Upper-Intermediate wordlist

ENGLISH PoS Definition Pronunciation (UK) Example Unit Page

number number
ability noun the physical or mental skill or qualities that əˈbɪlɪti She definitely has the ability to become a 3 33
you need to do something brilliant actor.
able adjective clever or good at doing something ˈeɪbl̩ She's a very able student. 3 33
accuse sb of sth verb to say that someone has done something əˈkjuːz əv The trial of Rebecca Rivers, who was 8 161
bad accused of theft, is finally over.
ache verb If a part of your body aches, it is painful. eɪk My face was very pale and my head was 9 162
aching.
adventurous adjective willing to try new and often difficult things ədˈventʃərəs People who expect the best are generally 5 57
likely to be ambitious and adventurous.

affect verb to influence someone or something, or əˈfekt Getting richer doesn’t actually affect 4 46
cause them to change how happy you are.
air pollution phrase harmful substances in the air ˈeə pəˌluːʃən This is a 100% sustainable city – it uses 7 82
zero energy and there’s no air pollution.

ambitious adjective wanting to be successful or powerful æmˈbɪʃəs Sheila’s one of those ambitious people 1 154
who’s got lots of plans.
ambitious adjective wanting to be successful or powerful æmˈbɪʃəs People who expect the best are generally 5 57
likely to be ambitious and adventurous.

arduous adjective needing a lot of effort to do ˈɑːdjuəs He described his time at school as 4 48
‘arduous’.
arrest verb If the police arrest someone, they take əˈrest The thieves were seen on CCTV and two 8 161
them away to ask them about a crime suspects were arrested yesterday.
which they might have committed.
arrogant adjective believing that you are better or more ˈærəgənt Shiela's so arrogant about her work. 1 154
important than other people
as a result of phrase because of æz ə rɪˈzʌlt əv They measured how happy people are as 4 46
a result of winning the lottery.
assume verb to think that something is likely to be true, əˈsjuːm He assumed that Rodriguez would be 9 109
although you have no proof dying to tell his story.
astonishing adjective very surprising əˈstɒnɪʃɪŋ All around the bay there are astonishing 6 70
islands made of limestone.
at risk phrase in a situation where something bad is likely ət ˈrɪsk In the UK, large blue butterflies are at 2 25
to happen risk and are protected.
athlete noun someone who is very good at a sport and ˈæθliːt Most of Kenya’s best athletes are from 3 35
who competes with others in organised the Kalenjin tribe.
events
athletic adjective relating to athletes or to the sport of æθˈletɪk His teacher noticed his athletic skills. 3 156
athletics
athletics noun the sports which include running, jumping, æθˈletɪks I know you like athletics, but do you ever 3 156
and throwing take part in competitions?
attack verb to use violence to hurt or damage someone əˈtæk The tiger attacked and killed Markov. 2 25
or something
attic noun a room at the top of a house under the roof ˈætɪk There’s a big attic in my cottage. 7 85

award verb to officially give someone something such əˈwɔːd Referee Eno Koskinen gave Rodriguez a 3 156
as a prize or an amount of money red card and awarded a penalty kick to
Chelsea.
award a grant phrase to give someone a sum of money so that əˌwɔːd ə ˈgrɑːnt The university has decided to award her 8 92
they can do something a grant of £5,000 for her postgraduate
study.
awkward adjective difficult or causing problems ˈɔːkwəd I'm in a really awkward situation. 4 157
basement noun a room or set of rooms that is below ˈbeɪsmənt I was putting up some shelves in the 7 85
ground level in a building basement of my house.
be aware phrase to know about something biː əˈweə He was aware that he might not be able 9 109
to finish the film.
be lost phrase If something good is lost, it stops biː ˈlɒst Face-to-face contact has been lost in this 6 71
happening or existing. store.
boot noun a strong shoe that covers your foot and buːt The tiger dragged Markov into the forest 2 25
part of your leg and ate him, leaving only his boots.
break into sth verb to get into a building by force, usually to breɪk ˈɪntuː Thieves broke into a jeweller’s shop and 8 161
steal something stole £5,000 worth of jewellery and
watches.
breathtaking adjective very beautiful or surprising ˈbreθˌteɪkɪŋ Some of the islands are really quite 6 70
breathtaking.
bribe noun money or a present given to someone so braɪb The doorkeeper asked us for a bribe. 8 97
that they will do something for you, usually
something dishonest
bribery noun when someone is offered money or a ˈbraɪbəri There was a real problem with bribery 8 97
present so that they will do something, and corruption in local government.
usually something dishonest
brilliance noun great skill or intelligence ˈbrɪliəns We admired his brilliance at art. 3 33
brilliant adjective very good ˈbrɪliənt Without a doubt, there are people who 3 33
are brilliant at certain things.
broadcast verb to send out a programme on television or ˈbrɔːdkɑːst Any big international sports event is 7 160
radio broadcast live all around the world.
bruise noun a dark area on your skin where you have bruːz There’s quite a large bruise on my 9 162
been hurt forehead.
budget noun a plan that shows how much money you ˈbʌdʒɪt 57% of households inthe USA don’t have 8 92
have and how you will spend it any kind of budget.
bump verb to hurt part of your body by hitting it bʌmp Last night I bumped my head against the 9 162
against something hard kitchen cupboard door.
bungalow noun a house that has all its rooms on the ˈbʌŋgələʊ They live in a bungalow. 7 85
ground floor
burglar noun someone who gets into buildings illegally ˈbɜːglə The burglar didn’t realise there was a 8 97
and steals things cat at home.
burglary noun when someone gets into a building illegally ˈbɜːgləri There have been a lot of burglaries in 8 97
and steals things our neighbourhood of late.
burgle verb to get into a building illegally and steal ˈbɜːgl̩ Sarah's flat was burgled. 8 97
things
can't get over sth phrase to be very shocked or surprised about kɑːnt get ˈəʊvə I couldn’t get over just how strong these 2 20
something animals are.
capture verb to show or describe something successfully ˈkæptʃə As she walked through the front door, 7 160
using words or pictures her look of complete surprise was
captured on film.
carbon footprint noun Someone's carbon footprint is a ˌkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt We’re going to change our energy supply 5 60
measurement of the amount of carbon to solar energy to reduce our carbon
dioxide that their activities produce. footprint.
care for sb verb to look after someone, especially someone ˈkeə fɔː They think a computer tablet will help to 9 105
who is young, old, or ill care for people.
cast noun all the actors in a film or play kɑːst The film had a small cast. 7 84
cause verb to make something happen kɔːz The idea that winning a lot of money 4 46
causes misery is actually a myth.
cautious adjective taking care to avoid risks or danger ˈkɔːʃəs People who expect the worst are likely to 5 57
be more cautious.
cellar noun a room under the floor of a building ˈselə We store our potatoes in the cellar. 7 85
challenge verb to test your ability or determination ˈtʃælɪndʒ Giving a presentation in front of 50 4 157
people really challenged me.
champion noun a person, animal, or team that wins a ˈtʃæmpiən He was a champion cross-country skier. 3 36
competition
championship noun a competition to find the best team or ˈtʃæmpiənʃɪp After only eight months of training, 3 156
player in a particular game or sport Thomas won the world championships.
cheat noun someone who cheats tʃiːt She’s a cheat and is always copying my 8 97
ideas and work.
cheat verb to behave in a way that is not honest or fair tʃiːt He cheated in the exam. 8 97
in order to win something or to get
something
cheating noun behaving in a way that is not honest or fair tʃiːtɪŋ There was a lot of cheating in the exam. 8 97
in order to win something or to get
something
cheer verb to shout loudly in order to show your tʃɪə The spectators cheered Rodriguez as he 3 156
approval or to encourage someone left the pitch.
chimney noun a wide pipe that allows smoke from a fire ˈtʃɪmni The house has very tall chimneys. 7 85
to go out through the roof
climate change noun the way the Earth's weather is changing ˈklaɪmɪt ˌtʃeɪndʒ Most scientists agree that irregular 5 60
weather patterns are evidence of global
warming and climate change.
come down with verb to get an illness kʌm ˈdaʊn wɪð I feel terrible. I’ve come down with the 9 105
sth flu.
come to the phrase to reach an opinion after considering all ˌkʌm tə ðə kənˈkluːʒən The director had come to the conclusion 9 109
conclusion the facts about something that this really was a story worth telling.

