Lexico Practice Tests For Nec 176 Trang Fanpage Tai Lieu Tieng Anh Nang Cao Compress

FANPAGE TÀI LIỆU TIẾNG ANH NÂNG CAO
KEY AND
EXPLANATION
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TEST 1
Part 1.
It is not definite that the company will accept our offer, but there's a ___________
chance so there is no reason not to try.
A. sporting B. bragging C. pumping D. bubbling
Key: A
If there is a sporting chance that something good will happen, it is possible that it will
happen
She was ___________ with excitement, imagining how fun her first vacation abroad
would be after years working without resting.
A. bubbling over B. bristling at C. plodding along D. fawning over
Key: A
bubble over = to be so filled with sth (emotion, idea…)
I had to give up on having a pet dog because whenever it got sick, a trip to the vet would
___________.
A. clear me out B. clean me out C. wipe me out D. dry me out
Key: B
clean somebody out = to use all of somebody’s money
Annie and John hid their relationship so well that it took Mary quite a time to
___________ to the fact that they were dating.
A. come down B. glom onto C. dawn on D. cotton on
Key: D
cotton on (to something) = to begin to understand or realize something without being told
By successfully ___________ two seconds off his last best time, our son has not only
won the first prize but also set the world record.
A. cutting B. clipping C. sizing D. gashing
Key: B
clip off = to reduce the time that it takes to do something by a particular length of time
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Parkour, an activity which used not to be heard of by many people in India, is now
___________ in this country.
A. big B. faddy C. rife D. conventional
Key: A
big (adj) = popular with the public; successful
I like both teaching and researching so the position of a professor in college is a kind of
halfway ___________ between the two for me.
A. house B. line C. road D. hunch
Key: A
halfway house = something that combines particular features of two other things,
especially in order to try to please people who do not like the two things on their own
Living in the commuter ___________ is fine, but I’m planning to move into the city
centre.
A. belt B. pane C. line D. skirt
Key: A
commuter belt = the area surrounding a large city, where many people who work in the
city live.
Be careful before you sign the contract, remember to read every details including the
___________ print.
A. bold B. hidden C. fine D. clean
Key: C
the fine print = text in a formal agreement that is printed smaller than the rest of the text
The food tour was great, except for the insects, they looked and tasted so horrible that I
___________ with disgust.
A. gloated B. grimaced C. grinned D. chuckled
Key: B
grimace (at somebody/something) = to make an ugly expression with your face to show
pain, dislike, etc.
___________ your heart and mind of sinful thoughts before you enter the pagoda.
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A. Clean B. Purify C. Liberate D. Cleanse

Key: D
cleanse (v) = to take away somebody’s guilty feelings or sin
Unfortunately, the victim didn’t make it to the hospital, he was pronounced
___________.
A. dead from the neck up B. dead on sight
C. dead in the water D. dead on arrival
Key: D
dead on arrival = (of an accident victim or other patient) already dead when arriving at a
hospital
13. Despite the harsh flow of the stream, she ___________ her way through the water.
A. powered B. struck C. directed D. led
Key: A
power (v) = to move or move something very quickly and with great power in a particular
direction
A career in marketing has always been what she desires, so she just ___________
herself in her work.
A. immersed B. submerged C. engulfed D. dipped
Key: A
immerse yourself in something = to become or make somebody completely involved in
something
The polls are too close to call, and it looks like this election is going to be a real
___________.
A. brain-teaser B. enigma C. cliffhanger D. buoyancy
Key: C
cliffhanger (n) = a situation in a story, film, competition, etc. that is very exciting because
you cannot guess what will happen next, or you do not find out immediately what
happens next
Part 2.
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She is very active and sociable, so it is surprising that she dates such a quiet and
___________ man like Khoi. (ASSUME)
I knew it! Jean was not at all a faithful husband. Now stop saying my suspicion was
___________ (FOUND)!
After just 3 days, Donald has been able to dive ___________ into the pool. (HEAD)
Most homeless people in the US are ___________, they are all around cafes and
restaurants ready to pick up wasted food or leftovers. (FREE)
Sam was ___________ by Linda at first sight, no wonder she is considered a campus
fairy. (TWITTER)
Key:
UNASSUMING (adj) = not wanting to be noticed
ILL-FOUNDED/UNFOUNDED (adj) = not based on fact or reason
HEADFIRST (adv) = with your head in front of the rest of your body while you move
forward
FREE-LIVERS/FREEGANS (n) = someone who lives with more than usual freedom in
the gratification of physical appetites/someone who tries not to spend money by eating
food and using things that have been thrown away or that are found in nature
TWITTERPATED (adj) = to be swept off your feet by someone you quite fancy
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TEST 2
Part 1.
These days, schools no longer ___________ girls away from STEM subjects thanks to
the propagation of gender equality.
A. direct B. drive C. steer D. guide
Key: C
steer something + adv./prep. = to take control of a situation and influence the way in
which it develops
I cannot understand what does Jenny ___________ against Tom that makes her treat such
a nice guy so badly.
A. hold B. have C. keep D. make
Key: B
have (got) something against somebody/something (not used in the progressive tenses) =
to dislike someone or something for a particular reason
It turned out I was wrong to think that I could reach the finish line as I started to
___________ in the heat just thirty minutes after the race started.
A. shrivel B. weed C. wither D. wilt
Key: D
wilt (v) = to become weaker and tired
After Janice had to wait two hours to see her doctor, she became ___________ with the
office staff.
A. distressed B. averse C. vexatious D. belligerent
Key: D
belligerent (adj) = hostile, ready to fight
5. Is it ironic when people ___________ glasses of wine and drink to each other's health?
A. splat B. clunk C. clank D. clink
Key: D
clink (v) = to make or cause something to make a sharp ringing sound, like that of glasses
being hit against each other
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Don’t think that being children of celebrities is great because you would not only have
fame but also expectations ___________ you since birth.
A. thrust upon B. pasted to C. forced on D. rammed on
Key: A
thrust something/somebody on/upon somebody = to force somebody to accept or deal
with something/somebody that they do not want
___________! You have been in the bathroom for an hour and the concert starts at nine.
A. Tut tut B. Aye aye C. Chop chop D. Up up
Key: C
Chop chop! = Hurry up!
As an introvert, I really admire anyone who is a __________ with great confidence and
communication skills.
A. quick wire B. cup of beer C. good mixer D. hot dish.
Key: C
a good/bad mixer = a person who finds it easy/difficult to talk to people they do not
know, for example at a party
9. I know you are ___________ to French fries, but you had better cut down on it.
A. smitten B. hooked C. partial D. tied
Key: C
be partial to sth (formal/old-fashioned) = to like sth a lot
There is a very strong movement in my country now against ___________ sports like
hunting or shooting even though they are parts of national traditions.
A. lethal B. death C. blood D. red
Key: C
blood sport = a sport in which animals or birds are killed
11. The ___________ of central control has stifled local initiative.
A. dead hand B. smirky fingers C. eagle eyes D. tight grip
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Key: A
The dead hand of sth = an influence that control or limit sth
12. After a sleepless night, tiredness gradually ___________ him while he was driving.
A. lurk up on B. crept up on C. cinched on D. edged on
Key: B
Creep up on sb = to begin to affect sb, especially before they realize it
13. Alexa has got her boyfriend ___________, he will do everything she says.
A. eating out of her hand B. following her through the garden
C. to wash her clothes D. to sell her his heart
Key: A
eat out of (someone's) hand = to be manipulated or dominated by sb, to trust sb
completely
A large proportion of the households in this area is ___________ to the internet thanks to
a generous foreign donor.
A. linked up B. hooked up C. wired up D. crossed up
Key: B
hook up to sth = to connect sb/sth to a piece of electronic equipment / a power supply /
the internet
It came as a shock to Dan to find out that the police officer killed in the ___________
of duty yesterday was his dad.
A. hours B. line C. call D. strike
Key: B
in the line of duty = when sb is doing their job
Part 2.
Depending on a person’s cultural background, he or she might ___________ hunting as
an act of violence or not. (CONCEPT)
Instead, throughout his term as minister, he rode in the vehicle used by his predecessor
and continued to live in a(n) ___________ house. (PRETEND)
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Given the sensitivity of the matter, her frankness during the meeting was absolutely
___________ (JUDGE)
Action movies with fighting scenes have become so popular that people are increasingly
___________to violence on TV. (SENSE)
The ___________ of the book generally describes the author’s academic career and her
gratitude for her mother. (WORD)
Key:
CONCEPTUALISE (v) = to form an idea or theory in your mind:
UNPRETENTIOUS (adj) = not trying to appear more special, intelligent, important, etc.
than you really are/it really is
INJUDICIOUS (adj) = not sensible or wise; not appropriate in a particular situation
DESENSITISED (v) = to make somebody/something less aware of something as a
problem by making them become used to it
FOREWORD (n) = a short introduction at the beginning of a book
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TEST 3
Part 1.
The spokesperson said the information campaign was a ___________ to hide the most
regressive tax in history.
A. red curtain B. witch cloak C. book cover D. fig leaf
Key: D
fig leaf = something that hides something else, especially something that is dishonest or
embarrassing
Depression was once thought to be a ___________ of an individual's imagination but
research has shown that SAD is a real disorder.
A. figment B. figure C. byproduct D. docket
Key: A
figment (n) = something that somebody has imagined and that does not really exist
3. Dennis is very ___________ about things; he never lets anything stress him out.
A. tolerant B. impetuous C. warm-hearted D. laid-back
Key: D
laid-back = relaxed in manner and character; not usually worried about other people's
behaviour or things that need to be done
Were I to have the courage of my ___________, I would tell the boss how domineering
he was.
A. convictions B. points C. slant D. stance
Key: A
to have the courage of your convictions = to have the courage to say what you think
Joe thinks he can win the fight with that muscular man, he is really a ___________
short of load.
A. stone B. log C. brick D. hog
Key: C
a brick short of load = stupid or crazy
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6. It has taken them all this time to ___________ on a name for their baby.
A. decide B. conclude C. assent D. consent
Key: A
decide on: to choose something from a number of possibilities
After winning the lottery, the man squandered his money on gambling and was soon on
___________ after a year.
A. Queer street B. Baker street C. Pauper street D. Tramp street
Facebook's shares are ___________ after the company launched a new Instagram
feature that will compete with TikTok in the US.
A. holding her thumb B. on high skies C. coming up

roses D. on a tear
be on a tear = engaged in a continuous, fast-paced procession of actions or events,

especially with favorable results
The two generals, although ___________ cooperating to attack the enemy, actually detest
each other.
A. showily B. ostensibly C. audaciously D. benignly
Key: B
ostensibly (adv) = from appearance alone
The company is ___________ to see if this plan provokes any interest in the young
customer group.
A. flying a kite B. dropping the ball
C. shooting the messenger D. dropping the penny
Key: A
to fly a kite = to test out public opinion on a subject
They offered to buy her a BMW but she's holding ___________ a Porsche.
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A. out for B. out on C. back with D. up with

Key: A
hold out for = to wait until you get what you want
Although I am not a ___________ person, I sometimes do find some sex scenes on TV a
bit excessive and unacceptable.
A. prudish B. sanctimonious C. raffish D. dyspeptic
Key: A
prudish (adj) = easily shocked by rude things, especially anything relating to sex
I never cease to admire the ___________ endurance of my grandfather when captured by
the Nazi during World War Two.
A. placid B. stoical C. obstinate D. immutable
Key: B
stoical (adj) = able to suffer pain or trouble without complaining or showing what you are
feeling
Different from a misanthrope who has a hatred of people in general, Joey is more of a
___________ being distrustful of human goodness and sincerity.
A. pessimist B. tyrant C. cynic D. misogynist
Key: C
cynic (n) = a person who believes that people only do things to help themselves, rather
than for good or sincere reasons
When will you realise that it was your self-righteous and ___________ attitude that
prevented you from learning better ideas from other people?
A. fallow B. ghoulish C. bigoted D. conniving
Key: C
bigoted (adj) = showing strong, unreasonable beliefs or opinions and refusing to change
them
Part 2
I find it impossible to guide such a wild and ___________ person like her. (STRONG)
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He threatened to ___________ his eldest son if he chooses to give up the family business.
(HEIR)
Because we had to arrive on time, our ship had no choice but to ___________ the
congested area. (NAVIGATE)
The differences were ___________ to all but the most trained eye. (PERCEIVE)
Mary has just given birth yesterday so she is currently on ___________ leave.
(MOTHER)
Key:
HEADSTRONG (adj) = determined to do things one’s own way and refuses to listen to
advice
DISINHERIT (v) = to prevent somebody, especially a member of your family, from
receiving your money or property after your death
CIRCUMNAVIGATE (v) = to go around instead of through
IMPERCEPTIBLE (adj) = very small and therefore unable to be seen or felt
MATERNITY (n)
maternity leave = a period of time when a woman is allowed to be away from work
before and after having a baby
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TEST 4
Part 1.
He's been working with a ___________ over the past few weeks to make up for wasted
time.
A. drudgery B. servitude C. vengeance D. nudge
Key: C
with a vengeance = to a greater degree than is expected or usual
2. He felt his heart ___________ as his bride-to-be began her walk down the aisle.
A. fasten B. quicken C. expedite D. heighten
Key: B
quicken = to become quicker or make something quicker
3. Constance ___________ a sigh of relief when she heard that her loan was approved.
A. gave B. uttered C. expressed D. breathed
Key: D
breathe a sigh of relief = exhale noisily as a sign of relief
The telephone lines were ___________ with callers trying to get through to the electricity
supplier.
A. jammed B. throttled C. congested D. glutted
Key: A
jammed = very full; crowded
If there happened to be both rich and poor people, as there happen to be both black and
white ones, then the advantages of the ___________ might well spread in time to the
hard-up.
A. well-heeled B. big-hearted C. open-handed D. tight-fisted
Key: A
the well-heeled = rich people
Most popular magazines have a(n) ___________ page where letters about difficulties
with relationships are answered.
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A. sharing B. personal C. advice D. problem

Key: D
problem page = the part of a magazine or newspaper where letters from readers about
their personal problems are published, together with advice about how to deal with them
Two agents in our team were shot in ___________ for the killing of a rival gang member.
A. return B. retaliation C. reprisal D. recrimination
Key: C
to do sth in reprisal for sth = to have a violent or aggressive act towards somebody
because of something bad that they have done towards you
His talent meant he could create wondrous things, but his ___________ meant he hardly
ever felt like working.
A. adversity B. lethargy C. ineptitude D. tactlessness
Key: B
lethargy = the feeling of having little energy or of being unable or unwilling to do
anything
I left in high ___________ after waiting for them over an hour and not receiving any
apologies.
A. rage B. taciturnity C. oscillation D. dudgeon
Key: D
in high dudgeon = in an angry or offended mood, and showing other people that you are
angry
Everyone knows about his genius even though he never admits, good wine needs no
___________.
A. barter B. advertisement C. bush D. barrel
Key: C
good wine needs no bush = there is no need to advertise or boast about something of
good quality, as people will always discover its merits.
We don’t have enough __________ data to prove that the phenomenon is really affecting
the environment in a negative way.
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A. empirical B. informed C. substantive D. static

