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"Word family:

Nouns: absence Adjectives: absent

ADJECTIVE

not in the place where you are expected to be, especially at school or work

Dictionary example:

John has been absent from school/work for three days now.

Learner example:

I would like to apologise, because I'm missing tomorrow's class. I'm going to be absent because

my grandmother is ill and I have to take care of her.

"Word family: Nouns: access Verbs: access

Adjectives: accessible

NOUN [U]

RIGHT/OPPORTUNITY

the right or opportunity to use or look at something

Dictionary examples:

Internet access

The system has been designed to give the user quick and easy access to the required information.

Learner example:

I would suggest free Internet access as an extra facility in our library.

METHOD

the way in which you can enter a place or get to a place

Dictionary examples:

disabled access

The only access to the village is by boat.

Learner example:

I think it would be better if you stayed in a small village which has easy access to the city centre.

"Word family:

Nouns: ability, disability, inability

Verbs: enable

Adjectives: able, disabled, unable

NOUN [C or U]

the physical or mental skill or qualities that you need to do something

Dictionary examples:

She had the ability to explain things clearly.

athletic/academic ability

Learner example:

The protagonist had been bitten by a strange spider and some days later, he noticed [he had] some strange powers, such as the ability to create spider[s'] webs.

"Word family:

Nouns: achievement Verbs: achieve

VERB [T]

to succeed in doing something good, usually by working hard

Dictionary examples:

She finally achieved her ambition to visit South America.

The government's training policy, he claimed, was achieving its objectives.

Learner example:

My father is a person who has achieved a lot of great things in his life.

"NOUN

MONEY

[U] the money that you pay to enter a place or an event

Dictionary examples:

Art exhibition - free admission.

They are charging more for admission to the festival this year.

Learner example:

We believe that [this] is a great opportunity because [it] is one of the best shows of the year, and

the best part is that the admission is free for students.

"Word family:

Nouns: account, accountant

NOUN

BANK

[C] an arrangement with a bank to keep your money there and to allow you to take it out when you need to

Dictionary examples:

I've opened an account with another bank.

I paid the money into my account this morning.

Learner example:

The man, whose name I can't remember, wrote a serious looking message in which he [talked about] a money transfer to a Swiss bank account.

"NOUN [C] (ALSO ad)

an advertisement

Dictionary example:

an advert for the local radio station

Learner example:

I read an advert in the newspaper about that new club called ""Click"".

"ADVERB

IN FRONT

in front

Dictionary example:

Turn left at the traffic lights, and you'll see the hospital straight ahead.

Learner example:

Behind our school there was a beautiful forest and if you walked 200 meters straight ahead you

would reach a clearing .

FUTURE

in the future

Dictionary example:

She has a difficult time ahead of her.

Learner example:

Even if you're satisfied with your life now, take a look 10 or 20 years ahead.

"ADJECTIVE [NEVER BEFORE NOUN]; ADVERB (ALSO alright)

GOOD ENOUGH

good enough, although not very good

Dictionary example:

""What did you think of the film?"" ""It was all right. Nothing special.""

Learner example:

We arrived by ship and the trip was all right except my friend Tim was ill.

PREPOSITION NEXT TO

in a line next to or beside something long

Dictionary examples:

a row of houses along the river

Cars were parked all along the road.

Learner example:

To my surprise, there was a charming beach along the cycle route.

ADVERB

FORWARD

moving forward

Dictionary example:

We were just walking along, chatting.

WITH YOU

with you

Dictionary examples:

Why don't you take him along with you when you go? I'll bring some food along and we can have a picnic.

Learner example:

My boyfriend came along with me.

"CONJUNCTION

EMPHASIZE

used between two words which are the same to make their meaning stronger

Dictionary examples:

She spends hours and hours on the telephone. The sound grew louder and louder.

We laughed and laughed.

Learner example:

The situation became harder and harder.

"ADVERB

TOTAL

in total

Dictionary examples:

There were twenty people there altogether. That'll be £52.50 altogether, please.

Learner example:

They cost 1700 baht altogether.

"DETERMINER; PRONOUN

one another

each other

Dictionary example:

How can they reach an agreement if they won't talk to one another?

Learner example:

We know one another from Poland.

NOUN

SOLUTION

[C] a way of solving a problem

Dictionary examples:

It's a difficult situation and I don't know what the answer is. So what's the answer to the problem?

There's no easy answer to the problem.

Learner example:

Should wild animals be kept in cages, and denied their freedom so that we can have the pleasure of watching them [in] zoos? Well, there's no simple answer to that question.

VERB

TEST

[T] to write or say something as a reply to a question in a test, exercise, competition, etc.

Dictionary example:

I couldn't answer the last three questions.

Learner example:

That was to be my first interview, and I had never before answered a test of personality so I felt

insecure.

"Word family:

Adjectives: approximate

Adverbs: approximately

ADVERB

close to a particular number or time although not exactly that number or time

Dictionary examples:

The job will take approximately two weeks, and cost around £1000.

The college has approximately 700 students.

Learner example:

From the airport of Larnaka you need approximately forty-five minutes by taxi, to Agia Napa.

"PRONOUN

ANY PERSON

any person or any people

Dictionary examples:

Anybody can join the club and the membership is free. The competition is open to anybody under the age of 16.

Learner example:

Anybody [could] understand it!

"VERB [T]

to try to do something, especially something difficult

Dictionary examples:

He attempted to escape through a window.

There's no point in even attempting an explanation - he'll never listen.

Learner example:

Carrying a candle, I attempted to phone my neighbour but I looked out of the window and there were no lights.

"VERB [T]

If the police arrest someone, they take them away to ask them about a crime which

they might have committed.

Dictionary examples:

She was arrested for drinking and driving.

He was arrested when customs officers found drugs in his bag.

Learner example:

To my horror, they arrested me.

"ADJECTIVE

with little or no hair on the head

Dictionary examples:

At twenty he was already going bald.

He has a bald patch.

Learner example:

Police Officers jumped out from the bushes and subdued the bald man, Lew Juan Yee.

"VERB

REQUEST

[I or T] to say something to someone because you want them to do something

Dictionary example:

They've asked me to look after their dog while they're away.

Learner example:

I want to apologize for not going to your class tomorrow, it's not that I don't want to go but my mother asked me to take care of my sister because she is s[ic]k and my parents have to work.

WANT SOMETHING

[I or T] to say something to someone because you want them to give you something

Dictionary examples:

He's asked for a bike for his birthday.

He's asked us for a new bike.

Learner example:

I can ask my parents for a stereo for Christmas, but I'm not sure if they will agree or not.

WANT PERMISSION

[I or T] to say something to someone because you want to know if you can do something

Dictionary example:

Bruce asked if he could stay with us for a few days.

Learner example:

I am going to travel with my girlfriend Anna, so I am writing you this email to ask if you can lend

me your bicycle for a week.

"PREPOSITION

in addition to something or someone

Dictionary example:

Do you play any other sports besides football and basketball?

Learner example:

It's a Chinese food buffet but besides Chinese food they also have Italian food like pizza.

ADVERB

EXTRA REASON

used to give another reason for something

Dictionary example:

She won't mind your being late - besides, it's hardly your fault.

Learner example:

I think that I'm going to buy ""Troy"" because it looks to me [to be] a great movie - besides, it reminds me of your vacations in Mexico.

IN ADDITION TO

in addition to

Dictionary example:

Besides looking after the children, she runs a successful business.

Learner example:

But besides playing, you can also sit [i]n the ""club lounge"", where you can drink something with

your friends or just play cards.

"ADJECTIVE [NEVER BEFORE NOUN]

not sleeping

Dictionary examples:

I find it so difficult to stay awake during history lessons. I drink a lot of coffee to keep me awake.

I lay awake half the night worrying.

Learner example:

She felt so nervous that it kept her awake at night.

"Word family: Nouns: backing

Verbs: back

ADVERB

BEHIND

in a direction behind you

Dictionary examples:

He sat back on the sofa.

Anna stepped back.

Learner example:

I cried [out], stepping back and falling down.

"Word family: Nouns: booking

Verbs: book

NOUN [C]

FOR WRITING

a set of pages fastened together in a cover and used for writing on

Dictionary example:

an address book

Learner example:

I lost my address book last week.

VERB [I or T]

book sb in or book sb into sth PHRASAL VERB

to arrange for someone to stay at a hotel

Dictionary example:

She booked me into a hotel in the town centre.

Learner example:

You have been booked into the ""Palace Hotel"" which is one of the most comfortable [hotels] in

town.

"NOUN [C]

ANIMAL

a small animal like a mouse with wings that flies at night

Dictionary example:

Bats were swooping through the night air.

