ACADEMIC NEW WORDS AND THEIR USAGE

1.   abandon

forsake, leave behind

NOTES:

Common academic collocations: abandon a hypothesis, abandon a line of research 
COCA ( www.americancorpus.org) indicates academic collocates include decision, efforts, position, policy...i couldn't find any examples in mechanical engineering, so this might be a verb used more in policy-related fields?

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

As people abandon desktop computers for mobile ones, existing tech companies’ business models are being upended and new companies are blooming. 
— New York Times (Jan 7, 2013)

2.   abstract

existing only in the mind; separated from embodiment

NOTES:

Also a noun. the abstract of an article is a structured summary of its contents. We need to supply abstracts of conference presentations for the conference program or conference proposals sometimes too.

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The other group wrote in a more abstract, evaluative way, prompted by questions such as “Why did the event happen? 
— Scientific American (Dec 28, 2012)

3.   access

the right to enter

NOTES:

I need to remember to pronounce the /k/ sound in the middle: AEK sess. If not, I sound like I'm saying the verb "assess"

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

But one reason may be, paradoxically, greater access to health insurance. 
— Reuters (Jan 7, 2013)

4.   accommodate

have room for; hold without crowding

NOTES:

academic collocations: "accommodate needs," "designed to accommodate [something]" common nouns that collocate with this verb are "learning, changes, differences" (COCA atwww.americancorpus.org)

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

City clerks' offices around Maine scheduled extra office hours to accommodate same-sex couples rushing to wed. 
— Reuters (Dec 29, 2012)

5.   accompany

go or travel along with

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Mr. Obama demands that any spending cuts be accompanied by revenue increases. 
— New York Times (Jan 6, 2013)

6.   accumulate

get or gather together

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Business would still be left with record reserves, much higher than those accumulated in earlier recessions. 
— The Guardian (Jan 2, 2013)

7.   acknowledge

declare to be true or admit the existence or reality or truth of

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Acknowledging differences in work style enables leaders to structure interactions better. 
— Washington Post (Jan 5, 2013)

8.   acquire

come into the possession of something concrete or abstract

NOTES:

collocations: acquire a house, knowledge, experience 
q is /k/ 
stress on QUIRE 
obtain, get, buy 
members of the word family: acquisition (mergers and acquisitions)

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The design of the product resembles gadgets made by Nest Labs, the connected home company Google acquired earlier this year for $3.2 billion. 
— Wall Street Journal (Sep 10, 2014)

9.   adapt

make fit for, or change to suit a new purpose

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Japanese officials said adapting overseas technologies presented a particular challenge. 
— New York Times (Jan 7, 2013)

10.                adequate

having the requisite qualities or resources to meet a task

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Better said it had injected significant funds into the business "without adequate returns". 
— The Guardian (Jan 4, 2013)

11.                adjust

alter or regulate so as to achieve accuracy or conform to a standard

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The managers typically adjust their holdings based on algorithms and charts tracking trends in global markets. 
— Wall Street Journal (Jan 6, 2013)

12.                advocate

speak, plead, or argue in favor of

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

He was probably best known for his work on heart disease, advocating prevention through exercise and diet, particularly foods low in animal fat and sodium. 
— New York Times (Jan 6, 2013)

13.                affect

have an effect upon

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Would adding this data to someone's medical record affect health insurance rates? 
— Slate (Jan 7, 2013)

14.                aggregate

a sum total of many heterogenous things taken together

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Using data from Twitter covering 60,000 trips, aggregated within a ten mile radius, Fischer created this map of Europe's transport network. 
— The Guardian (Nov 22, 2012)

15.                allocate

distribute according to a plan or set apart for a special purpose

NOTES:

allocate resources

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Existing x86 processor designs allocate cache on a first come, first served basis, which allows some workloads to monopolize the shared pool. 
— Forbes (Sep 10, 2014)

16.                alter

cause to change; make different; cause a transformation

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Yet scientists have struggled to understand whether climate change is altering that cycle. 
— Scientific American (Jan 4, 2013)

17.                ambiguous

having more than one possible meaning

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The fourth is currently classified as probable case and his infection status may remainambiguous. 
— Scientific American (Dec 5, 2012)

18.                analogy

drawing a comparison in order to show a similarity in some respect

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

While both air travel and pipelines are safer than their road alternatives, the analogy only extends so far. 
— Scientific American (Nov 16, 2012)

19.                annual

occurring or payable every year

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

What are the annual sales of electric vehicles in India? 
— Forbes (Jan 7, 2013)

20.                anticipate

regard something as probable or likely

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“We anticipate some potential short-term disruption,” Mr. Morton said, “but no significant long-term implications.” 
— New York Times (Jan 6, 2013)

21.                apparent

clearly revealed to the mind or the senses or judgment

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The report of Rain's apparent romance with popular South Korean actress Kim Tae-hee, 32, broke in local media on Tuesday. 
— BBC (Jan 2, 2013)

22.                append

fix to; attach

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The hashtag has been appended to quite a few approving tweets. 
— The Guardian (Jun 20, 2012)

23.                appreciate

be fully aware of; realize fully

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

There are, of course, plenty of things to appreciate about Downton. 
— Time (Jan 4, 2013)

24.                approach

ideas or actions intended to deal with a problem or situation

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

He said a better understanding of the links between high blood pressure and dementia could be crucial for developing new treatments or approaches to prevention. 
— BBC (Jan 7, 2013)

25.                appropriate

suitable for a particular person or place or condition etc

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Mr. Frederick said “that kind of legal strategy is perfectly appropriate.” 
— New York Times (Jan 7, 2013)

26.                approximate

judge tentatively or form an estimate of (quantities or time)

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Food technology means they aren't bad these days, but they're only going to approximate the real thing. 
— The Guardian (Jul 12, 2012)

27.                arbitrary

based on or subject to individual discretion or preference or sometimes impulse or caprice

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

His works are often intentionally placed in unglamorous, arbitrary surroundings like abandoned buildings, far from the sleek world of urban galleries. 
— New York Times (Dec 5, 2012)

28.                aspect

a characteristic to be considered

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

He will oversee all aspects of marketing for the company, including advertising, brand management, social media, and communications, LivingSocial said on Tuesday. 
— Reuters (Jan 8, 2013)

29.                assess

evaluate or estimate the nature, quality, ability, extent, or significance of

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Another complexity: most studies assess maternal drinking through interviews, and pregnant women might lie about or underestimate their consumption out of embarrassment or shame. 
— Scientific American (Jan 4, 2013)

30.                assign

select something or someone for a specific purpose

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

A larger staff has been assigned to the school, she said, including mental health professionals. 
— New York Times (Jan 3, 2013)

31.                assume

take to be the case or to be true; accept without verification or proof

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The market, it is generally assumed, will eventually drive up wages. 
— New York Times (Dec 30, 2012)

32.                attach

be attached; be in contact with

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“Indonesians are religious people, they are very much attached to their religious teachings, their religious values,” he said. 
— New York Times (Jan 6, 2013)

33.                attain

to gain with effort

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

He joined the Army near the end of and attained the rank of staff sergeant, remaining in the United States. 
— New York Times (Oct 12, 2012)

34.                attribute

an abstraction belonging to or characteristic of an entity

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Ms. Ora attributes much of her fashion education to her surroundings. 
— New York Times (Jan 9, 2013)

35.                authority

the power or right to give orders or make decisions

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Soccer authorities have been helping those banned with getting back on their feet and finding a way back into society. 
— New York Times (Jan 11, 2013)

36.                behalf

as the agent of or on someone's part (usually expressed as "on behalf of" rather than "in behalf of")

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The husband sits in the dominant, protective role, watching his wife’s efforts on behalf of the family and taking pride. 
— New York Times (Aug 30, 2012)

37.                bias

a partiality that prevents objective consideration of an issue or situation

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

More than 300 political parties contested the last general elections, representing various concerns,biases, cries for justice and pressure groups. 
— New York Times (Jan 2, 2013)

38.                brief

give essential information to someone

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“Flu vaccines are tough,” Bresee said during a telephone briefing with reporters. 
— Washington Post (Jan 11, 2013)

