Workplace Core: Customers & service

The words

Every word in this set, with what it means. Tap a word to hear it.

advertise

to tell the public about a product or service in order to persuade them to buy it

“A clear example helps learners use “advertise” in a sentence about the customer-service conversation.”

kidnap

to take someone somewhere illegally by force, often in order to get money for returning them

“A clear example helps learners use “kidnap” in a sentence about the customer-service conversation.”

retail

the sale of goods in shops to customers, for their own use and not for selling to anyone else

“The speaker explains how “retail” is used in a report about the customer-service conversation.”

bargain

to discuss the conditions of a sale, agreement etc, for example to try and get a lower price

“In the customer-service conversation discussion, the verb “bargain” describes an action or change.”

depend

to need the support, help, or existence of someone or something in order to exist, be healthy, be successful etc

“In the customer-service conversation discussion, the verb “depend” describes an action or change.”

customer

someone who buys goods or services from a shop, company etc

“Learners saw the word “customer” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

advertisement

a picture, set of words, or a short film, which is intended to persuade people to buy a product or use a service, or that gives information about a job that is available, an event that is going to happen etc

“A clear definition of the word “advertisement” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

consumer

someone who buys and uses products and services

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “consumer.””

discount

a reduction in the usual price of something

“The speaker used the word “discount” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

defence

something that you say or do in order to support someone or something that is being criticized

“Learners saw the word “defence” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

product

something that is grown or made in a factory in large quantities, usually in order to be sold

“The speaker used the word “product” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

dependence

when you depend on the help and support of someone or something else in order to exist or be successful

“A clear definition of the word “dependence” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

special

a lower price than usual for a particular product for a short period of time

“The speaker used the word “special” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

adapt

to gradually change your behaviour and attitudes in order to be successful in a new situation

“Learners hear “adapt” while following the customer-service conversation explanation.”

modify

to make small changes to something in order to improve it and make it more suitable or effective

“In the customer-service conversation discussion, the verb “modify” describes an action or change.”

survey

to ask a large number of people questions in order to find out their attitudes or opinions

“Learners hear “survey” while following the customer-service conversation explanation.”

carry

to hold something in your hand or arms, or support it as you take it somewhere

“The speaker explains how “carry” is used in a report about the customer-service conversation.”

pole

a long stick or post usually made of wood or metal, often set upright in the ground to support something

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “pole.””

appeal

to make a serious public request for help, money, information etc

“A clear example helps learners use “appeal” in a sentence about the customer-service conversation.”

influence

the power to affect the way someone or something develops, behaves, or thinks, without using direct force or orders

“The speaker used the word “influence” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

reinforce

to give support to an opinion, idea, or feeling, and make it stronger

“The speaker explains how “reinforce” is used in a report about the customer-service conversation.”

routine

the usual order in which you do things, or the things you regularly do

“Learners saw the word “routine” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

restore

to make something return to its former state or condition

“In the customer-service conversation discussion, the verb “restore” describes an action or change.”

undercut

to sell goods or a service at a lower price than another company

“Learners hear “undercut” while following the customer-service conversation explanation.”

action

the process of doing something, especially in order to achieve a particular thing

“Learners saw the word “action” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

faithful

remaining loyal to a particular person, belief, political party etc and continuing to support them

“During the customer-service conversation discussion, “faithful” signals a particular quality.”

reduction

a decrease in the size, price, or amount of something, or the act of decreasing something

“The speaker used the word “reduction” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

delivery

the act of bringing goods, letters etc to a particular person or place, or the things that are brought

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “delivery.””

alcohol

the chemical substance in alcoholic drinks that can make you drunk, which is also used in other types of products

“Learners saw the word “alcohol” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

image

the opinion people have of a person, organization, product etc, or the way a person, organization etc seems to be to the public

“A clear definition of the word “image” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

order

the way that things or events are arranged in relation to each other, so that one thing is first, another thing is second etc

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “order.””

sample

to taste food or drink in order to see what it is like

“Learners hear “sample” while following the customer-service conversation explanation.”

purchase

something you buy, or the act of buying it

“A clear definition of the word “purchase” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

user

someone or something that uses a product, service etc

“A clear definition of the word “user” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

concession

something that you allow someone to have in order to end an argument or a disagreement

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “concession.””

patent

to obtain a special document giving you the right to make or sell a new invention or product