compete verb to take part in a race or competition kəmˈpiːt Sportspeople don't always get paid a lot 3 156
to compete.
competition noun an organised event in which people try to ˌkɒmpəˈtɪʃən There are six runners in the competition. 3 156
win a prize by being the best, fastest, etc
competitive adjective involving competition kəmˈpetɪtɪv Sports like handball are very competitive. 3 156

competitive adjective wanting to win or to be more successful kəmˈpetɪtɪv My sister is very competitive - she wants 5 158
than other people to be the best at everything.
competitor noun a person, team, or company that is kəmˈpetɪtə He beat his closest competitor by forty 3 36
competing with others seconds.

construction noun something large that is built kənˈstrʌkʃən The whole island is like a museum of 6 159
breathtaking wooden constructions.
cope with sth verb to deal successfully with a difficult situation ˈkəʊp wɪð She coped well with the primitive living 10 121
conditions.
cottage noun a small house, usually in the countryside ˈkɒtɪdʒ There’s a big attic in my cottage. 7 85
cough verb to make air come out of your throat with a kɒf I was coughing and sneezing all day. 9 106
short sound
court noun the place where a judge decides whether kɔːt The men will appear in court on 8 161
someone is guilty of a crime Wednesday.
creature noun anything that lives but is not a plant ˈkriːtʃə Imagine a creature that’s as active as a 2 25
cat and has the weight of an industrial
refrigerator.
credible adjective able to be trusted or believed ˈkred.ɪ.bl̩ I don't think his explanation is credible. 10 163

critical adjective saying that someone or something is bad or ˈkrɪtɪkəl Some of my family say I’m too critical 5 158
wrong and I only see the bad things in them.
cure verb to make someone with an illness healthy kjʊə This simple pill can cure cancer. 9 105
again
cut verb to remove part of a film or piece of writing kʌt He appeared in only one short scene of 7 160
the film, but that was cut after filming
finished.
debit an account phrase to take money out of a bank account ˌdebɪt ən əˈkaʊnt Every month, the bank debits my 8 92
account with about £15 in fees.
debt noun an amount of money that you owe someone det The UK population has a total credit 8 92
card debt as high as £80 billion.
decline noun when something becomes less in amount, dɪˈklaɪn There has been a gradual decline in 6 71
importance, quality, or strength student numbers.
decline verb to become less in amount, importance, dɪˈklaɪn The number of minority languages is 6 71
quality, or strength declining.
decrease noun when something becomes less ˈdi:kriːs There’s an obvious decrease in reading 6 71
newspapers.
decrease verb to become less, or to make something dɪˈkriːs The number of different English dialects 6 71
become less is slowly decreasing.
delicate adjective needing to be dealt with very carefully ˈdelɪkət It’s a very delicate subject and I’m not 4 157
sure what to say exactly.
demanding adjective needing a lot of your time, attention, or dɪˈmɑːndɪŋ My final exams at university were really 4 157
effort demanding.
detached adjective A detached building is not joined to dɪˈtætʃt It would be good to live in a nice 7 85
another building. detached house instead of my flat!
deteriorate verb to become worse dɪˈtɪəriəreɪt My relationship with my boss began to 6 71
deteriorate.
deterioration noun the fact of becoming worse dɪˌtɪəriəˈreɪʃən In the past few years I’ve noticed there’s 6 71
been a deterioration in service in this
store.
determined adjective wanting to do something very much, and dɪˈtɜːmɪnd She was really determined, but in a quiet 1 10
not letting anyone stop you way.
develop verb to start to have something, such as an dɪˈveləp People who eat too much fatty food are 9 105
illness, problem, or feeling likely to develop heart disease.
die out verb to stop existing daɪ ˈaʊt Many languages are in danger of dying 6 71
out.
disappear verb to stop existing or to become impossible to ˌdɪsəˈpɪə The ship disappeared at sea. 6 71
see
disappearance noun when something stops existing or becomes ˌdɪsəˈpɪərəns You can see the disappearance of 6 71
impossible to see smaller languages all the time.
dishonest adjective not honest and likely to lie or do something dɪˈsɒnɪst Alex is a bit dishonest. 10 163
illegal
disorganised adjective not good at planning or organising things dɪˈsɔːɡənaɪzd My brother Nick is very disorganised – 5 158
his desk is a mess and he can never find
anything.
dissatisfied adjective not pleased or happy with something ˌdɪsˈsætɪsfaɪd My friend recommended the hotel but I 10 163
was very dissatisfied.
dizzy adjective feeling like everything is turning round, so ˈdɪzi I felt really dizzy. 9 162
that you feel ill or as if you might fall
donate to a phrase to give money to an organisation that gives dəʊˌneɪt tuː ə ˈtʃærɪti Why don’t you donate the money to a 8 92
charity money, food, or help to people who need it charity like Save the Children?

