first Flashcards

Question

accuracy

Answer 1

1. uncountable] the state of being exact or correct; the ability to do something with skill and without making mistakes They questioned the accuracy of the information in the file. Candidates are judged on technical accuracy as well as artistic expression. She hits the ball with great accuracy. 2. [uncountable, countable] the degree to which a measurement, calculation, etc. is exact or correct the accuracy of radiocarbon dating to achieve accuracies of 50–70 per cent

Answer 2

1. in a way that is correct and true in every detail The article accurately reflects public opinion. The report accurately reflects the current state of the industry. 2. in an exact way Quantities must be measured accurately. 3. hitting or reaching the thing that was aimed at You need to hit the ball accurately.

Answer 3

1. a statement saying that you think a person is guilty of doing something wrong or illegal; the fact of accusing somebody I don't want to make an accusation until I have some proof. There was a hint of accusation in her voice. accusation of something accusations of corruption/cruelty/racism accusation against somebody At the time, no one believed her accusations against him. accusation that… He denied the accusation that he had ignored the problems.

Answer 4

1. to say that somebody has done something wrong or is guilty of something accuse somebody of something to accuse somebody of murder/a crime accuse somebody of doing something She accused him of lying. be accused of something The government was accused of incompetence. to be falsely/wrongly/unjustly accused of something (formal) They stand accused of crimes against humanity.

Answer 5

1. [uncountable, countable] (chemistry) a chemical, usually a liquid, that contains hydrogen and has a pH of less than seven. The hydrogen can be replaced by a metal to form a salt. Acids usually have a bitter sharp taste and can often burn holes in or damage things they touch. The acid burned a hole in her coat. Stomach acids can break down the poison. You will need a special chemical to neutralize the acid. 2. [uncountable] (slang) a powerful illegal drug that affects people’s minds and makes them see and hear things that are not really there They smoke joints and drop acid. He described the music as ‘Brahms on acid’.

Answer 6

1. [uncountable] the act of getting something, especially knowledge, a skill, etc. theories of child language acquisition 2. [countable] something that somebody buys to add to what they already own, usually something valuable His latest acquisition is a racehorse. The money will be spent on acquisitions for the university library. 3. [countable, uncountable] (business) a company, piece of land, etc. bought by somebody, especially another company; the act of buying it They have made acquisitions in several EU countries. the acquisition of shares by employees The group has announced its first overseas acquisition: a successful software company. The company has just made another acquisition.

Answer 7

1. (in Britain and North America) a unit for measuring an area of land; 4 840 square yards or about 4 050 square metres 3 000 acres of parkland a three-acre wood (informal) Each house has acres of space around it (= a lot of space).

Answer 8

1. activate something to make something such as a device or chemical process start working The burglar alarm is activated by movement. The gene is activated by a specific protein.

Answer 9

1. the act of making something such as a device or chemical process start working The activation of several target genes results in two major effects. to trigger/inhibit/block the activation of something

Answer 10

1. a person who works to achieve political or social change, especially as a member of an organization with particular aims human/civil/animal rights activists Thousands of environmental activists joined the march to demand action on climate change. The Prime Minister will face party activists when she addresses the party conference tomorrow.

Answer 11

1. very serious or severe There is an acute shortage of water. acute pain the world’s acute environmental problems Competition for jobs is acute. The scandal was an acute embarrassment for the President. He was suffering from acute chest pains. 2. an acute illness is one that has quickly become severe and dangerous acute appendicitis 3. describing or designed for patients suffering from an acute illness acute patients an acute ward 4. (of the senses) very sensitive and well developed Dogs have an acute sense of smell. 5. intelligent and quick to notice and understand things He is an acute observer of the social scene. Her judgement is acute. 6. [usually before noun] (geometry) (of an angle) less than 90°

Answer 12

1. [uncountable, countable] the action or process of changing something, or of being changed, to suit a new purpose or situation the adaptation of buildings for military purposes adaptation to something The process of adaptation to a new school is difficult for some children. making adaptations to your home 2. [countable] a film, television drama or play that is based on a particular book or play but has been changed to suit the new medium a screen adaptation of Shakespeare’s ‘Macbeth’ 3. [uncountable, countable] adaptation (of something) (to something) (biology) the process of change by which a species becomes better suited to its environment the adaptation of desert species to the hot conditions Adaptations in plants occur over thousands of years.

Answer 13

1. the condition of being unable to stop using or doing something as a habit, especially something harmful cocaine addiction addiction to something He is now fighting his addiction to alcohol. an addiction to TV game shows/social media/gambling

Answer 14

1. in a way that is more than was first mentioned or is usual Additionally, the bus service will run on Sundays, every two hours.

Answer 15

1. enough in quantity, or good enough in quality, for a particular purpose or need They'll need an adequate supply of hot water. The room was small but adequate. There is a lack of adequate provision for students who use wheelchairs. He didn't give an adequate answer to the question. adequate for something The space available is not adequate for our needs. adequate to do something training that is adequate to meet the future needs of industry

Answer 16

1. in a way that is enough in quantity, or good enough in quality, for a particular purpose or need Are you adequately insured?

Answer 17

1. adhere (to something) to stick to something Once in the bloodstream, the bacteria adhere to the surface of the red cells. Clean the surface first, or the paint will not adhere. There was oil adhering to the bird’s feathers. The tiles may not adhere properly if you do not use the correct glue.

Answer 18

1. next to something The planes landed on adjacent runways. numbers that are adjacent in the sequence adjacent to something Our farm land was adjacent to the river. The vineyards of Verzy lie adjacent to those of Verzenay. There is a row of houses immediately adjacent to the factory.

Answer 19

1. [transitive] to change something slightly to make it more suitable for a new set of conditions or to make it work better adjust something Watch out for sharp bends and adjust your speed accordingly. This button is for adjusting the volume. The brakes need to be adjusted. adjust something to something Adjust your language to the age of your audience. 2. [intransitive, transitive] to get used to a new situation by changing the way you behave and/or think They'll be fine—they just need time to adjust. adjust to something After a while his eyes adjusted to the dark. adjust to doing something It took her a while to adjust to living alone. It can be difficult to adjust to being a parent. adjust yourself to something You'll quickly adjust yourself to student life. My eyes were still trying to adjust themselves to the strong sunlight. 3. adjust something to move something slightly so that it looks neater or feels more comfortable He smoothed his hair and adjusted his tie.

Answer 20

1. adjustment (to something) a small change made to something in order to correct or improve it I've made a few adjustments to the design. Some adjustment of the lens may be necessary. 2. adjustment (to something) a change in the way a person behaves or thinks She went through a period of emotional adjustment after her marriage broke up. The process of adjustment to life in another country can be very difficult. There was a long period of adjustment under the new boss.

Answer 21

1. administer something to manage and organize the affairs of a company, an organization, a country, etc. to administer a charity/fund/school the high cost of administering medical services The pension funds are administered by commercial banks. 2. administer something to make sure that something is done fairly and in the correct way to administer justice/the law The questionnaire was administered by trained interviewers. 3. administer something (to somebody) (formal) to give or to provide something, especially in a formal way The teacher has the authority to administer punishment. A taxi driver administered first aid to the victims. The priest was called to administer the last rites. 4. to give drugs, medicine, etc. to somebody administer something Police believe his wife could not have administered the poison. administer something to somebody The dose was administered to the child intravenously. 5. administer a kick, a punch, etc. (to somebody/something) (formal) to kick or to hit somebody/something He administered a severe blow to his opponent's head.

Answer 22

1. connected with organizing the work of a business or an institution an administrative job/assistant/error

Answer 23

1. a person whose job is to manage and organize the public or business affairs of a company or an institution, or a person who works in an office dealing with records, accounts, etc. Such organizational decisions are made by the hospital administrators. For an application form, please contact our administrator. 2. person who manages a computer system and controls who can access it If you are unable to access the site, contact your system administrator.

Answer 24

1. [uncountable, countable] the act of accepting somebody into an institution, organization, etc.; the right to enter a place or to join an institution or organization Hospital admission is not necessary in most cases. Hospital admissions for asthma attacks have doubled. the university admissions policy/office They tried to get into the club but were refused admission. She failed to gain admission to the university of her choice. Is there any charge for admission? There was a steady decline in cinema admissions during the 1960s. admission to something countries applying for admission to the European Union Last admissions to the park are at 4 p.m. 2. [countable] a statement in which somebody admits that something is true, especially something wrong or bad that they have done He is a thief by his own admission (= he has admitted it). admission of something an admission of guilt/failure/defeat admission that… The minister's resignation was an admission that she had lied. 3. [uncountable] the amount of money that you pay to go into a building or to an event admission charges/prices £5 admission What's the admission?

Answer 25

1. a young person who is developing from a child into an adult adolescents between the ages of 13 and 18 and the problems they face Stop acting like an adolescent!

Answer 26

1. [uncountable, countable] the act of adopting a child; the fact of being adopted She put the baby up for adoption. The number of adoptions has fallen markedly since the 1970s. adoption into something his adoption into an American family 2. [uncountable] the decision to start using something such as an idea, a plan or a name The widespread adoption of new information technology could save $162 billion a year. The committee recommended the adoption of new safety procedures.

Answer 27

1. negative and unpleasant; not likely to produce a good result adverse change/circumstances/weather conditions Lack of money will have an adverse effect on our research programme. They have attracted strong adverse criticism. This drug is known to have adverse side effects.

Answer 28

1. (formal) a person who supports or speaks in favour of somebody or of a public plan or action advocate for something/somebody an advocate for hospital workers advocate of something/somebody a staunch advocate of free speech 2. (law) a person who defends somebody in court Solicitors often appear as advocates in the lower courts. Those charged should be represented by trained, qualified legal advocates.

Answer 29

1. connected with beauty and art and the understanding of beautiful things the aesthetic appeal of the songs an aesthetic appreciation of the landscape The works of art are judged on purely aesthetic grounds. The benefits of conservation are both financial and aesthetic. 2. made in an artistic way and beautiful to look at Their furniture was more aesthetic than functional.

Answer 30

1. [uncountable, singular] the feeling of liking or loving somebody/something very much and caring about them Children need lots of love and affection. He didn't show his wife any affection. She was held in deep affection by all her students. affection for somebody/something Mr Darcy’s affection for his sister I have a great affection for New York. 2. affections [plural] (formal or literary) a person’s feelings of love Anne had two men trying to win her affections. The object of her affections was a young man named Paul.

Answer 31

1. cheap enough that people can afford to pay it or buy it We offer quality products at affordable prices. There is a lack of affordable housing in the city. This model is relatively affordable at just $85.

Answer 32

1. the situation that exists as a result of an important (and usually unpleasant) event, especially a war, an accident, etc. in the aftermath of something A lot of rebuilding took place in the aftermath of the war. the assassination of the prime minister and its immediate aftermath How does a country cope with the aftermath of war? The president visited the region in the immediate aftermath of the disaster.

Answer 33

1. [not before noun] of the age of They have two children aged six and nine. volunteers aged between 25 and 40 Children have the opportunity to meet similarly aged children. 2. (formal) very old my aged aunt People caring for an aged relative need support. I’m not sure if my aged car can make it up that hill. 3. the aged

Answer 34

1. [uncountable] feelings of anger and hate that may result in threatening or violent behaviour The research shows that computer games may cause aggression. Nowadays our aggression is channelled into sports. 2. [uncountable, countable] a violent attack or threats by one person against another person or by one country against another country unprovoked military aggression

Answer 35

1. the science or practice of farming The number of people employed in agriculture has fallen in the last decade. 50% of the country’s population depends on agriculture.

Answer 36

1. connected with the science or practice of farming agricultural policy/land/production/development

Answer 37

1. a person who helps another person, especially a politician, in their job White House aides

Answer 38

1. a serious illness caused by a virus called HIV that attacks the body’s ability to resist infection (the abbreviation for ‘Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome’) the AIDS epidemic to fight/eradicate/combat AIDS people who have battled and survived AIDS AIDS research/education She died of an AIDs-related illness at the age of 54.

Answer 39

1. to warn somebody about a dangerous situation or one that requires immediate action alert somebody Neighbours quickly alerted the emergency services. (be) alerted by something Alerted by a noise downstairs, he sat up and turned on the light. be alerted that… The coastguard were alerted that a yacht had run into difficulties. 2. to make somebody aware of something be alerted to something They had been alerted to the possibility of further price rises.

Answer 40

1. North American English also non-citizen) (law or specialist) a person who is not a citizen of the country in which they live or work an illegal alien 2. a creature from another world aliens from outer space

Answer 41

1. [intransitive, transitive] align (something) (with something) to arrange something in the correct position, or to be in the correct position, in relation to something else, especially in a straight line Make sure the shelf is aligned with the top of the cupboard. The top and bottom line of each column on the page should align. 2. [transitive] align something (with/to something) to change something slightly so that it is in the correct relationship to something else Domestic prices have been aligned with those in world markets.