39.                bulk

the property possessed by a large mass

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Across Portugal, supermarkets and hypermarkets, with their inexpensive packaged goods andbulk items, continued to gain ground. 
— New York Times (Nov 17, 2012)

40.                capable

(usually followed by `of') having capacity or ability

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

As John Stuart Mill emphasized many years ago, those who are capable of supporting themselves should not rely on the habitual aid of others. 
— New York Times (Dec 17, 2012)

41.                capacity

capability to perform or produce

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“The hospitals treating the injured are at maximum capacity. 
— Newsweek (Jan 11, 2013)

42.                cease

put an end to a state or an activity

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The company said it was also temporarily ceasing sales of modern sporting rifles nationwide. 
— New York Times (Dec 18, 2012)

43.                channel

transmit or serve as the medium for transmission

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Options include channeling more funds to the banking sector to boost lending, buying government bonds on the secondary market and even reducing foreign currency reserves. 
— Reuters (Jan 10, 2013)

44.                chart

a visual display of information

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

In some countries, including the largest developing economies in Asia, the G.D.P. charts show no indication that bad things ever happened. 
— New York Times (Dec 28, 2012)

45.                cite

make reference to

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The ratings agency cited India's high saving and investment rates, relatively competitive private sector and diverse economy as rationale behind its decision. 
— New York Times (Jan 10, 2013)

46.                civil

of or occurring within the state or between or among citizens of the state

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

What followed, officials said, was a remarkable show of international cooperation over Syria's civilwar. 
— New York Times (Jan 8, 2013)

47.                clarify

make clear and (more) comprehensible

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

He later clarified his meaning and said the media had his misconstrued his comments. 
— Washington Post (Nov 9, 2012)

48.                classic

of recognized authority or excellence

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“The Blue Angel,” adapted from Heinrich Mann’s novel “Small Town Tyrant,” is a cinema classic that made Marlene Dietrich a star. 
— New York Times (Dec 26, 2012)

49.                code

a set of rules or principles or laws (especially written ones)

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

France's Civil Code says one must have another nationality in order to give up French citizenship because it is forbidden to be stateless. 
— New York Times (Jan 3, 2013)

50.                coherent

marked by an orderly, logical, and aesthetically consistent relation of parts

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

That leadership vacuum, Mr. Bealefeld and others said, has inevitably depleted morale and kept the agency from developing a coherent agenda. 
— New York Times (Dec 26, 2012)

51.                coincide

happen simultaneously

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The cutbacks in education and growing youth unemployment coincide with two demographic crises facing European governments. 
— New York Times (Oct 15, 2012)

52.                collapse

break down, literally or metaphorically

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The collapse of Latvia’s largest bank in 1995 wiped out many people’s savings. 
— New York Times (Jan 2, 2013)

53.                commence

set in motion, cause to start

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Training commences with what is known as a “warm welcome.” 
— New York Times (Jun 24, 2012)

54.                commission

a special group delegated to consider some matter

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The commission collected evidence that showed the authorities discussed covering up killings, including by quickly burying the bodies of victims. 
— New York Times (Jan 3, 2013)

55.                commit

give entirely to a specific person, activity, or cause

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

A lawyer for the medical examiner’s office, Mimi Mairs, said the agency had committed to “leaving no stone unturned in recalling casework she touched.” 
— New York Times (Jan 11, 2013)

56.                communicate

be in verbal contact; interchange information or ideas

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

By introducing the rating system to games that rely on digital distribution, Vance said, developers will be able to better communicate their nature to consumers.

57.                community

(ecology) a group of interdependent organisms inhabiting the same region and interacting with each other

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

In November, Hurricane Sandy devastated entire communities in coastal New York and New Jersey and killed over 100 people. 
— New York Times (Jan 9, 2013)

58.                compatible

able to exist and perform in harmonious or agreeable combination

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Starting in late June, a system that sends emergency alerts via texts began operating oncompatible cellphones. 
— New York Times (Aug 14, 2012)

59.                compensate

make amends for; pay compensation for

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The German government has already compensated Jews who were forced to work in the ghettos. 
— New York Times (Jan 3, 2013)

60.                compile

get or gather together

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Mobile video calling has risen so quickly that industry analysts have not yet compiled exact numbers. 
— New York Times (Dec 10, 2012)

61.                complement

something added to complete or embellish or make perfect

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Third, in 2008-9, monetary and fiscal policies were complemented by government capital injections directly into United States and European banks. 
— New York Times (Aug 11, 2011)

62.                component

an artifact that is one of the individual parts of which a composite entity is made up; especially a part that can be separated from or attached to a system

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Avoiding turnovers, hitting the offensive boards and getting to the free throw line are all keycomponents of an efficient offense. 
— New York Times (Nov 29, 2012)

63.                compound

a whole formed by a union of two or more elements or parts

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The New England Compounding Center was shut down, and inspections found extensive contamination. 
— New York Times (Jan 5, 2013)

64.                comprehensive

including all or everything

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“ Comprehensive investigative reports for the four equine fatalities from the inner track meet are being completed by board staff.” 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

65.                comprise

be composed of

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Peck, though, was surprised to learn the other team nicknames used in his league, which wascomprised entirely of white men. 
— Washington Post (Jun 27, 2012)

66.                conceive

have the idea for

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

This strategy, while not entirely random, was hardly well conceived. 
— New York Times (May 21, 2012)

67.                concentrate

make denser, stronger, or purer

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Mostly we were silent, concentrating on our steps, but occasionally we would chat. 
— New York Times (Jan 3, 2013)

68.                concept

an abstract or general idea inferred or derived from specific instances

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

There is little technical artistry involved, the focus instead on simple concepts and difficult execution. 
— New York Times (Jan 8, 2013)

69.                conclude

bring to a close

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Taken together, the reports have led analysts to conclude that after years of being an economic drag, housing is now contributing to economic growth. 
— Washington Post (Dec 27, 2012)

70.                concurrent

occurring or operating at the same time

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Problem solving was concurrent with physical effort, so the brain must have adapted by developing appropriate regions to enhance neurocognition. 
— New York Times (Sep 15, 2010)

71.                conduct

(behavioral attributes) the way a person behaves toward other people

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

For years, lawmakers, urged by the NRA, have placed so-called riders on spending bills that restrict these and other agencies from conducting such research. 
— Washington Post (Jan 13, 2013)

72.                confer

have a conference in order to talk something over

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

He especially prefers having a radiologist on-site because he believes that conferring in person helps prevent mistaken readings and gets quicker results. 
— New York Times (Oct 9, 2012)

73.                confine

place limits on (extent or access)

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Is erotic sculpture confined to temples or particular religious cults? 
— New York Times (Jan 10, 2013)

74.                confirm

establish or strengthen as with new evidence or facts

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The identities have yet to be officially confirmed, he said. 
— New York Times (Jan 11, 2013)

75.                conform

be similar, be in line with

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

In other words, they conformed to feminine stereotypes. 
— New York Times (Dec 16, 2012)

76.                consent

give an affirmative reply to; respond favorably to

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Companies also must get parental consent before using tracking tools such as cookies that peek into children’s IP addresses and device identification numbers. 
— Washington Post (Dec 20, 2012)

77.                considerable

large or relatively large in number or amount or extent or degree

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

In other words, the trial court wanted to treat the mass media like a public utility, which carriedconsiderable consequences. 
— New York Times (Jan 5, 2013)

78.                consist

have its essential character; be comprised or contained in; be embodied in

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

They consist of arms, elbows and very long finger bones connected by two layers of thin skin. 
— Washington Post (Oct 31, 2012)

79.                constant

uninterrupted in time and indefinitely long continuing

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

False reviews are a constant problem on consumer Web sites. 
— New York Times (Nov 13, 2012)

80.                constitute

form or compose

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The FDA said it is also working on proposed safety regulations targeting imported food – whichconstitutes 15% of what’s eaten in the U.S. 
— Chicago Tribune (Jan 5, 2013)

81.                constrain

hold back

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Constrained school budgets are likely to prevent any mass hiring or arming of security officers. 
— New York Times (Dec 19, 2012)

