Core Vocabulary for DSE English

Vocabulary practice flashcards covering the top 10 core vocabulary words frequently tested in the HKDSE English examination, complete with contextual definitions, collocations, and exam testing points.

parasocial (adj.)

Describing a one-sided relationship formed by a audience member towards a media figure.

embolden(v.)

To give someone the courage or confidence to do something or to behave in a certain way

precarious(adj.)

Not securely held or in position; dangerously likely to fall, collapse, or fail

slacking(n./v.)

Working or exerting oneself with less effort and enthusiasm than usual; being lazy

upsurge(n.)

A sudden and dramatic increase in something

divergent(adj.)

Tending to be different or develop in different directions; showing disagreement

apathy(n.)

Lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern about something

disdain(n./v.)

The feeling that someone or something is unworthy of one's consideration or respect

leverage(v.)

To use something to maximum advantage or to achieve a particular result

rekindle(v.)

To relight, revive, or renew a feeling, relationship, or interest after a period of dormancy

boundless(adj.)

Having no bounds or limits; vast, infinite, or unlimited

overdue(adj.)

Not having happened, been done, or been settled at the proper or expected time

friction(n.)

Conflict, disagreement, or hostility between people or groups with opposing views

adaptable(adj.)

Able to adjust oneself readily to different conditions, environments, or circumstances

ubiquitous(adj.)

Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time

perception(n.)

The way in which something is regarded, understood, or interpreted by the mind.

discontent(n.)

A feeling of dissatisfaction, unhappiness, or grievance with one's circumstances

biodiversity(n.)

The variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat

Sprawl(v.)

To spread out over a large area in an untidy or irresponsible way.

Amenities(n.)

Desirable or useful features of a building or place that provide comfort or convenience.

Mushroom (v.)

To grow, expand, or develop rapidly.

Poach(v.)

To illegally hunt, catch, or steal wild animals or their eggs

Agitated

Feeling or appearing troubled, nervous, or angry.

Offence

An illegal act or a breach of a law or rule

Recruit

To enroll, enlist, or persuade someone to join an organization or cause

Juvenile

A young animal, bird, or organism that has not reached maturity; young or immature

Sweltering

Uncomfortably hot and humid

authentic (adj.)

Genuine, real, or true (antonyms: fake, artificial).

obscure (v.)

To conceal, blur, or make difficult to understand.

malicious (adj.)

Spiteful or intentionally harmful.

invulnerable (adj.)

Incapable of being harmed, damaged, or defeated; unassailable.

ingratiate (v.)

To flatter, seek favor, or win someone's approval

schadenfreude (n.)

Malicious pleasure or satisfaction derived from someone else's misfortune.

dissociated (adj.)

Mentally detached, disconnected, or estranged from reality.

speculation (n.)

The forming of a theory, conjecture, or guess without firm evidence.