English vocabulary in context

If you’re travelling by train, make sure to locate the access road to your platform. Once on board, you can head to the buffet car to grab a bite to eat or relax in your carriage. If you prefer a more luxurious experience, you can book a deluxe compartment with all the amenities.

When travelling by plane, it’s crucial to fasten your seatbelt and listen to the safety instructions provided by the flight attendants. Make sure to locate your flotation device and know where the emergency exits are. If someone’s behaviour is driving you round the bend, try to remain calm and don’t fly into a rage. Sometimes, unexpected situations arise and plans may need to be diverted. It’s important to keep an open mind and go with the flow.

2. Match the words with the definitions.

3. Complete the sentences with the words from the previous exercise.

1. All the best explorers have _____________________ minds and are naturally curious.

2. Anna was able to _____________________ the bad weather; rain never bothered her.

3. Becky is a passionate traveller with _____________________ for adventure and new challenges.

4. Boats are always fitted with _____________________ such as life vests, in case of an accident at sea.

5. Ellen is so annoying! She really _____________________ me round the bend!

6. Emily always finds _____________________ solutions to problems that are very creative.

7. Hannah got offended by his comment and _____________________ suddenly.

8. Mike parked his bike by the curb and _____________________ a chain round the wheel and a railing to make it secure.

9. Terry walked away from the hotel and _____________________ out into the woods to have a look around.

10. The boat _____________________ in the current until the captain turned on the engine.

11. The company cleared land to build a new facility in the countryside _____________________ the environment.

12. The complex has an _____________________ to the industrial estate; it’s the only way in or out.

13. The department was made possible by the _____________________ of two different government agencies.

14. The dishes in the new Indian restaurant are really _____________________; I’ve never seen such interesting ingredients!

15. The first class _____________________ are at the front of the train.

16. The intercity train has a _____________________ where you can get food and drink.

17. The police _____________________ traffic away from the city centre due to an accident that had blocked the road.

18. My friend likes _____________________ and never makes plans in advance.

19. The sleeper _____________________ has separate enclosed _____________________ with their own beds.

20. The _____________________ package is a luxury option that includes the very best facilities in the hotel.

Key

Match the words with the definitions.

Complete the sentences with the words from the previous exercise.

1. All the best explorers have inquisitive minds and are naturally curious.

2. Anna was able to tolerate the bad weather; rain never bothered her.

3. Becky is a passionate traveller with a thirst for adventure and new challenges.

4. Boats are always fitted with flotation devices such as life vests, in case of an accident at sea.

5. Ellen is so annoying! She really drives me round the bend!

6. Emily always finds ingenious solutions to problems that are very creative.

7. Hannah got offended by his comment and flew into a rage suddenly.

8. Mike parked his bike by the curb and fastened a chain round the wheel and a railing to make it secure.

9. Terry walked away from the hotel and wandered out into the woods to have a look around.

10. The boat drifted in the current until the captain turned on the engine.

11. The company cleared land to build a new facility in the countryside to the detriment of the environment.

12. The complex has an access road to the industrial estate; it’s the only way in or out.

13. The department was made possible by the unification of two different government agencies.

14. The dishes in the new Indian restaurant are really exotic; I’ve never seen such interesting ingredients!

15. The first class carriages are at the front of the train.

16. The intercity train has a buffet car where you can get food and drink.

17. The police diverted traffic away from the city centre due to an accident that had blocked the road.

18. My friend likes to go with the flow and never makes plans in advance.

19. The sleeper carriage has separate enclosed compartments with their own beds.

20. The deluxe package is a luxury option that includes the very best facilities in the hotel.

Unit 16

1. Read the text and try to figure out the meaning of the highlighted words.

In today’s world, it is important to keep up with the latest trends and advancements. Companies are constantly striving to make their mark by introducing new and groundbreaking products or services. This often requires a lot of brainstorming and hard work, but the end result can be very rewarding.

One example of this is the fusion of traditional bricks-and-mortar stores with cutting-edge technology. This brainchild has led to a customised shopping experience that appeals to both young and old customers.

However, not all companies are able to keep up with the latest trends and may find themselves in a predicament. This could lead to stagnation and possibly even layoffs. When companies face such challenges, they may consider a merger with another company to bolster their position in the market. This could also involve a refurbishment of their existing infrastructure to stay competitive. An audit of the company’s finances and resources may also be necessary to ensure that they are on the right track.

However, not everyone may appreciate these changes. Some employees may express displeasure at the prospect of a merger or layoff, while others may simply feel incomprehension towards the new direction of the company. It is important for management to communicate effectively and address any concerns that arise during these times of change.

Despite the challenges, companies must continue to make strides and embrace new ideas in order to stay relevant in today’s fast-paced world. By doing so, they can achieve success and earn the appreciation of their customers and stakeholders alike.