Learner example:

A bat flew close to my left ear and far away I heard some strange sounds.

"NOUN [C]

a container with an open top and a handle, often used for carrying liquids

Dictionary examples:

Armed with a bucket and a mop, I started washing the floor.

I took my two-year old nephew down to the beach with his bucket and spade.

Learner example:

I screamed and ran out the door, when a bucket of ice cold water fell on my head!

"Word family: Nouns: beauty

Adjectives: beautiful

Adverbs: beautifully

NOUN [U]

BEING BEAUTIFUL

the quality of being beautiful

Dictionary example:

This is an area of outstanding natural beauty.

Learner example:

It's a very nice place and I wanted to record its beauty.

"NOUN [C]

SPORTS

the leader of a sports team

Dictionary example:

It's unusual to have a goalkeeper as (the) captain of a football team.

Learner example:

Now I am the captain of the football team.

"ADJECTIVE

TASTE

with an unpleasantly sharp taste

Dictionary example:

a bitter flavour/taste

Learner example:

And due to these bizarre situations I went through as a little boy, everything related to shopping

seems like a bitter liquid which I'm forced to drink.

"PREPOSITION

FOLLOWING

following someone or something

Dictionary example:

We ran after him but he escaped.

Learner example:

I ran after the bus and shouted to her 'hurry up!'

after all

used to add information that shows that what you have just said is true

Dictionary example:

You can't expect to be perfect - after all, it was only your first lesson.

Learner example:

I stopped talking with my friends, but not [for long] - after all, we are friends. Anyway, I'm

planning nice things for the next April 1st.

day after day/year after year, etc.

happening every day/year, etc. over a long period

Dictionary example:

We went to the same part of France for our holidays year after year.

And there she was, day after day, walking in the rain...

CONJUNCTION

at a later time than something else happens

Dictionary examples:

Soon/shortly after we joined the motorway, the car started to make a strange noise. I went to the post office straight/immediately after I left you.

Learner example:

I hope we will meet soon after I come back home.

"NOUN [C]

one of the parts that a book is divided into

Dictionary example:

Read Chapter 3 before class tomorrow.

Learner example:

I promise you that I will read chapter 10 of the book, and I will make a resume for you.

"NOUN [C]

BUILDING

a large building containing many apartments or offices

Dictionary example:

a block of flats

Learner example:

I drove to a block of flats.

DISTANCE

the distance along a street from where one road crosses it to the place where the next road crosses it, or one part of a street like this, especially in a town or city

Dictionary examples:

The museum is just six blocks away.

My friend and I live on the same block.

Learner example:

I'd have liked to go to the one which is four blocks away but the other guys didn't want to.

"Word family: Nouns: ambition

Adjectives: ambitious

NOUN

HOPE

[C] something you want to achieve

Dictionary examples:

His ambition is to run his own business.

He has already achieved his main ambition in life - to become wealthy.

Learner example:

Learning English is one of my ambition[s].

"Word family: Nouns: bravery Adjectives: brave

Adverbs: bravely

ADJECTIVE

showing no fear of dangerous or difficult situations

Dictionary examples:

a brave soldier

It was a brave decision to leave her job and start her own business. She was very brave to learn to ski at fifty.

Of the three organizations criticized, only one was brave to face the press.

Richards has made a brave attempt to answer his critics.

Learner example:

They all laughed at me, but I was brave enough to mount the horse again.

"Word family:

Nouns: breath Verbs: breathe

VERB [I or T]

to take air into and out of your lungs

Dictionary examples:

It's so airless in here - I can hardly breathe. Breathe in and now breathe out.

Keep breathing deeply.

Learner example:

The air you will breathe is cleaner than the air in the city.

"Word family:

Nouns: appearance, disappearance Verbs: appear, disappear

NOUN

WAY YOU LOOK

[NO PLURAL] the way a person or thing looks to other people

Dictionary examples:

The buildings are very similar in appearance.

You can alter/change the whole appearance of a room just by lighting it in a certain way.

She gives the appearance of being very efficient.

Learner example:

I usually buy fashionable clothes, because I think [your] appearance is really important.

"VERB

NAME

[T] to give someone or something a particular name

Dictionary examples:

They've called the twins Katherine and Thomas.

His real name is Jonathan, but they've always called him 'Johnny'.

Learner example:

Two months later, the baby girl was born and [she] called her 'Mary'.

SHOUT

[I or T] to say something in a loud voice, especially in order to attract someone's attention

Dictionary examples:

Did you call?

I thought I heard someone call my name.

Someone in the crowd called (out) his name. ""Hey, come over here!"" she called.

Learner example:

I ignored the voice, but again someone called me.

NOUN [C]

SHOUT

when someone shouts something

Dictionary examples:

She could hear calls for help from inside the burning building.

I'll be in the next room, so give me a call if you need any help.

Learner example:

I continued on towards Kingsley Road where the call for help had been made.

sb's call INFORMAL

when someone can decide something

Dictionary example:

I don't mind what we do - it's your call.

Learner example:

This is my opinon, but it is your call, talk to your parents.

"NOUN [C]

a high area of rock with a very steep side, often on a coast

Dictionary examples:

Keep well away from the edge of the cliff. the cliff edge

Learner example:

This hotel is [on] a cliff, and has good [views].

NOUN

WEATHER

[C or U] the weather conditions that an area usually has

Dictionary examples:

a hot/dry/cold/wet climate

The Mediterranean climate is good for growing citrus fruits and grapes.

Learner example:

The climate of Brazil is typically tropical so the weather is gorgeous.

"NOUN [C]

a taxi

Dictionary example:

We took a cab to the theatre.

Learner example:

I packed my things and I took a cab home.

"NOUN [U]

a system of heating a building by warming air or water in one place and carrying it

to different rooms in pipes

Dictionary example:

The house had no central heating so in winter it was freezing.

Learner example:

I like this restaurant because it's cheap, big and tidy, [and] at the same time it has central heating and air condition[ing].

NOUN [C]

a formal event that is performed on important social or religious occasions

Dictionary example:

a wedding/graduation ceremony

Learner example:

In July I'm going to [get] married to my girl friend, and the wedding ceremony is on 7th of July.

"Word family:

Nouns: athlete, athletics Adjectives: athletic

NOUN [C]

a person who is very good at sports or physical exercise, especially one who

competes in organized events

Dictionary example:

He became a professional athlete at the age of 16.

Learner example:

It's amazing what the athletes can do, don't you think?

"NOUN [U]

a sweet that you chew but do not swallow

Dictionary example:

Would you like a piece/stick of chewing gum?

Learner example:

Some visitors [to the zoo] feed them with forbidden things like sugar or they give them chewing

gum.

"NOUN [PLURAL]

male and female cows kept on a farm for their milk or meat

Dictionary example:

beef/dairy cattle

Learner example:

He was born in Australia, where his father has a big cattle station.

"ADVERB

towards the direction behind you

Dictionary examples:

I walked backwards towards the door.

He took a step backwards to allow her to pass.

Learner example:

Very often, for example on Friday afternoon or Saturday, there are so many people in a shopping centre that you can't move forwards or backwards.

NOUN [U]

! meat from a pig cut into long thin slices

Dictionary examples:

a bacon sandwich a slice of bacon bacon and eggs

Learner example:

I like bacon very much but I ever eat it.

"Word family: Nouns: completion Verbs: complete

Adjectives: complete Adverbs: completely

ADJECTIVE

TOTAL

[ALWAYS BEFORE NOUN] very great or to the largest degree possible

Dictionary examples:

It was a complete waste of time. He's a complete idiot!

I made a complete and utter mess of it!

Learner example:

It was a complete disaster!

WHOLE

with all the parts

Dictionary examples:

the complete works of Oscar Wilde

The report comes complete with diagrams and colour photographs. Sun, sand and romance - her holiday was complete.

Learner example:

I can send you [a] complete map.

"ADJECTIVE

funny

Dictionary example:

a comic actor/performance

Learner example:

I think it's a bit long for a comic film (3 hours!!) but it's very [funny]: you must see it.

"Word family: Nouns: behaviour

Verbs: behave, misbehave

VERB

IN A PARTICULAR WAY

[I] to do or say things in a particular way

Dictionary examples:

She always behaves badly at bedtime.

He's been behaving very strangely recently.

You behaved like an idiot!

Learner example:

As always, I'll behave like a gentleman.

BE POLITE

[I or T] to be polite and not make a situation difficult

Dictionary example:

Did the children behave (themselves)?

Learner example:

Team sports can also help children to behave themselves.

