Mastering Academic TOEFL Vocabulary

Leave a Comment / General TOEFL Advice / By Michael Buckhoff

Introduction

Mastering Academic TOEFL Vocabulary: To excel in the TOEFL exam, it’s crucial to have a strong command of academic vocabulary. This blog post introduces 100 academic vocabulary words that will help you summarize reading and listening passages effectively, both orally and in writing. Each word is presented with its definition, phonetic pronunciation, synonyms, antonyms, parts of speech, and an example sentence. Additionally, two quizzes will test your understanding and usage of these words.

Vocabulary List: Mastering Academic TOEFL Vocabulary:

Abandon $əˈ b æ n d ə n$ (v)
- Definition: To give up completely.
- Synonyms: Forsake, desert
- Antonyms: Retain, keep
- Sentence: The researchers had to abandon the experiment due to unexpected results.
Abate $əˈ b e ɪ t$ (v)
- Definition: To decrease in intensity or amount.
- Synonyms: Subside, lessen
- Antonyms: Increase, intensify
- Sentence: The professor waited for the noise to abate before continuing his lecture.
Aberration $ˌæ b əˈ re ɪʃə n$ (n)
- Definition: A deviation from what is normal or expected.
- Synonyms: Anomaly, deviation
- Antonyms: Norm, standard
- Sentence: The recent temperature spike is an aberration from the usual climate patterns.
Abhor $ə b ˈ h ɔ r$ (v) Mastering Academic TOEFL Vocabulary:
- Definition: To regard with disgust and hatred.
- Synonyms: Detest, loathe
- Antonyms: Admire, love
- Sentence: Many people abhor the idea of animal testing in scientific research.
Abstain $ə b ˈ s t e ɪ n$ (v)
- Definition: To refrain from doing something by choice.
- Synonyms: Refrain, withhold
- Antonyms: Indulge, partake
- Sentence: The committee members decided to abstain from voting on the controversial issue.
Accentuate $ə k ˈ s ɛ n t ʃ u e ɪ t$ (v)
- Definition: To make more noticeable or prominent.
- Synonyms: Highlight, emphasize
- Antonyms: Diminish, downplay
- Sentence: The speaker used visual aids to accentuate key points in his presentation.
Acclaim $əˈ k l e ɪ m$ (v)
- Definition: To praise enthusiastically and publicly.
- Synonyms: Applaud, commend
- Antonyms: Criticize, denounce
- Sentence: The novel was acclaimed by critics for its compelling narrative.
Accumulate $əˈ kj u ː mj ə l e ɪ t$ (v)
- Definition: To gather or collect, often in gradual degrees.
- Synonyms: Amass, gather
- Antonyms: Disperse, dissipate
- Sentence: Over the years, she managed to accumulate a vast collection of rare books.
Acquiesce $ˌæ k w i ˈɛ s$ (v)
- Definition: To accept something reluctantly but without protest.
- Synonyms: Comply, yield
- Antonyms: Resist, oppose
- Sentence: Despite his initial reluctance, he eventually acquiesced to the committee’s decision.
Adept $əˈ d ɛ pt$ (adj) Mastering Academic TOEFL Vocabulary:
- Definition: Highly skilled or proficient in a particular area.
- Synonyms: Skilled, proficient
- Antonyms: Inept, inexperienced
- Sentence: She is adept at using statistical software for her research analysis.
Adhere $ə d ˈ h ɪə r$ (v)
- Definition: To stick firmly to a surface or a plan.
- Synonyms: Cling, follow
- Antonyms: Detach, deviate
- Sentence: The scientist adhered to the strict guidelines of the experiment.
Admonish $ə d ˈ m ɒ n ɪʃ$ (v)
- Definition: To warn or reprimand someone firmly.
- Synonyms: Reprimand, caution
- Antonyms: Praise, commend
- Sentence: The teacher admonished the students for their lack of attention in class.
Adverse $ˈæ d v ɜ rs$ (adj)
- Definition: Preventing success or development; harmful.
- Synonyms: Unfavorable, detrimental
- Antonyms: Favorable, beneficial
- Sentence: The project faced adverse conditions that hindered its progress.
Advocate $ˈæ d v ə k e ɪ t$ (v)
- Definition: To publicly support or recommend.
- Synonyms: Support, endorse
- Antonyms: Oppose, criticize
- Sentence: She advocates for equal rights and opportunities for all individuals.
Aesthetic $ɛ s ˈ θ ɛ t ɪ k$ (adj)
- Definition: Concerned with beauty or the appreciation of beauty.
- Synonyms: Artistic, visually pleasing
- Antonyms: Unattractive, displeasing
- Sentence: The new building is admired for its aesthetic appeal.
Affable $ˈæ f ə b ə l$ (adj)
- Definition: Friendly, good-natured, or easy to talk to.
- Synonyms: Friendly, amiable
- Antonyms: Unfriendly, unsociable
- Sentence: His affable nature made him popular among his peers.
Alleviate $əˈ l i ː v i e ɪ t$ (v)
- Definition: To make suffering, deficiency, or a problem less severe.
- Synonyms: Relieve, mitigate
- Antonyms: Aggravate, intensify
- Sentence: The medication helped to alleviate the patient’s pain.
Allude $əˈ l u d$ (v)
- Definition: To refer to indirectly.
- Synonyms: Hint, suggest
- Antonyms: Declare, state
- Sentence: The author alludes to several classical works in his novel.
Alter $ˈɔ lt ə r$ (v)
- Definition: To change or modify.