Key: A
empirical (adj) = based on experiment or experience rather than ideas or theories
She acts as if she really is the ___________ of our team and everyone has to rely on
her.
A. lone wolf B. white elephant C. big shark D. queen bee
Key: D
queen bee (n) = a woman who behaves as though she is the most important person in a
group
The police have been ___________ war on drug dealers in the city since January but their
effort does not seem to be very effective.
A. waging B. staging C. fighting D. raging
Key: A
wage (v) = to begin and continue a fight, a war, a battle…
The foreigners were amazed at the ___________ variety of goods in the huge department
store.
A. beleaguered B. bewildering C. baffling D. bizonal
Key: B
bewildering (adj) = making you feel confused because there are too many things to
choose from or because something is difficult to understand
James kept trying to ___________ his duties, but his manager told him if he didn’t start
taking responsibility for his work he would have to leave the company.
A. beaver away B. weasel out of C. chicken out of D. clam up
Key: B
weasel out of = to avoid doing something that you have agreed to do, especially by being
dishonest
Part 2.
The sandwich shop she's opening is a ___________ alternative to the town's male-
dominated coffee shop culture. (STAFF)
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The army of this Asian country has a long history of guerrilla ___________ (WAR)
Being a war ___________ is a dangerous job because you will have to bring yourself to
the most conflict-ridden parts of the world. (RESPOND)
During the 20th century, industrialisation continued ___________ with technology being
upgraded rapidly. (PACE)
Under ___________, white people were not allowed to marry their non-white
counterparts. (APART)
Key:
DISTAFF (n) = female or relating to women
WARFARE (n) = the activity of fighting a war, especially using particular weapons or
method
CORRESPONDENT (n) = a person who reports news from a particular country or on a
particular subject for a newspaper or a television or radio station.
APACE (adv) = happening quickly
APARTHEID (n) = the former political system in South Africa in which only white
people had full political and other rights.
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TEST 5
Part 1.
1. From our tent, we could see the delightful ___________ of lake Lukedeer.
A. scene B. prospect C. background D. layout
Key: B
prospect (n) = a wide view of an area of land, etc.
In Australia, the government controls the maintenance of war __________, post-war
commemorations and battle exploit memorials.
A. graves B. tombs C. grounds D. catacombs
Key: A
war grave = a burial place for members of the armed forces or civilians who died during
military campaigns or operations
Perhaps tomorrow’s event will mark the ___________ of my life, I cannot wait any
longer!
A. bright buff B. full spark C. high spot D. full bloom
Key: C
high spot = the most enjoyable or significant part of an experience or period of time.
An unusual noise from the back of the class during the exam __________ the teacher’s
attention.
A. held B. sustained C. arrested D. upheld
Key: C
arrest sth = to make sb notice and pay attention to sth
The new employee failed to realize the importance of obedience in this company and
refused to toe the ___________ line.
A. party B. camp C. function D. union
Key: A
toe the party line = to say or do what somebody in authority tells you to say or do, even if
you do not share the same opinions, etc.
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Bao is a ___________ off the old block of his father while his sister is more like the
mother.
A. tip B. chip C. piece D. copy
Key: B
a chip off the old block = a person who is very similar to their mother or father in the way
that they look or behave
He regarded this second prize just as a ___________ in order to prevent him from suing
the judges for corruption.
A. factoid B. sob C. whizz D. sop
Key: D
sop (n) = something of little importance or value that is offered to stop complaints or
unhappiness
Although his presidential campaign won ___________ from several celebrities, it failed
to compensate for his incompetence in dealing with last year’s economic crisis.
A. involvement B. warrant C. endorsement D. patronage
Key: C
endorsement (n) = a public statement or action showing that you support
somebody/something
9. Cinderella wore a beautiful dress to the party and was the ___________ of the ball.
A. beauty B. belle C. center D. charmer
Key: B
the belle of the ball = the most beautiful and popular girl or woman at a party.
Much as I like Literature, I cannot stand my teacher’s voice-slow, emotionless and
without ___________.
A. inflation B. reflection C. inflection D. infliction
Key: C
inflection (n) = change in the quality of the voice, often showing an emotion
I couldn’t come to your party as the date ___________ with my holiday.
A. clashed B. struck C. opposed D. occurred
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Key: A
If two events clash, they happen at the same time in a way that is not convenient.
12. At the start of the course every student is assigned a(n) ___________ of studies.
A. advisor B. consultant C. counsellor D. curator
Key: A
An advisor of studies is a type of counselor who works with students, usually at the
college level. They are the ones responsible for helping students choose a major and a
minor and ensuring that they meet all the requirements to graduate with a degree in that
field.
You should prioritize the public interest over a group’s ___________ interests.
A. personal B. sectional C. segregated D. exclusive
Key: B
Interests or aims that are sectional are limited to a particular group within an
organization, society, or country and do not consider other groups.
I hardly want to participate in extracurricular activities but this volunteer job is so
interesting that I accepted the offer with ___________.
A. solace B. consternation C. chastisement D. alacrity
Key: D
alacrity (n) = happiness, enthusiasm
The couple divorced after the husband was found ___________ an affair with a neighbor.
A. making B. having C. performing D. doing
Key: B
having an affair with sb = to have a love relationship with sb (especially when a person is
already in a relationship with sb else)
Part 2.
The ___________ cannot really understand these medical documents. (PERSON)
I need to get away from the hectic city for a while so I am planning to travel
___________ this weekend. (COUNTRY)
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He threatened to ___________ his eldest son if he chooses to give up the family business.
(HEIR)
Because we had to arrive on time, our ship had no choice but to ___________ the
congested area. (NAVIGATE)
The differences were ___________ to all but the most trained eye. (PERCEIVE)
Mary has just given birth yesterday so she is currently on ___________ leave.
(MOTHER)
Key:
HEADSTRONG (adj) = determined to do things one’s own way and refuses to listen to
advice
DISINHERIT (v) = to prevent somebody, especially a member of your family, from
receiving your money or property after your death
CIRCUMNAVIGATE (v) = to go around instead of through
IMPERCEPTIBLE (adj) = very small and therefore unable to be seen or felt
MATERNITY (n) 6 0
maternity leave = a period of time when a woman is allowed to be away from work
before and after having a baby
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TEST 4
Part 1.
He's been working with a ___________ over the past few weeks to make up for wasted
time.
A. drudgery B. servitude C. vengeance D. nudge
Key: C
with a vengeance = to a greater degree than is expected or usual
2. He felt his heart ___________ as his bride-to-be began her walk down the aisle.
A. fasten B. quicken C. expedite D. heighten
Key: B
quicken = to become quicker or make something quicker
3. Constance ___________ a sigh of relief when she heard that her loan was approved.
A. gave B. uttered C. expressed D. breathed
Key: D
breathe a sigh of relief = exhale noisily as a sign of relief
The telephone lines were ___________ with callers trying to get through to the electricity
supplier.
A. jammed B. throttled C. congested D. glutted
Key: A
jammed = very full; crowded
If there happened to be both rich and poor people, as there happen to be both black and
white ones, then the advantages of the ___________ might well spread in time to the
hard-up.
A. well-heeled B. big-hearted C. open-handed D. tight-fisted
6 0
Key: A
the well-heeled = rich people
Most popular magazines have a(n) ___________ page where letters about difficulties
with relationships are answered.
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6 0
A. sharing B. personal C. advice D. problem

Key: D
problem page = the part of a magazine or newspaper where letters from readers about
their personal problems are published, together with advice about how to deal with them
Two agents in our team were shot in ___________ for the killing of a rival gang member.
A. return B. retaliation C. reprisal D. recrimination
Key: C
to do sth in reprisal for sth = to have a violent or aggressive act towards somebody
because of something bad that they have done towards you
His talent meant he could create wondrous things, but his ___________ meant he hardly
ever felt like working.
A. adversity B. lethargy C. ineptitude D. tactlessness
Key: B
lethargy = the feeling of having little energy or of being unable or unwilling to do
anything
I left in high ___________ after waiting for them over an hour and not receiving any
apologies.
A. rage B. taciturnity C. oscillation D. dudgeon
Key: D
in high dudgeon = in an angry or offended mood, and showing other people that you are
angry
Everyone knows about his genius even though he never admits, good wine needs no
___________.
A. barter B. advertisement C. bush D. barrel
Key: C
good wine needs no bush = there is no need to advertise or boast about something of
good quality, as people will always discover its merits.
We don’t have enough __________ data to prove that the phenomenon is really affecting
the environment in a negative way.
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A. empirical B. informed C. substantive D. static

Key: A
empirical (adj) = based on experiment or experience rather than ideas or theories
She acts as if she really is the ___________ of our team and everyone has to rely on
her.
A. lone wolf B. white elephant C. big shark D. queen bee
Key: D
queen bee (n) = a woman who behaves as though she is the most important person in a
group
The police have been ___________ war 6 on0 drug dealers in the city since January but their
effort does not seem to be very effective.
A. waging B. staging C. fighting D. raging
Key: A
wage (v) = to begin and continue a fight, a war, a battle…
The foreigners were amazed at the ___________ variety of goods in the huge department
store.
A. beleaguered B. bewildering C. baffling D. bizonal
Key: B
bewildering (adj) = making you feel confused because there are too many things to
choose from or because something is difficult to understand
James kept trying to ___________ his duties, but his manager told him if he didn’t start
taking responsibility for his work he would have to leave the company.
A. beaver away B. weasel out of C. chicken out of D. clam up
Key: B
weasel out of = to avoid doing something that you have agreed to do, especially by being
dishonest
Part 2.
The sandwich shop she's opening is a ___________ alternative to the town's male-
dominated coffee shop culture. (STAFF)
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The army of this Asian country has a long history of guerrilla ___________ (WAR)
Being a war ___________ is a dangerous job because you will have to bring yourself to
the most conflict-ridden parts of the world. (RESPOND)
During the 20th century, industrialisation continued ___________ with technology being
upgraded rapidly. (PACE)
Under ___________, white people were not allowed to marry their non-white
counterparts. (APART)
Key:
DISTAFF (n) = female or relating to women
WARFARE (n) = the activity of fighting a war, especially using particular weapons or
method
CORRESPONDENT (n) = a person who reports news from a particular country or on a
particular subject for a newspaper or a television or radio station.
APACE (adv) = happening quickly
APARTHEID (n) = the former political system in South Africa in which only white
people had full political and other rights.
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TEST 5
Part 1.
1. From our tent, we could see the delightful ___________ of lake Lukedeer.
A. scene B. prospect C. background D. layout
Key: B
prospect (n) = a wide view of an area of land, etc.
In Australia, the government controls the maintenance of war __________, post-war
commemorations and battle exploit memorials.
A. graves B. tombs C. grounds D. catacombs
Key: A
war grave = a burial place for members of the armed forces or civilians who died during
military campaigns or operations
Perhaps tomorrow’s event will mark the ___________ of my life, I cannot wait any
longer!
A. bright buff B. full spark C. high spot D. full bloom
Key: C
high spot = the most enjoyable or significant part of an experience or period of time.
An unusual noise from the back of the class during the exam __________ the teacher’s
attention.
A. held B. sustained C. arrested D. upheld
Key: C
arrest sth = to make sb notice and pay attention to sth
The new employee failed to realize the importance of obedience in this company and
refused to toe the ___________ line.
A. party B. camp C. function D. union
Key: A
toe the party line = to say or do what somebody in authority tells you to say or do, even if
you do not share the same opinions, etc.
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Bao is a ___________ off the old block of his father while his sister is more like the
mother.
A. tip B. chip C. piece D. copy
Key: B
a chip off the old block = a person who is very similar to their mother or father in the way
that they look or behave 6 0
He regarded this second prize just as a ___________ in order to prevent him from suing
the judges for corruption.
A. factoid B. sob C. whizz D. sop
Key: D
sop (n) = something of little importance or value that is offered to stop complaints or
unhappiness
Although his presidential campaign won ___________ from several celebrities, it failed
to compensate for his incompetence in dealing with last year’s economic crisis.
A. involvement B. warrant C. endorsement D. patronage
Key: C
endorsement (n) = a public statement or action showing that you support
somebody/something
9. Cinderella wore a beautiful dress to the party and was the ___________ of the ball.
A. beauty B. belle C. center D. charmer
Key: B
the belle of the ball = the most beautiful and popular girl or woman at a party.
Much as I like Literature, I cannot stand my teacher’s voice-slow, emotionless and
without ___________.
A. inflation B. reflection C. inflection D. infliction
Key: C
inflection (n) = change in the quality of the voice, often showing an emotion
I couldn’t come to your party as the date ___________ with my holiday.
A. clashed B. struck C. opposed D. occurred
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Key: A
If two events clash, they happen at the same time in a way that is not convenient.
12. At the start of the course every student is assigned a(n) ___________ of studies.
A. advisor B. consultant C. counsellor D. curator
Key: A
An advisor of studies is a type of counselor who works with students, usually at the
college level. They are the ones responsible for helping students choose a major and a
minor and ensuring that they meet all the requirements to graduate with a degree in that
field.
You should prioritize the public interest over a group’s ___________ interests.
A. personal B. sectional C. segregated D. exclusive
Key: B
Interests or aims that are sectional are limited to a particular group within an
organization, society, or country and do not consider other groups.
I hardly want to participate in extracurricular activities but this volunteer job is so
interesting that I accepted the offer with ___________.
A. solace B. consternation6 C.0 chastisement D. alacrity
Key: D
alacrity (n) = happiness, enthusiasm
The couple divorced after the husband was found ___________ an affair with a neighbor.
A. making B. having C. performing D. doing
Key: B
having an affair with sb = to have a love relationship with sb (especially when a person is
already in a relationship with sb else)
Part 2.
The ___________ cannot really understand these medical documents. (PERSON)
I need to get away from the hectic city for a while so I am planning to travel
___________ this weekend. (COUNTRY)
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I worked late last night because I was ___________ with my project. (HAND)
Despite its historical inaccuracies, the film was one of the ___________ films of the year,
making the second highest profits. (GROSS)
I did not lie to you, by ___________ God I swear. (MIGHT)
Key:
LAYPERSON = a person who does not have expert knowledge of a particular subject
UP-COUNTRY (adv) = in the direction of or relating to the parts of a country further
from the coast, especially where there are few towns and people
BEHINDHAND (adj) = late in doing something or in paying money that is owed
TOP-GROSSING (adj) = earning more money than other similar things or people
ALMIGHTY (adj) = having complete power
THE ALMIGHTY = God
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TEST 6
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Part 1.
Sandy stole my when she announced that she was pregnant two days
Sandy stole my ___________ when she announced that she was pregnant two days
before I'd planned to tell people about my pregnancy.
A. thunder B. limelight C. stage D. mind
Key: A
steal sb’s thunder = to get the attention, success, etc. that somebody else was expecting,
usually by saying or doing what they had intended to say or do
Dressed in a bright red suit for the wedding, Jack apparently was making a
___________ of himself.
A. mess B. light C. spectacle D. spot
Key: C
make a spectacle of yourself = to draw attention to yourself by behaving or dressing in a
silly way in public
You don’t have the sound business ___________ that is necessary for success so I would
advise you to find another career.
A. starkness B. acumen C. punditry D. wit
Key: B
acumen (n) = skill in making correct decisions and judgments in a particular subject, such
as business or politics
More than 500 ___________ were involved in the coronation scene of Puyi in “The last
Emperor”.
A. adjuncts B. appendages C. extras D. additives
Key: C
extra (n) = a person in a film who does not have a speaking part and who is usually part
of the scene, for example, in a crowd
Entering the National Competition for the gifted ___________ tremendous concentration
and effort.
A. stipulates B. extracts C. exacts D. inquires
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Key: C
exact (v) = to make something necessary
Despite their disagreement, the representatives of the two nations managed to reach a(n)
___________ settlement, bringing temporary peace for both sides.
A. affable B. fraternal C. amiable D. amicable
Key: D
amicable (adj) = relating to an agreement or decision that is achieved without people
arguing or being unpleasant
The first successful flight in human history completed by the Wright brothers
___________ the law of gravity and stunned everybody.
A. refuted B. defied C. quelled D. disproved
Key: B 6 0
defy (v) = to refuse to obey a person, decision, law, situation, etc
The concert ended and the crowd quickly ___________, returning the quietness to the
small town.
A. disassembled B. dissembled C. dismantled D. disgorged
Key: A
disassemble (v) = (of a group of people) to move apart and go away in different
directions
After winning the lottery, they moved into a more ___________ house in a high-class
residential area and had a more comfortable life.
A. well-attended B. well-built C. well-appointed D. well-disposed
Key: C
well-appointed (adj) = having a good supply of comfortable or necessary furniture and
attractive decorations
Tony, you are trying to make her believe your lies so just keep it simple, do not over-egg
the ___________.
A. brulee B. pudding C. sponge D. madeleines
Key: B
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over-egg the pudding = used to say that you think somebody has done more than is
necessary, or has added unnecessary details to make something seem better or worse than
it really is
My school always forces students to follow the rules to the ___________ without caring
about their feelings.
A. book B. letter C. lines D. dots
Key: B
follow/obey something to the letter = to do exactly what you are told to do
12. Although my new house is fine, I still prefer the old one which ___________ a river.
A. backs onto B. faces off C. stands by D. sides with
Key: A
back onto something = (of a building) to have something directly behind it
We are required to ___________ empirical data and evidence from reliable sources to
support our argument.
A. adduce B. attest C. elicit D. accost
Key: A
adduce (v) = cite
Since John is the bee’s ___________ in terms of English, it is no wonder so many friends
ask him for support in this subject.
A. wings B. knees C. antenna D. spiracle
Key: B
the bee’s knees = an excellent person or thing
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There is no need to ___________ over the cracks, I know you are having problems, just
tell me and I will help you.
During the time I was ___________ in the hospital, I spent countless hours drawing and
praying to stay positive. (BED)
The centre was awarded a grant for education ___________ to poor students. (REACH)
Without some new force promoting ___________, the decline in fertility rates is
concerning for many developed countries. (CREATE)
The ___________ effects of music and fog enhance the air of mystery in the movie.
(SPHERE)
There are beds aplenty, but the problem is that the hospital is ___________ (HAND)
Key:
BEDRIDDEN (adj) = having to stay in bed because of illness or injury
OUTREACH (n) = the activity of an organization that provides a service or advice to
people in the community, especially those who cannot or are unlikely to come to an
office, a hospital, etc. for help
PROCREATION (n) = the process of producing young animals or babies
ATMOSPHERIC (adj) = creating a special feeling, especially a mysterious or romantic
feeling
SHORT-HANDED (adj) = does not have the usual or necessary number of workers
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TEST 11
Part 1.
She ___________ agreed to go with him to the football match although she had no
interest in the game at all.
A. apologetically B. grudgingly C. shamefacedly D. discreetly
Key: B
grudgingly (adv) = in a way that is given or done unwillingly
Police have not so far been able to ___________ a confession from the people accused
of the bombing.
A. excoriate B. exculpate C. extort D. expropriate
Key: C
extort (v) = to make somebody give you something by threatening them
The campaign was launched by David with a long ___________ against the lack of
action of the people in authority.
A. diatribe B. oath C. affidavit D. avowal
Key: A
diatribe (n) = a long and angry speech or piece of writing attacking and criticizing
somebody/something
Reducing plastic waste in school is a(n) ___________ aim, but enforcing them at
gunpoint will likely turn the plan into a failure.
A. exemplary B. glistening C. blazing D. laudable
Key: D
laudable (adj) = deserving to be praised or admired, even if not really successful
Although Mike is quite good at singing, he is barely a(n) ___________ by comparison
with professional singers.
A. dilettante B. greenhorn C. apprentice D. probationer
Key: A
dilettante (n) = a person who is or seems to be interested in a subject, but who is not
involved with it in a serious and determined way
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Although he appeared to enjoy a jet-setting life, he ___________ publicity and avoided

