[TOEFL][Voca] Paraphrase Practice 2

assign = delegate, specify, appoint, designate

 

1. Assign: "The teacher will assign homework every Monday."
   • Explanation: "Assign" is a general term that refers to giving someone a task or duty. It's often used in educational or professional settings.
2. Delegate: "As the project manager, it's your job to delegate tasks to your team members."
   • Explanation: "Delegate" specifically refers to entrusting tasks or responsibilities to others, typically subordinates or team members. It's commonly used in management and leadership contexts.
3. Specify: "Please specify your dietary restrictions on the form."
   • Explanation: "Specify" means to state something clearly and exactly. It can be used in many different contexts where details need to be clearly defined.
4. Appoint: "The president appointed her as the new Secretary of State."
   • Explanation: To 'appoint' someone is typically used when someone is given a specific role or position, often within an organization or governmental body.
5. Designate: "This area has been designated as a nature reserve."
   • Explanation: 'Designate' usually means assigning a particular status, category, or purpose to something; it is often used when referring to official decisions about roles, places etc.

 

threaten = endanger, intimidate, jeopardize, menace

 

1. Threaten: "The dark clouds threatened a downpour."
   • Explanation: To threaten generally means to give signs or indications of something negative or harmful that might happen in the future. It can also mean to express one's intention to harm or punish someone.
2. Endanger: "Pollution endangers many species of wildlife."
   • Explanation: Endanger specifically refers to putting someone or something at risk or in danger of harm, damage, or destruction.
3. Intimidate: "The bully tried to intimidate the smaller children."
   • Explanation: Intimidate is used when someone tries to frighten another person, often to make them do something they don't want to do.
4. Jeopardize: "Taking on more work could jeopardize your health."
   • Explanation: Jeopardize means putting something (like a plan, situation, or condition) at risk of harm or failure.
5. Menace: "The rapidly spreading disease is a menace to public health."
   • Explanation: Menace is used when referring to a person, thing, or circumstance that presents a potential threat/danger/harm.

 

crown = raise

 

1. Crown: This term is often used to denote the act of bestowing royal status or a championship on someone. For example, "After many grueling rounds of competition, she was finally crowned as the winner."
2. Raise: This term is more general and can refer to lifting something up or increasing something in quantity or intensity. For example, "He raised his hand to ask a question."

However, both terms can overlap when it comes to promoting someone or elevating their status.

For instance:

• Crown: "The company crowned her as the new CEO after years of hard work."
• Raise: "The company raised her to the position of CEO after recognizing her dedication and effort."

While these sentences are similar in meaning, note that using 'crown' has more formal or grand connotations than 'raise'.

 

archaic = old, primitive, outdated, antiquated, outmoded, out-of-date

 

1. Archaic: "The archaic language in the manuscript was difficult to translate."
   • Explanation: Archaic generally refers to something that is very old or old-fashioned, especially when it pertains to language or a system that is no longer in everyday use.
2. Old: "My old computer finally stopped working."
   • Explanation: Old is a general term referring to something that has existed for a long time or shows signs of age.
3. Primitive: "The tribe uses primitive tools for hunting."
   • Explanation: Primitive often refers to an early stage of development or technology, typically characterized by simplicity and often lacking the features of more modern iterations.
4. Outdated: "Outdated textbooks may not provide current information on their subjects."
   • Explanation: Outdated means no longer current or applicable; not updated with newer information, styles, developments etc.
5. Antiquated: "The antiquated laws no longer serve our modern society."
   • Explanation: Antiquated generally refers to things that are so old-fashioned they seem out of place in the present.
6. Outmoded : “His outmoded flip phone drew some curious looks at the tech conference.”
   • Explanation : Outmoded usually refers to styles, manners, methods etc., which have fallen out of fashion and not used anymore because they have been replaced by newer forms.
7. Out-of-date : “I realized my passport was out-of-date just days before my international trip.”
   • Explanation : Something described as 'out-of-date' is too old to be used/accepted/effective anymore; it's similar to 'expired' in many contexts.