- Synonyms: Modify, adjust
- Antonyms: Preserve, maintain
- Sentence: The plan was altered to accommodate the new schedule.
Ambiguous $æ m ˈ b ɪɡ j u ə s$ (adj)
- Definition: Open to more than one interpretation; not having one obvious meaning.
- Synonyms: Vague, unclear
- Antonyms: Clear, explicit
- Sentence: The ambiguous instructions confused many of the participants.
Amend $əˈ m ɛ n d$ (v)
- Definition: To make changes to a document, law, statement, etc., in order to improve it.
- Synonyms: Modify, revise
- Antonyms: Worsen, spoil
- Sentence: The committee decided to amend the proposal to include additional funding.
Anomaly $əˈ n ɒ m ə l i$ (n)
- Definition: Something that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected.
- Synonyms: Aberration, irregularity
- Antonyms: Norm, regularity
- Sentence: The anomaly in the data set prompted further investigation.
Antagonize $æ n ˈ t æɡəˌ na ɪ z$ (v)
- Definition: To cause someone to become hostile.
- Synonyms: Provoke, irritate
- Antonyms: Pacify, appease
- Sentence: His remarks antagonized many members of the audience.
Antipathy $æ n ˈ t ɪ p ə θ i$ (n)
- Definition: A deep-seated feeling of aversion.
- Synonyms: Hostility, aversion
- Antonyms: Affection, sympathy
- Sentence: There is a strong antipathy between the two rival teams.
Apathy $ˈæ p ə θ i$ (n)
- Definition: Lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern.
- Synonyms: Indifference, lethargy
- Antonyms: Interest, enthusiasm
- Sentence: The student’s apathy towards his studies was concerning.
Apparent $əˈ p æ r ə n t$ (adj)
- Definition: Clearly visible or understood; obvious.
- Synonyms: Evident, clear
- Antonyms: Obscure, hidden
- Sentence: It was apparent that the project would not be completed on time.
Arbitrary $ˈɑ r b ɪˌ t r ɛ r i$ (adj)
- Definition: Based on random choice or personal whim, rather than any reason or system.
- Synonyms: Random, capricious
- Antonyms: Systematic, logical
- Sentence: The decision to choose the winner seemed arbitrary.
Arduous $ˈɑ r d ʒ u ə s$ (adj)
- Definition: Involving or requiring strenuous effort; difficult and tiring.
- Synonyms: Laborious, strenuous
- Antonyms: Easy, effortless
- Sentence: Climbing the mountain was an arduous task.
Ascertain $ˌæ s ə r ˈ t e ɪ n$ (v)
- Definition: To find out for certain.
- Synonyms: Determine, discover
- Antonyms: Assume, guess
- Sentence: The investigator attempted to ascertain the cause of the accident.
Aspire $əˈ s p a ɪə r$ (v) Mastering Academic TOEFL Vocabulary
- Definition: To direct one’s hopes or ambitions towards achieving something.
- Synonyms: Aim, strive
- Antonyms: Settle, languish
- Sentence: She aspires to become a renowned scientist.
Assert $əˈ s ɜ r t$ (v)
- Definition: To state a fact or belief confidently and forcefully.
- Synonyms: Declare, proclaim
- Antonyms: Deny, refute
- Sentence: The speaker asserted his opinion with confidence.
Assess $əˈ s ɛ s$ (v)
- Definition: To evaluate or estimate the nature, ability, or quality of.
- Synonyms: Evaluate, judge
- Antonyms: Neglect, ignore
- Sentence: The teacher will assess the students’ progress at the end of the term.
Attain $əˈ t e ɪ n$ (v)
- Definition: To succeed in achieving something that one has worked for.
- Synonyms: Achieve, accomplish
- Antonyms: Fail, miss
- Sentence: She attained her goal of graduating with honors.
Augment $ɔɡˈ m ɛ n t$ (v)
- Definition: To make something greater by adding to it; increase.
- Synonyms: Increase, enlarge
- Antonyms: Decrease, diminish
- Sentence: The company plans to augment its workforce to meet the new demands.
Austere $ɔˈ s t ɪ r$ (adj)
- Definition: Severe or strict in manner, attitude, or appearance.
- Synonyms: Stern, strict
- Antonyms: Indulgent, lenient
- Sentence: The austere teacher maintained high standards in the classroom.
Avert $əˈ v ɜ r t$ (v)
- Definition: To turn away (one’s eyes or thoughts); to prevent.
- Synonyms: Prevent, avoid
- Antonyms: Allow, encourage
- Sentence: She averted her eyes from the gruesome scene.
Benevolent $b əˈ n ɛ v ə l ə n t$ (adj)
- Definition: Well-meaning and kindly.
- Synonyms: Kind, charitable
- Antonyms: Malevolent, cruel
- Sentence: The benevolent organization provides support to those in need.
Benign $b əˈ na ɪ n$ (adj)
- Definition: Gentle and kind; not harmful.
- Synonyms: Gentle, harmless
- Antonyms: Malignant, harmful
- Sentence: The benign tumor posed no threat to her health.
Bolster $ˈ b o ʊ l s t ə r$ (v)
- Definition: To support or strengthen.
- Synonyms: Support, reinforce
- Antonyms: Undermine, weaken
- Sentence: The evidence bolstered his argument significantly.
Buoyant $ˈ b ɔɪə n t$ (adj) Mastering Academic TOEFL Vocabulary:
- Definition: Able to float; cheerful and optimistic.
- Synonyms: Lighthearted, lively
- Antonyms: Downcast, gloomy
- Sentence: Her buoyant personality made her popular at social gatherings.
