A Dictionary of

Synonyms and
Antonyms

Compiled by

ALAN SPOONER

OXTORD
UNIVERSITY PRESS
 OXFORD
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© main text Alan Spooner 1992,1997,1999
© Lexicon of Hard Words Janet Whitcut 1998,1999
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Main text first published as the Oxford Quick Reference Thesaurus 1997
This dictionary 1999
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Using the dictionary

In this dictionary you will find

Headwords
The words you want to look up are printed in bold and arranged in
a single alphabetical sequence. In addition, there maybe sub-heads
in bold at the end of main entries for derived forms and phrases.
Synonyms
Synonyms are listed alphabetically, except that distinct senses of a
headword are numbered and treated separately.
Under some headwords, in addition to the lists of synonyms
given there, a cross-reference printed in s ma l l c a pit a l s takes you
to another entry to provide an extended range of synonyms. These
cross-references are marked by the arrowhead symbol >.
Related words
Lists of words which are not synonyms but which have a common
relationship to the headword (eg, kinds of vehicle listed under
vehicle) are printed in italic, flagged by the symbol □.
Antonyms
Cross-reference printed in s ma l l c a pit a l s introduce you to lists of
opposites. These cross-references are preceded by the abbreviation
Opp.
Part-of-speech labels
Part-of-speech labels are given throughout. (See list of abbrevi-
ations.) Under each headword, uses as adjective, adverb, noun, and
verb are separated by the symbol •.
Illustrative phrases
Meanings of less obvious senses are indicated by illustrative
phrases printed in italic.

Usage warnings
Usage markers in italic precede words which are normally
informal, derogatory, etc. (See list of abbreviations.)
Abbreviations used in this
dictionary

Parts of speech
adj adjective
adv adverb
int interjection
n noun
prep preposition
vb verb
Other abbreviations
derog normally used in a derogatory, negative, or
uncomplimentary sense
fem feminine
inf normally used informally
joc normally jocular or joking
old use old-fashioned or obsolete
opp opposites (antonyms)
plur plural
poet poetic
si slang
Amer word or phrase usually regarded as
American usage
Fr word or phrase common in English
contexts, but still identifiably French
Ger ditto German
Gr ditto Greek
It ditto Italian
Lat ditto Latin
Scot word or phrase usually regarded as Scottish
usage
> This symbol shows that you will find
relevant information if you go to the
word indicated.
 A
abandon v 1 evacuate, leave, quit, efficient, experienced, expert, inf
vacate, withdraw from. 2 break with, handy, intelligent, masterly, prac-
desert, inf dump, forsake, jilt, leave tised, proficient, skilful, skilled, tal-
behind, inf leave in the lurch, ented. Opp in c o mpe t e n t . 2 allowed, at
maroon, renounce, strand, inf throw liberty, authorized, available, eligi-
over, inf wash your hands of. 3 aban- ble, fit, free, permitted, willing. Opp
don a claim, abdicate, cancel, cede, si UNABLE.
chuck in, discontinue, disown, inf
abnormal adj aberrant, anomalous,
ditch, drop, forfeit, forgo, give up,
atypical, inf bent, bizarre, curious,
relinquish, resign, surrender, waive,
yield. deformed, deviant, distorted, ec-
centric, exceptional, extraordin-
abbey n cathedral, church, convent, ary, freak, funny, idiosyncratic, ir-
friary, monastery, nunnery, priory. regular, inf kinky, malformed, odd,
abbreviate v abridge, compress, peculiar, perverted, queer, singular,
condense, cut, digest, edit, precis, strange, uncharacteristic, un-
reduce, shorten, summarize, trun- natural, unorthodox, unrepres-
cate. Opp LENGTHEN. entative, untypical, unusual, way-
abdicate v renounce the throne, inf ward, weird. Opp n o r ma l .
step down. t> a b a n d o n , r e s ig n . abolish v abrogate, annul, delete,
abduct v carry off, kidnap, inf make destroy, dispense with, do away with,
away with, seize. eliminate, end, eradicate, finish, inf
abhor v detest, execrate, loathe, get rid of, liquidate, nullify, overturn,
shudder at. t> h a t e . put an end to, quash, remove, sup-
abhorrent adj abominable, press, terminate, withdraw. Opp c r e -
a t e.
detestable, execrable, loathsome,
nauseating, obnoxious, repellent, abominable adj abhorrent, ap-
revolting. t> h a t e f u l . Opp a t t r a c t iv e . palling, atrocious, awful, base,
abide v 1 accept, bear, endure, put beastly, brutal, cruel, despicable,
up with, stand, inf stomach, suffer, detestable, disgusting, dreadful, ex-
tolerate. 2 > s t a t , abide by t> o b e y . ecrable, foul, hateful, heinous, hor-
rible, inhuman, inhumane, loath-
ability n aptitude, bent, brains, cap-
some, nasty, obnoxious, odious,
ability, capacity, cleverness, com-
repellent, repugnant, repulsive, re-
petence, expertise, flair, genius, gift,
volting, terrible, vile. t> u n pl e a s a n t .
intelligence, knack, inf know-
Opp PLEASANT.
how, knowledge, means, power,
proficiency, prowess, resources, abort v 1 be bom prematurely, die,
scope, skill, strength, talent, train- miscarry. 2 abort take-ojf. call off, end,
ing, wit. halt, nullify, stop, terminate.
ablaze adj afire, aflame, aglow, abortion n 1 miscarriage, premature
alight, blazing, burning, flaming, lit birth, termination of pregnancy. 2 t>
up, on fire, raging. MONSTER.
able adj 1 accomplished, adept, cap- abortive adj fruitless, futile, in-
able, clever, competent, effective, effective, pointless, stillborn, un-
 2
abound
fruitful, unsuccessful, vain. Opp engross, enthral, fascinate, occupy,
SUCCESSFUL. preoccupy. > in t e r e s t , absorbed >
abound v be plentiful, flourish, pre- INTERESTED.
vail, swarm, teem, thrive. absorbent adj absorptive, per-
abrasive adj biting, caustic, galling, meable, pervious, porous, spongy.
grating, harsh, hurtful, irritating, Opp impe r v io u s .
rough, sharp. > u n k in d . Opp k in d . absorbing adj engrossing, fascinat-
abridge v abbreviate, compress, ing, gripping, spellbinding. > in t e r -
condense, cut, edit, precis, reduce, e s t in g .
shorten, summarize, truncate. Opp abstain v abstain from avoid, cease,
EXPAND. deny yourself, desist from, eschew,
abridged adj abbreviated, bowdler- forgo, give up, go without, refrain
ized, censored, compact, concise, cut, from, refuse, resist, shun, withhold
edited, inf potted, shortened. from.
abrupt adj 1 hasty, headlong, hur- abstemious adj ascetic, frugal,
ried, precipitate, quick, rapid, sud- moderate, restrained, self-denying,
den, unexpected, unforeseen. 2 an sparing, temperate. Opp s e l f -in d u l -
abrupt drop, precipitous, sharp, sheer, g en t .
steep. 3 an abrupt manner, blunt, abstract adj 1 academic, hypothet-
brisk, brusque, curt, discourteous, ical, indefinite, intangible, intel-
rude, snappy, terse, uncivil, ungra- lectual, metaphysical, notional,
cious. Opp GENTLE, GRADUAL. philosophical, theoretical, unreal.
absent adj 1 away, si bunking off, Opp c o n c r e t e . 2 abstract art. non-
gone, missing, off, out, playing pictorial, non-representational, sym-
truant, inf skiving. Opp pr e s e n t . bolic. • n outline, precis, resume,
2 > ABSENT-MINDED. summary, synopsis.
absent-minded adj absent, ab- abstruse adj complex, cryptic, deep,
sorbed, abstracted, careless, dis- devious, difficult, enigmatic, esoteric,
tracted, dreamy, forgetful, inat- hard, incomprehensible, mysterious,
tentive, oblivious, preoccupied, obscure, perplexing, problematical,
scatterbrained, unaware, unthink- profound, unfathomable. Opp o b v i -
ing, vague, withdrawn, wool-gather- o u s.
ing. Opp ALERT. absurd adj crazy, daft, eccentric, far-
absolute adj 1 categorical, certain, cical, foolish, grotesque, illogical,
complete, conclusive, decided, def- incongruous, irrational, laughable,
inite, downright, genuine, implicit, ludicrous, nonsensical, outlandish,
inalienable, indubitable, inf out-and- paradoxical, preposterous, ridicu-
out, perfect, positive, pure, sheer, lous, senseless, silly, stupid, surreal,
sure, thorough, total, unadulterated, unreasonable, zany. t> f u n n y , m a d .
unambiguous, unconditional, un- Opp r a t io n a l .
equivocal, unmitigated, unqualified, abundant adj ample, bountiful, copi-
unreserved, unrestricted, utter. ous, excessive, flourishing, generous,
2 absolute ruler, autocratic, despotic, lavish, liberal, luxuriant, overflow-
dictatorial, omnipotent, totalitarian, ing, plentiful, profuse, rampant,
tyrannical. 3 absolute opposites, inf rank, rich, well-supplied. Opp s c a r c e .
dead, diametrical, exact. abuse n 1 assault, ill-treatment, mal-
absorb v 1 assimilate, consume, treatment, misappropriation, mis-
digest, drink in, hold, imbibe, incor- use, perversion. 2 verbal abuse, curse,
porate, ingest, mop up, soak up, suck execration, imprecation, insult,
up, take in. Opp e mit . 2 absorb a blow. invective, obscenity, slander, vilifica-
cushion, deaden, lessen, soften. tion, vituperation. • v 1 damage,
3 absorb a person, captivate, engage, exploit, harm, hurt, ill-treat, injure,
3 accompany
maltreat, misuse, molest, rape, spoil, moderate, passable, satisfactory,
treat roughly. 2 abuse verbally, affront, suitable, tolerable. Opp u n a c c e pt a b l e .
berate, be rude to, inf call names, acceptance n acquiescence, agree-
castigate, curse, defame, denigrate, ment, approval, consent. Opp r e f u s a l .
insult, inveigh against, libel, malign,
accepted adj acknowledged, agreed,
revile, slander, inf smear, sneer at,
axiomatic, common, indisputable,
swear at, vilify, vituperate, wrong.
recognized, standard, undisputed,
abusive adj acrimonious, angiy, cen- unquestioned. Opp c o n t r o v e r s ia l .
sorious, critical, cruel, defamatory,
accessible adj approachable, at
denigrating, derogatory, disparaging,
hand, attainable, available, close,
hurtful, impolite, injurious, insult- convenient, inf handy, within reach.
ing, libellous, offensive, opprobrious, Opp INACCESSIBLE.
pejorative, rude, scathing, scornful,
scurrilous, slanderous, vituperative. accessory n 1 addition, appendage,
Opp POLITE. attachment, component, extra. 2 >
ACCOMPLICE.
abysmal adj 1 bottomless, bound-
less, deep, immeasurable, incalcul- accident n 1 blunder, chance, coin-
able, infinite, profound, vast. 21> b a d . cidence, fate, fluke, fortune, luck,
misadventure, mischance, mishap,
abyss n inf bottomless pit, chasm, mistake, inf pot luck, serendipity.
crater, fissure, gap, gulf, hole, pit, 2 catastrophe, collision, crash, dis-
rift, void. aster, inf pile-up, wreck.
academic adj 1 educational, peda- accidental adj arbitrary, casual,
gogical, scholastic. 2 bookish, brainy, chance, coincidental, inf fluky, for-
clever, erudite, highbrow, intelligent, tuitous, fortunate, haphazard, inad-
learned, scholarly, studious. 3 aca- vertent, lucky, random, unexpected,
demic study, abstract, conjectural, unforeseen, unintended, uninten-
hypothetical, impractical, intellec- tional, unlucky, unplanned, un-
tual, speculative, theoretical. • n inf premeditated. Opp INTENTIONAL.
egghead, highbrow, intellectual, acclaim v applaud, celebrate, cheer,
scholar, thinker. clap, commend, extol, hail, honour,
accelerate v 1 inf get a move on, go praise, salute, welcome.
faster, hasten, pick up speed, accommodate v 1 assist, equip, fit,
quicken, speed up. 2 bring on, ex- furnish, help, provide, serve, supply.
pedite, spur on, step up, stimulate. 2 accommodate guests, billet, board,
accent n 1 brogue, cadence, dialect, cater for, harbour, house, lodge, pro-
enunciation, intonation, pronunci- vide for, inf put up, quarter, shelter,
ation, speech pattern, tone. 2 ac- take in. 3 accommodate yourself to new
centuation, beat, emphasis, pulse, surroundings, accustom, adapt, re-
rhythm, stress. concile. accommodating t> c o n -
accept v 1 get, inf jump at, receive, s id e r a t e .
take, welcome. 2 acknowledge, accommodation n board, home,
admit, bear, put up with, reconcile housing, lodgings, pied-a-terre,
yourself to, resign yourself to, sub- premises, shelter. □ apartment, inf
mit to, suffer, tolerate, undertake. bedsit, boarding house, inf digs, flat,
3 accept an argument, abide by, accede guest house, hall of residence, hostel,
to, acquiesce in, agree to; believe in, hotel, inn, motel, pension, rooms,
be reconciled to, consent to, defer self-catering, timeshare, youth hostel.
to, grant, recognize, inf stomach, inf t> HOUSE.
swallow, take in. Opp r e je c t . accompany v 1 attend, chaperon,
acceptable adj 1 agreeable, grat- conduct, escort, follow, go with,
ifying, pleasant, pleasing, worth- guard, guide, look after, partner, inf
while. 2 adequate, admissible, tag along with. 2 be associated with,
accompanying 4