Answer 42

1. arrangement in a straight line the alignment of the sun, moon and earth at a particular time out of alignment (with something) A bone in my spine was out of alignment. in alignment (with something) The door needs to be in alignment with the frame before you start work on it. 2. a situation in which something is in the correct relationship with something else alignment between A and B Alignment between our commercial and creative goals is crucial. in alignment (with something) We will implement policies in alignment with our fiscal goals. Property prices are too high and need to be brought back into alignment. 3. political, business or other support given to one country or group by another alignment with somebody/something our alignment with leading Latin American companies

Answer 43

1. in a very similar way They tried to treat all their children alike. 2. used after you have referred to two people or groups, to mean ‘both’ or ‘equally’ Good management benefits employers and employees alike.

Answer 44

1. a public statement that is made without giving proof, accusing somebody of doing something that is wrong or illegal o investigate/deny/withdraw an allegation allegation of something Several newspapers made allegations of corruption in the city's police department. allegation (of something) against somebody allegations of dishonesty against him allegation about somebody/something The committee has made serious allegations about interference in its work. allegation that… an allegation that he had been dishonest

Answer 45

1. to state something as a fact but without giving proof allege (that)… The prosecution alleges (that) she was driving carelessly. it is alleged (that)… It is alleged that he mistreated the prisoners. be alleged to be, have, etc. something He is alleged to have mistreated the prisoners. allege something This procedure should be followed in cases where dishonesty has been alleged.

Answer 46

1. expressed as though something is a fact but without giving any proof crimes allegedly committed during the war

Answer 47

1. an agreement between countries, political parties, etc. to work together in order to achieve something that they all want to form/make an alliance alliance with somebody/something The Social Democrats are now in alliance with the Greens. alliance between A and B an alliance between education and business to develop the use of technology in schools 2. a group of people, political parties, etc. who work together in order to achieve something that they all want The Green Alliance was formed to campaign against environmental damage.

Answer 48

1. to give something officially to somebody/something for a particular purpose allocate something (for something) A large sum has been allocated for buying new books for the library. allocate something (to somebody/something) They intend to allocate more places to mature students this year. More resources are being allocated to the project. allocate somebody/something sth The project is being allocated more resources. allocate something to do something Millions have been allocated to improve students' performance.

Answer 49

1. [countable] an amount of money, space, etc. that is given to somebody for a particular purpose We have spent our entire allocation for the year. 2. [uncountable] the act of giving something to somebody for a particular purpose the allocation of food to those who need it most

Answer 50

1. an amount of money that is given to somebody regularly or for a particular purpose an allowance of $20 a day a clothing/living/travel allowance Do you get an allowance for clothing? 2. the amount of something that is allowed in a particular situation a baggage allowance of 20 kilos Roman soldiers received a salt allowance, called salarium, the origin of the word salary. The recommended daily allowance of vitamin C is 60–90 milligrams. 3. especially North American English) (also pocket money especially in British English) a small amount of money that parents give their children, usually every week or every month

Answer 51

1. [countable] a country that has agreed to help and support another country, especially in case of a war our European/NATO allies a loyal ally of the United States Portugal is a traditional ally of England. 2. [countable] a person who helps and supports somebody who is in a difficult situation, especially a politician a close ally and friend of the prime minister her most powerful political ally His sister was his ally against their grandparents. 3. a person who offers their support to a particular group of people in society that they themselves do not belong to, in order to help ensure their basic rights and ability to be happy and successful in society Fran has been an ally to First Nations people her whole life. Being an ally to somebody means acting when you see an injustice. 4. the Allies [plural] the group of countries including the UK and the US that fought together in the First and Second World Wars the Western Allies

Answer 52

1. next to or at the side of somebody/something Nick caught up with me and rode alongside.

Answer 53

1. (used to emphasize something) completely; in every way The train went slower and slower until it stopped altogether. I don't altogether agree with you. I am not altogether happy (= I am very unhappy) about the decision. It was an altogether different situation. I’m not altogether convinced, I’m afraid. 2. used to give a total number or amount You owe me £68 altogether. 3. used to introduce a summary when you have mentioned a number of different things The food was good and we loved the music. Altogether it was a great evening.

Answer 54

1. a chemical element. Aluminium is a light, silver-grey metal used for making pans, etc. aluminium saucepans/window frames aluminium foil (= for example, for wrapping food in)

Answer 55

1. [usually before noun] doing something for pleasure or interest, not as a job an amateur photographer 2. [usually before noun] done for pleasure, not as a job amateur athletics 3. (also amateurish) (usually disapproving) not done or made well or with skill The performance sounded very amateur, I’m afraid.

Answer 56

1. an official who lives in a foreign country as the senior representative there of their own country the British Ambassador to Italy/in Rome a former ambassador to the UN 2. a person who represents or promotes a particular activity The best ambassadors for the sport are the players.

Answer 57

1. determined to be successful, rich, powerful, etc. a fiercely ambitious young manager They were very ambitious for their children (= they wanted them to be successful) 2. needing a lot of effort, money or time to succeed the government’s ambitious plans for social reform Jogging every morning? That’s very ambitious, isn’t it? Several interns will be working on three ambitious new projects.

Answer 58

1. a vehicle with special equipment, used for taking sick or injured people to a hospital Call an ambulance! the ambulance service The ambulance crew rushed her to the hospital.

Answer 59

1. amend something to change a law, document, statement, etc. slightly in order to correct a mistake or to improve it He asked to see the amended version. The law has been amended to read as follows:… Parliament will vote to amend the constitution.

Answer 60

1. [countable, uncountable] a small change or improvement that is made to a document or proposed new law; the process of changing a document or proposed new law to introduce/propose/table an amendment (= to suggest it) Parliament passed the bill without further amendment. amendment to something She made several minor amendments to her essay. 2. Amendment [countable] a statement of a change to the Constitution of the US The 19th Amendment gave women the right to vote.

Answer 61

1. in the middle of or during something, especially something that causes excitement or fear He finished his speech amid tremendous applause. The firm collapsed amid allegations of fraud. 2. surrounded by something The hotel was in a beautiful position amid lemon groves.

Answer 62

1. funny and giving pleasure an amusing story/game/incident She writes very amusing letters. I didn't find the joke at all amusing. She told us about an amusing incident that happened on her way home.

Answer 63

1. [countable] a comparison of one thing with another thing that has similar features; a feature that is similar analogy (between A and B) The teacher drew an analogy between the human heart and a pump. analogy (with something) There are no analogies with any previous legal cases. 2. [uncountable] the process of comparing one thing with another thing that has similar features in order to explain it learning by analogy We can understand this theory by analogy with human beings.

Answer 64

1. a person whose job involves examining facts or materials in order to give an opinion on them a political/financial analyst a food/market analyst He's a senior research analyst at Deutsche Bank. analysts expect/predict… City analysts forecast huge profits this year. according to an analyst According to music industry analysts, music downloads are set to decline by as much as 30 per cent this year. 2. also psychoanalyst) a person who treats patients using psychoanalysis

Answer 65

1. a person in your family who lived a long time ago His ancestors had come to America from Ireland. 2. an animal that lived in the past that a modern animal has developed from a reptile that was the common ancestor of lizards and turtles 3. an early form of a machine that later became more developed The ancestor of the modern bicycle was called a penny-farthing.

Answer 66

1. a heavy metal object that is attached to a rope or chain and dropped over the side of a ship or boat to keep it in one place to drop anchor We raised the anchor and set sail. We weighed anchor (= pulled it out of the water). at anchor The ship lay at anchor two miles off the rocky coast. 2. a person or thing that gives somebody a feeling of safety the anchor of the family 3. (also news anchor) a person who presents a live radio or television programme and introduces reports by other people; an anchorman or anchorwoman She was questioned by an NBC anchor about her trip. ABC news anchor Peter Jennings

Answer 67

1. a spirit who is believed to be a servant of God, and is sent by God to deliver a message or perform a task. Angels are often shown dressed in white, with wings. a host of angels 2. a person who is very good and kind; a child who behaves well John is no angel, believe me (= he does not behave well). Mary’s children are little angels. I could hardly see Lisa in the role of ministering angel. 3. (informal) used when you are talking to somebody and you are grateful to them Thanks Dad, you're an angel. Be an angel and make me a cup of coffee. 4. (also angel investor, business angel) a person who supports a business by investing money in it, especially somebody who supports a new small business with their own money When will the angels get their money back? They started the business with the help of $2 million supplied by angel investors.

Answer 68

1. [uncountable] the process of making films, videos and computer games in which drawings, models or images of people and animals seem to move computer/cartoon animation 2. [countable] a film in which drawings, models or images of people and animals seem to move The electronic dictionary included some animations. 3. [uncountable] energy and enthusiasm in the way you look, behave or speak His face was drained of all colour and animation. She talked about her new job with great animation.

Answer 69

1. [countable, uncountable] apology (to somebody) (for something) a word or statement saying sorry for something that has been done wrong or that causes a problem to offer/make/demand/accept an apology You owe him an apology for what you said. We should like to offer our apologies for the delay to your flight today. We received a letter of apology. 2. [countable, usually plural] information that you cannot go to a meeting or must leave early The meeting started with apologies (= the names of people who said they could not go to the meeting). (formal) She made her apologies and left early.

Answer 70

1. [uncountable] the tools or other pieces of equipment that are needed for a particular activity or task a piece of laboratory apparatus Firefighters needed breathing apparatus to enter the burning house. Science departments say they are lacking basic apparatus. 2. [countable, usually singular] the structure of a system or an organization, particularly that of a political party or a government the power of the state apparatus We cannot do without the apparatus of government in protecting the rights of the individual. 3. [countable, usually singular] (specialist) a system of organs in the body the sensory apparatus

Answer 71

1. (especially North American English) clothing, when it is being sold in shops The store sells women's and children's apparel. 2. old-fashioned or formal) clothes, particularly those worn on a formal occasion lords and ladies in fine apparel

Answer 72

1. attractive or interesting Spending the holidays in Britain wasn't a prospect that I found particularly appealing. Brightly coloured packaging made the pens especially appealing to children. The large salary made their offer even more appealing to him. 2. showing that you want people to help you or to show you sympathy ‘Would you really help?’ he said with an appealing look.

Answer 73

1. [uncountable, countable, usually singular] physical desire for food He suffered from headaches and loss of appetite. The walk gave me a good appetite. Don't spoil your appetite by eating between meals. 2. [countable] a strong desire for something sexual appetites The preview was intended to whet your appetite (= make you want more). appetite for something The public have an insatiable appetite for scandal. There is no appetite for (= people do not want) massive federal investment in the US.

Answer 74

1. [intransitive, transitive] to show your approval of somebody/something by clapping your hands (= hitting your open hands together several times) He started to applaud and the others joined in. applaud somebody They rose to applaud the speaker. She was applauded as she came on stage. The audience applauded loudly. 2. [transitive] (formal) to express praise for somebody/something because you approve of them or it applaud something We applaud her decision. His efforts to improve the situation are to be applauded. The decision to save the company has been warmly applauded. applaud somebody (for something) I applaud her for having the courage to refuse.

Answer 75

1. that can be said to be true in the case of somebody/something Give details of children where applicable (= if you have any). applicable to somebody/something Much of the form was not applicable (= did not apply) to me.

Answer 76

1. applicant (for something) a person who makes a formal request for something (= applies for it), especially for a job, a place at a college or university, etc. There were over 500 applicants for the job. Successful applicants will receive notification within the week.

Answer 77

1. to choose somebody for a job or position of responsibility appoint somebody They have appointed a new head teacher at my son's school. appoint somebody to something She has recently been appointed to the committee. appoint somebody (as) something They appointed him (as) captain of the English team. She's been appointed British ambassador to the UN. appoint somebody to do something A lawyer was appointed to represent the child. 2. [usually passive] (formal) to arrange or decide on a time or place for doing something be appointed A date for the meeting is still to be appointed. Everyone was assembled at the appointed time.

Answer 78

1. [uncountable] pleasure that you have when you recognize and enjoy the good qualities of somebody/something She shows little appreciation of good music. in appreciation The crowd murmured in appreciation. 2. [uncountable, singular] appreciation of something a full understanding of something, such as a situation or a problem, and of what it involves I had no appreciation of the problems they faced. 3. [uncountable, singular] the feeling of being grateful for something I would like to express my appreciation and thanks to you all. in appreciation of something Please accept this gift in appreciation of all you've done for us. appreciation for something She never shows any appreciation for our efforts. appreciation of something The clock was presented to Snell by his colleagues as an appreciation of his work and friendship. 4. [uncountable, singular] appreciation (in something) increase in value over a period of time OPPOSITE depreciation an appreciation in the value of the house capital appreciation 5. [countable] appreciation (of something) (formal) a piece of writing or a speech in which the strengths and weaknesses of somebody/something, especially an artist or a work of art, are discussed and judged They were asked to write an appreciation of a poem of their choice.

Answer 79

1. in a way that is suitable, acceptable or correct for the particular circumstances The government has been accused of not responding appropriately to the needs of the homeless. The chain of volcanoes is known, appropriately enough, as the ‘Ring of Fire’.