Candid $ˈ k æ n d ɪ d$ (adj)
- Definition: Truthful and straightforward.
- Synonyms: Frank, honest
- Antonyms: Guarded, evasive
- Sentence: His candid remarks were appreciated by the audience.
Capacious $k əˈ p e ɪʃə s$ (adj)
- Definition: Having a lot of space inside; roomy.
- Synonyms: Spacious, large
- Antonyms: Cramped, small
- Sentence: The capacious hall can accommodate hundreds of guests.
Capitulate $k əˈ p ɪ t ʃʊˌ l e ɪ t$ (v)
- Definition: To cease to resist an opponent or an unwelcome demand; surrender.
- Synonyms: Surrender, yield
- Antonyms: Resist, defy
- Sentence: The army was forced to capitulate after a long siege.
Cathartic $k əˈ θ ɑ r t ɪ k$ (adj)
- Definition: Providing psychological relief through the open expression of strong emotions.
- Synonyms: Purging, cleansing
- Antonyms: Repressive, suppressive
- Sentence: The tragedy provided a cathartic experience for the audience.
Censure $ˈ s ɛ n ʃə r$ (v)
- Definition: To express severe disapproval of (someone or something), typically in a formal statement.
- Synonyms: Criticize, reprimand
- Antonyms: Praise, commend
- Sentence: The senator was censured for his inappropriate behavior.
Cite $s a ɪ t$ (v)
- Definition: To quote (a passage, book, or author) as evidence for an argument or statement.
- Synonyms: Quote, mention
- Antonyms: Ignore, overlook
- Sentence: The lawyer cited several precedents to support her case.
Coalesce $ˌ k o ʊəˈ l ɛ s$ (v)
- Definition: To come together to form one mass or whole.
- Synonyms: Unite, merge
- Antonyms: Separate, divide
- Sentence: The various factions coalesced to form a united front.
Cogent $ˈ k o ʊ d ʒə n t$ (adj)
- Definition: Clear, logical, and convincing.
- Synonyms: Compelling, persuasive
- Antonyms: Unconvincing, weak
- Sentence: The lawyer presented a cogent argument that swayed the jury.
Colloquial $k əˈ l o ʊ k w i ə l$ (adj)
- Definition: Used in ordinary or familiar conversation; not formal or literary.
- Synonyms: Informal, conversational
- Antonyms: Formal, literary
- Sentence: His colloquial speech made him relatable to the audience.
Complacent $k ə m ˈ pl e ɪ s ə n t$ (adj) Mastering Academic TOEFL Vocabulary:
- Definition: Showing smug or uncritical satisfaction with oneself or one’s achievements.
- Synonyms: Self-satisfied, smug
- Antonyms: Dissatisfied, humble
- Sentence: Despite his success, he remained complacent and did not seek further improvement.
Concede $k ə n ˈ s i d$ (v)
- Definition: To admit that something is true or valid after first denying or resisting it.
- Synonyms: Admit, acknowledge
- Antonyms: Deny, contest
- Sentence: The politician conceded defeat after the election results were announced.
Concise $k ə n ˈ s a ɪ s$ (adj)
- Definition: Giving a lot of information clearly and in a few words; brief but comprehensive.
- Synonyms: Brief, succinct
- Antonyms: Lengthy, verbose
- Sentence: Her concise summary covered all the important points of the meeting.
Concur $k ə n ˈ k ɜ r$ (v)
- Definition: To be of the same opinion; to agree.
- Synonyms: Agree, coincide
- Antonyms: Disagree, dissent
- Sentence: The committee members concurred with the proposed plan.
Condone $k ə n ˈ d o ʊ n$ (v)
- Definition: To accept and allow (behavior that is considered morally wrong or offensive) to continue.
- Synonyms: Overlook, excuse
- Antonyms: Condemn, denounce
- Sentence: The school does not condone bullying in any form.
Conform $k ə n ˈ f ɔ r m$ (v)
- Definition: To comply with rules, standards, or laws.
- Synonyms: Comply, adhere
- Antonyms: Defy, rebel
- Sentence: The students were required to conform to the school’s dress code.
Conjecture $k ə n ˈ d ʒɛ k t ʃə r$ (n)
- Definition: An opinion or conclusion formed on the basis of incomplete information.
- Synonyms: Guess, speculation
- Antonyms: Fact, certainty
- Sentence: His theory was based on pure conjecture rather than evidence.
Consensus $k ə n ˈ s ɛ n s ə s$ (n)
- Definition: General agreement.
- Synonyms: Agreement, accord
- Antonyms: Disagreement, discord
- Sentence: The group reached a consensus on the new policy after much discussion.
Consolidate $k ə n ˈ s ɒ l ɪˌ d e ɪ t$ (v)
- Definition: To make something physically stronger or more solid; to combine a number of things into a single more effective whole.
- Synonyms: Strengthen, unify
- Antonyms: Separate, weaken
- Sentence: The company decided to consolidate its resources to increase efficiency.
Conspicuous $k ə n ˈ s p ɪ kj u ə s$ (adj)
- Definition: Standing out so as to be clearly visible.
- Synonyms: Noticeable, prominent
- Antonyms: Inconspicuous, hidden
- Sentence: Her bright red coat made her conspicuous in the crowd.
Contemplate $ˈ k ɒ n t ə m ˌ pl e ɪ t$ (v) Mastering Academic TOEFL Vocabulary:
- Definition: To look thoughtfully for a long time; to think deeply and at length.
- Synonyms: Consider, ponder
- Antonyms: Ignore, disregard