be linked with, belong with, com- accuse v attack, blame, bring

plement, occur with, supplement. charges against, censure, charge,
condemn, denounce, impeach,
accompanying adj associated,
impugn, indict, in/point the finger
attached, attendant, complementary,
at,’ prosecute, summons, tax. Opp
related.
DEFEND.
accomplice n abettor, accessory,
accustomed adj common, custom-
associate, collaborator, colleague,
ary, established, expected, familiar,
confederate, conspirator, helper,
habitual, normal, ordinary, prevail-
partner.
ing, routine, traditional, usual, get
accomplish v achieve, attain, inf accustomed > a d a pt .
bring off, carry out, carry through,
ache n anguish, discomfort, hurt,
complete, consummate, discharge,
pain, pang, smart, soreness, throb-
do successfully, effect, finish, fulfil,
bing, twinge. • v 1 be painful, be
realize, succeed in.
sore, hurt, smart, sting, throb. 2 >
accomplished adj adept, expert, DESIRE.
gifted, polished, proficient, skilful,
achieve v 1 accomplish, attain,
talented.
bring off, cany out, complete, con-
accomplishment n ability, attain- clude, do successfully, effect, engin-
ment, expertise, gift, skill, talent. eer, execute, finish, fulfil, manage,
accord n agreement, concord, har- succeed in. 2 achieve fame, acquire,
mony, rapport, understanding. earn, gain, get, obtain, reach, win.
account n 1 bill, calculation, check, acid adj sharp, sour, stinging, tangy,
computation, invoice, receipt, reck- tart, vinegary. Opp s w e e t .
oning, inf score, statement. 2 com- acknowledge v 1 accede, accept,
mentary, description, diary, ex- acquiesce, admit, allow, concede,
planation, history, log, memoir, nar- confess, confirm, endorse, grant,
rative, record, report, statement, own up to, profess. Opp d e n y .
story, tale, inf write-up. 3 of no 2 acknowledge a greeting, answer, react
account, advantage, benefit, concern, to, reply to, respond to, return.
consequence, importance, interest, 3 acknowledge a friend, greet, hail, re-
significance, use, value, worth, cognize, inf say hello to. Opp ig n o r e .
account for > e x pl a in .
acme n apex, crown, height, highest
accumulate v accrue, aggregate, point, peak, pinnacle, summit, top,
amass, assemble, bring together, zenith. Opp n a d ir .
build up, collect, come together,
gather, grow, heap up, hoard, acquaint v announce, apprise, brief,
increase, multiply, pile up, stockpile, enlighten, .inform, make aware,
store up. Opp d is pe r s e . make familiar, notify, reveal, tell.
accumulation n inf build-up, col- acquaintance n 1 awareness,
lection, conglomeration, gathering, familiarity, knowledge, understand-
heap, hoard, mass, stockpile, store. ing. 2 > FRIEND.
accurate adj authentic, careful, cor- acquire v buy, come by, earn, get,
rect, exact, factual, faultless, me- obtain, procure, purchase.
ticulous, minute, nice, perfect, acquisition n accession, addition,
precise, reliable, scrupulous, sound, in/buy, gain, possession, purchase.
in/spot-on, true, truthful, unerring,
acquit v absolve, clear, declare inno-
veracious. Opp in a c c u r a t e .
cent, discharge, excuse, exonerate,
accusation n allegation, charge, find innocent, free, in/let off, release,
citation, complaint, impeachment, reprieve, set free, vindicate. Opp c o n -
indictment, summons. d e m n . acquit yourself > b e h a v e .
5 addition
acrid adj bitter, caustic, pungent, activity n 1 action, animation,
sharp, unpleasant. bustle, commotion, energy, hurly-
acrimonious adj abusive, acerbic, burly, hustle, industry, life, move-
angry, bad-tempered, bitter, caustic, ment, stir. 2 hobby, interest, job,
hostile, hot-tempered, ill-natured, ill- occupation, pastime, pursuit, task,
tempered, irascible, quarrelsome, venture. c> w o r k .
rancorous, sarcastic, sharp, spiteful, actor, actress ns artist, artiste,
tart, testy, venomous, virulent, lead, leading lady, performer, player,
waspish. Opp pe a c e a b l e . star, supporting actor. > e n t e r t a in e r .
act n 1 deed, exploit, feat, operation, actors cast, company, troupe.
undertaking. t> a c t io n . 2 act of parlia- actual adj authentic, bona fide, con-
ment. bill [= draft act], decree, edict, firmed, corporeal, definite, existing,
law, regulation, statute. 3 a stage act. factual, genuine, indisputable, in
performance, routine, sketch, turn. existence, legitimate, living, mater-
• v 1 behave, carry on, conduct ial, real, tangible, true, verifiable. Opp
yourself, deport yourself. 2 func- IMAGINARY.
tion, operate, serve, take effect, acute adj 1 narrow, pointed, sharp.
work. 3 Act now! do something, get 2 acute pain, excruciating, exquisite,
involved, take steps. > b e g in . 4 act a extreme, intense, keen, piercing,
role, appear (as), derog camp it up, racking, severe, sharp, shooting,
characterize, dramatize, enact, derog violent. 3 an acute mind, alert, analyt-
ham it up, impersonate, mime, ical, astute, inf cute, discerning, in-
mimic, derog overact, perform, per- cisive, intelligent, keen, penetrating,
sonify, play, portray, pose as, repres- perceptive, sharp, subtle. t> c l e v e r .
ent. t> PRETEND. 4 an acute problem, crucial, immedi-
acting adj deputy, interim, stand- ate, important, overwhelming, pre-
by, stopgap, substitute, temporary, ssing, serious, urgent. 5 an acute
vice-. illness, critical, sudden. Opp c h r o n ic ,
action n 1 act, deed, enterprise, s t u pid .
exploit, feat, measure, performance, adapt v 1 acclimatize, accustom,
proceeding, step, undertaking, work. adjust, attune, become conditioned,
2 activity, drama, energy, enterprise, become hardened, fit, get accus-
excitement, exertion, liveliness, tomed (to), get used (to), habituate,
movement, vigour, vitality. 3 action of reconcile, suit, tailor, turn. 2 adapt to
a play, events, happenings, story. a new use. alter, amend, change, con-
4 action of a watch, mechanism, op- vert, modify, process, rearrange,
eration, working, works. 5 military rebuild, reconstruct, refashion,
action. t> b a t t l e . remake, reorganize, transform. >
activate v actuate, energize, excite, EDIT.
fire, galvanize, initiate, mobilize, add v annex, append, attach, com-
rouse, set in motion, set off, start, bine, integrate, join, inf tack on,
stimulate, trigger. unite. Opp d e d u c t , add to > in c r e a s e .
active adj 1 animated, brisk, add up (to) t> TOTAL.
bustling, busy, dynamic, energetic, addict n 1 alcoholic, si junkie, inf
enthusiastic, functioning, hyper- user. 2 t> e n t h u s ia s t .
active, live, lively, militant, nimble,
addiction n compulsion, craving,
inf on the go, restless, sprightly,
dependence, fixation, habit, obses-
strenuous, vigorous, vivacious,
working. 2 active support, commit- sion.
ted, dedicated, devoted, diligent, addition n 1 adding up, calculation,
hard-working, industrious, involved, computation, reckoning, totalling,
occupied, sedulous, staunch, zealous. inf totting up. 2 accession, accessory,
Opp INACTIVE. accretion, addendum, additive,
additional 6

adjunct, admixture, annexe, administer v 1 administrate, con-

appendage, appendix, appurtenance, duct affairs, control, direct, govern,
attachment, continuation, develop- lead, manage, organize, oversee,
ment, expansion, extension, extra, preside over, regulate, rule, run,
increase, increment, postscript, sup- supervise. 2 administer justice, carry
plement. out, execute, implement, prosecute.
3' administer medicine, dispense, dis-
additional adj added, extra, further,
tribute, give, hand out, measure out,
increased, more, new, other, spare,
mete out, provide, supply.
supplementary.
administrator n bureaucrat, civil
address n 1 directions, location,
whereabouts. 2 deliver an address, dis- servant, controller, director, ex-
course, harangue, homily, lecture, ecutive, manager, derog mandarin,
sermon, speech, talk. • v 1 accost, organizer. > c h ie f .
approach, in/buttonhole, greet, hail, admirable adj awe-inspiring, com-
salute, speak to, talk to. 2 address an mendable, creditable, deserving,
audience, give a speech to, harangue, estimable, excellent, exemplaiy,
lecture, address yourself to > great, honourable, laudable, marvel-
TACKLE. lous, meritorious, pleasing, praise-
adept adj clever, competent, gifted, worthy, wonderful, worthy. Opp
practised, proficient. > s k il f u l . Opp CONTEMPTIBLE.
UNSKILFUL. admiration n appreciation, awe,
adequate adj acceptable, all right, commendation, esteem, hero-wor-
average, competent, fair, fitting, mid- ship, high regard, honour, praise,
dling, inf OK, passable, presentable, respect. Opp c o n t e m pt .
satisfactory, in/so-so, sufficient, tol- admire v applaud, appreciate,
erable. Opp INADEQUATE. approve of, be delighted by, com-
adhere v bind, bond, cement, cling, mend, esteem, have a high opinion
glue, gum, paste. > s t ic k . of, hero-worship, honour, idolize,
laud, look up to, marvel at, praise,
adherent n aficionado, devotee, fan, respect, revere, think highly of,
follower, in/hanger-on, supporter. value, venerate, wonder at. > l o v e .
adhesive adj glued, gluey, gummed. admiring > COMPLIMENTARY, RESPECTFUL.
> STICKY. admission n 1 access, admittance,
adjoining adj abutting, adjacent, entrance, entiy. 2 acceptance,
bordering, contiguous, juxtaposed, acknowledgement, affirmation, con-
neighbouring, next, touching. Opp cession, confession, declaration, dis-
DISTANT. closure, revelation. Opp d e n ia l .
adjourn v break off, defer, discon- admit v 1 accept, allow in, let in, pro-
tinue, interrupt, postpone, put off, vide a place (in), receive, take in.
suspend. 2 admit guilt, accept, acknowledge,
adjournment n break, interruption, allow, concede, confess, declare, dis-
pause, postponement, recess, stay, close, own up, recognize, reveal, say
suspension. reluctantly. Opp d e n y .

adjust v 1 adapt, alter, amend, adolescence n boyhood, girlhood,

balance, change, convert, correct, growing up, puberty, in/your teens,
modify, put right, rectify, regu- youth.
late, remake, remodel, reorganize, adolescent adj boyish, girlish,
reshape, set, tailor, temper, tune. immature, juvenile, pubescent,
2 acclimatize, accommodate, accus- teenage, youthful. • n boy, girl, ju-
tom, fit, habituate, reconcile your- venile, minor, inf teenager, young-
self. ster, youth.
7 adviser
adopt v 1 appropriate, approve, back, superiority, take advantage of >
choose, embrace, endorse, follow, inf EXPLOIT.
go for, patronize, support, take on, advantageous adj beneficial,
take up. 2 befriend, foster, stand by, favourable, helpful, positive, prof-
take in. itable, salutary, useful, valuable,
adore v adulate, dote on, glorify, worthwhile. > g o o d . Opp u s e l e s s .
honour, love, revere, venerate, wor- adventure n 1 chance, escapade,
ship. > ADMIRE. Opp HATE. exploit, feat, gamble, occurrence,
adorn v beautify, decorate, embel- risk, undertaking, venture. 2 danger,
lish, garnish, ornament, trim. excitement, hazard.
adrift adj 1 afloat, anchorless, drift- adventurous adj 1 audacious, bold,
ing, floating. 2 aimless, astray, direc- brave, courageous, daredevil, daring,
tionless, lost, purposeless. derog foolhardy, intrepid, derog reck-
adult adj full-grown, full-size, grown- less, venturesome. 2 an adventurous
up, marriageable, mature, of age. Opp trip, challenging, dangerous, difficult,
IMMATURE. exciting, hazardous, risky. Opp u n a d -
v en t u r o u s.
adulterate v alloy, contaminate,
corrupt, debase, dilute, inf doctor, adversary n antagonist, attacker,
pollute, taint, weaken. enemy, foe, opponent.
advance n development, evolution, adverse adj 1 attacking, censorious,
forward movement, growth, head- critical, derogatory, hostile, hurt-
way, improvement, progress. • v ful, inimical, negative, uncompli-
1 approach, bear down, come near, mentaiy, unfavourable, unkind, un-
forge ahead, gain ground, go for- sympathetic. 2 adverse conditions.
ward, make headway, make deleterious, detrimental, disadvant-
progress, move forward, press on, ageous, harmful, inappropriate,
progress, inf push on. Opp r e t r e a t . opposing, prejudicial, uncongenial,
2 science advances, develop, evolve, unpropitious. Opp f a v o u r a b l e .
improve, prosper, thrive. 3 advance advertise v announce, broadcast,
your career, accelerate, assist, benefit, display, flaunt, make known, mar-
boost, further, help the progress of, ket, merchandise, inf plug, proclaim,
promote. Opp h in d e r . 4 advance a the- promote, publicize, inf push, show
ory. adduce, give, present, propose, off, tout.
submit, suggest. 5 advance money. advertisement n inf advert, bill, inf
lend, offer, pay, provide, supply. Opp blurb, circular, commercial, hand-
WITHHOLD. out, leaflet, notice, placard, inf plug,
advanced adj 1 latest, modern, poster, promotion, publicity, sign, inf
sophisticated, up-to-date. 2 advanced small ad.
ideas, avant-garde, contemporary, advice n 1 admonition, counsel,
experimental, forward-looking, guidance, help, opinion, recom-
futuristic, imaginative, innovative, mendation, tip, view, warning. 2 >
new, novel, original, pioneering, pro- NEWS.
gressive, revolutionaiy, trend-setting,
advisable adj expedient, judicious,
inf way-out. 3 advanced maths, com-
plex, difficult, hard, higher. politic, prudent, recommended,
4 advanced for her age. grown-up,
sensible. > w is e .
mature, precocious, sophisticated, advise v 1 admonish, caution, coun-
well-developed. Opp b a c k w a r d , b a s ic . sel, enjoin, exhort, guide, instruct,
recommend, suggest, urge, warn.
advantage n 1 aid, asset, assistance,
2 > INFORM.
benefit, boon, gain, help, profit,
usefulness. 2 have an advantage. adviser n confidant(e), consultant,
dominance, edge, inf head start, counsellor, guide, mentor.
advocate 8