Answer 80

1. (of an action, a decision, a rule, etc.) not seeming to be based on a reason, system or plan and sometimes seeming unfair The choice of players for the team seemed completely arbitrary. He makes unpredictable, arbitrary decisions. 2. (formal) using power without limits and without considering other people the arbitrary powers of officials

Answer 81

1. relating to architecture and buildings architectural features

Answer 82

1. a collection of historical documents or records of a government, a family, a place or an organization; the place where these records are stored the National Sound Archive archive film The BBC's archives are bulging with material. 2. (computing) an electronic record of the data on a computer system, stored on a separate device for safety and security Optical media is perfect for storing archives of critical corporate data, such as financial records.

Answer 83

1. a place with a flat open area in the middle and seats around it where people can watch sports and entertainment a concert at Wembley Arena an indoor sports arena a hockey/basketball arena plans to construct a new downtown arena 2. (formal) an area of activity that interests the public, especially one where there is a lot of opposition between different groups or countries the political/international arena

Answer 84

1. either of the two long parts that stick out from the top of the body and connect the shoulders to the hands He escaped with only a broken arm. Pearl wrapped her arms around his waist and hugged him tightly. She threw her arms around his neck. He was running forward, waving his arms. by the arm The officer grabbed him by the arm (= grabbed his arm). in somebody's arms She cradled the child in her arms. They fell asleep in each other's arms (= holding each other). on somebody's arm He walked in with a tall blonde woman on his arm (= next to him and holding his arm). under somebody's arm He was carrying a number of files under his arm (= between his arm and his body). He held the dirty rag at arm's length (= as far away from his body as possible). They walked along arm in arm (= with the arm of one person linked with the arm of the other). She touched him gently on the arm. Vincent folded his arms across his chest and turned to walk away. He has a tattoo on his upper right arm. 2. the part of a piece of clothing that covers the arm SYNONYM sleeve The arms will need shortening. 3. the part of a chair, etc. on which you rest your arms She perched on the arm of his chair. 4. a long narrow part of an object or a machine, especially one that moves a robotic arm 5. a long narrow piece of water or land that is joined to a larger area A small bridge spans the arm of the river. 6. [usually singular] arm (of something) a section of a large organization that deals with one particular activity SYNONYM wing the research arm of the company The bank plans to sell part of its US finance arm.

Answer 85

1. [usually singular] a group or collection of things or people, often one that is large or impressive a vast array of bottles of different shapes and sizes a dazzling array of talent 2. (computing) a way of organizing and storing related data in a computer memory 3. (specialist) a set of numbers, signs or values arranged in rows and columns

Answer 86

1. a thin stick with a sharp point at one end, which is shot from a bow a bow and arrow to fire/shoot an arrow The road continues as straight as an arrow. 2. a mark or sign like an arrow (➞), used to show direction or position Follow the arrows. Use the arrow keys to move the cursor.

Answer 87

1. [transitive] articulate something (to somebody) (formal) to express or explain your thoughts or feelings clearly in words She struggled to articulate her thoughts. It is the school’s duty to articulate its practices to parents. 2. [intransitive, transitive] to speak, pronounce or play something in a clear way He was too drunk to articulate properly. articulate something Every note was carefully articulated. She spoke slowly, articulating each word clearly. 3. [intransitive] articulate (with something) (formal) to be related to something so that together the two parts form a whole These courses are designed to articulate with university degrees. 4. [intransitive, transitive] (specialist) to be joined to something else by a joint, so that movement is possible; to join something in this way articulate (with something) bones that articulate with others articulate something a robot with articulated limbs

Answer 88

1. [uncountable] pictures and photographs prepared for books, magazines, etc. Can you let me have the finished artwork for the poster by Friday? 2. [countable, uncountable] a work of art, especially one in a museum; works of art as a group 30 original artworks have gone missing from the museum. a collection of artwork from tribal cultures

Answer 89

1. [uncountable] the grey or black powder that is left after something, especially tobacco, wood or coal, has burnt cigarette ash black volcanic ash Ash from the volcano fell over a wide area. She flicked ash out of the window carelessly. 2. ashes [plural] what is left after something has been destroyed by burning The town was reduced to ashes in the fighting. the glowing ashes of the campfire The fire had died to cold ashes. (figurative) The party had risen, like a phoenix, from the ashes of electoral disaster. She had seen all her dreams turn to ashes. 3. ashes [plural] the powder that is left after a dead person’s body has been cremated (= burned) She wanted her ashes to be scattered at sea. 4. [countable, uncountable] (also ash tree) a forest tree with grey bark 5. [uncountable] the hard pale wood of the ash tree 6. (specialist) the letter æ, used in Old English, and as a phonetic symbol to represent the vowel sound in cat

Answer 90

1. [countable, usually plural, uncountable] a strong desire to have or do something I didn't realize you had political aspirations. aspiration to do something He has never had any aspiration to earn a lot of money. aspiration for something What changes are needed to meet women's aspirations for employment? 2. [uncountable] (phonetics) the action of pronouncing a word with a breath that can be heard, as in the /h/ sound in house in English

Answer 91

1. to have a strong desire to achieve or to become something aspire (to something) She aspired to a scientific career. aspire to be/do something He aspired to be their next leader.

Answer 92

1. the murder of an important or famous person, especially for political reasons The president survived a number of assassination attempts. the assassination of John F. Kennedy

Answer 93

1. [uncountable, countable] the crime of attacking somebody physically Both men were charged with assault. sexual assaults assault on/upon somebody A significant number of indecent assaults on women go unreported. 2. countable] assault (on/upon/against somebody/something) (by an army, etc.) the act of attacking a building, an area, etc. in order to take control of it SYNONYM attack An assault on the capital was launched in the early hours of the morning. 3. countable] assault (on/upon something) the act of trying to achieve something that is difficult or dangerous The government has mounted a new assault on unemployment. a two-year legal assault on alleged tax fraud Three people died during an assault on the mountain (= while trying to climb it). 4. [countable] an act of criticizing somebody/something severely SYNONYM attack The suggested closures came under assault from all parties. assault on/upon/against somebody/something The paper's assault on the president was totally unjustified. 5. countable, uncountable] (law) an act that threatens to harm somebody physically, whether or not actual harm is done

Answer 94

1. [intransitive, transitive] to come together as a group; to bring people or things together as a group All the students were asked to assemble in the main hall. She then addressed the assembled company (= all the people there). assemble something to assemble evidence/data The manager has assembled a world-class team. He tried to assemble his thoughts. 2. [transitive] assemble something to fit together all the separate parts of something, for example a piece of furniture The shelves are easy to assemble.

Answer 95

1. (also Assembly) [countable] a group of people who have been elected to meet together regularly and make decisions or laws for a particular region or country state/legislative/federal/local assemblies Power has been handed over to provincial and regional assemblies. The national assembly has voted to adopt the budget. the California Assembly the UN General Assembly assembly elections an elected assembly 2. [uncountable, countable] the meeting together of a group of people for a particular purpose; a group of people who meet together for a particular purpose They were fighting for freedom of speech and freedom of assembly. He was to address a public assembly on the issue. an assembly point (= a place where people have been asked to meet) 3. [countable, uncountable] a meeting of the teachers and students in a school, usually at the start of the day, to give information, discuss school events or say prayers together The deputy head was taking (= leading) school assembly that day. 4. [uncountable] the process of putting together the parts of something such as a vehicle or piece of furniture Putting the bookcase together should be a simple assembly job. a car assembly plant the correct assembly of the parts

Answer 96

1. to state clearly and definitely that something is true assert that… She continued to assert that she was innocent. The report asserts confidently that the industry will grow. assert something She continued to assert her innocence. The German Chancellor was anxious to assert her government's commitment to European unity. + speech ‘That is wrong,’ he asserted. it is asserted that… It is commonly asserted that older people prefer to receive care from family members. 2. assert yourself to behave in a confident and determined way so that other people pay attention to your opinions You’re too timid—you must try to assert yourself more. 3. assert something to make other people recognize your right or authority to do something, by behaving in a determined and confident way to assert your independence/rights I was determined to assert my authority from the beginning. 4. assert itself to start to have an effect Good sense asserted itself.

Answer 97

1. [countable] a statement saying that you strongly believe something to be true SYNONYM claim He was correct in his assertion that the minister had been lying. Do you have any evidence to support your assertions? 2. [uncountable, countable] the act of stating, using or claiming something strongly the assertion of his authority The demonstration was an assertion of the right to peaceful protest.

Answer 98

1. a person or thing that is valuable or useful to somebody/something In his job, patience is an invaluable asset. Being able to speak a foreign language is a major asset. I’m not sure if his forcefulness is an asset or a liability. asset to somebody/something She'll be an asset to the team. 2. [usually plural] a thing of value, especially property, that a person or company owns, which can be used or sold to pay debts the net asset value of the company Her assets include shares in the company and a house in France. asset sales/management income from fixed asset investments financial/capital assets to freeze a country’s assets

Answer 99

1. to give somebody something that they can use, or some work or responsibility assign something (to somebody) The teacher assigned a different task to each of the children. The two large classrooms have been assigned to us. assign somebody something We have been assigned the two large classrooms. The teacher assigned each of the children a different task. 2. to provide a person for a particular task or position assign somebody (to something/as something) They've assigned their best man to the job. Two senior officers have been assigned to the case. assign somebody to do something British forces have been assigned to help with peacekeeping. 3. [usually passive] to send a person to work under the authority of somebody or in a particular group be assigned to somebody/something I was assigned to B platoon. He was assigned to the Royal Canadian Navy in 1975. 4. to say that something has a particular value or function, or happens at a particular time or place assign something to something Assign a different colour to each different type of information. assign something sth The painting cannot be assigned an exact date. 5. assign something to somebody (law) to say that your property or rights now belong to somebody else The agreement assigns copyright to the publisher. She has assigned the lease to her daughter.

Answer 100

1. help or support technical/economic/military assistance financial assistance for people on low incomes Can I be of any assistance? Despite his cries, no one came to his assistance. The other passengers went to her assistance. with the assistance of somebody/something He can only walk with the assistance of crutches. assistance with something She offered me practical assistance with my research. assistance in doing something/to do something The company provides advice and assistance in finding work.

Answer 101

1. [countable] a belief or feeling that something is true or that something will happen, although there is no proof an underlying/implicit assumption We need to challenge some of the basic assumptions of Western philosophy. We are working on the assumption that everyone invited will turn up. It was impossible to make assumptions about people's reactions. His actions were based on a false assumption. She arrived at college with a whole set of assumptions inherited from her family. 2. [countable, uncountable] assumption of something (formal) the act of taking or beginning to have power or responsibility their assumption of power/control the assumption of responsibility by the government for the disaster

Answer 102

1. [countable] a statement that something will certainly be true or will certainly happen, particularly when there has been doubt about it SYNONYM guarantee, promise They called for assurances that the government is committed to its education policy. Unemployment seems to be rising, despite repeated assurances to the contrary. 2. (also self-assurance) [uncountable] belief in your own abilities or strengths SYNONYM confidence There was an air of easy assurance about him. It was good to see some of her old assurance coming back.

Answer 103

1. to tell somebody that something is definitely true or is definitely going to happen, especially when they have doubts about it assure somebody (that)… You think I did it deliberately, but I assure you (that) I did not. Let me assure you that I will try to help you. We were assured that everything possible was being done. She's perfectly safe, I can assure you. assure somebody (of something) We assured him of our support. I won’t let you down, I can assure you of that. assure somebody + speech ‘He'll come back,’ Susan assured her. 2. formal) to make yourself certain about something assure yourself of something He assured himself of her safety. assure yourself that… She assured herself that the letter was still in the drawer. 3. to make something certain to happen SYNONYM guarantee assure something Victory would assure a place in the finals. assure somebody something Victory would assure them a place in the finals. This achievement has assured her a place in the history books.

Answer 104

1. very surprising; difficult to believe SYNONYM amazing She ran 100m in an astonishing 10.6 seconds. I find it absolutely astonishing that you didn't like it.

Answer 105

1. (also formal political asylum) [uncountable] protection that a government gives to people who have left their own country, usually because they were in danger for political reasons to seek/apply for/be granted asylum There was a nationwide debate on whether the asylum laws should be changed. 2. [countable] (old use) a hospital where people who were mentally ill could be cared for, often for a long time

Answer 106

1. physically strong, fit and active an athletic figure/build a tall, slim athletic girl

Answer 107

1. a cruel and violent act, especially in a war In the war, both sides committed atrocities.

Answer 108

1. countable] (computing) a document that you send to somebody using email No attachment was included. 2. [uncountable, countable] the act of joining one thing to another; a thing that joins two things together All cars have points for the attachment of safety restraints. attachment of something to something They discussed the attachment of new conditions to the peace plans. attachment to something They had to check the strength of the seat attachments to the floor of the plane. 3. [countable, uncountable] attachment (to somebody) a feeling of love for somebody/something a child’s strong attachment to its parents Prisoners can develop attachments to their guards. 4. [countable, uncountable] attachment (to something) belief in and support for an idea or a set of values the popular attachment to democratic government 5. [countable] a tool that you can fix onto a machine, to make it do another job an electric drill with a range of different attachments 6. [countable, uncountable] (British English) a short time spent working with an organization such as a hospital, school or part of the armed forces a 4-month training attachment on attachment (to something) She's on attachment to the local hospital.