“In the customer-service conversation discussion, the verb “patent” describes an action or change.”

precaution

something you do in order to prevent something dangerous or unpleasant from happening

“Learners saw the word “precaution” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

check

to do something in order to find out whether something really is correct, true, or in good condition

“Learners hear “check” while following the customer-service conversation explanation.”

conservative

someone who supports or is a member of the Conservative Party in Britain

“The speaker used the word “conservative” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

lease

a legal agreement which allows you to use a building, car etc for a period of time, in return for rent

“Learners saw the word “lease” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

petition

a written request signed by a lot of people, asking someone in authority to do something or change something

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “petition.””

deliver

to take goods, letters, packages etc to a particular place or person

“A clear example helps learners use “deliver” in a sentence about the customer-service conversation.”

emigrate

to leave your own country in order to live in another country

“Learners hear “emigrate” while following the customer-service conversation explanation.”

ritual

a ceremony that is always performed in the same way, in order to mark an important religious or social occasion

“The speaker used the word “ritual” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

stand

to support yourself on your feet or be in an upright position

“Learners hear “stand” while following the customer-service conversation explanation.”

subsidy

money that is paid by a government or organization to make prices lower, reduce the cost of producing goods etc

“A clear definition of the word “subsidy” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

utility

a service such as gas or electricity provided for people to use

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “utility.””

chart

to record information about a situation or set of events over a period of time, in order to see how it changes or develops

“Learners hear “chart” while following the customer-service conversation explanation.”

exploit

to treat someone unfairly by asking them to do things for you, but giving them very little in return – used to show disapproval

“The speaker explains how “exploit” is used in a report about the customer-service conversation.”

productive

relating to the production of goods, crops, or wealth

“The speaker uses “productive” to characterize the customer-service conversation situation.”

advocate

someone who publicly supports someone or something

“A clear definition of the word “advocate” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

drawback

a disadvantage of a situation, plan, product etc

“A clear definition of the word “drawback” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

inclusive

an inclusive price or cost includes everything

“Researchers describe the customer-service conversation evidence as inclusive.”

commodity

a product that is bought and sold

“The speaker used the word “commodity” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

marketing

the activity of deciding how to advertise a product, what price to charge for it etc, or the type of job in which you do this

“Learners saw the word “marketing” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

monopoly

the complete control of trade in particular goods or the supply of a particular service; a type of goods or a service that is controlled in this way

“The speaker used the word “monopoly” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

request

a polite or formal demand for something

“The speaker used the word “request” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

brand

a type of product made by a particular company, that has a particular name or design

“A clear definition of the word “brand” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

business

the activity of making money by producing or buying and selling goods, or providing services

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “business.””

collaborate

to work together with a person or group in order to achieve something, especially in science or art

“In the customer-service conversation discussion, the verb “collaborate” describes an action or change.”

cost

to calculate the total price of something or decide how much the price of something should be

“The speaker explains how “cost” is used in a report about the customer-service conversation.”

cover

to put something over or be over something in order to hide, close, or protect it

“A clear example helps learners use “cover” in a sentence about the customer-service conversation.”

cunning

someone who is cunning is clever and good at deceiving people in order to get what they want

“Researchers describe the customer-service conversation evidence as cunning.”

devote

to use all or most of your time, effort etc in order to do something or help someone

“A clear example helps learners use “devote” in a sentence about the customer-service conversation.”

donate

to give something, especially money, to a person or an organization in order to help them

“A clear example helps learners use “donate” in a sentence about the customer-service conversation.”

hammer

to hit something with a hammer in order to force it into a particular position or shape

“Learners hear “hammer” while following the customer-service conversation explanation.”

head

the top part of your body that has your face at the front and is supported by your neck

“Learners saw the word “head” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

imitate

to copy the way someone behaves, speaks, moves etc, especially in order to make people laugh

“The speaker explains how “imitate” is used in a report about the customer-service conversation.”

invade

to enter a country, town, or area using military force, in order to take control of it

“A clear example helps learners use “invade” in a sentence about the customer-service conversation.”

lick

to move your tongue across the surface of something in order to eat it, wet it, clean it etc

“A clear example helps learners use “lick” in a sentence about the customer-service conversation.”

moreover

in addition – used to introduce information that adds to or supports what has previously been said

“The result was described moreover in the final customer-service conversation paragraph.”