advocate n 1 apologist, backer, afflict v affect, annoy, beset, bother,

champion, proponent, supporter. burden, cause suffering to, distress,
2 > l a w y e r . • v argue for, back, harass, harm, hurt, oppress, pain,
champion, favour, recommend, plague, torment, torture, trouble,
speak for, uphold. try, worry, wound.
aesthetic adj artistic, beautiful, cul- affluent adj 1 inf flush, si loaded,
tivated, sensitive, tasteful. Opp u g l y . moneyed, prosperous, rich, wealthy,
inf well-heeled, well-off, well-to-do.
affair n 1 activity, business, concern, 2 affluent life-style, expensive, gra-
interest, issue, matter, project, sub- cious, lavish, opulent, self-indulgent,
ject, topic, undertaking. 2 circum- sumptuous. Opp po o r .
stance, episode, event, happening,
incident, occurrence, thing. 3 love afford v 1 be rich enough, have the
affair, amour, attachment, intrigue, means, manage to give, sacrifice, inf
involvement, liaison, relationship, stand. 2 > pr o v id e .
romance. afloat adj aboard, adrift, floating, on
board ship, under sail.
affect v 1 act on, agitate, alter,
attack, change, concern, disturb, afraid adj ,1 aghast, agitated,
have an effect on, have an impact alarmed, anxious, apprehensive,
on, impinge on, impress, influence, cowardly, cowed, daunted, diffident,
move, perturb, relate to, stir, touch, faint-hearted, fearful, frightened,
trouble, upset. 2 affect an accent. hesitant, horrified, intimidated,
adopt, assume, feign, inf put on. > jittery, nervous, panicky, panic-
PRETEND. stricken, reluctant, scared, terrified,
timid, timorous, trembling, un-
affectation n artificiality, insincer- heroic, inf windy. Opp f e a r l e s s . 2 [inf]
ity, mannerism, posturing. > pr e - I’m afraid I’m late, apologetic, regret-
t enc e. ful, sorry, be afraid > f e a r .
affected adj 1. artificial, contrived, afterthought n addendum, addi-
insincere, inf put on, studied, unnat- tion, extra, postscript.
ural. > pr e t e n t io u s . 2 affected by dis-
age n 1 advancing years, decrepitude,
ease. afflicted, damaged, infected, dotage, old age, senility. 2 a bygone
injured, poisoned, stricken, troubled.
age. days, epoch, era, time. 3 [infl ages
affection n attachment, fondness, ago. lifetime, long time. • v degener-
friendliness, friendship, liking, par- ate, grow older, look older, mature,
tiality, inf soft spot, tenderness, mellow, ripen, aged > o l d .
warmth. > l o v e . agenda n list, plan, programme,
affectionate adj caring, doting, schedule, timetable.
fond, kind, tender. > l o v in g . Opp agent n broker, delegate, envoy,
ALOOF. executor, old use functionary, go-
affinity n closeness, compatibility, between, intermediary, mediator,
kinship, like-mindedness, likeness, middleman, negotiator, proxy, rep-
rapport, relationship, similarity, resentative, surrogate, trustee.
sympathy. aggravate v 1 add to, augment,
affirm v assert, aver, avow, declare, compound, exacerbate, exaggerate,
maintain, state, swear, testify. increase, inflame, intensify, make
worse, worsen. Opp a l l e v ia t e . 2 [Some
affirmation n assertion, avowal, de- think this use wrong.] > a n n o y .
claration, oath, promise, statement,
aggressive adj antagonistic, as-
testimony.
sertive, bellicose, belligerent, bully-
affirmative adj agreeing, assenting, ing, si butch, destructive, hostile, si
concurring, confirming, positive. Opp macho, militant, offensive, pugna-
NEGATIVE. cious, pushful, inf pushy, quarrel-
9 airport
some, violent, warlike. Opp d e f e n s iv e , aground adj beached, grounded,
PEACEABLE. helpless, marooned, shipwrecked,
aggressor n assailant, attacker,
stranded.
instigator, invader. aid n assistance, avail, backing, ben-
efit, cooperation, donation, funding,
agile adj acrobatic, adroit, deft,
grant, guidance, help, loan, patron-
fleet, graceful, lissom, lithe, mobile, age, relief, sponsorship, subsidy, suc-
nimble, quick-moving, sprightly, cour, support. • v abet, assist, back,
spry, supple. Opp c l u ms y . benefit, collaborate with, cooperate
agitate v 1 beat, churn, froth up, with, encourage, facilitate, help, inf
ruffle, shake, stimulate, stir, toss, lend a hand, promote, prop up, inf
work up. 2 alarm, arouse, confuse, rally round, relieve, subsidize, suc-
discomfit, disconcert, excite, fluster, cour, support.
incite, perturb, stir up, trouble, ailing adj feeble, infirm, poorly, sick,
unsettle, upset, worry. Opp c a l m . unwell, weak. > il l .
agitated > e x c it e d , n e r v o u s .
ailment n affliction, disorder, in-
agitator n firebrand, rabblerouser, firmity, sickness. > il l n e s s .
revolutionary, troublemaker.
aim n ambition, cause, design, des-
agonize v hurt, labour, suffer, worry, tination, direction, dream, focus,
wrestle. goal, hope, intent, intention, mark,
object, objective, plan, purpose, wish.
agony n anguish, distress, suffering,
• v 1 address, beam, direct, fire at,
torment, torture. > pa in .
line up, point, sight, take aim, train,
agree v 1 accede, acquiesce, admit, turn, zero in on. 2 aim to win. aspire,
allow, assent, be willing, concede, design, endeavour, essay, intend,
consent, grant, make a contract, plan, propose, resolve, strive, try,
pledge yourself, promise, undertake. want, wish.
2 accord, be unanimous, be united, aimless adj chance, directionless,
concur, correspond, fit, get on, har- purposeless, rambling, random,
monize, match, inf see eye to eye. undisciplined, unfocused. Opp pu r -
Opp d is a g r e e , agree on > c h o o s e . po s e f u l .
agree with t> e n d o r s e .
air n 1 airspace, atmosphere, ether,
agreeable adj acceptable, delight- heavens, sky. 2 fresh air. breath,
ful, enjoyable, nice. > pl e a s a n t . Opp breeze, draught, wind, poet zephyr.
DISAGREEABLE. 3 air of authority, ambience, appear-
agreement n 1 accord, compatibil- ance, aspect, aura, bearing, charac-
ity, concord, conformity, consensus, ter, demeanour, feeling, impression,
consent, consistency, correspond- look, manner, mood, style. • v 1 aer-
ence, harmony, similarity, sym- ate, dry off, freshen, ventilate. 2 air
pathy, unanimity, unity. 2 alliance, opinions, articulate, display, exhibit,
armistice, arrangement, bargain, express, give vent to, make known,
compact, contract, convention, make public, vent, voice.
covenant, deal, Fr entente, pact, aircraft n old use flying-machine.
settlement, treaty, truce, under- □ aeroplane, airliner, airship, balloon,
standing. Opp DISAGREEMENT. biplane, bomber, dirigible, fighter, glider,
agricultural adj 1 agrarian, bucolic, gunship, hang-glider, helicopter, jet,
pastoral, rural. 2 agricultural land, cul- jumbo, jump-jet, monoplane, plane, sea-
tivated, farmed, productive, tilled. plane.
airman n aviator, flier, pilot.
agriculture n agronomy, crofting,
cultivation, farming, husbandry, till- airport n aerodrome, airfield, air
ing. strip, heliport, landing-strip, runway.
airy 10

airy adj breezy, draughty, fresh, open, allay v calm, check, diminish, ease,
ventilated. Opp s t u f f y . mollify, pacify, quell, quench,
aisle n corridor, passage, passage- quieten, reduce, slake (thirst), sub-
way. due. > ALLEVIATE. Opp STIMULATE.
akin adj allied, related, similar, allegation n accusation, assertion,
charge, claim, declaration, state-
alarm n 1 alert, signal, warning.
ment, testimony.
□ alarm-clock, bell, fire-alarm, siren,
whistle. 2 anxiety, consternation, dis- allege v assert, asseverate, attest,
may, fright, nervousness, panic, aver, avow, claim, declare, depose,
uneasiness. > f e a r . • v agitate, dis- maintain, make a charge, plead,
may, distress, panic, inf put the wind state.
up, shock, startle, unnerve, worry. > allegiance n devotion, duty, faith-
FRIGHTEN. Opp REASSURE. fulness, fidelity, loyalty.
alcohol n si bevvy, inf booze, drink, allergic adj antipathetic, averse, hos-
intoxicant, liquor, spirits, wine. tile, incompatible (with), opposed.
alcoholic adj brewed, distilled, fer-
alleviate v abate, allay, ameliorate,
mented, intoxicating, inf strong. • n
addict, dipsomaniac, drunkard, in- assuage, check, diminish, ease,
ebriate. Opp TEETOTALLER. lessen, lighten, mitigate, moderate,
quell, quench, reduce, relieve, slake
alert adj active, alive (to), attentive, (thirst), soften, subdue, temper. Opp
awake, careful, eagle-eyed, heedful, AGGRAVATE.
lively, observant, on the lookout, on
the watch, on your guard, on your alliance n affiliation, agreement,
toes, perceptive, ready, sensitive, bloc, cartel, coalition, compact, con-
sharp-eyed, vigilant, watchful, wide- cordat, confederation, connection,
awake. Opp ABSENT-MINDED, INATTENTIVE. consortium, covenant, entente, fed-
• v advise, alarm, forewarn, make eration, guild, marriage, pact, part-
aware, notify, signal, tip off, warn. nership, relationship, treaty, union.
alibi n excuse, explanation. allot v allocate, allow, assign, deal
alien adj extra-terrestrial, foreign,
out, inf dish out, dispense, distrib-
outlandish, strange, unfamiliar. • n ute, inf dole out, give out, grant, pro-
foreigner, newcomer, outsider, vide, ration, share out.
stranger. allow v 1 approve, authorize, con-
alight adj ablaze, aflame, blazing, sent to, enable, grant permission for,
burning, fiery, ignited, illuminated, let, license, permit, sanction, inf
lit up, live, on fire. • v come down, stand, tolerate. Opp f o r b id . 2 acknow-
come to rest, disembark, dismount, ledge, admit, concede, grant, own.
get down, get off, land, touch down. 3 > ALLOT. Opp DENY.
align v 1 arrange in line, line up, allowance n 1 allocation, measure,
straighten up. 2 align with the opposi- portion, quota, ration, share.
tion. affiliate, ally, associate, join, 2 alimony, annuity, grant, payment,
side, sympathize. pension, pocket money. 3 allowance
alike adj analogous, cognate, com-
on the full price, deduction, discount,
parable, equivalent, identical, indis- rebate, reduction, make allowances
for > TOLERATE.
tinguishable, like, matching, parallel,
resembling, similar, twin, uniform. alloy n admixture, aggregate, amal-
Opp DISSIMILAR. gam, blend, compound, fusion, mix-
alive adj 1 animate, breathing, exist- ture.
ing, extant, flourishing, in existence, allude v allude to make an allusion
live, living, old use quick. 2 alive to to, mention, refer to, speak of, touch
new ideas. > a l e r t . Opp d e a d . on.
11 amazing
allure v attract, beguile, cajole, ference, modification, reorganiza-
charm, decoy, draw, entice, fascinate, tion, revision, transformation.
lead on, lure, magnetize, seduce, alternate vcome alternately, follow
tempt. each other, interchange, oscillate,
allusion n mention, reference, sug- replace each other, rotate, inf see-
gestion. saw, substitute for each other, take
ally n abettor, accessory, accomplice, turns.
associate, backer, collaborator, col- alternative n 1 choice, option,
league, companion, comrade, con- selection. 2 back-up, replacement,
federate, friend, helper, helpmate, substitute.
inf mate, partner, supporter. Opp altitude n elevation, height,
e n e my . • v affiliate, amalgamate, asso-
altogether adv absolutely, com-
ciate, band together, collaborate,
pletely, entirely, fully, perfectly,
combine, confederate, cooperate,
quite, thoroughly, totally, utterly,
form an alliance, fraternize, join, join
wholly.
forces, league, inf link up, marry,
merge, side, in/team up, unite. always adv consistently, constantly,
continually, continuously, endlessly,
almighty adj 1 all-powerful, omnipo-
eternally, everlastingly, evermore,
tent, supreme. 2 > b ig .
forever, invariably, perpetually, per-
almost adv about, all but, approx- sistently, regularly, repeatedly,
imately, around, as good as, just unceasingly, unfailingly, unremit-
about, nearly, not quite, practically, tingly.
virtually. amalgamate v affiliate, ally, asso-
alone adj apart, by yourself, deserted, ciate, band together, blend, coalesce,
desolate, forlorn, friendless, isolated, combine, come together, compound,
lonely, lonesome, on your own, sep- confederate, form an alliance, fuse,
arate, single, solitary, solo, unac- integrate, join, join forces, league,
companied, unassisted. inf link up, marry, merge, mix, put
aloof adj chilly, cold, cool, detached, together, synthesize, inf team up,
disinterested, dispassionate, distant, unite. Opp s pl it .
formal, frigid, haughty, impassive, amateur adj inexperienced, lay,
inaccessible, indifferent, remote, unpaid, unqualified. > a m a t e u r is h .
reserved, reticent, self-contained, • n dabbler, dilettante, enthusiast,
self-possessed, inf standoffish, super- layman, non-professional. Opp pr o -
cilious, unapproachable, uncon- f e s s io n a l .
cerned, undemonstrative, unemo- amateurish adj clumsy, crude, inf
tional, unforthcoming, unfriendly, do-it-yourself, incompetent, inept,
uninvolved, unresponsive, unsoci- inexpert, in/roughand-ready, second-
able, unsympathetic. Opp f r ie n d l y , rate, shoddy, unpolished, unprofes-
s o c ia b l e . sional, unskilful, unskilled, un-
aloud adv audibly, clearly, distinctly, trained. Opp SKILLED.
out loud. amaze v astonish, astound, awe,
also adv additionally, besides, fur- bewilder, confound, confuse, daze,
thermore, in addition, moreover, joc disconcert, dumbfound, inf flabber-
to boot, too. gast, perplex, inf rock, shock, stag-
alter v adapt, adjust, amend, change, ger, startle, stun, stupefy, surprise,
convert, edit, emend, enlarge, mod- amazed > s u r pr is e d .
ify, reconstruct, reduce, reform, amazing adj astonishing, astound-
remake, remodel, reorganize, re- ing, awe-inspiring, breathtaking,
shape, revise, transform, vary. exceptional, exciting, extraordinary,
alteration n adaptation, adjustment, in/fantastic, incredible, miraculous,
amendment, change, conversion, dif- notable, phenomenal, prodigious,
ambassador 12