Answer 109

1. attain something to succeed in getting something, usually after a lot of effort Most of our students attained five ‘A’ grades in their exams. We only consider applicants who have attained a high level of academic achievement. attain (a) degree/standard/level/proficiency/mastery 2. attain something to reach a particular age, level or condition The cheetah can attain speeds of up to 97 kph.

Answer 110

1. [uncountable, countable] the act of being present at a place, for example at school Attendance at these lectures is not compulsory. Teachers must keep a record of students' attendances. 2. [countable, uncountable] the number of people present at an organized event high/low/falling/poor attendances There was an attendance of 42 at the meeting. Cinema attendances have risen again recently.

Answer 111

1. attribute something to something to say or believe that something is the result of a particular thing She attributes her success to hard work and a little luck. The power failure was attributed to the recent storms and high winds. 2. attribute something to somebody to say or believe that somebody is responsible for doing something, especially for saying, writing or painting something This play is usually attributed to Shakespeare. a quote that has often been falsely attributed to George Patton 3. to regard a quality or feature as belonging to somebody/something attribute something The committee refused to attribute blame without further information. attribute something to somebody/something Ancient peoples attributed magical properties to the stones. The goals commonly attributed to management are status, power, salary and security.

Answer 112

1. a public sale in which things are sold to the person who offers the most money for them an auction of paintings at auction A classic Rolls-Royce fetched (= was sold for) £25 000 at auction. up for auction The house is up for auction (= will be sold at an auction). an internet auction site

Answer 113

1. connected with sound that is recorded audio and video recordings/files/clips The audio quality was poor.

Answer 114

1. an official examination of business and financial records to see that they are true and correct an annual audit a tax audit preparing the accounts for audit 2. an official examination of the quality or standard of something an environmental audit

Answer 115

1. known to be real and what somebody claims it is and not a copy I don't know if the painting is authentic. 2. true and accurate an authentic account of life in the desert the authentic voice of young black Americans 3. made to be exactly the same as the original an authentic model of the ancient town Take a trip on an authentic Spanish galleon to the famous Papagayo beach.

Answer 116

1. to give official permission for something, or for somebody to do something authorize something I can authorize payments up to £5 000. authorize somebody to do something I have authorized him to act for me while I am away. The soldiers were authorized to shoot at will.

Answer 117

1. a car the auto industry

Answer 118

1. the freedom for a country, a region or an organization to govern itself independently SYNONYM independence a campaign in Wales for greater autonomy 2. the ability to act and make decisions without being controlled by anyone else giving individuals greater autonomy in their own lives

Answer 119

1. the season of the year between summer and winter, when leaves change colour and the weather becomes colder in the autumn of something in the autumn of 2010 (figurative) He is in the autumn of his career. in early/late autumn the autumn term (= for example at a school or college in Britain) autumn leaves/colours It's been a very mild autumn this year. a crisp/chilly/wet/cool autumn their autumn collection of dresses (= designed to be worn in autumn) Demand always rises during the autumn and winter months.

Answer 120

1. the fact that something is possible to get, buy or find the availability of cheap flights (British English) This offer is subject to availability. 2. the fact that somebody is free to see or talk to people Check her availability before you schedule the meeting.

Answer 121

1. await somebody/something to wait for somebody/something He is in custody awaiting trial. Her latest novel is eagerly awaited. 2. await somebody to be going to happen to somebody A warm welcome awaits all our guests. Who knows what dangers may await us?

Answer 122

1. [uncountable, singular] knowing something; knowing that something exists and is important awareness of something an awareness of the importance of eating a healthy diet There was an almost complete lack of awareness of the issues involved. to raise/heighten/increase public awareness of something a greater/a growing/an increasing awareness of something a marketing campaign to increase brand awareness awareness that… There seems to be a general awareness that this is not the solution. 2. [uncountable] interest in and concern about a particular situation or area of interest environmental awareness Energy Awareness Week the emergence of a new social awareness among young people awareness about something The group is trying to raise public awareness about homelessness.

Answer 123

1. making you feel embarrassed There was an awkward silence. I felt awkward because they obviously wanted to be alone. 2. difficult to deal with SYNONYM difficult Don't ask awkward questions. You've put me in an awkward position. an awkward customer (= a person who is difficult to deal with) Please don't be awkward about letting him come. It makes things awkward for everyone when you behave like that. 3. not convenient SYNONYM inconvenient Have I come at an awkward time? That's a bit awkward for me—could we make it earlier? 4. difficult or dangerous because of its shape or design This box is very awkward for one person to carry. This tool will reach into awkward corners, such as under kitchen units. 5. not moving in an easy way; not comfortable He tried to dance, but he was too clumsy and awkward. I must have slept in an awkward position—I'm aching all over.

Answer 124

1. everything that can be seen around an event or scene The mountains provided a dramatic backdrop for our picnic. 2. the general conditions in which an event takes place, which sometimes help to explain that event Her comments came against the backdrop of growing demand for vaccines. 3. a painted piece of cloth that is hung behind the stage in a theatre as part of the scenery She was an artist who designed backdrops for movies and stage plays. The photographer poses his subjects against painted backdrops.

Answer 125

1. [uncountable] help and support from somebody to do something; financial support for something SYNONYM support The police gave the proposals their full backing. They have won financial backing from the EU. 2. [uncountable, countable] material attached to the back of something in order to protect it or make it stronger Remove the backing paper from the adhesive tape. The fabric has a special backing for durability. 3. [uncountable, countable, usually singular] (especially in pop music) music that goes with the main singer or tune a backing group/singer/track

Answer 126

1. extra help or support that you can get if necessary The police had backup from the army. We can use him as a backup if one of the other players drops out. The hospital has a backup power supply. 2. (computing) a copy of a file, etc. that can be used if the original is lost or damaged Always make a backup of your work. a backup copy

Answer 127

1. a small piece of metal or plastic, with a design or words on it, that a person wears or carries to show that they belong to an organization, support something, have achieved something, have a particular rank, etc. She wore a badge saying ‘Vote for Coates’. All employees have to wear name badges. He pulled out a badge and said he was a cop. parking for disabled badge holders The police officer flashed his badge. 2. a symbol of a particular quality or status His gun was a badge of power for him. Her badge of office, a large gold key, hung around her neck. He saw his injuries as a badge of honour.

Answer 128

1. [intransitive] baulk (at something) to be unwilling to do something or become involved in something because it is difficult, dangerous, etc. Many parents may baulk at the idea of paying $100 for a pair of shoes. He baulked for a moment. ‘I can’t afford it,’ he finally admitted. 2. [intransitive] baulk (at something) (of a horse) to stop suddenly and refuse to jump a fence, etc. 3. [transitive, usually passive] (formal) to prevent somebody from getting something or doing something (be) baulked of something She looked like a lion baulked of its prey.

Answer 129

1. keeping or showing a balance so that different things or different parts of something exist in equal or correct amounts The programme presented a balanced view of the two sides of the conflict. a balanced diet (= one with the quantity and variety of food needed for good health) The report was accurate and well balanced.

Answer 130

1. [uncountable] a style of dancing that tells a dramatic story with music but no talking or singing She wants to be a ballet dancer. ballet shoes 2. [countable] a story or work of art performed by a group of ballet dancers ‘Swan Lake’ is one of the great classical ballets. 3. [countable + singular or plural verb] a group of dancers who work and perform ballet together members of the Royal Ballet

Answer 131

1. a small bag made of very thin rubber that becomes larger and rounder when you fill it with air or gas. Balloons are brightly coloured and used as decorations or toys. to blow up/burst/pop a balloon My balloon has burst! A thousand balloons were released to mark the event. They tied the balloons to the back of the car. helium balloons for the children's party 2. (also hot-air balloon) a large balloon made of strong material that is filled with hot air or gas to make it rise in the air, usually carrying a basket for passengers We went up in a balloon. She crossed the Atlantic in a hot-air balloon.

Answer 132

1. [uncountable, countable] the system of voting in writing and usually in secret; an occasion on which a vote is held The chairperson is chosen by secret ballot. The union cannot call a strike unless it holds a ballot of members. ballot for something a ballot for the Conservative leadership ballot on/over something a ballot over strike action a ballot on the new contracts 2. the ballot [singular] the total number of votes in an election She won 58.8% of the ballot.

Answer 133

1. the state of being bankrupt SYNONYM insolvency The company filed for bankruptcy (= asked to be officially bankrupt) in 2009. moral/political bankruptcy There could be further bankruptcies among small farmers.

Answer 134

1. a long piece of cloth with a message on it that is carried between two poles or hung in a public place to show support for something A huge banner over the street said ‘Welcome home’. Protesters carried a banner reading ‘Save our Wildlife’. 2. a title or advertisement across the top or bottom or down the side of a page on the internet They put up a website banner advising customers to order early. A banner saying ‘To be continued…’ appeared on the screen.

Answer 135

1. not covered by any clothes She likes to walk around in bare feet. They wore shabby clothes and their feet were bare. His bare legs were covered in wiry golden hairs. 2. (of trees or countryside) not covered with leaves; without plants or trees The winter sun filtered through the bare branches of the trees. a bare mountainside We looked out over a bare, open landscape, stripped of vegetation. 3. (of surfaces and objects) not covered with or protected by anything bare wooden floorboards Bare wires were sticking out of the cable. The walls were bare except for a clock. The only lighting was a bare bulb hanging from the ceiling. The walls have been stripped bare. 4. (of a room, cupboard, etc.) empty The fridge was completely bare. bare shelves bare of something The house was almost bare of furniture. 5. [only before noun] just enough; the most basic or simple The family was short of even the bare necessities of life. We only had the bare essentials in the way of equipment. He did the bare minimum of work but still passed the exam. She gave me only the bare facts of the case. It was the barest hint of a smile. Nothing more is known apart from the bare statement issued to the press.

Answer 136

1. in a way that is just possible but only with difficulty He could barely read and write. The music was barely audible. She was barely able to stand. We barely had time to catch the train. 2. in a way that almost does not happen or exist She barely acknowledged his presence. There was barely any smell. 3. just; certainly not more than (a particular amount, age, time, etc.) Barely 50% of the population voted. He was barely 20 years old and already running his own company. They arrived barely a minute later. 4. only a very short time before I had barely started speaking when he interrupted me.

Answer 137

1. a thing bought for less than the usual price I picked up a few good bargains in the sale. The car was a bargain at that price. bargain prices 2. an agreement between two or more people or groups, to do something for each other He and his partner had made a bargain to tell each other everything. I've done what I promised and I expect you to keep your side of the bargain (= do what you agreed in return). Finally the two sides struck a bargain (= reached an agreement). bargain with somebody I'll make a bargain with you. Her part of the bargain was to look after the car.

Answer 138

1. a large round container, usually made of wood or metal, with flat ends and, usually, curved sides a beer/wine barrel They filled the barrels with cider. The art of barrel-making is an ancient skill. 2. the contents of or the amount contained in a barrel; a unit of measurement in the oil industry equal to between 120 and 159 litres They got through two barrels of beer. Oil prices fell to $9 a barrel. Crude oil prices hit record highs of more than $70 a barrel. 3. the part of a gun like a tube through which the bullets are fired Tom found himself looking down the barrel of a gun. The barrel was aimed directly at me. He fired one barrel and then fired again.

Answer 139

1. a room or rooms in a building, partly or completely below the level of the ground Kitchen goods are sold in the basement. a basement flat/apartment She lives in a two-room basement flat.

Answer 140

1. a container for holding or carrying things. Baskets are made of long thin pieces of material that bends and twists easily, for example plastic, wire or wicker. a shopping basket a picnic basket a clothes/laundry basket (= in which dirty clothes are put before being washed) a wicker/wire basket a cat/dog basket (= in which a cat or dog sleeps or is carried around) 2. the amount contained in a basket a basket of fruit 3. (also cart, shopping cart both especially North American English) a facility on a website that records the items that you select to buy Click to drop items into your shopping basket. 82 per cent of shoppers have abandoned an online shopping basket in the last year. 4. the net and the metal ring it hangs from, high up at each end of a basketball court; a point that is scored by throwing the ball through this net to make/shoot a basket 5. (economics) a number of different goods or currencies the value of the rupee against a basket of currencies

Answer 141

1. [uncountable] the lowest tone or part in music, for instruments or voices He always plays his stereo with the bass turned right up. He sings bass. a pounding bass line 2. also bass guitar) [countable] an electric guitar that plays very low notes a bass player bass and drums Eilís Phillips on (= playing) bass 3. [countable] a man’s singing voice with a low range; a man with a bass voice He answered my question in a surprisingly deep bass. 4. [singular] a musical part that is written for a bass voice 5. (also double bass) [countable] the largest musical instrument in the violin family, which plays very low notes

Answer 142

1. a piece of wood with a handle, made in various shapes and sizes, and used for hitting the ball in games such as baseball, cricket and table tennis a baseball/cricket bat 2. an animal like a mouse with wings that flies and feeds at night (= it is nocturnal). There are many types of bat.