nightclubs..
A. rejigged B. derided C. eschewed D. abated
Key: C
eschew (v) = to deliberately avoid or keep away from something
Paradoxically, it is usually even harder for people to give up gambling after losing
because they want to ___________ their losses in the next game.
A. recoup B. rehab C. rectify D. repent
Key: A
recoup (v) = to get back an amount of money that you have spent or lost
Living to 100 will not be a pleasure anymore if you have to ___________ around
getting increasingly frail.
A. lumber B. dodder C. waddle D. dawdle
Key: B
dodder (v) = to move slowly and weakly, as if you might fall, especially because of being
very old
The meditation course has really helped his ___________ to abate, making him calmer
and more considerate.
A. irascibility B. fanaticism C. fervor D. mendacity
Key: A
irascibility (n) = the fact of tending to become angry very easily
The princess's nanny's autobiography really gives the ___________ on life among the
royals.
A. show-down B. know-how C. low-down D. look-out
Key: C
the low-down on (somebody/something) = the true facts about somebody/something,
especially those considered most important to know
He did everything to ___________ favour with his superiors in the hope of getting
promoted.
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A. hoard B. curry C. drag D. butter
curry favour (with somebody) (disapproving) = to try to get somebody to like or

support you by praising or helping them a lot
12. Children are more likely to be spoiled when their parents ___________ them.
A. dote on B. cosset at C. pamper round D. cosy up to
dote on = to feel and show great love for somebody, ignoring their faults
China was ___________ among the powers of the Eight-Nation Alliance by the end of
the 19th century.
A. thrashed out B. parceled out C. dished out D. slipped out
Key: B
parcel out = to divide something into parts or between several people
Mary finally decided to ___________ and broke up with Jack after having been
together for 4 years.
A. get off her base B. take the plunge
C. play possum D. jump the gun
Key: B
take the plunge = to decide to do something important or difficult, especially after
thinking about it for a long time
Their company is so debt-ridden that I think it’s safe to say they’re ___________ at
this stage.
A. down for the count B. down in the dumps
C. down at the heel D. down to the last penny
Key: A
down to the count = having been, or very near to being, defeated, ruined, or overcome.
Part 2.
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___________ for unemployment benefits are more and more numerous as the
economic crisis is getting worse in this country. (CLAIM)
My brother enjoys ___________ so much that I think he will never get married.
(BACHELOR)
Their parents had an almost ___________ ability to understand what was going on in
their children's minds. (NATURAL)
It is rumoured that the millionaire has connections with the criminal ___________ of
Japan. (WORLD)
The ___________ of the Prince of Wales took place in 1969, a year before the first
Earth day was celebrated. (INVEST)
1. CLAIMANTS
claimant (n) = a person who is receiving money from the state because they
are unemployed, etc.
BACHELORHOOD (n) = the time in a man’s life before he is married
PRETERNATURAL (adj) = that does not seem natural; that cannot be explained by
natural laws
UNDERWORLD (n) = the people and activities involved in crime in a particular place
INVESTITURE (n) = the fact of somebody formally receiving an official title or
special powers; a ceremony at which this happens
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TEST 12
I expected the film to be out-of-the-box, but the plot turned out to be just a(n)
___________ boy-meets-girl scenario.
A. frivolous B. hackneyed C. archetypal D. emblematic
Key: B
hackneyed (adj) = used too often and therefore boring
The part of her childhood memory, in which she was kidnapped, became something she
found impossible to ___________ however hard she tried.
A. expunge B. expurgate C. expatiate D. expound
Key: A
expunge (v) = to remove or get rid of something, such as a name, piece of information or
a memory, from a book or list, or from your mind
That friend of yours is a(n) ___________ person who cannot be trusted because she will
be willing to betray you at any time for his own benefits.
A. eccentric B. licentious C. lunatic D. perfidious
Key: D
perfidious (adj) = that cannot be trusted
Never let your thirst for knowledge be ___________ or you will, one day, be left behind
by this ever-evolving world.
A. queered B. quelled C. quenched D. quilt
Key: C
quench (v) = to satisfy a need/demand
With patience and diplomacy, he eventually ___________ the son of the billion-dollar
company into marrying him.
A. deluded B. inveigled C. cruised D. swindled
Key: B
inveigle (v) = to achieve control over somebody in a clever and dishonest way, especially
so that they will do what you want
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As an inevitable effect of globalization, small countries have no choice but to