negotiate

to discuss something in order to reach an agreement, especially in business or politics

“In the customer-service conversation discussion, the verb “negotiate” describes an action or change.”

nod

to move your head up and down, especially in order to show agreement or understanding

“The speaker explains how “nod” is used in a report about the customer-service conversation.”

production

the process of making or growing things to be sold, especially in large quantities

“A clear definition of the word “production” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

sequence

the order that something happens or exists in, or the order it is supposed to happen or exist in

“The speaker used the word “sequence” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

tailor

someone whose job is to make men’s clothes, that are measured to fit each customer perfectly

“A clear definition of the word “tailor” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

typewriter

a machine with keys that you press in order to print letters of the alphabet onto paper

“A clear definition of the word “typewriter” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

analyse

to examine or think about something carefully, in order to understand it

“The speaker explains how “analyse” is used in a report about the customer-service conversation.”

bank

a business that keeps and lends money and provides other financial services

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “bank.””

bill

a written list showing how much you have to pay for services you have received, work that has been done etc

“A clear definition of the word “bill” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

column

a tall solid upright stone post used to support a building or as a decoration

“Learners saw the word “column” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

cycle

a number of related events that happen again and again in the same order

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “cycle.””

deduce

to use the knowledge and information you have in order to understand something or form an opinion about it

“Learners hear “deduce” while following the customer-service conversation explanation.”

dump

to get rid of goods by selling them in a foreign country at a much lower price

“Learners hear “dump” while following the customer-service conversation explanation.”

elbow

to push someone with your elbows, especially in order to move past them

“The speaker explains how “elbow” is used in a report about the customer-service conversation.”

follower

someone who believes in a particular system of ideas, or who supports a leader who teaches these ideas

“Learners saw the word “follower” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

inspect

to examine something carefully in order to find out more about it or to find out what is wrong with it

“Learners hear “inspect” while following the customer-service conversation explanation.”

package

something wrapped in paper, packed in a box, and then sent by mail or delivered

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “package.””

signal

a sound or action that you make in order to give information to someone or tell them to do something

“Learners saw the word “signal” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

span

the part of a bridge, arch etc that goes across from one support to another

“Learners saw the word “span” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

torture

to deliberately hurt someone in order to force them to give you information, to punish them, or to be cruel

“The speaker explains how “torture” is used in a report about the customer-service conversation.”

upright

a long piece of wood or metal that stands straight up and supports something

“A clear definition of the word “upright” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

activity

things that people do, especially in order to achieve a particular aim

“The speaker used the word “activity” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

bid

to offer to pay a particular price for goods, especially in an auction

“A clear example helps learners use “bid” in a sentence about the customer-service conversation.”

break

a period of time when you stop working in order to rest, eat etc

“The speaker used the word “break” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

chase

to quickly follow someone or something in order to catch them

“In the customer-service conversation discussion, the verb “chase” describes an action or change.”

cheat

to behave in a dishonest way in order to win or to get an advantage, especially in a competition, game, or examination

“The speaker explains how “cheat” is used in a report about the customer-service conversation.”

correction

a change made in something in order to make it right or better

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “correction.””

faculty

a department or group of related departments within a university

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “faculty.””

generous

someone who is generous is willing to give money, spend time etc, in order to help people or give them pleasure

“The report describes the customer-service conversation issue as generous.”

grade

a particular level of quality that a product, material etc has

“A clear definition of the word “grade” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

merchandise

to try to sell goods or services using methods such as advertising

“A clear example helps learners use “merchandise” in a sentence about the customer-service conversation.”

mine

to dig large holes in the ground in order to remove coal, gold etc

“The speaker explains how “mine” is used in a report about the customer-service conversation.”

packet

a small flat package that is sent by post or delivered to someone

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “packet.””

support

to say that you agree with an idea, group, or person, and usually to help them because you want them to succeed

“The speaker explains how “support” is used in a report about the customer-service conversation.”

buy

to pay money to someone, especially someone in a position of authority, in order to persuade them to do something dishonest

“In the customer-service conversation discussion, the verb “buy” describes an action or change.”

cheap

not at all expensive, or lower in price than you expected

“The speaker uses “cheap” to characterize the customer-service conversation situation.”

