Children’s Illustrated Thesaurus

sensitive

selfish sense 1 comb a
» adjective caring only about » noun a feeling you have about
tThheeayrecao.mbed b
yourself Ella knew it was something Zoe had a sense c
selfish not to share her sweets. that everything was going well.
egoistic or egoistical, consciousness, feeling, d
egotistic or egotistical, impression e
greedy, self-centred,
self-interested, sense 2 f
self-seeking, ungenerous » noun the ability to think and g

sell 1 behave sensibly Oliver had h
the sense to call me when he i
verb to let someone have got lost. j
brains (informal),
» something in return for money common sense, k
I decided to sell my bike. intelligence, judgment, l
deal in, hawk, peddle, reason, wisdom, m
trade in nous, sagacity, wit, wits n
antonym: buy o
sense 3 p
sell 2 » verb to become aware q

verb to have available for of something Chloe sensed r
that Jayden wasn’t telling her s
» people to buy the whole story.
The shop sells doughnuts. be aware of, feel, t
deal in, stock, trade in get the impression, u
antonym: buy have a hunch, realize v
w
sensible hunt x
» adjective showing good sense y
Tfohreyevhiduenntecde.
and judgment We panicked z
when the dog got stuck but Ted tThlhionegyoslolkeofktefbdoefhorirnd.
was sensible and calmly freed it.
down-to-earth, judicious,
practical, prudent, rational,
sound, wise
antonym: foolish

The shop sells doughnuts.

send 1 scour the ground.
» verb to arrange for something
They scoured
to be delivered We sent
mum flowers for Mother’s Day. Tsheeyesokughot ouuttclues.
dispatch, forward, remit sTthhieefntevtihtdeheynrscioef.teud gthrhough

send 2 We panicked when the dog got search
» verb to transmit a signal or stuck but Ted was sensible » 1 verb to look for something
and calmly freed it. They used a helicopter to search the place.
message Satellites send
and receive signals to and sensitive
from Earth. » adjective easily upset about
broadcast, stream, transmit
something The little boy was
senior sensitive about other children
playing with his toys.
adjective the highest and most easily offended, easily
upset, thin-skinned, touchy
» important in an organization
The senior officer trained 199
the new recruits.
best, better, high-ranking,
superior
antonym: junior

sentimental

A series set 1 settle 3
» noun a group of things that » verb to make your home in
B noun a number of things
belong together The set a place We settled in a new
C » coming one after the other of tools belonged in the shed. part of town.
Logan read a series of books batch, bunch, bundle, make your home,
D about the same character. collection, kit, outfit, series, move to, put down roots,
chain, run, sequence, assemblage, compendium, take up residence
E Isabella had a sentimental string, succession ensemble
attachment to her old teddy bear. set up
serious 1 set 2 » verb to make arrangements
F sentimental » adjective very bad and worrying » verb to put or place something
G » adjective expressing for something My sister
Appendicitis is a serious somewhere Eloise set her set up a couple of interviews
exaggerated sadness or but treatable illness. bag down on the ground. for part-time jobs.
tenderness Isabella had a acute, alarming, bad, deposit, lay, locate, place, arrange, establish, install,
critical, dangerous, position, put, rest, stick institute, organize
H sentimental attachment to her extreme, grave, grievous,
old teddy bear. grim, intense, precarious, sever
severe, worrying » verb to cut something off
I maudlin, mushy (informal),
nostalgic, sloppy (informal), serious 2 Eloise set her bag down on The flowers had been
slushy (informal), » adjective important, deserving the ground. severed from their stems
during the storm.
J dewy-eyed, mawkish, careful thought Getting set 3 chop off, hack off, lop off
overemotional a dog is a serious responsibility. » adjective fixed and not varying
crucial, deep, difficult, several
K separate 1 far-reaching, grave, We arrived at the set time. » adjective indicating a small
L » adjective not connected to important, momentous, arranged, established,
pressing, profound, firm, fixed, predetermined, number Clive won several
something else The house significant, urgent, weighty scheduled medals in the competition.
stood in a field, separate from antonym: funny assorted, some, sundry,
set on various
M the other houses. serious 3 » adjective determined to do
detached, disconnected, » adjective sincere about Clive won several medals
something Josie was in the competition.
N discrete, divorced, isolated, something I thought Craig set on holidaying at the beach.
unconnected was joking, but he was serious. bent on, determined, severe 1
antonym: connected earnest, genuine, heartfelt, intent on » adjective extremely bad
honest, in earnest, resolute,
O separate 2 resolved, sincere settle 1 or unpleasant The hurricane
verb to end a connection caused severe damage.
serious 4 verb to put an end to acute, critical, dire,
P » between people or things » adjective quiet and not laughing extreme, grave, intense,
The two train carriages » an argument or problem serious, terrible
Keira put on a serious The dispute was antonym: mild
Q separated, taking the expression for her passport finally settled.
passengers to different photograph. clear up, decide, severe 2
earnest, grave, humourless, dispose of, put an end to, » adjective stern and harsh
R destinations. pensive, sober, solemn, reconcile, resolve,
detach, disconnect, divide, staid, stern straighten out Janet gave Lee a severe
look when he dropped
S sunder, uncouple Keira put on a serious expression settle 2 the vase.
antonym: connect for her passport photograph. » verb to decide or arrange disapproving, grim, hard,
harsh, stern, strict
T sequence 1 something My friends and I
U noun a number of events settled on going to the cinema.
agree, arrange, decide on,
» coming one after another determine, fix
The team enjoyed

V a sequence of wins.
chain, course, cycle,
series, string, succession

W sequence 2
X noun a particular order
Y » in which things are arranged

The sequence of each day’s
TV programmes is decided

Z in advance.
arrangement, order,
progression, structure

200

shelter

shabby 1 shame 1 sheer 2 a
» adjective ragged and worn in » adjective vertical
noun a feeling of guilt b
appearance Dad’s favourite The climbing wall was c
coat was now old and shabby. » or embarrassment on the sheer face of a building.
dilapidated, ragged, The shame Ryan felt over perpendicular, steep, d
scruffy, seedy, tatty, his rushed homework made vertical e
threadbare, worn, him determined to do well
down at heel, run-down, next time. sheer 3 f
the worse for wear embarrassment, » adjective very light and g
humiliation, ignominy,
shabby 2 abashment, loss of face, delicate Molly wore a sheer h
» adjective behaving meanly and mortification black scarf. i
delicate, fine, lightweight, j
unfairly My aunt complained shame 2 The friends shared the pizza. thin
to the manager about the antonym: thick k
family’s shabby treatment noun something that makes share 1 l
by the waiter. shelter 1 m
contemptible, despicable, » people lose respect for you verb to divide something » noun a place providing n
dirty, mean, rotten Bullies bring shame o
(informal), dishonourable, on a school. » between two or more people protection We all met p
ignoble, scurvy discredit, disgrace, The friends shared the pizza. at the bus shelter. q
dishonour, scandal divide, split hostel, refuge, sanctuary
shake 1 r
shame 3 share 2 shelter 2 s
verb to move something from » verb to make someone feel » noun a portion of something
noun protection from t
» side to side or up and down ashamed My mum was I took my share of popcorn. u
Shake the bottle before so upset about the state of allotment, portion, quota, » the weather or danger v
opening it. my bedroom that she shamed ration The hut provided shelter w
agitate, brandish, me into tidying it. from the snowy mountainside. x
flourish, wave disgrace, embarrass, asylum, cover, harbour, y
humiliate, abash, mortify haven, protection, refuge,
shake 2 safety, sanctuary z
shameless sharp 1
verb to move from side to side » adjective having a fine cutting The hut provided shelter
adjective behaving badly from the snowy mountainside.
» or up and down edge or point Ian used the
The earthquake caused » without showing any shame sharp knife to cut up an apple. shelter 3
the ground to shake. Greg complimented the jagged, keen, pointed,
jolt, quake, quiver, shiver, teacher in a shameless attempt razor-sharp verb to stay somewhere
shudder, tremble, vibrate, to get better grades. antonym: blunt
joggle, oscillate barefaced, brazen, flagrant, » in order to be safe
unabashed, unashamed sharp 2 Luca sheltered in the
shake 3 doorway until the rain stopped.
» verb to shock and upset shape 1 adjective quick to notice hide, huddle, take cover
» noun the outline of something
someone The news shook » or understand things shelter 4
me and I had to lie down. The geometric shapes The mouse was sharp
distress, disturb, rattle formed a starlike pattern. enough to leave the cheese verb to hide or protect
(informal), shock, unnerve, contours, figure, form, on the mousetrap.
upset, discompose, lines, outline alert, astute, bright, » someone or something
traumatize observant, perceptive, The mother bird sheltered
quick, quick-witted the chicks until they could fly.
shaky harbour, hide, protect,
» adjective weak and unsteady The geometric shapes formed sharp 3 shield
a starlike pattern. » adjective sudden and
The rope bridge was shaky.
rickety, tottering, trembling, shape 2 significant Josie made
unstable, unsteady, wobbly a sharp turn into the car park.
verb to make something abrupt, marked, sudden
The rope bridge was shaky.
» in a particular form sheer 1
Shape the dough into a loaf. » adjective complete and total
fashion, form, make,
model, mould The nursery rhyme was
sheer nonsense.
absolute, complete, pure,
total, unqualified, utter,
unadulterated,
unmitigated (formal)

201

shine

A shine shop shorten
B » verb to give out a bright light » verb to make something shorter
noun a place where things
The stars shone brightly are sold Alexander shortened his
in the night sky. name to Alex.
▼ SEE BELOW

C beam, gleam, glow, radiate, abbreviate, cut, trim,
shimmer, sparkle shore abridge, downsize, truncate
antonym: lengthen
D shining » noun land that borders a body
shout 1
of water The sandy shore » noun a loud call or cry
E » adjective giving out or reflecting was littered with shells.
light Eleanor put sunglasses bank, beach, coast, Naomi arranged the Russian dolls I heard a distant shout and
on to protect her eyes from foreshore, front, lakefront, from short to tall. ran to see what the matter was.
bellow, cry, roar,
F the shining sunlight. lakeside, sands, seaboard, short 2 scream, yell
bright, brilliant, gleaming, seashore, shingle, strand,
luminous, radiant, waterside

G shimmering, sparkling, » adjective small in height shout 2
incandescent Naomi arranged the Russian » verb to call or cry loudly
dolls from short to tall.
H shock 1 little, small, diminutive, tiny, Paul shouted downstairs
I » noun a sudden upsetting petite, squat to his brother.
antonym: tall bawl, bellow, call, cry, roar,
experience It was a shock scream, yell
to discover that the screen on short 3
» adjective not using many words show 1
J her phone had shattered. » verb to prove something The
blow, bombshell, distress, Kevin’s speech was short
and to the point. experiment showed that oil is
K trauma brief, concise, succinct, less dense than water.
L shock 2 terse, abridged, laconic, demonstrate, prove
pithy
» verb to make you feel upset
He was shocked when his
M exam was cancelled at the very show 2
last minute. The sandy shore was littered shortage » verb to display a quality or
with shells. » noun a lack of something
N numb, paralyse, shake, characteristic Savannah’s
stagger, stun, traumatize There was a shortage sketches showed real skill.
of bananas in the shops. demonstrate, display,
O shock 3 short 1 dearth, deficiency, lack, indicate, manifest, reveal,
P »  » verb to offend because of being adjective not lasting very long scarcity, shortfall, want, evince, testify to
rude or immoral Nana is We enjoyed a short break insufficiency, paucity
easily shocked by my jokes. antonym: abundance
in the countryside.
Q appal, disgust, offend, brief, fleeting, momentary,
outrage, nauseate, short-lived

scandalize antonym: long shop

R
S

T

UV boutique» noun a place where things
are sold I went to the
coffee shop.

W I bought smart clothes
in the boutique.
YX storeI browsed in the store.

Z

202

sight

show 3 shrill sick 3 : sick of a
» noun a public exhibition » adjective high-pitched and » adjective (informal) tired of
b
Our class went to see a piercing The bird’s call was something Cora was sick c
show at the local theatre. shrill and loud. of listening to the same music
display, exhibition, penetrating, piercing, sharp over and over again. d
presentation bored of, fed up with, e
shrink Pete was shy and found it tired of, weary of
show 4 » verb to become smaller hard to make friends at school. f
» noun a display of a feeling side 1 g
Chay’s sweater had shrunk » noun the edge of something
or quality Granny gave in the wash. h
all of us hugs and kisses contract, diminish, dwindle, Tyler sat up and dangled his i
in a big show of affection. get smaller, narrow legs over the side of the bed. j
air, display, pose, pretence, antonym: grow border, edge, verge
semblance related word: adjective lateral k
l
show 5 : show how shy side 2 m
» verb to do something to teach n
adjective nervous in the noun one of two groups o
someone else Dad showed p
me how to play the game. » company of other people » involved in a dispute or contest q
demonstrate, instruct, Pete was shy and found it Both sides had won the
teach hard to make friends at school. competition before. r
bashful, retiring, camp, faction, party, team s
Dad showed me how Chay’s sweater had shrunk self-conscious, timid,
to play the game. in the wash. diffident, self-effacing side with t
antonym: bold » verb to support someone in u
shrewd shut 1 v
» verb to close something sick 1 an argument Louise always w
adjective showing intelligence » adjective unwell or ill sided with her sister when x
Someone had forgotten anyone was mean to her. y
» and good judgment to shut the door. The doctor’s waiting room agree with, stand up for,
She was shrewd with close, fasten, slam was full of sick people. support, take the part of z
money and saved most of it. antonym: open ailing, ill, poorly (informal),
astute, canny, crafty, run down, under par sight 1
perceptive, sharp, smart, shut 2 (informal), under the weather, » noun the ability to see
perspicacious, sagacious » adjective closed or fastened unwell
antonym: well My sight is so much better
Eva heard a sound coming now that I wear glasses.
from behind the shut door. sick 2 eyesight, visibility, vision
closed, fastened, sealed » adjective feeling as if you are related words: adjectives
antonym: open optical, visual
going to vomit The stomach
supermarket I stocked up on cereal bug made Lily feel sick.
at the supermarket. ill, nauseous, queasy

mall

I walked round the
mall window-shopping.

hypermarket I spent a long time deciding market
what to buy in the vast aisles
of the hypermarket. I bought fruit from a stall
at the market.

203

sight

A sight 2 Hayley signalled for a taxi. silent 1 simple 2
B » noun something you see » adjective not saying anything » adjective plain in style
signal 2
The fields of wild flowers The class fell silent when Sarah wore a simple but
were a beautiful sight. verb to make a sign as the teacher entered the room. stylish outfit.
dumb, mute, speechless, classic, clean, plain, severe
C display, scene, spectacle » a message to someone taciturn, wordless, antonym: elaborate
D sight 3 Hayley signalled for a taxi. tongue-tied,
beckon, gesticulate, uncommunicative simplify
» verb to see something gesture, motion, nod,
sign, wave silent 2 verb to make something easier
or someone We sighted » adjective making no noise
significant » to do or understand
E a rare red squirrel on » adjective large or important The clock was silent as The teacher had to
our walk in the woods. its battery needed replacing. simplify her instructions as
The medicine had a hushed, quiet, some of the students didn’t
F see, spot significant effect on Evan’s soundless, still understand them.
G sign 1 stomach bug, and he was antonym: noisy make simpler, streamline
feeling better in no time.
» noun a mark or symbol considerable, important, silly sin 1
A tick is a sign to show impressive, marked, » adjective foolish or ridiculous » noun wicked and immoral
notable, pronounced,
H good work. striking The dog wore a silly hat. behaviour The man asked
character, emblem, logo, antonym: insignificant absurd, crazy, daft, foolish, for forgiveness for his sins.
frivolous, idiotic, inane, crime, evil, offence,
I mark, symbol ridiculous, stupid, asinine, wickedness, wrong,
J sign 2 fatuous, puerile, witless iniquity, misdeed,
transgression, trespass
noun a notice put up to give
sin 2
K » a warning or information » verb to do something wicked
The sign warned that
the floor was wet and slippery. and immoral I didn’t mean
to lie – I’m sorry I sinned.
L board, billboard, notice, cheat, do wrong, go astray,
placard, poster misbehave, transgress