donation noun when money or goods are given to help a dəʊˈneɪʃən In Australia, there has been a 46% 8 92
person or organisation increase in online donations made to
charities.
doubt verb to feel uncertain about something or think daʊt Most people doubted that he could be a 9 109
that something is not probable superstar in one country when no one
else had heard of him.
dramatic adjective exciting and impressive drəˈmætɪk Ha Long Bay is dramatic and beautiful. 6 70

ecological impact phrase the effect that something has on the ˌiːkəlɒdʒɪkəl ˈɪmpækt When the steam engine was invented, 5 60
environment not many would have thought about the
ecological impact of burning so much
coal.
editor noun someone whose job is to prepare text, film, ˈedɪtə After filming, the editor began the work 7 160
etc by deciding what to include and making of choosing the best shots and putting
mistakes correct together the film.
effect noun a change, reaction, or result that is caused ɪˈfekt Getting married has had a positive effect 4 46
by something on him.
endangered adj Endangered plants and animals may soon ɪnˈdeɪndʒəd In North America, red wolves are 2 25
not exist because there are very few now considered an endangered species.
alive.
environment noun the air, land and water where people, ɪnˈvaɪrənmənt Humans and tigers hunt the same 2 25
animals and plants live animals and share the same
environment.
environmentally adjective not damaging the environment ɪnˌvaɪərənˌmentəli Travelling by train is slower but it’s far 5 60
friendly ˈfrendli more environmentally-friendly than
going by plane.
episode noun one programme of a series shown on ˈepɪsəʊd The first episode of the series is on 7 160
television Thursday.
estimate verb to guess the cost, size, value, etc of ˈestɪmeɪt People estimated he’d sold about 1.5 9 109
something million records in South Africa.
exceptional adjective extremely good ɪkˈsepʃənəl Those who became exceptional 3 33
musicians practised about two thousand
hours more than those who only did well.

exotic adjective unusual, interesting, and often foreign ɪgˈzɒtɪk Hanoi is a busy city, but there are lots of 6 70
more exotic places you can escape to in
Vietnam.
expected adjective If something is expected, you think that it ɪkˈspektɪd He discovered that his new job was even 10 163
will happen. better than expected.
experienced adjective having skill and knowledge because you ɪkˈspɪəriənst William was an experienced and 10 163
have done something many times responsible employee with regular
working hours.
extinct adjective If a type of animal is extinct, it does not ɪkˈstɪŋkt The New Zealand moa bird has been 2 25
now exist. extinct for about six hundred years.

faint verb to suddenly become unconscious for a feɪnt I think I’m going to faint. 9 106
short time, usually falling down onto the
floor
feature noun a typical quality, or important part of ˈfiːtʃə The most amazing feature you can see 6 159
something here is the nearby volcano.
fence noun a wood, wire, or metal structure that fens We had had our fence painted red. 7 85
divides or goes around an area
finance a project phrase to provide the money needed to do a ˌfaɪnæns ə ˈprɒdʒekt Local businesses agreed to finance a 8 92
particular piece of work project to increase the number of trees
in the city’s parks.
forest noun a large area of trees growing closely ˈfɒrɪst While Markov was away hunting, the 2 25
together tiger found its way to his hut in the
forest.
formal adjective used about clothes, language, and ˈfɔːməl William explained in a formal and polite 10 163
behaviour that are serious and not friendly manner that he was not satisfied with
or relaxed his situation.
fortunate adjective lucky ˈfɔːtʃənət William felt like a very fortunate man. 10 163
fragile phrase the air, land and water where people, ˌfrædʒaɪl If there is an oil spill from a ship, it will 5 60
environment animals and plants live and which is very ɪnˈvaɪrənmənt damage the fragile marine environment
easy to damage in this bay.
get a bit carried phrase to be so excited about something that you get ə bɪt ˌkærid əˈweɪ We all got a bit carried away and 2 155
away do not control what you say or do decided a direct approach would be the
best one.
get away verb to go somewhere, especially for a holiday get əˈweɪ I can’t wait to get away. 2 20
get hold of sth phrase to start holding something or someone get ˈhəʊld əv The boat was sinking, but we all 2 20
managed to gethold of a life-jacket.

get into trouble phrase to be in a difficult or dangerous situation get ɪntə ˈtrʌbl̩ Actually, I got into a bit of trouble once. 2 20

get involved phrase to do things and be part of an activity or get ɪnˈvɒlvd Now the club is much more interesting 2 155
event and lots of new people have got involved.