complaint

a statement in which someone complains about something

“A clear definition of the word “complaint” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

freeze

a time when people are not allowed to increase prices or pay

“The speaker used the word “freeze” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

key

a small specially shaped piece of metal that you put into a lock and turn in order to lock or unlock a door, start a car etc

“The speaker used the word “key” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

loyal

always supporting your friends, principles, country etc

“The speaker uses “loyal” to characterize the customer-service conversation situation.”

rely

to depend on something in order to continue to live or exist

“In the customer-service conversation discussion, the verb “rely” describes an action or change.”

depreciation

a reduction in the value or price of something

“A clear definition of the word “depreciation” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

example

a specific fact, idea, person, or thing that is used to explain or support a general idea, or to show what is typical of a larger group

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “example.””

rearrange

to change the position or order of things

“A clear example helps learners use “rearrange” in a sentence about the customer-service conversation.”

trough

a short period of low activity, low prices etc

“The speaker used the word “trough” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

badge

a small piece of metal, cloth, or plastic with a picture or words on it, worn to show rank, membership of a group, support for a political idea etc

“A clear definition of the word “badge” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

trademark

a special name, sign, or word that is marked on a product to show that it is made by a particular company, that cannot be used by any other company

“A clear definition of the word “trademark” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

analysis

a process in which a doctor makes someone talk about their past experiences, relationships etc in order to help them with mental or emotional problems

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “analysis.””

protein

one of several natural substances that exist in food such as meat, eggs, and beans, and which your body needs in order to grow and remain strong and healthy

“The speaker used the word “protein” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

regulation

an official rule or order

“Learners saw the word “regulation” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

ask

to speak or write to someone in order to get an answer, information, or a solution

“A clear example helps learners use “ask” in a sentence about the customer-service conversation.”

foundation

the solid layer of cement , bricks, stones etc that is put under a building to support it

“A clear definition of the word “foundation” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

further

to take action at a more serious or higher level, especially in order to get the result you want

“The speaker explained the customer-service conversation change further.”

invasion

when the army of one country enters another country by force, in order to take control of it

“A clear definition of the word “invasion” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

stir

to move a liquid or substance around with a spoon or stick in order to mix it together

“Learners hear “stir” while following the customer-service conversation explanation.”

dependent

needing someone or something in order to exist, be successful, be healthy etc

“During the customer-service conversation discussion, “dependent” signals a particular quality.”

messenger

someone whose job is to deliver messages or documents, or someone who takes a message to someone else

“The speaker used the word “messenger” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

reform

a change or changes made to a system or organization in order to improve it

“A clear definition of the word “reform” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

supplement

to add something, especially to what you earn or eat, in order to increase it to an acceptable level

“The speaker explains how “supplement” is used in a report about the customer-service conversation.”

alphabet

a set of letters, arranged in a particular order, and used in writing

“The speaker used the word “alphabet” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

exert

to use your power, influence etc in order to make something happen

“In the customer-service conversation discussion, the verb “exert” describes an action or change.”

lest

in order to make sure that something will not happen

“In this customer-service conversation, the word “lest” helps express a precise idea.”

reduce

to make something smaller or less in size, amount, or price

“In the customer-service conversation discussion, the verb “reduce” describes an action or change.”

materialism

the belief that money and possessions are more important than art, religion, moral beliefs etc – used in order to show disapproval

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “materialism.””

necessity

something that you need to have in order to live

“A clear definition of the word “necessity” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

border

The border between two countries or regions is the dividing line between them. Sometimes the border also refers to the land close to this line.

“Learners saw the word “border” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

rib

to furnish or support with a rib or ribs

“The speaker explains how “rib” is used in a report about the customer-service conversation.”

alienate

to do something that makes someone unfriendly or unwilling to support you

“A clear example helps learners use “alienate” in a sentence about the customer-service conversation.”

directory

a book or list of names, facts etc, usually arranged in alphabetical order

“The speaker used the word “directory” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

fraud

the crime of deceiving people in order to gain something such as money or goods

“Learners saw the word “fraud” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

negotiable

an offer, price, contract etc that is negotiable can be discussed and changed before being agreed on

“Researchers describe the customer-service conversation evidence as negotiable.”

contribution

something that you give or do in order to help something be successful

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “contribution.””

endorse

to express formal support or approval for someone or something

“In the customer-service conversation discussion, the verb “endorse” describes an action or change.”

inflation

a continuing increase in prices, or the rate at which prices increase

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “inflation.””