 

hue = color

 

1. Hue: "The sunset was a breathtaking array of hues, from deep purple to fiery red."
   • Explanation: "Hue" is often used in more poetic or artistic contexts to refer to a color or shade. It's typically used when you want to emphasize the variety or subtlety of colors.
   • Connotation Level: Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level: Slightly more formal or specialized (artistic context)
2. Color: "I'm going to paint my room a different color."
   • Explanation: "Color" is a general term that can be used in many different contexts, from describing the appearance of objects, to metaphorically describing moods or attitudes ("Her cheeks were red with color").
   • Connotation Level: Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level: Both formal and informal

 

subdue = control, reduce, conquer, defeat, overpower, vanquish

 

1. Subdue: "The police subdued the thief."
   • Subdue means to control or calm down by force.
   • Connotation: Neutral
   • Formality: Both formal and informal
2. Control: "She controls her emotions well."
   • Control means to manage or direct.
   • Connotation: Neutral
   • Formality: Both formal and informal
3. Reduce: "We need to reduce our spending."
   • Reduce means to make less in amount.
   • Connotation: Neutral
   • Formality: Both formal and informal
4. Conquer: "They conquered the mountain peak."
   • Conquer means to overcome a challenge or an enemy.
   • Connotation : Generally positive (when referring to achievements)
   • Formality : More formal
5. Defeat: "Our team was defeated yesterday." – Defeat refers to losing against someone in a game or competition. – Connotation : Negative (when referring self), Positive (when referring others) – Formality : Both formal and informal
6. Overpower : "The older sibling overpowered the younger one in the game." – Overpower means being stronger than someone else and thus winning against them. – Connotation level Generally neutral – Formal / Informal level Both formal and informal

7. Vanquish :"The knight vanquished the dragon." – Vanquish is similar to conquer but is often used for dramatic effect, like in stories. – Connotation level Slightly positive – Formal / Informal level More formal

 

pare = peel, cheap off, flake off, skin, slice off/ reduce, cut (down), lower

 

1. Pare (in the context of peeling or slicing): "She carefully pared the apple, removing all its skin."
   • Explanation: In this context, "pare" means to cut off the outer layer or edge of something, often a fruit or vegetable. It implies careful or precise removal.
   • Connotation Level: Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level: Both formal and informal
2. Pare (in the context of reducing): "We need to pare down our expenses to save money."
   • Explanation: Here, "pare" means to reduce something gradually or bit by bit. It often suggests trimming excess or unnecessary parts.
   • Connotation Level: Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level: More formal

Comparatively:

• Peel: This is a more general term for removing the outer layer from something like a fruit or vegetable. Example sentence: "He peeled the banana before eating it."
  • Connotation level : Neutral
  • Formal / Informal level : Both formal and informal
• Chip off/Flake off/Skin/Slice off : These terms refer more specifically to different ways/methods of removing parts from something larger. For instance:
  • Chip off : Removing part by breaking it in small pieces
  • Flake off : Removing part in small thin pieces
  • Skin : Removing outer covering completely
  • Slice off : Cutting a piece using sharp tool
  All these terms are neutral in connotation and can be used both formally and informally.
• Reduce/Cut (down)/Lower : These words refer to decreasing size, amount, number etc., either gradually (reduce), suddenly/large amount (cut down) , downward direction/move towards lower position (lower). All these terms have neutral connotations and can be used both formally and informally.

reassure = build confidence of, encourage, assure, comfort, console, soothe

 

1. Reassure: "She reassured her friend that everything would be okay."
   • Explanation: Reassure means to remove doubts or fears; to make someone feel less worried.
   • Connotation Level: Positive
   • Formal/Informal Level: Both formal and informal
2. Build confidence of: "The coach's positive feedback helped build the team's confidence."
   • Explanation : Building confidence refers to encouraging or helping someone believe in their abilities.
   • Connotation Level : Positive
   • Formal/Informal Level : Both formal and informal
3. Encourage : “His parents encouraged him to pursue his passion for music.” – Explanation : Encourage means giving support, courage or hope; it implies urging someone to continue or improve. – Connotation level : Positive – Formal/Informal level : Both formal and informal
4. Assure :"He assured her that he would be home by dinner time." – Explanation Assuring someone typically means telling them something positively or confidently to dispel any doubts they may have. – Connotation level Generally positive – Formal / Informal level Both formal and informal

5.Comfort :"When she was upset, her mother's words comforted her." – Explanation Comforting refers to easing someone’s feelings of grief or distress. – Connotation level Positive – Formal / Informal level Both formal and informal

 

6.Console :"After the loss of his pet, his friends tried to console him." -Explanation Consoling involves comforting a person who is suffering from disappointment or grief. -Connotation level Positive -Formality More formal than comfort but can be used in both settings.

