a pity that you can't stay longer.
placement
The act of finding somebody a suitable job or place to live.
Example
a job placement service
plus
An advantage; a good thing.
Example
Knowledge of French is a plus in her job.
portion
One part of something larger.
Example
a substantial/significant portion of the population
pose
A particular position in which someone stands or sits, often for a photograph; or an affected manner adopted to impress others.
Example
The dancer held the pose for several seconds.
potential
The possibility of something happening or being developed or used.
Example
the potential for change
praise
Words that show that you approve of and admire somebody/something.
Example
The team coach singled out two players for special praise.
preference
A greater interest in or desire for somebody/something than somebody/something else.
Example
It's a matter of personal preference.
preparation
The act or process of getting ready for something or making something ready.
Example
food preparation
priority
Something that you think is more important than other things and should be dealt with first.
Example
a high/low priority
privacy
The state of being alone and not watched or interrupted by other people.
Example
She was longing for some peace and privacy.
probability
How likely something is to happen.
Example
The probability is that prices will rise rapidly.
procedure
A way of doing something, especially the usual or correct way.
Example
emergency/safety/disciplinary procedures
programming
The process of writing and testing computer programs.
Example
programming languages
promotion
A move to a more important job or rank in a company or an organization.
Example
The new job is a promotion for him.
prompt
A word, sign, or piece of text that helps someone remember what to say or do, especially for an actor or computer user.
Example
The actor needed a prompt to remember his next line.
proof
Information, documents, etc. that show that something is true.
Example
conclusive/definitive/scientific proof
proportion
A part or share of a whole.
Example
Water covers a large proportion of the earth's surface.
proposal
A formal suggestion or plan; the act of making a suggestion.
Example
to submit/present/put forward a proposal
prospect
The possibility that something will happen.
Example
There is no immediate prospect of peace.
protection
The act of protecting somebody/something; the state of being protected.
Example
Wear clothes that provide adequate protection against the wind and rain.
protein
A substance, found within all living things, that forms the structure of muscles, organs, etc. There are many different proteins and they are an essential part of what humans and animals eat to help them grow and stay healthy.
Example
essential proteins and vitamins
protester
A person who makes a public protest.
Example
Thousands of protesters marched through the city.
psychologist
A scientist who studies and is trained in psychology.
Example
to see a psychologist
psychology
The scientific study of the mind and how it influences behaviour.
Example
clinical/educational/child/sport psychology
publication
The act of printing a book, a magazine, etc. and making it available to the public; a book, a magazine, etc. that has been published.
Example
specialist publications
publicity
The attention that is given to somebody/something by newspapers, television, etc.
Example
good/bad/adverse publicity
publishing
The profession or business of preparing and printing books, magazines, CD-ROMs, etc. and selling or making them available to the public.
Example
a job in publishing
punk
A type of loud and aggressive rock music popular in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Example
a punk band
purchase
The act or process of buying something.
Example
to make a purchase (= buy something)
pursuit
The act of looking for or trying to get something.
Example
the pursuit of happiness/knowledge/profit
puzzle
A game, etc. that you have to think about carefully in order to answer it or do it.
Example
a crossword puzzle
questionnaire
A written list of questions that are answered by a number of people so that information can be collected from the answers.
Example
(British English), to fill in a questionnaire
racist
A person who believes that some races of people are better than others or who has general beliefs about other people based only on their race, and may show this in violent or unfair treatment of people of other races.
Example
He's a racist.
radiation
Powerful and very dangerous rays that are sent out from radioactive substances.
Example
high levels/doses of radiation that damage cells
rail
A wooden or metal bar placed around something as a barrier or to provide support.
Example
She leaned on the ship's rail and gazed out to sea.
rank
The position, especially a high position, that somebody has in a particular organization, society, etc.
Example
She was not used to mixing with people of high social rank.
rat
A small animal with a long tail, that looks like a large mouse, usually considered a pest (= an animal which is disliked because it destroys food or spreads disease).
Example
rat poison
rating
A measurement of how good, popular, important, etc. somebody/something is, especially in relation to other people or things.
Example
The poll gave an approval rating of 39 per cent for the president.
recall
The action of remembering something; or a request from a manufacturer asking customers to return a faulty product.
Example
The car company issued a recall for thousands of vehicles.
receiver
The part of a phone that you hold close to your mouth and ear.
Example
to pick up/lift/put down/replace the receiver
recession
A difficult time for the economy of a country, when there is less trade and industrial activity than usual and more people are unemployed.
