English Vocabulary in Use - Upper-Intermediate & Advanced

This set of vocabulary flashcards covers essential linguistic terms, word formation categories, and common idiomatic structures found in the English language as presented in the textbook.

Suffix

A group of letters added to the end of a word to change its word-class or meaning (e.g., -ness, -ment, -ise).

Prefix

A group of letters added to the beginning of a word to modify its meaning, often used to create negatives (e.g., un-, dis-, anti-).

Homonym

A word that is either a homograph (spelt the same but with a different meaning/pronunciation) or a homophone (pronounced the same but spelt differently).

Collocation

Words that frequently occur together naturally in language (e.g., 'torrential rain' or 'auburn hair').

Abstract Noun

A noun representing an idea, experience, or quality rather than a physical object (e.g., happiness, faith, wisdom).

Compound Adjective

An adjective made up of two parts, usually written with a hyphen (e.g., well-dressed, absent-minded).

Collective Noun

A noun used to describe a group of the same things (e.g., a flock of sheep, a bunch of flowers).

Register

A style of speaking or writing that is appropriate to a particular social situation (ranging from slang to very formal).

Onomatopoeia

The formation of words that sound like the noise they describe (e.g., moo, hiss, clang).

Binomial

An idiomatic expression where two words are joined by a conjunction, typically in a fixed order (e.g., odds and ends, peace and quiet).

Simile

An informal or humorous comparison using 'as…as' or 'like…' (e.g., as blind as a bat, works like a dream).

Pejorative

Describing words that have a negative association or are intended to be disparaging (e.g., pig-headed vs. determined).

Phrasal Verb

A basic verb combined with a preposition or particle to create a new meaning (e.g., bring about, take after).

Discourse Marker

Small words or phrases used to organize, frame, or comment on what is being said or written (e.g., well, anyway, mind you).

Clippings

Informal abbreviations of words where a segment is removed (e.g., 'fridge' for refrigerator, 'lab' for laboratory).

Acronym

An abbreviation formed from the initial letters of other words and pronounced as a word (e.g., NATO, AIDS).