get on sb's nerves phrase to annoy someone a lot get ɒn sʌmwʌn ˈnɜːvz My son’s really getting on my nerves at 2 155
the moment.
get on with sth verb to continue to do something or experience get ˈɒn wɪð Although she got on with her life, she 10 121
something never forgot her dream.
get over sth verb to begin to feel better after being unhappy get ˈəʊvə They were exhausted and hungry, but 2 20
or ill after some food and sleep they soon got
over the experience.
get over sth verb to begin to feel better after being unhappy get ˈəʊvə I don’t want to go out yet. I’m still 9 105
or ill getting over a heavy cold.
get rid of sb phrase to make someone leave get ˈrɪd əv We tried to work out a way to get rid of 2 155
the man running the club.
get sb down verb to make someone feel unhappy get ˈdaʊn My son just won’t listen and it’s getting 2 155
me down.
get sb's attention phrase to make someone notice you get sʌmwʌnz əˈtenʃən She ran out on the road to get the 2 20
policeman’s attention.
get sth across to verb to successfully communicate information get əˈkrɒs tuː I can’t get across to my son the 2 155
sb to other people importance of doing well at school.
get straight to phrase to say what you want to say without get ˌstreɪt tə ðə ˈpɔɪnt Look, I’ll get straight to the point. I think 2 155
the point talking about anything else first the social club’s getting a bit boring and
we need some fresh ideas.
get swept away phrase to be carried out to sea by a wave get ˌswept əˈweɪ The boat got swept away by the wave. 2 20
get the feeling phrase to think that something may be true get ðə ˈfiːlɪŋ I got the feeling I was being pulled out to 2 20
sea.
get through sth verb to deal with a difficult experience get ˈθruː My son got through his exams very easily 2 155
successfully last year without studying.
get to do sth verb to have an opportunity to do something ˈget tə I’ve always wanted to learn how to surf 2 20
and I’ll finally get to do it.
give evidence phrase to give information and answer questions ˌgɪv ˈevɪdəns Around 50 witnesses were called to give 8 161
in a court of law evidence.
give sth up verb to stop doing something before you have gɪv ˈʌp Often if we try something new, we give 1 12
completed it, usually because it is too up after about a week or two because
difficult our brain hasn’t adapted.
give sth up verb to stop doing something before you have gɪv ˈʌp She had to give up the swim after 29 10 121
completed it, usually because it is too hours.
difficult
global warming noun when the air around the world becomes ˌgləʊbəl ˈwɔːmɪŋ Most scientists agree that irregular 5 60
warmer because of pollution weather patterns are evidence of global
warming and climate change.
go ahead with sth verb to start to do something gəʊ əˈhed wɪð She felt the time was right to go ahead 10 121
with an application to the Peace Corps.

gruelling adjective Gruelling activities are very difficult and ˈgruːəlɪŋ Jackie Chan’s training was gruelling. 4 48
make you very tired.
guilty adjective having broken a law ˈgɪlti The jury gave a verdict of guilty. 8 161
habitat noun the natural environment of an animal or ˈhæbɪtæt It’s possible to find many Chinese 2 25
plant alligators in zoos and research centres,
but there are fewer living in their
have a go at phrase to do something to see if you like it or if hæv ə ˈgəʊ ət You can take time out and have a go at 1 12
you can do it something you’ve always wanted to do.

have an phrase to cause a change, reaction or result hæv ən ɪˈfekt ɒn Suddenly having a lot of money is just as 4 46
(positive/negativ likely to have a positive effect on you as
e) effect on a negative effect.
heal verb If a wound or broken bone heals, it hiːl The substance can be used to heal 9 105
becomes healthy again, and if something wounds.
heals it, it makes it healthy again.
hiking noun the activity of walking in the countryside ˈhaɪkɪŋ If you would like to go hiking, there are 6 159
trails of different levels of difficulty.

honest adjective sincere and telling the truth ˈɒnɪst William was happy that he had been 10 163
honest with himself and followed his
heart.
hunt verb to chase and kill wild animals hʌnt While Markov was away hunting, the 2 25
tiger found its way to his hut in the
forest and broke in through the door.
hut noun a small, simple building, often made of hʌt While Markov was away hunting, the 2 25
wood tiger found its way to his hut in the
forest and broke in through the door.
illegal adjective not allowed by law ɪˈliːgəl The police discovered her illegal use of 10 163
company funds.
impatient adjective wanting something to happen as soon as ɪmˈpeɪʃənt She’s very good with young children, but 10 163
possible she can get a bit impatient with
teenagers.
impolite adjective not polite ˌɪmpəlˈaɪt He left without saying goodbye – that’s 10 163
very impolite.
impossible adjective If an action or event is impossible, it cannot ɪmˈpɒsɪbl̩ It seems impossible that Robertson 10 118
happen or be done. didn’t know in advance what was going
to happen.
impressive adjective Someone or something that is impressive ɪmˈpresɪv The volcano really is quite impressive. 6 70
makes you admire and respect them.
improbable adjective not likely to be true or to happen ɪmˈprɒbəbl̩ The similarities between Robertson’s 10 118
work and the Titanic disaster are really
improbable.
income noun money that you earn by working, investing, ˈɪnkʌm On average, households in the UK 8 92
or producing goods manage to save just under 8% of their
annual income.
increase verb to get bigger or to make something bigger ɪnˈkriːs The number of bilingual children has 6 71
in size or amount increased over the last 50 years.
increase noun when the number, size, or amount of ˈɪnkriːs There has been a steady increase in 6 71
something gets bigger world literacy.
incredible adjective too strange to be believed ɪnˈkredɪbl̩ The incredible thing is that Robertson’s 10 118
The Wreck of the Titan was published 14
years before the Titanic was even built.

inexperienced adjective without much experience or knowledge of ˌɪnɪkˈspɪəriənst Sally was still quite inexperienced. 10 163
something
infection noun a disease in a part of your body that is ɪnˈfekʃən The doctor said my illness was probably 9 162
caused by bacteria or a virus just an infection.
influence verb to affect or change how someone or ˈɪnfluəns Does suddenly having a lot of money 4
something develops, behaves, or thinks really influence people’s behaviour?
influence noun the power to affect how someone thinks or ˈɪnfluəns Winning doesn’t usually have a negative 4
behaves, or how something develops influence on people.
informal adjective relaxed and friendly ɪnˈfɔːməl Sally got some informal advice from her 10 163
old teacher at college.
inspiring adjective giving you new ideas and making you feel ɪnˈspaɪərɪŋ She is an inspiring woman. 1 10
you want to do something
interest rate noun the per cent of an amount of money which ˈɪntrəst ˌreɪt Half of Australians don’t know the 8 92
is charged or paid by a bank or other interest rate on their credit card.
financial company
investment noun the money that you put in a bank, business, ɪnˈvestmənt A survey in the USA showed that only 8 92
etc in order to make a profit 53% of people understand how to make
irregular adjective Irregular actions or events happen with a ɪˈregjələ She was dissatisfied with her job, 10 163
different amount of time between each one. especially the irregular hours.

