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IELTS Environment and science

Writing: Environment & change

Words for describing trends, comparing options, and organising academic paragraphs. Focus: environment & change.

Independent IELTS study resource — not official exam material.

  • Teens and up
  • Environment & science
  • Confident · B2
  • 250 words
Play word detective with these words All 6 ways to practise

The words

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

idiomatic
typical of the natural way in which someone speaks or writes when they are using their own language
“During the environmental project discussion, “idiomatic” signals a particular quality.”
reflect
to show the image of sb/sth on the surface of sth such as a mirror, water or glass
“The speaker explains how “reflect” is used in a report about the environmental project.”
adobe
earth and straw that are made into bricks for building houses
“A clear definition of the word “adobe” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
soil
the top layer of the earth in which plants grow
“A clear definition of the word “soil” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
mortar
a mixture of cement or lime , and sand and water, used in building for holding bricks or stones together
“The speaker used the word “mortar” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
pier
a structure that is built over and into the water so that boats can stop next to it or people can walk along it
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “pier.””
dilution
A dilution is a liquid that has been diluted with water or another liquid, so that it becomes weaker
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “dilution.””
unearth
to find something after searching for it, especially something that has been buried in the ground or lost for a long time
“A clear example helps learners use “unearth” in a sentence about the environmental project.”
watershed
the time in the evening after which television programmes that are not considered suitable for children may be shown in Britain
“A clear definition of the word “watershed” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
willow
a type of tree that has long thin branches and grows near water, or the wood from this tree
“Learners saw the word “willow” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
faucet
the thing that you turn on and off to control the flow of water from a pipe
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “faucet.””
hippopotamus
a large grey African animal with a big head and mouth that lives near water
“The speaker used the word “hippopotamus” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
moat
a deep wide hole, usually filled with water, dug around a castle as a defence
“The speaker used the word “moat” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
deposition
the natural process of depositing a substance on rocks or soil
“Learners saw the word “deposition” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
scum
an unpleasant dirty substance that forms on the surface of water
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “scum.””
choppy
choppy water has a lot of waves and is not smooth to sail on
“During the environmental project discussion, “choppy” signals a particular quality.”
complexion
the natural colour or appearance of the skin on your face
“Learners saw the word “complexion” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
irrigate
to supply land or crops with water
“A clear example helps learners use “irrigate” in a sentence about the environmental project.”
duck
a very common water bird with short legs and a wide beak, used for its meat, eggs, and soft feathers
“A clear definition of the word “duck” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
dig
to move earth, snow etc, or to make a hole in the ground, using a spade or your hands
“In the environmental project discussion, the verb “dig” describes an action or change.”
tadpole
a small creature that has a long tail, lives in water, and grows into a frog or toad
“The speaker used the word “tadpole” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
taxonomy
the process or a system of organizing things into different groups that show their natural relationships, especially plants or animals
“A clear definition of the word “taxonomy” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
dew
the small drops of water that form on outdoor surfaces during the night
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “dew.””
frog
a small green animal that lives near water and has long legs for jumping
“Learners saw the word “frog” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
husband
to be very careful in the way you use your money, supplies etc and not waste any
“The speaker explains how “husband” is used in a report about the environmental project.”
kettle
a container with a lid, a handle, and a spout,used for boiling and pouring water
“The speaker used the word “kettle” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
moisture
Moisture is tiny drops of water in the air, on a surface, or in the ground
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “moisture.””
bath
an act of washing your whole body by sitting or lying in water
“A clear definition of the word “bath” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
carbon
a chemical substance that exists in a pure form as diamonds, graphite etc, or in an impure form as coal, petrol etc. It is a chemical element : symbol C
“The speaker used the word “carbon” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
concomitant
something that often or naturally happens with something else
“A clear definition of the word “concomitant” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
consume
To consume an amount of fuel, energy, or time means to use it up
“Learners hear “consume” while following the environmental project explanation.”
dive
to jump into deep water with your head and arms going in first
“In the environmental project discussion, the verb “dive” describes an action or change.”