- Sentence: He sat quietly to contemplate the future of his career.
Contentious $k ə n ˈ t ɛ n ʃə s$ (adj)
- Definition: Causing or likely to cause an argument; controversial.
- Synonyms: Controversial, disputable
- Antonyms: Uncontroversial, agreeable
- Sentence: The contentious issue sparked heated debates among the panelists.
Convene $k ə n ˈ v in$ (v)
- Definition: To come or bring together for a meeting or activity; assemble.
- Synonyms: Assemble, gather
- Antonyms: Disperse, scatter
- Sentence: The board of directors will convene next week to discuss the proposal.
Convoluted $ˈ k ɒ n v əˌ l u t ɪ d$ (adj)
- Definition: Extremely complex and difficult to follow.
- Synonyms: Complex, intricate
- Antonyms: Simple, straightforward
- Sentence: The instructions were so convoluted that no one could understand them.
Copious $ˈ k o ʊ p i ə s$ (adj)
- Definition: Abundant in supply or quantity.
- Synonyms: Plentiful, abundant
- Antonyms: Scarce, sparse
- Sentence: She took copious notes during the lecture.
Corroborate $k əˈ r ɒ b əˌ re ɪ t$ (v)
- Definition: To confirm or give support to (a statement, theory, or finding).
- Synonyms: Confirm, verify
- Antonyms: Disprove, refute
- Sentence: The witness’s testimony corroborated the evidence presented in court.
Curtail $k ə r ˈ t e ɪ l$ (v)
- Definition: To reduce in extent or quantity; to impose a restriction on.
- Synonyms: Reduce, limit
- Antonyms: Extend, increase
- Sentence: The government decided to curtail public spending.
Daunting $ˈ d ɔ n t ɪ ŋ$ (adj)
- Definition: Seeming difficult to deal with in anticipation; intimidating.
- Synonyms: Intimidating, formidable
- Antonyms: Encouraging, comforting
- Sentence: The task seemed daunting at first, but they managed to complete it successfully.
Debilitate $d ɪˈ b ɪ l ɪˌ t e ɪ t$ (v)
- Definition: To make someone weak and infirm.
- Synonyms: Weaken, enfeeble
- Antonyms: Strengthen, invigorate
- Sentence: The illness debilitated him, leaving him bedridden for weeks.
Defer $d ɪˈ f ɜ r$ (v)
- Definition: To put off (an action or event) to a later time; to postpone.
- Synonyms: Postpone, delay
- Antonyms: Advance, hasten
- Sentence: They decided to defer the decision until the next meeting.
Deleterious $ˌ d ɛ l ɪˈ t ɪ r i ə s$ (adj) Mastering Academic TOEFL Vocabulary:
- Definition: Causing harm or damage.
- Synonyms: Harmful, damaging
- Antonyms: Beneficial, advantageous
- Sentence: The chemicals have deleterious effects on the environment.
Delineate $d ɪˈ l ɪ ni e ɪ t$ (v)
- Definition: To describe or portray (something) precisely.
- Synonyms: Describe, outline
- Antonyms: Confuse, distort
- Sentence: The report delineates the steps that need to be taken.
Derive $d ɪˈ r a ɪ v$ (v)
- Definition: To obtain something from (a specified source).
- Synonyms: Obtain, extract
- Antonyms: Give, lose
- Sentence: The word ‘democracy’ is derived from Greek.
Despondent $d ɪˈ s p ɒ n d ə n t$ (adj)
- Definition: In low spirits from loss of hope or courage.
- Synonyms: Disheartened, discouraged
- Antonyms: Hopeful, optimistic
- Sentence: She felt despondent after failing the exam.
Deter $d ɪˈ t ɜ r$ (v)
- Definition: To discourage (someone) from doing something, typically by instilling doubt or fear of the consequences.
- Synonyms: Discourage, dissuade
- Antonyms: Encourage, persuade
- Sentence: The new security measures are designed to deter theft.
Detrimental $ˌ d ɛ t r ɪˈ m ɛ n t ə l$ (adj)
- Definition: Tending to cause harm.
- Synonyms: Harmful, damaging
- Antonyms: Beneficial, advantageous
- Sentence: Smoking has a detrimental effect on health.
Deviate $ˈ d i v i e ɪ t$ (v)
- Definition: To depart from an established course or norm.
- Synonyms: Diverge, stray
- Antonyms: Conform, follow
- Sentence: The pilot had to deviate from the planned route due to bad weather.
Didactic $d a ɪˈ d æ k t ɪ k$ (adj)
- Definition: Intended to teach, particularly in having moral instruction as an ulterior motive.
- Synonyms: Educational, instructive
- Antonyms: Uninformative, unenlightening
- Sentence: The didactic novel aims to instruct readers about social justice.
Diligent $ˈ d ɪ l ə d ʒə n t$ (adj)
- Definition: Having or showing care and conscientiousness in one’s work or duties.
- Synonyms: Industrious, hardworking
- Antonyms: Lazy, negligent
- Sentence: Her diligent efforts earned her a promotion at work.
Disparage $d ɪˈ s p æ r ɪ d ʒ$ (v)
- Definition: To regard or represent as being of little worth.
- Synonyms: Belittle, deprecate
- Antonyms: Praise, commend
- Sentence: He often disparages his colleagues’ contributions.
Disparate $ˈ d ɪ s p ə r ə t$ (adj) Mastering Academic TOEFL Vocabulary:
- Definition: Essentially different in kind; not allowing comparison.
- Synonyms: Different, dissimilar
- Antonyms: Similar, alike
- Sentence: The two cultures were so disparate that they could not understand each other.