remarkable, inf sensational, shock- amiable adj affable, agreeable, am-

ing, special, staggering, startling, icable, friendly, genial, good-natured,
stunning, stupendous, unusual, inf kind-hearted, kindly, likeable, well-
wonderful. Opp o r d in a r y . disposed. Opp UNFRIENDLY.
ambassador n agent, attache, Fr ammunition n buckshot, bullet,
charge d’affaires, consul, diplomat, cartridge, grenade, missile, pro-
emissary, envoy, legate, nuncio, jectile, round, shell, shrapnel.
plenipotentiary, representative. amoral adj lax, loose, unethical,
ambiguous adj ambivalent, confus- unprincipled, without standards. t>
ing, enigmatic, equivocal, indefinite, IMMORAL. Opp MORAL.
indeterminate, puzzling, uncertain, amorous adj affectionate, ardent,
unclear, vague, woolly. t> u n c e r t a in . carnal, doting, enamoured, erotic,
Opp DEFINITE. fond, impassioned, loving, lustful,
ambition n 1 commitment, drive, passionate, si randy, sexual, inf sexy.
energy, enterprise, enthusiasm, inf Opp COLD.
go, initiative, inf push, pushfulness, amount n aggregate, bulk, entirety,
self-assertion, thrust, zeal. 2 aim, extent, lot, mass, measure, quantity,
aspiration, desire, dream, goal, hope, quantum, reckoning, size, sum, sup-
ideal, intention, object, objective, tar- ply, total, value, volume, whole. • v
get, wish. amount to add up to, aggregate, be
ambitious adj 1 assertive, commit- equivalent to, come to, equal, make,
ted, eager, energetic, enterprising, mean, total.
enthusiastic, go-ahead, inf go-getting, ample adj abundant, bountiful,
hard-working, industrious, keen, inf broad, capacious, commodious, con-
pushy, zealous. 2 ambitious ideas, inf siderable, copious, extensive, fruit-
big, far-reaching, grand, grandiose, ful, generous, great, large, lavish,
large-scale, unrealistic. Opp a pa t h e t ic . liberal, munificent, plentiful, pro-
ambivalent adj ambiguous, back- fuse, roomy, spacious, substantial,
handed (compliment), confusing, unstinting, voluminous. t> b ig , pl e n t y .
doubtful, equivocal, inconclusive, Opp INSUFFICIENT.
inconsistent, indefinite, self-contra- amplify v 1 add to, augment,
dictory, inf two-faced, unclear, broaden, develop, dilate upon, elab-
uncommitted, unresolved, unsettled. orate, enlarge, expand, expatiate on,
t> UNCERTAIN. extend, fill out, lengthen, make
ambush n ambuscade, attack, snare, fuller, make longer, supplement.
surprise attack, trap. • v attack, 2 amplify sound, boost, heighten,
ensnare, entrap, intercept, lie in wait increase, intensify, magnify, make
for, pounce on, surprise, swoop on, louder, rpise the volume. Opp
trap, waylay. DECREASE.
amenable adj accommodating, amputate v chop off, cut off, dock,
acquiescent, adaptable, agreeable, lop off, poll, pollard, remove, sever,
biddable, complaisant, compliant, truncate. t> c u t .
cooperative, deferential, docile, open- amuse v absorb, beguile, cheer (up),
minded, persuadable, responsive, delight, divert, engross, enliven,
submissive, tractable, willing. Opp entertain, gladden, interest, involve,
OBSTINATE. make laugh, occupy, please, raise a
amend v adapt, adjust, alter, ameli- smile, inf tickle. Opp b o r e , amusing
orate, change, convert, correct, edit, > ENJOYABLE, FUNNY.
emend, improve, make better, mend, amusement n 1 delight, enjoyment,
modify, put right, rectify, reform, fun, hilarity, laughter, mirth. t> me r -
remedy, reorganize, reshape, revise, r ime n t . 2 distraction, diversion, enter-
transform, vary. tainment, game, hobby, interest,
13 anguish
joke, leisure activity, pastime, play, angel n archangel, cherub, divine
pleasure, recreation, sport. messenger, seraph.
anaemic adj bloodless, colourless, angelic adj 1 beatific, blessed, celes-
feeble, frail, pale, pallid, pasty, sal- tial, cherubic, divine, ethereal, heav-
low, sickly, unhealthy, wan, weak. enly, holy, seraphic, spiritual.
2 angelic behaviour, exemplary, inno-
analogy n comparison, likeness,
metaphor, parallel, resemblance, cent, pious, pure, saintly, unworldly,
similarity, simile. virtuous. > g o o d . Opp d e v il is h .
anger n angry feelings, annoyance,
analyse v anatomize, assay, break
antagonism, bitterness, choler, dis-
down, criticize, dissect, evaluate, pleasure, exasperation, fury, hostil-
examine, interpret, investigate, scru- ity, indignation, ire, irritability,
tinize, separate out, take apart, test. outrage, passion, pique, rage, ran-
analysis n breakdown, critique, dis- cour, resentment, spleen, tantrum,
section, enquiiy, evaluation, exam- temper, vexation, wrath. • v inf
ination, interpretation, investiga- aggravate, antagonize, si bug, dis-
tion, inf post-mortem, scrutiny, study, please, inf drive mad, enrage, exas-
test. Opp SYNTHESIS. perate, incense, incite, inflame,
infuriate, irritate, madden, make
analytical adj analytic, critical, inf
in-depth, inquiring, investigative, angiy, inf make someone’s blood
logical, methodical, penetrating, boil, inf needle, outrage, pique, pro-
questioning, rational, searching, sys- voke, inf rile, vex. > a n n o y . Opp pa c if y .
tematic. Opp SUPERFICIAL. angle n 1 bend, comer, crook, nook,
point. 2 a new angle, approach, out-
anarchy n bedlam, chaos, confusion,
look, perspective, point of view, posi-
disorder, disorganization, insurrec- tion, slant, standpoint, viewpoint.
tion, lawlessness, misgovernment, • v bend, bevel, chamfer, slant, turn,
misrule, mutiny, pandemonium, twist.
riot. Opp ORDER.
angry adj inf aerated, apoplectic, bad-
ancestor n antecedent, forebear, tempered, bitter, inf bristling, inf
forefather, forerunner, precursor, choked, choleric, cross, disgruntled,
predecessor, progenitor. enraged, exasperated, excited, fiery,
ancestry n blood, derivation, fuming, furious, heated, hostile, inf
descent, extraction, family, genea- hot under the collar, ill-tempered,
logy, heredity, line, lineage, origin, incensed, indignant, infuriated, inf
parentage, pedigree, roots, stock, in high dudgeon, irascible, irate,
strain. livid, mad, outraged, provoked, rag-
ing, inf ratty, raving, resentful, riled,
anchor v berth, make fast, moor,
seething, smouldering, inf sore,
secure, tie up. > f a s t e n . splenetic, si steamed up, stormy,
anchorage n harbour, haven, tempestuous, vexed, inf ugly, inf up
marina, moorings, port, refuge, sanc- in arms, wild, wrathful. > a n n o y e d .
tuary, shelter. Opp c a l m , be angry, become angry
ancient adj 1 aged, antediluvian,
inf be in a paddy, inf blow up, boil,
antiquated, antique, archaic, elderly, bridle, bristle, flare up, inf fly off the
fossilized, obsolete, old, old-fash- handle, fulminate, fume, inf get
ioned, outmoded, out-of-date, passe, steamed up, lose your temper, rage,
superannuated, time-worn, vener- rant, rave, inf see red, seethe, snap,
able. 2 ancient times, bygone, earlier, storm, make angry > a n g e r .
early, former, poet immemorial, inf anguish n agony, anxiety, distress,
olden, past, prehistoric, primeval, grief, heartache, misery, pain, sor-
primitive, primordial, remote, old use row, suffering, torment, torture,
of yore. Opp m o d e r n . tribulation, woe.
angular 14

angular adj bent, crooked, indented, spirited, sprightly, vibrant, vigorous,

jagged, sharp-cornered, zigzag. Opp vivacious, zestful. Opp l e t h a r g ic .
STRAIGHT. animation n activity, briskness,
animal adj beastly, bestial, brutish, eagerness, ebullience, energy, enthu-
carnal, fleshly, inhuman, instinctive, siasm, excitement, exhilaration, gai-
physical, savage, sensual, subhuman, ety, high spirits, life, liveliness, inf
wild. • n beast, being, brute, crea- pep, sparkle, spirit, sprightliness,
ture, pl fauna, organism, pl wildlife. verve, vigour, vitality, vivacity, zest.
□ amphibian, arachnid, biped, carnivore, Opp l e t h a r g y .
herbivore, insect, invertebrate, mammal, animosity n acerbity, acrimony, an-
marsupial, mollusc, monster, omnivore, imus, antagonism, antipathy, asper-
pet, quadruped, reptile, rodent, scav- ity, aversion, bad blood, bitterness,
enger, vertebrate. t> b ir d , f is h , in s e c t . dislike, enmity, grudge, hate, hatred,
□ aardvark, antelope, ape, armadillo, hostility, ill will, loathing, malevol-
baboon, badger, bear, beaver, bison, buf- ence, malice, malignancy, malignity,
falo, camel, caribou, cat, chamois, chee- odium, rancour, resentment, sar-
tah, chimpanzee, chinchilla, chipmunk, casm, sharpness, sourness, spite,
coypu, deer, dog, dolphin, donkey, dor- unfriendliness, venom, vindictive-
mouserdromedary, elephant, elk, ermine, ness, virulence. Opp f r ie n d l in e s s .
ferret, fox, frog, gazelle, gerbil, gibbon, annex v acquire, appropriate, con-
giraffe, gnu, goat, gorilla, grizzly bear, quer, occupy, purloin, seize, take
guinea-pig, hamster, hare, hedgehog, hip- over, usurp.
popotamus, horse, hyena, ibex, impala,
jackal, jaguar, jerboa, kangaroo, koala, annihilate v abolish, destroy, elim-
lemming, lemur, leopard, lion, llama, inate, eradicate, erase, exterminate,
lynx, marmoset, marmot, marten, mink, extinguish, extirpate, inf finish off,
mongoose, monkey, moose, mouse, inf kill off, inf liquidate, nullify, oblit-
musquash, ocelot, octopus, opossum, erate, raze, slaughter, wipe out.
orang-utan, otter, panda, panther, pig, annotation n comment, comment-
platypus, polar bear, pole-cat, porcupine, ary, elucidation, explanation, foot-
porpoise, rabbit, rat, reindeer, rhinoceros, note, gloss, interpretation, note.
roe, salamander, scorpion, seal, sea-lion, announce v 1 advertise, broadcast,
sheep, shrew, skunk, snake, spider, squir- declare, disclose, divulge, give notice
rel, stoat, tapir, tiger, toad, vole, wal- of, intimate, make public, notify, pro-
laby, walrus, weasel, whale, wildebeest, claim, promulgate, propound, publi-
wolf, wolverine, wombat, yak, zebra. cize, publish, put out, report, reveal,
animate adj alive, breathing, con- state. 2 announce a speaker, introduce,
scious, feeling, live, living, sentient. lead into, preface, present.
t> ANIMATED. Opp INANIMATE. • V activ- announcement n advertisement,
ate, arouse, brighten up, inf buck up, bulletin, communique, declaration,
cheer up, encourage, energize, disclosure, intimation, notification,
enliven, excite, exhilarate, fire, gal- proclamation, promulgation, pub-
vanize, incite, inspire, invigorate, lication, report, revelation, state-
kindle, liven up, make lively, move, ment.
inf pep up, inf perk up, quicken, reju- announcer n anchorman, anchor-
venate, revitalize, revive, rouse, woman, broadcaster, commentator,
spark, spur, stimulate, stir, urge, compere, disc jockey, DJ, poet har-
vitalize. binger, herald, master of ceremonies,
animated adj active, alive, bright, inf MC, messenger, newscaster, news-
brisk, bubbling, busy, cheerful, reader, reporter, town crier.
eager, ebullient, energetic, enthusi- annoy v inf aggravate, antagonize,
astic, excited, exuberant, gay, impas- inf badger, be an annoyance to,
sioned, lively, passionate, quick, bother, si bug, chagrin, displease, dis-
15 antiquity
tress, drive mad, exasperate, fret, return. 2 explain, resolve, solve.
gall, inf get at, inf get on your nerves, 3 answer a charge, counter, defend
grate, harass, harry, infuriate, irk, yourself against, disprove, rebut,
irritate, jar, madden, make cross, refute. 4 answer a need, correspond
molest, inf needle, inf nettle, offend, to, echo, fit, match up to, meet, sat-
peeve, pester, pique, inf plague, pro- isfy, serve, suffice, suit, answer back
voke, put out, rankle, rile, inf rub up > ARGUE.
the wrong way, ruffle, inf spite, tease, antagonism n antipathy, dissen-
trouble, try (someone’s patience), sion, enmity, friction, opposition,
upset, vex, worry. > a n g e r . Opp pl e a s e . rancour, rivalry, strife. > h o s t il it y .
annoyance n 1 chagrin, crossness,
antagonize v alienate, anger,
displeasure, exasperation, irritation,
annoy, embitter, estrange, irritate,
pique, vexation. > a n g e r . 2 Noise is an
make an enemy of, offend, provoke,
annoyance, inf aggravation, bother,
inf put off, upset.
harassment, irritant, nuisance,
offence, inf pain in the neck, pest, anthem n canticle, chant, chorale,
provocation, worry. hymn, introit, paean, psalm.
annoyed adj chagrined, cross, dis- anthology n collection, com-
pleased, exasperated, inf huffy, ir- pendium, compilation, digest, mis-
ritated, jaundiced, inf miffed, inf cellany, selection, treasury.
needled, inf nettled, offended, inf anticipate v 1 forestall, obviate, pre-
peeved, piqued, inf put out, inf riled, clude, pre-empt, prevent. 2 [Many
inf shirty, inf sore, upset, vexed. > think this use incorrect.] > f o r e s e e .
a n g r y . Opp pl e a s e d , be annoyed inf go
off in a huff, take offence, inf take anticlimax n bathos, inf comedown,
umbrage. inf damp squib, disappointment, inf
let-down.
annoying adj inf aggravating, both-
ersome, displeasing, exasperating, antics plur n buffoonery, capers,
galling, grating, inconvenient, in- clowning, escapades, foolery, fooling,
furiating, irksome, irritating, jarring, inf larking-about, pranks, inf sky-
maddening, offensive, provocative, larking, tomfoolery, tricks.
provoking, tiresome, troublesome, antidote n antitoxin, corrective,
trying, upsetting, vexatious, vexing, countermeasure, cure, drug, neut-
wearisome, worrying. ralizing agent, remedy.
anoint v 1 embrocate, grease, lub- antiquarian n antiquary, antiques
ricate, oil, rub, smear. 2 bless, con- expert, collector, dealer.
secrate, dedicate, hallow, sanctify.
antiquated adj aged, anachronistic,
anonymous adj 1 incognito, name-
ancient, antediluvian, archaic, dated,
less, unacknowledged, unidentified, medieval, obsolete, old, old-fash-
unknown, unnamed, unspecified, ioned, inf out, out-dated, outmoded,
unsung. 2 anonymous letters, unat- out-of-date, passe, inf past it, inf pre-
tributed, unsigned. 3 anonymous style. historic, inf primeval, primitive,
characterless, impersonal, nondes- quaint, superannuated, unfashion-
cript, unidentifiable, unrecognizable, able. > ANTIQUE. Opp NEW.
unremarkable.
antique adj antiquarian, collectible,
answer n 1 acknowledgement, inf
historic, old-fashioned, traditional,
comeback, reaction, rejoinder, reply,
veteran, vintage. > a n t iq u a t e d . • n
response, retort, riposte. 2 explana-
collectible, collector’s item, curio,
tion, outcome, solution. 3 answer to a
curiosity, Fr objet d’art, rarity.
charge, countercharge, defence, plea,
rebuttal, refutation, vindication. • v antiquity n classical times, days
1 acknowledge, give an answer, gone by, former times, inf olden days,
react, rejoin, reply, respond, retort, the past.
antiseptic 16