82.                construct

make by combining materials and parts

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

He wanted and received some honest feedback to help construct a game plan that would put them in better positions to succeed. 
— Washington Post (Nov 29, 2012)

83.                consult

get or ask advice from

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

She said she had decided to step down after consulting family members and friends. 
— New York Times (Jan 10, 2013)

84.                consume

use up (resources or materials)

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The technology in theory allows for thinner screens that consume less power. 
— Reuters (Jan 8, 2013)

85.                contact

be in or establish communication with

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Beck made eye contact with me and nodded. 
— New York Times (Jan 11, 2013)

86.                contemporary

belonging to the present time

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

There is, in other words, much to appreciate about contemporary movies this year. 
— New York Times (Dec 14, 2012)

87.                context

the set of facts or circumstances that surround a situation or event

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Geological Survey has posted some useful context and interpretation. 
— New York Times (Dec 19, 2012)

88.                contract

a binding agreement between two or more persons that is enforceable by law

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Other league business will also resume, including trades and contract signings. 
— New York Times (Jan 13, 2013)

89.                contradict

prove negative; show to be false

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The C.I.A.’s acting director, Michael Morell, recently contradicted that, saying harsh techniques did produce some tips that led to Bin Laden. 
— New York Times (Jan 3, 2013)

90.                contrary

exact opposition

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

On the contrary, he wrote, such clauses are used in most debt restructuring exercises, and investors “would expect Greece to use it.” 
— New York Times (Dec 23, 2012)

91.                contribute

contribute to some cause

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

In 2009, researchers at Mount Sinai Medical Center reported finding evidence suggesting that the chemicals may also contribute to obesity in girls. 
— New York Times (Jan 7, 2013)

92.                controversy

a contentious speech act; a dispute where there is strong disagreement

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

But the performance has been clouded by controversy. 
— New York Times (Jan 7, 2013)

93.                convene

meet formally

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

One week later, the sides convened again with federal mediators in New Jersey, but still couldn't make progress. 
— New York Times (Dec 29, 2012)

94.                converse

carry on a conversation

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

But people in traditional societies converse constantly, learning from one another and sharing. 
— New York Times (Jan 10, 2013)

95.                convert

change the nature, purpose, or function of something

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Let us embrace book shelves that convert to dining room tables. 
— New York Times (Dec 29, 2012)

96.                convince

make (someone) agree, understand, or realize the truth or validity of something

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

They are still not convinced of Mr. Bozizé’s good will. 
— New York Times (Jan 11, 2013)

97.                cooperate

work together on a common enterprise of project

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

We are cooperating with authorities and conducting a full internal investigation. 
— New York Times (Jan 4, 2013)

98.                core

the choicest or most essential or most vital part of some idea or experience

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

College admission personnel will focus on your performance in this year's core academic classes. 
— New York Times (Jan 8, 2013)

99.                correspond

be compatible, similar or consistent; coincide in their characteristics

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had made the temporary cease-fire by Israel’s airplanes conditional on a corresponding halt to rocket fire from Gaza. 
— New York Times (Nov 16, 2012)

100.             create

bring into existence

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

What started as a few coins to buy one hen ends up creating jobs for people all over Ghana. 
— Washington Post (Jan 11, 2013)

101.             criterion

the ideal in terms of which something can be judged

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Regulators say lenders must consider at least eight criteria, including a borrower’s credit history, debt obligations, employment status, income and assets. 
— Washington Post (Jan 10, 2013)

102.             crucial

of extreme importance; vital to the resolution of a crisis

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Developing Internet programming is a crucial part of Sony’s future, he said. 
— New York Times (Jan 6, 2013)

103.             culture

a particular society at a particular time and place

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“It was really mixed cultures growing up,” she said. 
— New York Times (Jan 9, 2013)

104.             currency

the metal or paper medium of exchange that is presently used

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The main move in currency markets Tuesday was a stronger yen. 
— Wall Street Journal (Jan 7, 2013)

105.             cycle

a periodically repeated sequence of events

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

But real estate tends to move in longer cycles, and Mr. Case is still saying now is a good time to buy. 
— New York Times (Jan 11, 2013)

106.             debate

a discussion in which reasons are advanced for and against some proposition or proposal

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“Political capital in the gun debate only goes so far. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

107.             decade

a period of 10 years

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Decades ago, Andrews whittled wood, watching the shavings fall away to reveal something recognizable. 
— Washington Post (Jan 13, 2013)

108.             decline

grow worse

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

But there will be less dancing now, because the chickens’ numbers have declined. 
— New York Times (Jan 13, 2013)

109.             deduce

conclude by reasoning; in logic

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Looking at a map later, I deduced that this one was private too. 
— New York Times (Nov 30, 2011)

110.             define

show the form or outline of

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Relative greatness can be tricky to define across tennis eras. 
— New York Times (Jan 11, 2013)

111.             definite

precise; explicit and clearly defined

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

While there are no definite plans yet, “we are looking to broaden our outreach beyond New York,” said Terry Lynam, a spokesman for North Shore. 
— New York Times (Mar 8, 2012)

112.             demonstrate

give an exhibition of to an interested audience

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“Over a century of experience in the United States has demonstrated the powerful role women’s colleges play in educating women leaders.” 
— New York Times (Nov 26, 2012)

113.             denote

be a sign or indication of

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Heard in that light, the work’s agonized gestures, halting pace and tense silences denoted courage and ineffable dignity. 
— New York Times (Mar 12, 2012)

114.             deny

declare untrue; contradict

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Both the military and Mr. Qadri have publicly denied working together. 
— New York Times (Jan 13, 2013)

115.             depress

press down

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

"It was the most depressing meeting ever," said one attendee who spoke on the condition of anonymity. 
— New York Times (Jan 10, 2013)

116.             derive

come from

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

He said his son was "a very simple person at heart" who " derives pleasures from simple things in life." 
— New York Times (Oct 17, 2012)

117.             design

the act of working out the form of something (as by making a sketch or outline or plan)

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The previous models had identical designs that made it easier for bump drafting because the front and rear bumpers lined up squarely. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

118.             detect

discover or determine the existence, presence, or fact of

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

But soon enough, they detected something wrong, not least that Mr. Holmes was apparently trying to conceal a handgun. 
— New York Times (Jan 9, 2013)

119.             device

an instrumentality invented for a particular purpose

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Mr. Scal said wireless fitness devices were becoming popular because they address basic needs for consumers, unlike another trend seen at the show, enormous televisions. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

120.             devote

dedicate

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

He says movies based on video games rarely please devoted fans and could taint the brand. 
— New York Times (Dec 16, 2012)

121.             differentiate

be a distinctive feature, attribute, or trait; sometimes in a very positive sense

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“Whirlpool’s key differentiating points are quality and innovation,” said Mr. Beck, and “the icing is that, hey, we’re made in the United States.” 
— New York Times (Dec 24, 2012)

122.             dimension

a construct whereby objects or individuals can be distinguished

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

And then there are Houston’s narrow field dimensions, a factor in United’s struggles this year. 
— Washington Post (Nov 11, 2012)

123.             diminish

decrease in size, extent, or range

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The market malfunctions have been assigned part of the blame for the diminishing amount of trading happening on the nation’s stock exchanges. 
— New York Times (Jan 10, 2013)

124.             discrete

constituting a separate entity or part

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The film’s narrative is divided into discrete chapters and told out of chronological sequence. 
— New York Times (Dec 12, 2011)

125.             displace

cause to move, usually with force or pressure

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“There are these young guys in the camps, very well dressed, that are definitely not displacedpersons,” Mr. Goffeau said. 
— New York Times (Dec 16, 2012)

126.             display

something intended to communicate a particular impression

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Eighty of his black-and-white photographs, taken over a 70-year period, will be on display in this exhibition. 
— New York Times (Jan 10, 2013)

127.             dispose

throw or cast away

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Food trash has to be disposed of immediately, the futon tucked into its slot every morning, each object stored after use. 
— New York Times (Sep 22, 2012)

128.             distinct

recognizable; marked

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The small plant in Montreal is divided into two distinct operations. 
— New York Times (Dec 31, 2012)