M silence 1 The dog wore a silly hat. sincere
N » noun an absence of sound
similar adjective saying things that
O There was total silence in » adjective like something else
the room while the class took » you really mean
P the exam. Our red dresses were similar. Ashley gave her sincere
Q calm, hush, lull, peace, alike, analogous, thanks for the thoughtful gifts.
quiet, stillness comparable, like, uniform genuine, heartfelt, real,
R antonym: noise antonym: different wholehearted
S The sign warned that the floor was antonym: insincere

wet and slippery. silence 2 similarity single 1
» noun an inability or refusal to » adjective only one Ruby kept
T sign 3 noun the quality of being
U » noun evidence of something talk Mary maintained the single sock in case the
a respectful silence, keeping » like something else matching one turned up.
The green shoots of plants her thoughts to herself. The similarity between the lone, one, only,
and flowers were a sign that dumbness, muteness, two paintings is striking. sole, solitary
reticence, speechlessness, analogy, likeness,
V spring was on its way. taciturnity, resemblance, sameness,
clue, evidence, hint, uncommunicativeness, comparability,
indication, omen, voicelessness congruence, similitude
antonym: difference
W symptom, token, trace
X signal 1 silence 3 simple 1 Ruby kept the single sock in case
» verb to make someone or » adjective easy to understand the matching one turned up.
noun something that is
something quiet The crying or do The recipe had three
Y » intended to give a message baby was silenced by the arrival simple steps, so easy to make.
The signal lights flashed of his mother with some milk. easy, elementary,
deaden, gag, muffle, straightforward,
Z to warn that the bridge quiet, quieten, stifle, uncomplicated,
was opening. still, suppress understandable
beacon, cue, gesture, sign antonym: complicated

204

sleepy

single 2 The bears came in various sizes. skill slander 2 a
» adjective not married
size 1 noun the ability to do verb to say untrue and b
Barry was single and enjoyed » noun how big or small c
living on his own. » something well » malicious things about
unattached, unmarried something is The bears Completing such a complex d
came in various sizes. task requires skill. someone She apologized e
single 3 dimensions, extent, ability, competence, for slandering the President.
» adjective for one person only proportions dexterity, expertise, facility, libel, malign, smear, f
knack, proficiency defame, traduce, vilify g
Mum booked a single room size 2
at the hotel as Dad couldn’t go. » noun the fact of something skilled sleep 1 h
individual, separate i
being very large The sheer adjective having the knowledge noun the natural state of rest j
singular size of the island meant that
» adjective (formal) unusual it would take weeks to travel » to do something well » in which you are unconscious k
its entire coastline. The model was made by Heather woke up feeling l
and remarkable Mary had bulk, immensity, a highly skilled carpenter. rested after a good sleep. m
a singular smile – it lit up her magnitude, vastness able, accomplished, doze, forty winks (slang), n
whole face. competent, experienced, hibernation, kip (Britain; o
exceptional, extraordinary, skilful expert, masterly, slang), nap, slumber, p
rare, remarkable, » adjective able to do something professional, proficient, snooze (informal), q
uncommon, unique, skilful, trained dormancy, repose, siesta
unusual very well Kate had regular antonym: incompetent
tennis coaching and was sleep 2
sinister a skilful player. skinny
» adjective seeming harmful or able, accomplished, » adjective extremely thin verb to rest in a natural state
adept, competent, expert, of unconsciousness
evil The bad guy in the book masterly, proficient, skilled, The boy ate like a horse
was a sinister character. adroit, dexterous but was naturally skinny. ▼ SEE BELOW
evil, forbidding, menacing, antonym: incompetent bony, emaciated, lean,
ominous, threatening, scrawny, thin, underfed, sleepy 1
baleful, bodeful, disquieting undernourished » adjective tired and ready to go
antonym: plump
situation to sleep The cat was sleepy
» noun what is happening slander 1 and curled up on the rug.
drowsy, lethargic, sluggish,
Mr Lee mistaking me for my noun something untrue and somnolent, torpid
brother was a funny situation.
case, circumstances, » malicious said about someone sleepy 2
plight, scenario, It was a slander to say that » adjective not having much
state of affairs someone else wrote her books.
libel, scandal, slur, smear, activity or excitement We
aspersion, calumny, live in a sleepy little village.
defamation dull, peaceful, quiet

doze snooze slumber kip (British; slang) r
s
Orlando dozed. Smudge snoozed Marmalade slumbered Kitty regularly kipped
on and off. peacefully for hours. on the sofa. t
u
sleep hibernate
v
» 2 verb to rest in a natural state Ferdinand hibernated w
during winter. x
of unconsciousness The cats slept. y

z

205

slender

A

B fragrance

C odour perfume
D

E

F aroma A fruity fragrance wafted from the shampoo. spTohrtes okdou
G r firtowmashneor tbprolethaesra’nst.
The
H There was a stench of burnt fo
I Sofhferessmh elt t
emon tree released a tangy perfume.he

J strong
coffee.

K smellaroma stink

L scent 1 noun the quality of something The l
M
» that you sense through your nose
N There were so many smells
in the room.
O fchowoseerns fhoardthbeeirenscsepnet.cially

P od. That reek is co wThhaetrehawdasit a stink from
rolled in?
Q the dog

ming from your tr ;

R Sogmivientghionfgf

S in ainers.
a

the bin
horrible
T reek

U was
pong.

V stench
W
pong
X
(British and
Y Australian;

informal)

Z

206

smile

The woman was tall and slender. slogan slowly smart 2 a
» noun a short, easily » adverb not quickly or hurriedly » adjective clever and intelligent
slender 1 b
» adjective thin and lean, remembered phrase “Your A tortoise walks very slowly. Eliza was smart and always c
country needs you,” was a by degrees, gradually, got high marks at school.
not muscular The woman slogan used to enlist men into unhurriedly astute, bright, canny, d
was tall and slender. the army during World War I. antonym: quickly clever, ingenious, e
lean, slight, slim, svelte, jingle, motto intelligent, shrewd
sylphlike, willowy sly antonym: dumb f
slope 1 » adjective cunning and g
slender 2 smell 1
» adjective small in amount noun a flat surface with one deceptive The sly fox h
is known for its crafty noun the quality of i
or degree The politician won » end higher than the other hunting techniques. something that you sense j
the vote by a slender margin. The slope was so steep crafty, cunning, devious, through your nose
faint, remote, slight, slim, it was for advanced skiers only. scheming, underhand, wily k
small, inconsiderable, gradient, incline, ramp, ◀◀ SEE LEFT l
tenuous declination, declivity, small 1 m
inclination smell 2 n
slight adjective not large in size, » verb to have an unpleasant o
» adjective small in amount or p
» number, or amount smell Do my feet smell? q
degree Tallulah found a Everything in the dolls’ pong (Britain and Australia;
slight dent on her phone. house was on a small scale. informal), reek, stink r
insignificant, minor, little, miniature, minuscule, s
negligible, small, trivial, minute, restricted, tiny smell 3
inconsiderable, paltry, antonym: large » verb to become aware of the t
scanty u
antonym: large The slope was so steep it was for smell of something Connie v
advanced skiers only. could smell the flowers as soon w
slip 1 as she walked into the room. x
slope 2 Everything in the dolls' house was get a whiff (informal), y
verb to lose your footing and » verb to be at an angle on a small scale. scent, sniff
z
» slide unintentionally The bank sloped sharply small 2 smelly
Gavin slipped on the ice. down to the river. » adjective not important or » adjective having a strong
skid, slide, slither, fall, rise, slant
glide, skate significant Mum made small unpleasant smell Something
slouch changes to the seating plan. in the bin was extremely smelly.
slip 2 inconsequential, foul, reeking, stinking,
» verb to go somewhere quickly verb to stand or sit with your insignificant, little, minor, fetid, malodorous
negligible, petty, slight, antonym: fragrant
and quietly Amy slipped » shoulders and head drooping trifling, trivial, unimportant
away to her room while the smile 1
others watched TV. forwards Dom slouched, so smart 1
creep, sneak, steal his dad told him to sit straight. » adjective clean and neat verb to move the corners of
bow, droop, loaf, loll,
slip 3 lounge, slump, stoop in appearance My brother » your mouth upwards because
» noun a small mistake looked smart in his new
slow school uniform. you are pleased When Jon
Levi worked hard to » adjective moving or happening chic, dashing, elegant, saw me, he smiled and waved.
ensure there were no slips neat, spruce, stylish, beam, grin, smirk
in the calculations. with little speed We made modish, natty, snappy
blunder, error, mistake, slow progress climbing the hill. antonym: scruffy smile 2
slip-up, faux pas, gradual, leisurely, lingering, » noun the expression you have
imprudence, indiscretion ponderous, sluggish,
unhurried when you smile Using an
antonym: fast emoticon of a smile is a way
of flagging up a joke.
slow: slow down beam, grin, smirk
» verb to go or cause to go more
Using an emoticon of a smile is
slowly The car slowed down a way of flagging up a joke.
and then stopped.
check, decelerate

207

smooth

A snoop 1 soft 1 solitude
noun a person who interferesadjective not hard, stiff, or firm » noun the state of being alone
Eric quickly fell asleep
» in other people’s business Jem needed solitude so she
on the soft, comfy bed. could finish writing her story.
B » The guy was a snoop and isolation, loneliness,
C kept asking lots of questions. flexible, pliable, squashy, privacy, seclusion
busybody, detective, supple, yielding, bendable,
solve
eavesdropper, meddler, ductile, gelatinous,
verb to find the answer
D private detective, snooper, malleable, tensile
stickybeak (Australia and antonym: hard » to a problem or question
We solved the big mystery.
E New Zealand; informal), soft 2 clear up, crack, decipher,
Pebbles have a smooth surface, busybody, nosy parker » adjective quiet and not harsh get to the bottom of,
resolve, work out
F worn down by the sea. snoop 2 Oscar could just about hear
» verb to interfere in other the soft tapping at the door. sometimes
smooth gentle, low, mellow, muted, » adverb now and then
people’s business She quiet, subdued, dulcet,
G » adjective not rough or bumpy snooped into my private locker. mellifluous Stefan sometimes felt like
Pebbles have a smooth interfere, intrude, meddle, bouncing on the trampoline.
nose around, peek, peep, software at times, every now and
H surface, worn down by the sea. pry, spy then, every so often,
glassy, glossy, polished, noun computer programs used from time to time,
soak now and again,
I silky, sleek » verb to make something very » on a particular system now and then, occasionally,
antonym: rough The computer’s software once in a while
wet The spray soaked us. needed updating.
J smug bathe, permeate, steep, app, application, code, soon
K » adjective pleased with yourself wet, drench, saturate program » adverb in a very short time
Rory felt smug after
he scored the winning goal. I’ll see you soon.
L complacent, conceited, any minute now,
self-satisfied, superior soil 1 before long, in a minute,
» noun the surface of the earth in the near future,
M snag presently, shortly
The soil is full of nutrients antonym: later
that plants use as food.
N » noun a small problem or clay, dirt, earth, ground sophisticated 1
disadvantage The snag was » adjective having refined tastes
that I had no way to get home. soil 2
The spray soaked us. » verb to make something dirty The new restaurant was
O catch, difficulty, fashionable and sophisticated.
disadvantage, drawback, sociable The towel was soiled after cosmopolitan, cultivated,
he dried the muddy dog with it. cultured, refined, urbane
P glitch, problem, downside, dirty, foul, pollute, smear,
stumbling block sophisticated 2
» adjective advanced and
Q sneak 1 » adjective enjoying the company spatter, stain, befoul,
complicated The airport
of other people The girl was begrime, defile, sully had sophisticated eye-scanning
R » verb to go somewhere quietly sociable and liked to spend antonym: clean security equipment.
I like to sneak up on time with her friends. advanced, complex,
my brother and surprise him. friendly, gregarious, solemn complicated, elaborate,
» adjective not cheerful or intricate, refined
S creep, lurk, sidle, slip, steal, outgoing, companionable, antonym: simple
skulk, slink convivial humorous Angela’s speech
sore
T sneak 2 society 1 was solemn and thoughtful. » adjective causing pain and
earnest, grave, serious,
discomfort The cut on
U » verb to put or take something » noun the people in a particular sober, sombre, staid Stephanie’s finger was sore.
somewhere secretly inflamed, painful, raw,
I sometimes sneak an extra country or region She solid 1 sensitive, smarting, tender
comes from a traditional society. » adjective hard and firm
V banana from the fruit bowl. civilization, culture
slip, smuggle, spirit The sculpture was carved
society 2 from a block of solid ice.
W sneaky firm, hard
noun an organization for people

X » adjective doing things secretly » with the same interest or aim solid 2
or things being done secretly He signed up to the school » adjective not likely to fall down
My cat took a sneaky debating society to improve
his public speaking skills. The solid tower had stood
Y mouthful of our tuna salad. association, circle, club, for hundreds of years.
crafty, deceitful, devious, fellowship, group, guild, stable, strong, sturdy,
institute, league, substantial
Z dishonest, mean, slippery, organization, union
sly, underhand,
untrustworthy

208

sour

sorrow 1 sort 1 ursharpsotuars.te a
» noun deep sadness or regret » noun one of the different kinds so
b
The story was about a boy of something In the forest 1Tahdejelcetimvoenhtaavsitnegda»  c
who overcame sorrow and lived grew many sorts of tree.
happily ever after. brand, category, class, acidic d
grief, heartache, group, kind, make, species, e
melancholy, misery, style, type, variety, I’m acidic.
mourning, pain, regret, ilk, stamp f
sadness, unhappiness, bitter g
woe (formal) sort 2
antonym: joy » verb to arrange things into I’m a bitter h
lemon. i
sorrow 2 different kinds Jay sorted j
» noun things that cause sadness his notes and put them into tart sharp pungent
three folders. k
and regret Jim remembered arrange, categorize, I have I have I give off l
with nostalgia both the joys and classify, divide, grade, a tart a sharp a pungent m
sorrows of his time at sea. group, separate taste. flavour. n
hardship, heartache, smell. o
misfortune, trouble, sound 1 acetic p
woe (written), worry, » noun something that can be acerbic q
affliction, tribulation (formal) I’m as
antonym: joy heard The sound of thunder acetic as I’m acerbic r
rumbled in the distance. vinegar. on the s
sorry 1 din, hubbub, noise, tongue.
» adjective feeling sadness racket, tone t
antonym: silence u
or regret I’m sorry to related words: adjectives v
bother you. acoustic, sonic w
apologetic, penitent, x
regretful, remorseful, sound 2 y
repentant, » verb to produce or cause to
conscience-stricken, z
contrite, guilt-ridden, produce a noise The teacher
shamefaced sounded the bell to mark the
end of lunch.
sorry 2 blow, chime, clang, peal,
» adjective feeling sympathy for ring, set off, toll

someone Renata felt sorry sound 3
for the injured girl. » adjective healthy, or in good
moved, sympathetic
condition Everyone is safe
sorry 3 and sound, thank goodness.
» adjective in a bad condition all right, fine, fit, healthy,
in good condition, intact,
The boat was in a sorry state robust
after the storm.
deplorable, miserable, sound 4
pathetic, pitiful, poor, sad, » adjective reliable and sensible
wretched, piteous, pitiable
The teacher gave Alice
sound advice about entering
the poetry competition.
down-to-earth, good,
reasonable, reliable,
sensible, solid, valid

sour 1 antonym:

adjective having a sharp taste sweet

▶▶ SEE RIGHT The strawberry
tasted sweet.

The boat was in a sorry state
after the storm.