irrelevant adjective not important in a particular situation ɪˈrelɪvənt These details are irrelevant to the story. 10 118

irresponsible adjective not thinking about the possible bad results ˌɪrɪˈspɒnsɪbl̩ I like my other cousin, Becky, but she can 5 158
of what you are doing be quite irresponsible.
irresponsible adjective not thinking about the possible bad results ˌɪrɪˈspɒnsɪbl̩ It was irresponsible of Karen to leave the 10 163
of what you are doing documents in an unlocked car.
judge noun someone who controls a trial in court, dʒʌdʒ The judge sentenced Ms. Rivers to five 8 161
decides how criminals should be punished, years in prison.
and makes decisions about legal things

jury noun a group of people in a court of law who ˈdʒʊəri The jury gave a verdict of guilty. 8 161
decide if someone is guilty or not
keep it up phrase to continue without stopping or changing kiːp ɪt ˈʌp Maybe you wouldn’t want to keep the 1 12
exercise regime up for your whole life,
but it might be fun to do it just for 30
days.
keep to sth verb to do what you have promised or planned ˈkiːp tuː If you manage to do something new for a 1 12
to do month, you’ll probably keep to it.
kidnap verb to take someone away using force, usually ˈkɪdnæp The racehorse was kidnapped. 8 97
to obtain money in exchange for releasing
them
kidnapper noun a person who kidnaps someone ˈkɪdnæpə The kidnapper brought back the baby 8 97
when it started crying.
kidnapping noun when someone is kidnapped ˈkɪdnæpɪŋ There have been several kidnappings in 8 97
the city.
kill verb to cause someone or something to die kɪl The tiger attacked and killed Markov. 2 25
lead verb to be winning a game liːd During that race, he led from the start. 3 156

lead to sth verb to cause something to happen ˈliːd tuː Of course people like to believe that 4 46
winning money leads to disaster.
legal adjective relating to the law or allowed by law ˈliːgəl William was working as a legal adviser. 10 163

liar noun someone who tells lies laɪə She called me a liar. 8 97
lie verb to say or write something that is not true in laɪ He lied about his qualifications. 8 97
order to deceive someone
lobby noun a room at the main entrance of a building, ˈlɒbi High tea is served every afternoon 6 159
often with doors and stairs that lead to between 2.00 pm and 4.00 pm in the
other parts of the building lobby opposite reception.
local residents phrase people who live in a particular area ˌləʊkəl ˈrezɪdənts The city uses technology to improve the 7 82
quality of life of the local residents.
lose phrase to stop being awake and able to think and ˌluːz ˈkɒnʃəsnəs I collapsed on the ground and lost 9 162
consciousness notice things consciousness.
loyal adjective always liking and supporting someone or ˈlɔɪəl Fred’s been a very loyal member of our 1 154
something, sometimes when other people staff,
do not
lying noun the act of saying or writing something that ˈlaɪɪŋ They accused him of lying. 8 97
is not true in order to deceive someone

make a living phrase to earn enough money to pay for the things ˌmeɪk ə ˈlɪvɪŋ I don’t know how he manages to make a 8 92
you need living from his café.
make an effort phrase to try very hard to achieve something meɪk ən ˈefət Obviously to do something like learning 1 12
the violin you need to make an effort.

make sure (that) phrase to take action so that you are certain that meɪk ˈʃɔː He wanted to make sure that Rodriguez 9 109
something happens, is true, etc really was that popular in South Africa.

manage verb to do something or deal with something ˈmænɪdʒ If you manage to do something new for a 1 12
successfully month, you’ll probably keep to it.
mattress noun the soft, comfortable part of a bed that you ˈmætrəs The tiger took Markov’s mattress outside. 2 25
lie on
memorable adjective If an occasion is memorable, you will ˈmemərəbl̩ Going to Russia was the most 6 70
remember it for a long time because it is so memorable holiday I’ve ever had.
good.
motivated adjective enthusiastic about doing something ˈməʊtɪˌveɪtɪd Well, you’ve always been motivated, 1 10
that’s for sure.
murder noun the crime of intentionally killing someone ˈmɜːdə He was accused of murder. 8 97

murder verb to kill someone intentionally and illegally ˈmɜːdə It's a horrible prison where the prisoners 8 97
murder one another.
murderer noun someone who has committed murder ˈmɜːdərə The main suspect was not the murderer 8 97
but someone else.
naive adjective If someone is naive, they believe things too naɪˈiːv If Shiela thinks she's going to become 1 154
easily and do not have enough experience team leader this quickly, she’s really
of the world. naive!
natural adjective Something that is natural exists or happens ˈnætʃərəl It’s possible to find many Chinese 2 25
because of nature, not because it was made alligators in zoos and research centres,
or done by people. but there are fewer living in their
natural habitat.
not get anywhere phrase to not make any progress nɒt get ˈeniweə They felt like they weren't getting 2 20
anywhere.
not have any idea phrase to not know and not be able to guess nɒt hæv ˌeni aɪˈdɪə He didn’t have any idea who the men 9 109
were.
optimistic adjective always believing that good things will ˌɒptɪˈmɪstɪk Fred’s always optimistic, even when he 1 154
happen comes across problems in his work.
optimistic adjective always believing that good things will ˌɒptɪˈmɪstɪk Most people are optimistic about their 5 57
happen own strengths and abilities.
outskirts plural the areas that form the edge of a town or ˈaʊtskɜːts There are waterfalls on the outskirts of 6 159
noun city the city.
outstanding adjective excellent and much better than most ˌaʊtˈstændɪŋ When you look at all the people who are 3 33
outstanding at what they do, all you see
is natural ability.
overcome verb to deal with and control a problem or ˌəʊvəˈkʌm She had to overcome the negative 10 121
feeling attitude of her all-male classmates.
pale adjective If your face is pale, it has less colour than peɪl My face was very pale and my head was 9 162
usual because you are ill or frightened. aching.
parking space phrase a place where someone can park a car ˈpɑːkɪŋ ˌspeɪs The system tells drivers where they can 7 82
find a free parking space.
pass out verb to become unconscious pɑːs ˈaʊt I thought I was going to pass out, but I 9 106
managed to crawl into bed.
passage noun a long, narrow space that connects one ˈpæsɪdʒ We walked through the passage to the 7 85
place to another next street.
passionate adjective showing a strong belief in something or a ˈpæʃənət Fred’s passionate about alternative 1 154
strong feeling about a subject energies.
patient adjective having patience ˈpeɪʃənt William was not a patient man. 10 163
pay sth off verb to pay back all of the money that you owe peɪ ˈɒf 85% of students in England will never 8 92
fully pay off their student loans.
perform verb to do a job or a piece of work pəˈfɔːm Mäntyranta had about 65% more red 3 35
blood cells than the normal adult male
and that’s why he performed so well.
performance noun how successful someone or something is pəˈfɔːməns She gave her best ever performance at 3 156
the Olympic Games.
performer noun someone who entertains people pəˈfɔːmə The best performers all train really hard. 3 156