Example
How do you assess the impact of the current recession on manufacturing?
recovery
The process of becoming well again after an illness or injury.
Example
My father has made a full recovery from the operation.
recruit
A person who has recently joined the armed forces or the police.
Example
the training of new recruits
recruitment
The act or process of finding new people to join a company, an organization, the armed forces, etc.
Example
the recruitment of new members
reduction
An act of making something less or smaller; the state of being made less or smaller.
Example
Some staff received wage rises, while others experienced a reduction.
referee
The official who controls the game in some sports.
Example
He was sent off for arguing with the referee.
refugee
A person who has been forced to leave their country or home, because there is a war or for political, religious or social reasons.
Example
There has been a steady flow of refugees from the war zone.
regard
Attention to or thought and care for somebody/something.
Example
to have scant/little/no regard for somebody/something
register
An official list or record of names, items, etc.; a book that contains such a list.
Example
The bride and groom signed the register.
registration
The act of making an official record of something/somebody.
Example
the registration of letters and parcels
regret
A sad feeling because of something that has happened or something that you have done or not done.
Example
a feeling/pang/twinge of regret
regulation
An official rule made by a government or some other authority.
Example
too many rules and regulations
relief
The feeling of happiness that you have when something unpleasant stops or does not happen.
Example
I felt a huge sense of relief when I heard they were all OK.
remark
Something that you say or write which expresses an opinion, a thought, etc. about somebody/something.
Example
to make a remark
reporting
The presenting of and writing about news on television and radio, and in newspapers.
Example
accurate/balanced/objective reporting
representative
A person who has been chosen to speak or vote for somebody else or for a group of people, or to take the place of somebody else.
Example
Our elected representatives in government should be doing something about this.
reputation
The opinion that people have about what somebody/something is like, based on what has happened in the past.
Example
to have a good/bad reputation
requirement
Something that you need or want.
Example
the basic requirements of life
rescue
The act of saving somebody/something from a dangerous or difficult situation; the fact of being saved.
Example
We had given up hope of rescue.
resident
A person who lives in a particular place or who has their home there.
Example
a resident of the United States
resolve
Firm determination to do something, even when it is difficult.
Example
Despite the setbacks, her resolve never wavered.
resort
A place where a lot of people go on holiday.
Example
seaside/mountain resorts
restriction
A rule or law that limits what you can do or what can happen.
Example
import/speed/travel restrictions
retail
The selling of goods to the public, usually through shops.
Example
The recommended retail price is £9.99.
revision
A change or set of changes to something.
Example
He made some minor revisions to the report before printing it out.
reward
A thing that you are given because you have done something good, worked hard, etc.
Example
a financial reward
rhythm
A strong regular repeated pattern of sounds or movements.
Example
to dance to the rhythm of the music
rival
A person, company or thing that competes with another in sport, business, etc.
Example
The two teams have always been rivals.
robbery
The crime of stealing money or goods from a bank, shop, person, etc., especially using violence or threats.
Example
armed robbery (= using a gun, knife, etc.)
rocket
A spacecraft in the shape of a tube that is driven by a stream of gases let out behind it when fuel is burned inside.
Example
a space rocket
romance
An exciting, usually short, relationship between two people who are in love with each other.
Example
a holiday romance
rose
A flower with a sweet smell that grows on a bush with thorns (= sharp points) on its stems.
Example
a bunch of red roses
rub
The action of rubbing something; or a difficulty or problem (especially in the phrase "the rub").
Example
She gave the lamp a quick rub with a soft cloth.
rubber
A strong substance that can be stretched and does not allow liquids to pass through it, used for making tyres, boots, etc. It is made from the liquid (= sap) inside a tropical plant or is produced using chemicals.
Example
a ball made of rubber
ruin
The state or process of being destroyed or severely damaged.
Example
A large number of churches fell into ruin after the revolution.
rush
A sudden strong movement or action.
Example
Shoppers made a rush for the exits.
satellite
An electronic device that is sent into space and moves around the earth or another planet. It is used for communicating by radio, television, etc. and for gathering information.
Example
a weather/communications/spy satellite
satisfaction
The good feeling that you have when you have achieved something or when something that you wanted to happen does happen; something that gives you this feeling.
Example
to gain/get/derive satisfaction from something
saving
An amount of something such as time or money that you do not need to use or spend.
Example
Buy three and make a saving of 55p.
scale
The size or extent of something, especially when compared with something else.
Example
on a … scale, They entertain on a large scale (= they hold expensive parties with a lot of guests).
scandal
Behaviour or an event that people think is morally or legally wrong and causes public feelings of shock or anger.