Word family:

Nouns: behaviour

Verbs: behave, misbehave

NOUN [U]

the way that you behave

Dictionary examples:

bad/good behaviour

Her behaviour was appalling.

Did you notice anything strange about his behaviour?

Learner example:

I was on the beach when my mobile phone rang. It was my boyfriend apologizing for his bad behaviour at the party we had had the night before.

"VERB

consist of sth PHRASAL VERB

to be made of or formed from something

Dictionary examples:

The team consists of four Europeans and two Americans.

It's a simple dish to prepare, consisting mainly of rice and vegetables.

Learner example:

Our team consists of 15 girls, who are all between 16 and 18.

"Word family:

Verbs: convince

Adjectives: convinced, convincing

VERB [T]

to persuade someone or make them certain

Dictionary examples:

She tried to convince me that I needed a new car. I hope this will convince you to change your mind.

He managed to convince the jury of his innocence.

Learner example:

She was the one who convinced me to go, and I am glad she did.

"NOUN [C]

NOT ARMS/LEGS

the main part of a person's or animal's body, without the head, arms and legs

Dictionary example:

The dog had a thin body and short legs.

Learner example:

There was a black spider with long legs and a fat round body near my head.

"NOUN [C or U]

a long green vegetable that is white inside

Dictionary example:

We had fried courgettes and onions.

Learner example:

I really like hot and spicy chicken with courgette.

"NOUN

MONEY

[C or U] money in your bank account or on your mobile phone

Dictionary example:

I was relieved to see from my statement that my account was in credit.

Learner example:

I will talk to you on the phone [in a] week['s] time as I [don't have] enough credit.

PAYMENT

[U] a method of paying for goods or services at a later time, usually paying interest as well as the original money

Dictionary examples:

They decided to buy the car on credit.

The shop was offering six months' interest-free credit on electrical goods.

Learner example:

My father spent lots of money without [having the] cash. Unfortunately a credit loan company helped him.

"Word family: Adjectives: bright

Adverbs: brightly

ADJECTIVE

LIGHT

full of light, shining

Dictionary examples:

bright sunshine

The rooms were bright and airy.

The lights are too bright in here - they're hurting my eyes.

Learner example:

It was bright and sunny.

"NOUN [C]

the group of subjects studied in a school, college, etc.

Dictionary example:

the school curriculum

Learner example:

Introducing [in] schools the system of learning only the things one enjoys would make the

curriculum impossible to create.

"Word family: Nouns: damage Verbs: damage

Adjectives: damaged

ADJECTIVE

harmed or spoilt

Dictionary examples:

They're selling off damaged goods at reduced prices.

Both the cars involved in the accident looked badly damaged.

Learner example:

Unfortunately, my father died [from] a fractured skull and a damaged brain.

"VERB [T]

WIN

to win a victory over someone in a fight, war or competition

Dictionary examples:

Napoleon was defeated by the Duke of Wellington at the battle of Waterloo. If we can defeat the Italian team, we'll be through to the final.

Learner example:

I still remember when Marcelo became [number] 1 in 1998 after he defeated Andre Agassi in the final of the ""fifth Grand Slam"".

NOUN

LOSING

[C] when someone loses against someone else in a fight, war or competition

Dictionary examples:

After their defeat in battle, the soldiers surrendered. Norwich City have suffered their worst defeat of the season.

Learner example:

The whole team will face serious problems, which may lead to big defeats.

"Word family: Nouns: cancellation

Verbs: cancel

VERB [T]

to decide that an organized event will not now happen, or to stop an order for

goods or services that you no longer want

Dictionary examples:

They've had to cancel tomorrow's football match because of the bad weather. The 7:10 train to London's Kings Cross has been cancelled.

I've cancelled the order.

Learner example:

I had nothing to do because my previous plans had been cancelled.

"Word family: Nouns: delivery

Verbs: deliver

VERB

TAKE

[I or T] to take things such as goods, letters and parcels to people's houses or places of work

Dictionary examples:

Mail is delivered to our office twice a day.

The shop is delivering our new bed on Thursday.

Learner example:

You have to deliver newspapers to the town centre's shops.

"Word family: Nouns: destruction

Verbs: destroy

VERB [T]

to damage something so badly that it does not exist or cannot be used

Dictionary examples:

Most of the old part of the city was destroyed by bombs during the war.

The accident seemed to have completely/totally destroyed his confidence.

Learner example:

The film described a terrible period of our history when a lot of people died and a lot of cities were destroyed.

"Word family:

Nouns: difficulty Adjectives: difficult

ADJECTIVE

NOT FRIENDLY

not friendly or easy to deal with

Dictionary examples:

The manager is difficult to deal with/a difficult person to deal with. His wife is a very difficult person.

Please children, don't be so difficult!

Learner example:

I'm not a difficult person and I can cook very [well].

"Word family: Nouns: challenge Verbs: challenge

Adjectives: challenging

ADJECTIVE

difficult, in a way that tests your ability or determination

Dictionary example:

This has been a challenging time for us all.

Learner example:

Like cavaliers we ride across the country looking for adventures and challenging activities.

"NOUN [C]

RECORDING

a CD

Dictionary example:

Both songs are on their latest disc.

Learner example:

Then after the movie, we went to a CD shop and I bought the new Foo Fighters' disc.

NOUN [C]

someone who plays music on the radio or at live events

Dictionary example:

a radio 2 disc jockey

Learner example:

I found out that there would be a special event with disc jockeys like DJ Quicksilver.

"Word family:

Nouns: circle, circulation

Verbs: circle

Adjectives: circular

VERB

DRAW

[T] to draw a circle around something

Dictionary example:

Circle the answer you think is correct.

"Word family:

Nouns: division, divide

Verbs: divide

Adjectives: divided

VERB

SEPARATE

[I or T] to separate into parts or groups or to make people or things do this

Dictionary examples:

At the end of the lecture, I'd like all the students to divide into small discussion groups.

After World War Two, Germany was divided into two separate countries.

Learner example:

The class was divided in[to] two groups.

"ADJECTIVE

EXPECTED

expected to happen, arrive, etc. at a particular time

What time is the next bus due?

The next meeting is due to be held in three months' time. Their first baby is due in January.

Learner example:

It is my science assignment which is due on Tuesday, so I have no time to research and write it again.

due to because of

Dictionary examples:

A lot of her unhappiness is due to boredom.

Due to wet leaves on the line, this train will arrive an hour late.

Learner example:

First of all, I want to say that France is the best place to cycle, due to its mountains and fantastic

forests.

"NOUN

PLANET

[NO PLURAL] (ALSO Earth) the planet that we live on

Dictionary examples:

The Earth takes approximately 365 days to go round the Sun.

Swimming in a pool is the best place on Earth to be on a hot day like this.

Learner example:

I like it because it is the best football on Earth!

Word family:

Nouns: east

Adjectives: east, eastern

ADJECTIVE [ALWAYS BEFORE NOUN]

EAST PART

in or from the east part of an area

Dictionary example:

The eastern part of the country is very mountainous.

Learner example:

After that you can catch a train which takes you to the eastern part of Switzerland.

"Word family:

Nouns: embarrassment Verbs: embarrass

Adjectives: embarrassed, embarrassing

ADJECTIVE

feeling ashamed or shy

Dictionary examples:

She felt embarrassed about undressing in front of the doctor. I was too embarrassed to admit that I was scared.

Learner example:

I went to the first lesson last week and I have to admit I felt a bit embarrassed about doing some

writing at the begin[nin]g of the lesson.

"Word family:

Nouns: communication

Verbs: communicate Adjectives: communicative

VERB

SHARE INFORMATION

[I or T] to share information with others by speaking, writing, moving your body or using other signals

Dictionary examples:

We can now communicate instantly with people on the other side of the world. Has the news been communicated to the staff yet?

Unable to speak a word of the language, he communicated with his hands.

Learner example:

Finally, I decided to join a new English class in order to improve my English because [a] few weeks ago I met someone who is really interesting, so I would like to be able to communicate properly

with him.

Word family:

Nouns: communication Verbs: communicate Adjectives: communicative

NOUN [U]

the act of communicating with people

Dictionary examples:

Television is an increasingly important means of communication. We are in direct communication with Moscow.

With an hour's walk to the nearest telephone, communication is difficult. There's very little communication between mother and daughter.

a course on communication skills

Learner example:

Communication [by] e-mail is very fast and very cheap.

"VERB

GET AWAY

[I] to succeed in getting away from a place where you do not want to be

Dictionary examples:

The two prisoners escaped from prison last night.

There were reports that a lion had escaped from its cage at a nearby zoo.