pitch noun an area of ground where a sport is played pɪtʃ The spectators cheered Rodriguez as he 3 156
left the pitch.
polite adjective behaving in a way that is not rude and pəˈlaɪt William explained in a formal and polite 10 163
shows that you do not only think about manner that he was not satisfied with
yourself his situation.
potential noun qualities or abilities that may develop and pəˈtenʃəl He has lots of potential to succeed in his 3 33
allow someone or something to succeed career.

presenter noun someone who introduces a radio or prɪˈzentə He's a presenter on children's TV. 7 160
television programme
preservation noun when you keep something the same or ˌprezəˈveɪʃən The survival of languages means the 6 71
prevent it from being damaged or preservation of cultures.
preserve verb to keep something the same or prevent it prɪˈzɜːv Educating children may help to preserve 6 71
from being damaged or destroyed a language.
probable adjective likely to be true or to happen ˈprɒb.ə.bl̩ It's probable that he'll lose his job. 10 163
profession noun a type of work that needs special training prəˈfeʃən For most people, sport is a hobby, not a 3 156
or education profession.
professional adjective Someone is professional if they earn prəˈfeʃənəl Professional baseball players often have 3 35
money for a sport or activity which most remarkable eyesight.
people do as a hobby.
protected adjective Protected plants and animals are kept safe prəˈtektɪd In the UK, large blue butterflies are at 2 25
by laws. risk and are protected.
public transport phrase a system of vehicles such as buses and ˌpʌblɪk ˈtrænspɔːt To use the public transport system you 7 82
trains that operate at regular times and on just need a single card.
fixed routes and are used by the public.

punishing adjective very difficult and making you tired ˈpʌnɪʃɪŋ The training was punishing. 4 48

put aside savings phrase to keep some of the money that you get or ˌpʊt əsaɪd ˈseɪvɪŋz Since she started work, she hasn’t put 8 92
earn aside any savings.
quality of life phrase the level of enjoyment, comfort, and health ˌkwɒlɪti əv ˈlaɪf The city uses technology to improve the 7 82
in someone's life quality of life of the local residents.
rare adjective very unusual reə In Australia, just over 20 per cent of the 2 25
native plants are considered rare and
need to be conserved.
realise verb to notice or understand something that you ˈrɪəlaɪz He realised that Rodriguez’s story was 9 109
did not notice or understand before the one to tell.
realistic adjective accepting the true facts of a situation and ˌrɪəˈlɪstɪk We are much more optimistic than 5 57
not basing decisions on things that will not realistic and frequently imagine things
happen will turn out better than they actually do.
referee noun someone who makes sure that players ˌrefəˈriː Referee Eno Koskinen gave Rodriguez a 3 156
follow the rules during a sports game red card and awarded a penalty kick to
Chelsea.
regular adjective repeated with the same amount of time or ˈregjʊlə William was an experienced and 10 163
space between one thing and the next responsible employee with regular
working hours.
release verb to make a record or film available for rɪˈliːs The first Star Wars film was released in 7 160
people to buy or see 1977.
reliable adjective able to be trusted or believed rɪˈlaɪəbl̩ We should try to find reliable charities 5 158
and make an effort to help poorer
countries.
remarkable adjective very unusual or noticeable in a way that rɪˈmɑːkəbl̩ For some history and some really 6 70
you admire remarkable scenery, Uruapan is a good
choice.
represent verb to be the person from a country, school, etc ˌreprɪˈzent Jack Taylor will once again represent 3 156
that is in a competition Australia at next year’s Olympics.
residential areas phrase areas in a town or city where people live ˌrezɪdenʃəl ˈeəriəz From all the residential areas there’s a 7 82
fifteen-minute walk across the park to
get to work.
respected adjective admired by people because of your rɪˈspektɪd She’s a respected physicist. 1 10
knowledge, achievements, etc
responsible adjective showing good judgment and able to be rɪˈspɒnsɪbl̩ We need someone responsible for this job. 5 158
trusted
responsible adjective showing good judgment and able to be rɪˈspɒnsɪbl̩ William was an experienced and 10 163
trusted responsible employee with regular
working hours.
result in sth verb to be the reason something happens rɪˈzʌlt ɪn Spending money on experiences usually 4 46
results longer-term happiness.
revival noun when something becomes more active or rɪˈvaɪvəl The language wasn't heard on the island 6 71
popular again for years before its revival began.

revive verb to make something from the past exist rɪˈvaɪv I wish they'd revive the tradition of 6 71
again chatting with customers.
rigorous adjective careful to look at or consider every part of ˈrɪgərəs Those lucky enough to be selected go 4 48
something to make sure it is correct or safe through rigorous training.