 

7.Soothe :"The sound of rain soothes me when I'm trying to sleep." -Explanation Soothing involves calming a person who is angry, disturbed, excited etc., often by providing a pleasant distraction -Connotation level Positive -Formality More formal than comfort but can be used in both settings.

 

discharge = release / carry out

 

1. Discharge (in the context of release): "After a week in hospital, he was discharged."
   • Explanation: In this context, "discharge" means to allow or enable to leave. It is often used when talking about patients being released from hospitals.
   • Connotation Level: Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level: More formal
2. Discharge (in the context of carrying out duties): "The soldier discharged his duties with diligence."
   • Explanation: Here, "discharge" means to perform or execute responsibilities or obligations.
   • Connotation Level: Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level: More formal

Comparatively:

• Release : This term generally refers to allowing someone/something to move freely after being confined/restrained. For example : "The bird was released into wild." It has neutral connotations and can be used both formally and informally.
• Carry out : This term generally refers performing an action or task that is required/demanded/requested etc., For example : "He carried out his boss's instructions accurately." It has neutral connotations and can be used both formally and informally.

 

infirm = frail, weak, feeble, fragile

 

1. Infirm: "His grandmother was becoming increasingly infirm."
   • Explanation: Infirm often refers to an elderly person who is weak or ill.
   • Connotation Level: Negative
   • Formal/Informal Level: More formal
2. Frail: "After his illness, he was very frail."
   • Explanation : Frail describes someone who is physically weak or delicate.
   • Connotation Level : Negative
   • Formal/Informal Level : Both formal and informal
3. Weak : “After running the marathon, she felt very weak.” – Explanation : Weak means lacking physical strength or vigor; it can also refer to lack of character strength. – Connotation level : Negative – Formal/Informal level : Both formal and informal
4. Feeble :"His feeble attempts at humor did not amuse anyone." – Explanation Feeble means lacking strength or effectiveness; it often suggests a higher degree of weakness than just 'weak'. – Connotation level Generally negative – Formal / Informal level More formal

5.Fragile :"The newborn kitten was fragile and needed careful handling." – Explanation Fragile refers to being easily broken or damaged; it can refer to both physical fragility (like glass) as well as emotional fragility (like a person's feelings). – Connotation level Negative – Formal / Informal level Both formal and informal

 

utilize = employ, use, apply, bestow, exercise, exploit, handle 

 

1. Utilize: "She utilized her programming skills to create a new app."
   • Explanation: Utilize means to make use of something effectively or put it into practical use.
   • Connotation Level: Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level: More formal
2. Employ: "He employed a clever strategy to win the game."
   • Explanation : Employ means to make use of something or someone for a particular purpose or task.
   • Connotation Level : Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level : Both formal and informal
3. Use : “I use my laptop for work every day.” – Explanation : Use is a general term that means to employ or operate something for a specific purpose. – Connotation level : Neutral – Formal/Informal level : Both formal and informal
4. Apply :"She applied her knowledge of physics to solve the problem." – Explanation Apply typically refers to putting into action or using something (such as knowledge, skills, techniques) in a specific context. – Connotation level Generally neutral – Formal / Informal level Both formal and informal

5.Bestow :"The king bestowed honors upon his loyal subjects." – Explanation Bestow often refers giving as an honor or presenting as gift; it's more about granting or conferring than just using. – Connotation level Positive – Formal / Informal level More formal

6.Exercise :"He exercises his right to vote in every election." -Explanation Exercise means putting into practice, utilizing, or implementing something (such as rights, authority). -Connotation level Neutral -Formality More formal than "use" but can be used in both settings.

7.Exploit :"They exploited the natural resources for economic gain." -Explanation Exploit can mean making full use of something (often with negative connotations), especially for personal gain without regard for ethical considerations. -Connotation level Negative -Formality More formal than "use" but can be used in both settings.

8.Handle :"She knows how to handle difficult situations with ease." -Explanation Handle refers to managing, dealing with, or controlling a situation skillfully. -Connotation level Neutral -Formality Both formal and informal.