Learner example:

You also get to meet people there, interesting people - for example, I met a really weird guy who

claims to have escaped from an asylum, twice!

"Word family: Nouns: end, ending Verbs: end

Adjectives: endless

NOUN [C]

FINAL PART

the last part of a story, film, etc.

Dictionary example:

People want love stories with happy endings.

Learner example:

This film is a typical romantic story with a happy ending.

WORD

a part added to the end of a word

Dictionary example:

To make the plural of 'dog', you add the plural ending '-s'.

NOUN

PERSON

! [C] a person who you dislike or oppose

Dictionary examples:

He's made a few enemies in this company. political enemies

Learner example:

I have made a lot of enemies.

"Word family:

Nouns: explosion, explosive

Verbs: explode

Adjectives: explosive

VERB [I or T]

If something such as a bomb explodes, it bursts with noise and force, and if you

explode it, you make it burst with noise and force.

Dictionary examples:

A bomb exploded at one of London's busiest railway stations this morning. He was driving so fast that his car tyre exploded.

Learner example:

A bomb had exploded and that boy rescued me from the accident.

"Word family:

Nouns: contest, contestant

NOUN [C]

a competition to do better than other people, usually in which prizes are given

Dictionary examples:

a dance/sports contest

She's won a lot of beauty contests.

Learner example:

Next week there will be a ""Freestyle Battle"", a rap contest, where [a] rapper can mess with others.

"Word family:

Nouns: favour, favourite Verbs: favour

Adjectives: favourable, favourite, unfavourable

NOUN [C]

LIKED BEST

a thing that someone likes best or enjoys most

Dictionary example:

How clever of you to buy chocolate chip cookies - they're my favourites.

Learner example:

We are going to see a thriller film, they are my favourites.

"NOUN

GIVING

[C or U] when you give something to someone and they give you something else

Dictionary examples:

an exchange of ideas/information

They were given food and shelter in exchange for work.

Learner example:

So, it was a very interesting exchange of ideas.

STUDENTS

[C] an arrangement by which students and teachers from one country go to stay with students and teachers in another country

Dictionary example:

Are you going on the French exchange this year?

Learner example:

His name is Rob and, [like] me, [he] applied to the student exchange program.

VERB [T]

GIVING

to give something to someone and receive something similar from them

Dictionary examples:

It's traditional for the two teams to exchange shirts after the game. We exchanged addresses and telephone numbers.

Learner example:

She moved to another part of town and we forgot to exchange our addresses.

"Word family: Nouns: craziness

Adjectives: crazy

ADJECTIVE

go crazy

to become very excited about something

Dictionary example:

When he came on stage the audience went crazy.

Learner example:

So when our teachers told us yesterday that a TV company would come and film this project and do interviews with us, everybody went crazy.

"Word family: Adjectives: fine

Adverbs: finely

ADJECTIVE

SUNNY

sunny and not raining

Dictionary example:

If it's fine tomorrow, we could have a picnic.

Learner example:

Today the weather is fine and warm.

NOUN [C]

an amount of money that you must pay for breaking a rule or law

Dictionary examples:

She had to pay a fine. a parking fine

The maximum penalty is a $1000 fine. If found guilty, he faces a heavy fine.

Learner example:

She was made to pay a fine and she wasn't sent to prison.

"NOUN

in fact

used to emphasize what is really true, or to give more information

Dictionary examples:

We met Rebecca for lunch. In fact, we spent the whole afternoon with her.

I was told there were some tickets left but in fact they were sold out.

Learner example:

The club has its own small clubhouse, with many things in it. For example, there was a big pinball-game and some computers. In fact it was the best clubhouse I've ever seen.

Word family:

Nouns: fairness Adjectives: fair, unfair Adverbs: fairly, unfairly

ADJECTIVE

EQUAL

treating everyone in the same way, so that no one has an advantage

Dictionary examples:

That's not fair! You always go first!

It's not fair to make me do all the work. a fair trial

I can't spend all my time with one child - it wouldn't be fair on the others.

Learner example:

Even though she thought her m[u]m wasn't being fair, she decided to go and try to have a nice day with her family.

REASONABLE

acceptable, reasonable or right

Dictionary examples:

a fair deal

He offered a fair price for the car. That's a fair comment/question.

Learner example:

You may ask yourself: ""What do you do in a club?"" Well, it's a fair question!!!

NOUN [C]

EVENT

an event outside where you can ride large machines for pleasure and play games to win prizes

Dictionary example:

The children spent all their money on rides at the fair.

Learner example:

For example in the morning we can go to a fair, like Six Flags. I think that it will be exciting.

Word family:

Nouns: fairness Adjectives: fair, unfair Adverbs: fairly, unfairly

ADVERB

QUITE

more than average, but less than very

Dictionary examples: a fairly big family She's fairly tall.

We get on fairly well.

I saw her fairly recently.

Learner example:

The weather was fairly warm.

"NOUN [C]

a document which describes your education, qualifications and the jobs you have

done, which you send to an employer that you want to work for

Dictionary example:

Send me your CV.

Learner example:

Th[ese] students are the same as me, they want [to] pass their exams next year and put the degree on their CV.

"Word family: Nouns: fool Verbs: fool Adjectives: foolish

Adverbs: foolishly

NOUN

PERSON

[C] a stupid person

Dictionary examples:

I was a fool to trust him. I felt a complete fool.

He's a fool if he thinks she's interested.

Learner example:

When I heard my favourite song, I jumped like a crazy fool and everybody looked at me.

"VERB [T]

to go to another place to get something or someone and bring them back

Dictionary examples:

Could you fetch my glasses for me from the other room, please?

I have to fetch my mother from the station.

Learner example:

I'll come and fetch you at 7 o'clock.

"NOUN

QUALIFICATION

[C] a qualification given for completing a university course

Dictionary examples:

""What degree did you do at York?"" ""Geography.""

She's got a physics degree/a degree in physics from Oxford.

Learner example:

I completed my languages degree course at U.P.N University.

"NOUN [C]

a small, green animal with long back legs for jumping that lives in or near water

Dictionary example:

The frogs down at the lake were making a lot of noise.

Learner example:

That was my favourite place, because there were ducks, some frogs, and many butterflies as well as birds.

"VERB [I or T] (-ll-)

to make a telephone call to a particular number

Dictionary examples:

Can I dial this number direct, or do I have to go through the operator?

Dial 0 for the switchboard.

Learner example:

So he picked up the phone and dialled the number written in the letter.

"VERB (getting, got, got)

get cancer/flu, etc.

to become ill or develop an illness

Dictionary example:

I'm getting another cold.

Learner example:

I was angry, and I got a cold!

get cold/ill/late, etc.

to start to be cold/ill/late, etc.

Dictionary examples:

Your coffee's getting cold. It's getting late.

Learner example:

It's getting late so I should finish now.

get worse

to become more ill, unpleasant, difficult, severe, etc. than before

Dictionary examples:

My cold seems to be getting worse.

If the rain gets any worse, we'll have to stop walking.

Learner example:

I thought, it couldn't get worse.

get caught/killed/told off, etc.

to have something done to you. This is sometimes used instead of the usual passive structure.

Dictionary examples:

He got killed in the war.

She got told off in class for not paying attention. I got bitten during the walk.

Learner example:

Two weeks ago many people at school got injured because of an explosion, so a TV company came to film what the school is like now ...

get sth wrong

to produce an answer or result that is not correct, or to say or write something that is not correct

Dictionary examples:

I got most of the answers wrong.

The newspapers got the story completely wrong.

get sth painted/repaired, etc.

[T] to do a task, or to arrange for someone to do a task for you

Dictionary examples:

Could you get the kids dressed? I need to get my hair cut.

You must get that form sent off.

Learner example:

First I have to go to the doctor and then I have to get my teeth checked by the dentist.

get in touch

to contact someone

Please get in touch if you ever come back to Madrid. Learner example:

Get in touch soon.

get down/into/off, etc.

to move to a different place or into a different position

Dictionary example:

I saw her getting into his car.

Learner example:

They [said] that I got into a car by myself (they thought that I had believed the story).

TELEPHONE/DOOR

[T] to deal with or answer a ringing telephone, a knock on the door, etc.

Dictionary examples:

Could you get the phone, Al?

Someone's at the door - could you get it?

get to know sb/sth

to spend time with someone or something so that you gradually learn more about them

Dictionary examples:

The first couple of meetings are for the doctor and patient to get to know each other. I'll need a few weeks to get to know the system.

Learner example:

I hope you can come here and get to know him.

get rid of sth

to throw something away or give something to someone because you no longer want it

Dictionary example:

We must get rid of some of those old books.