___________ to the influence of the superpowers.
A. recast B. capitulate C. concede D. perish
Key: B
capitulate (v) = to stop resisting an enemy and accept that you are defeated
This argument may seem ___________ to those not closely involved in the world of
finance.
A. arcane B. peculiar C. foolhardy D. aberrant
Key: A
arcane (adj) = secret and mysterious and therefore difficult to understand
It really knocked me over with a ___________ when I found out that Annie passed her
Chemistry test with flying colours
A. punch B. mug C. feather D. stroke
Key: C
knock sb over with a feather = to schock/confuse/astonish sb
Although doctors always try their best to save people’s lives, they are often
___________ by the patients’ relatives whenever they fail.
A. heckled B. pestered C. derided D. berated
Key: D
berate (v) = to criticize or speak angrily to somebody because you do not approve of
something they have done
Given the competitiveness of the National Contest, I have to knock it out of the
___________ or I won’t be able to win any prizes.
A. park B. nail C. roof D. ring
Key: A
knock sth out of the park = to do sth extremely well
The agreement we reached before was just provisional so I hope you can have another
meeting with our company to ___________ the whole plan before the event.
A. pack up B. drum up C. firm up D. work up
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Key: C
firm up = to make arrangements more final and fixed
12. Billy, if you like History, you ___________, do not let peer pressure affect your life.
A. buy it B. do you C. be it D. be you
Key: B
you do you = used to say that sb should do what they think is best or what they enjoy.
Despite being threatened, the brave and loyal soldier would rather sacrifice than
___________ to the enemy’s demand.
A. give on B. cave in C. burrow in D. kneel down
Key: B
cave in = to agree to demands that you originally opposed because you have become tired
or frightened
___________ piety has degraded in the modern society as more children are disobedient
and disrespectful to their parents.
A. Filial B. Childhood C. Familial D. Fraternal
Key: A
filial piety = a virtue of respect for one’s parents, elders, and ancestors.
I don’t have anything to note here but I will try to ___________ your phone number
firmly in my mind and put it down later when I return home.
A. dwell B. key C. lodge D. set
Key: C
lodge (v) = to become fixed or cause something to become fixed in a place or position
Part 2.
It is ironic that while “Safety first” is said to be the ___________ here, no workers are
equipped with any basic protective equipment. (WORD)
The writer has used a variety of ___________ throughout his career to avoid the attention
of the government. (NAME)
In the ancient society of China, the concept of gender equality would be considered
___________and totally unacceptable. (HERESY)
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Steam is water in its ___________ form and may occur due to evaporation or due to
boiling. (GAS)
But for a brief period in the spring, the whole landscape explodes into a ___________
bloom. (COLOUR)
WATCHWORD (n) = (a word or phrase that represents) the main ideas or principles
directing the way that someone behaves or the way that something is done
PSEUDONYMS
Pseudonym (n) = a name used by somebody, especially a writer, instead of their real
name
HERETICAL (adj) = (of a belief or opinion) disagreeing strongly with what most people
believe
GASEOUS (adj) = like or containing gas
MULTICOLOURED (adj) = consisting of or decorated with many colours, especially
bright ones
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TEST 13
1. Her mind was ___________ by the death of her child and she never recovered.
A. upstaged B. unhinged C. upended D. unleashed
Key: B
unhinge (v) = to make somebody mentally ill
The coastguard duties included patrolling paths at the top of high and sheer cliffs - not a
job for the ___________.
A. faint-hearted B. weak-willed C. light-headed D. bloody-minded
Key: A
faint-hearted (adj) = not being confident or brave enough; afraid of failing
After our twenty-mile hike, I ate a hamburger and it tasted like the best food in the world.
Hunger is the best ___________.
A. dish B. seasoning C. chef D. sauce
Key: D
hunger is the best sauce = food tastes better when one is hungry
Don’t let insurance companies pull the ___________ over your eyes - ask for a list of all
the hidden charges.
A. silk B. mask C. ribbon D. wool
Key: D
pull the wool over somebody’s eyes = to hide your real actions or intentions from
somebody by making them believe something that is not true
After wasting almost a month, we ___________ by working from dusk till dawn to meet
the deadline.
A. ran ourselves into the ground B. played hard ball
C. rub shoulders with each other D. kept our body and soul together
Key: A
run/drive/work yourself into the ground = to work so hard that you become extremely
tired
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The general has ___________ his refusal to compromise with invaders and called for the
soldiers’ loyalty.
A. unveiled B. ushered C. proposed D. reiterated
Key: D
reiterate (v) = to repeat something that you have already said, especially to emphasize it
The man worked all his life and died with his ___________ on when he had a heart
attack at the factory.
A. hat B. boots C. shirt D. tie
Key: B
die with your boots on = die while fighting or to die while actively
occupied/employed/working or in the middle of some action.
In many developing countries, education is still the ___________ of the rich while the
governments show incompetency in changing that.
A. benefit B. priority C. dispensation D. prerogative
Key: D
prerogative (n) = a right or advantage belonging to a particular person or group because
of their importance or social position
The weasel words "if any" leave me with some concern that when push comes to
___________, the council may pull away from difficult issues.
A. pull B. shove C. end D. strike
Key: B
when push comes to shove = when there is no other choice; when everything else has
failed
Until this day, vegans are still dismissed as ___________ in many society despite their
efforts to spread their ideals.
A. ecclesiastical B. preposterous C. cranks D. cults
Key: C
crank (n) = a person with ideas that other people find strange
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The children ___________ when their teacher said they were going to plan a class
excursion.
A. flared up B. patched up C. perked up D. pepped up
Key: C
perk up = to become or to make somebody become more cheerful or lively, especially
after they have been ill or sad
The China garden is a green ___________ in the heart of modern Singapore, attracting
millions of tourists and visitors every year.
A. refuge B. façade C. virtuoso D. oasis
Key: D
oasis (n) = a pleasant place or period of time in the middle of something unpleasant or
difficult
13. You have been driving for a while, do you want me to ___________ you?
A. support B. supplant C. succor D. spell
Key: D
spell (v) = to replace for a short time somebody who is doing a particular activity so that
they can rest
14. I love the weather in spring when it is ___________, not too hot nor too cold.
A. torrid B. clement C. frigid D. sultry
Key: B
clement (adj) = mild and pleasant
This is ___________ software, and you have no right to copy it without a license from
the owner.
A. propitious B. propriety C. propitiatory D. proprietary
Key: D
proprietary (adj) = made and sold by a particular company and protected by a registered
trademark
Part 2.
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While ___________ flood damage can be eliminated by moving away from rivers,
people have traditionally lived by water bodies. (RIVER)
Some experiences in life have ___________ effects on an individual. (ERADICATE)
It is ludicrous of him to require absolute perfection from the products without considering
the natural ___________ of humankind. (FAIL)
Even if new regulations will not make a(n) ___________ difference to most people, any
small changes are still better than nothing. (APPRECIATE)
___________ should summarize the main facts about their performance based on the
staff evaluation criteria of the company. (APPRAISE)
Key:
RIVERINE (adj) = on, near, or relating to a river or the banks of a river
INERADICABLE (adj) = (of a quality or situation) that cannot be removed or changed
FALLIBILITY (n) = the ability to make mistakes or be wrong
APPRECIABLE (adj) = large enough to be noticed or thought important
APPRAISEES
Appraisee (n) = the person who is being judged on how well they are doing their job
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TEST 14
The eyewitness said that she had seen a man ___________ around outside the factory just
before the fire started.
A. prowling B. languishing C. lumbering D. moseying
Key: A
prowl (v) = to move quietly and carefully around an area, especially with the intention of
committing a crime
A lot of Peter Oprah’ writings ___________ sexism and call for gender equality, showing
his radical mindset.
A. duff up B. inveigh against C. tear off D. bubble under
Key: B
inveigh against = to criticize somebody/something strongly
I have moved to an apartment with many people sharing one room so I cannot
___________ my favorite songs like before anymore.
A. sound out B. sound off C. pound out D. pound off
Key: C
pound out = to play music loudly on a musical instrument
4. A sleepless night with my sick child has given me circled and ___________ eyes.
A. inflamed B. streaked C. amber D. bloodshot
Key: D
bloodshot (adj) = (of eyes) with the part that is usually white full of red lines because of
lack of sleep, etc.
On the aspect of health, you had better ___________ what the doctor says instead of
believing the Internet.
A. defer to B. allude to C. attend to D. tumble to
Key: A
defer to = to agree to accept what somebody has decided or what they think about sb/sth
because you respect him or her
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When Professor Jonathan obtained funding for six months' ___________ leave, he chose
to visit a centre specializing in the disease.
A. vacation B. sabbatical C. bereavement D. vocational
Key: B
sabbatical leave = a period of time when college or university teachers are allowed to
stop their usual work in order to study or travel, usually while continuing to be paid
Without the ___________ support of my family, I would never have been able to
withstand pressure and overcome failures to achieve today’s success.
A. wavering B. unflappable C. unflagging D. scalding
Key: C
unflagging (adj) = remaining strong; not becoming weak
Because Harry was late for school, he ran so fast that he fell down a ___________ of
stairs and ended up in the hospital.
A. creak B. wing C. gate D. flight
Key: D
flight (n) = a series of steps between two floors or levels
Peter Oprah is a true sister under the ___________ as he always supports women’s action
to improve their rights.
A. skin B. chin C. mask D. card
Key: A
a true sister under the skin = a man who supports women’s action to improve their rights
10 There is always a ___________ of journalists waiting for the actors and actresses
when they arrive at the event.
A. clique B. gaggle C. guard D. legion
Key: B
gaggle (n) = a group of noisy people
The amusement park used to be ___________ with children on every weekend, but now
it is closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
A. hoarding B. crowding C. swarming D. flocking
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Key: C
swarm with somebody/something = to be full of people or things
The proposed shopping centre has ___________ an angry response from local residents.
A. dished up B. given off C. churned out D. called forth
Key: D
call forth = to produce a particular reaction
Performance ___________ is one basic issue of human resource development and
management in an enterprise to evaluate an employee’s productivity and capability.
A. appraisal B. judgment C. remuneration D. assessment
Key: A
A performance appraisal is a regular review of an employee's job performance and
overall contribution to a company.
A whole ___________ of measures was tried in an attempt to get them to give up
cigarettes.
A. battery B. wood C. generation D. stream
Key: A
battery (of something) = a large number of things or people of the same type
People are usually attracted by appearance so it is no wonder she is ___________
with that male model.
A. infatuated B. mesmerized C. entangled D. seduced
Key: A
infatuated (with somebody/something) (adj) = having a very strong feeling of love or
attraction for somebody/something so that you cannot think clearly and in a sensible way
Part 2.
Cultural changes can cause a(n) ___________ between readers and old texts.
(STRANGE)
It was off the coast of Italy that nine-year-old Shelley went to his ___________ grave due
to the negligence of his parents. (WATER)
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In his later years, he was ___________ by the rejection of the girl he loved and the loss
of his money and fame. (BITTER)
Men and women should be able to compete for jobs on an equal ___________ to ensure
fairness. (FOOT)
Prices are going down now but it will soon increase again, we all know that changes in
the market follow a(n) ___________ pattern. (CYCLE)
Key:
ESTRANGEMENT (n) = a feeling that you do not understand someone or something, or
do not have any connection with him, her, or it
WATERY
watery grave = death by drowning
3. EMBITTERED
embitter (v) = to make someone feel angry and unhappy for a long time
FOOTING (n) = the basis on which something is established or organized
be on an equal footing = to be in an equal situation
CYCLIC(AL) (adj) = repeated many times and always happening in the same order
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TEST 15
Part 1.
You are being unnecessarily ___________ by spending too much time on details while
time is running out and only one third of your essay is finished.
A. recalcitrant B. mendacious C. dogmatic D. pedantic
Key: D
pedantic (adj) = too worried about small details or rules
Tony used to be a healthy man until he suddenly developed a ___________ for wine,
which really worries his family.
A. likeness B. partisan C. penchant D. palate
Key: C
penchant (n) = a special liking for something
How the pyramids of Egypt were built remains a(n) ___________ to the world until this
day.
A. brain-teaser B. enigma C. cliffhanger D. crypt
Key: B
enigma (n) = a person, thing or situation that is mysterious and difficult to understand
I decided to quit my job because I can’t stand being ___________ by my boss on every
minor fault.
A called out B. cried out C. torn down D. yelled over
Key: A
call sb out on sth = to criticize somebody, especially publicly
Even if the authorities want to develop this area, it is unjustifiable that they
___________ over the concerns of the local community.
A. lock horns B. pour cold water C. ride roughshod D. spike their guns
Key: C
ride roughshod over somebody = to treat somebody badly and not worry about their
feelings
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After two years living apart, the couple met each other and struggled to ___________
their love.
A. revive B. rekindle C. reheat D. relish
Key: B
rekindle (v) = to make a feeling or relationship become active again
Although the room was ___________ decorated in gold and silver, it was quite simply
over the top.
A. ostentatiously B. tantalisingly C. gregariously D. benevolently
Key: A
ostentatiously (adv) = in a way that is meant to impress people by showing how rich,
important, etc. somebody is
The violent scenes in that movie were simply ___________ and added nothing to the
storyline.
A. docile B. gratuitous C. dormant D. arduous
Key: B
gratuitous (adj) = done without any good reason or purpose and often having harmful
effects
That young people join parties despite the ongoing pandemic is a ___________
disregard for the community’s health.
A. flagrant B. convivial C. frugal D. feral
Key: A
flagrant (adj) = (of an action) that shocks you because it is done in a very obvious way
and shows no respect for people, laws, etc
The chances of finding those trapped in the snow after the avalanche now are
___________ after ten hours have passed and the rescue team has yet to arrive.
A. mediocre B. minuscule C. esoteric D. microscopic
Key: B
minuscule (adj) = extremely small
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You cannot blame Dan for our failure because it was you who ___________ him into this
mission.
A. prodded B. rammed C. let D. thrusted
Key: A
prod sb into sth = to try to make somebody do something, especially when they are
unwilling
The couple got married in 1990, which means that they will have ___________ 30 years
of marriage this summer.
A. run up B. dredged up C. chalked up D. cropped up
Key: C
chalk up sth = to achieve or record a success, points in a game, etc.
Andy, I think you have had enough clothes to wear, stop buying more, money doesn’t
grow on ___________.
A. grass B. trees C. air D. land
Key: B
money doesn’t grow on trees = said to warn someone to be careful how much money they
spend
We need some boys over here since it is going to require a certain amount of
___________ grease to carry this wardrobe upstairs.
A muscle B elbow C spine D knee
Key: B
elbow grease = a lot of physical effort
I have a(n) ___________ with my roommate because she is always eating my food
without asking!
A. hatchet to bury B. axe to grind C. screw to loose D. nail to hit
Key: B
have an axe to grind = to have private reasons for being involved in something or for
arguing for a particular cause
Part 2.
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Key: C
test the water = try to find out what reaction an action or idea will get before you do it or
tell it to people.
Although the king has abdicated the throne in his son’s favour, he still rules the country
___________.
A. de facto B. de jure C. de pronto D. jamais vu
Key: A
de facto (adv) = in a way that exists as a fact although it may not be legally accepted
14 Despite Mary’s talents, Mary’s mother still forced her to become an ordinary
___________ worker, confining her to the office.
A. clerical B. white-collar C. clergy D. back-room
Key: A
clerical (adj) = connected with office work
Mary attempted to ___________ herself with her new boss by volunteering to take on
extra work and even leaving the office later than everybody else.
A. satiate B. flatter C. ingratiate D. commend
Key: C
ingratiate oneself with sb = to do things in order to make sb like you, especially sb who
will be useful to you
Part 2.
If you didn't do anything ___________, why did you feel worried when the police called
you in? (CREDIT)
Her husband didn’t know about her ___________ affair with her boss. (MARRY)
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You had better ask your tattoo artist to provide you ___________ instructions. (CARE)
The President’s car was escorted by motorcycle ___________ on his way to the Queen’s
palace. (RIDE)
Unfortunately, his ___________ has prevented him from taking part in this debate. I hope
he will soon recover and be with us again. (DISPOSE)
Key:
DISCREDITABLE (adj) = causing or likely to cause a loss of respect for a person, group,
or idea
EXTRAMARITAL (adj) = happening outside marriage
AFTERCARE (adj) = care or treatment given to someone after they leave hospital, prison
etc
OUTRIDERS
outrider (n) = a person who rides a motorcycle or a horse in front of or next to the vehicle
of an important person in order to give protection
5. INDISPOSITION (n) = a slight illness
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TEST 10
Part 1.
On the threshold of adulthood, it is normal for a teenager to go through a period of
___________ with uncertainty and many worries dominating their minds.
A. crank B. angst C. borstal D. perturbation
Key: D
angst (n) = strong feelings of anxiety and unhappiness because you are worried about
your life, your future, or what you should do in a particular situation
The police forces from both countries were involved in the ___________of the escaped
prisoners because they had run into the forest that is the natural border between the two
nations.
A. apprehension B. attenuation C. capitulation D. seizure
Key: A
apprehension (n) = the act of capturing or arresting somebody, usually by the police
3. Galileo's ideas were well in ___________ of the age in which he lived.
A. front B. headway C. advance D. forth
Key: C
in advance (of sth) = more developed than somebody/something else
The jazz ___________ has played in 7 countries in Asia and Vietnam is going to be their
next destination.
A. assemble B. ensemble C. congregation D. association
Key: B
ensemble (n) = a small group of musicians, actors, or dancers who perform together
regularly
A ___________ of disapproval of Brexit was reported throughout Britain due to concerns
about long-term economic impacts of this decision.
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A. choir B. chorus C. carol D. corps
Kay: B
Kay: B
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a chorus of something = the sound of6a lot 0of people expressing approval or disapproval
at the same time
I ___________ that learning Chemistry is hard, if you try harder, I believe you will
manage to at least pass the exam!
A. assent B. grant C. cede D. bid
Key: B
grant (v) = to admit to somebody that something is true, although you may not like or
agree with it
He criticized the Director and, by ___________, the whole judge panel of this swimwear
pageant competition.
A. implication B. implementation C. connotation D. inference
Key: A
implication (n) = something that is suggested or indirectly stated (= something that is
implied)
8. The cliff was nearly ___________ and impossible to climb.
A. perpendicular B. perpetual C. upstanding D. erectile
Key: A
perpendicular (adj) = at an angle of 90° to a horizontal line or surface
There is no need to have a ___________. I will clear this mess when I am done and
return you your tidy living room.
A. fuse B. fit C. flip D. steam
Key: B
to have a fit = to become very upset
I got first-aid treatment down to a(n) ___________ after working in the Emergency
Room for a year.
A. artwork B. instinct C. science D. routine
Key: C
to have/get something down to a science = to have perfected something through routine
and repetition
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When I heard that he wanted to organize a party in his 250-square-feet apartment, I knew
his plan was going to be dead in the ___________.
A. water B. well C. sea D. moment
Key: A
dead in the water = fails or has little chance of succeeding
What really exists and happens in Area 51 is still ___________ in mystery and attracts
debate.
A. clouded B. shrouded C. blanketed D. parceled
Key: B
be shrouded in secrecy/mystery = to be a matter about which very little is known or
understood
6 0 you want to continue this project or not, stop
Just make up your mind and tell me whether
___________ hot and cold!
A. breathing B. blowing C. acting D. gusting
Key: B
blow hot and cold = to sometimes like or be interested in something or someone and
sometimes not, so people are confused about how you really feel
Thinking that this crime drama is just blood and ___________ is a big mistake because
the plot is extremely intelligent.
A. fluid B. gore C. gut D. kill
Key: B
blood and gore = violence scenes
15. I never tell my sister anything because I know she will definitely ___________ it out.
A. split B. blurt C. slip D. gush
Key: B
blurt out = To say something unexpectedly, often at an inopportune time or with the
wrong audience (as of a private or secret matter)
Part 2.
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During the time I was ___________ in the hospital, I spent countless hours drawing and
praying to stay positive. (BED)
The centre was awarded a grant for education ___________ to poor students. (REACH)
Without some new force promoting ___________, the decline in fertility rates is
concerning for many developed countries. (CREATE)
The ___________ effects of music and fog enhance the air of mystery in the movie.
(SPHERE)
There are beds aplenty, but the problem is that the hospital is ___________ (HAND)
Key:
BEDRIDDEN (adj) = having to stay in bed because of illness or injury
OUTREACH (n) = the activity of an organization that provides a service or advice to
people in the community, especially those who cannot or are unlikely to come to an
office, a hospital, etc. for help
PROCREATION (n) = the process of producing young animals or babies
ATMOSPHERIC (adj) = creating a special feeling, especially a mysterious or romantic
feeling
SHORT-HANDED (adj) = does not have the usual or necessary number of workers
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TEST 11
Part 1.
She ___________ agreed to go with him to the football match although she had no
interest in the game at all.
A. apologetically B. grudgingly C. shamefacedly D. discreetly
Key: B
grudgingly (adv) = in a way that is given or done unwillingly
Police have not so far been able to ___________ a confession from the people accused
of the bombing.
A. excoriate B. exculpate C. extort D. expropriate
Key: C
extort (v) = to make somebody give you something by threatening them
The campaign was launched by David with a long ___________ against the lack of
action of the people in authority.
A. diatribe B. oath C. affidavit D. avowal
Key: A
diatribe (n) = a long and angry speech or piece of writing attacking and criticizing
somebody/something
Reducing plastic waste in school is a(n) ___________ aim, but enforcing them at
gunpoint will likely turn the plan into a failure.
A. exemplary B. glistening C. blazing D. laudable
Key: D
laudable (adj) = deserving to be praised or admired, even if not really successful
Although Mike is quite good at singing, he is barely a(n) ___________ by comparison
with professional singers.
A. dilettante B. greenhorn C. apprentice D. probationer
Key: A
dilettante (n) = a person who is or seems to be interested in a subject, but who is not
involved with it in a serious and determined way
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Although he appeared to enjoy a jet-setting life, he ___________ publicity and avoided

nightclubs..
A. rejigged B. derided C. eschewed D. abated
Key: C
eschew (v) = to deliberately avoid or keep away from something
Paradoxically, it is usually even harder for people to give up gambling after losing
because they want to ___________ their losses in the next game.
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A. recoup B. rehab C. rectify D. repent
Key: A
recoup (v) = to get back an amount of money that you have spent or lost
Living to 100 will not be a pleasure anymore if you have to ___________ around
getting increasingly frail.
A. lumber B. dodder C. waddle D. dawdle
Key: B
dodder (v) = to move slowly and weakly, as if you might fall, especially because of being
very old
The meditation course has really helped his ___________ to abate, making him calmer
and more considerate.
A. irascibility B. fanaticism C. fervor D. mendacity
Key: A
irascibility (n) = the fact of tending to become angry very easily
The princess's nanny's autobiography really gives the ___________ on life among the
royals.
A. show-down B. know-how C. low-down D. look-out
Key: C
the low-down on (somebody/something) = the true facts about somebody/something,
especially those considered most important to know
He did everything to ___________ favour with his superiors in the hope of getting
promoted.
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A. hoard B. curry C. drag D. butter
curry favour (with somebody) (disapproving) = to try to get somebody to like or

support you by praising or helping them a lot
12. Children are more likely to be spoiled when their parents ___________ them.
A. dote on B. cosset at C. pamper round D. cosy up to
dote on = to feel and show great love for somebody, ignoring their faults
China was ___________ among the powers of the Eight-Nation Alliance by the end of
the 19th century.
A. thrashed out B. parceled out C. dished out D. slipped out
Key: B
parcel out = to divide something into parts or between several people
Mary finally decided to ___________ and broke up with Jack after having been
together for 4 years.
A. get off her base B. take the plunge
C. play possum D. jump the gun
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Key: B
take the plunge = to decide to do something important or difficult, especially after
thinking about it for a long time
Their company is so debt-ridden that I think it’s safe to say they’re ___________ at
this stage.
A. down for the count B. down in the dumps
C. down at the heel D. down to the last penny
Key: A
down to the count = having been, or very near to being, defeated, ruined, or overcome.
Part 2.
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___________ for unemployment benefits are more and more numerous as the
economic crisis is getting worse in this country. (CLAIM)
My brother enjoys ___________ so much that I think he will never get married.
(BACHELOR)
Their parents had an almost ___________ ability to understand what was going on in
their children's minds. (NATURAL)
It is rumoured that the millionaire has connections with the criminal ___________ of
Japan. (WORLD)
The ___________ of the Prince of Wales took place in 1969, a year before the first
Earth day was celebrated. (INVEST)
1. CLAIMANTS
claimant (n) = a person who is receiving money from the state because they
are unemployed, etc.
BACHELORHOOD (n) = the time in a man’s life before he is married
PRETERNATURAL (adj) = that does not seem natural; that cannot be explained by
natural laws
UNDERWORLD (n) = the people and activities involved in crime in a particular place
INVESTITURE (n) = the fact of somebody formally receiving an official title or
special powers; a ceremony at which this happens
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TEST 12
I expected the film to be out-of-the-box, but the plot turned out to be just a(n)
___________ boy-meets-girl scenario.
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A. frivolous B. hackneyed C. archetypal D. emblematic
Key: B
hackneyed (adj) = used too often and therefore boring
The part of her childhood memory, in which she was kidnapped, became something she
found impossible to ___________ however hard she tried.
A. expunge B. expurgate C. expatiate D. expound
Key: A
expunge (v) = to remove or get rid of something, such as a name, piece of information or
a memory, from a book or list, or from your mind
That friend of yours is a(n) ___________ person who cannot be trusted because she will
be willing to betray you at any time for his own benefits.
A. eccentric B. licentious C. lunatic D. perfidious
Key: D
perfidious (adj) = that cannot be trusted
Never let your thirst for knowledge be ___________ or you will, one day, be left behind
by this ever-evolving world.
A. queered B. quelled C. quenched D. quilt
Key: C
quench (v) = to satisfy a need/demand
With patience and diplomacy, he eventually ___________ the son of the billion-dollar
company into marrying him.
A. deluded B. inveigled C. cruised D. swindled
Key: B
inveigle (v) = to achieve control over somebody in a clever and dishonest way, especially
so that they will do what you want
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As an inevitable effect of globalization, small countries have no choice but to