Answer 143

1. a place where a battle is being fought or has been fought heavy casualties on the battlefield He was wounded on the battlefield. 2. a situation in which people are opposed to each other; a subject that people feel strongly about and argue about Arkansas is among the key electoral battlefields. Education policy is an ideological battlefield.

Answer 144

1. [countable] a part of the sea, or of a large lake, partly surrounded by a wide curve of the land the Bay of Bengal Hudson Bay a magnificent view across the bay apartments overlooking the bay 2. [countable] a marked section of ground either inside or outside a building, for example for a vehicle to park in, for storing things, etc. a parking/loading bay Put the equipment in No 3 bay. 3. [countable] a curved area of a room or building that sticks out from the rest of the building 4. [countable] a horse of a dark brown colour He was riding a big bay. 5. [countable] a deep noise, especially the noise made by dogs when hunting 6. (also bay tree) [countable] a small tree with dark green leaves with a sweet smell that are used in cooking 7. [uncountable] the leaves of the bay tree, used in cooking as a herb

Answer 145

1. a line of light, electromagnetic waves or particles narrow beams of light/sunlight the beam of a torch/flashlight a laser/electron beam (British English) The car's headlights were on full beam (= shining as brightly as possible and not directed downwards). 2. a long piece of wood, metal, etc. used to support weight, especially as part of the roof in a building The cottage had exposed oak beams. 3. especially British English) (North American English usually balance beam) a wooden bar that is used in the sport of gymnastics for people to move and balance on The gymnast performed a somersault on the beam. 4. a wide and happy smile a beam of satisfaction

Answer 146

1. old-fashioned or formal) an animal, especially one that is large or dangerous, or one that is unusual wild/savage/ferocious beasts mythical beasts such as unicorns and dragons 2. a person who is cruel and whose behaviour shows a lack of control SYNONYM animal The beast in her wanted to destroy his house. 3. (informal, often humorous) an unpleasant person or thing The maths exam was a real beast. 4. (informal) a thing of a particular kind SYNONYM animal His new guitar is a very expensive beast.

Answer 147

1. in behalf of somebody | in somebody’s behalf (US English) in order to help somebody He began a petition in behalf of the farmers. 2. on behalf of somebody | on somebody’s behalf as the representative of somebody or instead of them On behalf of the department I would like to thank you all. Mr Knight cannot be here, so his wife will accept the prize on his behalf. 3. in order to help somebody They campaigned on behalf of asylum seekers. 4. because of somebody; for somebody Don't worry on my behalf.

Answer 148

1. connected with behaviour behavioural problems/difficulties 2. connected with the scientific study of human and animal behaviour behavioural science/research

Answer 149

1.[only before noun] loved very much in memory of our dearly beloved son, John They were glad to be back in their beloved Ireland. 2. beloved by/of somebody loved very much by somebody; very popular with somebody the deep purple flowers so beloved by artists She was beloved by all who knew her. She ran one of the little tea rooms so beloved of Londoners at the turn of the century.

Answer 150

1. [countable] a long seat for two or more people, usually made of wood a park bench 2. the bench [singular] (law) a judge in court or the seat where he/she sits; the position of being a judge or magistrate His lawyer turned to address the bench. She has recently been appointed to the bench. 3. [countable, usually plural] (in the British parliament) a seat where a particular group of politicians sit There was cheering from the Opposition benches. 4. the bench [singular] (sport) the seats where players sit when they are not playing in the game the substitutes’ bench He started the game on the bench but finished as the team’s top scorer. He's sick of spending every game on the bench. 5. (also workbench) [countable] a long heavy table used for doing practical jobs, working with tools, etc. a carpenter’s bench

Answer 151

1. something that can be measured and used as a standard that other things can be compared with Tests at the age of seven provide a benchmark against which the child's progress at school can be measured.

Answer 152

1. in or to a lower position than somebody/something; under somebody/something They found the body buried beneath a pile of leaves. The boat sank beneath the waves. 2. not good enough for somebody He considers such jobs beneath him. They thought she had married beneath her (= married a man of lower social status).

Answer 153

1. beneficial (to something/somebody) improving a situation; having a helpful or useful effect SYNONYM advantageous, favourable A good diet is beneficial to health. They finally came to a mutually beneficial agreement.

Answer 154

1. beneficiary (of something) a person who gains as a result of something Who will be the main beneficiary of the cuts in income tax? 2. beneficiary (of something) a person who receives money or property when somebody dies She was the sole beneficiary of her father’s will.

Answer 155

1. next to or at the side of somebody/something He sat beside her all night. a mill beside a stream 2. compared with somebody/something My painting looks childish beside yours. Idioms be beside the point to not be important or closely related to the main thing you are talking about Yes, I know it was an accident, but that's beside the point. They took my words out of context, but that’s beside the point. beside yourself (with something) unable to control yourself because of the strength of emotion you are feeling He was beside himself with rage when I told him what I had done. They were beside themselves with excitement.

Answer 156

1. n addition to somebody/something; apart from somebody/something We have lots of things in common besides music. Besides working as a doctor, he also writes novels in his spare time. I've got no family besides my parents. I’ve got plenty of other things to do besides talking to you.

Answer 157

1. to give information about somebody/something to an enemy betray somebody/something He was offered money to betray his colleagues. betray somebody/something to somebody For years they had been betraying state secrets to Russia. 2. betray somebody/something to hurt somebody who trusts you, especially by lying to or about them or telling their secrets to other people She felt betrayed when she found out the truth about him. She betrayed his trust over and over again. I have never known her to betray a confidence (= tell other people something that should be kept secret). 3. betray something to ignore your principles or beliefs in order to achieve something or gain an advantage for yourself He has been accused of betraying his former socialist ideals. 4. to tell somebody or make them aware of a piece of information, a feeling, etc., usually without meaning to SYNONYM give away betray something His voice betrayed the worry he was trying to hide. betray yourself She was terrified of saying something that would make her betray herself (= show her feelings or who she was).

Answer 158

1. any type of drink except water laws governing the sale of alcoholic beverages Studies on the consumption of various alcoholic beverages have been conducted.

Answer 159

1. [uncountable, countable, usually singular] a strong feeling in favour of or against one group of people, or one side in an argument, often not based on fair judgement accusations of political bias in news programmes (= that reports are unfair and show favour to one political party) Employers must consider all candidates impartially and without bias. Some institutions still have a strong bias against women. The article examines gender bias in our schools. 2. [countable, usually singular] an interest in one thing more than others; a special ability The course has a strong practical bias. Leila had a marked scientific bias. In British universities there was a bias towards pure science. 3. [uncountable, countable] the fact that the results of research or an experiment are not accurate because a particular factor has not been considered when collecting the information If a response rate is low, the risk of bias in the findings will be greater. 4. [uncountable, singular] the bias of a piece of cloth is an edge cut diagonally across the threads The skirt is cut on the bias. a bias strip

Answer 160

1. an offer by a person or a company to pay a particular amount of money for something bid for something A German firm launched a takeover bid for the company. At the auction (= a public sale where things are sold to the person who offers the most), the highest bid for the picture was £200. bid on something (North American English also) the highest bid on the picture Any more bids? 2. bid (for something) (North American English also) bid (on something) an offer to do work or provide a service for a particular price, in competition with other companies, etc. SYNONYM tender The company submitted a bid for the contract to clean the hospital. 3. (used especially in newspapers) an effort to do something or to obtain something bid for something a bid for power bid to do something a desperate bid to escape from his attackers 4. (in some card games) a statement of the number of points a player thinks they will win

Answer 161

1. [transitive] (formal) to tie somebody/something with rope, string, etc. so that they/it cannot move or are held together strongly bind somebody/something to something She was bound to a chair. bind somebody/something together They bound his hands together. bind somebody/something He was left bound and gagged (= tied up and with a piece of cloth tied over his mouth). 2. [transitive] bind something (up) (formal) to tie a long thin piece of cloth around something She bound up his wounds. 3. [transitive] to make people, organizations, etc. feel united so that they live or work together more happily or effectively bind A (and B) (together) Organizations such as schools and clubs bind a community together. bind A to B She thought that having his child would bind him to her forever. 4. [transitive, usually passive] to force somebody to do something by making them promise to do it or by making it their duty to do it bind somebody (to something) He had been bound to secrecy (= made to promise not to tell people about something). bind somebody to do something The agreement binds her to repay the debt within six months. 5. [intransitive, transitive] to stick together or to make things stick together in a solid mass bind (together) Add an egg yolk to make the mixture bind. bind something (together) Add an egg yolk to bind the mixture together. 6. [transitive, usually passive] bind something (in something) to fasten the pages of a book together and put them inside a cover two volumes bound in leather 7. [transitive, often passive] bind something (with something) to sew a piece of material to the edge of something to decorate it or to make it stronger The blankets were bound with satin.

Answer 162

1. the story of a person’s life written by somebody else; this type of writing Boswell’s biography of Johnson a biography by Antonia Fraser The book gives potted biographies of all the major painters.

Answer 163

1. connected with the science of biology the biological sciences 2. connected with the processes that take place within living things the biological effects of radiation the biological control of pests (= using living organisms to destroy them, not chemicals) 3. (of a member of a person's family) related by blood a child’s biological parents (= natural parents, not the people who adopted him/her) 4. (of washing powder, etc.) using enzymes (= chemical substances that are found in plants and animals) to get clothes, etc. clean biological and non-biological powders

Answer 164

1. a senior priest in charge of the work of the Church in a city or district the Bishop of Oxford Bishop Pritchard He was appointed Bishop of Ely. He’s the diocesan bishop and he has three suffragan bishops to help him. 2. a piece used in the game of chess that is like a bishop’s hat in shape and can move any number of squares in a diagonal line

Answer 165

1. very strange or unusual SYNONYM weird a bizarre situation/incident/story bizarre behaviour

Answer 166

1. the flat part of a knife, tool or machine, which has a sharp edge or edges for cutting The machine comes with a plastic guard over the blade to protect the operator. 2. one of the flat parts that turn around in an engine or on a helicopter the blades of a propeller rotor blades on a helicopter 3. the flat wide part of an oar (= one of the long straight pieces of wood that are used to row a boat) that goes in the water 4. a single flat leaf of grass Not a blade of grass stirred. 5. the flat metal part on the bottom of an ice skate

Answer 167

1. a large cover, often made of wool, used especially on beds to keep people warm It’s cold tonight—can I have another blanket? The baby was wrapped in a blanket. 2. [usually singular] blanket of something a thick layer or mass of something a blanket of fog/snow/cloud (figurative) The trial was conducted under a blanket of secrecy.

Answer 168

1. [countable] an explosion or a powerful movement of air caused by an explosion a bomb blast 27 schoolchildren were injured in the blast. The blast ripped through the building. 2. [countable] a sudden strong movement of air A blast of hot air hit us as we stepped off the plane. the wind’s icy blasts 3. [countable] a sudden loud noise, especially one made by a musical instrument that you blow, or by a whistle or a car horn three short blasts on the ship’s siren The driver opened the door letting out a blast of Bob Marley. He gave a short blast on his trumpet. 4. [countable] (used especially in newspapers) strong criticism Blast for prison governors in judge’s report. 5. [singular] (informal) a very happy experience that is a lot of fun The party was a blast. We had a blast at the party. 6. [countable] (North American English, informal) a piece of advertising or information that is sent to a large number of people at the same time by email They sent out email blasts and posted information on all their websites.

Answer 169

1. [intransitive] to lose blood, especially from a wound or an injury My finger's bleeding. She slowly bled to death. He was bleeding from a gash on his head. The small blood vessels in the nose bleed easily. 2. [transitive] bleed somebody (in the past) to take blood from somebody as a way of treating disease 3. [transitive] bleed somebody (for something) (informal) to force somebody to pay a lot of money over a period of time The company seems intent on bleeding us for every penny we have. 4. [transitive] bleed something to remove air or liquid from something so that it works correctly 5. [intransitive] bleed (into something) to spread from one area of something to another area Keep the paint fairly dry so that the colours don't bleed into each other.

Answer 170

1. [transitive] to mix two or more substances together blend A with B Blend the flour with the milk to make a smooth paste. blend A and B (together) Blend together the eggs, sugar and flour. 2. [intransitive] to form a mixture with something blend with something Oil does not blend with water. blend (together) Oil and water do not blend. 3. [intransitive, transitive] to combine with something in an attractive or effective way; to combine something in this way blend (something) (together) The old and new buildings blend together perfectly. blend something (and/with something) Their music blends traditional and modern styles. 4. [transitive, usually passive] blend something to produce something by mixing different types together blended whisky/tea

Answer 171

1. bless somebody/something to ask God to protect somebody/something They brought the children to Jesus and he blessed them. God bless you! 2. bless something to make something holy by saying a prayer over it The priest blessed the bread and wine. 3. bless somebody/something (formal) to call God holy; to praise God We bless your holy name, O Lord. 4. bless somebody/something (old-fashioned, informal) used to express surprise Bless my soul! Here comes Bill! ‘Where's Joe?’ ‘I'm blessed if I know!’ (= I don't know)

Answer 172

1. [usually singular] God’s help and protection, or a prayer asking for this to pray for God’s blessing The bishop said the blessing. 2. [usually singular] approval of or permission for something The government gave its blessing to the new plans. He went with his parents' blessing. 3. something that is good or helpful Lack of traffic is one of the blessings of country life. It's a blessing that nobody was in the house at the time. Her looks turned out to be more of a curse than a blessing.