Learner example:

Do you think I'd better get rid of the sofa and place the bookshelf [there]?

"Word family: Nouns: fitness

Adjectives: fit

VERB (-tt-)

CORRECT SIZE

[I or T] to be the right size or shape for someone or something

Dictionary examples:

That jacket fits you perfectly.

These jeans don't fit me any more. I can't find a lid to fit this jar.

Learner example:

Sometimes I like the style and colour but when I wear them I see that they don't fit me.

fit (sth) in/into/through/under, etc.

If people or things fit somewhere, or if you can fit them somewhere, that place is

big enough for them.

Dictionary examples:

How many people can you fit in your car?

This radio is small enough to fit into my pocket.

Learner example:

The desk has to be very small and has to fit into the corner, because there is not much space left in my bedroom.

Word family:

Nouns: fitness Adjectives: fit

NOUN [U]

the condition of being physically strong and healthy

Dictionary example:

I'm trying to improve my fitness by cycling to work.

Learner example:

I specially like fitness lessons.

"NOUN [C]

a man who is getting married

Dictionary example:

The bride and groom were posing for pictures.

Learner example:

[In] my village, the bridge and the groom stay [on] their first night at the groom's parents' house.

"Word family: Verbs: dislike, like

VERB [T]

to not like someone or something

Dictionary examples:

Why do you dislike her so much?

I dislike walking and I hate the countryside.

Learner example:

I generally prefer reading newspapers, but I don't dislike books.

NOUN

likes and dislikes

things that you do and do not like

Dictionary example:

What are your top five likes and dislikes?

Learner example:

The teacher asked about our families, friends, [and] likes and dislikes and [then] the lesson finished.

"Word family:

Nouns: form, formation, transformation

Verbs: form, transform

NOUN [C]

GRAMMAR

a way of writing or saying a word that shows if it is singular or plural, past or present, etc.

Dictionary examples:

The continuous form of 'stand' is 'standing'. 'Hers' is the possessive form of 'her'.

'Isn't' is the short form of 'is not'.

SCHOOL GROUP

a school class or group of classes for students of the same age or ability

He's in the third form. Learner example:

I was about 11 years old and I was in the sixth and last form of elementary.

VERB

COMBINE

[T] to make something by combining different parts

Dictionary example:

In English, you form the present participle by adding -ing to the verb.

"ADVERB

ALMOST NOT

almost not, or only a very small amount

Dictionary examples:

We hardly ever go to concerts.

I could hardly hear her at the back.

The party had hardly started when she left.

He ate hardly anything.

Learner example:

Well, my bedroom hardly ever looks tidy.

"NOUN

RIGHT THING TO DO

[C or U] something that you have to do because it is part of your job, or something that you feel is the right thing to do

I felt it was my duty to tell them the truth. He only went to see her out of duty.

Learner example:

It is not enjoyable if you look at it as a duty.

"Word family: Adjectives: full

Adverbs: fully

ADVERB

completely

Dictionary examples:

The restaurant was fully booked.

Have you fully recovered from your illness? a fully qualified teacher

"VERB [I]

to get free rides in someone's vehicle, by standing next to the road and waiting for

someone to pick you up

Dictionary example:

We hitchhiked from Paris to Milan.

Learner example:

We hitchhike[d] to the nearest city.

"Word family:

Nouns: employee, employer, employment, unemployment, unemployed

Verbs: employ

Adjectives: unemployed

NOUN [C]

someone who is paid to work for someone else

Dictionary examples:

The number of employees in the company has trebled over the past decade. She's a former council employee/employee of the council.

Learner example:

There is a[n] exotic atmosphere, helped [by] the pictures on the walls and the clothes of the

employees.

"VERB (hurt, hurt)

EMOTION

[I or T] to cause emotional pain to someone

Dictionary examples:

She criticized my writing quite severely and that hurt. He was badly hurt by the end of his marriage.

I didn't mean to hurt your feelings.

Learner example:

My heart was hurt and nobody will [be able to] repair the damage.

ADJECTIVE

IN PAIN

[NEVER BEFORE NOUN] injured or in pain

Dictionary examples:

Let me help you up. Are you hurt?

Put that knife away before someone gets hurt.

Several people were seriously/badly hurt in the explosion.

Learner example:

There was an accident on the motorway but fortunately nobody was seriously hurt.

UNHAPPY

upset or unhappy

Dictionary examples:

I feel very hurt by what you said.

""That was very unkind,"" he said in a hurt voice.

Learner example:

I know you got very hurt when [you and] Brian broke up.

"ADVERB

hardly ever

almost never

Dictionary example:

We hardly ever go out these days.

Learner example:

My bedroom hardly ever looks tidy.

ever since

continuously since that time

Dictionary examples:

We met at school and have been friends ever since. He's been depressed ever since he got divorced.

Learner example:

The pen was given [to me] by my father on my birthday and I have treasured it ever since.

for ever

always in the future

Dictionary example:

I'm not going to live here for ever.

Learner example:

My friend was leaving the city for ever and [going] to a city in another country.

"Word family: Nouns: information

Verbs: inform, misinform

Adjectives: informative

VERB [T]

TELL

to tell someone about something

Dictionary examples:

If he calls me again, I shall inform the police.

I informed my boss that I was going to be away next week.

Learner example:

This letter is to inform you that I will not be able to attend tomorrow's class due to medical issues.

GIVE INFORMATION

[OFTEN PASSIVE] to give someone information about something

Dictionary example:

Patients should be informed about the risks.

Learner example:

Anyway, once a month I read gossip magazines and every day I read newspapers to be informed.

"Word family: Nouns: extremist Adjectives: extreme

Adverbs: extremely

ADVERB

very, or much more than usual

Dictionary examples:

They played extremely well.

She's extremely beautiful/intelligent.

Learner example:

The film was extremely funny.

"NOUN [C]

PART OF SET

a single thing in a set or on a list

Dictionary examples:

the last item on the list

The restaurant has a long menu of about 50 items. Several items of clothing lay on the floor.

Learner example:

I have tasted all the items in that restaurant.

"Word family:

Nouns: feeling Verbs: feel

VERB (felt, felt)

feel like/as if

to have a feeling or idea about something that you have experienced even though

it is not true

Dictionary examples:

I feel as if I've known you for ages.

It feels like I've been here forever and yet it's only been three months.

Learner example:

I feel like I've been here for ages.

feel like sth/doing sth

to have a wish for something, or to want to do something, at a particular moment

Dictionary examples:

I feel like going for a swim.

I feel like a nice cool glass of lemonade.

""Are you coming to aerobics?"" ""No, I don't feel like it today.""

He was so rude I felt like hitting him.

Learner example:

The weather is warm and I feel like swimming.

feel like sb/sth

to seem to be similar to a type of person, thing, or situation

Dictionary examples:

My feet feel like blocks of ice.

I felt like a fool when I saw what everyone else was wearing.

Learner example:

In front of these big towers, I feel like a tiny insect!

THINK/HAVE OPINION

[I or T] to think something or have an opinion

Dictionary examples:

I feel (that) I should be doing more to help her. Do you feel very strongly about this?

I feel certain I'm right.

The more he got close to this man, the more he felt sure it was Chris, who died in a car crash in April 1972.

feel sorry for

to feel sympathy for someone because they are in a difficult situation

Dictionary example:

I feel so sorry for the children - it must be really hard for them.

Learner example:

Anyway, I feel sorry for her and I wonder: what would I do if I were her?

feel at home

to feel happy and confident in a place or situation

Dictionary example:

After a month she felt at home in her new job.

Learner example:

I explained: ""I was in Manchester for just 10 month[s] and [during] that time the people from there made me feel at home [so] I feel proud to have the accent.""

"Word family: Nouns: kindness

Adjectives: kind, unkind

Adverbs: kindly

NOUN [C]

that kind of thing

used to show that what you have just said is only an example from a larger group

of things

Dictionary example:

I like pasta, pizza - that kind of thing.

Learner example:

I enjoy that kind of thing, going to buy presents.

some kind of

used to talk about something when you are not sure of its exact type

Dictionary example:

She has some kind of disability.

Learner example:

You should try joining some kind of club.

"NOUN [C]

a small object that explodes to produce a loud noise and bright colours, often

used to celebrate special events

Dictionary examples:

a firework display

When it gets dark we'll let off/set off the fireworks.

What time do the fireworks start?

Learner example:

We have spent three days [at] Disneyland, watching fireworks every night.

"VERB [T] (laid, laid)

lay the table

to put plates, knives, forks, etc. on the table to prepare for a meal

Dictionary example:

Could you lay the table for me, please?

Learner example:

Before she came to my home, I prepared everything perfectly, laying the table with silver spoons, flowers and candles.