dusty
If places, roads, or other things outside are dusty, they are covered with tiny bits of earth or sand, usually because it has not rained for a long time
“The speaker uses “dusty” to characterize the environmental project situation.”
fish
an animal that lives in water, and uses its fins and tail to swim
“Learners saw the word “fish” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
landslide
a sudden fall of a lot of earth or rocks down a hill, cliff etc
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “landslide.””
relict
a group of animals or plants that exists as a remnant of a formerly widely distributed group in an environment different from that in which it originated
“A clear definition of the word “relict” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
bent
special natural skill or interest in a particular area
“The speaker used the word “bent” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
climate
the typical weather conditions in a particular area
“A clear definition of the word “climate” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
lively
someone who is lively has a lot of energy and is very active
“The speaker uses “lively” to characterize the environmental project situation.”
overgraze
to graze (land) beyond its capacity to sustain stock
“The speaker explains how “overgraze” is used in a report about the environmental project.”
rain
if it rains, drops of water fall from clouds in the sky
“Learners hear “rain” while following the environmental project explanation.”
sail
to travel on or across an area of water in a boat or ship
“The speaker explains how “sail” is used in a report about the environmental project.”
strength
the physical power and energy that makes someone strong
“A clear definition of the word “strength” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
bound
a long or high jump made with a lot of energy
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “bound.””
brown
having the colour of earth, wood, or coffee
“The report describes the environmental project issue as brown.”
copper
a soft reddish-brown metal that allows electricity and heat to pass through it easily, and is used to make electrical wires, water pipes etc. It is a chemical element: symbol Cu
“The speaker used the word “copper” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
douse
to stop a fire from burning by pouring water on it
“In the environmental project discussion, the verb “douse” describes an action or change.”
globe
a round object with a map of the Earth drawn on it
“The speaker used the word “globe” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
inefficient
not using time, money, energy etc in the best way
“The report describes the environmental project issue as inefficient.”
languid
moving slowly and involving very little energy
“The report describes the environmental project issue as languid.”
magma
hot melted rock below the surface of the Earth
“A clear definition of the word “magma” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
mud
wet earth that has become soft and sticky
“Learners saw the word “mud” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
propensity
a natural tendency to behave in a particular way
“The speaker used the word “propensity” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
puddle
a small pool of liquid, especially rainwater
“Learners saw the word “puddle” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
spoilage
waste resulting from something being spoiled
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “spoilage.””
spontaneity
Spontaneity is spontaneous, natural behaviour
“Learners saw the word “spontaneity” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
turbid
turbid water or liquid is dirty and muddy
“Researchers describe the environmental project evidence as turbid.”
wildlife
animals and plants growing in natural conditions
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “wildlife.””
boat
a vehicle that travels across water
“Learners saw the word “boat” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
lake
a large area of water surrounded by land
“The speaker used the word “lake” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
frisky
full of energy and fun
“The report describes the environmental project issue as frisky.”
catchment
In geography, catchment is the process of collecting water, in particular the process of water flowing from the ground and collecting in a river. Catchment is also the water that is collected in this way.
“A clear definition of the word “catchment” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
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 environmental project issue.”
bulldozer
a powerful vehicle with a broad metal blade, used for moving earth and rocks, destroying buildings etc
“A clear definition of the word “bulldozer” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
dike
A dike is a thick wall that is built to stop water flooding onto very low-lying land from a river or from the ocean
“The speaker used the word “dike” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
natural
a musical note that has been changed from a flat to be a semitone higher, or from a sharp to be a semitone lower
“A clear definition of the word “natural” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
rice
a food that consists of small white or brown grains that you boil in water until they become soft enough to eat
“A clear definition of the word “rice” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
shellfish
an animal that lives in water, has a shell, and can be eaten as food, for example crab s , lobster s , and oyster s
“Learners saw the word “shellfish” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
underwater
Something that exists or happens underwater exists or happens below the surface of the ocean, a river, or a lake
“The report explains why the environmental project pattern developed underwater.”
water
the clear liquid without colour, smell, or taste that falls as rain and that is used for drinking, washing etc
“In this environmental project, the word “water” helps express a precise idea.”