 

patron = customer, client, guest

 

1. Patron: "As a patron of this library for many years, I've read countless books."
   • Explanation: A patron is a person who gives financial or other support to a person, organization, cause, or activity. It can also refer to a customer or client, especially a regular one, of a store or restaurant.
   • Connotation Level: Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level: More formal
2. Customer: "The store has seen an increase in customers since it extended its opening hours."
   • Explanation : A customer is someone who buys goods or services from a business.
   • Connotation Level : Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level : Both formal and informal
3. Client : “The lawyer met with his client to discuss the case.” – Explanation : A client is someone who uses the services or advice of a professional such as a lawyer or architect. – Connotation level : Neutral – Formal/Informal level : Both formal and informal
4. Guest :"We have guests staying with us this weekend." – Explanation A guest is someone who is invited to visit or stay in someone's home; it can also refer to customers at hotels and other establishments. – Connotation level Generally positive – Formal / Informal level Both formal and informal

 

crest = peak, acme, apex, pinnacle, top, summit

 

1. Crest: "We finally reached the crest of the hill after a long hike."
   • Explanation: A crest often refers to a peak or highest point, such as on a hill or wave.
   • Connotation Level: Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level: Both formal and informal
2. Peak: "The mountain peak was covered in snow."
   • Explanation : A peak refers to the pointed top of something, especially a mountain or ridge.
   • Connotation Level : Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level : Both formal and informal
3. Acme : “His success as an entrepreneur represents the acme of his career.” – Explanation : Acme is used to refer to the point at which someone or something is best, perfect, or most successful. – Connotation level : Positive – Formal/Informal level : More formal
4. Apex :"The apex predator in this ecosystem is the lion." – Explanation Apex can refer to either physical heights (like mountains) or metaphorical heights (like being at top in hierarchy). – Connotation level Generally positive – Formal / Informal level More formal

5. Pinnacle :"She had reached the pinnacle of her career when she became CEO." – Explanation Pinnacle often refers to highest point of achievement or success; it has both literal (physical height) & metaphorical uses. – Connotation level Positive – Formal / Informal level More formal

 

6. Top :"He climbed to the top of tree." -Explanation Top is general term for highest part/point/level/rank etc., It's used both literally & figuratively. -Connotation level Neutral -Formality Both formal and informal.

 

7.Summit :"They reached summit after two days climb." -Explanation Summit usually refers specifically to highest point on mountains/hills; it also means meeting/conference between high-level leaders. -Connotation level Neutral -Formality More formal than 'top' but can be used in both settings.

 

fluid = changeable, alterable, malleable, modifiable

 

1. Fluid: "The situation is fluid and can change rapidly."
   • Explanation: In this context, fluid refers to something that is capable of changing easily or is not fixed.
   • Connotation Level: Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level: Both formal and informal
2. Changeable: "The weather in spring can be quite changeable."
   • Explanation : Changeable means capable of or subject to change or alteration.
   • Connotation Level : Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level : Both formal and informal
3. Alterable : “The terms of the contract are alterable.” – Explanation : Alterable refers to something that can be changed or made different. – Connotation level : Neutral – Formal/Informal level : More formal
4. Malleable :"Gold is a malleable metal, which makes it useful for jewelry." – Explanation Malleable usually refers to a material's ability to be shaped or bent without breaking; it can also refer metaphorically to someone who is easily influenced. – Connotation level Generally neutral – Formal / Informal level More formal

5. Modifiable :"This software is modifiable according to your needs." – Explanation Modifiable refers specifically to ability being able modified/altered especially in context like plans/designs etc., – Connotation level Neutral – Formal / Informal level More formal

 

tranquil = calm, placid, serene, tranquil, undisturbed

 

1. Tranquil: "The tranquil surface of the lake reflected the clear blue sky."
   • Explanation: Tranquil often refers to a state that is calm, peaceful, quiet or still.
   • Connotation Level: Positive
   • Formal/Informal Level: Both formal and informal
2. Calm: "Despite the chaos around him, he remained calm."
   • Explanation : Calm usually means free from agitation or excitement; it can also refer to lack of strong winds or stormy weather.
   • Connotation Level : Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level : Both formal and informal
3. Placid : “The placid baby slept through all the noise.” – Explanation : Placid often means not easily upset or excited; it can also refer to a quiet and peaceful scene. – Connotation level : Positive – Formal/Informal level : More formal
4. Serene :"She had a serene expression on her face." – Explanation Serene usually refers to someone who is calm, peaceful, untroubled; it can also refer to very clear weather conditions. – Connotation level Generally positive – Formal / Informal level More formal