Disseminate $d ɪˈ s ɛ m ɪˌ n e ɪ t$ (v)
- Definition: To spread or disperse (something, especially information) widely.
- Synonyms: Distribute, propagate
- Antonyms: Conceal, suppress
- Sentence: The organization aims to disseminate information about the importance of vaccination.
Distort $d ɪˈ s t ɔ r t$ (v)
- Definition: To pull or twist out of shape; to give a misleading or false account or impression of.
- Synonyms: Twist, misrepresent
- Antonyms: Clarify, straighten
- Sentence: The media can sometimes distort the truth to make a story more sensational.
Diverge $d əˈ v ɜ r d ʒ$ (v)
- Definition: To separate from another route, especially a main one, and go in a different direction.
- Synonyms: Separate, deviate
- Antonyms: Converge, coincide
- Sentence: The two paths diverge just before the bridge.
Docile $ˈ d ɑ s ə l$ (adj)
- Definition: Ready to accept control or instruction; submissive.
- Synonyms: Compliant, obedient
- Antonyms: Rebellious, disobedient
- Sentence: The docile nature of the puppy made it easy to train.
Eccentric $ɪ k ˈ s ɛ n t r ɪ k$ (adj)
- Definition: Unconventional and slightly strange.
- Synonyms: Unusual, quirky
- Antonyms: Conventional, ordinary
- Sentence: The professor was known for his eccentric habits and colorful attire.
Eclectic $ɪˈ k l ɛ k t ɪ k$ (adj)
- Definition: Deriving ideas, style, or taste from a broad and diverse range of sources.
- Synonyms: Diverse, varied
- Antonyms: Narrow, homogeneous
- Sentence: The gallery’s collection is eclectic, featuring art from various periods and styles.
Elicit $ɪˈ l ɪ s ɪ t$ (v)
- Definition: To evoke or draw out (a response, answer, or fact) from someone in reaction to one’s own actions or questions.
- Synonyms: Evoke, extract
- Antonyms: Suppress, hide
- Sentence: The teacher’s question was designed to elicit thoughtful responses from the students.
Embellish $ɪ m ˈ b ɛ l ɪʃ$ (v)
- Definition: To make (something) more attractive by the addition of decorative details or features.
- Synonyms: Adorn, decorate
- Antonyms: Simplify, strip
- Sentence: She likes to embellish her stories to make them more interesting.
Emulate $ˈɛ mj əˌ l e ɪ t$ (v)
- Definition: To match or surpass (a person or achievement), typically by imitation.
- Synonyms: Imitate, mimic
- Antonyms: Neglect, ignore
- Sentence: Many young athletes aspire to emulate their sports heroes.
Engender $ɪ n ˈ d ʒɛ n d ə r$ (v) Mastering Academic TOEFL Vocabulary:
- Definition: To cause or give rise to (a feeling, situation, or condition).
- Synonyms: Generate, provoke
- Antonyms: Suppress, quell
- Sentence: The new policy engendered controversy among the citizens.
Enigma $ɪˈ n ɪɡ m ə$ (n)
- Definition: A person or thing that is mysterious, puzzling, or difficult to understand.
- Synonyms: Mystery, puzzle
- Antonyms: Clarity, transparency
- Sentence: Despite years of study, the scientist remained an enigma.
Ephemeral $ɪˈ f ɛ m ə r ə l$ (adj)
- Definition: Lasting for a very short time.
- Synonyms: Transitory, fleeting
- Antonyms: Permanent, enduring
- Sentence: The beauty of the sunset was ephemeral, disappearing within minutes.
Eradicate $ɪˈ r æ d ɪˌ k e ɪ t$ (v)
- Definition: To destroy completely; put an end to.
- Synonyms: Eliminate, annihilate
- Antonyms: Establish, create
- Sentence: The campaign aims to eradicate poverty in the region.
Esoteric $ˌɛ s əˈ t ɛ r ɪ k$ (adj)
- Definition: Intended for or likely to be understood by only a small number of people with a specialized knowledge or interest.
- Synonyms: Obscure, arcane
- Antonyms: Common, familiar
- Sentence: The professor’s lectures on quantum mechanics are very esoteric.
Euphemism $ˈ j u ː f ə m ɪ z ə m$ (n)
- Definition: A mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt when referring to something unpleasant or embarrassing.
- Synonyms: Substitute, understatement
- Antonyms: Dysphemism, directness
- Sentence: “Passed away” is a common euphemism for “died.”
Exacerbate $ɪɡˈ z æ s ə r ˌ b e ɪ t$ (v)
- Definition: To make (a problem, bad situation, or negative feeling) worse.
- Synonyms: Aggravate, worsen
- Antonyms: Alleviate, reduce
- Sentence: The new tax policy will exacerbate the income disparity between rich and poor.
Exemplify $ɪɡˈ z ɛ m pl əˌ f a ɪ$ (v)
- Definition: To be a typical example of.
- Synonyms: Illustrate, typify
- Antonyms: Misrepresent, obscure
- Sentence: Her career exemplifies the rewards of hard work and dedication.
Exorbitant $ɪɡˈ z ɔ r b ɪ t ə n t$ (adj)
- Definition: (of a price or amount charged) unreasonably high.
- Synonyms: Excessive, outrageous
- Antonyms: Reasonable, moderate
- Sentence: The hotel charges an exorbitant rate for a simple room.
Expedite $ˈɛ k s p ɪˌ d a ɪ t$ (v)
- Definition: To make (an action or process) happen sooner or be accomplished more quickly.
- Synonyms: Accelerate, hasten
- Antonyms: Delay, hinder
- Sentence: The company promised to expedite the delivery of the package.
Extol $ɪ k ˈ s t o ʊ l$ (v) – Definition: To praise enthusiastically. – Synonyms: Praise, acclaim – Antonyms: Criticize, denounce – Sentence: The coach extolled the players for their excellent performance.