bladder
the organ in your body that holds urine (= waste liquid ) until it is passed out of your body
“Learners saw the word “bladder” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
boisterous
someone, especially a child, who is boisterous makes a lot of noise and has a lot of energy
“During the environmental project discussion, “boisterous” signals a particular quality.”
iceberg
a very large mass of ice floating in the sea, most of which is under the surface of the water
“The speaker used the word “iceberg” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
silica
a chemical compound that exists naturally as sand, quartz , and flint , used in making glass
“The speaker used the word “silica” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
snow
soft white pieces of frozen water that fall from the sky in cold weather and cover the ground
“A clear definition of the word “snow” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
trouble
to say something or ask someone to do something which may use or waste their time or upset them
“The speaker explains how “trouble” is used in a report about the environmental project.”
capability
the natural ability, skill, or power that makes a machine, person, or organization able to do something, especially something difficult
“Learners saw the word “capability” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
diver
someone who swims or works under water using special equipment to help them breathe
“Learners saw the word “diver” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
ghostly
Something that is ghostly seems unreal or unnatural and may be frightening because of this
“Researchers describe the environmental project evidence as ghostly.”
lagoon
a lake of sea water that is partly separated from the sea by rocks, sand, or coral
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “lagoon.””
meteor
a piece of rock or metal that travels through space, and makes a bright line in the night sky when it falls down towards the Earth
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “meteor.””
peninsula
a piece of land almost completely surrounded by water but joined to a large area of land
“A clear definition of the word “peninsula” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
rampart
a wide pile of earth or a stone wall built to protect a castle or city in the past
“A clear definition of the word “rampart” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
mammoth
an animal like a large hairy elephant that lived on Earth thousands of years ago
“A clear definition of the word “mammoth” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
prodigal
someone who spends money carelessly and wastes their time – used humorously
“Learners saw the word “prodigal” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
sod
a piece of earth or the layer of earth with grass and roots growing in it
“Learners saw the word “sod” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
vortex
a mass of wind or water that spins quickly and pulls things into its centre
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “vortex.””
waterfall
a place where water from a river or stream falls down over a cliff or rock
“Learners saw the word “waterfall” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
watertight
a watertight container, roof, door etc does not allow water to get in or out
“During the environmental project discussion, “watertight” signals a particular quality.”
wharf
a structure that is built out into the water so that boats can stop next to it
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “wharf.””
amphibian
an animal such as a frog that can live both on land and in water
“The speaker used the word “amphibian” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
celsius
a scale of temperature in which water freezes at 0˚ and boils at 100˚
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “celsius.””
keel
a bar along the bottom of a boat that keeps it steady in the water
“The speaker used the word “keel” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
ski
to move on skis for sport or in order to travel on snow or water
“A clear example helps learners use “ski” in a sentence about the environmental project.”
sky
the space above the earth where clouds and the sun and stars appear
“A clear definition of the word “sky” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
sleep
the natural state of resting your mind and body, usually at night
“The speaker used the word “sleep” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
stop
to block a hole or pipe so that water, smoke etc cannot go through it
“Learners hear “stop” while following the environmental project explanation.”
urine
the yellow liquid waste that comes out of the body from the bladder
“A clear definition of the word “urine” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
waterproof
a jacket or coat that does not allow rain and water through it
“The speaker used the word “waterproof” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
wild
living in a natural state, not changed or controlled by people
“The report describes the environmental project issue as wild.”
wring
to tightly twist a wet cloth or wet clothes in order to remove water
“A clear example helps learners use “wring” in a sentence about the environmental project.”
deform
to change or spoil the usual or natural shape of sth
“The speaker explains how “deform” is used in a report about the environmental project.”
environmentalist
someone who is concerned about protecting the environment
“Learners saw the word “environmentalist” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
mound
a pile of earth or stones that looks like a small hill
“A clear definition of the word “mound” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
planetary
Planetary means relating to or belonging to planets
“The report describes the environmental project issue as planetary.”
skin
the natural outer layer of a person’s or animal’s body
“The speaker used the word “skin” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
swim
to move yourself through water using your arms and legs
“In the environmental project discussion, the verb “swim” describes an action or change.”