5. Undisturbed :"The undisturbed forest was home to many kinds of wildlife." – Explanation Undisturbed generally refers something being not interrupted or changed by others; it's about being left in peace without interference/disturbance. – Connotation level Neutral – Formal / Informal level More formal

 

inauspicious = ominous, unfavorable, baleful, baneful, threatening, unlucky

 

1. Inauspicious: "The journey had an inauspicious start when we lost our luggage."
   • Explanation: Inauspicious means not conducive to success; unpromising or unfavorable.
   • Connotation Level: Negative
   • Formal/Informal Level: More formal
2. Ominous: "The ominous clouds signaled the approach of a severe storm."
   • Explanation : Ominous means giving the impression that something bad or unpleasant is going to happen.
   • Connotation Level : Negative
   • Formal/Informal Level : Both formal and informal
3. Unfavorable : “The unfavorable weather conditions delayed our flight.” – Explanation : Unfavorable usually means not helpful or likely to cause problems or difficulties. – Connotation level : Negative – Formal/Informal level : Both formal and informal
4. Baleful :"His baleful gaze made me uncomfortable." – Explanation Baleful typically refers to something that threatens harm or is menacing. – Connotation level Generally negative – Formal / Informal level More formal

5. Baneful :"Smoking has a baneful effect on your health." – Explanation Baneful generally refers harmful, destructive; it's about causing ruin/damage/death etc., – Connotation level Very negative – Formal / Informal level More formal

 

6. Threatening :"He received a threatening letter from an anonymous sender." -Explanation Threatening generally refers to expressing intention cause harm/pain; it's about indicating potential danger/conflict. -Connotation level Negative -Formality Both formal and informal.

 

7. Unlucky :"It was unlucky that he missed his train by just one minute." -Explanation Unlucky refers lack of luck; it's about being unfortunate, often in specific situations/events. -Connotation level Neutral-Negative -Formality Both formal and informal.

 

incise = carve, cut, engrave, slice, slit

 

1. Incise: "The surgeon will incise the skin to remove the tumor."
   • Explanation: Incise typically refers to making a cut in something, especially with a sharp instrument like a knife or scalpel.
   • Connotation Level: Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level: More formal
2. Carve: "She carved her initials into the tree."
   • Explanation : Carve usually means to cut (a hard material) in order to produce an object, design, or inscription.
   • Connotation Level : Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level : Both formal and informal
3. Cut : “The chef cut the vegetables for soup.” – Explanation : Cut is a general term for using a tool to divide something into parts or make it smaller. – Connotation level : Neutral – Formal/Informal level : Both formal and informal
4. Engrave :"He engraved her name on the locket." – Explanation Engrave typically refers to cutting or carving text or designs onto a hard surface. – Connotation level Generally neutral – Formal / Informal level More formal

5. Slice :"She sliced bread for sandwiches." – Explanation Slice specifically refers cutting thin flat pieces from something; often associated with food preparation. – Connotation level Neutral – Formal / Informal level Both formal and informal.

6. Slit :"He slit open envelope with letter opener." -Explanation Slit usually means make long narrow cut/opening in something; often used when opening envelopes/packages etc., -Connotation level Neutral -Formality Both formal and informal.

 

capitalize on = take advantage of, abuse, exploit, impose on, play on, use

 

1. Capitalize on: "The company capitalized on the recent trend to increase their sales."
   • Explanation: Capitalize on typically refers to taking advantage of a situation or opportunity for one's own benefit.
   • Connotation Level: Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level: Both formal and informal
2. Take advantage of: "He took advantage of his opponent's mistake to win the game."
   • Explanation : Take advantage of usually means making use of an opportunity or available resources.
   • Connotation Level : Neutral, but can be negative if it implies unfairness
   • Formal/Informal Level : Both formal and informal
3. Abuse : “She abused her position by using company funds for personal expenses.” – Explanation : Abuse generally means to use something in a way that is wrong or harmful. – Connotation level : Negative – Formal/Informal level : Both formal and informal
4. Exploit :"Some companies exploit their workers by paying them very low wages." – Explanation Exploit typically refers to making full use or deriving benefit from a resource in an unfair manner. – Connotation level Generally negative – Formal / Informal level Both formal and informal