subscribe

to pay money, usually once a year, to have copies of a newspaper or magazine sent to you, or to have some other service

“Learners hear “subscribe” while following the customer-service conversation explanation.”

contend

to compete against someone in order to gain something

“A clear example helps learners use “contend” in a sentence about the customer-service conversation.”

productivity

the rate at which goods are produced, and the amount produced, especially in relation to the work, time, and money needed to produce them

“Learners saw the word “productivity” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

ally

to help and support other people or countries, especially in a war or disagreement

“Learners hear “ally” while following the customer-service conversation explanation.”

cheer

to shout as a way of showing happiness, praise, approval, or support of someone or something

“A clear example helps learners use “cheer” in a sentence about the customer-service conversation.”

curb

to control or limit something in order to prevent it from having a harmful effect

“In the customer-service conversation discussion, the verb “curb” describes an action or change.”

escort

a person or a group of people or vehicles that go with someone in order to protect or guard them

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “escort.””

mailbox

a box, usually outside a house, where someone’s letters are delivered or collected

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “mailbox.””

myth

an ancient story, especially one invented in order to explain natural or historical events

“Learners saw the word “myth” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

outlay

the amount of money that you have to spend in order to start a new business, activity etc

“Learners saw the word “outlay” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

patron

someone who supports the activities of an organization, for example by giving money

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “patron.””

patronage

the support, especially financial support, that is given to an organization or activity by a patron

“The speaker used the word “patronage” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

poultry

birds such as chickens and ducks that are kept on farms in order to produce eggs and meat

“A clear definition of the word “poultry” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

preach

to talk about a religious subject in a public place, especially in a church during a service

“A clear example helps learners use “preach” in a sentence about the customer-service conversation.”

proofread

to read through something that is written or printed in order to correct any mistakes in it

“Learners hear “proofread” while following the customer-service conversation explanation.”

research

to study a subject in detail, especially in order to discover new facts or test new ideas

“The speaker explains how “research” is used in a report about the customer-service conversation.”

slander

to say false things about someone in order to damage other people’s good opinion of them

“The speaker explains how “slander” is used in a report about the customer-service conversation.”

swap

a situation in which you give something to someone and get another thing in return

“A clear definition of the word “swap” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

chaos

a situation in which everything is happening in a confused way and nothing is organized or arranged in order

“Learners saw the word “chaos” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

cite

to mention something as an example, especially one that supports, proves, or explains an idea or situation

“The speaker explains how “cite” is used in a report about the customer-service conversation.”

compulsory

something that is compulsory must be done because it is the law or because someone in authority orders you to

“The speaker uses “compulsory” to characterize the customer-service conversation situation.”

consignment

a quantity of goods that are sent somewhere, especially in order to be sold

“The speaker used the word “consignment” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

dealer

someone who buys and sells a particular product, especially an expensive one

“The speaker used the word “dealer” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

decree

an official order or decision, especially one made by the ruler of a country

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “decree.””

facility

Facilities are buildings, pieces of equipment, or services that are provided for a particular purpose

“The speaker used the word “facility” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

favour

something that you do for someone in order to help them or be kind to them

“A clear definition of the word “favour” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

hail

to call to someone in order to greet them or try to attract their attention

“Learners hear “hail” while following the customer-service conversation explanation.”

immigration

the process of entering another country in order to live there permanently

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “immigration.””

intervene

to become involved in an argument, fight, or other difficult situation in order to change what happens

“In the customer-service conversation discussion, the verb “intervene” describes an action or change.”

kidney

one of the two organs in your lower back that separate waste products from your blood and make urine

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “kidney.””

liner

a piece of material used inside something, especially in order to keep it clean

“Learners saw the word “liner” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

questionnaire

a written set of questions which you give to a large number of people in order to collect information

“A clear definition of the word “questionnaire” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

revamp

to change something in order to improve it and make it seem more modern

“A clear example helps learners use “revamp” in a sentence about the customer-service conversation.”

revenge

something you do in order to punish someone who has harmed or offended you

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “revenge.””

ruthless

so determined to get what you want that you do not care if you have to hurt other people in order to do it

“Researchers describe the customer-service conversation evidence as ruthless.”

swerve

to make a sudden sideways movement while moving forwards, usually in order to avoid hitting something

“In the customer-service conversation discussion, the verb “swerve” describes an action or change.”