thrift
wise and careful use of money, so that none is wasted
“The speaker used the word “thrift” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
astronomer
a scientist who studies the stars and planet s
“Learners saw the word “astronomer” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
dung
solid waste from animals, especially cows
“Learners saw the word “dung” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
earthenware
Earthenware objects are referred to as earthenware
“Learners saw the word “earthenware” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
freezing
below the temperature at which water turns to ice
“Researchers describe the environmental project evidence as freezing.”
hearth
the area of floor around a fireplace in a house
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “hearth.””
supernatural
The supernatural is things that are supernatural
“Learners saw the word “supernatural” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
unnatural
different from what you would normally expect
“Researchers describe the environmental project evidence as unnatural.”
Venus
the planetthat is second in order from the Sun
“The speaker used the word “venus” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
wash
to clean something using water and a type of soap
“A clear example helps learners use “wash” in a sentence about the environmental project.”
earthen
an earthen floor or wall is made of soil
“During the environmental project discussion, “earthen” signals a particular quality.”
ecologist
a scientist who studies ecology
“The speaker used the word “ecologist” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
heater
a machine for making air or water hotter
“The speaker used the word “heater” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
hydroelectric
using water power to produce electricity
“The speaker uses “hydroelectric” to characterize the environmental project situation.”
physical
relating to or following natural laws
“The speaker uses “physical” to characterize the environmental project situation.”
sunlight
natural light that comes from the sun
“Learners saw the word “sunlight” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
waterway
a river or canal that boats travel on
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “waterway.””
watery
full of water or relating to water
“The report describes the environmental project issue as watery.”
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 environmental project.”
romanticism
a way of writing or painting that was popular in the late 18th and early 19th century, in which feelings, imagination, and wild natural beauty were considered more important than anything else
“Learners saw the word “romanticism” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
deliberate
to think about something very carefully
“The speaker explains how “deliberate” is used in a report about the environmental project.”
fascinate
to attract or interest sb very much
“Learners hear “fascinate” while following the environmental project explanation.”
intimate
having an extremely close friendship
“During the environmental project discussion, “intimate” signals a particular quality.”
inventory
a list of all the things in a place
“Learners saw the word “inventory” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
legitimate
to make something official or legal
“The speaker explains how “legitimate” is used in a report about the environmental project.”
lethal
causing death, or able to cause death
“Researchers describe the environmental project evidence as lethal.”
massive
very large in size, quantity, or extent
“The report describes the environmental project issue as massive.”
meadow
a field with wild grass and flowers
“The speaker used the word “meadow” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
monotonous
boring because of always being the same
“The speaker uses “monotonous” to characterize the environmental project situation.”
mundane
ordinary and not interesting or exciting
“The report describes the environmental project issue as mundane.”
notorious
famous or well-known for something bad
“Researchers describe the environmental project evidence as notorious.”
obligation
a moral or legal duty to do something
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “obligation.””
robust
a robust person is strong and healthy
“During the environmental project discussion, “robust” signals a particular quality.”
trunk
the thick central woody stem of a tree
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “trunk.””
abundance
a large quantity of something
“The speaker used the word “abundance” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
biome
a type of environment that is described according to the typical weather conditions and plants that exist there
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “biome.””
cheque
a printed piece of paper that you write an amount of money on, sign, and use instead of money to pay for things
“A clear definition of the word “cheque” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
collate
to gather information together, examine it carefully, and compare it with other information to find any differences
“In the environmental project discussion, the verb “collate” describes an action or change.”
crustacean
an animal such as a lobster or a crab that has a hard outer shell and several pairs of legs, and usually lives in water
“The speaker used the word “crustacean” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
desiccant
a substance, such as calcium oxide, that absorbs water and is used to remove moisture; a drying agent
“Learners saw the word “desiccant” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
dome
a round roof on a building
“The speaker used the word “dome” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
genetic
relating to genes or genetics
“During the environmental project discussion, “genetic” signals a particular quality.”
malt
grain, usually barley , that has been kept in water for a time and then dried. It is used for making beer, whisky etc.