Example
a series of sex scandals
scenario
A description of how things might happen in the future.
Example
Let me suggest a possible scenario.
scholar
A person who knows a lot about a particular subject because they have studied it in detail.
Example
a classical scholar
screening
The act of showing a film or television programme.
Example
This will be the movie's first screening in this country.
seeker
A person who is trying to find or get the thing mentioned.
Example
an attention/a publicity seeker
selection
The process of choosing somebody/something from a group of people or things, usually according to a system.
Example
She took a long time to make her selection.
seminar
A class at a university or college when a small group of students and a teacher discuss or study a particular topic.
Example
Teaching is by lectures and seminars.
senate
The upper house of the legislature in countries like the United States and Australia.
Example
The bill was passed by the Senate.
sequence
A set of events, actions, numbers, etc. which have a particular order and which lead to a particular result.
Example
He described the sequence of events leading up to the robbery.
session
A period of time that is spent doing a particular activity.
Example
a training/practice session
settler
A person who goes to live in a new country or region.
Example
Most of the settlers came from England.
shade
An area that is dark and cool under or behind something, for example a tree or building, because the sun’s light does not get to it.
Example
The shade of the pine tree provided some protection from the sun.
shadow
The dark shape that somebody/something’s form makes on a surface, for example on the ground, when they are between the light and the surface.
Example
The children were having fun, chasing each other's shadows.
shelter
The fact of having a place to live or stay, considered as a basic human need.
Example
Human beings need food, clothing and shelter.
shock
A strong feeling of surprise as a result of something happening, especially something unpleasant; the event that causes this feeling.
Example
I got a terrible shock the other day.
shooting
A situation in which a person is shot with a gun.
Example
Terrorist groups claimed responsibility for the shootings and bomb attacks.
shore
The land along the edge of the sea, the ocean or a lake.
Example
a rocky/sandy shore
shortage
A situation when there is not enough of the people or things that are needed.
Example
food/housing/water shortages
shot
The act of firing a gun; the sound this makes.
Example
We heard some shots in the distance.
sibling
A brother or sister.
Example
squabbles between siblings
sidewalk
A paved path for pedestrians at the side of a street.
Example
The children were playing on the sidewalk.
significance
The importance of something, especially when this has an effect on what happens in the future.
Example
a decision of major political significance
silence
A complete lack of noise or sound.
Example
Their footsteps echoed in the silence.
silk
Fine soft thread produced by silkworms.
Example
The caterpillar spins the silk around its entire body.
skull
The bone structure that forms the head and surrounds and protects the brain.
Example
a fractured skull
slave
A person who is owned by another person and is forced to work for and obey them.
Example
A former slave, he graduated from Clafflin University in South Carolina.
slope
A surface or piece of land that slopes (= is higher at one end than the other).
Example
on a slope, The town is built on a slope.
soul
The spiritual part of a person, believed to exist after death.
Example
He believed his immortal soul was in peril.
specialist
A person who is an expert in a particular area of work or study.
Example
a specialist in Japanese history
species
A group into which animals, plants, etc. that are able to have sex with each other and produce healthy young are divided, smaller than a genus and identified by a Latin name.
Example
a conservation area for endangered species
spectator
A person who is watching an event, especially a sports event.
Example
The new football stadium will hold 75 000 spectators.
speculation
The act of forming opinions about what has happened or what might happen without knowing all the facts.
Example
His private life is the subject of much speculation.
spice
One of the various types of powder or seed that come from plants and are used in cooking. Spices have a strong taste and smell.
Example
common spices such as ginger and cinnamon
spite
A feeling of wanting to hurt or upset somebody.
Example
out of spite, I'm sure he only said it out of spite.
spokesman
A person who speaks for a group or an organization.
Example
a police spokesman
spokesperson
A person who speaks for a group or an organization.
Example
a council spokesperson
sponsor
A person or company that pays for a radio or television programme, or for a concert or sporting event, usually in return for advertising.
Example
The programme is funded by a number of corporate sponsors.
sponsorship
Financial support from a sponsor.
Example
a $50 million sponsorship deal
spread
An increase in the amount or number of something that there is, or in the area that is affected by something.
Example
measures to halt the spread of the disease
stance
The opinions that somebody has about something and expresses publicly.
Example
What is the newspaper's stance on the war?
status
The legal position of a person, group or country.
Example
They were granted refugee status.
steam
The hot gas that water changes into when it boils.