2. Match the words with the definitions.

3. Complete the sentences with the words from the previous exercise.

1. The new scheme is the firm’s latest _____________________.

2. There was widespread _____________________ of Martin’s absence in the office.

3. The _____________________ software was tailor-made so students can choose what areas they want to focus on.

4. The headmaster showed his _____________________ of Ron’s predicament by not punishing him too harshly.

5. The firm made great progress and massive _____________________ in expanding the company to foreign markets.

6. The director was extremely annoyed and expressed his _____________________ at the disrespect he was shown.

7. The director supported the _____________________ of the two corporations.

8. The company went through a period of _____________________, where no new products were developed.

9. The company is known for its innovative and _____________________ work.

10. In order to remain _____________________ in today’s market, companies must constantly innovate and keep up with the latest trends and technologies.

11. Mr Smith sympathised with Bob’s _____________________; it was a difficult situation.

12. Mr Jones lost his job after being _____________________ by the company.

13. Martin would _____________________ do more overtime if the rewards for doing so were better.

14. It’s expected that the writer’s _____________________ of reality and fantasy in his new novel will earn him the literary acclaim he deserves.

15. The government provided aid to _____________________ the economy during the recession.

16. It is essential to examine the interests of all _____________________ before implementing a new policy or strategy.

17. Hopefully, the _____________________ of our office, as well as the other renovations, will be complete within a month.

18. During the _____________________, the accountant thoroughly inspected the company’s financial procedures.

19. Certain schools can successfully combine _____________________ methods and advanced technology with traditional learning.

20. Businesses tend to set up _____________________ companies with actual physical addresses, rather than setting up only online ones.

Key

Match the words with the definitions.

Complete the sentences with the words from the previous exercise.

1. The new scheme is the firm’s latest brainchild.

2. There was widespread incomprehension of Martin’s absence in the office.

3. The customised software was tailor-made so students can choose what areas they want to focus on.

4. The headmaster showed his appreciation of Ron’s predicament by not punishing him too harshly.

5. The firm made great progress and massive strides in expanding the company to foreign markets.

6. The director was extremely annoyed and expressed his displeasure at the disrespect he was shown.

7. The director supported the merger of the two corporations.

8. The company went through a period of stagnation, where no new products were developed.

9. The company is known for its innovative and groundbreaking work.

10. In order to remain competitive in today’s market, companies must constantly innovate and keep up with the latest trends and technologies.

11. Mr Smith sympathised with Bob’s predicament; it was a difficult situation.

12. Mr Jones lost his job after being laid off by the company.

13. Martin would be inclined to do more overtime if the rewards for doing so were better.

14. It’s expected that the writer’s fusion of reality and fantasy in his new novel will earn him the literary acclaim he deserves.

15. The government provided aid to bolster the economy during the recession.

16. It is essential to examine the interests of all stakeholders before implementing a new policy or strategy.

17. Hopefully, the refurbishment of our office, as well as the other renovations, will be complete within a month.

18. During the audit, the accountant thoroughly inspected the company’s financial procedures.

19. Certain schools can successfully combine cutting-edge methods and advanced technology with traditional learning.

20. Businesses tend to set up bricks-and-mortar companies with actual physical addresses, rather than setting up only online ones.

Unit 17

1. Read the text and try to figure out the meaning of the highlighted words.

In the world of business, it is common for entrepreneurs to branch out and start a new business venture. However, this can be a risky escapade that requires careful planning and consideration. Given that there are no guarantees in business, it is important to pace yourself and not rush into anything without proper research and preparation.

When starting a new business venture, it is important to have a solid infrastructure in place. This includes everything from your physical office space to your technology and equipment. On the assumption that you have all of these things in order, you can focus on growing your business and achieving your goals.

Despite the best efforts of entrepreneurs, sometimes things don’t go according to plan. In spite of your hard work, you may find that your business is struggling and your efforts are in vain. When this happens, it is important to keep trying, but also to be willing to make tough decisions and change direction if necessary.

One of the biggest challenges in business is dealing with contradictory information. It can be difficult to know who to trust and which sources to rely on. In view of this, it is important to have a fluid approach and be open to changing your plans if new information arises.

I’ll give you that starting a business can be a futile effort if you don’t have the right mindset and approach. However, with careful planning, research, and a willingness to take risks, put in the effort and stay committed to your goals, you can achieve great things in the business world.

2. Match the words with the definitions.

3. Complete the sentences with the words from the previous exercise.

1. They rescheduled the appointment _____________________ the fact that the set venue was unavailable.

2. _____________________, the research you presented is impressive, but it doesn’t necessarily prove your point.

3. The trip to Paris proved to be an exciting _____________________.

4. If you _____________________ to learn a new language, you’ll be able to travel the world and communicate with people from different cultures.

5. The director embarked on a new _____________________ by setting up a new company.

6. The company decided to make some changes to certain features of its _____________________, such as its HR department.

7. The business soon _____________________ to different areas of the industry.

8. We are _____________________ providing the highest level of service anywhere.

9. To achieve success, you must _____________________ your goals and work diligently towards achieving them.

10. Michael suggested _____________________ at the beginning of the project so that we wouldn’t be exhausted at the end.

11. Justin submitted his business proposal _____________________ he could apply for additional funding.

12. The success of this project _____________________ everyone making an effort.

13. _____________________ the fact that Charlie is a novice at computer games, he is quite a fast learner.