129.             distort

twist and press out of shape

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

But he insists that his work has been intentionally distorted by critics. 
— New York Times (Jan 7, 2013)

130.             distribute

give to several people

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Mr. Guevara said he believed the institute should stop producing films and be limited to, say, renting out sets and distributing movies. 
— New York Times (Jan 4, 2013)

131.             diverse

distinctly dissimilar or unlike

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“They represent what New York City is all about: a truly diverse melting pot.” 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

132.             document

writing that provides information (especially information of an official nature)

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The document showed that the containers originated in Iran and declared the contents to be “building materials.” 
— New York Times (Jan 11, 2013)

133.             domain

territory over which rule or control is exercised

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

He said China’s claims included an area that was “clearly part of the Philippines’ territory and maritime domain.” 
— New York Times (Nov 22, 2012)

134.             dominate

be in control

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The Chinese economy remains dominated by manufacturing and factory overcapacity still exists in some sectors. 
— New York Times (Jan 13, 2013)

135.             draft

any of the various versions in the development of a written work

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Rethinking Those Words for Screen Any writer knows the sinking feeling: This line, this draft, this entire project, is not quite working. 
— New York Times (Jan 2, 2013)

136.             drama

a dramatic work intended for performance by actors on a stage

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

She studied art, music and drama in high school and later attended Compton Community College. 
— New York Times (Jan 3, 2013)

137.             duration

the period of time during which something continues

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The researchers also found that short sleep duration and snoring were each independently associated with a greater likelihood of sleepy driving. 
— New York Times (Jan 4, 2013)

138.             economy

the system of production and distribution and consumption

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The Chinese economy remains dominated by manufacturing and factory overcapacity still exists in some sectors. 
— New York Times (Jan 13, 2013)

139.             element

an artifact that is one of the individual parts of which a composite entity is made up; especially a part that can be separated from or attached to a system

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The importance of employment for former fighters is acknowledged as an important element of keeping them from picking up arms again. 
— New York Times (Jan 9, 2013)

140.             eliminate

terminate, end, or take out

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

School districts have reported eliminating thousands of jobs, increasing class sizes and reducing library services and other programs. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

141.             emerge

come out into view, as from concealment

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

But an emerging labor shortage, particularly of young workers, has changed that picture. 
— New York Times (Jan 13, 2013)

142.             emphasis

special importance or significance

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Instead, Mr. Langston explained, the emphasis is on using existing geriatricians as educators and consultants for the generalist physicians who will actually treat older patients. 
— New York Times (Jan 9, 2013)

143.             empirical

derived from experiment and observation rather than theory

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The precise impact can only be determined by careful analysis unencumbered by dogmatic beliefs not anchored in empirical results. 
— New York Times (Jan 8, 2013)

144.             enable

render capable or able for some task

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

New technologies have raised productivity and profits, while enabling companies to shed workers and slice payroll. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

145.             encounter

a casual or unexpected convergence

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Mr. Reimer also reported that both diesel engines shut off around this time, Mr. Sumwalt said, though he encountered no problems with steering. 
— New York Times (Jan 10, 2013)

146.             enforce

compel to behave in a certain way

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

These rules were strictly enforced using the flight recording equipment they carried. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

147.             enhance

make better or more attractive

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Happily, the field is evolving in ways that may enhance safety. 
— New York Times (Dec 22, 2012)

148.             enormous

extraordinarily large in size or extent or amount or power or degree

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Some exhibits designed by Gallagher & Associates are less enticing, including enormousinteractive video databases. 
— New York Times (Jan 11, 2013)

149.             ensure

make certain of

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The Interior Department remains focused on ensuring safe drilling rather than barring drilling off Alaska’s coast. 
— Washington Post (Jan 8, 2013)

150.             entity

that which is perceived or known or inferred to have its own distinct existence (living or nonliving)

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

He said about half of all companies today were structured as so-called pass-through entities. 
— New York Times (Jan 11, 2013)

151.             environment

the totality of surrounding conditions

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“I would rather him be in a classroom environment,” Ms. Allen said. 
— New York Times (Jan 7, 2013)

152.             equate

consider or describe as similar, equal, or analogous

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Bacon said physical activity was important to good health but might not necessarily equate with weight loss. 
— New York Times (Nov 20, 2012)

153.             equip

provide with (something) usually for a specific purpose

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Some are getting rid of checkout lanes and registers altogether in favor of roaming clerksequipped with mobile devices, for instance. 
— New York Times (Dec 19, 2012)

154.             equivalent

being essentially equal to something

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

And 100 half-time employees are considered equivalent to 50 full-time employees. 
— New York Times (Dec 31, 2012)

155.             erode

become ground down or deteriorate

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“The state’s historical lack of spending has had an eroding effect on the district,” he said. 
— New York Times (Dec 30, 2012)

156.             establish

set up or found

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The most recent one was established by Ford Motors in Mountain View, Calif., in June. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

157.             estate

extensive landed property (especially in the country) retained by the owner for his own use

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Today he earns his living in the real estate market niche known as A.R.V., for “after repair value.” 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

158.             estimate

judge tentatively or form an estimate of (quantities or time)

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

By some estimates, half of the nation’s health care plans are run by companies in the Nashville area. 
— New York Times (Jan 8, 2013)

159.             ethic

the principles of right and wrong that are accepted by an individual or a social group

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Professor Gillers, the legal ethics expert, agreed, saying the ethics rules do not forbid paying for information. 
— New York Times (Jan 5, 2013)

160.             ethnic

denoting or deriving from or distinctive of the ways of living built up by a group of people

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

A vibrant ethnic melting pot, Marseille is also home to an increasing number of contemporary art and avant-garde performances. 
— New York Times (Jan 11, 2013)

161.             evaluate

evaluate or estimate the nature, quality, ability, extent, or significance of

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

On Wednesday, his office released a statement saying the public prosecutor would evaluate the commission’s findings. 
— New York Times (Jan 2, 2013)

162.             eventual

expected to follow in the indefinite future from causes already operating

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

As the U.S. economic recovery gains traction, investors also are trying to factor in an eventual end to the Fed's fiscal stimulus. 
— Wall Street Journal (Jan 8, 2013)

163.             evident

clearly revealed to the mind or the senses or judgment

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

In addition, the report’s loss estimates are somewhat surprising given that the loans it examined were made after the mortgage crisis became evident. 
— New York Times (Dec 12, 2012)

164.             evolve

undergo development or evolution

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“This is an evolving and emerging threat,” he said. 
— New York Times (Jan 10, 2013)

165.             exceed

be superior or better than some standard

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

An earlier review by the commission found that credit card tips exceeded 20 percent in fall 2009. 
— New York Times (Jan 2, 2013)

166.             exclude

prevent from entering; shut out

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The most rigorous Drug Free Sport testing panel excludes drugs like peptide hormones, stimulants, narcotics and many masking agents. 
— New York Times (Jan 5, 2013)

167.             exhibit

to show, make visible or apparent

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Some exhibits designed by Gallagher & Associates are less enticing, including enormous interactive video databases. 
— New York Times (Jan 11, 2013)

168.             expand

make bigger or wider in size, volume, or quantity

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

American economic output has continued to expand at a sluggish pace. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

169.             expert

a person with special knowledge or ability who performs skillfully

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

But even so, such controls have some benefits, public health experts say. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

170.             explicit

precisely and clearly expressed or readily observable; leaving nothing to implication

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

And then there’s the film’s explicit subject matter. 
— New York Times (Jan 13, 2013)

171.             exploit

use or manipulate to one's advantage

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

But their potential in other subject areas is already being exploited. 
— New York Times (Jan 7, 2013)

172.             export

sell or transfer abroad

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Such findings have implications for national export officials. 
— Washington Post (Jan 9, 2013)

173.             expose

to show, make visible or apparent

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Empty picture frames hang on exposed brick walls, blank as the mind. 
— New York Times (Jan 10, 2013)

174.             external

happening or arising or located outside or beyond some limits or especially surface

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“ External demand seems to be holding up better than we had thought,” Mr. Moëc said. 
— New York Times (Jan 8, 2013)