antiseptic adj aseptic, clean, disin- crowning moment, culmination,

fectant, disinfected, germ free, height, high point, zenith. Opp n a d ir .
germicidal, hygienic, medicated, aphrodisiac adj arousing, erotic, inf
sanitized, sterile, sterilized, steriliz- sexy, stimulating.
ing, unpolluted. apologetic adj ashamed, blushing,
antisocial adj alienated, anarchic, • conscience-stricken, contrite, pen-
disagreeable, disorderly, disruptive, itent, red-faced, regretful, remorse-
misanthropic, nasty, obnoxious, ful, repentant, rueful, sorry. Opp
offensive, rebellious, rude, trouble- u n r e pe n t a n t .
some, uncooperative, undisciplined, apologize v ask pardon, be apolo-
unruly, unsociable. t> u n f r ie n d l y . Opp getic, express regret, make an apo-
SOCIABLE. logy, repent, say sorry.
anxiety n 1 angst, apprehension, apology n acknowledgement, con-
concern, disquiet, distress, doubt, fession, defence, excuse, explanation,
dread, fear, foreboding, fretfulness, justification, plea.
misgiving, nervousness, qualm,
scruple, strain, stress, tension, un- apostle n crusader, disciple, evan-
certainty, unease, worry. 2 anxiety gelist, follower, messenger, mission-
to succeed, desire, eagerness, enthu- ary, preacher, propagandist, pros-
siasm, impatience, keenness, long- elytizer, teacher.
ing, solicitude, willingness. appal v alarm, disgust, dismay, dis-
anxious adj 1 afraid, agitated, tress, harrow, horrify, nauseate, out-
alarmed, apprehensive, concerned, rage, revolt, shock, sicken, terrify,
distracted, distraught, distressed, dis- unnerve. > f r ig h t e n , appalling >
turbed, edgy, fearful, inf fraught, fret- ATROCIOUS, BAD, FRIGHTENING.
ful, infjittery, nervous, inf nervy, inf apparatus n appliance, inf contrap-
on edge, overwrought, perturbed, tion, device, equipment, gadget, inf
restless, tense, troubled, uneasy, gear, implement, instrument,
upset, watchful, worried. 2 anxious machine, machinery, mechanism, inf
to succeed, avid, careful, desirous, inf set-up, system, inf tackle, tool, uten-
desperate, inf dying, eager, impa- sil.
tient, intent, inf itching, keen, long- apparent adj blatant, clear, con-
ing, solicitous, willing, yearning, be spicuous, detectable, discernible,
anxious > w o r r y . evident, manifest, noticeable,
apathetic adj casual, cool, dispas- observable, obvious, ostensible,
sionate, dull, emotionless, half- overt, patent, perceptible, recogniz-
hearted, impassive, inactive, indif- able, self-explanatory, unconcealed,
ferent, indolent, languid, lethargic, unmistakable, visible. Opp h id d e n .
listless, passive, phlegmatic, slow, apparition n chimera, ghost, hallu-
sluggish, tepid, torpid, unambi- cination, illusion, manifestation,
tious, uncommitted, unconcerned, phantasm, phantom, presence,
unenterprising, unenthusiastic, shade, spectre, spirit, inf spook,
unfeeling, uninterested, uninvolved, vision, wraith.
unmotivated, unresponsive. Opp
appeal n 1 application, call, Fr cri
ENTHUSIASTIC.
de coeur, cry, entreaty, petition, plea,
apathy n coolness, inactivity, in- prayer, request, solicitation, sup-
difference, lassitude, lethargy, list- plication. 2 allure, attractiveness,
lessness, passivity, torpor. Opp e n t h u - charisma, charm, inf pull, seductive-
s ia s m . ness. • v ask earnestly, beg, beseech,
apex n 1 crest, crown, head, peak, call, canvass, cry out, entreat,
pinnacle, point, summit, tip, top, ver- implore, invoke, petition, plead,
tex. 2 apex of your career, acme, pray, request, solicit, supplicate,
apogee, climax, consummation, appeal to > a t t r a c t .
17 approach
appear v 1 arise, arrive, attend, bearing (on), pertain, refer, relate.
begin, be published, be revealed, be 3 apply common sense, bring into use,
seen, inf bob up, come, come into employ, exercise, implement, prac-
view, come out, inf crop up, enter, tise, use, utilize, wield, apply for >
develop, emerge, inf heave into sight, r e q u e s t , apply yourself > c o n c e n -
loom, materialize, occur, originate, t r a t e.
show, inf show up, spring up, sur- appoint v 1 arrange, authorize,
face, turn up. 2 I appear to be wrong. decide on, determine, establish, fix,
look, seem, turn out. 3 appear in a ordain, prescribe, settle. 2 appoint you
play. t> PERFORM. to do a job. assign, choose, co-opt, del-
appearance n 1 arrival, advent, egate, depute, designate, detail, elect,
emergence, presence, rise. 2 a smart make an appointment, name, nom-
appearance, air, aspect, bearing, inate, inf plump for, select, settle
demeanour, exterior, impression, on, vote for.
likeness, look, mien, semblance. appointment n 1 arrangement,
appease v assuage, calm, conciliate, assignation, consultation, date,
humour, mollify, pacify, placate, pro- engagement, fixture, interview,
pitiate, quiet, reconcile, satisfy, meeting, rendezvous, session, old use
soothe, inf sweeten, tranquillize, win tiyst. 2 choice, choosing, commis-
over. Opp ANGER. sioning, election, naming, nomina-
appendix n addendum, addition, tion, selection. 3 job, office, place,
annexe, codicil, epilogue, postscript, position, post, situation.
rider, supplement. appreciate v 1 admire, applaud,
appetite n craving, demand, desire, approve of, be grateful for, be sens-
eagerness, fondness, greed, hanker- itive to, cherish, commend, enjoy,
ing, hunger, keenness, longing, lust, esteem, favour, find worthwhile, like,
passion, predilection, proclivity, rel- praise, prize, rate highly, regard
ish, inf stomach, taste, thirst, urge, highly, respect, sympathize with,
willingness, wish, yearning, inf yen, treasure, value, welcome. 2 appreciate
zeal, zest. the facts, acknowledge, apprehend,
comprehend, know, realize, recog-
appetizing adj delicious, inf more-
nize, see, understand. 3 value ap-
ish, mouthwatering, tasty, tempting, preciates. build up, escalate, gain, go
applaud v acclaim, approve, in/bring up, grow, improve, increase, inflate,
the house down, cheer, clap, com- mount, rise, soar, strengthen. Opp
mend, compliment, congratulate, DEPRECIATE, DESPISE, DISREGARD.
eulogize, extol, inf give someone a apprehensive adj afraid, con-
hand, give someone an ovation, hail, cerned, disturbed, edgy, fearful, inf
laud, praise, salute. Opp c r it ic iz e . jittery, nervous, inf nervy, inf on edge,
applause n acclaim, acclamation, troubled, uneasy, worried. > a n x io u s .
approval, cheering, clapping, eclat, Opp f e a r l e s s .
ovation, plaudits. t> pr a is e . apprentice n beginner, learner,
appliance n apparatus, contraption, novice, probationer, pupil, starter,
device, gadget, implement, instru- tiro, trainee.
ment, machine, mechanism, tool, approach n 1 advance, advent,
utensil. arrival, coming, movement, nearing.
applicant n aspirant, candidate, 2 access, doorway, entrance, entiy,
competitor, entrant, interviewee, passage, road, way in. 3 your approach
participant, postulant. to work, attitude, course, manner,
apply v 1 administer, affix, bring means, method, mode, Lat modus
into contact, lay on, put on, rub on, operandi, procedure, style, system,
spread, stick. t> f a s t e n . 2 rules apply to technique, way. 4 an approach for help.
all. appertain, be relevant, have a appeal, application, invitation, offer,
approachable 18

overture, proposal, proposition. • v approximately adv about,

1 advance, bear down, catch up, approaching, around, Lat circa, close
come near, draw near, gain (on), to, just about, loosely, more or less,
loom, move towards, near, progress. nearly, inf nigh on, inf pushing,
Opp r e t r e a t . 2 approach a task. > b e g in . roughly, round about.
3 approach someone for help. > c o n t a c t . aptitude n ability, bent, capability,
approachable adj accessible, af- facility, fitness, flair, gift, suitability,
fable, informal, kind, open, relaxed, talent. > s k il l .
sympathetic, inf unstuffy, well-dis- arbitrary adj 1 capricious, casual,
posed. > FRIENDLY. Opp ALOOF. chance, erratic, fanciful, illogical,
appropriate adj applicable, appos- indiscriminate, irrational, random,
ite, apropos, apt, becoming, befitting, subjective, unplanned, unpredict-
compatible, correct, decorous, able, unreasonable, whimsical, wil-
deserved, due, felicitous, fit, fitting, ful. Opp me t h o d ic a l . 2 arbitrary rule.
germane, happy, just, old use meet, absolute, autocratic, despotic, dic-
opportune, pertinent, proper, rel- tatorial, high-handed, imperious,
evant, right, seasonable, seemly, summary, tyrannical, tyrannous,
suitable, tactful, tasteful, timely, uncompromising.
well-judged, well-suited, well-timed. arbitrate v adjudicate, decide the
Opp in a ppr o pr ia t e . • v annex, arrogate, outcome, intercede, judge, make
commandeer, confiscate, expropri- peace, mediate, negotiate, pass
ate, gain control of, inf hijack, re- judgement, referee, settle, umpire.
quisition, seize, take, take over,
USUrp. t> STEAL. arbitration n adjudication, inf good
offices, intercession, judgement,
approval n 1 acclaim, acclamation, mediation, negotiation, settlement.
admiration, applause, appreciation,
approbation, commendation, es- arbitrator n adjudicator, arbiter,
teem, favour, liking, plaudits, praise, go-between, intermediary, judge,
regard, respect, support. Opp d is a p - mediator, middleman, negotiator,
pr o v a l . 2 acceptance, acquiescence, ombudsman, peacemaker, referee,
agreement, assent, authorization, inf inf trouble-shooter, umpire.
blessing, confirmation, consent, arch n arc, archway, bridge, vault.
endorsement, inf go-ahead, inf green • v arc, bend, bow. > c u r v e .
light, licence, mandate, inf OK, per- archetype n classic, example, ideal,
mission, ratification, sanction, seal, model, original, paradigm, pattern,
stamp, support, inf thumbs up, vali- precursor, prototype, standard.
dation. Opp REFUSAL.
archives plur n annals, chronicles,
approve v accede to, accept, affirm,
documents, history, libraries, me-
agree to, allow, assent to, authorize, morials, museums, papers, records,
inf back, inf bless, confirm, consent registers.
to, countenance, endorse, inf give
your blessing to, inf go along with, ardent adj eager, enthusiastic, fer-
pass, permit, ratify, inf rubber-stamp, vent, hot, impassioned, intense,
sanction, sign, subscribe to, support, keen, passionate, warm, zealous. Opp
tolerate, uphold, validate. Opp r e f u s e , APATHETIC.
v e t o , approve of > a d m ir e . arduous adj backbreaking, demand-
approximate adj close, estimated, ing, exhausting, gruelling, heavy,
imprecise, inexact, loose, near, herculean, laborious, onerous, pun-
rough. Opp e x a c t . • v approximate to ishing, rigorous, severe, strenuous,
approach, be close to, be similar to, taxing, tiring, tough, uphill. > d if f i -
border on, come near to, equal c u l t . Opp EASY.
roughly, look like, resemble, simu- area n 1 acreage, breadth, expanse,
late, verge on. extent, patch, sheet, size, space,
 19 array
square-footage, stretch, surface, • v equip, fortify, furnish, provide,
tract, width. 2 district, environment, supply, arms > w e a po n (s ).
environs, locality, neighbourhood, armed services pl n force, forces,
part, precinct, province, quarter, troops. □ airforce, army, militia, navy.
region, sector, terrain, territory, □ cavalry, infantry. □ battalion, brigade,
vicinity, zone. 3 an area of study, field, cohort, company, corps, foreign legion,
sphere, subject. garrison, legion, patrol, platoon, rear-
argue v 1 answer back, inf bandy guard, regiment, reinforcements, squad,
words, bargain, bicker, debate, delib- squadron, task-force, vanguard. >
erate, demur, differ, disagree, dis- FIGHTER, RANK, SOLDIER.
cuss, dispute, dissent, expostulate, armistice n agreement, cease-fire,
fall out, feud, fight, haggle, have an peace, treaty, truce.
argument, inf have words, object,
armoury n ammunition-dump, ar-
protest, quarrel, remonstrate, inf
senal, depot, magazine, ordnance
row, spar, squabble, take exception,
depot, stockpile.
wrangle. 2 argue a case, assert, claim,
contend, demonstrate, hold, main- aroma n bouquet, fragrance, odour,
tain, make a case, plead, prove, perfume, redolence, savour, scent,
reason, show, suggest. smell, whiff.
arouse v awaken, call forth, encour-
argument n 1 altercation, bicker-
ing, clash, conflict, controversy, dif- age, foment, foster, kindle, provoke,
ference (of opinion), disagreement, quicken, stimulate, stir up, inf whip
dispute, expostulation, feud, fight, Up. > CAUSE. Opp ALLAY.
protest, quarrel, remonstration, row, arrange v 1 adjust, align, array, cat-
inf set-to, squabble, inf tiff, wrangle. egorize, classify, collate, display, dis-
2 consultation, debate, defence, pose, distribute, grade, group, lay
deliberation, dialectic, discussion, out, line up, marshal, order, organ-
exposition, polemic. 3 argument of a ize, inf pigeon-hole, position, put in
lecture, abstract, case, contention, order, range, rank, set out, sift, sort
gist, hypothesis, idea, outline, plot, (out), space out, systematize, tabu-
reasoning, summary, synopsis, late, tidy up. 2 arrange a party, bring
theme, thesis, view. about, contrive, coordinate, devise,
manage, organize, plan, prepare, see
arid adj 1 barren, desert, dry, fruit- to, settle, set up. 3 arrange music.
less, infertile, lifeless, parched, ster- adapt, harmonize, orchestrate, score,
ile, torrid, unproductive, waste, set.
waterless. Opp f r u it f u l . 2 arid work.
boring, dreary, dull, pointless, arrangement n 1 adjustment, align-
tedious, uninspired, uninteresting, ment, design, disposition, distribu-
vapid. tion, grouping, layout, marshalling,
organization, planning, positioning,
arise v come up, crop up, get up, setting out, spacing, tabulation. >
rise. > a ppe a r . a r r a y . 2 agreement, bargain, com-
aristocrat n grandee, lady, lord, pact, contract, deal, pact, scheme,
noble, nobleman, noblewoman, settlement, terms, understanding.
patrician. > pe e r . 3 musical arrangement, adaptation,
harmonization, orchestration, set-
aristocratic adj inf blueblooded, ting, version.
courtly, elite, gentle, highborn, array n arrangement, assemblage,
lordly, noble, patrician, princely, collection, demonstration, display,
royal, thoroughbred, titled, upper exhibition, formation, inf line-up,
class. muster, panoply, parade, presenta-
arm n appendage, bough, branch, tion, show, spectacle. • v 1 adorn,
extension, limb, offshoot, projection. apparel, attire, clothe, deck, decorate,
arrest 20

