Vocabulary for Advanced English Learners: Definitions and Usage

Destitute

Extremely poor; lacking the basic necessities of life, such as food, clothing, and shelter.

Dubious

Doubtful, uncertain, or questionable; hesitant or causing suspicion.

Emulate

To strive to equal or match someone or something, often through imitation, because of admiration.

Guile

Sly or cunning intelligence; deceitful, treacherous, or crafty behavior.

Irrespective

Regardless of; not taking something into account.

Profound

Very great or intense; having deep insight or understanding.

Tenacious

Tending to keep a firm hold of something; clinging or adhering closely; persistent.

Turbulent

Characterized by conflict, disorder, or confusion; not calm or stable.

Vengeful

Seeking to harm someone in return for a perceived injury or wrong; unforgiving.

Vigilance

The action or state of keeping careful watch for possible danger or difficulties.

Ramshackle

In a state of severe disrepair; loosely made or held together (usually referring to a house or vehicle).

Congruence

Agreement or harmony; the state of corresponding or fitting together.

Provocative

Causing annoyance, anger, or another strong reaction, especially deliberately; intentionally stimulating.

Vigorous

Strong, healthy, and full of energy; done with force or energy.

Refute

To prove a statement or theory to be wrong or false; to disprove.

Illuminating

Serving to enlighten or explain; making something clear or easy to understand.

Engulf

To sweep over something so as to surround or cover it completely.

Atavistic

Relating to or characterized by reversion to something ancient or ancestral; primitive.

Eloquence

Fluent or persuasive speaking or writing.