175.             extract

remove, usually with some force or effort; also used in an abstract sense

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Green tea extracts, more richly concentrated with EGCG, may not be much better. 
— New York Times (Dec 24, 2012)

176.             facilitate

make easier

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“We have seen over and over again that states are very eager to facilitate direct investment promotion efforts,” Mr. Riskind said. 
— New York Times (Nov 6, 2012)

177.             factor

anything that contributes causally to a result

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

So other factors, such as genetics, may be more important for human longevity. 
— Washington Post (Dec 31, 2012)

178.             feature

a prominent attribute or aspect of something

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The organic results featured several Nike entries and various shoe retailers, but no comparison shopping sites, at least not on the first page. 
— New York Times (Jan 4, 2013)

179.             federal

characterized by or constituting a form of government in which power is divided between one central and several regional authorities

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Currently, people using the card get only one free withdrawal per deposit of federal funds. 
— Washington Post (Jan 12, 2013)

180.             finance

the commercial activity of providing funds and capital

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Some of the student exchanges are financed by the Erasmus Program, while others rely on joint agreements. 
— New York Times (Jan 13, 2013)

181.             finite

bounded or limited in magnitude or spatial or temporal extent

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

But a broken bone, unlike stretched ligaments, usually heals completely in a finite period of time. 
— New York Times (Sep 3, 2012)

182.             flexible

able to adjust readily to different conditions

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Where screens are concerned, apparently, the future remains flexible. 
— Washington Post (Jan 7, 2013)

183.             fluctuate

move or sway in a rising and falling or wavelike pattern

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

This create a fluctuating magnetic field that generates heat without physical contact. 
— New York Times (Nov 6, 2012)

184.             focus

the concentration of attention or energy on something

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The second half focused on specific 20th-century songs in the Gilbert and Sullivan style. 
— New York Times (Jan 13, 2013)

185.             format

the organization of information according to preset specifications (usually for computer processing)

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

What customers are now seeing reflects changes in the format of Google results. 
— New York Times (Jan 6, 2013)

186.             formula

a representation of a substance using symbols for its constituent elements

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

One former member of the DNA Subcommittee said he was concerned the formula was based on assumptions, not practice. 
— New York Times (Dec 15, 2012)

187.             forthcoming

at ease in talking to others

NOTES:

"Forthcoming" also implies that someone will say something that others might be reluctant to say, or that the context might suggest one would be uncomfortable saying.

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Reflecting on the match Broad outlined the problem clearly enough but was less forthcomingabout the likely solution. 
— The Guardian (Sep 28, 2012)

188.             foundation

education or instruction in the fundamentals of a field of knowledge

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The foundation has grown, supporting visual as well as performing artists and changing its name to the Foundation for Contemporary Arts. 
— New York Times (Dec 20, 2012)

189.             framework

the underlying structure

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The ratings firm said that the unpredictable nature of the policy framework in Europe is weighing on Spain's credit rating. 
— Wall Street Journal (Oct 11, 2012)

190.             function

what something is used for

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Her best works function like brilliant collages, creating meaning through idiosyncratic constellations of references and concepts. 
— New York Times (Jan 11, 2013)

191.             fund

a reserve of money set aside for some purpose

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

A year later, he and other enthusiasts received a state charter to start collecting funds and archival material. 
— New York Times (Jan 11, 2013)

192.             fundamental

serving as an essential component

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“Providing access to the fundamental technology is entirely different,” he said in an e-mail Friday. 
— New York Times (Dec 30, 2012)

193.             furthermore

in addition

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Furthermore, the train in Europe or Asia is likely to have traveled at much higher speed. 
— New York Times (Nov 16, 2012)

194.             gender

the properties that distinguish organisms on the basis of their reproductive roles

NOTES:

The vocabulary.com definitions of gender lack a common academic use of the word in sociology, anthropology, and other social sciences to denote the socially constructed category of gender identity, e.g. what it means to be "male" or "female" and how something in-between is silently categorized as abnormal.

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Thousands marching for gender justice on New Years eve. 
— New York Times (Dec 31, 2012)

195.             generate

bring into existence

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

But China is not particularly interested in sharing much of the wealth the railroad would generate. 
— New York Times (Jan 1, 2013)

196.             generation

a coming into being

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Among them: research showing that boomers are giving their time to community groups at higher rates than past generations. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

197.             globe

an object with a spherical shape

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Some artists have created somewhat darker snow globes. 
— New York Times (Dec 19, 2012)

198.             goal

the state of affairs that a plan is intended to achieve and that (when achieved) terminates behavior intended to achieve it

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“ Goals can be extremely effective, depending on how people set and approach them,” he says. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

199.             grade

a position on a scale of intensity or amount or quality

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

In all, 17,000 students and more than 1,100 teachers would be affected by closings, program changes and new grade configurations. 
— New York Times (Dec 30, 2012)

200.             grant

allow to have

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The change is allowed under a "local option" granted by the church's General Convention, church leaders said. 
— New York Times (Jan 9, 2013)

201.             guarantee

an unconditional commitment that something will happen or that something is true

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

He found his previous job within 30 days, picking up a year’s guaranteed contract work in Hartford. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

202.             guideline

a rule or principle that provides guidance to appropriate behavior

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Hang gliding became safer as technology improved and training guidelines were established. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

203.             hierarchy

a series of ordered groupings of people or things within a system

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Hyenas live in huge social groups called clans that are structured by a “linear dominancehierarchy.” 
— Scientific American (Nov 29, 2012)

204.             highlight

move into the foreground to make more visible or prominent

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

One particularly striking finding in their analysis highlights the power that comes with drawing the maps. 
— New York Times (Dec 14, 2012)

205.             hypothesis

a proposal intended to explain certain facts or observations

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

His hypothesis was neglected for many years because the methodology for detecting such chemical factors in the living embryo was not yet available. 
— Scientific American (Jan 3, 2013)

206.             identical

being the exact same one; not any other:

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The previous models had identical designs that made it easier for bump drafting because the front and rear bumpers lined up squarely. 
— New York Times (Jan 11, 2013)

207.             identify

give the name or identifying characteristics of; refer to by name or some other identifying characteristic property

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The spokeswoman declined to be identified by name, citing company policy. 
— New York Times (Jan 10, 2013)

208.             ideology

an orientation that characterizes the thinking of a group or nation

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Unfortunately, some United States officials are so captured or captivated by the ideology of modern banking that they want to play along. 
— New York Times (Jan 10, 2013)

209.             ignorance

the lack of knowledge or education

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

One thing I felt keenly while reading was the ignorance of even great minds, based on when they lived in history. 
— New York Times (Jun 6, 2012)

210.             illustrate

depict with an illustration

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Investigators have so far not linked any historical pipeline problems to malicious cyberactivity, but software malfunctions have illustrated the potential threat. 
— New York Times (Jan 10, 2013)

211.             image

a visual representation (of an object or scene or person or abstraction) produced on a surface

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Images of a hang glider soaring through the Grand Canyon were offset by reports of dozens of pilots dying each year in accidents. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

212.             immigrate

come into a new country and change residency

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

When Mr. Salomon was 19, he immigrated to the United States; his father worked in a factory in New York City. 
— New York Times (Dec 5, 2012)

213.             impact

have an effect upon

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Whatever the economic impact of low interest rates, they seem to be helping corporate America. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

214.             implement

apply in a manner consistent with its purpose or design

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The big idea: Many business leaders struggle with implementing strategic change. 
— Washington Post (Jan 5, 2013)

215.             implicate

bring into intimate and incriminating connection

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The cases involving big banks, he said, lacked sufficient evidence implicating C.E.Os. 
— New York Times (Jan 9, 2013)

216.             implicit

implied though not directly expressed; inherent in the nature of something

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

But he said there was an implicit understanding that high-ranking officials were off limits. 
— New York Times (Dec 25, 2012)

217.             imply

express or state indirectly

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Foreign exchange reserves have remained largely static for 18 months, implying that the Chinese central bank has made no major intervention in the currency. 
— New York Times (Nov 6, 2012)

218.             impose

compel to behave in a certain way

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Similar restrictions have been imposed by the United Kingdom, Chile and Brazil. 
— New York Times (Jan 11, 2013)