___________ to the influence of the superpowers.
A. recast B. capitulate C. concede D. perish
Key: B
capitulate (v) = to stop resisting an enemy and accept that you are defeated
This argument may seem ___________ to those not closely involved in the world of
finance.
A. arcane B. peculiar C. foolhardy D. aberrant
Key: A
arcane (adj) = secret and mysterious and therefore difficult to understand
It really knocked me over with a ___________ when I found out that Annie passed her
Chemistry test with flying colours
A. punch B. mug C. feather D. stroke
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Key: C
knock sb over with a feather = to schock/confuse/astonish sb
Although doctors always try their best to save people’s lives, they are often
___________ by the patients’ relatives whenever they fail.
A. heckled B. pestered C. derided D. berated
Key: D
berate (v) = to criticize or speak angrily to somebody because you do not approve of
something they have done
Given the competitiveness of the National Contest, I have to knock it out of the
___________ or I won’t be able to win any prizes.
A. park B. nail C. roof D. ring
Key: A
knock sth out of the park = to do sth extremely well
The agreement we reached before was just provisional so I hope you can have another
meeting with our company to ___________ the whole plan before the event.
A. pack up B. drum up C. firm up D. work up
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Key: C
firm up = to make arrangements more final and fixed
12. Billy, if you like History, you ___________, do not let peer pressure affect your life.
A. buy it B. do you C. be it D. be you
Key: B
you do you = used to say that sb should do what they think is best or what they enjoy.
Despite being threatened, the brave and loyal soldier would rather sacrifice than
___________ to the enemy’s demand.
A. give on B. cave in C. burrow in D. kneel down
Key: B
cave in = to agree to demands that you originally opposed because you have become tired
or frightened
___________ piety has degraded in the modern society as more children are disobedient
and disrespectful to their parents.
A. Filial B. Childhood C. Familial D. Fraternal
Key: A
filial piety = a virtue of respect for one’s parents, elders, and ancestors.
I don’t have anything to note here but I will try to ___________ your phone number
firmly in my mind and put it down later when I return home.
A. dwell B. key C. lodge D. set
Key: C
lodge (v) = to become fixed or cause something to become fixed in a place or position
Part 2.
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It is ironic that while “Safety first” is said to be the ___________ here, no workers are
equipped with any basic protective equipment. (WORD)
The writer has used a variety of ___________ throughout his career to avoid the attention
of the government. (NAME)
In the ancient society of China, the concept of gender equality would be considered
___________and totally unacceptable. (HERESY)
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Steam is water in its ___________ form and may occur due to evaporation or due to
boiling. (GAS)
But for a brief period in the spring, the whole landscape explodes into a ___________
bloom. (COLOUR)
WATCHWORD (n) = (a word or phrase that represents) the main ideas or principles
directing the way that someone behaves or the way that something is done
PSEUDONYMS
Pseudonym (n) = a name used by somebody, especially a writer, instead of their real
name
HERETICAL (adj) = (of a belief or opinion) disagreeing strongly with what most people
believe
GASEOUS (adj) = like or containing gas
MULTICOLOURED (adj) = consisting of or decorated with many colours, especially
bright ones
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TEST 13
1. Her mind was ___________ by the death of her child and she never recovered.
A. upstaged B. unhinged C. upended D. unleashed
Key: B
unhinge (v) = to make somebody mentally ill
The coastguard duties included patrolling paths at the top of high and sheer cliffs - not a
job for the ___________.
A. faint-hearted B. weak-willed C. light-headed D. bloody-minded
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faint-hearted (adj) = not being confident or brave enough; afraid of failing

After our twenty-mile hike, I ate a hamburger and it tasted like the best food in the world.
Hunger is the best ___________.
A. dish B. seasoning C. chef D. sauce
Key: D
hunger is the best sauce = food tastes better when one is hungry
Don’t let insurance companies pull the ___________ over your eyes - ask for a list of all
the hidden charges.
A. silk B. mask C. ribbon D. wool
Key: D
pull the wool over somebody’s eyes = to hide your real actions or intentions from
somebody by making them believe something that is not true
After wasting almost a month, we ___________ by working from dusk till dawn to meet
the deadline.
A. ran ourselves into the ground B. played hard ball
C. rub shoulders with each other D. kept our body and soul together
Key: A
run/drive/work yourself into the ground = to work so hard that you become extremely
tired
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The general has ___________ his refusal to compromise with invaders and called for the
soldiers’ loyalty.
A. unveiled B. ushered C. proposed D. reiterated
Key: D
reiterate (v) = to repeat something that you have already said, especially to emphasize it
The man worked all his life and died with his ___________ on when he had a heart
attack at the factory.
A. hat B. boots C. shirt D. tie
Key: B
die with your boots on = die while fighting or to die while actively
occupied/employed/working or in the middle of some action.
In many developing countries, education is still the ___________ of the rich while the
governments show incompetency in changing that.
A. benefit B. priority C. dispensation D. prerogative
Key: D
prerogative (n) = a right or advantage belonging to a particular person or group because
of their importance or social position
The weasel words "if any" leave me with some concern that when push comes to
___________, the council may pull away from difficult issues.
A. pull B. shove 6 C.0 end D. strike
Key: B
when push comes to shove = when there is no other choice; when everything else has
failed
Until this day, vegans are still dismissed as ___________ in many society despite their
efforts to spread their ideals.
A. ecclesiastical B. preposterous C. cranks D. cults
Key: C
crank (n) = a person with ideas that other people find strange
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The children ___________ when their teacher said they were going to plan a class
excursion.
A. flared up B. patched up C. perked up D. pepped up
Key: C
perk up = to become or to make somebody become more cheerful or lively, especially
after they have been ill or sad
The China garden is a green ___________ in the heart of modern Singapore, attracting
millions of tourists and visitors every year.
A. refuge B. façade C. virtuoso D. oasis
Key: D
oasis (n) = a pleasant place or period of time in the middle of something unpleasant or
difficult
13. You have been driving for a while, do you want me to ___________ you?
A. support B. supplant C. succor D. spell
Key: D
spell (v) = to replace for a short time somebody who is doing a particular activity so that
they can rest
14. I love the weather in spring when it is ___________, not too hot nor too cold.
A. torrid B. clement C. frigid D. sultry
Key: B
clement (adj) = mild and pleasant
This is ___________ software, and you have no right to copy it without a license from
the owner.
A. propitious B. propriety C. propitiatory D. proprietary
Key: D
proprietary (adj) = made and sold by a particular company and protected by a registered
trademark
Part 2.
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While ___________ flood damage can be eliminated by moving away from rivers,
people have traditionally lived by water bodies. (RIVER)
Some experiences in life have ___________ effects on an individual. (ERADICATE)
It is ludicrous of him to require absolute perfection from the products without considering
the natural ___________ of humankind. (FAIL)
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Even if new regulations will not make a(n) ___________ difference to most people, any
small changes are still better than nothing. (APPRECIATE)
___________ should summarize the main facts about their performance based on the
staff evaluation criteria of the company. (APPRAISE)
Key:
RIVERINE (adj) = on, near, or relating to a river or the banks of a river
INERADICABLE (adj) = (of a quality or situation) that cannot be removed or changed
FALLIBILITY (n) = the ability to make mistakes or be wrong
APPRECIABLE (adj) = large enough to be noticed or thought important
APPRAISEES
Appraisee (n) = the person who is being judged on how well they are doing their job
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TEST 14
The eyewitness said that she had seen a man ___________ around outside the factory just
before the fire started.
A. prowling B. languishing C. lumbering D. moseying
Key: A
prowl (v) = to move quietly and carefully around an area, especially with the intention of
committing a crime
A lot of Peter Oprah’ writings ___________ sexism and call for gender equality, showing
his radical mindset.
A. duff up B. inveigh against C. tear off D. bubble under
Key: B
inveigh against = to criticize somebody/something strongly
I have moved to an apartment with many people sharing one room so I cannot
___________ my favorite songs like before anymore.
A. sound out B. sound off C. pound out D. pound off
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Key: C
pound out to play music loudly on a musical instrument
4. A sleepless night with my sick child has given me circled and ___________ eyes.
A. inflamed B. streaked C. amber D. bloodshot
Key: D
bloodshot (adj) = (of eyes) with the part that is usually white full of red lines because of
lack of sleep, etc.
On the aspect of health, you had better ___________ what the doctor says instead of
believing the Internet.
A. defer to B. allude to C. attend to D. tumble to
Key: A
defer to = to agree to accept what somebody has decided or what they think about sb/sth
because you respect him or her
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When Professor Jonathan obtained funding for six months' ___________ leave, he chose
to visit a centre specializing in the disease.
A. vacation B. sabbatical C. bereavement D. vocational
Key: B
sabbatical leave = a period of time when college or university teachers are allowed to
stop their usual work in order to study or travel, usually while continuing to be paid
Without the ___________ support of my family, I would never have been able to
withstand pressure and overcome failures to achieve today’s success.
A. wavering B. unflappable C. unflagging D. scalding
Key: C
unflagging (adj) = remaining strong; not becoming weak
Because Harry was late for school, he ran so fast that he fell down a ___________ of
stairs and ended up in the hospital.
A. creak B. wing C. gate D. flight
Key: D
flight (n) = a series of steps between two floors or levels
Peter Oprah is a true sister under the ___________ as he always supports women’s action
to improve their rights.
A. skin B. chin C. mask D. card
Key: A
a true sister under the skin = a man who supports women’s action to improve their rights
10 There is always a ___________ of journalists waiting for the actors and actresses
when they arrive at the event.
A. clique B. gaggle C. guard D. legion
Key: B
gaggle (n) = a group of noisy people 6 0
The amusement park used to be ___________ with children on every weekend, but now
it is closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
A. hoarding B. crowding C. swarming D. flocking
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Key: C 6 0
swarm with somebody/something = to be full of people or things