Quiz 1: Multiple Choice (Definitions) Mastering Academic TOEFL Vocabulary:

What does “abate” mean?
- a) To increase
- b) To lessen
- c) To maintain
- d) To conceal
What does “belie” mean?
- a) To support
- b) To contradict
- c) To admire
- d) To facilitate
What does “candid” mean?
- a) Deceitful
- b) Secretive
- c) Honest
- d) Indifferent
What does “debunk” mean?
- a) To confirm
- b) To prove
- c) To expose as false
- d) To argue
What does “eclectic” mean?
- a) Diverse
- b) Homogeneous
- c) Simple
- d) Conventional
What does “facilitate” mean?
- a) To obstruct
- b) To ease
- c) To delay
- d) To harm
What does “garner” mean?
- a) To scatter
- b) To obtain
- c) To spend
- d) To ignore
What does “hamper” mean?
- a) To assist
- b) To impede
- c) To neglect
- d) To ignore
What does “jeopardize” mean?
- a) To protect
- b) To endanger
- c) To secure
- d) To enhance
What does “mitigate” mean?
- a) To aggravate
- b) To ease
- c) To prolong
- d) To conceal
What does “nullify” mean?
- a) To validate
- b) To cancel
- c) To support
- d) To enhance
What does “obscure” mean?
- a) To reveal
- b) To hide
- c) To simplify
- d) To enhance
What does “pivotal” mean?
- a) Unimportant
- b) Critical
- c) Ordinary
- d) Common
What does “quell” mean?
- a) To incite
- b) To suppress
- c) To provoke
- d) To encourage
What does “refute” mean?
- a) To prove
- b) To deny
- c) To disprove
- d) To support
What does “scrutinize” mean?
- a) To ignore
- b) To inspect
- c) To overlook
- d) To neglect
What does “tangible” mean?
- a) Abstract
- b) Concrete
- c) Imaginary
- d) Illusory
What does “undermine” mean?
- a) To strengthen
- b) To weaken
- c) To support
- d) To confirm
What does “validate” mean?
- a) To disprove
- b) To confirm
- c) To ignore
- d) To conceal
What does “wane” mean?
- a) To increase
- b) To decrease
- c) To maintain
- d) To extend
What does “xenophobic” mean?
- a) Tolerant
- b) Fearful of foreigners
- c) Indifferent
- d) Welcoming
What does “yield” mean?
- a) To resist
- b) To produce
- c) To destroy
- d) To conceal
What does “zealous” mean?
- a) Apathetic
- b) Enthusiastic
- c) Indifferent
- d) Dispassionate
What does “ambiguous” mean?
- a) Clear
- b) Vague
- c) Certain
- d) Definite
What does “benevolent” mean?
- a) Cruel
- b) Kind
- c) Selfish
- d) Harsh