209

sour

A sour 2 space 3 spectator
adjective unpleasant in taste » noun a period of time » noun a person who watches

B » because no longer fresh Max and Josh received two something Spectators lined
Yuck, the milk’s gone sour. lots of good news in the space the route of the parade.
of a week. bystander, eyewitness,
C curdled, off, rancid interval, period, span, observer, onlooker,
D sour 3 time, while witness, fan, viewer,
watcher
» adjective bad-tempered and spacious Jim wanted to speak to his best
» adjective having or providing friend so he could tell her all speech
unfriendly The teacher wore about the trip. » noun a formal talk given
a lot of space The car was
E a sour expression, which meant spacious enough for seven speak to an audience He delivered
we were in trouble. people to fit in. » verb to use your voice to say his speech in three languages.
ample, broad, expansive, address, discourse, lecture,
F disagreeable, embittered, extensive, huge, large, vast, words Jim wanted to speak talk, disquisition, harangue,
jaundiced, tart, churlish, capacious, commodious, to his best friend so he could homily, oration
peevish, waspish roomy, sizable or sizeable tell her all about the trip.
articulate, comment, speed 1
G source spare 1 converse, declare, explain,
noun the place where » adjective in addition to what observe, pronounce, state, noun the rate at which
tell, affirm, assert, utter
H » something comes from is needed Liz kept a spare » something moves or happens
The source of the river pair of glasses in her bag. special 1 The Formula One drivers
extra, free, superfluous, increased their speed.
I is in the mountains. surplus, leftover, adjective more important haste, momentum, pace,
beginning, cause, supernumerary rapidity, swiftness, velocity
» or better than others of its kind
J derivation, origin, spare 2 They were celebrating The Formula One drivers increased
originator, fount, » verb to make something a special occasion – it was his their speed.
sister’s 16th birthday.
K fountainhead, wellspring available Please could exceptional, important, speed 2
L souvenir you spare us some bread? significant, unique verb to move quickly » The
afford, give, antonym: ordinary
» noun something you keep let someone have motorbike sped along the road.
special 2 career, flash, fly, gallop,
as a reminder I bought spare 3 hurry, race, run, rush, tear,
adjective relating to one person hasten
M a snow globe from the market verb to save someone from
as a souvenir. » or group in particular spin
» an unpleasant experience You will have to wear » verb to turn quickly around
N keepsake, memento, relic, The teacher told us off special gloves when you
reminder, token but spared us the full lecture. work with chemicals in a central point The wheels
let off (informal), pardon, the laboratory. span round as the bicycle
O relieve of, save from characteristic, distinctive, gathered speed.
individual, particular, pirouette, revolve, rotate,
P sparkle peculiar, specific turn, whirl
Q » verb to shine with small bright antonym: general
spirit 1
R points of light The water specify » noun the part of you that is not
S I bought a snow globe from sparkled in the sunshine.
gleam, glisten, glitter, verb to state or describe physical Leo had a strong
the market as a souvenir. shimmer, twinkle, spirit and was determined to
coruscate, scintillate » something precisely complete the race.
T space 1 To avoid disappointment, essence, life force, soul
U » noun an area that is empty please specify which size
and colour you would like
or available The garden the coat in.
has plenty of space for a slide be specific about, indicate,
name, spell out, state,
V and swings. stipulate
accommodation, capacity,
room The water sparkled
in the sunshine.
W related word: adjective spatial
X space 2
Y » noun the gap between two

things Fay squeezed into
the small space between the

Z table and chair.
blank, distance, gap,
interval

210

squabble

spirit 2 spoil 2 spread 1 a
» noun a ghost or supernatural » verb to open out or extend
verb to give someone b
being In the film, a spirit over an area He spread c
haunted the house. » everything they want the picnic blanket on the grass d
apparition, ghost, phantom, Grandpa spoils us with more for everyone to sit on. e
spectre, sprite sweets than we can eat. extend, fan out, open, f
cosset, indulge, pamper, sprawl, unfold, unfurl, g
spirit 3 coddle, mollycoddle, unroll
» noun liveliness and energy overindulge
spread 2
The young dog had so The Taj Mahal looks splendid. spoilsport » verb to put a thin layer on
much spirit. » noun a person who spoils other
animation, energy, splendid 2 a surface Melissa spread
enthusiasm, fire, force, » adjective beautiful and people’s fun I felt like icing on the cake.
vigour, zest, brio, mettle a spoilsport for not joining in apply, coat, cover, overlay,
impressive The Taj Mahal the game. plaster, smear, smother
The young dog had so much spirit. looks splendid. downer, drag, killjoy,
gorgeous, grand, imposing, misery (Britain; informal), h
spite 1 : in spite of impressive, magnificent, sourpuss (US; slang)
superb i
preposition even though spooky j
split 1 » adjective eerie and frightening
» something is the case » verb to divide into two or more Melissa spread icing on the cake. k
In spite of the power cut, The old ruin was spooky. l
Fi did her homework on time. parts The team decided to creepy (informal), eerie, spread 3 m
despite, even though, split the prize money equally frightening, ghostly, » verb to reach or affect more n
notwithstanding, among all its members. haunted, scary, o
regardless of, though diverge, fork, part, supernatural, uncanny people gradually Excitement p
separate, bifurcate, is spreading through the school q
spite 2 cleave, disunite spot 1 as the holidays draw near.
» noun a desire to hurt someone » noun a small round mark on circulate, grow, expand, r
split 2 increase, proliferate, travel s
Liam swatted the fly out » verb to have a crack or tear something Dalmatians have
of spite. a white coat with black spots. spread 4 t
ill will, malevolence, malice, Oh dear, my trousers have blemish, blot, blotch, mark, » noun the extent or growth of u
spitefulness, venom, split and there’s a gaping hole. smudge, speck
malignity, rancour burst, come apart, crack, something The spread v
rip, slit, tear of interest in the zoo brought w
spiteful new visitors each week. x
» adjective saying or doing nasty split 3 diffusion, expansion, y
» noun a crack or tear in extent, growth, increase,
things to hurt people It progression, proliferation, z
was spiteful to snigger. something I can see through upsurge
catty (informal), cruel, the split in the curtain.
malevolent, malicious, crack, fissure, rip, tear squabble 1
nasty, snide, venomous,
vindictive split 4 Dalmatians have a white coat verb to quarrel about
» noun a division between two with black spots.
splendid 1 » something trivial
» adjective very good indeed things There’s a split spot 2 My brother and sister
between those who want to go » noun a location or place squabble about who gets to sit
I’ve had a splendid time. outdoors and those who want in the front seat of the car.
cracking (Britain, Australia, to stay in and draw. It was the perfect spot argue, bicker, fall out, feud,
and New Zealand; informal), breach, breakup, for a picnic. fight, quarrel, row, wrangle
excellent, fantastic divergence, division, location, place, point,
(informal), fine, glorious, rift, schism position, scene, site
great (informal), marvellous,
superb, wonderful spoil 1 spot 3
» verb to damage or destroy » verb to see or notice

something She tried to keep something Belinda spotted
the party a secret so as not an owl in the tree.
to spoil the surprise. catch sight of, detect,
damage, destroy, harm, discern, observe, see,
impair, mar, mess up, sight, descry, espy
ruin, wreck

211

squabble

A squabble 2 stale start 1 state 1
» adjective no longer fresh » verb to begin to take place
noun a minor quarrel » We noun the condition or
We fed the stale bread School starts again
B keep having squabbles about to the ducks and ate the next week. » circumstances of something
whose turn it is to wash up. fresh bread ourselves. arise, begin, The garden was in a better
flat, old, sour, stagnant, come into being, state now that all the building
C altercation, argument, fusty, musty come into existence, work was finished.
barney (Britain, Australia, antonym: fresh commence, get under way, circumstances,
and New Zealand; informal), originate condition, plight,
standard 1 antonym: finish position, predicament,
D disagreement, dispute, shape, situation
fight, quarrel, row, spat, tiff noun a particular level start 2
» verb to begin to do something state 2
E staff » of quality or achievement » noun a country, especially
F » noun the people who work To join the club you had to Susie started to read the
play tennis to a high standard. book Judy had recommended. in political terms The
for an organization The calibre, criterion, guideline, begin, commence, embark European Union is made up of
company’s senior staff went to level, norm, quality, upon, proceed, set about a number of European states.
requirement antonym: stop country, kingdom,
G a meeting about new research. land, nation, republic,
employees, personnel, standard 2 start 3 body politic,
» adjective usual, normal, and » verb to cause something commonwealth, federation
H team, workers, workforce
correct It is standard to begin The official started state 3
I practice for schools to hold the race by firing the pistol.
a teacher-parent evening begin, create, establish, verb to say something,
J every year. get going, inaugurate
accepted, correct, (formal), initiate, instigate, » especially in a formal way
K customary, normal, institute, introduce, launch, Please state your name
L The company’s senior staff went orthodox, regular, usual open, pioneer, set in and age.
M to a meeting about new research. motion, set up affirm, articulate, assert,
N stage 1 standards antonym: stop declare, express, say,
» plural noun principles of specify, aver, expound,
» noun a part of a process propound
Cycling is the second stage behaviour The head
teacher has high standards. statement
O of a triathlon race. ethics, ideals, morals,
lap, period, phase, principles, rules, scruples, noun a short written or spoken
values
P point, step » piece giving information
Q stage 2 star The school released a
» noun a famous person statement expressing delight
» verb to organize something over its pupils’ achievements.
School pupils have staged The film stars walked account, announcement,
down the red carpet. bulletin, declaration,
R a fun run to help raise money celebrity, idol, explanation, proclamation,
for a new sports centre. luminary (literary) report, testimony

S arrange, engineer, mount, The official started the race status
orchestrate, organize by firing the pistol. » noun a person’s social position

T stain 1 The film stars walked down start 4 Felix was congratulated
U » noun a mark on something the red carpet. » noun the beginning of on his new status as captain.
position, prestige, rank,
His T-shirt was covered stare something It was the standing
in grass stains. » verb to look at something start of a new era in the
country’s history. Felix was congratulated on his new
V blot, mark, spot for a long time Ed stared beginning, birth, status as captain.
out of the window at the rain. commencement, dawn,
stain 2 gaze, look, gawp, foundation, inauguration,
goggle, ogle inception (formal), initiation,
W » verb to make a mark on onset, opening, outset
something The spilt drink antonym: finish

X stained the carpet.
dirty, mark, soil, spot,

Y discolour, smirch

Z

212

stick

stay steal 2 stick 1 a
» verb to remain somewhere » noun a long, thin piece of wood
verb to move somewhere b
Would you like to stay William threw a stick c
for dinner? » quietly and secretly for the dog to fetch.
hang around (informal), Greg stole out of the class bat, cane, mace, pole, rod,
linger, loiter, remain, without the teacher noticing. truncheon, twig, wand
tarry, wait creep, slip, sneak, tiptoe

steadfast The surfers steadied themselves steep 1 stick 2 d
» adjective refusing to change or on the surf boards. » adjective rising sharply and » verb to thrust something e

give up Jill was a steadfast steady 3 abruptly The steep hill somewhere Christine stuck f
supporter of animal rights and was difficult to climb. her arm through the fence g
went on every march. verb to prevent something from sheer, vertical to pick flowers from
constant, faithful, firm, antonym: gradual the other side.
immovable, resolute, » shaking or wobbling insert, jab, poke, push, put,
staunch, steady, The surfers steadied steep 2 ram, shove, stuff, thrust
unshakeable themselves on the surf boards. » adjective larger than is
brace, secure, stabilize, Christine stuck her arm through h
steady 1 support reasonable We noticed the fence to pick flowers from the i
» adjective continuing without a steep rise in the price other side. j
steal 1 of bananas.
interruptions There was » verb to take something without excessive, extortionate, stick 3 k
a steady rise in temperature high, unreasonable, l
throughout the morning. permission Did Elsa steal exorbitant, overpriced verb to attach m
consistent, constant, that apple from the fruit bowl n
continuous, even, nonstop, or did she ask permission? steep 3 ▼ SEE BELOW
regular, uninterrupted appropriate, nick (Britain, » verb to soak something in a o
Australia, and New Zealand; p
steady 2 slang), pilfer, pinch (informal), liquid Steep the vegetables
» adjective not shaky or wobbling swipe (slang), take, in water to keep them fresh.
embezzle, filch, immerse, soak, marinate
Tom has a steady hand misappropriate,
and can draw very neatly. purloin, thieve sterile
firm, secure, stable » adjective free from germs

stick Ted bandaged the cut
with a sterile dressing.
» 3 verb to attach antiseptic, germ-free,
Stick the pictures sterilized
into your scrapbook.
attachAttach it with tape. fix q

Fix the picture r
to the page. s

t
u

bond glue v
w
pBaopnedrtshuerftawcoes. Glue the picture down. x
y
paste
z
Paste the picture in.

213

stick

A stick 4 stock 5 stomach
B » verb to become attached » verb to keep a supply of goods » noun the front part of the body

Mud was stuck to the to sell The shop stocks a around the waist David’s
bottom of my trainers. wide range of paint and other T-shirt was too short and
artists’ materials. showed his stomach.
C adhere, bond, cling, fuse deal in, sell, supply, trade in belly, gut, paunch,
D stick 5 tummy (informal)
The water on the lake was still. stock 6
» verb to jam or become jammed » adjective commonly used stop 1
The cat was stuck in her cat still
» adjective not moving Dad’s stock answer to every verb to cease doing something
E flap but we finally got her out. question was “Ask your mother”.
catch, jam, lodge, snag The water on the lake hackneyed, overused, ▶▶ SEE RIGHT
was still. routine, standard,
F sticky calm, inert, motionless, typical, usual stop 2
G » adjective covered with a stationary, tranquil » verb to prevent something
stockpile 1
substance that sticks to other stink 1 » verb to store large quantities The sudden downpour
things The bottom of » verb to smell very bad stopped the barbecue.
My neighbour stockpiled tins arrest, check, prevent,
H Vi’s shoe was sticky with My breath stinks of garlic. of food when he heard there forestall, nip something
chewing gum. pong (Britain and Australia; was a blizzard on the way. in the bud
informal), reek accumulate, amass,
I adhesive, tacky, glutinous, collect, gather, hoard, save, stop 3
viscid, viscous stash (informal), store up » verb to come to an end

J stink 2 stockpile 2 Elsie hoped that the rain
» noun a very bad smell » noun a large store of something would stop so she could ride
K her new bike outside.
L The stink of smelly cheese Chris and Bill used the cease, come to an end,
M filled the house. planks from the stockpile conclude, end, finish, halt
N pong (Britain and Australia; outside to make the new shed. antonym: start
O informal), stench, fetor, cache, hoard, reserve,
P The bottom of Vi’s shoe was sticky malodour stash (informal), stock, store store 1
» noun a supply kept for future
with chewing gum. stock 1
» noun the total amount of goods use The chipmunk added
Q stiff 1 to its store of nuts.
R » adjective firm and not easily for sale in a shop The shop cache, fund, hoard, reserve,
counted how much stock it had reservoir, stock, stockpile,
bent The cardboard in its storeroom. supply
was stiff. goods, merchandise (formal)
The chipmunk added to its store
S firm, hard, rigid, solid, taut stock 2 of nuts.
antonym: limp » noun a supply of something
store 2
T stiff 2 The shop had a large stock » noun a place where things
U » adjective not friendly or relaxed of electrical equipment.
reserve, reservoir, are kept The farmer took
The lady was stiff and stockpile, store, supply the harvested wheat to the
uncomfortable. grain store.
stock 3 Chris and Bill used the planks depot, storeroom,
V cold, forced, formal, from the stockpile outside warehouse, depository,
stilted, unnatural, wooden, noun shares bought in to make the new shed. repository, storehouse
constrained, prim,
» an investment company stocky
W standoffish The reporter said stocks in » adjective short but solid-looking
X stiff 3 the company were increasing.
Y » adjective difficult or severe bonds, investments, shares The pygmy hippo is small
but stocky.
The stiff training was not stock 4 chunky, solid, sturdy,
for the faint hearted. » noun an animal or person’s stubby, thickset

Z arduous, difficult, exacting, ancestors My family is
formidable, hard, rigorous, of European stock.
tough ancestry, descent,
extraction, lineage,
origin, parentage

214

store

stop a

» 1 verb to cease doing something ocuutt b
He stopped playing the piano c
when the doorbell rang. Cut out that racket!
d
cease e

The baby ceased crying when f
she was fed. g

contin h
whKienndltyhedehseiastdfirso tmalgkiignggl.ingdesist i
dis j

Thhiesyfadivsocurointteinpueends.selling k
ue l
m
The c n
end rish. quit o
p
onductor ended with a fou She quit playing the fute. q

startantonym: r
s
Turn the key to start the car.
t
u
v
w
x
y

z

215

store

A story store 3 strain 1
B » verb to keep something for » noun worry and nervous

C » noun a tale told or written to entertain people future use The photos tension The strain that
D We read a funny story together. are stored on your computer. Nadine had felt during her
hoard, keep, save, exams was now gone.
E Theaccount book included a true account of Scott’s expedition to the Antarctic. stash (informal), stockpile anxiety, pressure, stress,
Theanecdote actor had a store of entertaining anecdotes about his life in the theatre. tension
F Thelegend teacher told us the legend of King Arthur. story
Thenarrative narrative moved swiftly from one event to the next in the heroine’s life. strain 2
G Mytale favourite fairy tale is Hansel and Gretel. noun a tale told or written to
Myyarn uncle told us an extraordinary yarn about his days as a student. entertain people verb to make something

◀◀ SEE LEFT » do more than it is able to do
The men strained to lift
straight 1 the bench.
» adjective upright or level, overwork, tax, overexert,
overtax, push to the limit
not curved Hold your arms
H straight out to the side.
erect, even, level,
I perpendicular, upright
antonym: crooked

J

K The men strained to lift the bench.