Answer 173

1. [intransitive, transitive] to send out air from the mouth + adv./prep. You're not blowing hard enough! The policeman asked me to blow into the breathalyser. blow something + adv./prep. He drew on his cigarette and blew out a stream of smoke. 2. [intransitive, transitive] when the wind or a current of air blows, it is moving; when it blows, the wind is blowing The birds were singing and a warm wind was blowing. + adv./prep. A cold wind blew from the east. It was blowing hard. It was blowing a gale (= there was a strong wind). 3. [intransitive, transitive] to be moved by the wind, somebody’s breath, etc.; to move something in this way + adv./prep. My hat blew off. + adj. The door blew open. blow somebody/something + adv./prep. I was almost blown over by the wind. She blew the dust off the book. The ship was blown onto the rocks. The bomb blast blew two passers-by across the street. blow something + adj. The wind blew the door shut. 4. [transitive, intransitive] if you blow a whistle, musical instrument, etc. or if a whistle, etc. blows, you produce a sound by blowing into the whistle, etc. the sound of trumpets blowing blow something The referee blew his whistle. 5. transitive] blow your nose to clear your nose by blowing strongly through it into a tissue or handkerchief She grabbed a tissue and loudly blew her nose. 6. [transitive] blow (somebody) a kiss to kiss your hand and then pretend to blow the kiss towards somebody 7. [transitive] blow something to make or shape something by blowing to blow smoke rings to blow bubbles (= for example, by blowing onto a thin layer of water mixed with soap) to blow glass (= to send a current of air into melted glass to shape it) 8. [intransitive, transitive] blow (something) if a fuse blows or you blow a fuse, the electricity stops flowing suddenly because the fuse (= a thin wire) has melted because the current was too strong 9. [intransitive, transitive] to break open or apart, especially because of pressure from inside; to make a tyre break in this way The car spun out of control when a tyre blew. The truck blew a tyre and lurched off the road. 10.[transitive] blow something to break something open with explosives The safe had been blown by the thieves. 11. [transitive] blow something (informal) to make known something that was secret One mistake could blow your cover (= make your real name, job, intentions, etc. known). We’re going to blow his operation wide open. 12. [transitive] blow something (on something) (informal) to spend or waste a lot of money on something He inherited over a million dollars and blew it all on drink and gambling. 13. [transitive] blow something (informal) to waste an opportunity She blew her chances by arriving late for the interview. You had your chance and you blew it. 14. transitive] In this meaning blowed is used for the past participle. blow somebody/something (British English, informal) used to show that you are annoyed, surprised or do not care about something Blow it! We've missed the bus. Well, blow me down! I never thought I'd see you again. I'm blowed if I'm going to (= I certainly will not) let him treat you like that. Let's take a taxi and blow (= never mind) the expense. 15. [transitive, intransitive] blow (something) (North American English, informal) to leave a place suddenly Let's blow this joint.

Answer 174

1. [intransitive, transitive] to talk in a way that shows you are too proud of something that you have or can do I don't want to boast, but I can actually speak six languages. boast about something She is always boasting about how wonderful her children are. boast of something He openly boasted of his skill as a burglar. boast that… Sam boasted that she could beat anyone at poker. Hay's booksellers justifiably boast that they cater for all tastes. + speech ‘I won!’ she boasted. 2. transitive] (not used in the progressive tenses) boast something to have something that is impressive The hotel also boasts two swimming pools and a golf course. Rhodes boasts 300 days of sunshine a year. This is a region which proudly boasts its own distinct culture.

Answer 175

1. (of people or behaviour) brave and confident; not afraid to say what you feel or to take risks It was a bold move on their part to open a business in France. Few people have been bold enough to criticize the manager. a bold and fearless warrior 2. (of printed words or letters) in a thick, dark type Highlight the important words in bold type. bold lettering 3. (of shape, colour, lines, etc.) that can be easily seen; having a strong clear appearance the bold outline of a mountain against the sky She paints with bold strokes of the brush.

Answer 176

1. an occasion when a bomb is dropped or left somewhere; the act of doing this recent bombings in major cities The neighbourhood was badly damaged by enemy bombing.

Answer 177

1. an extra amount of money that is added to a payment, especially to somebody’s wages or salary as a reward a £100 Christmas bonus productivity bonuses the row over bankers' bonuses What is actually paid will depend on the bonus payments made at the end of the policy. 2. [usually singular] anything pleasant that is extra and more or better than you were expecting Being able to walk to work is an added bonus of the new job. As a bonus, club members can get free tickets for all the family. One of the great bonuses of retirement is having time to spare.

Answer 178

1. [countable, uncountable] (especially British English) an arrangement that you make in advance to buy a ticket to travel somewhere, go to the theatre, etc. a booking form/hall/clerk Can I make a booking for Friday? Early booking is recommended. No advance booking is necessary. We can't take any more bookings. 2. [countable] an arrangement for somebody to perform at a theatre, in a concert, etc.

Answer 179

1. a sudden increase in trade and economic activity; a period of wealth and success Living standards improved rapidly during the post-war boom. boom in something a boom in car sales a boom year (for trade, exports, etc.) a property/housing boom 2. [usually singular] a period when something such as a sport or a type of music suddenly becomes very popular and successful The only way to satisfy the golf boom was to build more courses. 3. a long pole that the bottom of a sail is attached to and that you move to change the position of the sail 4. [usually singular] a loud deep sound the distant boom of the guns 5. a floating barrier that is placed across a river or the entrance to a harbour to prevent ships or other objects from coming in or going out 6. a long pole that carries a microphone or other equipment

Answer 180

1. [intransitive, transitive] if something bounces or you bounce it, it moves quickly away from a surface it has just hit or you make it do this The ball bounced twice before he could reach it. bounce off something Short sound waves bounce off even small objects. The light bounced off the river and dazzled her. + adv./prep. The ball bounced high and she missed it. bounce something (against/on/off something) She bounced the ball against the wall. 2. [intransitive] bounce (up and down) (on something) (of a person) to jump up and down on something She bounced up and down excitedly on the bed. 3. [transitive] bounce somebody (up and down) (on something) to move a child up and down while they are sitting on your knee in order to entertain them I bounced the baby on my knee while Pete did the dishes. 4. [intransitive, transitive] bounce (something) (up and down) to move up and down; to move something up and down Her hair bounced as she walked. 5. [intransitive] + adv./prep. to move up and down in a particular direction The bus bounced down the hill. The car bounced its way along the dirt road. 6. [intransitive] + adv./prep. (of a person) to move somewhere in a lively and cheerful way He bounced across the room to greet them. 7. [intransitive, transitive] bounce (something) (informal) if a cheque bounces, or a bank bounces it, the bank refuses to accept it because there is not enough money in the bank account to pay it 8. [transitive] bounce ideas (off somebody)/(around) to tell somebody your ideas in order to find out what they think about them He bounced ideas off colleagues everywhere he went. 9. [intransitive, transitive] bounce (something) (back) if an email bounces or the system bounces it, it returns to the person who sent it because the system cannot deliver it I tried to send her an email but it bounced. The system automatically bounces emails which contain attachments. 10. [transitive] bounce somebody (from something) (especially North American English, informal) to force somebody to leave a job, team, place, etc. He was soon bounced from the post. 11. [intransitive] (informal) to leave a place or group of people All right, cool, we'll bounce.

Answer 181

1. bound to do/be something certain or likely to happen, or to do or be something There are bound to be changes when the new system is introduced. It's bound to be sunny again tomorrow. You've done so much work—you're bound to pass the exam. It was bound to happen sooner or later (= we should have expected it). These problems were almost bound to arise. You're bound to be nervous the first time (= it's easy to understand). 2. forced to do something by law, duty or a particular situation bound by something We are not bound by the decision. You are bound by the contract to pay before the end of the month. bound (by something) to do something (formal) I am bound to say I disagree with you on this point. They are legally bound to appear in court. 3. (in compounds) prevented from going somewhere or from working normally by the conditions mentioned Strike-bound travellers face long delays. fogbound airports 4. (also in compounds) travelling, or ready to travel, in a particular direction or to a particular place homeward bound (= going home) Paris-bound northbound/southbound/eastbound/westbound bound for… a plane bound for Dublin tourists who are bound for Europe college-bound high school students

Answer 182

1. a real or imagined line that marks the limits or edges of something and separates it from other things or places; a dividing line After the war the national boundaries were redrawn. (British English) county boundaries boundary changes/disputes The fence marks the boundary between my property and hers. Scientists continue to push back the boundaries of human knowledge. It is up to the teacher to set the boundary between acceptable and unacceptable behaviour. He could just see her beyond the boundary wall of the cemetery. to extend the boundaries of high art to include some popular music 2. (in cricket) a hit of the ball that crosses the boundary of the playing area and scores extra points He hit 13 boundaries from 183 balls.

Answer 183

1. [intransitive] to move your head or the top half of your body forwards and downwards as a sign of respect or to say hello or goodbye bow (to/before somebody/something) He bowed low to the assembled crowd. bow down (to/before somebody/something) The people all bowed down before the emperor. 2. [transitive] bow your head to move your head forwards and downwards She bowed her head in shame. They stood in silence with their heads bowed. 3. [intransitive, transitive] to bend or make something bend (+ adv./prep) The pines bowed in the wind. bow something (+ adv./prep) Their backs were bowed under the weight of their packs.

Answer 184

1. [countable, uncountable] breach of something a failure to do something that must be done by law a breach of contract/copyright/warranty They are in breach of Article 119. (British English) (a) breach of the peace (= the crime of behaving in a noisy or violent way in public) Selling goods constituted a breach of regulation 10B. 2. [countable, uncountable] breach of something an action that breaks an agreement to behave in a particular way a breach of confidence/trust a breach of security (= when something that is normally protected is no longer secure) 3. [countable] a break in a relationship between people or countries The disagreement caused a serious breach in Franco-German relations. 4. [countable] an opening that is created during a military attack or by strong winds or seas They escaped through a breach in the wire fence. A breach in the mountain wall permits warm sea air to penetrate inland. The mortars blew a large breach in the castle walls.

Answer 185

1. [countable] an occasion when a vehicle or machine stops working a breakdown on the motorway a breakdown recovery service Most breakdown services give priority to women travelling alone. The national breakdown organizations are on hand to help motorists 24 hours a day. 2. [countable, uncountable] a failure of a relationship, discussion or system The only ground for divorce is the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. marriage breakdown There has obviously been a breakdown in communications between the two sides. The breakdown of the negotiations was not unexpected. the breakdown of law and order 3. [countable, usually singular] detailed information that you get by studying a set of figures First, let's look at a breakdown of the costs. Please provide us with a breakdown of expenditure by department. 4. [uncountable] (specialist) the process of a substance breaking into the parts of which it is made the breakdown of proteins in the digestive system 5. [countable] (also nervous breakdown (old-fashioned)) a period of serious mental illness in which somebody is unable to deal with normal life It all became too much and he had some sort of breakdown.

Answer 186

1. an important development that may lead to an agreement or achievement to make/achieve a breakthrough a significant breakthrough in negotiations a major breakthrough in cancer research

Answer 187

1. [intransitive] (of animals) to have sex and produce young Many animals breed only at certain times of the year. 2. [transitive, intransitive] to keep animals or plants in order to produce young ones for a particular purpose breed something (for/as something) The rabbits are bred for their long coats. Greyhounds were originally bred as hunting dogs. the first panda to be bred in captivity breed from something She's a lovely cat. Will you breed from her? 3. [transitive] breed something to be the cause of something Nothing breeds success like success. 4. [transitive, usually passive] breed something into somebody to educate somebody in a particular way as they are growing up Fear of failure was bred into him at an early age.

Answer 188

1. [countable, uncountable] baked clay used for building walls, houses and other buildings; an individual block of this The school is built of brick. a pile of bricks a brick wall 2. [countable] a plastic or wooden block, used as a toy for young children to build things with

Answer 189

1. for a short time He had spoken to Emma only briefly. She met John briefly on Friday night. 2. in few words Briefly, the argument is as follows… Let me tell you briefly what happened.

Answer 190

1. a way of connecting to the internet that allows you to receive information, including pictures, etc., very quickly and that is always active (so that the user does not have to connect each time) plans to provide rural areas with fast broadband 2. (specialist) signals that use a wide range of frequencies

Answer 191

1. a person whose job is presenting or talking on television or radio programmes She is a writer and broadcaster on environmental matters. 2. a company that sends out television or radio programmes the new Australian rugby broadcaster, Channel Ten

Answer 192

1. generally, without considering details Broadly speaking, I agree with you. broadly similar/comparable/equivalent/consistent 2. if you smile broadly, you smile with your mouth stretched very wide because you are very pleased or are enjoying something very much

Answer 193

1. (also web browser) a computer program that lets you look at or read documents on the World Wide Web What do you use as your default browser? 2. a person who looks through books, magazines, etc. or at things for sale, but may not seriously intend to buy anything There were one or two browsers in the bookstore.