Quiz 2: Multiple Choice (Correct Form) Mastering Academic TOEFL Vocabulary:

She managed to ________ a large sum of money for her charity.
- a) garner
- b) garners
- c) garnering
- d) garnered
The teacher asked the students to ________ the text closely.
- a) scrutiny
- b) scrutinize
- c) scrutinizing
- d) scrutinized
The new policy aims to ________ economic growth.
- a) facilitate
- b) facilitates
- c) facilitating
- d) facilitated
The scientist’s theory was eventually ________ by further research.
- a) refute
- b) refutes
- c) refuting
- d) refuted
His argument was full of ________ points that needed clarification.
- a) ambiguous
- b) ambiguity
- c) ambiguities
- d) ambiguousness
The museum exhibit was designed to ________ the cultural heritage of the region.
- a) exemplify
- b) exemplifies
- c) exemplifying
- d) exemplified
The campaign aims to ________ public awareness about environmental issues.
- a) disseminate
- b) disseminates
- c) disseminating
- d) disseminated
The manager’s decision was ________ by many employees.
- a) obscure
- b) obscured
- c) obscuring
- d) obscures
The doctor recommended a treatment to ________ the patient’s pain.
- a) mitigate
- b) mitigates
- c) mitigating
- d) mitigated
The lawyer’s argument was so ________ that the jury was convinced.
- a) tangible
- b) tangibly
- c) tangibleness
- d) tangibility
The scientist aimed to ________ the common misconceptions about the disease.
- a) debunk
- b) debunks
- c) debunking
- d) debunked
The director’s ________ approach to the project was well-received by the team.
- a) candid
- b) candor
- c) candidly
- d) candidness
The company’s new product was designed to ________ user convenience.
- a) enhance
- b) enhances
- c) enhancing
- d) enhanced
The organization works to ________ health care for all citizens.
- a) advocate
- b) advocates
- c) advocating
- d) advocated
The artist’s style is ________ by many of his peers.
- a) emulate
- b) emulates
- c) emulating
- d) emulated
The ________ landscape was a source of inspiration for the poet.
- a) ephemeral
- b) ephemerally
- c) ephemeralness
- d) ephemerality
The chef used spices to ________ the flavor of the dish.
- a) embellish
- b) embellishes
- c) embellishing
- d) embellished
The research aims to ________ the effects of climate change.
- a) elucidate
- b) elucidates
- c) elucidating
- d) elucidated
The new law was designed to ________ economic stability.
- a) engender
- b) engenders
- c) engendering
- d) engendered
The movie was praised for its ________ storyline.
- a) intricate
- b) intricately
- c) intricateness
- d) intricated
The patient’s condition began to ________ after the surgery.
- a) abate
- b) abates
- c) abating
- d) abated
The teacher’s method was ________ by educational researchers.
- a) validate
- b) validates
- c) validating
- d) validated
The report aimed to ________ the underlying causes of the problem.
- a) elucidate
- b) elucidates
- c) elucidating
- d) elucidated
The team’s ________ efforts led to their victory.
- a) zealous
- b) zealously
- c) zealousness
- d) zeal
The new evidence served to ________ the previous theory.
- a) corroborate
- b) corroborates
- c) corroborating
- d) corroborated