L strange 1
» adjective unusual or
M
unexpected It was strange
N Hold your arms straight out to bump into my old classmate.
to the side. abnormal, bizarre, curious,
O extraordinary, funny, odd,
straight 2 peculiar, queer, uncommon,
P » adjective honest, frank, weird, out-of-the-way,
Q outré, unaccountable
and direct Andy’s answer
R was straight and to the point. strange 2
blunt, candid, forthright, » adjective new or unfamiliar
S frank, honest, outright,
plain, point-blank We found it exciting to be
T on holiday in a strange country.
straightforward 1 alien, exotic, foreign, new,
U » adjective easy and involving novel, unfamiliar

V no problems The question strength 1
seemed straightforward. » noun physical energy and
W basic, easy, elementary,
X routine, simple, power The bear pushed
uncomplicated over a tree in an astonishing
Y antonym: complicated display of strength.
brawn, might, muscle,
Z straightforward 2 stamina, brawniness,
» adjective honest, open, lustiness, sinew
antonym: weakness
and frank I liked his
straightforward manner. strength 2
candid, direct, forthright, » noun the degree of intensity
frank, honest, open, plain,
straight The cheering and loud
antonym: devious applause revealed the strength
of feeling in the room.
216 force, intensity, potency,
power, vehemence, vigour
antonym: weakness

study

strengthen 1 stretch 2 strong 1 The museum building is a
» verb to give something more » verb to reach out with part of » adjective having powerful an imposing structure.
b
power The lateness your body Megan stretched muscles Gorillas are structure 2 c
of the trains strengthens out her hand. terrifically strong. » noun something that has been
the case for an improved extend, reach, straighten athletic, brawny, burly, d
railway system. antonym: bend muscular, powerful, built The museum building e
encourage, fortify, harden, strapping, well-built is an imposing structure.
toughen, hearten, stretch 3 antonym: weak building, construction, f
invigorate » noun an area of land or water edifice g
antonym: weaken strong 2
We travelled along a smooth struggle 1 h
strengthen 2 stretch of road. adjective able to withstand » verb to try hard to do i
» verb to support the structure area, expanse, extent, j
sweep, tract » rough treatment something We struggled
of something Dad Strong armour kept the up to the top of the mountain. k
strengthened the treehouse knight safe during battle. strain, strive, toil, work l
with some timber beams. durable, hard-wearing, m
bolster, brace, fortify, heavy-duty, reinforced, struggle 2 n
reinforce, support sturdy, substantial, tough, » noun something that is hard to o
antonym: weaken well-built p
antonym: fragile achieve The marathon was a q
stress 1 struggle, but Josh felt proud
» noun worry and nervous We travelled along a smooth when he crossed the finish line. r
stretch of road. effort, labour, toil, work s
tension Louis didn’t like the
stress that came with taking stretch 4 stubborn t
tests every term. » noun a period of time u
anxiety, hassle (informal), adjective determined not v
pressure, strain, tension, My father often worked w
worry for eight-hour stretches. » to change or give in x
period, run, space, spell, Helen’s stubborn refusal y
stress 2 stint, term, time to give up is an inspiration.
» verb to emphasize something dogged, inflexible, z
strict 1 Strong armour kept the knight safe obstinate, tenacious, wilful,
The teacher stressed the during battle. intractable, obdurate,
importance of doing your best. adjective very firm in recalcitrant, refractory
accentuate, emphasize, strong 3
repeat, underline, belabour, » demanding obedience » adjective great in degree or stuck-up
dwell on, point up, The teacher was strict and » adjective (informal) arrogant
underscore we didn’t dare talk in class. intensity Caroline had a
authoritarian, firm, rigid, strong following of supporters. and conceited She was
stretch 1 rigorous, stern, stringent acute, ardent, deep, famous but not stuck-up.
» verb to extend over an area or fervent, fierce, intense, arrogant, conceited,
strict 2 keen, passionate, profound, disdainful, haughty,
time The boy stretched the » adjective precise and accurate vehement, violent, zealous proud, snobbish
elastic to shoot the catapult. antonym: faint
continue, cover, extend, The referee had a strict study 1
go on, hang, last, reach, interpretation of the rules. structure 1 » verb to spend time learning
spread accurate, exact,
meticulous, particular, noun the way something is about something Billy
The boy stretched the elastic precise, true enjoyed studying history.
to shoot the catapult. » made or organized learn, read up,
strive The science class learned swot (Britain, Australia, and
all about the structure of New Zealand; informal)
verb to make a great effort a plant.
arrangement, construction,
» to achieve something design, make-up,
Mason strives to keep organization, configuration,
himself fit by running every day. conformation
attempt, do your best,
do your utmost,
endeavour (formal),
make an effort, seek, try

217

study

A stuff 1 stuffy 1 stupidity
adjective formal and old-
fashioned At first I found
Aunty Jane rather stuffy, but we
noun a substance or group noun lack of intelligence
or good judgment
»  » of things “That’s my stuff,”
Robert wondered at the
B » Luke said, pointing to a bag.
C apparatus, belongings, soon became great friends. bird’s stupidity as it flew into
equipment, gear, kit, dull, formal, old-fashioned, the window for the third time.

material, substance, tackle, staid, strait-laced, fusty, absurdity, folly, foolishness,

D things, paraphernalia, old-fogeyish, priggish, inanity, silliness, asininity,
trappings stodgy fatuity, imbecility,

E The tourists studied the map to stuff 2 stuffy 2 obtuseness
work out their best route. » adjective not containing enough
verb to push something sturdy
F study 2 fresh air It was hot and » adjective strong and unlikely
G » verb to look at something » somewhere quickly and roughly stuffy in the classroom as
Martin stuffed the paper into the windows wouldn’t open. to be damaged My sturdy
carefully The tourists the recycling bin. close, heavy, muggy, boots protect the feet during
studied the map to work cram, force, jam, push, oppressive, stale, stifling, long hiking trips.
ram, shove, squeeze, thrust fetid, sultry, unventilated durable, hardy, robust,
H out their best route. solid, substantial, stout,
contemplate, examine, stuff 3 stupid strong, well-built
» verb to fill something with a » adjective lacking intelligence antonym: fragile
I pore over, peruse,
scrutinize substance or objects The or good judgment Mum told
jar was stuffed with sweets. me off for making stupid jokes
J study 3 cram, fill, load, pack while she was talking to the
K » noun the activity of learning new neighbours.
absurd, daft (informal),
about a subject Mary threw dim, foolish, idiotic, inane,
herself into the study of ancient obtuse, asinine, crass,
fatuous
L Egypt as she was going to see antonym: clever
the pyramids.
lessons, research, school

M work, swotting (Britain,
Australia, and New Zealand;

N informal) My sturdy boots protect the feet

RQOP successThe jar was stuffed with sweets. during long hiking trips.

» 2 noun a person or thing achieving popularity or greatness
You’re a school success!

S sensation celebrity hit
T
Stanley was an online
U hit with his blog.

V

W The children were hailed as celebrities
X Rory read about after appearing on TV.
Y the latest sporting

sensation in the
newspaper.

Z

218

success

style 1 subject 2 Poisonous substances are labelled subtract a
with a warning sticker. » verb to take one number away
noun the way in which verb to make someone b
substance from another Subtracting c
» something is done » experience something » noun a solid, powder, liquid, 3 from 5 leaves 2.
Mr Preston’s style of Chris was subjected to deduct, take away, d
teaching made every subject continual questions from or gas Poisonous substances take from e
seem interesting. his classmates, who were are labelled with a warning antonym: add
approach, manner, method, eager to hear more detail. sticker. f
mode, technique, way expose, put through, element, material, stuff succeed g
submit » verb to achieve the result
style 2 substitute 1 h
» noun smartness and elegance submit 1 » verb to use one thing in place you intend Lina succeeded i
as a professional musician. j
Leonie has such style, verb to accept or agree to of another You can be successful, do well,
especially when she wears substitute honey for sugar. flourish, make it (informal), k
that evening dress. » something unwillingly exchange, interchange, prosper, thrive, triumph, l
chic, elegance, flair, I eventually submitted to my replace, swap, switch work m
sophistication, taste, sister’s nagging to borrow antonym: fail n
élan, panache, savoir-faire my dress, even though substitute 2 o
I knew she’d get it dirty. success 1 p
subdue bow, capitulate, comply, noun someone or something q
» verb to bring under control give in, surrender, yield noun the achievement
antonym: resist » used in place of another
by force Police were called Nylon is sometimes used » of a goal, fame, or wealth
in to subdue the protesters. submit 2 as a substitute for silk. Liv’s success was
crush, defeat, overcome, deputy, proxy, replacement, unparalleled: no one had
overpower, quell, vanquish verb to formally present representative, surrogate, more awards than her.
locum, makeshift, stopgap celebrity, eminence, fame,
subject 1 » a document or proposal prosperity, triumph, victory,
» noun the thing or person being Jeff submitted his short wealth, ascendancy (formal)
story for publication in the antonym: failure
discussed Maryam was able school magazine.
to talk about a range of hand in, present, propose, success 2
subjects, from pet care to put forward, send in, table,
philosophy and painting. tender noun a person or thing
issue, matter, object, point, antonym: withdraw achieving popularity or
question, theme, topic greatness

▼ SEE BELOW

She’s a star! triumph r
s
star The posters declared
the film a triumph. t
winner u

Nathan was a real winner, v
excelling in every sport he tried. w
x
y

z

219

successful

A successful suggestion 1 sum up supervise
adjective having achieved » noun an idea mentioned as » verb to describe briefly » verb to oversee a person

B » what you intended to do a possibility May I offer a Rudi summed up his week or activity Wendy supervised
Carol was a highly suggestion for what to do next? in one word: “Brilliant”. more than 400 volunteers.
plan, proposal, proposition, recapitulate, summarize be in charge of, direct,
C successful artist. recommendation handle, keep an eye on,
flourishing, lucrative, superb look after, manage,
profitable, rewarding, suggestion 2 » adjective very good indeed oversee, run, preside over,
» noun a slight indication of superintend
D thriving, top The pilot had a superb
something There was a flight with a perfect landing. supplement 1
sudden suggestion of a smile on Carl’s breathtaking, excellent, » verb to add to something
face as they waited for the exquisite, magnificent,
E » adjective happening quickly winner to be announced. marvellous, outstanding, to improve it Mum
and unexpectedly The hint, indication, insinuation, splendid, superior, supplemented the main
intimation, trace unrivalled, wonderful, course with a salad.
F sudden opening of the jack-in- superlative add to, augment,
the-box gave us all a shock. suit complement, reinforce,
» verb to be acceptable superior 1 top up
G abrupt, hasty, quick, swift, » adjective better than other
unexpected The house suits our needs. Mum supplemented the main
be acceptable to, do, similar things The new course with a salad.
H antonym: gradual please, satisfy software is superior to the
old – much faster and with supplement 2
I suitable more functions.
better, choice, de luxe, noun something added to
J adjective right or acceptable exceptional, first-rate,
surpassing, unrivalled »so mThetehminaggealzsiene was
K » for a particular purpose antonym: inferior
Rita’s slip-on sandals were a free supplement
L The sudden opening of the not suitable for running in. superior 2 with the newspaper.
M jack-in-the-box gave us all a shock. acceptable, appropriate, » adjective showing pride and addition, appendix,
N suffer apt, fit, fitting, proper, right, complement, extra
apposite, befitting, self-importance The wealthy
verb to be affected by pain pertinent, seemly people in the mansion felt supplies
antonym: unsuitable superior to their neighbours.
O » or something unpleasant condescending, disdainful, plural noun food or equipment
Milo suffered an injury while sulky haughty, lofty, patronizing,
playing ice hockey. » adjective showing annoyance by snobbish, stuck-up » for a particular purpose
(informal), supercilious Leila carried her supplies
P bear, endure, experience, being silent and moody Kim for the hike in a rucksack.
go through, sustain, was sulky because she hadn’t superior 3 equipment, provisions,
been invited to the party. rations, stores
Q undergo huffy, moody, petulant, noun a person in a higher
resentful, sullen supply 1
sufficient » position than you » verb to provide someone with
Kim was sulky because she hadn’t The trainee had to report
R » adjective being enough for a been invited to the party. to his superior. something The company
purpose Rick had sufficient big cheese (informal), will supply all the equipment
boss (informal), chief, for the scuba dive.
S time to write a good essay. controller, director, equip, furnish, give,
adequate, ample, enough employer, head, leader, provide, endow, purvey
antonym: insufficient manager, senior, supervisor
antonym: inferior
T suggest 1
verb to mention something as a summary The trainee had to report
to his superior.
U » possibility or recommendation noun a short account of
Clive suggested going out for
» something’s main points
V ice cream. Peter ended his essay with
advise, advocate, propose, a three-point summary.
outline, review, rundown,
W recommend summing-up, synopsis,
abridgment, digest, précis,
X suggest 2 recapitulation, résumé
Y » verb to hint that something is

the case The girls’ smiling
faces suggested they had done

Z well in the test.
hint, imply, indicate,
insinuate, intimate

220

surround

supply 2 suppress 2 surprise 2 a
» noun an amount of something
verb to stop yourself from noun the feeling caused b
available for use Our fridge c
contained a plentiful supply of » expressing a feeling or reaction » by something unexpected
food for the week. Vikram suppressed a cry He let out a gasp of surprise. d
cache, fund, hoard, reserve, by turning it into a cough. amazement, astonishment, e
stock, stockpile, store conceal, contain, curb, incredulity, wonder
repress, restrain, smother, f
support 1 stifle surprise 3 g
» verb to agree with someone’s » verb to give someone a feeling
The supporters wore team colours supreme h
ideas or aims I support to cheer on their team. » adjective of the highest degree of surprise I was surprised i
your idea for creating more by how many people came j
bicycle lanes. supporter or rank The prime minister to the party.
back, champion, defend, has supreme authority over amaze, astonish, astound, k
promote, second, side with, noun a person who agrees the country. jolt, stagger, stun, l
uphold chief, foremost, greatest, take aback, flabbergast, m
antonym: oppose » with or helps someone highest, leading, nonplus n
The supporters wore team paramount, pre-eminent, o
support 2 colours to cheer on their team. principal, top, ultimate surrender 1 p
» verb to help someone in adherent, advocate, ally, » verb to agree that the other q
champion, fan, follower, sure 1
difficulties You should sponsor, patron, » adjective having no doubts side has won I surrender! r
support your friends when protagonist You have won the game. s
they are feeling down. Jonathan was sure that he capitulate, give in, submit,
assist, encourage, help suppose was right. succumb, yield t
» verb to think that something is certain, clear, convinced, u
support 3 definite, positive, satisfied surrender 2 v
» verb to hold something up from probably the case I suppose antonym: unsure w
Jon will have an apple as usual. verb to give something up x
underneath The pillars assume, believe, expect, sure 2 y
support the cathedral roof. guess, imagine, presume, » adjective reliable or definite » to someone else
bolster, brace, hold up, think, conjecture, surmise Marcus surrendered the ball z
prop up, reinforce, (formal) The dark clouds were a sure to the puppy.
buttress, shore up sign that it was going to rain. cede, give up, relinquish,
supposed 1 definite, dependable, renounce, yield
The pillars support the foolproof, infallible, reliable,
cathedral roof. adjective planned, expected, trustworthy, undeniable surrender 3

support 4 » or required to do something surprise 1 noun a situation in which
» noun an object that holds You’re supposed to ride your » noun something unexpected
bike in the bicycle lane rather » one side gives in to the other
something up The metal than on the footpath. Danny’s gift to the teacher The blue team waved a
supports will hold up the tent. expected, meant, obliged, came as a delightful surprise. white flag in surrender.
brace, foundation, pillar, required bombshell, revelation, capitulation, submission
post, prop, abutment, shock, start
stanchion The blue team waved a white flag
supposed 2 in surrender.

adjective generally believed or surround
» verb to be all around a person
» thought to be the case
What is it that Melissa is or thing The calf was
supposed to have said? surrounded by cows.
alleged, assumed, believed, encircle, enclose,
meant, presumed, reputed, encompass, envelop,
rumoured hem in

suppress 1 Danny’s gift to the teacher came
» verb to prevent people from as a delightful surprise.

doing something The
teachers aimed to suppress
bullying among the students.
crack down on (informal),
crush, quash, quell,
stamp out, stop

221

surroundings

A suspicion 1 swerve
» noun a feeling of mistrust
B verb to change direction
Having been bitten before,
C Cara regarded the parrot » suddenly to avoid hitting
with suspicion.
D distrust, doubt, misgiving, something The girl on the
mistrust, scepticism, qualm bike swerved around the trees.
E swing, turn, veer
suspicion 2 After her dinner, Kate loves
F » noun a feeling something is to eat something sweet. swift
» adjective happening or moving
G true I have a suspicion this sweet 1
route is the long way round. » adjective containing a lot of very quickly The bird was
H The farm’s surroundings were hunch, idea, impression swift in flight.
stunning. sugar After her dinner, Kate brisk, express, fast,
I surroundings suspicious 1 loves to eat something sweet. hurried, prompt, quick,
plural noun the area and cloying, sugary, sweetened rapid, speedy
adjective feeling distrustful antonym: sour antonym: slow
J environment around a person
» of someone or something The bird was swift in flight.
» or place The farm’s Jez was highly suspicious
as the fox approached the symbol
K surroundings were stunning. chicken coop.
background, environment, apprehensive, distrustful, noun a design or idea used
doubtful, sceptical, wary to represent something
L location, neighbourhood,
setting, environs, milieu sweet 2 ▶▶ SEE RIGHT
» adjective having a pleasant
M survive sympathy
N » verb to live or exist in spite of smell The air was filled
with the sweet smell of roses. noun kindness and
difficulties We survived aromatic, fragrant, understanding towards
the intense heat by sitting perfumed, sweet-smelling
» someone in trouble
O in an air-conditioned café. Jez was highly suspicious as the sweet 3 When Alan’s friend broke
endure, last, live, outlive, fox approached the chicken coop. » adjective pleasant-sounding his leg, he looked after him
with great sympathy.
P pull through suspicious 2 and tuneful The audience compassion, empathy, pity,
Q suspect 1 » adjective causing feelings of listened to the sweet sound understanding
of the children singing.
» verb to think something distrust Brenda wondered harmonious, mellow, system
why the lights were off – there melodious, musical,
is likely I suspect we’ll was something suspicious tuneful, dulcet noun an organized way of doing
going on.
R have more to do after lunch. dodgy (Britain, Australia, and sweet 4 » or arranging something
believe, feel, guess, New Zealand; informal), » noun a sweet-tasting thing The new system is much
doubtful, dubious, more efficient than the old
S suppose fishy (informal), funny, such as a toffee We were way of doing things.
questionable, each allowed some sweets arrangement, method,
suspect 2 shady (informal), suspect as a treat. procedure, routine,
bonbon, candy (US), structure, technique,
T » verb to have doubts about confectionery, sweetie methodology,
something Troy suspected modus operandi
something was wrong when swap
» verb to replace one thing for
U he saw Dylan had walked away.
V distrust, doubt, mistrust another The girls decided
to swap coats for the day.
suspect 3 barter, exchange,
interchange, switch, trade
W » adjective not to be trusted
Peter’s claims to be related We were each allowed some
sweets as a treat.
X to royalty were highly suspect.
dodgy (Britain, Australia, and