219.             incentive

a positive motivational influence

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

But using generous economic incentives and relying on conventions has been called an outdated economic strategy. 
— New York Times (Jan 8, 2013)

220.             incidence

the relative frequency of occurrence of something

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“The incidences are higher and it’s more threatening,” he said. 
— New York Times (Jun 28, 2012)

221.             incline

lower or bend (the head or upper body), as in a nod or bow

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Corporations are generally inclined to settle potential cases because even being indicted can cripple business. 
— New York Times (Nov 14, 2012)

222.             income

the financial gain (earned or unearned) accruing over a given period of time

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Even if income tax rates are higher later, I think the tax deferral” makes up for that increase. 
— New York Times (Jan 11, 2013)

223.             incorporate

unite or merge with something already in existence

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Clinton said he incorporated both of Obama’s suggestions — “He was right!” exclaimed the former president. 
— Washington Post (Sep 12, 2012)

224.             indicate

indicate a place, direction, person, or thing; either spatially or figuratively

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Instead, he indicated he might have some inside information on who will be. 
— Chicago Tribune (Jan 11, 2013)

225.             individual

being or characteristic of a single thing or person

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“Everybody needs to put individual thoughts behind them,” Smith said. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

226.             induce

cause to do; cause to act in a specified manner

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Ms. Ortega was not in a medically induced coma. 
— New York Times (Oct 27, 2012)

227.             inevitable

incapable of being avoided or prevented

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

But, he said, “In time, as society becomes more comfortable and legal concerns are ironed out, full autonomy will become practical, inevitable and necessary.” 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

228.             infer

conclude by reasoning; in logic

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

From this they inferred that infants comprehend the cartoon character’s perspective, Dr. Endress said. 
— New York Times (Jan 3, 2011)

229.             infrastructure

the basic structure or features of a system or organization

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Mongolia’s vast grasslands have long attracted adventure travelers, particularly those willing to go on horseback, but a limited tourism infrastructure has kept numbers low. 
— New York Times (Jan 11, 2013)

230.             inherent

existing as an essential constituent or characteristic

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

But all predictions based on computer projections have inherent uncertainties. 
— New York Times (Nov 13, 2012)

231.             inhibit

limit the range or extent of

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

However, she said that the respondents might have been inhibited in answering because their interviews were carried out in front of other family members. 
— New York Times (Jan 2, 2013)

232.             initial

occurring at the beginning

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

In fact, Emery still has initial interviews scheduled. 
— Chicago Tribune (Jan 11, 2013)

233.             initiate

set in motion, start an event or prepare the way for

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

In the last half-dozen presidential campaigns, the news media have attempted to bring more accountability by initiating ad watches and fact checks. 
— New York Times (Oct 14, 2012)

234.             injure

cause damage or affect negatively

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Players saw Smith benched two months ago because he admitted he was injured. 
— Washington Post (Jan 14, 2013)

235.             innovate

bring something new to an environment

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

They are really looking for someone to innovate in nutrition and hunger solutions. 
— Washington Post (Nov 25, 2012)

236.             insert

put or introduce into something

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

He said he tried unsuccessfully to insert renovations into Lincoln Center’s master plan, “but basically the program was over.” 
— New York Times (Dec 5, 2012)

237.             insight

clear or deep perception of a situation

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

But he found that being calm, clear and compassionate gave him better insights and better timing.
— New York Times (Jan 5, 2013)

238.             inspect

look over carefully

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Accredited outside auditors inspected the factory on Walmart’s behalf at least twice in 2011, he said. 
— New York Times (Dec 6, 2012)

239.             instance

an item of information that is typical of a class or group

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Research has found, for instance, that Indian mothers tend to breast-feed boys longer than they do girls, Ms. Anderson said. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

240.             institute

set up or lay the groundwork for

NOTES:

There is an additional meaning of "institute" not raised in vocabulary.com, that is, to implement.

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The Electric Power Research Institute has some advice, none of it encouraging. 
— New York Times (Jan 9, 2013)

241.             instruct

impart skills or knowledge to

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

He is not technically an assistant coach, but he helps instruct the quarterbacks. 
— New York Times (Nov 7, 2012)

242.             integral

existing as an essential constituent or characteristic

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

As this season has gone on, it has become more integral in Seattle's offense. 
— New York Times (Jan 2, 2013)

243.             integrate

make into a whole or make part of a whole

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

This mission is complicated by the fact that Moscow’s ruling class is, in fact, already deeplyintegrated into Western Europe. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

244.             integrity

an undivided or unbroken completeness or totality with nothing wanting

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Engineers determined that weaker ones were originally installed, raising concerns about the structure’s integrity. 
— New York Times (Jan 1, 2013)

245.             intelligence

the ability to comprehend; to understand and profit from experience

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

He also noted that to carry out commando raids, the American military needs bases, anintelligence network and arrangements for medical evacuation. 
— New York Times (Jan 8, 2013)

246.             intense

extremely sharp or intense

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“Currently in China people are unusually sensitive to developments like this, and so the reaction has been quite intense,” Mr. Zhan said. 
— New York Times (Jan 6, 2013)

247.             interact

act together or towards others or with others

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

He clearly enjoyed interacting with sports fans of Chicago he respects. 
— Chicago Tribune (Dec 17, 2012)

248.             intermediate

around the middle of a scale of evaluation

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Has also assumed a bigger role in the passing game, primarily at the intermediate levels. 
— New York Times (Nov 7, 2012)

249.             internal

located inward

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The Internal Revenue Service issued guidance to employers to increase withholding from paychecks beginning Tuesday to match new tax rates at every income level. 
— New York Times (Jan 1, 2013)

250.             interpret

make sense of; assign a meaning to

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

But people do interpret and observe religion differently and, as Celtics Coach Doc Rivers noted, a fair number of folks “do work on Christmas.” 
— New York Times (Dec 26, 2012)

251.             interval

the distance between things

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Players who sustained head injuries also received scans at three intervals after the injuries, with researchers using advanced magnetic resonance imaging techniques. 
— New York Times (Nov 30, 2012)

252.             intervene

get involved, so as to alter or hinder an action, or through force or threat of force

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Meanwhile, financial markets remain focused on how the European Central Bank might actually go about intervening in government bond markets. 
— New York Times (Aug 20, 2012)

253.             intrinsic

belonging to a thing by its very nature

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Roughly speaking, some Christian thinkers believe animals have intrinsic rights to be treated well, like people. 
— New York Times (Oct 15, 2011)

254.             investigate

conduct an inquiry or investigation of

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Police detectives are investigating several thefts in at least two precincts that appear to include the same suspects, said Sgt. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

255.             invoke

cite as an authority; resort to

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Yet the concepts invoked are often abstract, requiring reflection and explanation. 
— New York Times (Dec 13, 2012)

256.             involve

contain as a part

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Another United States Attorney’s office could reopen that investigation, several lawyers involved in the case said, although that is unlikely. 
— New York Times (Jan 13, 2013)

257.             isolate

place or set apart

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

That damage would have been reduced by about two-thirds if controllers in Houston isolated the rupture as soon as problems emerged, investigators said. 
— New York Times (Jan 3, 2013)

258.             issue

some situation or event that is thought about

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The big issues that Nokia faces, he said, are “managing efficiently, building great products and changing the way we operate. 
— New York Times (Jan 11, 2013)

259.             journal

a periodical dedicated to a particular subject

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The findings were published online January 10 in the Journal of Breath Research. 
— Scientific American (Jan 11, 2013)

260.             justify

show to be right by providing justification or proof

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Justifying her sentence, she noted that the men were driven by financial motives and difficult family circumstances rather than ideology. 
— New York Times (Jan 5, 2013)

261.             label

a brief description given for purposes of identification

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Ms. Lutz, the Living Essentials spokeswoman, said the bold “No Crash Later” statement on productlabels was followed by a special mark. 
— New York Times (Jan 2, 2013)

262.             layer

single thickness of usually some homogeneous substance

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“If Disney can drive more value from existing infrastructure by layering on technology, that is extremely powerful,” said Mr. Brown of Lo-Q. 
— New York Times (Jan 7, 2013)