dress, equip, fit out, garb, rig out, artful adj astute, canny, clever,
robe, wrap. 2 > a r r a n g e . crafty, cunning, deceitful, designing,
devious, inf fly, inf foxy, ingenious,
arrest n apprehension, capture,
knowing, scheming, shrewd, skilful,
detention, seizure. • v 1 bar, block,
sly, smart, sophisticated, subtle,
check, delay, end, halt, hinder,
tricky, wily. Opp n a iv e .
impede, inhibit, interrupt, obstruct,
prevent, restrain, retard, slow, stem, article n 1 item, object, thing. 2 mag-
stop. 2 arrest a suspect, apprehend, inf azine article. > w r it in g .
book, capture, catch, inf collar, articulate adj clear, coherent, com-
detain, have up, hold, inf nab, inf prehensible, distinct, eloquent,
nick, inf pinch, inf run in, seize, take expressive, fluent, derog glib, intelli-
into custody, take prisoner. gible, lucid, understandable, vocal.
arrival n 1 advent, appearance, Opp INARTICULATE. • V > SPEAK.
approach, coming, entrance, home- articulated adj bending, flexible,
coming, landing, return, touchdown. hinged, jointed.
2 new arrivals, caller, newcomer, vis- artificial adj 1 fabricated, made-up,
itor. man-made, manufactured, synthetic,
arrive v 1 appear, come, disembark, unnatural. 2 artificial style, affected,
drive up, drop in, enter, get in, land, assumed, bogus, concocted, con-
make an entrance, inf roll in, inf roll trived, counterfeit, factitious, fake,
up, show up, touch down, turn up. false, feigned, forced, imitation,
2 > s u c c e e d , arrive at > r e a c h . insincere, laboured, mock, inf
phoney, pretended, pseudo, inf put
arrogant adj boastful, brash, brazen, on, sham, simulated, spurious,
bumptious, cavalier, inf cocky, con- unreal. Opp n a t u r a l .
ceited, condescending, disdainful,
artist n craftsman, craftswoman.
egotistical, haughty, inf high and
mighty, high-handed, imperious, □ architect, carpenter, cartoonist, com-
impudent, insolent, lofty, lordly, mercial artist, designer, draughtsman,
overbearing, patronizing, pompous, draughtswoman, engraver, goldsmith,
presumptuous, proud, scornful, self- graphic designer, illustrator, mason,
admiring, self-important, smug, painter, photographer, potter, printer,
snobbish, inf snooty, inf stuck-up, sculptor, silversmith, smith, weaver.
supercilious, superior, vain. Opp mo d - > e n t e r t a in e r , m u s ic ia n , pe r f o r me r .
est . artistic adj aesthetic, attractive,
beautiful, creative, cultured, decor-
arsonist n fire-raiser, incendiary,
ative, inf designer, imaginative,
pyromaniac. ornamental, tasteful. Opp u g l y .
art n 1 aptitude, artistry, cleverness, ascend v climb, come up, defy grav-
craft, craftsmanship, dexterity, ity, fly, go up, levitate, lift off, make
expertise, facility, knack, proficiency, an ascent, mount, move up, rise,
skilfulness, skill, talent, technique, scale, slope up, soar, take off. Opp
touch, trick. 2 artwork, craft, fine DESCEND.
art. □ architecture, batik, carpentry,
ascent n ascension, climb, gradient,
cloisonne, collage, crochet, drawing, em-
broidery, enamelling, engraving, etch- hill, incline, ramp, rise, slope. Opp
ing, fashion design, graphics, handi- DESCENT.
craft, illustration, jewellery, knitting, ascertain v confirm, determine, dis-
linocut, lithography, marquetry, metal- cover, establish, find out, identify,
work, modelling, monoprint, needle- learn, make certain, make sure,
work, origami, painting, patchwork, settle, verify.
photography, pottery, printmaking, ascetic adj abstemious, austere, cel-
sculpture, sewing, sketching, spinning, ibate, chaste, frugal, harsh, hermit-
weaving, woodcut, woodwork. like, plain, puritanical, restrained,
21 assertive
rigorous, selfcontrolled, self-denying, ing, objective, purpose, wish, yearn-
selfdisciplined, severe, spartan, strict, ing.
temperate. Opp s e l f -in d u l g e n t . aspire v aspire to aim for, crave,
ash n burnt remains, dnders, clinker, desire, dream of, hope for, long for,
embers. pursue, seek, set your sights on,
strive after, want, wish for, yearn for.
ashamed adj 1 abashed, apologetic, aspiring > po t e n t ia l .
chagrined, chastened, conscience-
stricken, contrite, discomfited, dis- assail v assault, bombard, pelt, set
tressed, guilty, humbled, humiliated, On. > ATTACK.
mortified, penitent, red-faced, re- assault n battery, inf GBH, mugging,
morseful, repentant, rueful, shame- rape. > a t t a c k . • v abuse, assail, inf
faced, soriy, upset. 2 ashamed of beat up, inf do over, fall on, fight, fly
your nakedness, bashful, blushing, at, jump on, lash out at, in/lay into,
demure, diffident, embarrassed, mob, molest, mug, inf pitch into,
modest, prudish, self-conscious, pounce on, rape, rush at, set about,
sheepish, shy. Opp s h a me l e s s . set on, strike at, violate, inf wade
into. > ATTACK.
ask v appeal, apply, badger, beg,
beseech, catechize, crave, demand, assemble v 1 come together, con-
enquire, entreat, implore, impor- gregate, convene, converge, crowd,
tune, inquire, interrogate, invite, flock, gather, group, herd, join up,
petition, plead, pose a question, pray, meet, rally round, swarm, throng
press, query, question, quiz, request, round. 2 accumulate, amass, bring
require, seek, solicit, sue, supplicate, together, collect, gather, get to-
ask for > a t t r a c t . gether, marshal, mobilize, muster,
pile up, rally, round up. 3 build, con-
asleep adj comatose, inf dead to the struct, erect, fabricate, fit together,
world, dormant, dozing, inf fast off, make, manufacture, piece together,
hibernating, inactive, inattentive, inf produce, put together. Opp d is ma n t l e ,
in the land of nod, si kipping, nap- DISPERSE.
ping, inf off, inf out like a fight, rest-
assembly n assemblage, conclave,
ing, sedated, sleeping, slumbering,
conference, congregation, congress,
snoozing, in/sound off, unconscious,
convention, convocation, council,
under sedation. > n u m b . Opp a w a k e .
gathering, meeting, parliament,
aspect n 1 angle, attribute, charac- rally, synod. > c r o w d .
teristic, circumstance, detail, ele- assent n acceptance, accord, acqui-
ment, facet, feature, quality, side, escence, agreement, approbation,
standpoint, viewpoint. 2 air, appear- approval, compliance, consent, inf
ance, attitude, bearing, countenance, go-ahead, permission, sanction, will-
demeanour, expression, face, look, ingness. Opp r e f u s a l . • v accede,
manner, mien, visage. 3 a southern accept, acquiesce, agree, approve, be
aspect, direction, orientation, out- willing, comply, concede, concur,
look, position, prospect, situation, consent, express agreement, give
view. assent, say "yes’, submit, yield. Opp
asperity n abrasiveness, acerbity, REFUSE.
acidity, acrimony, astringency, bit- assert v affirm, allege, argue, assev-
terness, churlishness, crossness, erate, attest, claim, contend, declare,
harshness, hostility, irascibility, irr- emphasize, insist, maintain, pro-
itability, peevishness, rancour, claim, profess, protest, state, stress,
roughness, severity, sharpness, sour- swear, testify, assert yourself
ness, venom, virulence. Opp mil d n e s s . > INSIST.
aspiration n aim, ambition, crav- assertive adj aggressive, assured,
ing, desire, dream, goal, hope, long- authoritative, bold, infbossy, certain,
assess 22