Y New Zealand; informal),
doubtful, dubious, fishy

Z (informal), questionable,
suspicious

222

markA namofeidbeandtgifeiciastiaonm.ark system a
fgure
gn b
ts beak stands for peace. c
Companies ustokenA ring is a token of love2 × 4 = 8 uses signs for m
d
siand marriage. e

The fgure of a dove with an olive branch in i ultiplication and equals.logof
g
e logos to make them inst
antly recognizable. h
embleA bald eagle is the Americ i
symbol man national emblem. j

» noun a design or idea used to represent something rep resentati on k
The chemical symbol for the element oxygen is O. l
emoticon m
n
He signed is o
In the reEpgryepsteianntahtiioenrofgolyrpthhiecsle,tatelrio“nL”. p
q
on. 223
off with a happy-face emotic r
s

t
u
v
w
x
y

z

tact

A talent tangle 2
» noun a natural ability
B verb to twist together or
Jess had a talent for ballet.
C ability, aptitude, capacity, » catch someone or something
flair, genius, gift, knack The kite became tangled
D in the tree’s branches.
take care of 1 talk 1 catch, jumble, knot, twist
E » verb to look after someone » verb to say things
task
F tact or something Abigail was My parents talked about the » noun a job that you have to do
G » noun the ability not to offend asked to take care of the baby holiday they were planning.
for the day. chat, converse, natter, Emily had the task of
people The teacher corrected care for, look after, mind, ramble, gossip, say, walking the dog.
nurse, protect, tend, watch state, mention assignment, chore, duty,
H Ed’s mistakes with great tact. antonym: neglect job, mission, undertaking
delicacy, diplomacy, talk 2
discretion, sensitivity » noun a conversation taste 1
» noun the flavour of something
I tactful The students had a long
J » adjective careful not to offend talk about the new teacher. I like the taste of fresh
chat, chatter, conversation strawberries.
Jon’s questions were always flavour, tang
talk 3
K tactfully worded. » noun an informal speech taste 2
diplomatic, discreet, » noun a small amount of food
sensitive The visitor gave a talk
about volunteering for charity. or drink The chef had a
L antonym: tactless address, discourse, lecture, taste of the sauce before it
sermon, speech, was served.
take 1 disquisition, oration bite, mouthful, sip

M » verb to require something Abigail was asked to take care of talkative The chef had a taste of the sauce
My sister takes three the baby for the day. » adjective talking a lot before it was served.

N hours to get ready. take care of 2 The boy was so talkative; taste 3
demand, require, need » verb to deal with a problem, he never stopped! » noun a liking for something
chatty, communicative,
O take 2 task, or situation Darcy took long-winded My Aunt Flo has a real
P » verb to carry something care of tidying the house. taste for adventure.
attend to, cope with, tall appetite, fondness, liking,
I’ll take your bag for you. deal with, handle, manage, penchant (formal), partiality,
see to adjective higher than average predilection
Q bear (formal), bring, carry,
convey (formal), ferry, fetch, take in 1 ▶▶ SEE RIGHT tasteless 1
transport » verb to deceive someone » adjective having little flavour
tangle 1
R I was taken in by the girl The vegetables were
S at the market; the apples she noun a mass of long things overcooked and tasteless.
sold me were old and nasty. bland, insipid
T con (informal), deceive, » knotted together antonym: tasty
U dupe, fool, mislead, trick There was a tangle of wires
behind the television. tasteless 2
V jumble, knot, mass, mat, » adjective vulgar and unattractive
muddle, web
W I’ll take your bag for you. Decorating your bathroom
X take 3 take in 2 There was a tangle of wires gold is rather tasteless.
Y » verb to lead someone » verb to understand something behind the television. flashy, garish, gaudy, tacky
(informal), tawdry, vulgar
somewhere She took Tara took in everything antonym: tasteful
John to the bus stop to the coach said, and her
technique soon improved.
Z make sure he didn’t get lost. absorb, appreciate,
bring, conduct (formal), assimilate, comprehend,
escort, guide, lead, usher digest, get, grasp,
understand

224

tease

tasty tall a
» adjective having a pleasant
» adjective higher than average b
flavour The soup was The skyscraper was an c
extremely tasty. extremely tall building.
appetizing, delicious, d
luscious, palatable, e
flavourful, flavoursome,
delectable, scrumptious, f
yummy g
antonym: tasteless
h
tax 1 The girls’ basketball team won the soaring i
» noun money paid to the championship again last year. j
The soaring tower
government The amount team 1 reached high into k
of tax paid by each person » noun a group of people l
was reduced this year. the sky. m
duty, excise, levy (formal), The girls’ basketball team n
tariff won the championship again high o
last year. p
tax 2 band, crew, gang, group, The walls are high. q
side, squad, troupe
verb to make heavy demands lofty r
team 2 or team up s
» on someone » verb to work together Inside, the t
The difficult jigsaw puzzle ceilings are lofty. u
taxed Norah’s patience. The teacher said we could v
drain, exhaust, sap, team up with a classmate to towering w
strain, stretch work on the project. x
collaborate, cooperate, The building is so y
join forces, link up, pair up, towering it’s making
unite, work together z
my neck ache to
The difficult jigsaw puzzle taxed tear 1 look up at it.
Norah’s patience. » noun a hole or rip in something
antonym: short
teach I found a tear in my jeans.
hole, ladder, rip, rupture, That building looks short
verb to instruct someone scratch, split by comparison.

» how to do something tear 2 lanky
Emma decided to teach the » verb to make a hole or rip in
class the rules of the game. Even the builder is tall –
coach, drill, educate, something The cat tore he’s six foot four, all
instruct, school, train, tutor a hole in the curtains. leggy and lanky.
ladder, rip, rupture, scratch,
teacher shred, split, rend, sunder
» noun someone who teaches
tear 3
something My English » verb to go somewhere in a
teacher inspired me to
become a writer. hurry Mike tore along the
coach, don, guru, road on his bike.
instructor, lecturer, charge, dart, dash, fly,
professor, tutor, race, shoot, speed, zoom,
educator, pedagogue bolt, career

tease
» verb to make fun of someone

I teased my elder sister
about her new boyfriend.
make fun of, mock,
needle (informal), taunt

225

telephone

BA » 2 adjective not carrying telephone 1
a lot of fat The thin cat
thin crept through the fence. noun a device that allows you

C » to speak to someone in another

place Will you please
answer the telephone?
cellphone, mobile,
mobile phone, phone

D telephone 2
» verb to contact a person by
E Joe was tempted to eat lots
telephone Telephone me of the cookies.
F underweight emaciated when you get home.
G call, contact, phone, tempt: be tempted by
H ring, Skype ® » verb to have an urge to do

I bony tell 1 something Joe was
J spare » verb to let someone know tempted to eat lots
of the cookies.
K lanky something Vanessa told entice, lure, seduce
L us she was expecting twins.
M scrawny scraggy inform, notify, acquaint, tend 1
apprise » verb to happen usually or often

tell 2 I tend to dress in jeans
» verb to give someone an order at the weekend.
be apt, be inclined,
The police officer told Jan be liable, be prone,
to stop driving so fast in the have a tendency
town centre.
command, direct (formal), tend 2
instruct, order, call upon, » verb to look after someone
enjoin
or something The farmer
N tended the lambs.
care for, look after, nurse,
O slight skinny take care of
P
tendency
Q » noun behaviour that happens

R The police officer told Jan to stop often Dad has a tendency
driving so fast in the town centre. to talk too fast.
S inclination, leaning,
propensity, predisposition,
proclivity, proneness

T tell 3 tender 1
» verb to judge something
U adjective showing gentle
V lean correctly I could tell
W slender by her smile that my aunt » and caring feelings
was pleased to see me. My niece is a naturally
X slim light discern, see tender and loving person.
Y affectionate, caring,
temporary compassionate, gentle,
Z » adjective lasting a short time kind, loving, sensitive,
warm
Fred took a temporary job antonym: tough
for the summer holidays.
ephemeral, fleeting, tender 2
interim, momentary, » adjective painful and sore
passing, provisional,
transient, transitory, My ribs felt tender for
impermanent, short-lived days after the fall.
antonym: permanent aching, bruised, inflamed,
painful, raw, sensitive, sore

226

thin

Al tendered his resignation after term 2 test 2 thick 2 a
being offered a new job. » noun an attempt to check or » adjective containing little water
noun a name or word b
tender 3 assess something He had The thick vegetable soup c
» for a particular thing routine eye tests. was delicious and filling.
verb to offer something such The scientific term for assessment, check, trial clotted, concentrated, d
birds is aves. condensed e
» as an apology or resignation designation, expression, texture antonym: watery
Al tendered his resignation name, word » noun the way that something f
after being offered a new job. thick 3 g
hand in, offer terms feels The rabbit’s fur has » adjective grouped closely
» plural noun conditions that have a soft, smooth texture. h
tender 4 consistency, feel together The thick i
been agreed The terms of undergrowth in the forest j
noun a proposal to provide the deal were clear. was difficult to walk through.
conditions, provisions, bristling, dense, close, k
» something at a price proviso, stipulations crowded, impenetrable l
The builders submitted a antonym: sparse m
tender for building a garden wall. terrible 1 The rabbit’s fur has a n
bid, estimate, package, » adjective serious and soft, smooth texture. thicken o
submission » verb to become thicker p
unpleasant Dan suffered theft q
tense 1 from terrible headaches. » noun the crime of stealing The fog thickened,
» adjective nervous and unable appalling, awful, making it hard to see. r
desperate, dreadful, The squirrel’s theft of the clot, condense, congeal, s
to relax Anthony felt tense frightful (old-fashioned), nuts meant there was none left set, coagulate, jell t
as he entered the hall to take horrendous, horrible, for the birds. antonym: thin u
his exam. horrid (old-fashioned), rotten robbery, stealing, thieving, v
anxious, edgy, larceny, pilfering thief w
jittery (informal), jumpy, terrible 2 » noun someone who steals x
nervous, uptight (informal) » adjective of very poor quality theory y
antonym: calm » noun an idea that explains something The security
Pat liked his haircut, but his cameras in the shop were z
tense 2 mum thought it was terrible. something The class there to deter thieves.
» adjective causing anxiety abysmal, appalling, awful, performed an experiment burglar, crook (informal),
dire, dreadful, horrible, to test the theory. mugger (informal),
There was a tense silence rotten conjecture, hypothesis, pickpocket, robber,
as the judges prepared to antonym: excellent supposition, surmise (formal) shoplifter, housebreaker,
reveal the winner. pilferer
anxious, nerve-racking, territory therefore
stressful » noun the land that a person or » adverb as a result thin 1

tense 3 country controls The map Sweets contain sugar and adjective measuring a small
» adjective having tight muscles showed the territory belonging are therefore bad for your teeth.
to each country. as a result, consequently, » distance from side to side
The doctor recommended area, country, district, for that reason, My gran cut the bread
a massage to help relax Fleur’s domain, dominion, land, hence (formal), so, thus into thin slices.
tense shoulders. province, state fine, narrow, slim
rigid, strained, taut, tight antonym: thick
antonym: relaxed The map showed the territory thick 1
belonging to each country. My gran cut the bread
term 1 adjective measuring a large into thin slices.
» noun a fixed period of time test 1
» verb to find out what something » distance from side to side thin 2
Cas took the job for a term It took Clarissa a couple
of six weeks. is like Stu went for a ride of months to finish reading adjective not carrying a lot
period, session, spell, across the lake to test the boat. the thick book. of fat
stretch, time, duration, assess, check, try, try out fat, wide
incumbency antonym: thin ◀◀ SEE LEFT

227

thin

A thought 1 throw
» noun an idea or opinion
B verb to make something move
What are your thoughts through the air
C on the subject?
idea, notion, opinion, view ▶▶ SEE RIGHT
D Mary added more water to the
E gravy and now it was too thin. thought 2 The approaching tornado posed a thug
F thin 3 » noun the activity of thinking threat to the crops. » noun a very violent person

» adjective containing a lot The girl was lost in thought threat 2 Joe may look a bit like
and didn’t hear the phone ring. » noun something that seems a thug, but he is very gentle.
of water Mary added more consideration, bandit, hooligan, tough
contemplation, likely to harm you The
G water to the gravy and now it deliberation, meditation, approaching tornado posed tidy 1
was too thin. reflection, thinking, a threat to the crops. » adjective arranged in an orderly
cogitation, introspection, hazard, menace, risk
H dilute or diluted, runny, rumination way The head teacher’s
watery, weak threaten 1 desk was always extremely tidy.
antonym: thick thoughtful 1 » verb to promise to do neat, orderly, shipshape,
» adjective quiet and serious spick-and-span
I thing something bad The teacher antonym: untidy
J » noun a physical object Sam looked thoughtful as threatened to give a detention
he tried to answer the question. if the class didn’t settle down. tidy 2
What do you call that contemplative, pensive, make threats to, menace » verb to make something neat
reflective, introspective,
K thing on the shelf? meditative, ruminative Krishnan tidied his room.
article, object spruce up, straighten
threaten 2 antonym: mess up
L things » verb to be likely to cause harm
M » plural noun someone’s clothes tie 1
The new supermarket » verb to fasten something
or belongings Mum looked threatened to bring more
in despair at Peter's things traffic to the area. Mel tied her shoelaces.
endanger, jeopardize, bind, fasten, knot, lash,
N lying on the bedroom floor. put at risk, put in jeopardy rope, secure, tether, truss
belongings, effects, gear, antonym: untie
possessions, stuff, Sam looked thoughtful as thrifty
he tried to answer the question. » adjective careful not to waste Mel tied her shoelaces.
O chattels, gear, wares
thoughtful 2 money or resources Kirsty tie 2
think 1 » adjective showing consideration was thrifty with money and » verb to have the same score
always found the best bargains.
P » verb to consider something for others Liam was a careful, economical, The two teams tied
Chris sat down to think thoughtful and caring man. frugal, prudent in the semi-final.
attentive, caring, be level, draw
Q about what she should do. considerate, kind, thrill 1
consider, contemplate, solicitous, unselfish » noun a feeling of excitement tie 3
antonym: thoughtless » noun a connection with
R deliberate, meditate, mull The children enjoyed
over, muse (literary), ponder, thoughtless the thrill of waking up on something My family has
» adjective showing a lack of Christmas morning. close ties to the village.
S reflect, cogitate, ruminate high (informal), kick (informal) affiliation, affinity, bond,
consideration Ava was connection, relationship
think 2 thoughtless and always rang thrill 2
very early in the morning. » verb to cause a feeling of
T » verb to believe something insensitive, tactless,
I think he goes to the same inconsiderate, undiplomatic excitement I was thrilled
school as me. antonym: thoughtful to see everyone at the party.
excite, give a kick (informal)
U believe, consider, threat 1
V deem (formal), hold, » noun a statement that someone thrive
» verb to be successful
imagine, judge, reckon will harm you David said
he was going to tell the teacher, The children are thriving
W thorough but it was just an empty threat. at their new school and
X » adjective careful and complete menace, getting top marks.
threatening remark do well, flourish, prosper
The vet gave the guinea pig
a thorough examination.