“Learners saw the word “malt” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
oilskin
special cloth that has had oil put on it so that it has a smooth surface and water cannot go through it
“The speaker used the word “oilskin” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
plant
a living thing that has leaves and roots and grows in earth, especially one that is smaller than a tree
“A clear definition of the word “plant” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
protrude
to stick out from somewhere
“The speaker explains how “protrude” is used in a report about the environmental project.”
proximity
nearness in distance or time
“The speaker used the word “proximity” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
record
to write information down or store it in a computer or on film so that it can be looked at in the future
“A clear example helps learners use “record” in a sentence about the environmental project.”
rinse
to wash clothes, dishes, vegetables etc quickly with water, especially running water, and without soap
“The speaker explains how “rinse” is used in a report about the environmental project.”
underwrite
to support an activity, business plan etc with money, and to take financial responsibility if it fails
“The speaker explains how “underwrite” is used in a report about the environmental project.”
vivacious
someone, especially a woman, who is vivacious has a lot of energy and a happy attractive manner – used to show approval
“The speaker uses “vivacious” to characterize the environmental project situation.”
wildflower
Wildflowers are flowers that grow naturally in the countryside, rather than being grown by people in gardens
“A clear definition of the word “wildflower” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
albedo
the ratio of the intensity of light reflected from an object, such as a planet, to that of the light it receives from the sun
“A clear definition of the word “albedo” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
asteroid
one of the many small planet s that move around the Sun, especially between Mars and Jupiter
“A clear definition of the word “asteroid” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
bowel
the system of tubes inside your body where food is made into solid waste material and through which it passes out of your body
“The speaker used the word “bowel” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
fatigue
very great tiredness
“The speaker used the word “fatigue” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
gouache
a method of painting using colours that are mixed with water and made thicker with a type of glue
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “gouache.””
harrow
a farming machine with sharp metal blades, used to break up the earth before planting crops
“A clear definition of the word “harrow” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
mansion
a very large house
“The speaker used the word “mansion” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
moraine
a mass of earth or pieces of rock moved along by a glacier and left in a line at the bottom of it
“A clear definition of the word “moraine” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
outwash
a mass of gravel, sand, etc, carried and deposited by the water derived from melting glaciers
“A clear definition of the word “outwash” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
plutonic
(of igneous rocks) derived from magma that has cooled and solidified below the surface of the earth
“Researchers describe the environmental project evidence as plutonic.”
remediation
the action of remedying something, esp the reversal or stopping of damage to the environment
“The speaker used the word “remediation” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
vessel
a ship or large boat
“Learners saw the word “vessel” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
wallow
if an animal or person wallows, it rolls around in mud, water etc for pleasure or to keep cool
“Learners hear “wallow” while following the environmental project explanation.”
accumulator
a rechargeable device for storing electrical energy in the form of chemical energy, consisting of one or more separate secondary cells
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “accumulator.””
chlorine
a greenish-yellow gas with a strong smell that is used to keep the water in swimming pools clean. It is a chemical element: symbol Cl
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “chlorine.””
crossword
a word game in which you write the answers to questions in a pattern of numbered boxes
“Learners saw the word “crossword” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
hydrate
to supply someone or something with water to keep them healthy and in good condition
“The speaker explains how “hydrate” is used in a report about the environmental project.”
landslip
a small fall of earth or rocks down a hill, cliff etc, that is smaller than a landslide
“A clear definition of the word “landslip” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
meteorite
A meteorite is a large piece of rock or metal from space that has landed on Earth
“Learners saw the word “meteorite” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
stagy
behaviour that is stagy is not natural and is like the way an actor behaves on a stage
“The report describes the environmental project issue as stagy.”
stratosphere
the outer part of the air surrounding the Earth, from 10 to 50 kilometres above the Earth
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “stratosphere.””