5. Impose on :"I don't want to impose on your hospitality any longer." – Explanation Impose on generally refers taking advantage by demanding someone's time or resources. – Connotation level Negative – Formal / Informal level More formal

6. Play on :"Advertisers often play on people's insecurities to sell products." -Explanation Play on usually means manipulate/exploit certain aspect (like feelings/emotions) for personal gain. -Connotation level Negative -Formality Both formal and informal.

7. Use :"She used her charm to get what she wanted." -Explanation Use here refers employing something effectively; it can be neutral but also negative if it implies manipulation/unfairness. -Connotation level Neutral-Negative -Formality Both formal and informal.

 

mammoth = gigantic, huge, colossal, enormous

 

1. Mammoth: "The mammoth project took five years to complete."
   • Explanation: Mammoth refers to something that is extremely large or massive.
   • Connotation Level: Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level: Both formal and informal
2. Gigantic: "The gigantic statue was visible from miles away."
   • Explanation : Gigantic usually means extremely large; bigger than typical or usual size.
   • Connotation Level : Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level : Both formal and informal
3. Huge : “He has a huge collection of stamps.” – Explanation : Huge generally means very big in size, amount, degree, importance etc., – Connotation level : Neutral – Formal/Informal level : Both formal and informal
4. Colossal :"The colossal ship dominated the harbor." – Explanation Colossal typically refers to something extremely large or great. – Connotation level Generally neutral – Formal / Informal level More formal

5. Enormous :"An enormous crowd gathered in the square." – Explanation Enormous generally refers very great in size, quantity or extent. – Connotation level Neutral – Formal / Informal level Both formal and informal.

 

inert = inactive, motionless, not moving, passive

 

1. Inert: "The gas is inert and will not react with other substances."
   • Explanation: Inert refers to a substance that is not chemically reactive. It can also mean lacking vigor, ability or strength to move.
   • Connotation Level: Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level: More formal
2. Inactive: "After months of being inactive, it was hard for him to start exercising again."
   • Explanation : Inactive usually means not engaging in physical activity or not being in use.
   • Connotation Level : Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level : Both formal and informal
3. Motionless : “He remained motionless, too shocked to respond.” – Explanation : Motionless generally means not moving; stationary. – Connotation level : Neutral – Formal/Informal level : Both formal and informal
4. Not moving :"The car was not moving due to a flat tire." – Explanation Not moving typically refers to something or someone that is stationary or at rest. – Connotation level Generally neutral – Formal / Informal level Both formal and informal

5. Passive :"She played a passive role in the discussion." – Explanation Passive generally refers showing no reaction or resistance; accepting things as they happen without active response/ resistance. – Connotation level Neutral – Formal / Informal level Both formal and informal.

 

obsolete = archaic, outdated, out of date, ancient, outworn/out of use, unused, dead, disused, superseded

 

1. Obsolete: "Typewriters have become obsolete in the digital age."
   • Explanation: Obsolete refers to something that is no longer produced or used; out of date.
   • Connotation Level: Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level: Both formal and informal
2. Archaic: "Archaic laws that are still on the books need to be revised."
   • Explanation : Archaic usually means very old or old-fashioned, especially when no longer useful or relevant.
   • Connotation Level : Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level : More formal
3. Outdated : “His ideas about gender roles are outdated.” – Explanation : Outdated generally means no longer valid or acceptable; outmoded. – Connotation level : Neutral – Formal/Informal level : Both formal and informal
4. Out of date :"This guidebook is out of date and doesn't include recent changes." – Explanation Out of date typically refers to something not current; old-fashioned or obsolete. – Connotation level Generally neutral – Formal / Informal level Both formal and informal

5. Ancient :"Ancient methods of communication seem primitive today."

– Explanation Ancient generally refers very old; belonging to distant past (often before middle ages). – Connotation level Neutral

– Formal / Informal level More formal.

 

6. Outworn/out of use :"The outworn traditions were gradually abandoned."

-Explanation Outworn/out of use usually means something that has been used too much and is therefore no longer effective or appealing.