The proposed shopping centre has ___________ an angry response from local residents.
A. dished up B. given off C. churned out D. called forth
Key: D
call forth = to produce a particular reaction
Performance ___________ is one basic issue of human resource development and
management in an enterprise to evaluate an employee’s productivity and capability.
A. appraisal B. judgment C. remuneration D. assessment
Key: A
A performance appraisal is a regular review of an employee's job performance and
overall contribution to a company.
A whole ___________ of measures was tried in an attempt to get them to give up
cigarettes.
A. battery B. wood C. generation D. stream
Key: A
battery (of something) = a large number of things or people of the same type
People are usually attracted by appearance so it is no wonder she is ___________
with that male model.
A. infatuated B. mesmerized C. entangled D. seduced
Key: A
infatuated (with somebody/something) (adj) = having a very strong feeling of love or
attraction for somebody/something so that you cannot think clearly and in a sensible way
Part 2.
Cultural changes can cause a(n) ___________ between readers and old texts.
(STRANGE)
It was off the coast of Italy that nine-year-old Shelley went to his ___________ grave due
to the negligence of his parents. (WATER)
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In his later years, he was ___________ by the rejection of the girl he loved and the loss
of his money and fame. (BITTER)
Men and women should be able to compete for jobs on an equal ___________ to ensure
fairness. (FOOT)
Prices are going down now but it will soon increase again, we all know that changes in
the market follow a(n) ___________ pattern. (CYCLE)
Key:
ESTRANGEMENT (n) = a feeling that you do not understand someone or something, or
do not have any connection with him, her, or it
WATERY
watery grave = death by drowning
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3. EMBITTERED
embitter (v) = to make someone feel angry and unhappy for a long time
FOOTING (n) = the basis on which something is established or organized
be on an equal footing = to be in an equal situation
CYCLIC(AL) (adj) = repeated many times and always happening in the same order
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TEST 15
Part 1.
You are being unnecessarily ___________ by spending too much time on details while
time is running out and only one third of your essay is finished.
A. recalcitrant B. mendacious C. dogmatic D. pedantic
Key: D
pedantic (adj) = too worried about small details or rules
Tony used to be a healthy man until he suddenly developed a ___________ for wine,
which really worries his family.
A. likeness B. partisan C. penchant D. palate
Key: C
penchant (n) = a special liking for something
How the pyramids of Egypt were built remains a(n) ___________ to the world until this
day.
A. brain-teaser B. enigma C. cliffhanger D. crypt
Key: B
enigma (n) = a person, thing or situation that is mysterious and difficult to understand
I decided to quit my job because I can’t stand being ___________ by my boss on every
minor fault.
A called out B. cried out C. torn down D. yelled over
Key: A 6 0
call sb out on sth = to criticize somebody, especially publicly
Even if the authorities want to develop this area, it is unjustifiable that they
___________ over the concerns of the local community.
A. lock horns B. pour cold water C. ride roughshod D. spike their guns
Key: C
ride roughshod over somebody = to treat somebody badly and not worry about their
feelings
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After two years living apart, the couple met each other and struggled to ___________
their love.
A. revive B. rekindle C. reheat D. relish
Key: B
rekindle (v) = to make a feeling or relationship become active again
Although the room was ___________ decorated in gold and silver, it was quite simply
over the top.
A. ostentatiously B. tantalisingly C. gregariously D. benevolently
Key: A
ostentatiously (adv) = in a way that is meant to impress people by showing how rich,
important, etc. somebody is
The violent scenes in that movie were simply ___________ and added nothing to the
storyline.
A. docile B. gratuitous C. dormant D. arduous
Key: B
gratuitous (adj) = done without any good reason or purpose and often having harmful
effects
That young people join parties despite the ongoing pandemic is a ___________
disregard for the community’s health.
A. flagrant B. convivial C. frugal D. feral
Key: A
flagrant (adj) = (of an action) that shocks you because it is done in a very obvious way
and shows no respect for people, laws, etc
The chances of finding those trapped in the snow after the avalanche now are
___________ after ten hours have passed and the rescue team has yet to arrive.
A. mediocre B. minuscule C. esoteric D. microscopic
Key: B
minuscule (adj) = extremely small
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You cannot blame Dan for our failure because it was you who ___________ him into this
mission.
A. prodded B. rammed C. let D. thrusted
Key: A
prod sb into sth = to try to make somebody do something, especially when they are
unwilling
The couple got married in 1990, which
6 means
0 that they will have ___________ 30 years
of marriage this summer.
A. run up B. dredged up C. chalked up D. cropped up
Key: C
chalk up sth = to achieve or record a success, points in a game, etc.
Andy, I think you have had enough clothes to wear, stop buying more, money doesn’t
grow on ___________.
A. grass B. trees C. air D. land
Key: B
money doesn’t grow on trees = said to warn someone to be careful how much money they
spend
We need some boys over here since it is going to require a certain amount of
___________ grease to carry this wardrobe upstairs.
A muscle B elbow C spine D knee
Key: B
elbow grease = a lot of physical effort
I have a(n) ___________ with my roommate because she is always eating my food
without asking!
A. hatchet to bury B. axe to grind C. screw to loose D. nail to hit
Key: B
have an axe to grind = to have private reasons for being involved in something or for
arguing for a particular cause
Part 2.
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A(n) ___________ smile before the debate of her immediately created a much less
hostile atmosphere in the meeting room. (ARM)
The warring sides have agreed on a one-week ___________ for people to celebrate the
Lunar New Year. (FIRE)
It is an hour until lunch but I am already ___________ after cleaning up the whole house.
(RAVENING)
It was my childhood dream to live in a ___________ house, but now I could only afford
to rent an apartment. (PALACE)
Roughly 26 centuries ago, Sunzi wrote a powerful ___________ on military called The
Art of War. (TREAT)
Key:
DISARMING (adj) = making people feel less angry, making someone begin to like you
CEASEFIRE (n) = a time when enemies agree to stop fighting, usually while a way is
found to end the fighting permanently
RAVENOUS (adj) = (of a person or an animal) extremely hungry
PALATIAL (adj) = (of a room or building) very large and impressive, like a palace
TREATISE (n) = a serious book or article about a particular subject
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TEST 16
Part 1.
The actor still accepts to ___________ on the contract even if he will have to pay a
significant amount of compensation
A. shun B. renege C. snap D. impugn
Key: B
renege (on something) = to break a promise, an agreement, etc
The wife still ___________ her husband to this day, 28 years after his sacrifice in World
War II.
A. minds for B. quells for C. pines for D. falls for
Key: C
pine for somebody/something = to want or miss somebody/something very much
The reputation of this eminent school has been ___________ by the students who cheated
in the exam.
A. rued B. taunted C. tendered D. sullied
Key: D
sully something = to damage or reduce the value of something
He is a man who doesn’t know how to ___________ his words so many people have
been hurt by what he said.
A. mince B. gore C. cut D. forge
Key: A
not mince (your) words = to say something in a direct way even though it might offend
other people
I know she's had a hard time, but that is by no means a justifiable reason for her to
___________ her ex-husband of all his money.
A. dry B. milk C. take D. cede
Key: B
6 0
milk (v) = to obtain as much money, advantage, etc. for yourself as you can from a
particular situation.
144
Dilraba’s fans never ___________ in their belief in her, whatever was written in the
press.
A. slash B. meddle 6 C.0 falter D. gouge
Key: C
falter (v) = to become weaker or less effective
The clear fall in COVID-19 cases is regarded as a(n) ___________ of Vietnamese
government’s measures.
A. testimonial B. acclaim C. testament D. vindication
Key: D
vindication (n) = proof that something is true or that you were right, especially when
other people had a different opinion
8. The world is still waiting for a tried and ___________ vaccine for the disease.
A. believed B. checked C. trusted D. trodden
Key: C
tried and trusted/tested = relied on in the past successfully
9. Every time Mary comes late, she will ___________ a story to explain for her fault.
A. contrive B. concoct C. malign D. chastise
Key: B
concoct = to invent a story, an excuse, etc. or create a plan, especially for a dishonest
purpose
The people in this country were unfairly ___________ by the press as ‘international
terrorists’ while they appeared as friendly and amiable people when I travelled there.
A. vilified B. detained C. blotted D. poached
Key: A
vilify (v) = to say or write unpleasant things about somebody/something so that other
people will have a low opinion of them
He lived in ___________ poverty, trying to keep the style of a high social class while not
having much money.
A. pompous B. genteel C. desolate D. ostentatious
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Key: B
genteel (adj) = pretending to be from a high social class
The future looks ___________ for many traditional craft villages in the North of Vietnam
due to technological development and shifts in demand.
A. pale B. void C. plain D. bleak
Key: D
bleak (adj) = (of a situation) not giving any reason to have hope or expect anything good
He only goes to watch a match when his favorite team plays, otherwise, he has no
___________ in the fight.
A. bull B. chick C. dog D. bet
Key: C
have no dog in a fight = to not have an interest in sth
6 0
The only fly in the ___________ in an otherwise perfect party was the fact that my
grumpy uncle was there.
A. ointment B. soup C. porridge D. honey
Key: A
fly in the ointment = something that spoils a situation that could have been pleasant
Unlike his friends who also rose to stardom when they were still teenagers, Andy didn’t
have any ___________ but became even more modest.
A. airs and graces B. beer and skittles
C. cock and bull D. nudge and wink
Key: A
airs and graces = a way of behaving that shows that somebody thinks that they are more
important, etc. than they really are
Part 2.
Most women will be offered a(n) ___________ scan during pregnancy, although it's not
obligatory. (SOUND)
Maybe my modest height is hereditary because my father is a(n) ___________ man, less
than 5 feet tall. (MINUTE)
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The doctor was surprised by the little girl who endured her illness with great
___________ (FORT)
The professor tends to adopt a(n) ___________ manner when talking to younger
students, especially the females. (DESCEND)
There were ten votes in favour, six against, and seven ___________ so the policy was
launched in the end. (ABSTAIN)
Key:
ULTRASOUND (n) = a medical process that produces an image of what is inside your
body
DIMINUTIVE (adj) = very small
FORTITUDE (n) = courage shown by somebody who is suffering great pain or facing
great difficulties
CONDESCENDING (adj) = behaving as though you are more important and more
intelligent than other people
ABSTENTIONS
abstention (n) = the fact of not voting in favour of or against someone or something
6 0
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TEST 17
The event is not compulsory for twelfth-graders so you may leave of your own
___________.
A. volition B. obligation C. demand D. vindication
Key: A
volition (n) = the power to choose something freely or to make your own decisions
England's football fans were hoping for a ___________ performance of the national team
against Cameroon in this year’s tournament
A. virtuoso B. abysmal C. lucrative D. atrocious
Key: A
virtuoso (adj) = showing extremely great skill
No matter how much you exercise, an unhealthy diet will ___________ the effects of
training.
A. nullify B. abrogate C. disclaim D. stampede
Key: A
nullify (v) = to make something lose its effect or power
Not only the government but also the citizens have the responsibility to help
___________ the epidemic.
A. ring out B. stamp out C. eke out D. beat out
Key: B
stamp out = to get rid of something that is bad, unpleasant or dangerous, especially by
using force or a lot of effort
The government is walking a difficult ___________ in wanting to control the pandemic
without hampering economic growth.
A. footpath B. fenland C. tightrope D. boulevard
Key: C
tread/walk a tightrope = to be in a difficult situation in which you do not have much
freedom of action and need to be extremely careful about what you do
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I am a doctor so I know what to do, please mind your own business and stop
___________ on my toes.
A. stamping B. pinning C. treading D. rueing
Key: C
tread on somebody’s toes = to offend or annoy somebody, especially by getting involved
in something that is their responsibility
The movie had been over two years in ___________ before it was produced and
premiered.
A. formulation B. gestation 6 C.0 induction D. resurrection
Key: B
gestation (n) = the process by which an idea or a plan develops
The whole journal includes stories and pictures ___________ women and children in
mountainous regions around the world.
A. strayed from B. shed from C. stalked from D. culled from
Key: D
cull sth from sth = to choose or collect something from a source or several different
sources
He wore a(n) ___________ expression for weeks following the news that he had not got
the promotion.
A. latent B. exultant C. doleful D. nonchalant
Key: C
doleful (adj) = very sad
Because Henry knows the fact that he has failed the university entrance exam will be
known sooner or later, he decides to ___________it out instead of hiding it.
A. shun B. strive C. quash D. brazen
Key: D
brazen it out = to behave as if you are not ashamed or embarrassed about something even
though you should be
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Mary used to be a little country girl who liked to wear ___________ clothes before she
turned into a city dweller with a preference for dark fashion.
A. gaudy B. glossy C. noxious D. lustrous
Key: A
gaudy (adj) = too brightly coloured in a way that lacks taste
The millionaire, who is also a former student of TTL, has donated a ___________
sum of money to the school.
A. gregarious B. munificent C. egoistic D. laconic
Key: B
munificent (adj) = extremely generous
There was a ___________ of reliable information on the subject so the research cannot be
conducted.
A dearth B. vestige C. replica D. drought
Key: A
dearth (of sth) = a lack of something; the fact of there not being enough of something
By intuition, I feel that his behaviour ___________ hypocrisy, so you had better be
careful with him.
A. shows off B. dallies with C. savours of D. smells out
Key: C 6 0
savour of something = to seem to have an amount of something, especially something
bad
He was ___________ enough not to take the job when there was the possibility of getting
a better one a few months later.
A. analytic B. shrewd C. prescient D. ludicrous
Key: B
shrewd (adj) = having or based on a clear understanding and good judgment of a
situation, resulting in an advantage
Part 2.
In the old days, ___________ was entwined with political and social life. (MOVIE)
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2 It's a ___________ prophecy : expect things to go wrong, and they probably will.
(FULFIL)
The ___________ smell of cigarettes told her that he had been in the room. (TALE)
___________ forces in the industry are preventing its progress towards greater efficiency.
(ACT)
I hate eating out with friends because after every meal, we will be faced with the
___________ problem of who will pay. (TICKLE)
MOVIEMAKING (n) = the act or process of making a film

SELF-FULFILLING (adj) = happening because it is expected to happen
TELLTALE (adj) = showing that something exists or has happened
REACTIONARY (adj) = opposed to political or social change or new ideas
TICKLISH (adj) = (of a situation or problem) difficult to deal with, and possibly
embarrassing
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TEST 18
Part 1.
1. The teacher was suspicious of the student's ___________ behaviour during the exam.
A. furtive B. candid 6
C.0 cunning D. frivolous
Key: A
furtive (adj) = behaving in a way that shows that you want to keep something secret and
do not want to be noticed
Weapons that would have been ___________ twenty years before are now vulnerable and
obsolete.
A. invincible B. inviolable C. insatiable D. insipid
Key: A
invincible (adj) = too strong to be defeated or changed
The ___________ test of a good driver is whether he or she remains calm in an
emergency.
A. atom B. acid C. silver D. rocket
Key: B
acid test = a way of deciding whether something is successful or true
In spite of an ___________ start, the English runner quickly speeded up and won the
race.
A. ambiguous B. inauspicious C. inveterate D. invidious
Key: B
inauspicious (adj) = showing signs that the future will not be good or successful
Henry Ford did not start his operations by opening hundreds of factories in his first year
but mighty ___________ from tiny acorns grow.
A. spruces B. pines C. oaks D. willows
Key: C
great/tall oaks from little acorns grow = something large and successful often begins in a
very small way
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It was an ___________ feeling, climbing on to the rostrum, waving to the crowd and
receiving my medal.
A. exorbitant B. exuberant C. exultant D. extempore
Key: C
exultant (at something) = feeling or showing that you are very proud or happy, especially
because of something exciting that has happened
The actor had been ___________ for years with many subordinate roles before he finally
got the main role.
A. muddling along B. rattling off C. battling over D. bubbling under
Key: D
bubble under = to have some success but not yet be extremely successful and famous
The example ___________ at the end of the essay not only failed to support the student’s
arguments but even made it look messy.
A. added up B. thrashed out C. toyed with D. tacked on
Key: D 6 0
tack on = to add something extra, especially something that does not seem to belong to
The city is worth visiting – it has a lot __________ for it – attractive landscape, delicious
food, and low cost of living.
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A. going B. making C. fleeing D. flying
have a lot going for sth = have certain advantages that will make the end result successful
12. I went to the exhibition, but there was nothing much to __________ of there.
A. talk B. speak C. tell D. say
no something to speak of = not enough of something to make it worth talking about:

If I can __________ this weekend, I ‘ll bring you those plans.
A. bide my time B. play for time C. make time D. kill time
make time = to make certain you have some time when you are not busy in order to do
something you think you should do
She can’t leave the house because of her broken leg, so I’m sure time __________
very slowly for her.
A. moves B. drags C. flies D. runs
Key: B
drag = go slowly
He gave speeches all over the world to __________ support for his “Help the Homeless”
Campaign.
A. trot out B. turn to C. weigh up D. whip up
Key: D
whip sth up = to encourage or cause people to have strong feelings about
something Part 2.
It's that ______________ smile of his that I can't bear - it makes me want to puke!
(SUGAR)
The central character is a bad man who shoots people and gets his ______________.
(COME)
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The so-called ‘norm’ of the nuclear family is in fact ______________ of many families.
(TYPICAL)
His last book is a bold, at times ______________ mixture of fact and fancy. (REAL)
Temperature records have ______________ confirmed the existence of global warming.
(EQUAL)
SUGARY (adj) = seeming too full of emotion in a way that is not sincere
COMEUPPANCE (n) = an outcome (good or bad) that is well deserved
ATYPICAL (adj) = not typical or usual
SURREALISTIC (adj) = very strange; more like a dream than reality, with ideas and
images mixed together in a strange way
UNEQUIVOCALLY = in an unambiguous manner
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TEST 30
Part 1.
It is not nice to pour __________water on someone's plan when you do not want to be a
part of it in the first place.
A. hot B. cold C. deep D. shallow
Key: B
pour/throw cold water on sth = to criticize someone's opinions or ideas and stop people
believing them or being excited about them
The West Bank of the River Jordan was a __________ of contention between Palestine
and Israel.
A. finger B. spot C. bone D. point
Key: C
a bone of contention = something that two or more people argue about strongly over a
long period of time
In __________ with an international treaty, whale hunting in these areas has been
banned.
A. common B. connection C. conjunction D. line
Key: D
in line with sth = according to or following something such as a rule or principle
4. Everybody noticed my absence because you __________ their attention to it.
A. gave B. brought C. paid D. called
Key: D
call one’s attention to sb/sth = to make someone notice and think about a person or thing
The local council closed the roller skating-rink in the park __________ it was unsafe for
young children.
A. on the grounds that B. on the understanding that
C. on the off-chance that D. on the terms that
Key: A
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on the grounds that = for the reason that

Discussions on the issue of expansion of the company have been in __________ since the
outbreak of the disease in the area.
A. hitch B. limbo C. feud D. core
Key: B
in limbo = in a situation in which you are not certain what to do next, cannot take action,
etc., especially because you are waiting for somebody else to make a decision
Viewers were __________ at the incredible sight of the lunar landscape, unable to take
their eyes off the screen until the very end of the broadcast.
A. switched B. devised C. transfixed D. stifled
Key: C
transfix = to make a person or animal unable to move or stop looking at something
because they are so interested, surprised, or frightened
Having lost her mother at an early age, Mary felt she had become a mere __________,
having to do absolutely everything for her five brothers and sisters.
A. taskmaster B. workmate C. slavedriver D. workhorse
Key: D
workhorse = a person who does a lot of work, especially of a type that is necessary but
not interesting
If you need help, please don’t hesitate to call me. I can be there __________.
A. in a fix B. in a flash C. in a daze D. in the bag
Key: B
in a flash = immediately
My car broke down and I had to __________ a huge sum of money to have it towed and
serviced.
A. splash out B. fork out C. put aside D. pay off
Key: B
fork out = to pay an amount of money, especially unwillingly
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splash out sth = to spend a lot of money on buying things, especially things that are
pleasant to have but that you do not need
The candidate’s optimism gave __________ to doubt as the result of exit polls became
known.
A. place B. lie C. vent D. voice
Key: A
give place to = to be replaced by something or someone else
Somehow I managed to __________ my physics exam. The pass mark was 55 and I got
56.
A. scrape through B. shake off C. sit through D. slip off
Key: A
scrape through sth = to succeed in something but with a lot of difficulty
As much as the candidate tried to convince people of his honesty, he could not shake off
his __________ past.
A. serene B. tranquil C. shady D. frigid
Key: C
shady = dishonest or illegal
The local authorities annually __________ between £50 million and £100 million on art
projects.
A. disperse B. disband C. disburse D. dispose
Key: C
disburse = to pay out money, usually from an amount that has been collected for a
particular purpose
Most people are __________ to believe that girls and boys like certain toys when they are
young.
A. hardened B. acclimated C. conditioned D. accustomed
Key: C
condition = to train or influence a person or animal mentally so that they do or expect a
particular thing without thinking about it
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Part 2.
______________ telecommunications increasingly give ordinary citizens immediate
access to the major political decisions that affect their lives and property. (ACT)
This black comedy is a comment on the alienating and ____________ effects of
contemporary urban life. (HUMAN)
The young Jaxxon landed on Nar Shaddaa, and spent the next few years honing his
____________ survival skills and razor-sharp wit on the mean streets of the vertical
cities. (STREET)
With astonishingly rapid developments, even the hippest ___________ might wonder if
people in the future will even understand the cutting-edge lingo that is so exciting to us
today. (WORD)
Only ___________ who are seeking to make political capital out of the situation are
peddling such malicious and unjustified rumours. (SCARY)
Key:
INTERACTIVE (adj) = capable of acting on or influencing each other
DEHUMANIZING (adj) = depriving of human qualities
STREETWISE (adj) = having the shrewd resourcefulness needed to survive in an urban
environment
WORDSMITH (n) = a person who shows skill at using words
SCAREMONGERS (n)
Scaremonger = a person who spreads stories deliberately to make people frightened or
nervous
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TEST 31
Part 1.
1. They offered to buy her a BMW but she's holding ____________ a Porsche.
A. out for B. out on C. back with D. up with
Key: A
hold out for sth = to wait for something better
All the inhabitants in the area have been asked to ____________ at home if the storm
returns.
A. settle B. dwell C. remain D. occupy
Key: C
remain = to stay in the same place; to not leave
If it hadn't been for the hint that the professor ____________ nobody would have found
out the correct answer.
A. dropped B. cast C. threw D. flung
drop a hint = to suggest something without saying it directly
At one moment, the teacher got nervous seeing that whatever he said was
____________ on the students who weren't paying any attention to the lecture.
A. missed B. lost C. failed D. slipped
Key: B
If sth is lost on someone, they do not understand it.
Their relationship had been on the ____________ for years before they finally broke up.
A. stones B. rocks C. pebbles D. marbles
Key: B
on the rocks = likely to fail soon
It was the ____________ warning from the seismologists that helped save the lives of the
island inhabitants before the volcano erupted.
A. preliminary B. hasty C. cursory D. advance
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advance planning/warning/booking etc = planning/warning/booking etc that is done