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 environmental project topic.”
ballast
heavy material that is carried by a ship to make it more steady in the water
“A clear definition of the word “ballast” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
bonito
any of various small tunny-like marine food fishes of the genus Sarda, of warm Atlantic and Pacific waters: family Scombridae (tunnies and mackerels)
“A clear definition of the word “bonito” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
carbonate
a salt (= chemical substance formed by an acid ) that contains carbon and oxygen
“A clear definition of the word “carbonate” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
cataclysm
a violent or sudden event or change, such as a serious flood or earthquake
“The speaker used the word “cataclysm” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
cenote
(esp in the Yucatán peninsula) a natural well formed by the collapse of an overlying limestone crust: often used as a sacrificial site by the Mayas
“Learners saw the word “cenote” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
charisma
a natural ability to attract and interest other people and make them admire you
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “charisma.””
clairvoyance
the alleged power of perceiving things beyond the natural range of the senses
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “clairvoyance.””
coaming
a raised frame around the cockpit or hatchway of a vessel for keeping out water
“Learners saw the word “coaming” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
ecstasy
an illegal drug that gives a feeling of happiness and energy. Ecstasy is especially used by people who go out to dance at clubs and parties.
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “ecstasy.””
emulsion
a mixture of liquids that do not completely combine, such as oil and water
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “emulsion.””
excrete
to get rid of waste material from your body through your bowels, your skin etc
“In the environmental project discussion, the verb “excrete” describes an action or change.”
inlet
a narrow area of water that reaches from the sea or a lake into the land
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “inlet.””
metabolize
to change food in your body into energy and new cells, using chemical processes
“In the environmental project discussion, the verb “metabolize” describes an action or change.”
metamorphic
metamorphic rock is formed by the continuous effects of pressure, heat, or water
“The speaker uses “metamorphic” to characterize the environmental project situation.”
regolith
the layer of loose material covering the bedrock of the earth and moon, etc, comprising soil, sand, rock fragments, volcanic ash, glacial drift, etc
“Learners saw the word “regolith” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
scrawl
to write in a careless and untidy way, so that your words are not easy to read
“In the environmental project discussion, the verb “scrawl” describes an action or change.”
seaway
a waterway giving access to an inland port, navigable by ocean-going ships
“Learners saw the word “seaway” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
shoreline
the land along the edge of a large area of water such as an ocean or lake
“The speaker used the word “shoreline” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
wasteful
using more of something than you should, especially money, time, or effort
“During the environmental project discussion, “wasteful” signals a particular quality.”
wetland
an area of land that is partly covered with water, or is wet most of the time
“A clear definition of the word “wetland” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
acid
a chemical substance that has a pH of less than 7. Strong acids can burn holes in material or damage your skin
“The speaker used the word “acid” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
affectation
a way of behaving, speaking etc that is not sincere or natural
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “affectation.””
anchor
a piece of heavy metal that is lowered to the bottom of the sea, a lake etc to prevent a ship or boat moving
“A clear definition of the word “anchor” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
atheist
An atheist is a person who believes that there is no God. Compare .
“Learners saw the word “atheist” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
coincidence
A coincidence is when two or more similar or related events occur at the same time by chance and without any planning
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “coincidence.””
costume
a set of clothes worn by an actor or by someone to make them look like something such as an animal, famous person etc
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “costume.””
cushion
a cloth bag filled with soft material that you put on a chair or the floor to make it more comfortable
“The speaker used the word “cushion” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
diagram
a simple drawing or plan that shows exactly where something is, what something looks like, or how something works
“The speaker used the word “diagram” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
digress
to talk or write about something that is not your main subject
“The speaker explains how “digress” is used in a report about the environmental project.”
drainpipe
a pipe that carries rainwater away from the roof of a building
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “drainpipe.””
energy
the physical and mental strength that makes you able to do things
“Learners saw the word “energy” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
ethology
the study of the behaviour of animals in their normal environment
“A clear definition of the word “ethology” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
explode
to burst, or to make something burst, into small pieces, usually with a loud noise and in a way that causes damage
“The speaker explains how “explode” is used in a report about the environmental project.”
factitious
made to happen artificially by people rather than happening naturally
“During the environmental project discussion, “factitious” signals a particular quality.”
guarantee
to promise that you will pay back money that someone else has borrowed, if they do not pay it back themselves
“In the environmental project discussion, the verb “guarantee” describes an action or change.”
gutter
the low part at the edge of a road where water collects and flows away
“A clear definition of the word “gutter” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
hover
to stay nervously in the same place, especially because you are waiting for something or are not certain what to do
“In the environmental project discussion, the verb “hover” describes an action or change.”
invest
to buy shares, property, or goods because you hope that the value will increase and you can make a profit
“The speaker explains how “invest” is used in a report about the environmental project.”
mammal
a type of animal that drinks milk from its mother’s body when it is young. Humans, dogs, and whales are mammals.