confident, decided, decisive, definite, in-command, stand-by, subordinate,

dogmatic, domineering, emphatic, supporter.
firm, forceful, insistent, peremptory, associate n > a s s is t a n t , f r ie n d . • v
derog opinionated, positive, derog 1 ally yourself, be friends, combine,
pushy, self-assured, strong, strong- consort, fraternize, in/gang up, inf go
willed, derog stubborn, uncom- around (with), si hang out (with), inf
promising. Opp SUBMISSIVE. hob nob (with), join up, keep com-
assess v appraise, assay (metal), cal- pany, link up, make friends, mingle,
culate, compute, consider, deter- mix, side, socialize. Opp d is s o c ia t e .
mine, estimate, evaluate, fix, gauge, 2 associate snow with winter, bracket
judge, price, reckon, review, in/size together, connect, put together,
up, value, weigh up, work out. relate, in/tie up.
asset n advantage, aid, benefit, bless- association n affiliation, alliance,
ing, boon, inf godsend, good, help, amalgamation, body, brotherhood,
profit, resource, strength, support, cartel, clique, club, coalition, com-
assets capital, effects, estate, funds, bination, company, confederation,
goods, holdings, means, money, pos- consortium, cooperative, corpora-
sessions, property, resources, sav- tion, federation, fellowship, group,
ings, securities, valuables, wealth, inf league, marriage, merger, organiza-
worldly goods. tion, partnership, party, society, syn-
assign v 1 allocate, allot, apportion, dicate, trust, union. > f r ie n d s h ip .
consign, dispense, distribute, give, assorted adj different, differing, old
hand over, share out. 2 assign to a use divers, diverse, heterogeneous,
job. appoint, authorize, delegate, des- manifold, miscellaneous, mixed,
ignate, nominate, ordain, prescribe, motley, multifarious, sundry, varied,
put down, select, specify, stipulate. various.
3 assign my success to luck, accredit,
ascribe, attribute, credit. assortment n agglomeration, array,
choice, collection, diversity, farrago,
assignment n chore, duty, errand, jumble, medley, melange, miscel-
job, mission, obligation, post, pro- lany, inf mishmash, inf mixed bag,
ject, responsibility, task. > w o r k . mixture, pot-pourri, range, selection,
assist v abet, advance, aid, back, variety.
benefit, boost, collaborate, co- assume v 1 believe, deduce, expect,
operate, facilitate, further, help,
guess, inf have a hunch, have no
inf lend a hand, promote, inf rally
doubt, imagine, infer, presume, pre-
round, reinforce, relieve, second,
suppose, suppose, surmise, suspect,
serve, succour, support, sustain,
take for granted, think, understand.
work with. Opp h in d e r .
2 assume duties, accept, embrace, take
assistance n aid, backing, benefit, on, undertake. 3 assume an air of.
collaboration, contribution, co- acquire, adopt, affect, don, dress
operation, encouragement, help, up in, fake, feign, pretend, put on,
patronage, reinforcement, relief, simulate, tiy on, wear.
sponsorship, subsidy, succour, sup-
port. Opp HINDRANCE. assumption n belief, conjecture,
expectation, guess, hypothesis,
assistant n abettor, accessory, premise, premiss, supposition, sur-
accomplice, acolyte, aide, ally, asso- mise, theory.
ciate, auxiliary, backer, collaborator,
colleague, companion, comrade, con- assurance n commitment, guaran-
federate, deputy, helper, helpmate, tee, oath, pledge, promise, vow,
in/henchman, mainstay, derog min- undertaking, word (of honour).
ion, partner, inf right-hand man, inf assure v convince, give a promise,
right-hand woman, second, second- guarantee, make sure, persuade,
 23
attacker
pledge, promise, reassure, swear, (for), pay the penalty, pay the price,
vow. assured t> c o n f id e n t . recompense, redeem yourself,
astonish v amaze, astound, baffle, redress.
bewilder, confound, daze, in/dazzle, atrocious adj abominable, appal-
dumbfound, electrify, inf flabbergast, ling, barbaric, bloodthirsty, brutal,
leave speechless, nonplus, shock, brutish, callous, cruel, diabolical,
stagger, startle, stun, stupefy, sur- dreadful, evil, execrable, fiendish,
prise, take aback, take by surprise, inf frightful, grim, gruesome, hateful,
take your breath away, si wow. heartless, heinous, hideous, hor-
astonishing t> a m a z in g . rendous, horrible, horrific, horrify-
astound v > a s t o n is h . ing, inhuman, merciless, mon-
astray adv adrift, amiss, awry, lost, strous, nauseating, revolting, sad-
off course, inf off the rails, wide of istic, savage, shocking, sickening,
the mark, wrong. terrible, vicious, vile, villainous,
wicked.
astute adj acute, adroit, artful,
canny, clever, crafty, cunning, dis- atrocity n crime, cruelty, enormity,
cerning, inf fly, inf foxy, guileful, offence, outrage. > e v il .
ingenious, intelligent, knowing, attach v 1 add, affix, anchor,
observant, perceptive, perspicacious, append, bind, combine, connect,
sagacious, sharp, shrewd, sly, subtle, couple, fix, join, link, secure, stick,
wily. Opp s t u pid . tie, unite, weld. > f a s t e n . Opp d e t a c h .
asylum n cover, haven, refuge, 2 ascribe, assign, associate, attribute,
retreat, safety, sanctuaiy, shelter. impute, place, relate to. attached
asymmetrical adj awry, crooked, > LOVING.
distorted, irregular, lop-sided, unbal- attack n 1 aggression, ambush,
anced, uneven, inf wonky. Opp s y m - assault, batteiy, blitz, bombardment,
me t r ic a l . broadside, cannonade, charge,
atheist n heathen, pagan, sceptic, counter-attack, foray, incursion,
unbeliever. invasion, offensive, onset, onslaught,
athletic adj acrobatic, active, ener- pre-emptive strike, raid, rush, sortie,
getic, fit, muscular, powerful, robust, strike. 2 verbal attack, abuse, censure,
sinewy, inf sporty, inf strapping, criticism, diatribe, impugnment,
strong, sturdy, vigorous, well-built, invective, outburst, tirade. 3 attack of
wiry. Opp w e a k . coughing, bout, convulsion, fit, out-
break, paroxysm, seizure, spasm,
athletics n field events, track stroke, in/turn. • v 1 ambush, assail,
events. □ cross-country, decathlon, dis- assault, in/beat up, in/blast, bom-
cus, high jump, hurdles, javelin, long bard, charge, counterattack, descend
jump, marathon, pentathlon, pole-vault, on, inf do over, engage, fall on, fight,
relay, running, shot, sprint, triple jump. fly at, invade, jump on, lash out at,
atmosphere n 1 aerospace, air, inflay into, mob, mug, in/pitch into,
ether, heavens, ionosphere, sky, pounce on, raid, rush, set about, set
stratosphere, troposphere. 2 ambi- on, storm, strike at, inf wade into.
ence, aura, character, climate, en- 2 attack verbally, abuse, censure, cri-
vironment, feeling, mood, spirit, ticize, denounce, impugn, inveigh
tone, in/vibes, vibrations. against, libel, malign, round on, slan-
atom n inf bit, crumb, grain, iota, jot, der, snipe at, traduce, vilify. Opp
molecule, morsel, particle, scrap, d e f e n d . 3 attack a task. > b e g in .
speck, spot, trace. attacker n aggressor, assailant,
atone v answer, be punished, com- critic, detractor, enemy, intruder,
pensate, do penance, expiate, make invader, mugger, opponent, perse-
amends, make reparation, make up cutor, raider, slanderer. t> f ig h t e r .
attain 24

attain v accomplish, achieve, attract v 1 allure, appeal to, beguile,

acquire, arrive at, complete, earn, bewitch, bring in, captivate, charm,
fulfil, gain, get, grasp, inf make, decoy, enchant, entice, fascinate, si
obtain, inf pull off, procure, reach, get someone going, interest, in-
realize, secure, touch, win. veigle, lure, magnetize, seduce, tempt,
attempt n assault, bid, effort,
si turn someone on. 2 a magnet
endeavour, inf go, start, try, under- attracts iron, drag, draw, pull, tug at.
3 attract attention, ask for, cause,
taking. • v aim, aspire, do your best,
endeavour, essay, exert yourself, inf court, encourage, generate, incite,
have a crack, inf have a go, make a induce, invite, provoke, seek out, inf
bid, make an assault, make an effort, stir up. Opp REPEL.
put yourself out, seek, inf spare no attractive adj adorable, alluring,
effort, strive, inf sweat blood, tackle, appealing, appetizing, becoming,
try, undertake, venture. bewitching, captivating, inf catchy
attend v 1 appear, be present, go (tune), charming, inf cute, delightful,
(to), frequent, present yourself, inf desirable, disarming, enchanting,
put in an appearance, visit. 2 accom- endearing, engaging, enticing, en-
pany, chaperon, conduct, escort, fol- viable, fascinating, fetching, flat-
low, guard, usher. 3 attend carefully. tering, glamorous, good-looking,
concentrate, follow, hear, heed, gorgeous, handsome, hypnotic, inter-
listen, mark, mind, note, notice, esting, inviting, irresistible, lovable,
observe, pay attention, think, watch, lovely, magnetic, personable, pleas-
attend to assist, care for, help, look ing, prepossessing, pretty, quaint,
after, mind, minister to, nurse, see seductive, sought-after, stunning,
to, take care of, tend, wait on. inf taking, tasteful, tempting, win-
ning, winsome. > b e a u t if u l . Opp r e pu l -
attendant n assistant, escort,
s iv e .
helper, usher. > s e r v a n t .
attention n 1 alertness, awareness, attribute n characteristic, feature,
care, concentration, concern, dili- property, quality, trait. • v accredit,
gence, heed, notice, recognition, ascribe, assign, blame, charge, credit,
thought, vigilance. 2 kind attention. impute, put down, refer, trace
attentiveness, civility, consideration, back.
courtesy, gallantry, good manners, audacious adj adventurous, cour-
kindness, politeness, regard, respect, ageous, daring, fearless, derog fool-
thoughtfulness. hardy, intrepid, derog rash, derog
attentive adj 1 alert, awake, con- reckless, venturesome. > b o l d . Opp
centrating, heedful, intent, obser- TIMID.
vant, watchful. Opp INATTENTIVE. 2 > audacity n boldness, inf cheek,
POLITE. Opp RUDE. effrontery, forwardness, impertin-
attire n accoutrements, apparel, ence, impudence, presumptuous-
array, clothes, clothing, costume, ness, rashness, inf sauce, temerity.
dress, finery, garb, garments, inf > COURAGE.
gear, old use habit, outfit, raiment, audible adj clear, detectable, dis-
wear, old use weeds. • v > d r e s s .
tinct, high, loud, noisy, recognizable.
attitude n 1 air, approach, aspect, Opp in a u d ib l e .
bearing, behaviour, carriage,
demeanour, disposition, frame of audience n assembly, congregation,
mind, manner, mien, mood, posture, crowd, gathering, house, listeners,
stance. 2 political attitudes, approach, meeting, onlookers, TV ratings, spec-
belief, feeling, opinion, orientation, tators, inf turn-out, viewers.
outlook, position, standpoint, auditorium n assembly room, con-
thought, view, viewpoint. cert-hall, hall, theatre.
25 average
augment v add to, amplify, boost, mission, permit, sanction, warrant.
eke out, enlarge, expand, extend, fill 2 charge, command, control, dom-
out, grow, increase, intensify, mag- ination, force, influence, jurisdiction,
nify, make larger, multiply, raise, might, power, prerogative, right, sov-
reinforce, strengthen, supplement, ereignty, supremacy, sway, weight.
Swell. Opp DECREASE. 3 authority on wine, injboffin, injbuff,
augur v bode, forebode, foreshadow, connoisseur, expert, scholar, spe-
forewarn, give an omen, herald, por- cialist. the authorities administra-
tend, predict, promise, prophesy, sig- tion, government, management,
nal. officialdom, inf powers that be.
augury n forecast, forewarning, authorize v accede to, agree to,
omen, portent, prophecy, sign, warn- allow, approve, in/back, commission,
ing. consent to, empower, endorse, en-
auspicious adj favourable, in/hope- title, legalize, license, make official,
ful, lucky, positive, promising, pro- mandate, inf OK, pass, permit, rat-
pitious. Opp OMINOUS. ify, inf rubber-stamp, sanction, sign
the order, sign the warrant, validate,
austere adj 1 abstemious, ascetic, authorized t> o f f ic ia l .
chaste, cold, economical, exacting,
forbidding, formal, frugal, grave, automatic adj 1 conditioned, hab-
hard, harsh, hermit-like, parsimo- itual, impulsive, instinctive, invol-
nious, puritanical, restrained, rigor- untary, natural, reflex, spontan-
ous, self-denying, selfdisciplined, eous, unconscious, unintentional,
serious, severe, sober, spartan, stem, unthinking. 2 automated, compu-
inf strait-laced, strict, thrifty, unpam- terized, electronic, mechanical, pro-
pered. 2 austere dress, modest, plain, grammable, programmed, robotic,
simple, unadorned, unfussy. Opp l u x - self-regulating, unmanned.
u r io u s , ORNATE. autonomous adj free, independent,
authentic adj accurate, actual, bona self-determining, selfgoveming, sov-
fide, certain, dependable, factual, ereign.
genuine, honest, legitimate, original, auxiliary adj additional, ancillary,
real, reliable, true, trustworthy, assisting, inf back-up, emergency,
truthful, undisputed, valid, vera- extra, helping, reserve, secondary,
cious. t> AUTHORITATIVE. Opp FALSE. spare, subordinate, subsidiary, sub-
authenticate v certify, confirm, cor- stitute, supplementary, supporting,
roborate, endorse, substantiate, val- supportive.
idate, verify. available adj accessible, at hand,
author n 1 composer, dramatist, nov- convenient, disposable, free, handy,
elist, playwright, poet, scriptwriter. obtainable, procurable, ready, to
t> w r it e r . 2 architect, begetter, cre- hand, uncommitted, unengaged,
ator, designer, father, founder, ini- unused, usable. Opp in a c c e s s ib l e .
tiator, inventor, maker, mover, avaricious adj acquisitive, covet-
organizer, originator, parent, plan- ous, grasping, greedy, mercenary,
ner, prime mover, producer. miserly.
authoritarian adj autocratic, inf avenge v exact punishment, inf get
bossy, despotic, dictatorial, dogmatic, your own back, repay, requite, take
domineering, strict, tyrannical. revenge.
authoritative adj approved, certi- average adj common, common-
fied, definitive, dependable, official, place, everyday, mediocre, medium,
recognized, sanctioned, scholarly. t> middling, moderate, normal, regu-
AUTHENTIC. lar, inf run of the mill, typical, unex-
authority n 1 approval, authoriza- ceptional, usual. t> ORDINARY. Opp
tion, consent, licence, mandate, per- e x c e pt io n a l . • n mean, mid-point,
averse 26