before an event
7. The comforting news from my sister was a real ____________ off my mind.
A. stone B. deal C. load D. mass Key: C
load/weight off one’s mind = an occasion when a problem that has been worrying you
stops or is dealt with:
I didn't really feel like memorizing all these definitions. It was only the risk of getting
another bad mark that made me ____________ myself.
A. exert B. absorb C. endeavour D. deploy
exert oneself = to make a concerted effort to do something
9. His jokes set the whole class ____________ laughing.
A. off B. out C. up D. about
Key: A
set sb off = to cause someone to start doing something
10. Anyone who lies under oath will be charged with ____________ the course of justice.
A. perverting B. inverting C. converting D. diverting
pervert the course of justice = to act illegally to avoid punishment or to get the wrong
person punished
11. It was a close ____________ but we just made it to the airport on time for our flight.
A. run B. drive C. call D. go
close call = a situation in which something bad, unpleasant, or dangerous almost happens,
but you manage to avoid it
12. Marlene is quite ____________ - I don't know she manages to fit everything in.
A. inexhaustible B. tiresome C. inexorable D. indefatigable Key: D
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indefatigable = always determined and energetic in trying to achieve something and never
willing to admit defeat
James never really broke the rules but he did ____________ them a little bit when it
suited him.
A. twist B. curve C. move D. bend
Key: D
bend the rules = to break the rules in a way that you consider unimportant or not harmful
I went to see the boss about a pay rise and he ____________ with a weak excuse about a
business dinner and left me standing there.
A. brushed me aside B. brushed me up
C. brushed me off D. brushed me down
Key: C
brush somebody off = to rudely ignore somebody or refuse to listen to them
The government is using the taxes from the working class to bail out the banks that
ruined the economy? That really ____________!
A. sows wild oats B. spills the beans
C. takes the biscuit D. upsets the apple cart
Key: C
take the biscuit = to be especially annoying, surprising, etc. or to be the worst or best of
its kind
Part 2.
In 1988 there were several well-publicised cases of young people committing suicide
apparently because of ____________ love. (QUIT)
The investigator said the killings were the result of poor procedure by trigger-happy
police rather than ____________ murder. (MEDITATE)
____________ species require little oxygen, but animals or humans need a fair supply.
(AIR)
The opposing counsel then has a last opportunity to ____________ the witness to address
facts brought out in redirect examination. (EXAMINE)
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It is also of great importance in ____________ and material science in the production of

cast alloys. (METAL)
Key:
UNREQUITED (adj) = felt toward someone who does not feel the same way toward you
PREMEDITATED (adj) = done after being thought about or carefully planned
ANAEROBIC (adj) = relating to, involving, or requiring an absence of free oxygen
CROSS - EXAMINE (v) = to ask detailed questions of someone, especially a witness in a
trial, in order to discover if they have been telling the truth
METALLURGY (n) = the scientific study of the structures and uses of metals
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TEST 32
Part 1.
This conservative, evangelical megachurch, just outside San Diego, is a ____________
of activity on a Sunday morning.
A. mest B. home C. seat D. hive
Key: D
hive of activity = somewhere where there are lots of activities taking place at the same
time
Mr. Jones is ____________, unfortunately, so you’ll have to call again tomorrow.
A. indifferent B. inimitable C. indisposed D. incongruous
Key: C
indisposed = unable to do something because you are ill, or for a reason you do not want
to give
3. He tried to be as ____________ as possible, but his garish attire made it difficult.
A. accessible B. amenable C. incessant D. inconspicuous
Key: D
inconspicuous = not attracting attention; not easy to notice
Through a series of protestations and exclamations, coyness and giggling, I
____________that she was talking to her boyfriend.
A. assembled B. amassed C. harvested D. gathered
Key: D
gather = to believe or understand that something is true because of information or
evidence you have
Regional parliaments allow ____________ for remote parts of the country or islands far
from the capital.
A. self-government B. self-sufficiency C. self-regulation D. self-support
Key: A
self-government = government under the control and direction of the inhabitants of a
political unit rather than by an outside authority broadly
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Her ____________ behaviour made her the life of the party; everyone loved talking to
her.
A. exhaustive B. fragrant C. exuberant D. aromatic
Key: C
exuberant = full of energy, excitement and happiness
7. It gets my ____________ that she expects to look after the children every afternoon.
A. goat B. horse C. dog D. beetle Key: A
get one’s goat = annoy sb

Although he came to work the day before his retirement, everyone knew he was just
________.
A. going with the flow B. going through the motions
C. going against the grain D. going along with them
go through the motions = to do or say something because you have to, not because you
really want to
9. They are not likely to ____________ information during the current armed conflict.
A. cop out B. ladle out C. peter out D. pull out
ladle out = give somebody a lot of something, especially money or
advice Key: B
ladle out = give somebody a lot of something, especially money or advice
I offered to do the job, but soon found that I was ____________ as it was more difficult
than I had thought.
A. pushing up daisies B. knocking on wood
C. in over my head D. off my hands
Key: C
be in over one’s head = be involved in a difficult situation that you cannot get out of
The local area is ____________ lacking in places to enjoy art and cinema.
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A. properly B. rashly C. sorely D. aptly

Key: C
sorely = seriously
The well-known ____________ clash between the President and the rebel leader is not
making things easier.
A. character B. mood C. enemy D. personality
personality clash = encounter between people whose characters/overall behaviour conflict

13. We hurried back to our car as we saw the clouds ____________ over the mountains.
A. rolling in B. holding off C. beating down D. bucketing down
roll in = to arrive in great numbers or amounts

Colin is only just ____________; he gets unemployment benefit, but it isn’t much.
A. scraping by B. putting aside C. bailing out D. tiding over Key: A
scrape by = to have only enough money to pay for the basic things you need
This is a very busy office and in your new position you will have to be able to think on
your ____________!
A. toes B. legs C. feet D. knees
think on one’s feet = to make a quick decision or give an answer
quickly Part 2.
She had had the ____________ to prepare herself financially in case of an accident.
(SIGHT)
They were sturdy and wooden; quite beautiful in their ____________, utilitarian lines.
(CLOT)
My room is ____________, so we can invite them to the party in my room. (SHIP)
The turbulence of the airplane during the storm made everyone feel ____________.
(EASE)
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It is essential that tutors provide a good service ____________ with the fees being
charged to students and/or their employers. (MEASURE)
Key:
FORESIGHT (n) = the ability to judge correctly what is going to happen in the future and
plan your actions based on this knowledge
UNCLUTTERED (adj) = not having too many objects in it, and looking tidy
SHIPSHAPE (adj) = clean and neat; in good condition and ready to use
QUEASY (adj) = feeling sick; wanting to vomit
COMMENSURATE (adj) = matching something in size, importance, quality, etc.
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TEST 33
Part 1.
Being a college professor ____________ you the opportunity simply to write and do
research.
A. affords B. dispenses B. grants C. procures
Key: A
afford somebody something = to provide somebody with something
2. I am afraid that sofa is a ____________ too big to fit along that wall.
A. dose B. portion C. shade D. slice
a shade = a little; slightly

3. Fortunately, I noticed that the shop assistant had ____________ the wrong amount.
A. run over B. rung up C. put on D. rounded up
ring up = enter the cost of goods being bought in a shop on a cash register by pressing the
buttons; to make sales of a particular value
It did not take much to ____________ the old animosity lurking behind the surface of
their relationship.
A. resuscitate B. rekindle C. restore D. regain
Key: B
rekindle = make someone have a feeling that they had in the past
That's a pretty ____________ excuse - he could have gotten there if he'd really wanted
to.
A. blank B. bare C. raw D. thin
Key: D
thin = of poor quality; without an important quality
6. Getting away from the stresses of work would do you a ____________ of good.
A. sense B. taste C. virtue D. power
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Key: D
do sb a power of good = help someone physically or mentally
7. Don’t ____________ him on to join a gang: nothing could be worse for him!
A. egg B. toast C. butter D. knife
Key: A
egg sb on = strongly encourage someone to do something that might not be a very good
idea
The phrase ‘money doesn't buy happiness’ is a cautionary cliché that keeps us from
blindly lining your pockets with ____________ in the hope that we’ll feel happier.
A. stash B. hoard C. stock D. dosh
Key: D
line one’s pockets with dosh = to earn money using dishonest or illegal methods
Malaysians should embrace their natural generosity and not let hard times
____________ their spirit to help others in need.
A. dampen B. moisten C. drench D. deluge
Key: A
dampen your spirits = reduce your enthusiasm, cause you to lose interest
My first impression of Vanessa was that she was very charming and ____________; she
seemed totally at ease with people.
A. exuberant B. urbane C. aloof D. compassionate
Key: B
urbane = good at knowing what to say and how to behave in social situations; appearing
relaxed and confident
Apart from one or two ____________ of brilliance from Owen, England put on a rather
poor performance.
A. flashes B. spells C. storms D. strokes
Key: A
flash of something = a particular idea or feeling that suddenly comes into your mind or
shows in your face
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Key: B
snap up = to buy or obtain something quickly because it is cheap or you want it very
much
While some ___________ of endearment have remained popular, others like "tomato" or
"lambkin" have fallen out of style.
A. terms B. captions C. titles D. phrases
Key: A
A term of endearment is a word or phrase used to address or describe a person, animal or
inanimate object for which the speaker feels love or affection
Johnny was so nervous at his new school that when he introduced himself, he
___________ the first few words before he could speak smoothly again.
A. stammered B. mumbled C. giggled D. muttered
Key: A
stammer (v) = to speak with difficulty, repeating sounds or words and often stopping,
before saying things correctly
Annie has always worn her heart on her ___________ so it is not difficult to guess whom
she has a crush on.
A. collar B. face C. hat D. sleeve
Key: D
wear your heart on your sleeve = to make your feelings and emotions obvious rather than
hiding them
I need to meet with Jim before the negotiations to make sure that we will be on the same
___________ when we meet with the other company.
A. line B. boat C. page D. stage
Key: C
on the same page = to understand and agree with what is being done or suggested
The secret birthday party plan was about to be spoiled had Mary not ___________ in
time.
A. jacked in B. clammed up C. eked out D. slacked off
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Key: B
clam up = to suddenly stop talking or explaining something
12. In a ___________, you can use margarine, but it is better to use unsalted butter.
A. seed B. drip C. drop D. pinch
Key: D
Something that you can do in a pinch can be done if it is really necessary, but it will be
difficult, not perfect, or not what you would really like
After working a whole day in the summer
6 heat,
0 I would give my right ___________
for a cold drink right now.
A. mind B. ear C. arm D. hand
Key: C
I would give your right arm for sth/to do sth = like or need it very much
By detecting facial movements, the robot is able to ___________ important mood
information from factors such as speech pattern, skin moisture, and body language.
A. glean B. rankle C. reap D. spurn
Key: A
glean (v) = to obtain information, knowledge, etc., sometimes with difficulty and often
from various different places
There may be a ___________ of truth in what these kids say even though they are just
primary students.
A. pinch B. kernel C. speck D. crux
Key: B
kernel of sth = a very small part of something
Part 2.
The company expects to build 100 luxury apartments in two years, mostly targeting
___________ customers. (POCKET)
This poor province is a ___________ of crime and illegal immigration that has yet to be
controlled after many years. (BED)
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The Oscar prize represents a ___________ of his long acting career, which has started
from when he was just 17 years old. (STONE)
Climbers may experience difficulty breathing in the ___________ air at high altitudes.
(RARE)
No amount of ___________ succeeded in getting the soldier to reveal his identity.
(ARM)
Key:
DEEP-POCKETED (adj) = having a large amount of money to spend
HOTBED (n) = a place where a lot of a particular activity, especially something bad or
violent, is happening
CAPSTONE (n) = someone's greatest achievement or the greatest part of something
RAREFIED (adj) = containing less oxygen than usual
ARM-TWISTING (n) = behaviour in which you try to make someone do something by
threats or by persuading them
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TEST 22
That the boy’s idleness ___________ ill for his future is obvious to everyone apart from
his parents.
A. bodes B. heralds C. causes D. bears
Key: A
bode ill for sth = to be a bad sign for sth
The American runner came within ___________ distance of winning the cup but the
Chinese competitor suddenly surpassed him at the last minute.
A. adjoining B. spitting C. abutting D. neighbouring
Key: B
within spitting/touching/striking distance (of something) = very close to something 3.
I asked for an explanation and all I got was your ridiculous ___________ story.
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A. beef-and-bacon B. donkey-and-monkey C. cock-and-bull D.
duck-and-frog
cock and bull story = a story that is unlikely to be true but is used as an explanation or
excuse
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Some people say the company took them to the ___________ by charging double for
some services.
A. thrashers B. trashes D. breadline D. cleaners
Key: D
take somebody to the cleaners = to steal all of somebody’s money, etc., or to get it using
a trick
5. He was ___________ until someone criticised his mother, then he got extremely upset.
A. placid B. miffed C. unorthodox D. dejected
Key: A
placid (adj) = (of a person or an animal) not easily excited or annoyed
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I am not confident about my essay so I really want to know the professor’s

___________ on it.
A. take B. look C. brook D. catch
Key: A
take (n) [+ on sth] = the particular opinion or idea that somebody has about something
There was a(n) ___________ of scientific publication in the period 1645-1660 with
thousands of researches and experiments conducted.
A. acquiescence B. efflorescence C. effervescence D. convalescence
Key: B
efflorescence (n) = the production of a lot of sth, the most developed stage of sth
The weather in Con Dao during this month is very ___________ so we had better bring
both raincoats and sunscreen along.
A. fluctuating B. capricious C. wavering D. whimsical
Key: B
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capricious (adj) = changing suddenly and quickly
Andy’s dog can always ___________ the bullies in no time so he is now no longer afraid
of them anymore.
A. cast off B. wave off C. scrape off D. see off
Key: D
see off = to force somebody to leave a place, for example by threatening them or running
after them
I don't have my phone here to call so I will just come to the library ___________, hoping
that I can meet Mr. Khoi.
A. on spec B. on peg C. in rags D. at ranch
Key: A
on spec = taking a chance, without being sure that you will get what you want
Checking the data is the task nobody wants to be ___________, not only because it is
boring but it is also perplexing.
A. fiddled with B. regaled with C. parted with D. saddled with
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Key: D
saddle with = to give somebody/yourself an unpleasant responsibility, task, debt, etc.
The crew is ___________ its duty to protect the safety of its passengers by not providing
them with life jackets.
A. rescinding B. abrogating C. revoking D. repealing
Key: B
abrogate (v) = to fail to carry out a responsibility or duty, to avoid something that you
should do
It is unwise to believe everything written on the news, some might be misleading, some
might even be downright ___________.
A. obnoxious B. whimsical C. mendacious D. bewildering
Key: C
mendacious (adj) = not telling the truth
Diplomats are trying to ___________ the tense situation between the two nations
recently.
A. defuse B. defy C. destress D. descend
Key: A
defuse (v) = to stop a possibly dangerous or difficult situation from developing,
especially by making people less angry or nervous
___________ including stones and bottles were thrown at the police during the protest.
A. Missiles B. Cartridges C. Cartouches D. Partridges
Key: A
Missile (n) = sth used to throw at people to attack them.
Part 2.
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He lies ___________ on the couch after his binges, not aware of anything else happening
around. (SENSE)
Because I never accept any kinds of alcoholic drink, my friend gave me a
___________ look when I ordered champagne. (QUIZ)
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The ___________ army finally surrendered after failing to lift the siege the third time.
(BATTLE)
People who don't want to pay tax will exploit any ___________ in the tax regulations.
(HOLE)
It was a ___________ performance from start to finish since I kept stuttering as a result
of stage fright. (CRINGE)
Key:
INSENSATE (adj) = not aware of what you are doing or what is happening around you
QUIZZICAL (adj) = (of an expression) showing that you are slightly surprised
EMBATTLED (adj) = (of an army, a city, etc.) involved in war; surrounded by the
enemy
LOOPHOLE (n) = a mistake in the way a law, contract, etc. has been written that enables
people to legally avoid doing something that the law, contract, etc. had intended them to
do
CRINGE-WORTHY/CRINGE-MAKING (adj) = making you feel embarrassed or
uncomfortable
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TEST 23
I was really saved by the ___________ when the teacher moved the math test to next
week.
A. horn B. bell C. stone D. teeth
Key: B
saved by the bell = something that you say when a difficult situation ends suddenly
before you have to do or say something that you do not want to
Jody is 50 years old and still not married, I think she is destined to be an old
___________.
A. nun B. maid C. monk D. crow
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Key: B
old maid = a woman who has never married and is now no longer young
The minister is speaking with a ___________ tongue, promising support he will never
deliver.
A. sharp B. forked C. fake D. rosy
Key: B
speak with a forked tongue = to tell lies or say one thing and mean something else
The creative and intelligent boy came up with a solution entirely off his own
___________ instead of relying on the teacher’s hint.
A. bulb B. bat C. bag D. beat
Key: B
off your own bat = if you do something off your own bat, it is your own idea and you do
it without help or support from anyone else
That his father died in the car accident really hit the eight-year-old boy for
___________.
A. half B. nine C. six D. twice
Key: C
hit/knock somebody for six = to affect somebody very deeply, to upset or overwhelm
someone
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6. The saucepan fell onto the floor with a great ___________.