"NOUN [C]

the flat part of the face, above the eyes and below the hair

Dictionary example:

She's got a high forehead.

Learner example:

Suddenly, the girl found herself in front of the man, holding a gun against her forehead.

"NOUN [C]

one of the two soft edges of the mouth

Dictionary examples:

She kissed me on the lips. He licked his lips.

Learner example:

We went to a restaurant and when I had to leave, he kissed me on my lips.

"NOUN [C]

a flat, metal pan with a long handle that is used for frying food

Dictionary example:

Chop the mushrooms and put them in the frying pan.

"Word family: Nouns: luck

Adjectives: lucky, unlucky

Adverbs: luckily

ADJECTIVE

GIVING LUCK

If an object is lucky, some people believe that it gives you luck.

Dictionary example:

I chose six - it's my lucky number.

Learner example:

I lost my lucky pencil.

"NOUN [C]

FRIEND

a female friend of a girl or woman

Dictionary example:

She's going out with her girlfriends tonight.

Learner example:

I buy clothes once a month, and I usually go shopping with my mother or my girlfriends.

"Word family:

Nouns: memory, memorial

Adjectives: memorable

NOUN

ABILITY TO REMEMBER

[C or U] your ability to remember

Dictionary examples:

You have a good memory.

She has an excellent memory for names. He had a photographic memory. memory loss

Learner example:

It's about a girl that lives in London and she lost her memory so everybody has to tell her everything about the past.

EVENT REMEMBERED

[C OFTEN PLURAL] something that you remember from the past

Dictionary examples:

I have very fond memories of that period of my life. I have vivid memories of that evening.

That tune really brings back memories.

Learner example:

I have so many good memories.

"Word family:

Nouns: guidance, guide

Verbs: guide

NOUN [C]

BOOK

a book that gives information about something or tells you how to do something

Dictionary examples:

a hotel/restaurant guide a user's guide

Learner example:

I found that some of the current information in the guide [is] a little bit old.

VERB [T]

to help someone visit a place or go somewhere

Dictionary examples:

Someone offered to guide us through the jungle. He gently guided her back to her seat.

Learner example:

I had to look after the members of the public and [I] guided them to their s[ea]ts.

"VERB

BE TOLD

[I or T] to be told some information

Dictionary examples:

Have you heard the news?

If you haven't heard by Friday, assume I'm not coming. Have you heard what's happened?

I hear (that) you're leaving.

Learner example:

After, she told me that my mother-in-law [had] arrived [in] the city and, obviously, when I heard that, I started to cry.

"Word family: Nouns: month Adjectives: monthly

Adverbs: monthly

ADJECTIVE; ADVERB

happening or produced once a month

Dictionary examples:

monthly payments

a monthly magazine We're paid monthly.

Learner example:

At the moment I pay £550 monthly plus bills.

"Word family:

Nouns: dishonesty, honesty Adjectives: dishonest, honest

Adverbs: honestly, dishonestly

ADVERB

EMPHASIZE

used to emphasize that you are telling the truth

Dictionary example:

Thanks, but I honestly couldn't eat another piece of cake.

Learner example:

Honestly, I did not know what to do, I wanted to cry.

"Word family:

Nouns: neighbour, neighbourhood Adjectives: neighbouring

NOUN [C]

an area of a town or city that people live in

Dictionary examples:

There were lots of kids in my neighbourhood when I was growing up. They live in a very well-off neighbourhood.

Learner example:

The place I'm staying in is wonderful, [and] the whole neighbourhood is wonderful.

"NOUN

have no idea

to not know

Dictionary example:

""Where's Serge?"" ""I've no idea.""

Learner example:

I have no idea about how his children are.

OPINION

[C] an opinion or belief

Dictionary examples:

We have very different ideas about the environment.

Leach puts forward the idea that it is impossible to spoil a child.

I'm not married - where did you get that idea?

Learner example:

You can talk beside the fireplace, or have a beer with your friends and share your ideas about Tolkien's works.

"Word family: Adjectives: obvious

Adverbs: obviously

ADJECTIVE

easy to understand or see

Dictionary examples:

""How do you know she's not happy?"" ""It's obvious."" It's obvious (that) she doesn't like him.

There is no obvious solution.

They have a small child so for obvious reasons they need money. I know you don't like her, but do you have to make it so obvious?

Am I just stating the obvious?

Learner example:

The answers [to] your questions are obvious.

"Word family:

Nouns: inquiry Verbs: inquire

NOUN

QUESTION

[C] a question that you ask when you want more information

Dictionary example:

I've been making inquiries about/into the cost of a round-the-world ticket.

Learner example:

Dear Sue, I apologize for not responding to your letter for so long, but I didn't forget to make some inquiries relating to the job in the Water Sports Centre.

"Word family:

Nouns: origin, original Verbs: originate Adjectives: original

Adverbs: originally

ADJECTIVE

FIRST MADE

[ALWAYS BEFORE NOUN] existing since the beginning, or being the earliest form of something

Dictionary examples:

That was my original plan. Is this the original fireplace?

The gardens have recently been restored to their original glory.

Learner example:

The film was amazing, with excellent special effects and good actors, even if some of the story is

a little different from the original novel (which I've read twice!)

INTERESTING

special and interesting because of not being the same as others

Dictionary examples:

Her essay was full of original ideas.

He's a highly original thinker.

Learner example:

I like to be original.

DETERMINER DIFFERENT

different from the thing or person already mentioned

Dictionary examples:

I don't have any cash - is there no other way of paying? Ask me some other time when I'm not so busy.

He likes travelling abroad and learning about other people's customs and traditions.

Learner example:

The two kids [had] waited [long] enough so they decided to walk. The girl asked: ""Is there any other way the Man [can] hurt us?""

the other side/end (of sth)

the opposite side or end of something

Dictionary examples:

Put the chair at the other end of the desk.

The man was waiting on the other side of the street.

Learner example:

I'll move my bed to the other side of my room.

the other day/week, etc.

referring to a day, week, etc. in the recent past without saying exactly when it was

Dictionary example:

I saw him just the other day/night.

Learner example:

Dear John, Thanks for the letter you wrote me the other day.

PRONOUN

others

people in general, not including yourself

Dictionary example:

You shouldn't expect others to do your work for you.

Learner example:

I think that I would be very useful there, because I know that they need people who enjoy helping

others and I am one of those [people].

ADVERB

WHAT WOULD HAPPEN

used after an order or suggestion to show what the result will be if you do not follow that order or suggestion

Dictionary examples:

I'd better write it down, otherwise I'll forget it.

You really must phone home. Otherwise, your parents will start to worry.

Learner example:

Oh! I'll have to buy a table for the computer. Otherwise, I'll have to use my computer on my bed.

"NOUN [C]

an aircraft with a jet engine, which is able to fly very fast

Dictionary examples:

a jet plane a private jet

We flew to New York by jet.

Learner example:

After we went [in] his private jet to his mansion.

"NOUN [C]

an animal with horns which is kept to provide milk, meat, etc.

Dictionary example:

goat's milk/cheese

Learner example:

You can enjoy watching camels and goats passing once in the morning and [again] in the evening.

NOUN [C]

Oh my God! INFORMAL

! used to emphasize how surprised, angry, shocked, etc. you are

Dictionary example:

Oh my God! The car's been stolen.

Learner example:

Oh my god, your sister is getting married!

thank God INFORMAL

! something you say when you are happy because something bad did not happen

Dictionary example:

Thank God nobody was hurt in the accident.

Learner example:

""Thank God my car is OK"", [he] said.

"NOUN [PLURAL]

women's underwear that covers the bottom

Dictionary example:

Learner example:

There was one time when Pat and I had a fight. It all started when I accident[al]ly took the wrong bag back to my house, and there w[ere] lad[ies'] knickers inside.

"NOUN

the passive

the passive form of a verb

Dictionary example:

When changed into the passive, 'The dog chased the cat' becomes 'The cat was chased by the

dog'.

Learner example:

We were studying English grammar, the verbs, the conditionals, the passive and the active, etc. That was the first part, of the class.

ADJECTIVE

GRAMMAR

A passive verb or sentence is one in which the subject does not do or cause the action but is affected by it.

Dictionary example:

""He was released from prison."" is a passive sentence.

"VERB (left, left)

END RELATIONSHIP

[I or T] to end a relationship with a husband, wife, or partner and stop living with them

Dictionary examples:

I'll never leave you.

She left him for a younger man.

Learner example:

Jose, who is a bus driver, was very unhappy, because his girlfriend [had] left him.