rob verb to steal from someone or somewhere, often rɒb They tried to rob a bank. 8 97
using violence
robber noun someone who steals ˈrɒbə The police caught the robbers. 8 97
robbery noun the crime of stealing from someone or ˈrɒbəri They were both probably involved in the 8 97
somewhere robbery.
rough weather phrase bad weather, especially storms ˌrʌf ˈweðə Our boat trip was cancelled due to rough 5 60
weather.
satisfied adjective pleased because you have got what you ˈsætɪsfaɪd William explained in a formal and polite 10 163
wanted, or because something has manner that he was not satisfied with
happened in the way that you wanted his situation.
savings plural money that you have saved ˈseɪvɪŋz You can make savings of about £69,500 8 92
noun over a lifetime by taking a packed lunch
to work.
scar noun a permanent mark left on the body from a skɑː I didn’t cut myself badly, so I won’t have 9 162
cut or other injury a scar.
script noun the words in a film, play, etc skrɪpt It’s a very well-written film with a great 7 84
script.
self-confident adjective feeling sure about yourself and your ˌselfˈkɒnfɪdənt Fred’s self-confident, so he is never 1 154
abilities afraid to work independently.
semi-detached adjective A semi-detached house has one wall that is ˌsemidɪˈtætʃt They live in a semi-detached house. 7 85
joined to another house.
sensitive adjective easily upset by the things people say or do ˈsensɪtɪv Shiela's incredibly sensitive to criticism. 1 154

sentence verb to give a punishment to someone who has ˈsentəns The judge sentenced Ms. Rivers to five 8 161
committed a crime years in prison.
series noun a group of television or radio programmes ˈsɪəriːz The longest-running science fiction TV 7 160
that have the same main characters or deal series is the British production Doctor
with the same subject Who.
setting noun the place where something is or where ˈsetɪŋ In many ways it’s the perfect setting for 6 159
something happens, often in a book, play, a house.
or film
shiver verb to shake because you are cold or frightened ˈʃɪvə I felt dizzy and I started to shiver. 9 106

shoot verb to injure or kill a person or animal by firing ʃuːt The hunter shot the tiger and wounded it. 2 25
a bullet from a gun at them
shoplift verb to steal things from a shop ˈʃɒplɪft If you shoplift, you will get caught 8 97
eventually.
shoplifter noun someone who steals things from a shop ˈʃɒpˌlɪftɪŋ The shop assistant looks out for 8 97
shoplifters.
shoplifting noun stealing things from a shop ˈʃɒpˌlɪftɪŋ It was Lisa's first experience of 8 97
shoplifting.
shot noun a photograph or piece of film ʃɒt The film opens with a long shot of the 7 84
main character walking along the edge
of a cliff.
skilled adjective having the abilities needed to do an activity skɪld It takes a lot of practice to become really 3 33
or job well skilled.
sneeze verb When you sneeze, air suddenly comes out sniːz I've got a bad cough and I sneeze a lot. 9 106
through your nose and mouth.
solar energy noun energy that uses the power of the sun ˌsəʊlər ˈenədʒi We’re going to change our energy supply 5 60
to solar energy to reduce our carbon
footprint.
soundtrack noun the music used in a film ˈsaʊndtræk I loved everything about the film except 7 84
for the soundtrack – too much jazz for
my taste.
species noun a group of plants or animals which share ˈspiːʃiːz In North America, red wolves are 2 25
similar characteristics considered an endangered species.
spectator noun someone who watches an event, sport, etc spekˈteɪtə The spectators weren’t at all happy with 3 156
the decision and cheered Rodriguez as he
left the pitch.
steal verb to secretly take something that does not stiːl Thieves broke into a jeweller’s shop and 8 97
belong to you, without intending to return stole £5,000 worth of jewellery and
it watches.
straightforward adjective easy to do or understand ˌstreɪtˈfɔːwəd I thought connecting my new printer to 4 157
my computer would be easy but actually
it’s not straightforward at all.
strain verb to injure part of your body by using it too streɪn I can’t stand up for very long, because 9 105
much I’ve strained my back.
stretch verb to make you learn new things that use your stretʃ Learning a programming language 4 157
skill and experience more than you have really stretched me.
done before
strict adjective If a rule, law, etc is strict, it must be obeyed. strɪkt Discipline was very strict. 4 48

struggle noun something that is very difficult to do ˈstrʌgl̩ I'm finding it a struggle to get my work 4 157
done.
stubborn adjective determined not to change your ideas, ˈstʌbən You’ve always been motivated, that’s for 1 10
plans, etc, although other people want you sure. And stubborn.
to
studio noun a room where an artist or photographer ˈstjuːdiəʊ We recommend a visit to the studio 6 159
works where the artist worked.
stunning adjective very beautiful ˈstʌnɪŋ The whole island is like a museum of 6 70
stunning wooden constructions.
successful adjective having achieved a lot or made a lot of səkˈsesfəl Michael Johnson is one of the most 3 33
money through your work successful professional athletes of all
time.
successfully adverb in a way that achieves what you want to səkˈsesfəli They’re all about half-way through the 1 12
achieve course and they’ve done it successfully so
far.
superb adjective excellent suːˈpɜːb We loved Vietnam – the people were 6 70
great and the food was superb.
suspect noun someone who may have committed a crime ˈsʌspekt The thieves were seen on CCTV and two 8 161
suspects were arrested yesterday.
sympathetic adjective showing that you understand and care ˌsɪmpəˈθetɪk My grandmother is a very sympathetic 5 158
about someone's problems person – you can go to her if you’re in
trouble and she’ll always listen and
make you feel better.
tackle verb to try to do something difficult ˈtækl̩ She decided to tackle this challenging 10 121
swim.
talent noun a natural ability to do something ˈtælənt She’s got a real talent for drawing. 3 33
talented adjective showing natural ability in a particular area ˈtæləntɪd He’s very talented at playing the guitar. 3 33

terminal noun a building where you can get onto an ˈtɜːmɪnəl Remember to tell your taxi driver which 6 159
aircraft, bus, or ship terminal your flight’s leaving from.