Example
Steam rose from the boiling kettle.
steel
A strong, hard metal that is made of a mixture of iron and carbon.
Example
the iron and steel industry
stock
A supply of goods that is available for sale in a shop.
Example
We have a fast turnover of stock.
stream
A small, narrow river.
Example
a mountain stream
stroke
An act of hitting a ball, for example with a bat or racket.
Example
What a beautiful stroke!
suburb
An area where people live that is outside the centre of a city.
Example
a suburb of London
suffering
Physical or mental pain.
Example
Death finally brought an end to her suffering.
sum
An amount of money.
Example
You will be fined the sum of £200.
surgeon
A doctor who is trained to perform surgery (= medical operations that involve cutting open a person’s body).
Example
a brain/heart surgeon
surgery
Medical treatment of injuries or diseases that involves cutting open a person’s body and often removing or replacing some parts; the branch of medicine connected with this treatment.
Example
major/minor surgery
survival
The state of continuing to live or exist, often despite difficulty or danger.
Example
the struggle/battle/fight for survival
survivor
A person who continues to live, especially despite being nearly killed or experiencing great danger or difficulty.
Example
the sole/only survivor of the massacre
switch
A small device that you press or move up and down in order to turn a light or piece of electrical equipment on and off.
Example
a light switch
tag
A small piece of paper, cloth, plastic, etc. attached to something to identify it or give information about it.
Example
He put name tags on all his shirts.
tale
A story created using the imagination, especially one that is full of action and adventure.
Example
a coming-of-age/morality tale
tank
A large container for holding liquid or gas.
Example
a fuel/water/storage tank
teen
A teenager.
Example
She is a teen and loves going to concerts.
temple
A building used for religious worship, especially in religions other than Christianity.
Example
the Temple of Diana at Ephesus
tendency
If somebody/something has a particular tendency, they are likely to behave or act in a particular way.
Example
to display artistic tendencies
tension
A situation in which people do not trust each other, or feel unfriendly towards each other, and that may cause them to attack each other.
Example
There is mounting tension along the border.
terms
The conditions that people offer, demand or accept when they make an agreement, an arrangement or a contract.
Example
peace terms
territory
Land that is under the control of a particular country or political leader.
Example
enemy/disputed/foreign territory
terror
A feeling of extreme fear.
Example
a feeling of sheer/pure terror
terrorism
The use of violent action in order to achieve political aims or to force a government to act.
Example
an act of terrorism
terrorist
A person who takes part in terrorism.
Example
The terrorists are threatening to blow up the plane.
testing
The activity of testing somebody/something in order to find something out, see if it works, etc.
Example
nuclear testing
textbook
A book that teaches a particular subject and that is used especially in schools and colleges.
Example
a school/medical/history textbook
theft
The crime of stealing something from a person or place.
Example
car theft
therapist
A specialist who treats a particular type of illness or problem, or who uses a particular type of treatment.
Example
a speech therapist
therapy
The treatment of a physical problem or an illness.
Example
He is receiving therapy for cancer.
thesis
A long piece of writing completed by a student as part of a university degree, based on their own research.
Example
Students must submit a thesis on an agreed subject within four years.
threat
A statement in which you tell somebody that you will punish or harm them, especially if they do not do what you want.
Example
to make threats against somebody
thumb
The short, thick finger at the side of the hand, slightly apart from the other four.
Example
She still sucks her thumb when she's worried.
timing
The act of choosing when something happens; a particular point or period of time when something happens or is planned.
Example
The timing of the decision was a complete surprise.
tissue
A piece of soft paper, used especially as a handkerchief.
Example
a box of tissues
ton
A unit for measuring weight, in the UK 2 240 pounds (long ton) and in the US 2 000 pounds (short ton).
Example
(informal), What have you got in this bag? It weighs a ton (= is very heavy).
tone
The quality of somebody’s voice, especially expressing a particular emotion.
Example
speaking in hushed/low/clipped/measured, etc. tones
tournament
A sports competition involving a number of teams or players who take part in different games and must leave the competition if they lose. The competition continues until there is only the winner left.
Example
a golf/tennis/soccer/chess tournament
trading
The activity of buying and selling things.
Example
new laws on Sunday trading (= shops being open on Sundays)
tragedy
A very sad event or situation, especially one that involves death.
Example
It's a tragedy that she died so young.
trait
A particular quality in your personality.
Example
personality traits
transition
The process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another.
Example
the transition from school to full-time work
transportation
A system for carrying people or goods from one place to another using vehicles, roads, etc.