chapel

a small church, or a room in a hospital, prison, big church etc in which Christians pray and have religious services

“The speaker used the word “chapel” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

exposition

a large public event at which you show or sell products, art etc

“Learners saw the word “exposition” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

fare

the price you pay to travel somewhere by bus, train, plane etc

“Learners saw the word “fare” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

middleman

someone who buys things in order to sell them to someone else, or who helps to arrange business deals for other people

“A clear definition of the word “middleman” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

preferential

preferential treatment, rates etc are deliberately different in order to give an advantage to particular people

“The speaker uses “preferential” to characterize the customer-service conversation situation.”

pretext

a false reason given for an action, in order to hide the real reason

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “pretext.””

sacrifice

to willingly stop having something you want or doing something you like in order to get something more important

“The speaker explains how “sacrifice” is used in a report about the customer-service conversation.”

shrug

to raise and then lower your shoulders in order to show that you do not know something or do not care about something

“The speaker explains how “shrug” is used in a report about the customer-service conversation.”

logistics

the practical arrangements that are needed in order to make a plan that involves a lot of people and equipment successful

“The speaker used the word “logistics” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

pay

to give someone money for something you buy or for a service

“Learners hear “pay” while following the customer-service conversation explanation.”

refund

to give someone their money back, especially because they are not satisfied with the goods or services they have paid for

“In the customer-service conversation discussion, the verb “refund” describes an action or change.”

retailer

a person or business that sells goods to customers in a shop

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “retailer.””

return

to go or come back to a place where you were before

“In the customer-service conversation discussion, the verb “return” describes an action or change.”

running

a machine that is in running order is working correctly

“The speaker uses “running” to characterize the customer-service conversation situation.”

table

a piece of furniture with a flat top supported by legs

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “table.””

tease

to laugh at someone and make jokes in order to have fun by embarrassing them, either in a friendly way or in an unkind way

“Learners hear “tease” while following the customer-service conversation explanation.”

clutch

the pedal that you press with your foot when driving a vehicle in order to change gear , or the part of the vehicle that this controls

“A clear definition of the word “clutch” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

dam

a special wall built across a river or stream to stop the water from flowing, especially in order to make a lake or produce electricity

“Learners saw the word “dam” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

exploratory

done in order to find out more about something

“The speaker uses “exploratory” to characterize the customer-service conversation situation.”

infrastructure

the basic systems and structures that a country or organization needs in order to work properly, for example roads, railways, banks etc

“The speaker used the word “infrastructure” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

orderly

someone who does unskilled jobs in a hospital

“The speaker used the word “orderly” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

outlaw

someone who has done something illegal, and who is hiding in order to avoid punishment – used especially about criminals in the past

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “outlaw.””

overdue

not done, paid, returned etc by the time expected

“Researchers describe the customer-service conversation evidence as overdue.”

spend

to use your money to pay for goods or services

“Learners hear “spend” while following the customer-service conversation explanation.”

trick

something you do in order to deceive someone

“The speaker used the word “trick” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

deduction

the process of using the knowledge or information you have in order to understand something or form an opinion, or the opinion that you form

“A clear definition of the word “deduction” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

summon

to order someone to come to a place

“A clear example helps learners use “summon” in a sentence about the customer-service conversation.”

tax

an amount of money that you must pay to the government according to your income, property, goods etc and that is used to pay for public services

“The speaker used the word “tax” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

depreciate

to decrease in value or price

“Learners hear “depreciate” while following the customer-service conversation explanation.”

frontier

the border of a country

“The speaker used the word “frontier” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

sale

when you sell something

“The speaker used the word “sale” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

service

the official system for providing something, especially something that everyone in a country needs to have, or the official organization that provides it

“The speaker used the word “service” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

distil

If a liquid such as whisky or water is distilled, it is heated until it changes into steam or vapour and then cooled until it becomes liquid again. This is usually done in order to make it pure.