"Word family:

Nouns: gym, gymnastics Adjectives: gymnastic

NOUN

BUILDING

[C] a building or room with equipment for doing exercises

Dictionary example:

Nick goes to the gym three times a week.

Learner example:

We went to a gym near my house.

EXERCISES

[U] exercises done inside, especially as a school subject

Dictionary example:

We have gym on Friday afternoons.

Learner example:

You can do gym, aqua, dance, boxing, squash, [and] tennis.

"Word family: Nouns: persuasion Verbs: persuade

Adjectives: persuasive

VERB [T]

MAKE SOMEONE AGREE

to make someone agree to do something by talking to them a lot about it

Dictionary examples:

If she doesn't want to go, nothing you can say will persuade her. I persuaded her (that) it was the right thing to do.

He is trying to persuade local and foreign businesses to invest in the project.

Using a bunch of bananas, the zoo-keeper persuaded the monkey back into its cage.

Learner example:

I had to persuade them to let me go and make enquiries.

"Word family: Nouns: living Verbs: live

Adjectives: lively, living

ADJECTIVE

full of energy and interest

Dictionary examples:

It's hard work teaching a class of lively children. a lively city

They take a lively interest in their grandchildren.

There was some lively discussion at the meeting.

Learner example:

Paris is very lively all day long and at night.

"Word family:

Adjectives: heavy Adverbs: heavily

ADVERB

a lot or to a great degree

Dictionary examples:

It was raining heavily. drink/smoke heavily

The terrorists are heavily armed.

She's heavily involved in the project.

Learner example:

One day, when I was walking out in the park with my friend, it started raining heavily.

"Word family:

Adjectives: main Adverbs: mainly

ADVERB

mostly or to a large degree

Dictionary examples:

The waitresses are mainly French.

They argued that the tax will mainly benefit the rich.

Learner example:

I often wear jeans, mainly blue jeans.

"Word family:

Nouns: politician, politics Adjectives: political

ADJECTIVE

relating to politics

Dictionary examples:

political leaders/parties

Education is back at the top of the political agenda.

Learner example:

I'm very interested in Italian political life, and I want to get news [all the] time.

"Word family:

Nouns: mess Adjectives: messy

ADJECTIVE

untidy or dirty

Dictionary examples:

a messy kitchen messy hair

His bedroom's always messy. My kids are both really messy.

Learner example:

It's completely messy now, looks like a war in my bedroom, because my bed has broken and I

need to buy a new bed quickly.

"Word family:

Nouns: hope Verbs: hope

Adjectives: hopeful, hopeless

Adverbs: hopefully, hopelessly

ADJECTIVE

NO HOPE

without hope

Dictionary examples:

a hopeless situation

They searched for survivors but it was hopeless.

She was depressed and felt totally hopeless about the future.

Learner example:

When my uncle heard about my new hobby, he bought me a chess-computer to train for my first

real match. At the moment I'm trying to win against it but I think it is hopeless.

"Word family: Nouns: preparation Verbs: prepare

Adjectives: prepared

ADJECTIVE

READY

ready to deal with a situation

Dictionary examples:

When she called on me, I wasn't prepared.

They were prepared for the worst.

Learner example:

I want to be well prepared for my first [trip] to England.

"NOUN [C] (PLURAL mosquitoes)

a small flying insect that sucks your blood, sometimes causing malaria

Dictionary example:

mosquito bites

Learner example:

You should stay in a city because of the things that only a city can offer and a[n] important detail about countryside is the mosquitoes, there are a lot!

Word family:

Adverbs: most, mostly

DETERMINER

MORE

the largest amount

Dictionary example:

Carlos earns the most money of all of us.

Learner example:

So, in this game, the people are there to win the most money they can.

"Word family:

Nouns: imagination Verbs: imagine

Adjectives: imaginary, imaginative

VERB [T]

FORM PICTURE

to form an idea or picture of something in your mind

Dictionary examples:

Imagine Robert Redford when he was young - that's what John looks like. Imagine (that) you're eating an ice cream - try to feel how cold it is.

She imagined herself sitting in her favourite armchair back home.

Learner example:

Just imagine the sun, the sea and all that fun on the beach.

UNDERSTAND

to have an idea of what something is like or might be like

Dictionary examples:

Can you imagine how it feels to be blind?

I can't imagine wanting to go out if I don't really know anyone.

Learner example:

You can't imagine how tired I am.

NOT REAL

to think that you hear or see something which does not really exist

Dictionary examples:

""Did you hear a noise?"" ""No, you're imagining things."" I can't hear anything - you must be imagining it.

Learner example:

I turn[ed] back but I didn't [see] anyone, so I thought that I had imagined it.

"NOUN

[C] the soft part of your face which is below your eye and between your mouth and ear

Dictionary examples:

rosy cheeks

The tears ran down her cheeks.

He kissed her on both cheeks.

Learner example:

I kissed him on the cheek and I left him.

"Word family: Adjectives: proper

Adverbs: properly

ADVERB

correctly, or in a satisfactory way

Dictionary examples:

It's still not working properly.

I'm not properly dressed for this sort of weather.

Come on, Evie, speak properly - you're not a baby any more!

Learner example:

Unfortunately my bicycle is not working properly, so I was just wondering if I could borrow

yours[?]

"Word family: Nouns: news Adjectives: new

Adverbs: newly

NOUN [U]

the news

the announcement of important events on television, radio, and in newspapers

Dictionary examples:

It was on the 6 o'clock news.

I usually listen to/watch the 9 o'clock news.

Learner example:

It'll be shown next Thursday, just after the news.

"Word family:

Nouns: collection, collector

Verbs: collect

VERB

BRING TOGETHER

[T] to get things from different places and bring them together

Dictionary examples:

Police collected a good deal of information during the investigation.

I collected up twenty bottles from various parts of the house.

Learner example:

The majority of people collect their own rubbish separately in their home, but they d[o] not separate the paper and the cardboard.

Word family:

Nouns: collection, collector Verbs: collect

NOUN

OBJECTS

[C] a group of objects of one type that have been collected by one person or in one place

Dictionary examples:

a private art collection

a valuable stamp collection

Learner example:

I'm going to buy the DVD named ""Lord of the Rings"" because I like it very much and want to have it in my DVD collection.

GROUP

[C] a group of things or people

Dictionary example:

There's quite a collection of toothbrushes in the bathroom.

Learner example:

I [wear] long t-shirts and I have a collection of sweaters.

"Word family: Nouns: intelligence

Adjectives: intelligent

ADJECTIVE

showing intelligence, or able to learn and understand things easily

Dictionary examples:

a highly intelligent young man an intelligent remark

Helen had a few intelligent things to say on the subject.

Learner example:

I've met my English teacher - she's very friendly and, I think, very intelligent.

"EXCLAMATION

Oh my God! INFORMAL

used to emphasize how surprised, angry, shocked, etc. you are

Dictionary example:

Oh my God! The car's been stolen.

Learner example:

Oh my god, your sister is getting married!

NOUN

FUEL

[U] a thick liquid that comes from under the Earth's surface that is used as a fuel and for making parts of machines move easily

Dictionary examples:

an oil company engine oil

Learner example:

He is working in a big oil company called Agip.

"Word family:

Nouns: journalism, journalist

NOUN [C]

a person who writes news stories or articles for a newspaper or magazine or

broadcasts them on radio or television

Dictionary example:

a freelance political journalist

Learner example:

She is a journalist [on] the local newspaper and we get along very well.

"Word family:

Nouns: confusion Verbs: confuse

Adjectives: confused, confusing

ADJECTIVE

NOT UNDERSTAND

unable to think clearly or to understand something

Dictionary examples:

People keep telling me different things and I'm getting very confused. Sorry, I'm a bit confused - are we meeting here or in town?

She seemed a bit confused about the arrangements.

Learner example:

At first I felt very confused.

"NOUN [C]

the part of a cooker with a door, which is used to cook food

Dictionary examples:

a microwave oven

a cool/medium/hot oven

Place the cake in the oven at 200°C.

Learner example:

They eat the traditional food souvlaki and potatoes [cooked] in the oven.

"Word family:

Nouns: knowledge, unknown

Verbs: know

Adjectives: known, unknown, knowledgeable

Adverbs: knowingly

ADJECTIVE

be known as sth

to be called

Dictionary example:

California is also known as the Sunshine State.

Learner example:

He studied in Central College, which is now known as Queen's College.

L

"VERB [I]

to force air out of your lungs through your throat with a short loud sound

Dictionary examples:

The smoke made me cough. I coughed all night long.

Learner example:

I kept coughing, my nose kept running!