-Connotation level Negative

-Formality Both formal and informal.

 

7. Unused :"The equipment lay unused in the warehouse for years."

-Explanation Unused refers not being used currently; often implies it's still capable/useful if needed.

-Connotation level Neutral

-Formality Both formal and informal.

 

8. Dead (in certain contexts):"That's a dead technology now."

-Explanation Dead here implies that particular technology isn't used anymore/inactive/no longer popular etc.,

-Connotation level Negative

-Formality More Informal.

 

9. Disused :"The disused factory was eventually demolished."

--Explanation Disused refers not currently in use; often implies it's been abandoned due to various reasons like obsolescence/deterioration etc.,

--Connotation level Negative
--Formality Both formal & informal

 

10. Superseded :"VHS tapes were superseded by DVDs, which were then superseded by streaming services."
--Explanation Superseded indicates replaced by something newer/better/more fashionable etc.,

--Connotation Level Neutral-Negative
--Formality Mostly Formal

 

net = final

 

1. Net: "After deducting all expenses, his net income was significantly lower."
   • Explanation: Net refers to what remains after everything else has been taken away. It's often used in financial contexts.
   • Connotation Level: Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level: More formal
2. Final: "After considering all the discounts, the final price was quite reasonable."
   • Explanation : Final usually means last in a series or coming at the end of a process.
   • Connotation Level : Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level : Both formal and informal

 

sterile = unproductive, barren, infertile, unfruitful

 

1. Sterile: "The lab must be kept sterile to prevent contamination."
   • Explanation: Sterile refers to a condition that is free from bacteria or other living microorganisms; totally clean. It can also mean not able to produce children or young.
   • Connotation Level: Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level: Both formal and informal
2. Unproductive: "The meeting was unproductive; we didn't come up with any new ideas."
   • Explanation : Unproductive usually means not producing or able to produce large amounts of goods, crops, or other commodities.
   • Connotation Level : Negative
   • Formal/Informal Level : Both formal and informal
3. Barren : “The barren land could not support any crops.” – Explanation : Barren generally means too poor to produce much or any vegetation. – Connotation level : Negative – Formal/Informal level : Both formal and informal
4. Infertile :"Despite their efforts, the infertile soil did not yield a good harvest." – Explanation Infertile typically refers to soil or land that does not have the necessary qualities for growing plants well. – Connotation level Generally negative – Formal / Informal level Both formal and informal

5. Unfruitful :"Their attempts at negotiation were unfruitful."

– Explanation Unfruitful generally refers failing to achieve the desired outcome; fruitless.

– Connotation level Negative

– Formal / Informal level More formal.

 

shard = fragment

 

1. Shard: "He stepped on a shard of glass that was left on the floor."
   • Explanation: A shard is a piece of broken ceramic, metal, glass, or rock, typically having sharp edges.
   • Connotation Level: Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level: Both formal and informal
2. Fragment: "Archaeologists found fragments of pottery at the dig site."
   • Explanation : A fragment is a small part broken off or separated from something.
   • Connotation Level : Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level : Both formal and informal

 

sediment = debris, residue, remains, remainder

 

1. Sediment: "The river water was cloudy with sediment."
   • Explanation: Sediment refers to matter that settles to the bottom of a liquid; it's often used in geological or environmental contexts.
   • Connotation Level: Neutral
   • Formal/Informal Level: Both formal and informal
2. Debris: "After the storm, the streets were filled with debris."
   • Explanation : Debris usually refers to scattered pieces of waste or remains, often after some sort of disaster.
   • Connotation Level : Negative
   • Formal/Informal Level : Both formal and informal
3. Residue : “There was a sticky residue left on the table after the party.” – Explanation : Residue generally refers to something that remains after a part is removed, disposed of, or used; remainder; remnant. – Connotation level : Neutral – Formal/Informal level : Both formal and informal
4. Remains :"The archaeologists discovered the remains of an ancient civilization." – Explanation Remains typically refer to the parts left over when other parts have been removed, consumed, or destroyed. – Connotation level Generally neutral – Formal / Informal level Both formal and informal

5. Remainder :"After selling most of its assets, the company had only a small remainder."

– Explanation Remainder generally refers what is left when everything else has been taken away.

– Connotation level Neutral

– Formal / Informal level More formal.