263.             lecture

teaching by giving a discourse on some subject (typically to a class)

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

But each year, Mr. Wright gives a lecture on his experiences as a parent of a child with special needs. 
— New York Times (Dec 25, 2012)

264.             legal

established by or founded upon law or official or accepted rules

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

As required by state law, the patient’s legal guardian was notified, along with local law enforcement.
— Washington Post (Jan 10, 2013)

265.             legislate

make laws, bills, etc. or bring into effect by legislation

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

But the recently introduced Lisbon Treaty has widened the scope for Brussels to ask member nations to legislate on criminal matters. 
— New York Times (Dec 8, 2010)

266.             locate

discover the location of; determine the place of; find by searching or examining

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

But no one has ever thought that the fountain might be located beneath a house in Maine. 
— Washington Post (Jan 5, 2013)

267.             maintain

keep in a certain state, position, or activity; e.g., "keep clean"

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Mr. Sprecher indicated that he was willing to maintain two headquarters, ICE's home in Atlanta and the Big Board's center in New York City. 
— New York Times (Dec 21, 2012)

268.             major

greater in number or size or amount

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr. also is meeting separately Thursday with major gun retailers, including Wal-Mart. 
— Washington Post (Jan 11, 2013)

269.             manipulate

influence or control shrewdly or deviously

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

As the financial crisis was heating up, Barclays said it manipulated rates to increase profits and hide its failing financial health. 
— Washington Post (Dec 13, 2012)

270.             manual

of or relating to the hands

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

However, back at the other office, Mr. Tuli did point out an engineer who was translating manualsfor companies assembling DataWind tablets in China. 
— New York Times (Dec 31, 2012)

271.             margin

the boundary line or the area immediately inside the boundary

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The new military spending bill, known as the 2013 National Defense Authorization Act, was passed in both houses of Congress by wide margins. 
— New York Times (Dec 24, 2012)

272.             mature

having reached full natural growth or development

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Coach Mike Smith said Monday they had learned from and been matured by their recent disappointments. 
— New York Times (Jan 8, 2013)

273.             mechanism

device consisting of a piece of machinery; has moving parts that perform some function

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Mr. Kasuri expressed surprise over the government’s failure to install an effective firewallmechanism despite having months to do so. 
— New York Times (Dec 30, 2012)

274.             medium

the surrounding environment

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Witnesses told local news media that the helicopter appeared to have exploded after hitting the ground. 
— New York Times (Jan 9, 2013)

275.             mediate

act between parties with a view to reconciling differences

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

A few violence interrupters were mediating between the gangs' leaders, while the rest worked the crowd, calming people down. 
— New York Times (Dec 26, 2012)

276.             medical

relating to the study or practice of medicine

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

But some critics said that poor and uninsured patients sometimes used the emergency room as their primary source of medical care. 
— New York Times (Jan 11, 2013)

277.             mental

involving the mind or an intellectual process

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Yet Justice Del Giudice, who was scheduled to sentence Mr. Isaac, ordered a mental health examination instead. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

278.             method

a way of doing something, especially a systematic way; implies an orderly logical arrangement (usually in steps)

NOTES:

What's missing in this definition is "the scientific method," or the "Methods" section of a research paper.

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Other schools have also adopted inventive methods to promote graduating in four years. 
— Time (Jan 10, 2013)

279.             migrate

move from one country or region to another and settle there

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Jeffrey Hart is a Briton migrating back and forth between Canada and the United States on work visas, gaining experience in natural building. 
— New York Times (Aug 20, 2012)

280.             minimal

the least possible

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The fighters are operating on a minimal budget, eating just one meal a day, he added. 
— New York Times (Jan 11, 2013)

281.             minimum

the smallest possible quantity

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Employees will be given a minimum 60-day notice before any furlough of longer than 22 days takes place, according to the document. 
— Washington Post (Dec 28, 2012)

282.             minor

inferior in number or size or amount

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

In my next post, we'll look at how seemingly minor details in a transaction, if not handled properly,  can make your life miserable. 
— New York Times (Dec 19, 2012)

283.             mode

how something is done or how it happens

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Altogether, shifting transportation modes would drive up prices, he said, adding, “Rail is not the answer.” 
— New York Times (Dec 24, 2012)

284.             modify

cause to change; make different; cause a transformation

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Riders complained about inaccurate modified schedules on the Web site — a criticism the agency sometimes acknowledged. 
— New York Times (Dec 15, 2012)

285.             monitor

keep tabs on; keep an eye on; keep under surveillance

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

A screen in one corner relayed footage from the closed circuit cameras installed across the office floors, monitoring staff activity. 
— New York Times (Jan 9, 2013)

286.             motive

the psychological feature that arouses an organism to action toward a desired goal; the reason for the action; that which gives purpose and direction to behavior

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

But his prime motive in choosing Google, he said, was online collaboration. 
— New York Times (Dec 26, 2012)

287.             mutual

common to or shared by two or more parties

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Teams are taught four skill sets: leadership, mutual support, situation monitoring and communication. 
— Washington Post (Dec 26, 2012)

288.             negate

make ineffective by counterbalancing the effect of

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

She notes that salad dressing packets typically contain as many as four servings, which cannegate any nutritional value of the greens. 
— Washington Post (Dec 20, 2011)

289.             neutral

having no personal preference

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

As head of state, the queen performs some ceremonial and formal duties related to government but must remain neutral on political matters. 
— New York Times (Dec 19, 2012)

290.             nevertheless

despite anything to the contrary (usually following a concession)

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Nevertheless, Mr. Ostreicher ended up in June 2011 as the only American in Palmasola Prison, an experience he described as “sheer terror.” 
— New York Times (Jan 2, 2013)

291.             nonetheless

despite anything to the contrary (usually following a concession)

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Nonetheless, Mr. Cowen’s illnesses have led to his falling about $8,400 behind in his rent; he could face eviction proceedings beginning next month. 
— New York Times (Dec 26, 2012)

292.             norm

a standard or model or pattern regarded as typical

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

However, let’s take it one step further, beyond social norms. 
— Washington Post (Dec 6, 2012)

293.             normal

conforming with or constituting a norm or standard or level or type or social norm; not abnormal

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“I think this is going to end up like a regular summer weekend, no more busy than normal,” he said. 
— New York Times (Jan 10, 2013)

294.             notion

a general inclusive concept

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The notion that India’s weak manufacturing sector can catch up to China in advanced computer hardware also strikes some experts as far-fetched. 
— New York Times (Dec 30, 2012)

295.             notwithstanding

despite anything to the contrary (usually following a concession)

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The gloomy weather forecast notwithstanding, the day was indeed summery. 
— New York Times (Jun 30, 2012)

296.             nuclear

constituting or like a nucleus

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

A few prominent environmentalists argue that the rapidly heating world cannot make wrenching changes without nuclear power to ease the transition. 
— New York Times (Jan 8, 2013)

297.             objective

the goal intended to be attained (and which is believed to be attainable)

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Mr. Dempsey's stated main objective was to preserve as many Tully's jobs as possible. 
— New York Times (Jan 5, 2013)

298.             obtain

come into possession of

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

A Web site marketing Wegelin's services said, "Neither the Swiss government nor any other government can obtain information about your bank account." 
— New York Times (Jan 4, 2013)

299.             obvious

easily perceived by the senses or grasped by the mind

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Jet lag’s severity depends on several factors, the most obvious being how many time zones you crossed. 
— Washington Post (Jan 1, 2013)

300.             occupy

live (in a certain place)

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Next to it is a lane usually occupied by parked vehicles, and then a traffic lane. 
— New York Times (Dec 29, 2012)

301.             occur

to be found to exist

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

However nothing else occurred, and in a few minutes he had gone back to sleep. 
— New York Times (Jan 10, 2013)

302.             offset

a compensating equivalent

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

That is a particularly weighty question, given the urgent need for tax revenue to offset the ballooning federal budget deficit. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

303.             ongoing

currently happening

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“Discussions with various authorities in relation to Libor setting are ongoing,” an RBS spokeswoman said. 
— Wall Street Journal (Jan 10, 2013)