“The speaker explains how “distil” is used in a report about the customer-service conversation.”

ammonia

a clear liquid with a strong bad smell that is used for cleaning or in cleaning products

“Learners saw the word “ammonia” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

arm

to provide weapons for yourself, an army, a country etc in order to prepare for a fight or a war

“In the customer-service conversation discussion, the verb “arm” describes an action or change.”

borderline

having qualities of both one situation, state etc and another more extreme situation or state

“Researchers describe the customer-service conversation evidence as borderline.”

checkpoint

a place, especially on a border, where an official person examines vehicles or people

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “checkpoint.””

communist

someone who is a member of a political party that supports communism, or who believes in communism

“A clear definition of the word “communist” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

disorder

a mental or physical illness which prevents part of your body from working properly

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “disorder.””

err

to be more careful or safe than is necessary, in order to make sure that nothing bad happens

“The speaker explains how “err” is used in a report about the customer-service conversation.”

glove

a piece of clothing that you wear on your hand in order to protect it or keep it warm

“The speaker used the word “glove” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

introductory

said or written at the beginning of a book, speech etc in order to explain what it is about

“Researchers describe the customer-service conversation evidence as introductory.”

invitation

a written or spoken request to someone, inviting them to go somewhere or do something

“The speaker used the word “invitation” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

Jupiter

the planet that is fifth in order from the sun and is the largest in the solar system

“A clear definition of the word “jupiter” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

offset

to use one cost, payment or situation in order to cancel or reduce the effect of another

“A clear example helps learners use “offset” in a sentence about the customer-service conversation.”

overrule

to change an order or decision that you think is wrong, using your official power

“In the customer-service conversation discussion, the verb “overrule” describes an action or change.”

practise

to do an activity, often regularly, in order to improve your skill or to prepare for a test

“A clear example helps learners use “practise” in a sentence about the customer-service conversation.”

sermon

a talk given as part of a Christian church service, usually on a religious or moral subject

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “sermon.””

sift

to put flour, sugar etc through a sieve or similar container in order to remove large pieces

“Learners hear “sift” while following the customer-service conversation explanation.”

spine

the row of bones down the centre of your back that supports your body and protects your spinal cord

“A clear definition of the word “spine” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

staircase

a set of stairs inside a building with its supports and the side parts that you hold on to

“A clear definition of the word “staircase” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

submerge

to make yourself very busy doing something, especially in order to forget about something else

“Learners hear “submerge” while following the customer-service conversation explanation.”

tribute

something that you say, do, or give in order to express your respect or admiration for someone

“A clear definition of the word “tribute” helped the group discuss the customer-service conversation topic.”

untiring

working very hard for a long period of time in order to do something – used to show approval

“The report describes the customer-service conversation issue as untiring.”

wave

to raise your arm and move your hand from side to side in order to make someone notice you

“A clear example helps learners use “wave” in a sentence about the customer-service conversation.”

willpower

the ability to control your mind and body in order to achieve something that you want to do

“The speaker used the word “willpower” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

yardstick

something that you compare another thing with, in order to judge how good or successful it is

“Learners saw the word “yardstick” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

advisable

something that is advisable should be done in order to avoid problems or risks

“During the customer-service conversation discussion, “advisable” signals a particular quality.”

backup

Backup consists of extra equipment, resources, or people that you can get help or support from if necessary

“Learners saw the word “backup” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

baker

someone who bakes bread and cakes, especially in order to sell them in a shop

“The speaker used the word “baker” while explaining the customer-service conversation problem.”

bluff

to pretend something, especially in order to achieve what you want in a difficult or dangerous situation

“A clear example helps learners use “bluff” in a sentence about the customer-service conversation.”

close

to shut something in order to cover an opening, or to become shut in this way

“Learners hear “close” while following the customer-service conversation explanation.”

conventional

a conventional method, product, practice etc has been used for a long time and is considered the usual type

“The report describes the customer-service conversation issue as conventional.”

flatter

to praise someone in order to please them or get something from them, even though you do not mean it

“Learners hear “flatter” while following the customer-service conversation explanation.”

frozen

frozen food has been stored at a very low temperature in order to preserve it

“The report describes the customer-service conversation issue as frozen.”

govern

to officially and legally control a country and make all the decisions about taxes, laws, public services etc

“The speaker explains how “govern” is used in a report about the customer-service conversation.”

industry

the large-scale production of goods or of substances such as coal and steel

“Learners saw the word “industry” while comparing two sides of the customer-service conversation issue.”

madam

used to address a woman in a polite way, especially a customer in a shop

“The customer-service conversation report includes a section on the word “madam.””

narrate

to tell a story by describing all the events in order, for example in a book

“The speaker explains how “narrate” is used in a report about the customer-service conversation.”