terrace noun a flat area outside a house, restaurant, etc ˈterəs You can dine in the open air on our 6 159
where you can sit terrace.
terrace noun a flat area outside a house, restaurant, etc ˈterəs We have some plants on our terrace. 7 85
where you can sit
terraced house noun one of a row of houses that are joined ˌterəst ˈhaʊs The railway workers lived in terraced 7 85
together houses.
testing adjective difficult ˈtestɪŋ Teaching a class on my own for the first 4 157
time was a very testing experience.

the Earth's phrase the layer of gases around the Earth ðiː ˌɜːθs ˈætməsfɪə The factories on the outskirts of town 5 60
atmosphere burn their waste and release toxic gases
into the Earth's atmosphere.
the outskirts noun the outer area of a city, town, or village ˈaʊtskɜːts There are waterfalls on the outskirts of 6 159
the city.
theft noun the action or crime of stealing something θeft The trial of Rebecca Rivers, who was 8 97
accused of theft, is finally over.
thief noun someone who steals things θiːf The thief managed to escape. 8 97
thoughtful adjective kind and always thinking about how you ˈθɔːtfəl My cousin is very thoughtful and always 5 158
can help other people wants to help people.
thoughtless adjective not considering how your actions and ˈθɔːtləs It was a thoughtless comment and he 5 158
words might upset someone else immediately felt sorry he’d said it.
tiger noun a large wild cat that has yellow fur with ˈtaɪgə The hunter shot the tiger and wounded it. 2 25
black lines on it
tough adjective determined and strict tʌf Teachers could be quite tough. 4 48
traffic congestion phrase a situation in which a road is crowded with ˈtræfɪk kənˌdʒestʃən Charging people to drive into the city 7 82
vehicles cuts down traffic congestion and
pollution.
train verb to practise a sport or exercise, often in treɪn Louise doesn't have to train hard 3 156
order to prepare for a sporting event, or to because she's so talented.
help someone to do this
trainer noun someone who trains people ˈtreɪnə My trainer made me run 10 kilometres. 3 156
training noun preparation for a sport or competition ˈtreɪnɪŋ It was Johnson's ability to focus and his 3 35
dedication to training that made him so
exceptional.
treat verb to give medical care to someone for an triːt His doctor treated his throat infection 9 105
illness or injury with antibiotics and that helped.
trial noun a legal process to decide if someone is traɪəl The trial of Rebecca Rivers, who was 8 161
guilty of a crime accused of theft, is finally over.
tricky adjective difficult to deal with or do ˈtrɪki They had to resolve a tricky situation. 4 48
try sth out verb to use something or do something to traɪ ˈaʊt The idea is that you try out something 1 12
discover if you like it new.
unbelievable adjective not probable and difficult to believe ˌʌnbɪˈliːvəbl̩ Some of the coincidences in the story are 10 118
unbelievable.
uncompetitive adj not wanting to win or to be more ˌʌnkəmˈpetɪtɪv Don't pick me for your team - I'm 5 158
successful than other people completely uncompetitive.
uncritical adjective accepting something too easily, because of ʌnˈkrɪtɪkəl The report was very uncritical and its 5 158
being unwilling or unable to criticise recommendations were limited.
unexpected adjective Something that is unexpected surprises ˌʌnɪkˈspektɪd When my grandmother left me her 10 163
you because you did not know it was going jewellery, it was completeley unexpected.
to happen.
unfortunate adjective unlucky ʌnˈfɔːtʃənət I was unfortunate because the topic I 10 163
revised didn't come up in the exam.
unique adjective different from everyone and everything jʊˈniːk If you want to see something original 6 70
else and unique, you should go to Kizhi Island
in Russia.
unrealistic adjective not thinking about what is likely to happen ˌʌnrɪəˈlɪstɪk Optimism can be unrealistic and lead to 5 57
or what you can really do us taking risks.
unreliable adjective not able to be trusted or depended on ˌʌnrɪˈlaɪəbl̩ Becky’s terribly unreliable. If you 5 158
arrange to meet her somewhere she’ll
probably be late or she won’t even show
up.
unsuccessful adjective not achieving what was wanted or intended ˌʌnsəkˈsesfəl He wrote a rather unsuccessful book. 10 118

unsympathetic adjective showing that you do not understand or ˌʌnsɪmpəˈθetɪk I hurt my leg but my friends were very 5 158
care about someone's problems unsympathetic.
urban phrase the way towns and cities are built and ˌɜːbən dɪˈveləpmənt Urban development is an important 7 82
development organised aspect of people's lives.
venue noun a place where a sports game, musical ˈvenjuː We’re both a hotel and a conference 6 159
performance, or special event happens venue.
verdict noun a decision in a court of law saying if ˈvɜːdɪkt The jury gave a verdict of guilty. 8 161
someone is guilty or not
victor noun the person who wins a fight or competition ˈvɪktə Who will be the victor today? 3 156

victorious adjective having won a fight or competition vɪkˈtɔːriəs They welcomed the victorious champion 3 156
home.
victory noun when you win a fight or competition ˈvɪktəri Thomas achieved a great victory. 3 35
well-organised adj good at planning or organising things ˌwelˈɔːɡənaɪzd My sister Vera is a very well-organised 5 158
person.
witness noun someone in a court of law who says what ˈwɪtnəs Around 50 witnesses were called to give 8 161
they have seen and what they know about evidence.
a crime
wonder verb to want to know something or to try to ˈwʌndə He wondered why they’d come to see him. 9 109
understand the reason for something
work on sth verb to do work in order to achieve something ˈwɜːk ɒn My grammar’s quite good – I just need to 10 121
work on my pronunciation.
work out verb to happen or develop successfully wɜːk ˈaʊt If you’re successful it’s great but if it 1 12
doesn’t work out it doesn’t matter too
much.
world record noun the best achievement in the world in a ˌwɜːld ˈrekɔːd Taylor already holds the world record 3 156
particular activity, especially a sport for the 400m.
wound verb to injure someone, especially with a knife wuːnd The hunter shot the tiger and wounded it. 2 25
or gun