“The speaker used the word “mammal” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
mission
an important job that involves travelling somewhere, done by a member of the air force, army etc, or by a spacecraft
“Learners saw the word “mission” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
paperback
A paperback is a book with a thin cardboard or paper cover. Compare .
“The speaker used the word “paperback” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
petrochemical
any chemical substance obtained from petroleum or natural gas
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “petrochemical.””
project
a carefully planned piece of work to get information about something, to build something, to improve something etc
“A clear definition of the word “project” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
retrospect
thinking back to a time in the past, especially with the advantage of knowing more now than you did then
“A clear definition of the word “retrospect” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
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 environmental project.”
schist
a type of rock that naturally breaks apart into thin flat pieces
“Learners saw the word “schist” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
slide
a large structure with steps leading to the top of a long sloping surface which children can slide down
“The speaker used the word “slide” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
spiral
a line in the form of a curve that winds around a central point, moving further away from the centre all the time
“A clear definition of the word “spiral” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
statue
an image of a person or animal that is made in solid material such as stone or metal and is usually large
“Learners saw the word “statue” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
steady
to hold someone or something so they become more balanced or controlled, or to become more balanced or controlled
“Learners hear “steady” while following the environmental project explanation.”
transform
to completely change the appearance, form, or character of something or someone, especially in a way that improves it
“In the environmental project discussion, the verb “transform” describes an action or change.”
vacuum
a space that is completely empty of all gas, especially one from which all the air has been taken away
“The speaker used the word “vacuum” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
adapt
to gradually change your behaviour and attitudes in order to be successful in a new situation
“Learners hear “adapt” while following the environmental project explanation.”
admission
a statement in which you admit that something is true or that you have done something wrong
“A clear definition of the word “admission” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
alternate
An alternate is a person or thing that replaces another, and can act or be used instead of them
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “alternate.””
assertion
something that you say or write that you strongly believe
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “assertion.””
bicker
to argue, especially about something very unimportant
“In the environmental project discussion, the verb “bicker” describes an action or change.”
bromine
a pungent dark red volatile liquid element of the halogen series that occurs in natural brine and is used in the production of chemicals, esp ethylene dibromide
“The environmental project report includes a section on the word “bromine.””
calcareous
of, containing, or resembling calcium carbonate; chalky
“Researchers describe the environmental project evidence as calcareous.”
carbonic
(of a compound) containing carbon, esp tetravalent carbon
“The speaker uses “carbonic” to characterize the environmental project situation.”
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 environmental project explanation.”
comparatively
as compared to something else or to a previous state
“The speaker explained the environmental project change comparatively.”
confidence
the feeling that you can trust someone or something to be good, work well, or produce good results
“Learners saw the word “confidence” while comparing two sides of the environmental project issue.”
debris
the pieces of something that are left after it has been destroyed in an accident, explosion etc
“The speaker used the word “debris” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
diameter
a straight line from one side of a circle to the other side, passing through the centre of the circle, or the length of this line
“A clear definition of the word “diameter” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
dilemma
a situation in which it is very difficult to decide what to do, because all the choices seem equally good or equally bad
“The speaker used the word “dilemma” while explaining the environmental project problem.”
disfigure
to spoil the appearance that something naturally has
“Learners hear “disfigure” while following the environmental project explanation.”
earthwork
a large long pile of earth, used in the past to stop attacks
“A clear definition of the word “earthwork” helped the group discuss the environmental project topic.”
estimate
to try to judge the value, size, speed, cost etc of something, without calculating it exactly
“In the environmental project discussion, the verb “estimate” describes an action or change.”