NOUN [C]

when you cough or an illness that makes you cough

Dictionary examples:

a dry cough

Emily has a nasty cough.

Learner example:

Because of swimming so much I got a terrible cough and so I had to be sent back to school so

that I could be treated properly.

"NOUN [C]

a round green seed, several of which grow in a pod, eaten as a vegetable

Dictionary examples:

frozen/dried peas pea soup

Learner example:

I had a fish meal with some vegetables: peas, beans, carrots and lettuce.

"NOUN [C or U]

a plant with large green leaves, eaten raw in salads

Dictionary example:

Mix the lettuce and tomatoes together.

Learner example:

It contains two burgers, cheese, lettuce, tomato and [any]thing else that you want to put [i]n it.

"VERB [T]

CHOOSE

to choose something or someone

Dictionary examples:

Pick a card from the pack.

She was picked for the Olympic team.

She was picked to play for the team.

Learner example:

[I]n this restaurant, the[re] are all types of pizza [o]n a table and you can pick any pizza you want.

FLOWERS/FRUIT

If you pick flowers or fruit, you take them off a plant or tree.

Dictionary examples:

They were picking strawberries for twelve hours a day.

I picked some apples this morning.

Learner example:

Two weeks is quite a long time so I am planning to go cycling [i]n the mountains, gather acorns, pick flowers, go hiking and watch the sun set.

Word family:

Nouns: picture Adjectives: picturesque

NOUN

FILM

[C] a film

Dictionary example:

Could this be the first animated film to win a best picture award?

Learner example:

Now I can buy the DVD ""Star Trek - The Motion Picture"".

"Word family: Nouns: location

Verbs: locate, relocate

NOUN [C]

PLACE

a place or position

Dictionary examples:

The hotel is in a lovely location overlooking the lake.

A map showing the location of the property will be sent to you.

Learner example:

The village is in a peaceful location, within minutes of a safe lake, and an hour from a pretty town.

"Word family: Nouns: population

Verbs: populate

NOUN

NUMBER

[C or U] the number of people living in a particular area

Dictionary examples:

a growing/shrinking population What's the population of Brazil?

Learner example:

With a population [of] about 800 people, that town really surprised me!

"Word family:

Nouns: marriage Verbs: marry

Adjectives: married, unmarried

NOUN [C or U]

the legal relationship of a man and a woman being a husband and a wife, or the

ceremony where people become a husband and a wife

Dictionary examples:

They had a long and happy marriage.

She went to live abroad after the break-up of her marriage. She has two daughters by her first marriage.

a marriage certificate

Learner example:

After the marriage they go to a restaurant and eat something.

"VERB

PUSH

[I or T] to push something firmly, often without causing it to move permanently further away from you

Dictionary examples:

Press the button to start the machine. He pressed his face against the window.

Press down firmly on the lever.

Learner example:

When you press it, it will say: ""Congratulations"" to you.

ADJECTIVE

PLACE/OBJECT

If a place or an object is pretty, it is pleasant to look at.

Dictionary examples:

That's a pretty hat you're wearing. a pretty little village

Learner example:

Rabat is the capital of Morocco. There [are] a lot of attractions, like ancient historic sites, sandy beaches, [and a] pretty Moroccan market.

ADVERB INFORMAL

QUITE

quite, but not extremely or not completely

Dictionary examples:

The house has four bedrooms, so it's pretty big. I'm pretty sure it was her.

I've got a pretty good idea of how to get there.

Learner example:

The best thing about our club is the table tennis, which I'm getting pretty good at.

"NOUN [C]

UNIT

a unit for measuring distance, equal to 1609 metres or 1760 yards

Dictionary examples:

a ten-mile drive

The nearest town is ten miles away.

The latest high-speed trains can travel at 140 miles an/per hour.

Learner example:

I don't feel safe enough [any more], because the police station is 10 miles away and last week there was a burgl[ary] at my neighbour's house.

"Word family:

Nouns: provider, provision

Verbs: provide

VERB [T]

to give someone something that they need

Dictionary examples:

This booklet provides useful information/advice about local services.

All meals are provided throughout the course.

Learner example:

The restaurant provides excellent service.

"Word family:

Nouns: murder, murderer Verbs: murder

NOUN [C]

! someone who has committed murder

Dictionary example:

a mass murderer

Learner example:

A few weeks later the police caught the murderer of my best friend.

"Word family: Nouns: rain Verbs: rain

Adjectives: rainy

ADJECTIVE

raining a lot

Dictionary example:

a rainy afternoon

Learner example:

On a rainy night, I was walking down the street with an umbrella.

"NOUN [U]

entertainment for the night such as bars, clubs, restaurants, and theatres

Dictionary example:

What's the nightlife like around here?

Learner example:

The nightlife in my country is wonderful!

"Word family: Verbs: regard

Adverbs: regardless

PREPOSITION

about

Dictionary example:

The company is being questioned regarding its employment policy.

Learner example:

I apologise to you for missing tomorrow's class as I have to attend a meeting regarding the field

trip for our school with the Principal.

"ADVERB

NOWHERE ELSE

not in any other place

Dictionary examples:

At present these televisions are only available in Japan.

These birds are only found in New Zealand.

Learner example:

I think animals, just as human beings, can only live in their natural habitat.

RECENTLY

used to mean that something happened very recently

Dictionary examples:

I only arrived half an hour ago. They only put the roof on last week.

People were leaving and I'd only just arrived.

We'd only just set off when the car broke down.

Learner example:

I am really sorry I didn't write back earlier but I have only just got back from holiday.

NOT IMPORTANT

used to say that something is not important, or that you did not mean to upset someone

Dictionary examples:

Don't worry - it's only a scratch. I was only joking.

I was only trying to help.

Learner example:

It was only a dream!

if only

used when you want to say how doing something simple would make it possible to

avoid something unpleasant

Dictionary example:

If only she'd listen to what he's saying, I'm sure they could work it out.

If only I had been more careful.

"Word family:

Nouns: requirement Verbs: require

VERB [T]

NEED

to need or demand something

Dictionary examples:

Training to be a doctor requires a lot of hard work.

Please telephone this number if you require any further information. Skiing down a steep slope requires total concentration.

Learner example:

Weddings are very different in our country and require a lot of [prepara]tion.

"Word family:

Nouns: owner, ownership

Verbs: own

NOUN [C]

someone who owns something

Dictionary examples:

Are you the owner of this car?

We still haven't found the dog's owner.

Learner example:

The owner was an old woman who lives alone in a big house with her pet animals.

P

"NOUN [C]

BREAD

a small loaf of bread for one person

Dictionary example:

I had a roll with my soup.

Learner example:

We eat ham, cheese, butter and paprika, with [a] roll or bread.

"NOUN [C]

an oval-shaped nut with a thin brown shell

Dictionary examples:

peanut oil

salted/dry-roast(ed) peanuts

Learner example:

I went to the supermarket where I bought some peanuts, cheese dip and a bottle [of] soda.

"VERB [T] (said, said)

TELL

to tell someone about a fact, thought, or opinion

Dictionary examples:

Did she say where she was going?

Officials refused to say what had happened. What did they say about the house?

The doctors say (that) it will take him a few weeks to recover. She didn't say whether she was coming or not.

""Who do you think will get the job?"" ""I'd rather not say.""

What are you saying, exactly ?

Learner example:

Dear Mary, You asked me in your last letter about my bedroom. There aren't a lot of things to say about it, it is quite small but nice.

GIVE INFORMATION

to give information in writing, numbers or signs

Dictionary examples:

My watch says 3 o'clock.

Can you read what that notice says?

It says in the paper (that) they've found the man who did it. It says on the bottle to take three tablets a day.

Learner example:

Well yesterday I was reading a new fashion magazine. It says that this summer the best clothes to wear are skirts with different colours!

THINK

to think or believe

Dictionary examples:

People/They say (that) he's over 100.

""It's going to be a very hot summer."" ""So they say."" She is a firm leader, too firm, some might say.

Learner example:

People say that it never rains here.

"NOUN [C or U]

a long, green vegetable that you eat raw in salads

Dictionary example:

sliced cucumber

Learner example:

We ask[ed] for three burgers with cucumbers.

"NOUN [C or U]

a large fruit with thick skin and sharp leaves sticking out of the top which is sweet

and yellow inside

Dictionary examples:

pineapple juice

We ate some slices of pineapple.

Learner example:

[There is] some special fruit [here], like durian, pineapple, banana and so on.

"Word family:

Nouns: nonsense, sense, sensibility

Verbs: sense

Adjectives: sensible, senseless

Adverbs: sensibly

NOUN

FEELING

[NO PLURAL] a feeling or understanding about yourself or about a situation