A. clatter B. clunk C. clink D. crackle
Key: A
clatter (n) = the sound of hard objects hitting against each other
How about a night in a charming ___________ windmill on the island of Milos,
watching the sunset over the sea, with a glass of retsina in hand and a plate of olives on
the table?
A. preserved B. customized C. dilapidated D. converted
Key: D
convert (v) = to be able to be changed from one form, purpose, or system to another
Relying heavily on farming, people in this village ___________ their vegetable gardens
very carefully.
A. attend B. tend C. maintain D. tender
Key: B
tend sb/sth = to care for somebody/something
Charles Babbage's "difference engine" is widely regarded as the ___________ of modern
computers.
A. precursor B. outrider C. precedent D. harbinger
Key: A
precursor (of/to something) = a person or thing that comes before somebody/something
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similar and that leads to or influences its development
10. As the sky darkened it soon became obvious that a violent storm was .
A. eminent B. impending C. offing D. impenitent
Key: B
The girl with end-stage heart failure underwent a heart transplant in a __________
attempt to save her.
A. last-gasp B. last-ditch C. last-minute D. last-breath
Key: B
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last-ditch (adj) = used to describe a final attempt to achieve something, when there is not
much hope of succeeding
The school shall erect regulations to implement gender equity education, and
___________ them.
A. promulgate B. incite C. heed D. irrigate
Key: A
promulgate (v) = to spread an idea, a belief, etc. among many people or to announce a
new law or system officially or publicly
I never dare to ___________ my duty even for once since I worked here due to the strict
staff appraisal criteria of the company.
A. duke B. whirl C. reel D. shirk
Key: D
shirk (v) = to avoid doing something you should do, especially because you are too lazy
The school authorities thought that taking a ___________ on undisciplined students will
make them more obedient, but this actually backfired in the end.
A. high hand B. hard line C. harsh heart D. tough grip
Key: B
hard line (n) = a strict policy or attitude
Although the project ___________ difficulties, everyone believes that their team will
eventually manage to succeed.
A. bristles with B. trifles with C. cripples with D. grapples with
Key: A
bristle with = to contain a large number of something
Part 2.
He is an old ___________ who likes to meddle with everybody's affairs in the
neighborhood. (BUSY)
Discrimination against women is deeply ___________ in our society and demands drastic
measures from the government to change. (BED)
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The teacher threatened to ___________ their phones if they kept using them in class.
(FISCAL)
She continued to ___________ him to forgive her, but it was to no avail. (SEEK)
You should dress in a way that ___________ a woman of your age, which is not so
gaudy. (FIT)
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BUSYBODY (n) = a person who is too interested in what other people are doing
EMBEDDED
embed (v) = to fix something in a substance or solid object
CONFISCATE (v) = to officially take something away from somebody, especially as a
punishment
BESEECH (v) = to ask somebody for something in an anxious way because you want or
need it very much
BEFITS
Befit (v) = to be suitable and good enough for somebody/something
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I am not able to go anywhere this weekend because I am up to my ____________ in

work.
A. neck B. nose C. waist D. ankle
Key: A
be up to one’s neck in sth = to be very busy
He says he has raised certain issues, and the government is debating those issues, and it is
very necessary that we ____________ these concerns.
A. lash out B. scroll over C. shrivel up D. mull over
mull something over = to spend time thinking carefully about a plan or proposal
Steve used to be easy to work with, but since his promotion he’s begun to______ .
A. throw his weight around B. throw in the towel
C. throw him off balance D. throw a monkey wrench in the works
throw one’s weight around = to assert oneself in a controlling, domineering, or

authoritarian manner
Both the favourite and then the second favourite pulled out. Naturally, we thought we
were ______ a chance.
A in with B up for C in for D up with
Key: A
be in with a chance = to have a good chance of achieving something
15. The manager hesitated to assign the job to the newcomer as he was__________ .
A. wet behind the ears B. feeling your ears burning C. ringing in

your ears D. keeping your ears open
Key: A
be wet behind the ears = to be immature, inexperienced, and naïve
Part 2.
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Many students consider coding as an utterly ____________ language distinct from

human language in general. (SCRUTINY)
Even at higher temperatures, there may be problems of having enough time for the solid
to fully ____________ as the system is cooling. (EQUAL)
Just because she’s read some ____________ paperback she thinks she’s some kind of
expert on the modus-operandi. (TRASH)
Staff felt as if they had been ____________ when they discovered the new management’s
plans. (WINK)
The defendant is a ____________ individual gripped by the dangerous delusion that his
opinion matters. (RANCOR)
Key:
INSCRUTABLE (adj) = impossible to understand
EQUILIBRATE (v) = to achieve equilibrium (= a state of balance) or to bring something
into equilibrium
TRASHY (adj) = of low quality; with little or no value
HOODWINKED
hoodwink (v) = to deceive or trick someone
5. CANTANKEROUS (adj) = arguing and complaining a lot
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TEST 39
Part 1.
1. Do not mention work to Ray, as it is a sore ____________ with him at the moment.
A. finger B. point C. place D. thumb Key: B
a sore point = a subject that someone prefers not to talk about because it makes them
angry or embarrassed
2. Distress calls were pouring in, thick and ____________, from all over the area
Key: C
thick and fast = quickly and in large numbers
3. She wouldn’t have heard anything. She is ____________.
A. stone-deaf B. rock-deaf C. post-deaf D. bat-deaf
stone deaf = completely unable to hear anything

4. During winter the shelters are full of people of no fixed ____________.
A. residence B. abode C. home D. domicile
be of no fixed abode = have no permanent home

Harry was offered a scholarship to study in Japan and he ____________ the opportunity
with both hands.
A. grasped B. grabbed C. held D. passed
grab = to take the opportunity to get, use, or enjoy something quickly
I thought I had made it ____________ that I didn’t wish to discuss this matter.
A. distinct B. plain C. frank D. straight
make it plain = to say something so that it is obvious what you mean
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The kids are ____________ in the steam-filled room, and the girl seems grateful for adult
conversation.
A. impinging on B. larking about C. ploughing ahead D. floating out
8. I slept badly last night and am feeling particularly ____________ this morning.
A. slow-witted B. far-reaching C. off-hand D. top-heavy
Key: A
slow-witted = not clever and therefore slow to notice or understand things
My first meal was days later because, as ever, the migraine ____________ after the
anaesthetic.
A. caved in B. chipped in C. gave in D. kicked in
kick in = start to have effect

9. Some people can just ____________ a cold, but my colds seem to linger for weeks
A. shrug off B. cough up C. pull through D. stamp out Key: A
shrug off = to get rid of something unpleasant that you do not want
10. It’s a good idea to ____________ people before taking them into your confidence
A. tumble to B. root out C. bank on D. size up Key: D
size up = to examine something or someone carefully and decide what you think about it,
him, or her
Nick's mom has turned her home into a halfway house for ____________ relatives and
stray dogs.
A. tumble-down B. downcast C. run-down D. down-and-out
6 0
down-and-out = a person without money, a home or a job, who lives on the streets
12. Here I sit ____________ - no food, no money, no anything
6 0
A. high and dry B. thick and thin C. huff and puff D. wear and tear
237
6 0
Key: A
high and dry = in a difficult situation, without help or money
The money was taken out of the bank in small amounts so as not to ____________
suspicion.
A. awake B. arouse C. instigate D. incite
Key: B
arouse = to cause someone to have a particular feeling
14. Because he was an ____________ criminal, he was sentenced to life imprisonment.
A. illegible B. impenetrable C. impermeable D. incorrigible
Key: D
incorrigible = bad and impossible to change or improve
15. She was a ____________Catholic and, so far as I am aware, morally unassailable.
A. firm B. devout C. staunch D. strict
Key: B
devout = believing strongly in a religion and obeying all its rules or principles
Part 2.
The New Year 2020’s ____________ show involves almost every famous face of the
country. (STAR)
Companies can be punished for making ____________ claims about their products.
(substance)
We can ____________ our timescale of the circulation by looking at the changes in
density surface of the salinity minimum. (robust)
It was a misery ____________ of a woman escaped from North Korea to which everyone
expressed their sorrow and sympathy. (memory)
They were ____________ in the tradition of 'public service' from their contact with older
regimes. (culture)
ALL-STAR (adj) = having or including famous actors or players
238
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UNSUBSTANTIATED (adj) = not supported by facts

CORROBORATE (v) = to add proof to an account, statement, idea, etc. with new
information
MEMOIR (n) = a book or other piece of writing based on the writer's personal knowledge
of famous people, places, or events
ACCULTURATED
acculturate (v) = to change so that you become more like people from a different culture,
or to make someone change in this way
239
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TEST 40
Part 1.
1. I don't know why she puts up with the way he ____________ her.
A. walks in on B. walks away with C. walks off with D.
walks all over
walk all over sb = treat sb with no respect

I have to ____________ the state driving laws because I have to take my driving test
tomorrow.
A. bleat on about B. bone up on C. cast around for D. home in on
Key: B
bone up on sth = to learn more about a particular topic, usually in preparation for
something
3. Don't ____________ your problems. It's better to talk them out.
A. bottle up B. close in C. eat into D. fob off
bottle up sth = to refuse to talk about something that angers or worries you
4. We are not in a ____________ hurry, so let’s have another coffee.
A. dashing B. racing C. rushing D. tearing
be in a tearing hurry = to be going somewhere very quickly, usually because you are late
5. We should all ____________ when advertisers attempt to use unfair practices.
6 0
A. make a stand B. make a comeback C. make amends D.
make a deal
make a stand = hold firm against something or someone

People turned out in ____________ to watch the parade on the Independence Day.
240
6 0
A. volume B. mass C. force D. bulk

Key: C
in force = in large numbers
Not being able to find my phone number is a pretty____________ excuse for not
contacting me.
A. fragile B. frail C. faint D. feeble
feeble = not effective or good

8. The problem ____________ because neither side was prepared to compromise.
A. amassed B. escalated C. proliferated D. enhanced Key: B
escalate = to become or make something become greater or more serious

9. I couldn't stop myself from ____________ with boredom during the lecture.
A. sighing B. gasping C. panting D. blowing Key: A
sigh = to breathe out slowly and noisily, expressing tiredness, sadness, pleasure, etc
10. Money was short and people survived by ____________ and saving.
A. scrimping B. scavenging C. scouring D. scrounging
scrimp and save = manage to live on very little money in order to pay for something 11.
She didn’t show even a ____________ of emotion when the court found her guilty.
A. gleam B. wink C. flicker D. flash
6 0
flicker = a feeling or expression of an emotion or quality that does not last very
long 12. He let it ____________ that the Prime Minister was a close friend of his.
6 0
A. announce B. talk C. drop D. infer Key: C
241
6 0
let sth drop = say more about sth

We don’t have a secretary ____________, but we do have a student who comes in to do a
bit of filing.
A. as such B. the least bit C. whatsoever D. little more
as such = using the exact meaning of the word or phrase
14. It’s the ____________ of stupidity to go walking in the mountains in this weather.
A. height B. depth C. source D. matter
Key: A
the height of sth = used to say that something is an extreme example of something
I really don’t want to get involved in your problems. Why are you ____________ me into
it?
A. pulling B. dragging C. wrenching D. towing
Key: B
drag sb into sth = to force someone to become involved in an unpleasant or difficult
situation
Part 2.
When we arrived, the party was in full swing and the room was ____________. (BUZZ)
They found it ____________ amusing that this hot-shot chef couldn't even use a tomato
slicer. (ROAR)
Say after me," he would ____________, and the class dutifully repeated whatever he
said. (TONE)
Because opera is a collaborative genre, the mechanisms of its production and its resulting
meaning(s) are often heteroglossic or at best ____________. (GAIN)
Emotionality is also central in language choice for positive affect, such as
____________ or praise for one's partner or children. (DEAR)
Key:
ABUZZ (adj) = filled with noise and activity
UPROARIOUSLY (adv) = in an extremely noisy and confused way
242
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INTONE (v) = to say something slowly and seriously in a voice that does not rise or fall
much
UNGAINLY (adj) = awkward, clumsy or ungraceful
ENDEARMENTS
endearment (n) = a word or phrase that you use to show that you love someone
243
6 0

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FANPAGE TÀI LIỆU TIẾNG ANH NÂNG CAO

A. Clean B. Purify C. Liberate D. Cleanse

A. holding her thumb B. on high skies C. coming up

be on a tear = engaged in a continuous, fast-paced procession of actions or events,

A. out for B. out on C. back with D. up with

A. sharing B. personal C. advice D. problem

A. empirical B. informed C. substantive D. static

FANPAGE TÀI LIỆU TIẾNG ANH NÂNG CAO

A. sharing B. personal C. advice D. problem

A. empirical B. informed C. substantive D. static

FANPAGE TÀI LIỆU TIẾNG ANH NÂNG CAO

Although he appeared to enjoy a jet-setting life, he ___________ publicity and avoided

A. hoard B. curry C. drag D. butter

curry favour (with somebody) (disapproving) = to try to get somebody to like or

As an inevitable effect of globalization, small countries have no choice but to

FANPAGE TÀI LIỆU TIẾNG ANH NÂNG CAO

Although he appeared to enjoy a jet-setting life, he ___________ publicity and avoided

A. hoard B. curry C. drag D. butter

curry favour (with somebody) (disapproving) = to try to get somebody to like or

FANPAGE TÀI LIỆU TIẾNG ANH NÂNG CAO

As an inevitable effect of globalization, small countries have no choice but to

faint-hearted (adj) = not being confident or brave enough; afraid of failing

FANPAGE TÀI LIỆU TIẾNG ANH NÂNG CAO

swarm with somebody/something = to be full of people or things

FANPAGE TÀI LIỆU TIẾNG ANH NÂNG CAO

MOVIEMAKING (n) = the act or process of making a film

A. going B. making C. fleeing D. flying

no something to speak of = not enough of something to make it worth talking about:

on the grounds that = for the reason that

advance planning/warning/booking etc = planning/warning/booking etc that is done

A. inexhaustible B. tiresome C. inexorable D. indefatigable Key: D

It is also of great importance in ____________ and material science in the production of

A. goat B. horse C. dog D. beetle Key: A

get one’s goat = annoy sb

A. properly B. rashly C. sorely D. aptly

personality clash = encounter between people whose characters/overall behaviour conflict

roll in = to arrive in great numbers or amounts

A. scraping by B. putting aside C. bailing out D. tiding over Key: A

a shade = a little; slightly

I am not confident about my essay so I really want to know the professor’s

FANPAGE TÀI LIỆU TIẾNG ANH NÂNG CAO

6. The saucepan fell onto the floor with a great ___________.

I am not able to go anywhere this weekend because I am up to my ____________ in

throw one’s weight around = to assert oneself in a controlling, domineering, or

A. wet behind the ears B. feeling your ears burning C. ringing in

Many students consider coding as an utterly ____________ language distinct from

stone deaf = completely unable to hear anything

be of no fixed abode = have no permanent home

kick in = start to have effect

A. shrug off B. cough up C. pull through D. stamp out Key: A

A. tumble to B. root out C. bank on D. size up Key: D

12. Here I sit ____________ - no food, no money, no anything

ALL-STAR (adj) = having or including famous actors or players

UNSUBSTANTIATED (adj) = not supported by facts

walk all over sb = treat sb with no respect

5. We should all ____________ when advertisers attempt to use unfair practices.

make a stand = hold firm against something or someone

A. volume B. mass C. force D. bulk

feeble = not effective or good

A. amassed B. escalated C. proliferated D. enhanced Key: B

escalate = to become or make something become greater or more serious

A. sighing B. gasping C. panting D. blowing Key: A

let sth drop = say more about sth