Y complete, comprehensive,
exhaustive, full, intensive,

Z meticulous, painstaking,
scrupulous, all-embracing,
in-depth

228

tired

tight 1 tilt 1 The timid kitten hid from us. tire a
» adjective fitting closely » verb to raise one end of » verb to use a lot of energy
timid b
My shoes are too tight something Leonard tilted » adjective lacking courage or You’ll tire yourself out in no c
and squash my toes. his chair back on two legs. time if you keep bouncing on
constricted, cramped, snug incline, lean, slant, confidence The timid the trampoline. d
antonym: loose slope, tip kitten hid from us. drain, exhaust, fatigue, e
bashful, cowardly, nervous, enervate, wear out, weary
tight 2 tilt 2 shy, faint-hearted f
» adjective firmly fastened noun a raised position » The antonym: bold tired g
» adjective having little energy
There was a tight knot tilt of the boat on the choppy tiny h
in the string. sea made Max feel nauseous. » adjective very small We I feel tired after my long day. i
firm, secure angle, gradient, incline, drained, drowsy, j
slant, slope, camber, found a tiny frog in the garden. exhausted, fatigued, sleepy,
There was a tight knot list, pitch diminutive, microscopic, weary, worn out k
in the string. miniature, minute, l
time 1 negligible, wee (Scotland), I feel tired after my long day. m
tight 3 » noun a particular period We infinitesimal, Lilliputian n
» adjective not slack or relaxed antonym: huge o
enjoyed our time on holiday. p
Pull the string tight. interval, period, spell, q
rigid, taut, tense stretch, while
antonym: slack r
time 2 s
» verb to plan when something t
u
will happen We timed our v
visit to coincide with the w
school holidays. x
schedule, set y

throw pitch cast» verb to make something movehedthHeebaclalsttotthheHebebaasllltuttenorg.thtHheeegrbcoahululncdiHkn.eteodlttohhbeebdebidastltlahniencebt.haell (informal) z

through the air He went He pitc bucket.
high in
slingchulcokbflingto throw the ball. the air.

He fung the ball across the feld.

He hurled the ball towards the felder. hurl

He tossed the ball to his little brother. toss

229

together

A tolerate 1 total 1
B » verb to accept something you » noun several things added
C
D disagree with Jen tolerates together The school has
E her children’s laziness as long a total of 1,776 pupils.
F as they get their chores done. aggregate, sum, whole
accept, put up with
We went on long bicycle total 2
tolerate 2 » adjective complete in all its
G rides together. » verb to accept something
parts There was total
together 1 unpleasant Henry tolerated mayhem after the animals
his brother’s messiness in the escaped from the zoo.
H » adverb with other people room they shared. absolute, complete,
We went on long bicycle bear, endure, stand outright, unconditional,
undivided, unmitigated,
I rides together. tomb I waited at the top of the cliff. unqualified, all-out,
collectively, en masse, » noun a burial chamber thoroughgoing
top 1
J in unison, jointly, shoulder The pyramids in Egypt » noun the highest part of total 3
to shoulder, side by side are ancient tombs. » verb to reach the sum of
grave, mausoleum, something I waited at
K together 2 sarcophagus, the top of the cliff. The money they raised for
L » adverb at the same time sepulchre (literary), vault apex, brow, crest, crown, charity totalled £300,000.
culmination, head, height, add up to, amount to,
Three horses crossed too 1 high point, peak, pinnacle, come to
the finish line together. » adverb also or as well ridge, summit, zenith
(literary), acme, apex, apogee touch 1
M as one, at once, It wasn’t just me. antonym: bottom » verb to put your hand on
concurrently, You were there, too.
as well, besides, top 2 something Please do not
N simultaneously, in addition, into the bargain, » noun the lid of a container touch anything in the museum.
with one accord likewise, moreover feel, finger, handle
Marie put the top back on
O tolerable 1 too 2 the bottle. touch 2
P » adjective able to be put up with » adverb more than a desirable cap, lid, stopper » verb to come into contact with

The accommodation was or acceptable amount Ben top 3 Annie lowered herself down
simple but tolerable. had a tummy ache after eating » adjective being the best of its until her feet touched the floor.
too many sweets. brush, graze, meet
Q acceptable, bearable excessively, over-, overly, kind Ivan was the team’s related word: adjective tactile
antonym: unbearable unduly, unreasonably top goal scorer.
best, chief, elite, foremost, touch 3
R tolerable 2 tool head, highest, lead, » verb to emotionally affect
S » adjective fairly satisfactory » noun a hand-held instrument leading, pre-eminent,
premier, prime, principal someone I was touched
Mo is making tolerable for doing a job They had by the stranger’s kindness.
headway with his essay and will a shed full of gardening tools. affect, move, stir
implement, instrument,
T finish it before the deadline. utensil touching
acceptable, adequate, okay » adjective causing sadness
top 4
U or OK (informal), passable, » verb to be greater than or sympathy The touching
reasonable, so-so (informal) tale moved Anika to tears.
something The temperature affecting (literary), moving,
tolerant topped 40 degrees celsius. poignant
cap, exceed, go beyond,
V » adjective accepting of different outstrip, surpass The touching tale moved
views and behaviour Our Anika to tears.
They had a shed full of top 5
W teacher is tolerant of unruly gardening tools. » verb to be better than someone
X behaviour in the playground,
or something The world
but not in the classroom. record was going to be quite
liberal, broad-minded, difficult to top.
beat, better, eclipse,
Y open-minded, improve on, outdo, surpass
understanding, easygoing,
230
Z forbearing, forgiving,
lenient, permissive
antonym: narrow-minded

travel

touchy trace 3 tragic transport 2 a
» adjective easily upset » noun a small amount of » adjective very sad The » verb to move people or goods
b
Elle was always touchy after something There was a trace book had a tragic ending; somewhere A bus c
an argument with her parents. of cinnamon in the iced bun. the hero dies. transported passengers from
easily offended, sensitive, dash, drop, remnant, distressing, heartbreaking, the terminal to the plane. d
oversensitive, thin-skinned suspicion, tinge, touch, heart-rending carry, convey (formal), e
vestige, iota, jot, soupçon ship, transfer
tough 1 train f
» adjective able to put up with trade 1 » verb to teach someone how to trap 1 g
» noun the buying and selling of » noun a device for catching
hardship Marian is a tough do something We train our h
and ambitious woman. goods The country relies volunteers in first aid. animals The net acted i
hardened, hardy, resilient, heavily on foreign trade. coach, drill, educate, as a trap for catching fish. j
robust, rugged, strong business, commerce instruct, school, net, snare
teach, tutor k
tough 2 trade 2 trap 2 l
» adjective difficult to break or » noun the kind of work someone » verb to catch animals m
n
damage The lid was too does Ed learnt his trade Clara tried to trap o
tough for Mark to unscrew. while working as an apprentice. the butterfly. p
durable, hard-wearing, business, line, line of work, catch, corner, snare q
leathery, resilient, robust, occupation, profession
rugged, solid, strong, Clara tried to trap the butterfly. r
sturdy trade 3 We train our volunteers in first aid. s
antonym: fragile » verb to buy and sell goods trap 3 t
transfer verb to trick someone » She u
The lid was too tough for My parents have years of » verb to move something from v
Mark to unscrew. experience in trading clothes. knew Kelly was trying to trap w
deal, do business, traffic one place to another It was her into agreeing to swap x
tough 3 easy to transfer the photos from shoes, but she kept refusing. y
» adjective full of hardship trader the camera to the computer. dupe, trick, ensnare, entrap
» noun someone who trades in carry, download, z
The obstacle course was move, upload trash 1
tough but fun. goods The bicycle trader » noun waste material
arduous, difficult, exacting, helped me find the right bike. transform
hard broker, dealer, merchant » verb to change something The trash was collected
antonym: easy every Monday.
tradition completely The run-down garbage, refuse,
trace 1 » noun a long-standing custom building was transformed into rubbish, waste
» verb to look for and find a trendy café.
The tradition in the town alter, change, convert, trash 2
something Chloe was trying was to hold a Christmas reform, revolutionize » noun something of poor quality
to trace her family tree. market every winter.
locate, track down convention, custom transparent The magazine was trash,
» adjective able to be seen but Jo still liked reading it.
trace 2 traditional garbage (informal), rubbish
» noun a sign of something » adjective existing for a long through Glass is
transparent. travel
Derek’s keys had time The family wore clear, crystalline (literary), » verb to make a journey
disappeared without a trace. traditional Indian dress. sheer, translucent,
evidence, hint, indication, conventional, established diaphanous, see-through somewhere Ben travelled
record, sign, suggestion, antonym: unconventional antonym: opaque through Europe by train.
whiff go, journey (formal),
transport 1 make your way, take a trip,
The family wore traditional » noun the moving of goods and proceed, voyage
Indian dress.
people Danny booked
an all-inclusive holiday that
included transport to the hotel.
removal, shipment,
transportation

231

treacherous

A trip excursion
B
C

D » 1 noun a journey to a place We’re going on an excursion to the old town.
Guy was saving up for his
trip around the world.
GEF jaunt journeWe’re off on a jaunt to the seaside.
HI outing voyage yWe’re having a class outing to the castle.
It’s a long car journey across the country.

J We’re going on a voyage across the sea.

tourK
expeditionL The best way to see everything is to take a tour.

M I’m excited about our expedition to the countryside.

day outN
OP trekWe’re having a day out to the forest.
He’s going on a trek in the Himalayas.
Q

R
S
T
U
V

W
X
Y
Z

232

try

treacherous 1 tribute triumph 1 true 2 a
» adjective likely to betray » noun something that shows » noun a great success » adjective real or genuine
b
someone He was a admiration The statue was a The band’s final concert Alicia was a true friend, c
treacherous character, betraying tribute to the former president. was a triumph, delighting always there for me.
the hero’s hideout to the enemy. accolade (formal), their fans. authentic, bona fide, d
disloyal, faithless, compliment, honour, success, victory, genuine, real e
unfaithful, untrustworthy, praise, testimony accomplishment, antonym: false
traitorous achievement, coup, f
antonym: loyal trick 1 hit, tour de force trust g
» noun something that deceives antonym: failure » verb to believe that someone
treacherous 2 h
» adjective dangerous or someone Joshua liked to triumph 2 will do something My parents i
play tricks on his family. » verb to be successful trust me to do the right thing. j
unreliable The vehicle con (informal), deception, count on, depend on,
travelled slowly along the hoax, ploy, ruse, stratagem, The host country won the have confidence in, have k
treacherous mountain roads. subterfuge most medals and triumphed faith in, place your trust in, l
dangerous, hazardous, at the Olympics. rely upon m
perilous (literary) trick 2 come out on top (informal), n
» verb to deceive someone prevail, succeed, win trusty o
The vehicle travelled slowly along antonym: fail » adjective considered to be p
the treacherous mountain roads. A magician tricks the q
audience into believing trivial reliable I bought my trusty
treasure the unbelievable. » adjective not important The old bike years ago, but it’s still r
» verb to consider something con (informal), deceive, going strong. s
dupe, fool, take in (informal), problem was trivial and could dependable, faithful, firm, t
very precious Friendship hoax, hoodwink wait to be dealt with. reliable, solid, staunch, u
is something to treasure. insignificant, minor, true, trustworthy v
cherish, hold dear, prize, negligible, paltry, petty, w
value, revere, venerate slight, trifling, unimportant, truth x
frivolous, inconsequential » noun the facts about something y
treat 1 antonym: important
The documents revealed z
verb to behave towards trouble 1 the truth about the mystery.
» noun a difficulty or problem fact, reality
» someone in a certain way related words: adjectives
The manager treated all Finn was having some trouble veritable, veracious
the players fairly. with his maths homework.
act towards, behave bother, difficulty, hassle try 1
towards, deal with (informal), problem » verb to make an effort to do

treat 2 A magician tricks the audience trouble 2 something I tried my
» verb to give someone medical into believing the unbelievable. » verb to make someone feel best in the test and received
a satisfactory grade.
care The doctor who treated tricky worried The missing bag attempt, endeavour (formal),
me was kind and caring. » adjective difficult to do or troubled Janet, as her keys make an attempt, make an
care for, nurse were in there. effort, seek, strive
to deal with The family agitate, bother,
trendy sat down to figure out the disturb, worry try 2
» adjective (informal) fashionable tricky problem together. » verb to test the quality
complex, complicated, trouble 3
I took my friend for delicate, difficult, hard, » verb to cause someone of something Howard tried
smoothies at a trendy café. problematic, puzzling, the soup to see how hot it was.
fashionable, in (slang), sensitive inconvenience Can I trouble check out, sample, test,
in fashion, in vogue, you for some milk? try out
latest, stylish trip 1 bother, disturb, impose
upon, inconvenience, Howard tried the soup to see how
noun a journey to a place put out hot it was.

◀◀ SEE LEFT true 1
» adjective not invented
trip 2
verb to fall over » I tripped The new action film
is based on a true story.
on the stairs. accurate, correct, factual
fall over, lose your footing, antonym: inaccurate
stumble

233

try

A try 3 turn 3 type
B » noun an attempt to do » noun someone’s right or duty
»noun a group of things that have
something After only a few to do something Tonight,
tries, Mario played the piece it’s my turn to cook. features in common You can organize
chance, go, opportunity the papers by their type.
C of music perfectly.
attempt, effort, twist 1 class category
endeavour (formal), » verb to turn something round
genre classification
D go (informal), shot (informal) Dad twisted the strands of group
dough to make a loaf. set
tug 1 bend, curl, twine, weave, sort
wring, entwine, wreathe
E » verb to give something a quick, What genre of books do you like to read?
hard pull The climber Dad twisted the strands of dough
to make a loaf. grade division
F tugged hard on the rope level league
to test it was secure. twist 2
» verb to bend into a new shape section list
G drag, draw, haul,
heave, jerk, pluck, The bike was twisted out tier
of shape in the accident.
H pull, wrench, yank distort, mangle, screw up, Charlie’s team played in the top division.
contort, warp
I brand breed
twist 3 kind
J » verb to injure a part of your make
style species
K body I’ve twisted my ankle.
L sprain, wrench, rick, turn variety

M The climber tugged hard on the two-faced There were dogs of all kinds
rope to test it was secure. » adjective not honest in dealing at the county competition.

N tug 2 with other people Bev is
O » noun a quick, hard pull so two-faced. She talks about
her friends behind their backs.
Sam felt a tug at his arm. deceitful, dishonest,
heave, jerk, pull, wrench, disloyal, false, hypocritical,
insincere, treacherous
P yank
type
tune
noun a group of things that
Q » noun a series of musical notes have features in common
Betty hummed a tune that
▶▶ SEE RIGHT
R had been stuck in her head
S for days. typical

melody, strains, air, theme adjective having the usual

T turn 1 » characteristics of something
verb to change the direction Today was just another
typical day at school.
U » or position of something average, characteristic,
Dan turned the car around normal, regular,
representative, standard,
V so that they were facing the stock, usual, archetypal,
right direction. archetypical, stereotypical
rotate, spin, swivel, antonym: uncharacteristic

W twirl, twist 234

turn 2

X » verb to become or make
something different Your

Y body turns food into energy.
change, convert, mutate,

Z transform, metamorphose,
transfigure, transmute

uncommon

unbelievable 1 uncomfortable 1 a
» adjective extremely great or » adjective feeling or causing
b
surprising Hugh showed discomfort Sarah slept c
unbelievable courage. badly because her bed
colossal, incredible, was uncomfortable. d
stupendous awkward, cramped, e
disagreeable, ill-fitting,
unbelievable 2 painful f
antonym: comfortable g
adjective so unlikely it cannot
be believed uncomfortable 2 h
» adjective not relaxed i
▼ SEE BELOW j
or confident Talking
ugly ultimate 3 uncertain 1 about money made Mick k
» noun the finest example of » adjective not knowing what uncomfortable. l
adjective having a very awkward, embarrassed, m
something The fancy hotel to do Jim looked uncertain ill at ease, self-conscious, n
» unattractive appearance is the ultimate in luxury. after hearing Sal’s insane plan. uneasy o
The fish was very ugly, epitome, extreme, doubtful, dubious, unclear, antonym: comfortable p
with goggly eyes. height, peak undecided, irresolute, q
plain, unattractive, vacillating uncommon 1
unsightly, unlovely, unaware antonym: certain » adjective not happening r
unprepossessing » adjective not knowing about s
antonym: beautiful uncertain 2 or seen often A lynx is an
something She was unaware » adjective not definite uncommon sight round here. t
ultimate 1 of the large spider dangling exceptional, extraordinary, u
» adjective being the final one beside her. The injured player was few, infrequent, out of the v
ignorant, oblivious, facing an uncertain future. ordinary, rare, scarce, w
of a series It is not possible unconscious, unsuspecting ambiguous, doubtful, sparse, unusual, x
to predict the ultimate winner antonym: aware indefinite, indeterminate, unprecedented y
of the talent show. conjectural, undetermined antonym: common
eventual, final, last unbearable antonym: certain z
» adjective too unpleasant to be
ultimate 2 unclear
» adjective the most important tolerated The midday heat » adjective confusing and
was unbearable.
or powerful The ultimate intolerable, oppressive, not obvious It is unclear
goal of any tennis professional unacceptable, insufferable, exactly how much support
is to win a Grand Slam. unendurable Tia has for the new design.
greatest, paramount, antonym: tolerable ambiguous, confused,
supreme, utmost vague
antonym: clear

That’s animimpplaluasibulescilabiml.e iInyto’sucintrhceirnekdditbihlbaet.le
pIt’rs ea ppreoposstteerorusosutatsement.
improbable
It’s an imopurtocboambele. Iut’snunccoonvninvciinng ctoisnaygthat.