Learning these 100 academic vocabulary words will not only enhance your reporting verbs repertoire but also improve your comprehension of the academic listening and reading passages you’ll encounter on the TOEFL exam. Good luck with your studies!

Quiz 1: Multiple Choice (Definitions)

What does “abate” mean?
- Correct Answer: b) To lessen
What does “belie” mean?
- Correct Answer: b) To contradict
What does “candid” mean?
- Correct Answer: c) Honest
What does “debunk” mean?
- Correct Answer: c) To expose as false
What does “eclectic” mean?
- Correct Answer: a) Diverse
What does “facilitate” mean?
- Correct Answer: b) To ease
What does “garner” mean?
- Correct Answer: b) To obtain
What does “hamper” mean?
- Correct Answer: b) To impede
What does “jeopardize” mean?
- Correct Answer: b) To endanger
What does “mitigate” mean?
- Correct Answer: b) To ease
What does “nullify” mean?
- Correct Answer: b) To cancel
What does “obscure” mean?
- Correct Answer: b) To hide
What does “pivotal” mean?
- Correct Answer: b) Critical
What does “quell” mean?
- Correct Answer: b) To suppress
What does “refute” mean?
- Correct Answer: c) To disprove
What does “scrutinize” mean?
- Correct Answer: b) To inspect
What does “tangible” mean?
- Correct Answer: b) Concrete
What does “undermine” mean?
- Correct Answer: b) To weaken
What does “validate” mean?
- Correct Answer: b) To confirm
What does “wane” mean?
- Correct Answer: b) To decrease
What does “xenophobic” mean?
- Correct Answer: b) Fearful of foreigners
What does “yield” mean?
- Correct Answer: b) To produce
What does “zealous” mean?
- Correct Answer: b) Enthusiastic
What does “ambiguous” mean?
- Correct Answer: b) Vague
What does “benevolent” mean?
- Correct Answer: b) Kind

Quiz 2: Multiple Choice (Correct Form)

She managed to ________ a large sum of money for her charity.
- Correct Answer: d) garnered
The teacher asked the students to ________ the text closely.
- Correct Answer: b) scrutinize
The new policy aims to ________ economic growth.
- Correct Answer: a) facilitate
The scientist’s theory was eventually ________ by further research.
- Correct Answer: d) refuted
His argument was full of ________ points that needed clarification.
- Correct Answer: c) ambiguities
The museum exhibit was designed to ________ the cultural heritage of the region.
- Correct Answer: a) exemplify
The campaign aims to ________ public awareness about environmental issues.
- Correct Answer: a) disseminate
The manager’s decision was ________ by many employees.
- Correct Answer: b) obscured
The doctor recommended a treatment to ________ the patient’s pain.
- Correct Answer: a) mitigate
The lawyer’s argument was so ________ that the jury was convinced.
- Correct Answer: a) tangible
The scientist aimed to ________ the common misconceptions about the disease.
- Correct Answer: a) debunk
The director’s ________ approach to the project was well-received by the team.
- Correct Answer: c) candidly
The company’s new product was designed to ________ user convenience.
- Correct Answer: a) enhance
The organization works to ________ health care for all citizens.
- Correct Answer: a) advocate
The artist’s style is ________ by many of his peers.
- Correct Answer: b) emulated
The ________ landscape was a source of inspiration for the poet.
- Correct Answer: a) ephemeral
The chef used spices to ________ the flavor of the dish.
- Correct Answer: a) embellish
The research aims to ________ the effects of climate change.
- Correct Answer: a) elucidate
The new law was designed to ________ economic stability.
- Correct Answer: a) engender
The movie was praised for its ________ storyline.
- Correct Answer: a) intricate
The patient’s condition began to ________ after the surgery.
- Correct Answer: a) abate
The teacher’s method was ________ by educational researchers.
- Correct Answer: d) validated
The report aimed to ________ the underlying causes of the problem.
- Correct Answer: a) elucidate
The team’s ________ efforts led to their victory.
- Correct Answer: a) zealous
The new evidence served to ________ the previous theory.
- Correct Answer: a) corroborate