304.             option

one of a number of things from which only one can be chosen

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“All options are on the table,” said a senior European official who is participating in the talks but was not authorized to speak publicly. 
— New York Times (Jan 10, 2013)

305.             outcome

something that results

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Sure, compound interest has a powerful outcome, but it takes an awfully long time to become fun and exciting. 
— New York Times (Jan 7, 2013)

306.             output

production of a certain amount

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

American economic output has continued to expand at a sluggish pace. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

307.             overall

including everything

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Overall, though, analysts said the industry eased up on promotions such as rebates and low-interest financing. 
— New York Times (Jan 3, 2013)

308.             overlap

extend over and cover a part of

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The building housed a research center run by the national security agency, one of manyoverlapping intelligence agencies. 
— New York Times (Jul 19, 2012)

309.             panel

sheet that forms a distinct (usually flat and rectangular) section or component of something

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

On request, Mr. Singh showed a sample of a touchscreen panel that he said had been made at DataWind's manufacturing unit in Montreal. 
— New York Times (Jan 9, 2013)

310.             paradigm

a standard or typical example

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Even if these new shows end up being remakes of familiar paradigms, more is at stake here. 
— New York Times (Jan 6, 2013)

311.             parallel

being everywhere equidistant and not intersecting

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Increasingly she turned to writing about the recipes she was trying as her interest in cooking deepened in parallel to her relationship. 
— New York Times (Dec 12, 2012)

312.             participate

become a participant; be involved in

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“All options are on the table,” said a senior European official who is participating in the talks but was not authorized to speak publicly. 
— New York Times (Jan 10, 2013)

313.             passive

lacking in energy or will

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

On this night, Ms. Meade basically brought to a character a vulnerability that came across aspassive. 
— New York Times (Dec 7, 2012)

314.             perceive

to become aware of through the senses

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Insurance, like taxes, quantifies the perceived societal cost of an activity. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

315.             period

an amount of time

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“We were a little bit lost last year when he was out for such an extended period of time,” Troy Brouwer said. 
— Washington Post (Jan 11, 2013)

316.             persist

continue to exist

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

While the specific numbers have most likely shifted over time, the basic categories persist. 
— New York Times (Jan 10, 2013)

317.             perspective

a way of regarding situations or topics etc.

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

It is helpful to summarize the important policy effects on the labor market from workers'perspectives in terms of marginal tax rates. 
— New York Times (Jan 9, 2013)

318.             phase

any distinct time period in a sequence of events

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“He’s progressively gotten better in all phases,” Haslett said. 
— Washington Post (Dec 21, 2012)

319.             phenomenon

any state or process known through the senses rather than by intuition or reasoning

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Researchers found that employee turnover slows down considerably as businesses get older and bigger, which could be contributing to the wage phenomenon.

320.             philosophy

a belief (or system of beliefs) accepted as authoritative by some group or school

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

He often coupled common sense with Greek philosophy, which, he wrote, "seemed to astonish the whole journalistic fraternity in New York City." 
— New York Times (Jan 1, 2013)

321.             physical

involving the body as distinguished from the mind or spirit

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Various companies showed off tools that intervened in our physical lives. 
— New York Times (Jan 11, 2013)

322.             policy

a plan of action adopted by an individual or social group

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“Chuck Hagel is out of the mainstream,” Mr. Graham says, “on most issues regarding foreignpolicy.” 
— New York Times (Jan 13, 2013)

323.             portion

something determined in relation to something that includes it

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

A large portion of that is held by a group of hedge funds including York Capital Management, which invests heavily in distressed debt. 
— Chicago Tribune (Dec 17, 2012)

324.             pose

put into a certain place or abstract location

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Pointing out the potential hazards posed by data brokers and the like is part of Mr. Fertik’s M.O. 
— New York Times (Dec 8, 2012)

325.             positive

characterized by or displaying affirmation or acceptance or certainty etc.

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“Call me an optimist, but I see positive indications of the markets moving forward,” he said. 
— New York Times (Jan 10, 2013)

326.             potential

existing in possibility

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Investors fixated last year on so-called tail risks, or potential negative surprises. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

327.             practitioner

someone who practices a learned profession

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“Many practitioners haven’t caught up to the advanced technology yet,” he said. 
— New York Times (Jan 9, 2013)

328.             precede

be earlier in time; go back further

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

There are perils in having publicity precede peer review. 
— New York Times (Jul 29, 2012)

329.             precise

sharply exact or accurate or delimited

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The precise impact can only be determined by careful analysis unencumbered by dogmatic beliefs not anchored in empirical results. 
— New York Times (Jan 8, 2013)

330.             predict

make a prediction about; tell in advance

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Research is why he will never live in Seattle, he said; scientists are predicting a big earthquake someday. 
— New York Times (Jan 4, 2013)

331.             predominant

having superior power and influence

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

According to the World Health Organization, B flus are predominant in China. 
— New York Times (Feb 24, 2012)

332.             preliminary

denoting an action or event preceding or in preparation for something more important; designed to orient or acquaint with a situation before proceeding

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

West Bengal: A preliminary medical examination suggested that a three-year-old girl was raped in Goai village, the Indian Express reported. 
— New York Times (Dec 30, 2012)

333.             presume

take to be the case or to be true; accept without verification or proof

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The 32 remaining passengers are presumed to have drowned. 
— New York Times (Dec 20, 2012)

334.             previous

just preceding something else in time or order

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

He found his previous job within 30 days, picking up a year’s guaranteed contract work in Hartford. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

335.             primary

of first rank or importance or value; direct and immediate rather than secondary

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

But some critics said that poor and uninsured patients sometimes used the emergency room as their primary source of medical care. 
— New York Times (Jan 10, 2013)

336.             prime

used of the first or originating agent

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Acquiring the service would not only give Apple access to prime data but also, as Search Engine Land noted, would complement Apple in other ways. 
— Washington Post (Jan 3, 2013)

337.             principal

most important element

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Among Wall Street's principal concerns about Facebook has been the company's ability to profit as its users increasingly log in on their mobile phones. 
— New York Times (Nov 14, 2012)

338.             principle

a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The business was built on two main principles: outstanding customer service and offering high-quality clothes to help people become accepted into society, relatives said. 
— Chicago Tribune (Dec 31, 2012)

339.             prior

earlier in time

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Mr. Akhtar said that no prior warning or threat had been given to his organization by militants. 
— New York Times (Jan 1, 2013)

340.             priority

status established in order of importance or urgency

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

“When you are running investments, your priority needs to be maximizing return.” 
— Washington Post (Jan 4, 2013)

341.             proceed

move ahead; travel onward in time or space

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

If successful, lawyers said, future proceedings, at least in the pre trial stage, will be open. 
— New York Times (Jan 8, 2013)

342.             process

a particular course of action intended to achieve a result

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Hall of Fame voting is ultimately designed to be a consensus process. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

343.             professional

of or relating to or suitable as a profession

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Mitchell, 30, entered his last fight coming off the longest layoff of his professional career. 
— Washington Post (Jan 10, 2013)

344.             prohibit

command against

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

One student studying preschool education said she was prohibited from quitting her internship and was compelled to work night shifts. 
— New York Times (Dec 26, 2012)

345.             project

a planned undertaking

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

The landscaping project was announced in 2011 but has taken time to advance through public review as officials wrestled with the security question. 
— New York Times (Jan 13, 2013)

346.             promote

contribute to the progress or growth of

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Some rinks installed concrete floors to promote cooling, but others employed newer technologies. 
— New York Times (Jan 4, 2013)

347.             proportion

the relation between things (or parts of things) with respect to their comparative quantity, magnitude, or degree

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Insulin is known to fuel cell growth, and cancer cells consume glucose out of proportion to other nutrients. 
— New York Times (Dec 31, 2012)

348.             prospect

the possibility of future success

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

Nothing to do, no prospects for getting out. 
— New York Times (Jan 12, 2013)

349.             protocol

forms of ceremony and etiquette observed by diplomats and heads of state

EXAMPLE SENTENCE:

But organizations that foster student musicians still mostly insist on standard protocols. 
— New York Times (Dec 31, 2012)

350.             psychology

the science of mental life