It’s incionncceiovabnlectheati’vll ahabppleen.

unbelievable
»2 adjective so unlikely it cannot be believed
“Maybe we’ll live on Mars.” “And maybe pigs will fly,” snorted Dad. “Unbelievable!”

235

uncommon

A uncommon 2 understand 3 unemployed
B » adjective unusually great » verb to hear of something » adjective not having a job

Sue read Cecilia’s letter I understand your cousin Henry is unemployed
with uncommon interest. hasn’t been well. and looking for work.
believe, gather, hear, learn idle, jobless, redundant
C acute, exceptional, antonym: employed
extraordinary, extreme, understanding 1
great, intense, remarkable, » noun a knowledge of something uneven 1
» adjective not the same or
D unparalleled Kai has a good
understanding of computers. consistent Brooke drew
unconscious 1 appreciation, six lines of uneven length.
comprehension, grasp, fluctuating, inconsistent,
E » adjective in a state similar knowledge, perception irregular, patchy, variable
to sleep Frank banged antonym: even
The young children played with understanding 2
F his head and knocked their toys under the table. » noun an informal agreement uneven 2
himself unconscious. » adjective having an unlevel
under They came to an
G asleep, senseless, stunned, » preposition at a lower level understanding that worked or rough surface The bikers
comatose, insensible for both of them. raced over the uneven terrain
than something The young accord, agreement, pact with ease.
H antonym: conscious children played with their toys bumpy, not level,
I unconscious 2 under the table. not smooth, rough
below, beneath, underneath antonym: level
» adjective not aware of what is antonym: above
The bikers raced over the
happening The fox was quite undergo They came to an understanding uneven terrain with ease.
» verb to have something happen that worked for both of them.
J unconscious of their presence. unexpected
oblivious, unaware, to you My uncle had understanding 3 » adjective not considered likely
to undergo major surgery. » adjective having a sympathetic
K unknowing, unsuspecting be subjected to, endure, to happen Raj’s win was
antonym: aware experience, go through, nature My parents are very completely unexpected – he
suffer understanding. was last in the semi-finals.
L uncover 1 compassionate, astonishing, chance,
M » verb to find something out undermine considerate, sensitive, surprising, unforeseen,
» verb to make something less sympathetic fortuitous, unanticipated
The journalist uncovered
the truth behind the scandal. secure or strong I won’t let undertaking unfailing
you undermine me – I know » noun a task which you have
N bring to light, expose, I’m right. adjective continuous and not
reveal, show up, unearth impair, sap, subvert, agreed to do Organizing
weaken the show has been a massive » weakening as time passes
O uncover 2 antonym: strengthen undertaking. I admire Jan’s unfailing
P » verb to remove the lid or cover affair, business, endeavour, cheerfulness, even in the
understand 1 enterprise, job, operation, most stressful times.
from something When the » verb to know what someone project, task, venture constant, endless,
seedlings sprout, lift the plastic unremitting
means Do you understand uneasy
Q to uncover the tray. what I’m saying?
expose, lay bare, open, catch on (informal), adjective worried that
reveal, unearth, unveil, comprehend, follow,
get, grasp, see, take in » something may be wrong
R unwrap I was very uneasy about
S understand 2 the plans to close the library.
agitated, anxious, nervous,
T verb to know why or how perturbed, worried,
U apprehensive,
» something is happening discomposed, restive
V Ria was too young to antonym: comfortable
understand what was
W happening.
X appreciate, comprehend,
fathom, grasp, realize,
Y conceive, discern
Z When the seedlings sprout, lift

the plastic to uncover the tray.

236

unhappy

unfair crestfallen gloomy a
» adjective without right or
down despondent b
justice Joe said it was c
unfair that he wasn’t allowed sad miserable
to go to the party. d
unjust, wrong, wrongful, sorrowful depressed e
inequitable, iniquitous
antonym: fair disconsolate antonym: happy f
g
unfamiliar unhappy » adjective feeling sad or depressed He was unhappy
» adjective not having been seen that the holiday was coming to an end. h
i
or heard of before Amber j
grew many plants that were
unfamiliar to me. k
alien, exotic, foreign, new, l
novel, strange, unknown m
n
unfriendly o
p
adjective not showing any q

» warmth or kindness r
The cats were unfriendly s
and hissed at each other.
aloof, antagonistic, cold, t
disagreeable, hostile, u
unkind, ill-disposed, v
uncongenial w
antonym: friendly x
y
The cats were unfriendly and
hissed at each other. z

ungrateful

adjective not appreciating

» the things you have
The guests were ungrateful
and didn’t thank us when
they left.
unappreciative, unthankful
antonym: grateful

unhappy

adjective feeling sad
or depressed

▶▶ SEE RIGHT

237

unhealthy

A uninterested unite
verb to join together and
act as a group The rival
bands united to perform
B »  » adjective not interested in
something I’m completely
uninterested in politics.
C apathetic, bored, a charity concert.
impassive, indifferent, collaborate, combine, join,

nonchalant, passive, join forces, link up, merge,

D Dennis eats too much unconcerned pull together, work together
unhealthy food. antonym: interested antonym: divide

E unhealthy 1 union 1 universal The two butterflies looked
F » adjective likely to cause illness completely unlike one another.
noun an organization of people adjective relating to everyone
Dennis eats too much unlike
» or groups with mutual interests » or to the whole universe » preposition different from
G unhealthy food. Julie belongs to several The programmes have
bad for you, harmful, different unions. a universal appeal and are The two butterflies looked
association, coalition, suitable for the whole family. completely unlike one another.
insanitary, noxious, confederation, federation, common, general, different from, dissimilar to,
league unlimited, widespread, distinct from, divergent
H unwholesome worldwide, omnipresent, from (formal), far from
antonym: healthy antonym: like

I unhealthy 2 union 2 overarching

» adjective not well Ross noun the joining together unkind

J looks rather pale and unhealthy. » of two or more things adjective lacking in kindness
ailing, crook (Australia and We formed a union
New Zealand; informal), ill, with another dance troupe. » and consideration
amalgamation, blend, It’s very unkind to call
K not well, poorly (Britain; combination, fusion, anyone names.
informal), sick, unwell mixture, amalgam, cruel, malicious, mean,
conjunction, synthesis nasty, spiteful, thoughtless
L antonym: healthy
antonym: kind
M unimportant We formed a union with another unlikely
adjective having little dance troupe. unknown » adjective probably not true
» adjective not familiar or famous
N » significance or importance or likely to happen Sofia
The difference in their ages Tim was an unknown writer blamed her lateness on the
before he won the book prize. unlikely excuse that there
O is unimportant and doesn’t humble, obscure, were no buses.
affect their friendship. unfamiliar, unsung implausible, incredible,
insignificant, minor, paltry, antonym: famous unbelievable, unconvincing
antonym: likely
P slight, trivial
antonym: important

Q unsteady
R

S »adjective not held or fixed securely and likely to fall over
That bridge looks decidedly unsteady to me.

T

WUYXV precarious rickety shakyThe planks pwreerecasrtiruonugs twoagye.ther in aThe ricbkeetwtyeebnridthgee phlaadnkgsa.psThe bridasgeshfeeltstsehpapkeydaosnsiot.onsHtee lpasuagchreodssatthheerbrtiodttgee.ringtottering

Z

238

unlucky unsatisfactory untrue a
» adjective having bad luck » adjective not good enough
My bedroom is very untidy. b
Elias was unlucky not Emma’s work was judged c
to score in the first half. unsatisfactory by the teacher. untidy
cursed, hapless, luckless, disappointing, inadequate, » adjective not neatly arranged d
unfortunate, wretched mediocre, poor, e
antonym: lucky unacceptable My bedroom is very untidy.
antonym: satisfactory bedraggled, chaotic, f
unnecessary The ginger biscuits were cluttered, jumbled, messy, g
» adjective completely needless unpopular, and everyone unsteady unkempt, disordered,
wanted the chocolate ones. shambolic h
My father considers taxis adjective not held or fixed antonym: tidy i
to be an unnecessary expense unpopular securely and likely to fall over j
so we always take the bus. » adjective disliked by most untrue
needless, pointless, ▼ SEE BELOW » adjective not true k
uncalled-for people The ginger biscuits l
antonym: necessary were unpopular, and everyone unsuitable The allegations that he m
wanted the chocolate ones. » adjective not appropriate lied were completely untrue. n
unpleasant 1 detested, disliked, erroneous, false, fictitious, o
shunned, undesirable for a purpose Tom’s attire inaccurate, incorrect, p
adjective causing feelings antonym: popular was unsuitable for running. misleading, mistaken q
improper, inappropriate, antonym: true
» of discomfort or dislike unpredictable unacceptable, unfit, r
Dirty socks have a very » adjective unable to be foreseen inapposite, unseemly s
unpleasant smell! antonym: suitable
bad, disagreeable, The weather in the t
distasteful, nasty, repulsive, mountains is unpredictable, Tom’s attire was unsuitable u
unpalatable one minute it’s sunny and for running. v
antonym: pleasant the next it’s raining. w
chance, doubtful, x
unpleasant 2 hit and miss (informal), y
» adjective rude or unfriendly unforeseeable
antonym: predictable z
He was thoroughly
unpleasant to me earlier.
disagreeable, horrid,
objectionable, obnoxious,
rude, unfriendly
antonym: pleasant

antonym:

steady

She would be glad to
reach steady ground on
unstable wobblyAlthloonugghasityfoeultduidnns’ttalboloek,Therowpeosbbmlaydteothe other side.

unsafHeanthdoduigdhnt’titwwaansteutonsuasefeit. idtowwans. tchreosbsr.idge very

OK as

239

unusual

A upkeep urge 1 useful
» noun a strong wish to do » adjective something that helps
B noun the process and cost
something Evelyn stifled or makes things easier This
C » of maintaining something the urge to laugh at her booklet contains a great deal
The school is raising money friend’s singing. of useful information.
D for the upkeep of the grounds. compulsion, desire, drive, beneficial, effective,
keep, maintenance, impulse, longing, wish helpful, practical,
E overheads, preservation, valuable, worthwhile
running urge 2 antonym: useless
F » verb to try hard to persuade
upset 1 useless
G » adjective feeling unhappy someone Suhel left early, » adjective not suitable or useful
H Baobabs are unusual trees with despite being urged to stay.
about something Chloe beg, beseech, implore, My jacket was useless
thick trunks and few leaves. was very upset when she plead, press, entreat, in the rain because it
heard the bad news. exhort, solicit wasn’t waterproof.
I unusual agitated, distressed, futile, impractical,
J » adjective not occurring very frantic, hurt, troubled, urgent unproductive, unsuitable,
unhappy » adjective needing to be dealt worthless,
often Baobabs are unusual disadvantageous,
trees with thick trunks and Chloe was very upset when with quickly The rescued ineffectual, unavailing
she heard the bad news. sailors had an urgent need antonym: useful
K few leaves. for food and water.
curious, exceptional, upset 2 compelling, immediate,
extraordinary, rare, » verb to make someone worried imperative, pressing

L uncommon, or unhappy The news use 1
unconventional, about the missing dog upset » verb to perform a task with
me terribly.
M atypical, unwonted agitate, bother, distress, something Use a sharp knife
antonym: common disturb, grieve, ruffle, to cut into the lemon.
discompose, faze, perturb apply, employ, operate,
N unwell utilize, avail oneself of, ply
O » adjective ill or sick upset 3
» verb to turn something over Use a sharp knife to cut into My jacket was useless in the rain
Noah felt unwell and the lemon. because it wasn’t waterproof.
had to go home early. accidentally Aiden upset
the coffee cup. use 2 usual
P ailing, crook (Australia and capsize, knock over, » noun the act of using » adjective done or happening
New Zealand; informal), ill, overturn, spill
something There is rarely most often You’ll find Enzo
Q poorly (Britain; informal), Aiden upset the coffee cup. any need for the use of force. sitting at his usual table, he’s
queasy, sick, indisposed, application, employment, always there.
under the weather operation, usage accustomed, common,
customary, habitual,
R antonym: well normal, regular, standard

unwilling utter
» adjective complete or total
S » adjective not wanting to do
something Amelia was The teacher walked into
unwilling to get too involved the classroom to find a scene
of utter chaos, with children
T in school politics. running riot.
U averse, grudging, loath, absolute, complete,
consummate, out-and-out,
reluctant outright, perfect, pure,
sheer, thorough, total,
V antonym: willing unconditional, unmitigated,
unqualified
unwise

W » adjective foolish or not sensible
It’s very unwise to go out in

X the sunshine without wearing
sunscreen.

Y daft, foolish, idiotic,
irresponsible, rash,
senseless, silly, stupid,

Z imprudent, injudicious
antonym: wise

240

vanquish

vague vain 3 : in vain valuable 1 value 3 a
» adjective not clearly expressed
adjective unsuccessful in adjective having great verb to appreciate something b
or clearly visible Uncle Bill c
was very vague about his job, » achieving what was intended » importance or usefulness » and think it is important
so we didn’t know what he did. Sally tried in vain to open Tim’s experience as a I really value all the help d
hazy, indefinite, indistinct, the locked door. mechanic was very valuable that Ashley gave me. e
loose, uncertain, unclear, fruitless, to no avail, when the car wouldn’t start. appreciate, cherish,
ill-defined, indeterminate, unsuccessful, wasted beneficial, helpful, have a high opinion of, f
nebulous important, prized, useful, prize, rate highly, g
antonym: definite valley worthwhile, cherished, respect, treasure
esteemed, treasured h
vain 1 noun an area of low-lying land antonym: useless value 4 i
» adjective very proud of your between hills, often with a j
valuable 2 verb to decide how much
looks or qualities Sarah is » river or stream flowing through » adjective worth a lot of money k
so vain – she’s always looking » money something is worth l
at herself in the mirror. it On the floor of the valley Diamonds are valuable gems. Gran had her jewellery m
conceited, egotistical, lay a beautiful lake. costly, expensive, precious valued for insurance purposes. n
ostentatious, proud, dale, glen, hollow, vale antonym: worthless appraise, assess, cost, o
stuck-up (informal), estimate, evaluate, price p
narcissistic, swaggering On the floor of the valley lay q
a beautiful lake. valuables vanish 1
vain 2 » plural noun the things you own verb to disappear » The Moon r
s
adjective not successful in that cost a lot of money Keep vanished behind a cloud.
your valuables in a safe place. become invisible, t
» achieving what was intended heirlooms, treasures be lost to view, disappear, u
Danny made a vain attempt fade, recede v
to stop the baby crying. value 1 antonym: appear w
abortive, fruitless, futile, x
unproductive, useless noun the importance or vanish 2 y
antonym: successful
» usefulness of something verb to cease to exist z
The fact that Maria spoke
Spanish was of great value. ▼ SEE BELOW
advantage, benefit,
effectiveness, importance, vanquish
merit, use, usefulness, » verb to defeat someone
virtue, worth
completely I read a
value 2 gripping story about a knight
» noun the amount of money who vanquished his enemies.
beat, conquer, crush, defeat,
that something is worth The overcome, rout, trounce
value of my stamp collection
has risen by 50 per cent.
cost, market price, price,
selling price, worth

ade away melt awa
ydissolve
t
be
c
f
come extinc ease to exist pass

go away
evaporate

die out vanish » 2 verb to cease to exist
Dinosaurs vanished from
cease Earth millions of years ago.

241

variation

BA 2 noun the things you can

C view » see from a particular place
What a beautiful view!

D aspect

E landscape Such a sunny aspect!

F The landscape is stunning. spectacle
G
Yes, all that sparkling
H perspective water is quite a spectacle.