Answer 194

1. violent and cruel a brutal attack/murder/rape/killing a brutal and repressive regime 2. direct and clear about something unpleasant; not thinking of people’s feelings With brutal honesty she told him she did not love him.

Answer 195

1. [countable] (informal) a US, Australian or New Zealand dollar; a South African rand; an Indian rupee They cost ten bucks. We're talking big bucks (= a lot of money) here. 2. [countable] a male deer, hare or rabbit (also called a buck rabbit) 3. [countable] (plural buck) (South African English) a deer, whether male or female a herd of buck 4. [countable] (old use, informal) a young man 5. the buck [singular] used in some expressions to refer to the responsibility or blame for something It was my decision. The buck stops here (= nobody else can be blamed). I was tempted to pass the buck (= make somebody else responsible).

Answer 196

1. (North American English also bud) (informal) a friend an old college buddy of mine Howard and Mick were drinking buddies. We were good buddies. I’d like you to meet an old college buddy of mine. 2. (also bud) (both North American English, informal) used to speak to a man you do not know ‘Where to, buddy?’ the driver asked. 3. (especially North American English) a partner who does an activity with you so that you can help each other The school uses a buddy system to pair newcomers with older students. Her driving buddy was in trouble.

Answer 197

1. a thing or person that reduces a shock or protects somebody/something against difficulties buffer against something Support from family and friends acts as a buffer against stress. buffer between A and B She often had to act as a buffer between father and son. The organization acts as a buffer between the management and the union. a buffer state (= a small country between two powerful states that helps keep peace between them) a buffer zone (= an area of land between two opposing armies or countries) Peacekeepers have been sent in to establish a buffer zone between the rival forces. 2. (computing) an area in a computer’s memory where data can be stored for a short time

Answer 198

1. [countable] (especially North American English) any small insect There's a bug crawling up your arm. 2. [countable] (informal) an illness that is usually fairly mild but spreads easily from person to person a flu bug There's a stomach bug going round (= people are catching it from each other). I picked up a bug in the office. He's off work with a flu bug. 3. (usually the… bug) [singular] (informal) an enthusiastic interest in something such as a sport or a hobby She's been bitten by the travel bug. She was never interested in fitness before but now she's been bitten by the bug. 4. [countable] a fault in a machine, especially in a computer system or program The software is full of bugs. My computer's really slow at the moment—it must be some kind of bug. 5. [countable] (informal) a small hidden device for listening to other people’s conversations They planted a bug in his hotel room.

Answer 199

1. [singular] the bulk (of something) the main part of something; most of something The bulk of the population lives in cities. The great bulk of the work has now been done. 2. [uncountable] the (large) size or quantity of something Despite its bulk and weight, the car is extremely fast. a bulk order (= one for a large number of similar items) bulk buying (= buying in large amounts, often at a reduced price) in bulk It's cheaper to buy in bulk. 3. [singular] the weight or shape of somebody/something large She heaved her bulk out of the chair. the looming dark bulk of the cathedral

Answer 200

1. a duty, responsibility, etc. that causes worry, difficulty or hard work to bear/carry/ease/reduce/share the burden the burden (of something) The main burden of caring for old people falls on the state. burden on somebody the heavy tax burden on working people a burden to somebody I don't want to become a burden to my children when I'm old. 2. (formal) a heavy load that is difficult to carry SEE ALSO beast of burden

Answer 201

1. [uncountable] (often disapproving) the system of official rules and ways of doing things that a government or an organization has, especially when these seem to be too complicated unnecessary/excessive bureaucracy We need to reduce paperwork and bureaucracy in the company. 2. [uncountable, countable] a system of government in which there are a large number of state officials who are not elected; a country with such a system the power of the state bureaucracy We are living in a modern bureaucracy.

Answer 202

1. the act or ceremony of burying a dead body a burial place/mound/site Her body was sent home for burial. His family insisted he should be given a proper burial. baptism, marriage and burial services

Answer 203

1. [intransitive, transitive] to break open or apart, especially because of pressure from inside; to make something break in this way That balloon will burst if you blow it up any more. The dam burst under the weight of water. Shells were bursting (= exploding) all around us. (figurative) He felt he would burst with anger and shame. burst apart There was a danger that the engine would burst apart. burst something Don't burst that balloon! The river burst its banks and flooded nearby towns. a burst pipe 2. [intransitive] + adv./prep. to go or move somewhere suddenly with great force; to come from somewhere suddenly He burst into the room without knocking. Suddenly the door flew open and Jo burst in. The sun burst through the clouds. The words burst from her in an angry rush. I felt as though my heart would burst out of my chest. 3. [intransitive] be bursting (with something) to be very full of something; to be very full and almost breaking open The roads are bursting with cars. to be bursting with ideas/enthusiasm/pride The hall was filled to bursting point. The hall was full to bursting. (informal) I’m bursting (for a pee)! (= I need to use the toilet right now).

Answer 204

1. a small room on a ship in which you live or sleep I lay in my cabin feeling miserably seasick. 2. one of the areas for passengers to sit in a plane the first-class cabin 3. a small house or shelter, usually made of wood a log cabin

Answer 205

1. (usually the Cabinet) [countable + singular or plural verb] a group of senior members of a government that is responsible for advising and deciding on government policy a cabinet meeting (British English) a cabinet minister (British English) the shadow Cabinet (= the most important members of the opposition party) 2. [countable] a piece of furniture with doors, drawers and/or shelves, that is used for storing or showing things kitchen cabinets a medicine cabinet The china was displayed in a glass cabinet.

Answer 206

1. [countable, uncountable] the act or process of using numbers to find out an amount Cathy did a rough calculation. By my calculation(s), we made a profit of £20 000 last year. Our guess was confirmed by calculation. 2. [countable, uncountable] the process of using your judgement to decide what the results would be of doing something Decisions are shaped by political calculations. 3. [uncountable] (disapproving) careful planning for yourself without caring about other people an act of cold calculation

Answer 207

1. a long straight passage dug in the ground and filled with water for boats and ships to travel along; a smaller passage used for carrying water to fields, crops, etc. the Panama/Suez Canal an irrigation canal 2. a tube inside the body through which liquid, food or air can pass

Answer 208

1. a round stick of wax with a piece of string (called a wick) through the middle that is lit to give light as it burns a flickering candle The room was lit by candles. to blow out/snuff out a candle

Answer 209

1. [uncountable] a strong heavy rough material used for making tents, sails, etc. and by artists for painting on tents made from heavy canvas 2. [countable] a piece of canvas used for painting on; a painting done on a piece of canvas, using oil paints a sale of the artist’s early canvases

Answer 210

1. the ability or qualities necessary to do something Age affects the range of a person's capabilities. capability to do something She has the capability to become a very fine actor. capability of doing something Animals in the zoo have lost the capability of catching food for themselves. capability for doing something his capability for making sensible decisions beyond/within the capabilities of something/somebody beyond/within the capabilities of current technology a company’s production capabilities 2. the power or weapons that a country has for war or for military action Britain’s nuclear/military capability

Answer 211

1. an economic system in which a country’s businesses and industry are controlled and run for profit by private owners rather than by the government the growth of industrial capitalism in the West

Answer 212

1. based on the principles of capitalism a capitalist society/system/economy

Answer 213

1. [uncountable] (symbol C) a chemical element. Carbon is found in all living things, existing in a pure state as diamond and graphite. carbon fibre iron with a high carbon content 2. [uncountable] used when referring to the gas carbon dioxide in terms of the effect it has on the earth’s climate in causing global warming carbon emissions/levels/taxes (British English) How do we move to a low-carbon economy? 3. [countable] (also carbon copy) a copy of a document, letter, etc. made with carbon paper 4. [countable] (also carbon copy) a person or thing that is very similar to somebody/something else 5. [countable] a piece of carbon paper

Answer 214

1. the goods carried in a ship, an aircraft or a motor vehicle The tanker began to spill its cargo of oil. a cargo ship

Answer 215

1. (also coach) (both British English) (North American English car) [countable] a separate section of a train for carrying passengers a railway carriage 2. [countable] a road vehicle, usually with four wheels, that is pulled by one or more horses and was used in the past to carry people a horse-drawn carriage 3. British English) (also handling North American English, British English) [uncountable] (formal) the act or cost of transporting goods from one place to another £16.95 including VAT and carriage Orders are despatched within 28 days but allow time for carriage. a contract for the carriage of goods 4. [countable] a moving part of a machine that supports or moves another part, for example on a typewriter a carriage return (= the act of starting a new line when typing) 5. [singular] (old-fashioned) the way in which somebody holds and moves their head and body SYNONYM bearing She showed her pedigree on her face and in her carriage.

Answer 216

1. [transitive, intransitive] to make objects, patterns, etc. by cutting away material from a piece of wood or stone, or another hard material carve something a carved doorway carve something from/out of something The statue was carved out of a single piece of stone. The beads were carved from solid ivory. carve something into/in something The wood had been carved into the shape of a flower. (figurative) Over the centuries, melting snow had carved valleys in the landscape. carve in something She carves in both stone and wood. 2. [transitive] carve something (on something) to write something on a surface by cutting into it They carved their initials on the desk. A Latin inscription had been carved on the lid of the box. 3. [transitive, intransitive] to cut a large piece of cooked meat into smaller pieces for eating carve (something) | carve (somebody) something Who's going to carve the turkey? 4. [transitive, no passive] to work hard in order to have a successful career, reputation, etc. carve something (out) He succeeded in carving out a career in the media. carve something (out) for yourself She has carved a place for herself in the fashion world.

Answer 217

1. a public building or room where people play gambling games for money a new hotel and casino in Las Vegas

Answer 218

1. a large strong building with thick, high walls and towers, built in the past by kings or queens, or other important people, to defend themselves against attack a medieval castle Windsor Castle in/at the castle They were invited to a banquet in the castle. They sought safety within the castle walls. 2. (also rook) (in chess) any of the four pieces placed in the corner squares of the board at the start of the game, usually made to look like a castle

Answer 219

1. not formal casual clothes (= comfortable clothes that you choose to wear in your free time) family parties and other casual occasions 2. [usually before noun] not showing much care or thought; seeming not to be worried; not wanting to show that something is important to you a casual manner It was just a casual remark—I wasn't really serious. He tried to sound casual, but I knew he was worried. They have a casual attitude towards safety (= they don't care enough). 3. [usually before noun] without paying attention to detail At a casual glance, everything seemed normal. It's obvious even to the casual observer. 4. [usually before noun] not permanent; not done, or doing something regularly casual workers/labour Students sometimes do casual work in the tourist trade. They are employed on a casual basis (= they do not have a permanent job with the company). 5. [usually before noun] without deep feelings a casual acquaintance a casual friendship to have casual sex (= to have sex without having a steady relationship with that partner) 6. [only before noun] happening by chance; doing something by chance a casual encounter/meeting a casual passer-by The exhibition is interesting to both the enthusiast and the casual visitor. The disease is not spread by casual contact.

Answer 220

1. [countable] a person who is killed or injured in war or in an accident Our primary objective is reducing road casualties. Both sides had suffered heavy casualties (= many people had been killed). 2. [countable] a person who suffers or a thing that is destroyed when something else takes place SYNONYM victim She became a casualty of the reduction in part-time work (= she lost her job). Small shops have been a casualty of the recession. 3. [uncountable] (also casualty department, accident and emergency) (all British English) (North American English emergency room) the part of a hospital where people who need immediate treatment are taken The victims were rushed to casualty. We waited in casualty until a doctor could see us. He works as a doctor in casualty.

Answer 221

1. a complete list of items, for example of things that people can look at or buy a mail-order catalogue (= a book showing goods for sale to be sent to people’s homes) to consult the library catalogue An illustrated catalogue accompanies the exhibition. Please take a look at our online catalogue. 2. a long series of things that happen (usually bad things) a catalogue of disasters/errors/misfortunes

Answer 222

1. to provide food and drinks for a social event (British English) cater for somebody/something Most of our work now involves catering for weddings. (British and North American English) cater something Who will be catering the wedding?

Answer 223

1. cows and bulls that are kept as farm animals for their milk or meat a herd of cattle twenty head of cattle (= twenty cows) dairy/beef cattle The prisoners were herded into trucks like cattle.

Answer 224

1. [uncountable] care that you take in order to avoid danger or mistakes; the fact of not taking any risks extreme/great caution with caution Statistics should be treated with caution. He could find himself making enemies as well as friends unless he proceeds with the utmost caution. 2. [uncountable, countable] (formal) a warning or a piece of advice about a possible danger or risk a word/note of caution Some cautions must be mentioned—for example good tools are essential to do the job well.

Answer 225

1. being careful about what you say or do, especially to avoid danger or mistakes; not taking any risks The government has been cautious in its response to the report. They've taken a very cautious approach. They expressed cautious optimism about a solution to the crisis. cautious about somebody/something | cautious about doing something He was very cautious about committing himself to anything.