14. Even though the staff opposed the merger, nobody dared to _____________________ the director’s final decision to go ahead with it.

15. The organisation made a _____________________ attempt to increase profits.

16. In a _____________________ situation, it’s important to stay calm and composed in order to make rational decisions.

17. Harold waited _____________________ for a reply to his job application; and to his disappointment, someone else got the job.

18. _____________________ Alfred is more experienced, the company assigned the new project to him rather than to Mary.

19. Elon Musk is a highly successful _____________________ who co-founded companies such as Tesla and SpaceX.

20. A special test was used to judge candidates’ _____________________ intelligence by assessing their ability to reason.

Key

Match the words with the definitions.

Complete the sentences with the words from the previous exercise.

1. They rescheduled the appointment in view of the fact that the set venue was unavailable.

2. I’ll give you that, the research you presented is impressive, but it doesn’t necessarily prove your point.

3. The trip to Paris proved to be an exciting escapade.

4. If you put in the effort to learn a new language, you’ll be able to travel the world and communicate with people from different cultures.

5. The director embarked on a new business venture by setting up a new company.

6. The company decided to make some changes to certain features of its infrastructure, such as its HR department.

7. The business soon branched out to different areas of the industry.

8. We are commited to providing the highest level of service anywhere

9. To achieve success, you must focus on your goals and work diligently towards achieving them.

10. Michael suggested pacing ourselves at the beginning of the project so that we wouldn’t be exhausted at the end.

11. Justin submitted his business proposal on the assumption that he could apply for additional funding.

12. The success of this project relies on everyone making an effort.

13. In spite of the fact that Charlie is a novice at computer games, he is quite a fast learner.

14. Even though the staff opposed the merger, nobody dared to contradict the director’s final decision to go ahead with it.

15. The organisation made a futile attempt to increase profits.

16. In a tough situation, it’s important to stay calm and composed in order to make rational decisions.

17. Harold waited in vain for a reply to his job application; and to his disappointment, someone else got the job.

18. Given that Alfred is more experienced, the company assigned the new project to him rather than to Mary.

19. Elon Musk is a highly successful entrepreneur who co-founded companies such as Tesla and SpaceX.

20. A special test was used to judge candidates’ fluid intelligence by assessing their ability to reason.

Unit 18

1. Read the text and try to figure out the meaning of the highlighted words.

Having a hobby or a pursuit is indispensable for many people. It is a way to relax, unwind and forget about the rush of everyday life. Some people even say that it is a way to propagate their interests and transmit them to others.

There are many different hobbies and pursuits out there, from sports like running or cycling, to more creative activities like painting or writing. Psychometric tests have shown that some people are naturally drawn to certain hobbies based on their personality traits. For example, someone who is detail-oriented might enjoy cultivating a garden or doing puzzles, while someone who is more outgoing might enjoy going on a trip or trying out new experiences.

One thing to keep in mind when pursuing a hobby is to not take it too seriously. While it can be fun to race against others or try to be the best at something, it is important to remember that the main goal is to have fun and enjoy oneself.

Finding the time to pursue our hobbies can be a whale of a job. Sometimes we have to burn the midnight oil to fit them into our busy schedules. However, the benefits of indulging in our passions are limitless. We become happier, more relaxed, and better equipped to handle the stresses of daily life.

2. Match the words with the definitions.

3. Complete the sentences with the words from the previous exercise.

1. After a long day of work, I like to _____________________ by taking a hot bath and listening to calming music.

2. She was always _____________________ to the arts, so she pursued a degree in fine arts.

3. It’s important to _____________________ the potential risks involved before making a decision.

4. As a _____________________ person, I always make sure to double-check my work before submitting it.

5. _____________________ such as painting are popular hobbies.

6. _____________________ testing is used to examine workers’ intelligence and personality traits.

7. Once again, John is _____________________ working all night in order to finish his report.

8. Mr Richard was impressed and congratulated David on _____________________ that he had done on the new project.

9. Mobile phones have become indispensable to most people, and users often cannot do _____________________ them.

10. Being _____________________ has its advantages, as it allows me to easily engage with new people and form connections.

11. The new device is used to electronically _____________________ information to all departments.

12. The organisation works hard to effectively _____________________ and spread its ideas to its audience.

13. The CEO must be able to _____________________ high-pressure situations and make difficult decisions on a daily basis.

14. Some of the most important _____________________ for a successful leader include effective communication, strategic thinking, and resilience.

15. It’s always good to _____________________ new recipes when cooking, even if they’re not your usual go-to dishes.

16. Andrew _____________________ through the crowded street in an attempt to go as fast as he could to the meeting.

17. Amy is really tired as Mr Giles is _____________________ her to finish the project quickly by the end of the week.

18. While it’s important to take our work seriously, it’s equally crucial to _____________________ and enjoy the little moments in life.

19. Successful time management requires careful planning and sticking to _____________________ – even when things get busy.

20. Every now and then, it’s essential to _____________________ self-care practices such as meditation, yoga, or simply taking yourself out for a nice meal.

Key

Match the words with the definitions.

Complete the sentences with the words from the previous exercise.