I I’ve got a good perspective from here.
J

K
L

M Various sorts of trees grow in vary 2 The jury delivered their verdict:
the local park. » verb to introduce changes in he was innocent.
N variation
noun a change from various something I try to vary my verdict
» adjective of several different diet as much as possible. » noun a decision or opinion on
O » the normal or usual pattern alternate, diversify, modify,
There was no variation in types Various sorts of permutate, reorder something The jury delivered
trees grow in the local park. their verdict: he was innocent.
P Jim’s mood from one day to the assorted, different, vast conclusion, decision,
Q next – he was always grumpy. disparate, diverse, » adjective extremely large We finding, judgment, opinion
miscellaneous, sundry,
alteration, change, manifold gazed at the Milky Way, one
departure, deviation, small part of our vast Universe.
vary 1 colossal, enormous, giant,
R difference, diversion » verb to change to something gigantic, great, huge,
S variety 1 immense, massive
different The weather here antonym: tiny
noun a number of different varies greatly from day to day.
alter, alternate, change, very
T » kinds of things fluctuate » adverb to a great degree
An encyclopedia contains
a wide variety of subjects. I know Chloe very well.
deeply, extremely, greatly,
U array, assortment, highly, really, terribly,
collection, medley, mixture, exceedingly, profoundly,
remarkably
V range, cross section,
miscellany, multiplicity We gazed at the Milky Way, one veto 1
small part of our vast Universe. » verb to forbid something
variety 2
The government authorities
W » noun a particular type of vetoed the building plans.
something The café owner ban, forbid, prohibit

X asked Carlos which variety of
Y coffee he wanted.

category, class, kind,
sort, strain, type

Z

242

violent

vista panorama a

I never expected a vista I can see the panorama b
like this to open up. from east to west. c
d
scene prospect e
f
I must take a photo There is a lovely prospect from here. g
of this scene.
h
i
j

veto 2 viewpoint violent 1 k
» noun an attitude towards » adjective intending to hurt l
noun the act of forbidding m
something The parents or kill people The violent
» or power to forbid something had differing viewpoints criminals were sent to prison. n
The head teacher issued on the new teacher. bloodthirsty, brutal, cruel,
a veto on the school council’s attitude, belief, murderous, savage, vicious o
proposal to stop homework. conviction, feeling, antonym: gentle p
ban, prohibition opinion, point of view
Ian told me his views on sport and q
victory I could hardly get a word in. violence 1
» noun a success in a battle violent 2 r
view 1 noun behaviour which is » adjective happening with great s
or competition The team » noun a personal opinion Ian
celebrated its fifth consecutive » intended to hurt people force Violent waves crashed t
victory in the tournament. told me his views on sport and Nina absolutely hates against the rocks. u
laurels, success, I could hardly get a word in. seeing violence on television. powerful, raging, rough, v
superiority, triumph, win attitude, belief, bloodshed, brutality, strong, turbulent, wild, w
antonym: defeat conviction, feeling, cruelty, force, savagery tempestuous, tumultuous x
opinion, point of view y
The team celebrated its violence 2 Violent waves crashed against
fifth consecutive victory view 2 » noun force and energy the rocks. z
in the tournament.
noun the things you can see Amy was furious and
from a particular place slammed the door with
great violence.
▲ SEE ABOVE fervour, force, harshness,
intensity, severity,
view 3 vehemence
» verb to think of something in

a particular way Tina viewed
the noisy kids as troublemakers.
consider, deem (formal),
judge, regard

243

violent

A violent 3 vision 3
B » adjective said, felt, or done
noun an experience in which
with great force Jake was
not expecting his chemistry » you see things others cannot
C experiment to give such a Lily was convinced her
violent reaction. visions of fairies were real.
acute, furious, intense, apparition, hallucination,
illusion, mirage, phantom,
D powerful, severe, strong, spectre, chimera, The staff took a vote on
forcible, passionate, phantasm, wraith whether to move offices.
E vehement
F virtue 1 Jude ate the ice lolly with visit 1 vote 1
visible enjoyment. » verb to go to see and spend
noun the quality of doing noun a decision made by
visible 2 time with someone Simon
G » what is morally right » adjective noticeable or evident visited his brother in Boston. » allowing people to state their
My grandmother reminded call on, go to see, look up
me that patience is a virtue. Jude ate the ice lolly with preference The staff took a
visible enjoyment. visit 2 vote on whether to move offices.
H goodness, integrity, apparent, evident, » noun a trip to see a person or ballot, plebiscite (formal),
morality, probity, rectitude, manifest, noticeable, polls, referendum
righteousness place Helen had recently
paid her aunt a visit. vote 2
I virtue 2 call, stay, stop » verb to indicate a choice
J » noun an advantage something obvious, plain,
has The players discussed the conspicuous, discernible, vital 1 or opinion Many people
K virtues of various hockey teams. patent » adjective necessary or very voted for the new candidate
advantage, asset, attribute, in this year’s election.
merit, plus, strength vision 1 important As the goal- cast a vote, go to the polls,
scorer, Sam played a vital role opt, return
L virtue 3 : by virtue of noun a mental picture in winning the match.
M » preposition because of central, critical, vote 3
» in which you imagine things crucial, essential, » verb to suggest that something
Ben succeeds at school My vision of the future important, indispensable,
includes flying cars. necessary, pivotal should happen I vote that
N by virtue of hard work. conception, daydream, we go to the theme park.
as a result of, because of, dream, fantasy, ideal, vital 2 propose, recommend,
» adjective energetic and full suggest
by dint of, on account of, image
of life The dog was old, but vulgar 1
O thanks to it was vital and full of energy. » adjective socially unacceptable
active, dynamic, energetic,
visible 1 My vision of the future lively, spirited, sprightly, or offensive Adam was told
includes flying cars. vivacious off for using vulgar language
P » adjective able to be seen antonym: dull in front of his little brother.
Wait until the green man vision 2 coarse, rude, uncouth,
The dog was old, but it was vital improper, unrefined
Q becomes visible before noun the ability to imagine and full of energy. antonym: refined
crossing the road.
» future developments vomit vulgar 2
R clear, conspicuous, Lisa had a vision for her » adjective showing a lack of
distinguishable, in sight, science project – it was going verb to have food and drink
to be amazing! taste or quality My mum
S observable, perceptible foresight, imagination, » come back up through the says it’s vulgar to boast about
antonym: invisible insight, intuition how much money you have.
mouth Any product made common, flashy, gaudy,
T from milk made Andrea vomit. tasteless, tawdry
U be sick, bring up, antonym: sophisticated
V regurgitate
vulnerable
W » adjective weak and without
X
protection In the wild,
Y newborn animals are especially
Z Wait until the green man becomes vulnerable to predators.
exposed, sensitive,
visible before crossing the road. susceptible, weak,
assailable, defenceless,
unprotected

244

warn

wander war 2 a
» verb to move about in a casual » verb to fight against something
b
way The tourists wandered The two countries had c
aimlessly around the village. been warring with each
cruise, drift, ramble, range, other for years.
roam, stroll battle, clash, combat, fight

wait 1 We’ll have a quick walk while want 1 warm 1 d
it’s fine. » verb to feel a desire for » adjective having some heat e
verb to spend time before
walk 2 something I want but not hot It was a warm f
» something happens » noun a journey made by a red car, for a change. spring day. g
We waited all evening covet, crave, desire, wish balmy, heated, lukewarm,
for Elizabeth to arrive. walking We’ll have a pleasant, tepid h
linger, pause, remain, quick walk while it’s fine. want 2 antonym: cold i
stand by, stay hike, march, ramble, » verb to need something j
stroll, trek, constitutional, warm 2
wait 2 perambulation, saunter The bin wants emptying. » adjective friendly and k
» noun a period of time before be deficient in, demand, l
walk 3 lack, need, require affectionate Jane has a m
something happens The » noun the way someone moves warm and likeable personality. n
passengers faced a three-hour want 3 affectionate, amiable, o
wait for the next train. when walking Although » noun a lack of something cordial, friendly, genial, p
delay, interval, pause Sid was far away, I recognized loving q
him from his walk. Phil started to feel weak antonym: unfriendly
wake carriage, gait, pace, stride from want of food. r
absence, deficiency, lack, warm 3 s
verb to make or become scarcity, shortage, dearth, » verb to heat something gently
insufficiency, paucity t
» conscious again after sleep antonym: abundance The sun came out and u
It was still dark when warmed his back. v
Fred woke early that morning. war 1 heat, heat up, melt, w
awake, come to, rouse, » noun a period of armed conflict thaw, warm up x
stir, waken antonym: cool y
between countries The war
walk 1 dragged on for five years. warn
combat, conflict, fighting,
verb to go on foot hostilities, strife, warfare verb to give advance notice
antonym: peace
▼ SEE BELOW related words: adjectives » of something unpleasant
belligerent, martial I warned Sam that he
walk might slip on the wet floor.
alert, caution, forewarn,
» 1 verb to go on foot notify, admonish, apprise
Alex walked
through the field. plod wander stumble

totter step saunter stamp stride

tiptoe stroll tread ramble march
trudge trek
toddle
flounce hike reel
amble stagger
tramp
stalk

lurch pace

z

245

warning

warning waste 2

A noun something that tells noun using something
B » people of possible danger
» excessively or unnecessarily
We had warning of the What a complete waste
flood, so were able to of money!
extravagance, misuse,
C watch protect our house.
» 2 verb to look at something for some time He liked alarm, alert, caution, squandering, dissipation,
notice, premonition, misapplication
D to watch distant objects through his binoculars. augury, caveat, presage

EF gaze atA clear night is the best time to gaze at the stars. wary waste 3
» adjective showing lack of trust » adjective not needed or wanted
GH observeScientists observed the experiment.
in something Deer are The floor was covered in
JI look atCome and look at what’s going on in the garden! usually wary of people. waste paper by the time she
finally decided what to write.
cautious, distrustful, leftover, superfluous,
guarded, suspicious, unused
vigilant, chary,
circumspect, heedful wasteful

adjective using something in

» a careless or extravagant way
He has a wasteful habit of
leaving all the lights on.
extravagant, uneconomical,

KL pay attention toThe teacher told her class improvident, profligate,
to pay attention to the board. spendthrift
M view antonym: thrifty
N He viewed the latest videos online.
watch 1
noun a period of time when

» a guard is kept on something
Keep a close watch on the
cake so the dog doesn’t eat it.
observation, supervision,
O see Deer are usually wary of people. surveillance, vigilance,
P We went to see his latest film. watchfulness
wash 1
» verb to clean something watch 2

with water Pete got
Q a job washing dishes. verb to look at something
bathe, cleanse, for some time

launder, rinse, ◀◀ SEE LEFT
scrub, shampoo
watch 3
R wash 2 » verb to look after something
S verb to carry something
You must watch the
T » by the force of water baby carefully.
Large clumps of seaweed guard, look after, mind,

U were washed ashore by take care of
the waves.
carry off, erode,

V sweep away
W waste 1
verb to use too much of
X » something unnecessarily
I wouldn’t waste my
money on junk like that.

Y fritter away, squander,
throw away
Z antonym: save
You must watch the baby carefully.

246

wear out

Watch out for the lamp post! way 2 weaken The guard was wearing a a
» noun the customs or behaviour » verb to make or become blue uniform.
watch out b
» verb to be careful or alert of a person or group I’ll less strong Dad’s difficulty wear 1 c
never get used to these in keeping a straight face » verb to be dressed in
for something Watch out strange foreign ways. weakened his authority. d
for the lamp post! conduct, custom, manner, diminish, fail, flag, lessen, something The guard was e
be alert, be watchful, keep practice, style, reduce, sap, undermine, wearing a blue uniform.
your eyes open, look out idiosyncrasy, wont wane, debilitate, enervate, be clothed in, be dressed f
mitigate in, don, have on, put on, g
waterfall way 3 antonym: strengthen sport (informal)
» noun a place where a river falls » noun a route taken to a h
weakness 1 wear 2 i
over a steep cliff The noise particular place I can’t » noun a lack of physical or j
of the waterfall was deafening. remember the way. verb to become worse in
cascade, cataract, chute, channel, course, lane, moral strength His main k
fall, linn (Scotland) path, road, route weakness is his bad temper. » condition with use or age l
defect, flaw, fragility, frailty, The walls of the old building m
wave 1 weak 1 imperfection, vulnerability, were worn in places. n
» verb to move or flap to and fro » adjective lacking in strength Achilles’ heel, debility, corrode, erode, fray, rub, o
infirmity wash away, abrade, p
The supporters waved Carol felt weak after antonym: strength deteriorate q
their scarves in the air. her illness.
brandish, flap, flourish, delicate, faint, feeble, weakness 2 The walls of the old building r
flutter, shake, oscillate, frail, puny, sickly, wasted, » noun a great liking for were worn in places. s
undulate debilitated, decrepit,
enervated, infirm something Jess has wear 3 t
wave 2 antonym: strong a weakness for chocolate. u
fondness, liking, passion, noun the type of use which v
noun a ridge of water on penchant, partiality, w
predilection » causes something to be x
» the surface of the sea antonym: dislike y
The surfer paddled damaged The old tyres
frantically to catch the wave. wealth 1 showed signs of wear. z
breaker, ripple, swell » noun a large amount of money corrosion, deterioration,
erosion, use, abrasion,
wave 3 Mr Brown used his wealth attrition
» noun an increase in a type of to build several new schools.
affluence, fortune, means, wear out
activity He felt a sudden money, prosperity, riches, » verb to make someone tired
wave of panic at the thought of substance
the exam the next day that he The past few days have
had not prepared for. Carol felt weak after her illness. wealth 2 really worn me out.
flood, movement, rush, » noun a lot of something exhaust, tire, weary
surge, trend, upsurge weak 2
» adjective likely to break or fail She found a wealth of
way 1 information about the artist.
» noun a manner of doing The loft had a weak floor, abundance, bounty, plenty,
so we had to tread carefully. store, copiousness,
something Freezing is an deficient, faulty, inadequate cornucopia, plenitude,
excellent way to preserve food. profusion
approach, manner, means, weak 3 antonym: shortage
method, procedure, » adjective easily influenced by
technique wealthy
other people He is a weak » adjective having plenty of
man who can’t say no to those
around him. money Isabella came from
powerless, spineless, a very wealthy background.
indecisive, irresolute affluent, comfortable,
antonym: resolute opulent, prosperous,
rich, well-to-do
antonym: poor

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weary

A weary well 3 wicked 1
» adverb fully and with » adjective very bad or evil
» adjective very tired She sank
thoroughness She Stealing that watch was
B to the ground, too weary to walk washed her hands well to a wicked thing to do.
another step. get rid of the paint. atrocious, bad, depraved,
amply, closely, completely, evil, sinful, vicious,
C drained, exhausted, fully, highly, meticulously, egregious, iniquitous,
fatigued, tired, tuckered rigorously, thoroughly nefarious
out (Australia and New
well 4 Wet your hands before wicked 2
D Zealand; informal), worn out » adverb in a kind way applying soap.
E weather adjective mischievous in
My boss is a good man wet 3
noun the condition of the and treats his employees well. » verb to put liquid on to » an amusing or attractive way
compassionately, She always felt wicked
F » atmosphere at a certain considerately, favourably, something Wet your hands when eating chocolate in bed.
place and time What’s humanely, kindly, before applying soap. impish, mischievous,
the weather like today? with consideration dampen, irrigate, moisten, naughty
soak, spray, water, drench,
G ▶▶ SEE RIGHT well 5 humidify, saturate wide 1
» adjective having good health antonym: dry
weird adjective measuring a large
I’m feeling very well today. whim
H » adjective strange or odd blooming, fit, healthy, » noun a sudden fancy for » distance from side to side
I dreamt I could fly; in good condition, The river was too wide
in good health, robust, something At the very to cross.
I it was really weird. sound, strong, able-bodied, last minute, we decided on ample, baggy, broad,
bizarre, curious, hale, in fine fettle a whim to go to the zoo. expansive, extensive, full,
antonym: sick craze, fad (informal), fancy, immense, large, roomy,
J extraordinary, funny, odd, impulse, urge, caprice, spacious, sweeping,
peculiar, singular (formal), wet 1 vagary, whimsy vast, voluminous
» adjective in rainy weather antonym: narrow
K strange white
antonym: ordinary conditions It was wide 2
a miserable wet day. noun or adjective » adjective extensive in scope
L well 1 humid, misty, rainy, Shades of white:
M » adverb in a satisfactory way showery alabaster, bleached, chalky, The pencils came in
antonym: dry ivory, milky, pearly, snowy a wide range of colours.
The interview went well, ample, broad, catholic,
so I hope I get in. comprehensive,
encyclopedic, exhaustive,
N satisfactorily, smoothly, extensive, far-ranging,
splendidly, successfully immense, inclusive, large,
vast, wide-ranging
O well 2 whole 1 antonym: narrow
P » adverb with skill and ability » adjective indicating all of
The pencils came in a wide range
She draws well – I wish I something We spent of colours.
had her talent and dedication. the whole summer abroad.
complete, entire, full,
Q ably, adequately, admirably, total, uncut, undivided
competently, effectively,
efficiently, expertly,

R professionally, skilfully,
adeptly, proficiently

S antonym: badly

T

U whole 2
» noun the full amount of
V
something I would love
W She draws well – I wish I had her It was a miserable wet day. to explore the whole of Asia.
X talent and dedication. aggregate, all, everything,
wet 2 lot, sum total, total
» adjective covered in liquid
Y
Keep that wet dog away!
Z damp, drenched, moist,
saturated, soaked, sodden,
waterlogged
antonym: dry

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