Answer 226

1. a large hole in the side of a hill or cliff or under the ground the mouth (= the entrance) of the cave The area contains vast underground cave systems. a cave-dweller (= a person who lives in a cave) We took shelter in a dark cave. a collapsed limestone cave

Answer 227

1. to stop happening or existing; to stop something from happening or existing Welfare payments cease as soon as an individual starts a job. cease to do something You never cease to amaze me! cease something They voted to cease strike action immediately. He ordered his men to cease fire (= stop shooting). cease doing something The company ceased trading in June.

Answer 228

1. an area of land used for burying dead people, especially one that is not next to a church He was buried in a private cemetery.

Answer 229

1. [uncountable] the state of being certain There is no certainty that the president's removal would end the civil war. I can't say with any certainty where I'll be next week. 2. [countable] a thing that is certain political/moral certainties Her return to the team now seems a certainty.

Answer 230

1. an official document that may be used to prove that the facts it states are true a birth/marriage/death certificate certificate of something a certificate of motor insurance 2. an official document proving that you have completed a course of study or passed an exam; a qualification obtained after a course of study or an exam a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (= a British qualification for teachers) certificate of something A certificate of completion will be issued to all who complete the course.

Answer 231

1. difficult in an interesting way that tests your ability challenging work/questions/problems I have had a challenging and rewarding career as a teacher. 2. done in a way that invites people to disagree or argue with you, or shows that you disagree with them She gave him a challenging look. ‘Are you really sure?’ she demanded. Dealing with challenging behaviour in school is never easy.

Answer 232

1. [countable] a hall in a public building that is used for formal meetings The members left the council chamber. the Senate/House chamber 2. (also Chamber) [countable + singular or plural verb] one of the parts of a parliament the Lower/Upper Chamber (= in Britain, the House of Commons/House of Lords) The party has gained more seats in the Chamber of Deputies in the Italian parliament. Under Senate rules, the chamber must vote on the bill by this Friday. 3. [countable] (in compounds) a room used for the particular purpose that is mentioned a Bronze Age burial chamber 4. [countable] a space in the body, in a plant or in a machine that is separated from the rest the chambers of the heart the rocket’s combustion chamber the chamber of a gun (= the part that holds the bullets) 5. [countable] a space under the ground that is almost completely closed on all sides They found themselves in a vast underground chamber. 6. [countable] (old use) a bedroom or private room Lady Eleanor was found dead in her chamber.

Answer 233

1. (also championships [plural]) a competition to find the best player or team in a particular sport the National Basketball Association Championship He won a silver medal at the European Championships. 2. the position of being a champion They've held the championship for the past two years. 3. the Championship the football (soccer) league in England and Wales that has the second best teams in it, after the Premier League

Answer 234

1. a complete lack of order economic/political/domestic chaos Heavy snow has caused total chaos on the roads. in chaos The house was in chaos after the party. The country was thrown/plunged into chaos by the president's death.

Answer 235

1. characterize somebody/something to be typical of a person, place or thing the rolling hills that characterize this part of England The city is characterized by tall modern buildings in steel and glass. 2. to describe or show the qualities of somebody/something in a particular way characterize somebody/something How would you characterize the mood of the 1990s? characterize somebody/something as something activities that are characterized as ‘male’ or ‘female’ work

Answer 236

1. [uncountable] the power of pleasing or attracting people He was a man of great charm. The hotel is full of charm and character. 2. [countable] a feature or quality that is pleasant or attractive her physical charms (= her beauty) 3. [countable] a small object worn on a chain or bracelet that is believed to bring good luck a lucky charm a charm bracelet 4. [countable] an act or words believed to have magic power

Answer 237

1. very pleasant or attractive The cottage is tiny, but it's charming. She's a charming person. What a charming name. 2. (ironic, informal) used to show that you have a low opinion of somebody’s behaviour They left me to tidy it all up myself. Charming, wasn't it?

Answer 238

1. [countable] a written statement describing the rights that a particular group of people should have the European Social Charter of workers’ rights a rail passenger’s charter a charter of rights for people with disabilities 2. [countable] a written statement of the principles and aims of an organization SYNONYM constitution the United Nations Charter 3. [countable] an official document stating that a government or political leader allows a new organization, town or university to be established and gives it particular rights The Royal College received its charter as a university in 1967. Certain towns were allowed to hold weekly markets, by royal charter. 4. [uncountable] the hiring of a plane, boat, etc. a yacht available for charter

Answer 239

1. [transitive, intransitive] to run, drive, etc. after somebody/something in order to catch them or it chase somebody/something My dog likes chasing rabbits. The kids chased each other around the kitchen table. We were chased by a bull while crossing the field. chase after somebody/something He chased after the burglar but couldn't catch him. 2. [transitive] chase somebody/something + adv./prep. to force somebody/something to run away Chase the cat out—we don't want her in the kitchen. This particular fish chases off any other fish that enters its territory. 3. [transitive] chase something to try to obtain or achieve something, for example money, work or success Too many people are chasing too few jobs nowadays. The team is chasing its first win in five games. 4. [intransitive, transitive] (informal) to try to persuade somebody to have a sexual relationship with you chase after somebody Kevin's been chasing after Joan for months. chase somebody Girls are always chasing him. 5. [transitive] chase somebody (informal) to persuade somebody to do something that they should have done already I need to chase him about organizing the meeting. 6. [intransitive] + adv./prep. (informal) to rush or hurry somewhere I've been chasing around town all morning looking for a present for Sharon. 7. [transitive] chase something (specialist) to cut patterns or designs on metal chased silver

Answer 240

1. [countable] either side of the face below the eyes chubby/rosy/pink cheeks He kissed her on both cheeks. Couples were dancing cheek to cheek. 2. -cheeked (in adjectives) having the type of cheeks mentioned chubby-cheeked/rosy-cheeked/hollow-cheeked 3. [countable] (informal) either of the buttocks

Answer 241

1. [intransitive, transitive] to shout loudly, in order to show support or praise for somebody, or to encourage them We all cheered as the team came on to the field. Cheering crowds greeted their arrival. cheer for somebody/something The fans cheered for their team. cheer somebody The crowd cheered the president as he drove slowly by. 2. [transitive] [usually passive] to encourage somebody or to give them hope or comfort be cheered (by something) She was cheered by the news from home.

Answer 242

1. [countable + singular or plural verb] a group of people who sing together, for example in church services or public performances She sings in the school choir. He joined the church choir when he was eight. to conduct/lead/direct a choir a male voice choir The children's choir will perform some Christmas songs. 2. [countable] the part of a church where the choir sits during services

Answer 243

1. to cut something into pieces with a sharp tool such as a knife chop something He was chopping logs for firewood. Add the finely chopped onions. chop something (up) (into something) Chop the carrots up into small pieces. (figurative) The country was chopped up into small administrative areas. 2. [usually passive] (informal) to suddenly stop providing or allowing something; to suddenly reduce something by a large amount SYNONYM cut be chopped Their training courses are to be chopped. be chopped from something to something The share price was chopped from 50 pence to 20 pence. 3. chop somebody/something to hit somebody/something downwards with a quick, short movement Guzman tried to chop the ball on the ground and use his speed.

Answer 244

1. (of a disease) lasting for a long time; difficult to cure chronic bronchitis/arthritis/asthma 2. having had a disease for a long time a chronic alcoholic/depressive 3. (of a problem) lasting a long time; difficult to solve the country’s chronic unemployment problem a chronic shortage of housing in rural areas

Answer 245

1. a thick, solid piece that has been cut or broken off something a chunk of cheese/masonry 2. (informal) a fairly large amount of something I've already written a fair chunk of the article. This one project has taken a substantial chunk of our budget. 3. (linguistics) a phrase or group of words that can be learnt as a unit by somebody who is learning a language. Examples of chunks are ‘Can I have the bill, please?’ and ‘Pleased to meet you’. The listening texts consist of short, bite-sized chunks which are accessible to beginners.

Answer 246

1. a line, route or journey around a place The race ended with eight laps of a city centre circuit. The earth takes a year to make a circuit of (= go around) the sun. 2. the complete path of wires and equipment along which an electric current flows an electrical circuit a circuit diagram (= one showing all the connections in the different parts of the circuit) SEE ALSO closed-circuit television, integrated circuit, logic circuit, printed circuit, ring circuit, short circuit 3. (in sport) a series of games or matches in which the same players regularly take part This is her biggest triumph in nine years on the women's tennis circuit. He announced his retirement from the professional circuit last year. 4. a track for cars or motorcycles to race around 5. a series of places or events of a particular kind at which the same people appear or take part the lecture/cabaret circuit 6. a series of different exercises that you do one after the other when doing circuit training in sport or fitness training I do circuits in the gym twice a week. 7. a regular journey made by a judge to hear court cases in each of the courts of law in a particular area a circuit court/judge

Answer 247

1. [intransitive, transitive] when a liquid, gas or air circulates or is circulated, it moves continuously around a place or system The condition prevents the blood from circulating freely. circulate something Cooled air is circulated throughout the building. 2. [intransitive, transitive] if a story, an idea, information, etc. circulates or if you circulate it, it spreads or it is passed from one person to another Rumours began to circulate about his financial problems. circulate around something There's a story circulating around the office that you are about to leave the company. circulate among somebody newspapers circulating among minority communities circulate something Who has been circulating these rumours? 3. [transitive] to send goods or information to all the people in a group circulate something They circulated a petition for his release. The book was circulated widely in Russia. circulate something to somebody The document will be circulated to all members. 4. [intransitive] to move around a group, especially at a party, talking to different people

Answer 248

1. [uncountable] the movement of blood around the body Regular exercise will improve blood circulation. to have good/bad circulation 2. [uncountable] the passing or spreading of something from one person or place to another the circulation of money/information/ideas in circulation A number of forged tickets are in circulation. The coins were taken out of circulation. Copies of the magazine were withdrawn from circulation. putting computer viruses into circulation 3. [countable, usually singular] the usual number of copies of a newspaper or magazine that are sold each day, week, etc. a daily circulation of more than one million The newspaper has a daily circulation of 20 000. 4. [uncountable, countable] the movement of something (for example air, water, gas, etc.) around an area or inside a system or machine Poor air circulation can cause condensation. 5. [uncountable] the fact that somebody takes part in social activities at a particular time in circulation Anne has been ill but now she's back in circulation. out of circulation I was out of circulation for months after the baby was born.

Answer 249

1. the legal right to belong to a particular country They were granted full French citizenship. You can apply for citizenship after five years' residency. 2. the state of being a citizen and accepting the responsibilities of it an education that prepares young people for citizenship

Answer 250

1. officially connected with a town or city civic buildings/leaders 2. connected with the people who live in a town or city a sense of civic pride (= pride that people feel for their town or city) civic duties/responsibilities The competition would be an opportunity to foster civic pride. Voting should be a matter of civic duty.

Answer 251

1. a person who is not a member of the armed forces or the police Two soldiers and one civilian were killed in the explosion. Hundreds of innocent civilians have died in the air strikes. Further measures are needed to protect civilians. The group was accused of targeting civilians.

Answer 252

1. [uncountable] a state of human society that is very developed and organized the technology of modern civilization The Victorians regarded the railways as bringing progress and civilization. 2. [uncountable, countable] a society, its culture and its way of life during a particular period of time or in a particular part of the world the civilizations of ancient Greece and Rome diseases that are common in Western civilization 3. [uncountable] all the people in the world and the societies they live in, considered as a whole Environmental damage threatens the whole of civilization. Could this be the end of civilization as we know it? 4. [uncountable] (often humorous) a place that offers you the comfortable way of life of a modern society It's good to be back in civilization after two weeks in a tent!

Answer 253

1. (formal) to make something clearer or easier to understand clarify something to clarify a situation/problem/issue I hope this clarifies my position. The law on drugs needs to be clarified. Talking to someone has helped clarify my feelings. clarify what/how, etc… She asked him to clarify what he meant. 2. clarify something to make something, especially butter, pure by heating it clarified butter

Answer 254

1. the quality of being expressed clearly a lack of clarity in the law The brilliant clarity of his argument could not be faulted. 2. the ability to think about or understand something clearly clarity of thought/purpose/vision With painful clarity she remembered the day he had died. 3. if a picture, substance or sound has clarity, you can see or hear it very clearly, or see through it easily the clarity of the sound on the recording

Answer 255

1. clash (with somebody) | clash (between A and B) a short fight between two groups of people Clashes broke out between police and demonstrators. Eight people were wounded in a clash with border guards. Several people were injured in violent clashes with the police. 2. clash (with somebody) (over something) | clash (between A and B) (over something) an argument between two people or groups of people who have different beliefs and ideas SYNONYM conflict There has been a head-on clash between the two candidates over education policy. 3. the difference that exists between two things that are opposed to each other SYNONYM conflict a clash of interests/opinions/cultures a personality clash with the boss 4. a situation in which two events happen at the same time so that you cannot go to or see them both a clash in the timetable/schedule 5. [usually singular] a loud noise made by two metal objects being hit together a clash of cymbals/swords 6. (used in newspapers, about sports) an occasion when two teams or players compete against each other Bayern’s clash with Roma in the Champions League 7. the situation when two colours, designs, etc. look ugly when they are put together

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