Example
public transportation (= the system of buses, trains, etc. provided for people to travel from one place to another)
treasure
A collection of valuable things such as gold, silver and jewellery.
Example
buried treasure
trial
A formal examination of evidence in court by a judge and often a jury, to decide if somebody accused of a crime is guilty or not.
Example
a murder/criminal trial
tribe
A social group in a traditional society consisting of people with the same language, culture, religion, etc., living in a particular area and often having one leader known as a chief.
Example
They were a nomadic horse-riding tribe.
trillion
The number 1,000,000,000,000; one million million.
Example
The national debt has reached over a trillion dollars.
troop
Soldiers, especially in large groups.
Example
They announced the withdrawal of 12 000 troops from the area.
trust
The belief that somebody/something is good, sincere, honest, etc. and will not try to harm or trick you.
Example
Our partnership is based on trust.
tsunami
An extremely large wave in the sea caused, for example, by an earthquake.
Example
A tsunami early warning system was set up in Hawaii.
tunnel
A passage built underground, for example to allow a road or railway to go through a hill, under a river, etc.
Example
a railway/railroad tunnel
uncertainty
The state of being uncertain.
Example
There is considerable uncertainty about the company's future.
unity
The state of being in agreement and working together; the state of being joined together to form one unit.
Example
European unity
universe
The whole of space and everything in it, including the earth, the planets and the stars.
Example
in the universe, Could there be intelligent life elsewhere in the universe?
usage
The way in which words are used in a language.
Example
a book on current English usage
variation
A change, especially in the amount or level of something.
Example
The dial records very slight variations in pressure.
venue
A place where people meet for an organized event, for example a concert, sporting event or conference.
Example
The band will be playing at 20 different venues on their UK tour.
victory
Success in a game, an election, a war, etc.
Example
to win a narrow victory
viewpoint
A way of thinking about a subject.
Example
from a… viewpoint, Try looking at things from a different viewpoint.
violence
Violent behaviour that is intended to hurt or kill somebody.
Example
Police do not think this killing was a random act of violence.
visa
A stamp or mark put in your passport by officials of a foreign country that gives you permission to enter, pass through or leave their country.
Example
to apply for a visa
vision
The ability to see; the area that you can see from a particular position.
Example
to have good/perfect/poor/blurred/normal vision
vitamin
A natural substance found in food that is an essential part of what humans and animals need to help them grow and stay healthy. There are many different vitamins.
Example
vitamin A/B/D/E
volume
The amount of space that an object or a substance fills; the amount of space that a container has.
Example
How do you measure the volume of a gas?
voting
The action of choosing somebody/something in an election or at a meeting.
Example
He was eliminated in the first round of voting.
wage
A regular amount of money that you earn, usually every week or every month, for work or services.
Example
wages of £300 a week
warming
The process of making something, or of becoming, warm or warmer.
Example
atmospheric warming
weakness
Lack of physical strength.
Example
The disease causes progressive muscle weakness.
wealth
A large amount of money, property, etc. that a person or country owns.
Example
the desire to gain wealth and power
welfare
The general health, happiness and safety of a person, an animal or a group.
Example
We are concerned about the child's welfare.
wheat
A plant grown for its grain that is used to produce the flour for bread, cakes, pasta, etc.; the grain of this plant.
Example
wheat flour
wildlife
Animals, birds, insects, etc. that are wild and live in a natural environment.
Example
policies designed to protect wildlife
wire
Metal in the form of thin thread; a piece of this.
Example
a coil of copper wire
wisdom
The ability to make sensible decisions and give good advice because of the experience and knowledge that you have.
Example
She was known to be a woman of great wisdom.
witness
A person who sees something happen and is able to describe it to other people.
Example
He failed to interview a key witness.
wolf
A wild carnivorous mammal of the dog family living and hunting in packs.
Example
The wolf howled in the forest.
workforce
All the people who work for a particular company, organization, etc.
Example
The factory has a 1 000-strong workforce.
workplace
The office, factory, etc. where people work.
Example
the introduction of new technology into the workplace
workshop
A period of discussion and practical work on a particular subject, in which a group of people share their knowledge and experience.
Example
There will be the opportunity for practical theatre work in drama workshops.
worm
A long, thin creature with a soft body and no bones or legs.
Example
birds looking for worms
worth
An amount of something that has the value mentioned.
Example
The winner will receive fifty pounds' worth of books.
wound
An injury to part of the body, especially one in which a hole is made in the skin using a weapon.
Example
a gunshot/stab wound
wrist
The joint between the hand and the arm.
Example
She's broken her wrist.