norm, standard. • v equalize, even sensible, sensitive, versed. Opp ig n o r -

out, normalize, standardize. ant , INSENSITIVE.
averse adj antipathetic, disinclined, awe n admiration, amazement,
hostile, opposed, reluctant, resistant, apprehension, dread, fear, respect,
unwilling. reverence, terror, veneration, won-
aversion n antagonism, antipathy, der.
dislike, distaste, hostility, reluctance, awe-inspiring adj awesome, old use
repugnance, unwillingness. > h a t r e d . awful, breathtaking, dramatic,
avert v change the course of, deflect, grand, imposing, impressive, mag-
draw off, fend off, parry, prevent, nificent, marvellous, overwhelming,
stave off, turn aside, turn away, ward solemn, inf stunning, stupendous,
off. sublime, wondrous. > f r ig h t e n in g ,
avoid v abstain from, be absent from, WONDERFUL. Opp INSIGNIFICANT.
inf beg the question, inf bypass, cir- awful adj 1 > a w e -in s pir in g . 2 awful
cumvent, dodge, inf duck, elude, weather. > b a d .
escape, eschew, evade, fend off, find awkward adj 1 blundering,
a way round, get out of the way of, bungling, clumsy, gauche, gawky,
inf get.round, infgive a wide berth to, inf ham-fisted, inelegant, inept, in-
help (can’t help it), ignore, keep away expert, maladroit, uncoordinated,
from, keep clear of, refrain from, run ungainly, ungraceful, unskilful,
away from, shirk, shun, side-step, wooden. 2 an awkward load, bulky,
skirt round, inf skive off, steer clear cumbersome, inconvenient, unman-
of. Opp SEEK. ageable, unwieldy. 3 an awkward prob-
await v be ready for, expect, hope lem. annoying, difficult, perplexing,
for, lie in wait for, look out for, wait thorny, inf ticklish, troublesome, try-
for. ing, vexatious, vexing. 4 an awkward
awake adj 1 aware, conscious, silence, embarrassing, touchy, tricky,
insomniac, open-eyed, restless, sleep- uncomfortable, uneasy. 5 awkward
less, inf tossing and turning, wakeful, children, inf bloodyminded, si bolshie,
wide awake. 2 > a l e r t . Opp a s l e e p. defiant, disobedient, disobliging,
awaken v alert, animate, arouse, exasperating, intractable, misbehav-
awake, call, excite, kindle, revive, ing, naughty, obstinate, perverse, inf
rouse, stimulate, stir up, wake, prickly, rebellious, refractory, rude,
waken. stubborn, touchy, uncooperative,
undisciplined, unruly, wayward. Opp
award n badge, cap, cup, decoration, COOPERATIVE, EASY, NEAT.
endowment, grant, medal, prize,
reward, scholarship, trophy. • v awning n canopy, flysheet, screen,
accord, allot, assign, bestow, confer, shade, shelter, tarpaulin.
decorate with, endow, give, grant, axe n battleaxe, chopper, cleaver,
hand over, present. hatchet, tomahawk. • v cancel, cut,
aware adj acquainted, alive (to), discharge, discontinue, dismiss, elim-
appreciative, attentive, cognizant, inate, get rid of, inf give the chop
conscious, conversant, familiar, to, make redundant, rationalize,
heedful, informed, knowledgeable, remove, sack, terminate, withdraw.
mindful, observant, responsive, axle n rod, shaft, spindle.
baby n babe, child, infant, newborn, bad adj [Bad describes anything we
toddler. don’t like. Possible synonyms are
babyish adj childish, immature, almost limitless.] 1 bad men, deeds.
infantile, juvenile, puerile, simple. abhorrent, base, beastly, blamewor-
Opp MATURE. thy, corrupt, criminal, cruel, dan-
gerous, delinquent, deplorable,
back adj dorsal, end, hind, hinder,
depraved, detestable, evil, guilty,
hindmost, last, rear, rearmost. • n
immoral, infamous, malevolent,
1 end, hindquarters, posterior, rear,
malicious, malignant, mean, mis-
stem, tail, tail-end. 2 reverse, verso. chievous, nasty, naughty, offensive,
Opp f r o n t . • v 1 back away, back off, regrettable, reprehensible, rotten,
back-pedal, backtrack, inf beat a shameful, sinful, unworthy, vicious,
retreat, give way, go backwards, vile, villainous, wicked, wrong. 2 a
move back, recede, recoil, retire, bad accident, appalling, awful, calam-
retreat, reverse. Opp a d v a n c e . 21> s u p - itous, dire, disastrous, distressing,
po r t . back down t> r e t r e a t , back out dreadful, frightful, ghastly, grave,
t> WITHDRAW. hair-raising, hideous, horrible,
backer n advocate, inf angel, bene- painful, serious, severe, shocking,
factor, patron, promoter, sponsor, terrible, unfortunate, unpleasant,
supporter. violent. 3 bad driving, work, abom-
background n 1 circumstances, inable, abysmal, appalling, atrocious,
context, histoiy, inf lead-up, setting, awful, cheap, inf chronic, defective,
surroundings. 2 breeding, culture, deficient, diabolical, disgraceful,
education, experience, grounding, dreadful, egregious, execrable, faulty,
milieu, tradition, training, upbring- feeble, inf grotty, hopeless, imper-
ing. fect, inadequate, incompetent, incor-
rect, ineffective, inefficient, inferior,
backing n 1 aid, approval, assist-
inf lousy, pitiful, poor, inf ropy,
ance, encouragement, endorsement, shoddy, inf sorry, substandard,
funding, grant, help, investment, unsound, unsatisfactory, useless,
loan, patronage, sponsorship, sub- weak, worthless. 4 bad conditions.
sidy, support. 2 musical backing. adverse, deleterious, detrimental,
accompaniment, orchestration, scor- discouraging, inf frightful, harmful,
ing. harsh, hostile, inappropriate, inaus-
backward adj 1 regressive, retreat- picious, prejudicial, uncongenial,
ing, retrograde, retrogressive, re- unfortunate, unhelpful, unpropi-
verse. 2 afraid, bashful, coy, diffident, tious. 5 bad smell, decayed, decom-
hesitant, inhibited, modest, reluc- posing, diseased, foul, loathsome,
tant, reserved, reticent, self-effacing, mildewed, mouldy, nauseating, nox-
shy, timid, unassertive, unforthcom- ious, objectionable, obnoxious, odi-
ing. 3 a backward pupil, disadvan- ous, offensive, polluted, putrid,
taged, handicapped, immature, rancid, repellent, repulsive, revolt-
late-starting, retarded, slow, subnor- ing, rotten, sickening, smelly, sour,
mal, underdeveloped, undeveloped. spoiled, tainted, vile. 61 feel bad. > il l .
Opp f o r w a r d . Opp GOOD.
badge 28

badge n chevron, crest, device, bald adj 1 baldheaded, bare, hairless,

emblem, insignia, logo, mark, medal, smooth, thin on top. 2 bald truth.
sign, symbol, token. direct, forthright, plain, simple,
stark, straightforward, unadorned,
bad-tempered adj acrimonious,
uncompromising.
angry, bilious, cantankerous, churl-
ish, crabbed, cross, inf crotchety, dis- bale n bunch, bundle, pack, package,
gruntled, disobliging, dyspeptic, truss. • v bale out eject, escape,
fretful, gruff, grumbling, grumpy, jump out, parachute down.
hostile, hot-tempered, ill-humoured, ball n 1 drop, globe, globule, orb,
ill-tempered, irascible, irritable, shot, sphere, spheroid. 2 dance,
malevolent, malign, moody, morose, disco, party, social.
peevish, petulant, quarrelsome,
balloon n airship, dirigible, hot-air
querulous, rude, scowling, short-
balloon. • v > b il l o w .
tempered, shrewish, snappy, inf
stroppy, sulky, sullen, testy, truc- ballot n election, plebiscite, poll, ref-
ulent, unfriendly, unsympathetic. erendum, vote.
Opp GOOD-TEMPERED. ban n boycott, embargo, interdiction,
baffle v inf bamboozle, bemuse, moratorium, prohibition, proscrip-
bewilder, confound, confuse, defeat, tion, taboo, veto. • v banish, bar,
inf floor, inf flummox, foil, frustrate, debar, disallow, exclude, forbid,
mystify, perplex, puzzle, inf stump, interdict, make illegal, ostracize, out-
thwart, baffling > in e x pl ic a b l e . law, prevent, prohibit, proscribe, put
a ban on, restrict, stop, suppress,
bag n basket, carrier, carrier-bag, veto. Opp PERMIT.
case, handbag, haversack, holdall,
reticule, rucksack, sack, satchel, banal adj boring, cliched, cliche-
shopping-bag, shoulder-bag. > b a g - ridden, commonplace, inf corny,
g a g e . • v capture, catch, ensnare, dull, hackneyed, humdrum, obvious,
snare. inf old hat, ordinary, over-used, ped-
estrian, platitudinous, predictable,
baggage n accoutrements, bags, stereotyped, trite, unimaginative,
belongings, inf gear, impedimenta, uninteresting, unoriginal, vapid. Opp
paraphernalia. > l u g g a g e . INTERESTING.
bait n allurement, attraction, bribe, band n 1 belt, border, fillet, hoop,
carrot, decoy, enticement, induce- line, loop, ribbon, ring, strip, stripe,
ment, lure, temptation. • v annoy, swathe. 2 association, body, clique,
goad, harass, hound, jeer at, inf club, company, crew, flock, gang,
needle, persecute, pester, provoke, herd, horde, party, society, troop. >
tease, torment. g r o u p . 3 [music] ensemble, group,
balance n 1 scales, weighing- orchestra.
machine. 2 equilibrium, equipoise, bandage n dressing, gauze, lint,
poise, stability, steadiness. 3 corres- plaster.
pondence, equality, equivalence, bandit n brigand, buccaneer, des-
evenness, parity, symmetry. 4 spend a perado, footpad, gangster, gunman,
bit & save the balance, difference, highwayman, hijacker, marauder,
excess, remainder, residue, rest, sur- outlaw, pirate, robber, thief.
plus. • v 1 cancel out, compensate
for, counteract, counterbalance, bandy adj bandy-legged, bowed, bow-
counterpoise, equalize, even up, legged. • v bandy words, exchange, ■
level, make steady, match, neutral- interchange, pass, swap, throw, toss.
ize, offset, parallel, stabilize, steady. > ARGUE.
2 keep balanced, keep in equilib- bang n 1 blow, inf box, bump, colli-
rium, poise, steady, support, bal- sion, cuff, knock, punch, slam,
anced > EVEN, IMPARTIAL, STABLE. smack, stroke, thump, wallop,
29
barrage
whack. t> h it . 2 blast, boom, clap, barbarian adj t> b a r b a r ic . • n boor,
crash, explosion, pop, report, thud, churl, heathen, hun, ignoramus,
thump. t> s o u n d . lout, pagan, philistine, savage, van-
banish v 1 deport, drive out, eject, dal, si yob.
evict, excommunicate, exile, expat- barbaric adj barbarous, brutal,
riate, expel, ostracize, oust, outlaw, brutish, crude, inhuman, primitive,
rusticate, send away, ship away, rough, savage, uncivil, uncivilized,
transport. 2 ban, bar, inf black, uncultivated, wild. t> c r u e l . Opp
debar, eliminate, exclude, forbid, get CIVILIZED.
rid of, make illegal, prohibit, pro- bare adj 1 bald, denuded, exposed,
scribe, put an embargo on, remove, naked, nude, stark-naked, stripped,
restrict, stop, suppress, veto. unclad, unclothed, uncovered,
bank n 1 camber, declivity, dike, undressed. 2 bare moor, barren, bleak,
earthwork, embankment, gradient, desolate, featureless, open, treeless,
incline, mound, ramp, rampart, unwooded, windswept. 3 bare trees.
ridge, rise, slope, tilt. 2 river bank. defoliated, leafless, shorn. 4 a bare
brink, edge, margin, shore, side. room, austere, empty, plain, simple,
3 bank of controls, array, collection, unadorned, undecorated, unfur-
display, file, group, line, panel, rank, nished, vacant. 5 a bare wall, blank,
row, series. • v 1 cant, heel, incline, clean, unmarked. 6 bare facts, direct,
lean, fist, pitch, slant, slope, tilt, tip. explicit, hard, honest, literal, open,
2 bank money, deposit, save. plain, straightforward, unconcealed,
bankrupt adj inf broke, failed, si
undisguised, unembellished. 7 the
gone bust, gone into liquida-tion, bare minimum, basic, essential, just
insolvent, ruined, spent up, wound adequate, just sufficient, minimal,
up. t> POOR. Opp SOLVENT. minimum. • v betray, bring to light,
disclose, expose, lay bare, make
banner n banderole, colours, ensign, known, publish, reveal, show,
flag, pennant, pennon, standard, uncover, undress, unmask, unveil.
streamer.
bargain n 1 agreement, arrange-
banquet n inf binge, si blow-out, din- ment, compact, contract, covenant,
ner, feast, repast, inf spread. t> me a l . deal, negotiation, pact, pledge,
banter n badinage, chaffing, joking, promise, settlement, transaction,
persiflage, pleasantry, railleiy, repar- treaty, understanding. 2 bargain in
tee, ribbing, ridicule, teasing, word- the sales, inf give-away, good buy,
play. good deal, loss-leader, reduced item,
inf snip, special offer. • v argue,
bar n 1 beam, girder, pole, rail, rail-
barter, discuss terms, do a deal,
ing, rod, shaft, stake, stick, strut. haggle, negotiate, bargain for t> e x pe c t .
2 barricade, barrier, check, deterrent,
hindrance, impediment, obstacle, bark v 1 growl, yap. 2 bark your shin.
obstruction. 3 band, belt, line, streak, abrade, chafe, graze, rub, score,
strip, stripe. 4 bar of soap, block, cake, scrape, scratch.
chunk, hunk, ingot, lump, nugget, barmaid,
piece, slab, wedge. 5 drink in a bar. barman ns attendant, server, stew-
cafe, canteen, counter, inn, lounge, ard, stewardess, waiter, waitress.
pub, public house, saloon, taproom,
tavern, wine bar. • v 1 ban, banish, barracks plur n accommodation, bil-
debar, exclude, forbid to enter, keep let, camp, garrison, lodging, quar-
out, ostracize, outlaw, prevent from ters.
entering, prohibit, proscribe. 2 bar barrage n 1 t> b a r r ie r . 2 barrage of
the way. arrest, block, check, deter, gunfire, assault, attack, battery, bom-
halt, hinder, impede, obstruct, pre- bardment, cannonade, fusillade, gun-
vent, stop, thwart. fire, onslaught, salvo, storm, volley.
barrel 30

barrel n butt, cask, churn, cistern, main, necessary, primary, principal,

drum, hogshead, keg, tank, tub, tun, radical, underlying, vital. Opp u n im -
water-butt. po r t a n t .
barren adj 1 arid, bare, desert, des- basin n bath, bowl, container, dish,
olate, dried-up, dry, empty, infertile, pool, sink, stoup.
lifeless, non-productive, treeless, basis n base, core, footing, founda-
uncultivated, unproductive, unprof- tion, ground, infrastructure, pre-
itable, untilled, useless, waste. mise, principle, starting-point, sup-
2 childless, fruitless, infertile, sterile, port, underpinning.
sterilized, unfruitful. Opp f e r t il e .
bask v enjoy, feel pleasure, glory, lie,
barricade n > b a r r ie r . • v bar, block lounge, luxuriate, relax, sunbathe,
off, defend, obstruct. wallow.
barrier n 1 bar, barrage, barricade, basket n bag, hamper, pannier, pun-
blockade, boom, bulwark, dam, net, skip, trug.
earthwork, embankment, fence,
bastard n illegitimate child, old use
fortification, frontier, hurdle, obs-
love-child, natural child.
tacle, obstruction, palisade, railing,
rampart, stockade, wall. 2 barrier to bat n club, racket, racquet.
progress, check, drawback, handicap, bath n douche, jacuzzi, pool, sauna,
hindrance, impediment, limitation, shower, inf soak, inf tub, wash.
restriction, stumbling-block. bathe v 1 clean, cleanse, immerse,
barter v bargain, deal, exchange, moisten, rinse, soak, steep, swill,
negotiate, swap, trade, traffic. wash'. 2 bathe in the sea. go swimming,
base adj contemptible, cowardly, paddle, plunge, splash about, swim,
degrading, depraved, despicable, inf take a dip.
detestable, dishonourable, evil, ig- bathos n anticlimax, inf come-down,
noble, immoral, inferior, low, mean, disappointment, inf let-down. Opp c l i -
scandalous, selfish, shabby, shame- ma x .
ful, sordid, undignified, unworthy, baton n cane, club, cudgel, rod, staff,
vulgar, vile. > w ic k e d . • n 1 basis, stick, truncheon.
bed, bedrock, bottom, core, essen-
tials, foot, footing, foundation, fun- batter v beat, bludgeon, cudgel, keep
damentals, groundwork, infra- hitting, pound. t> h it .
structure, pedestal, plinth, rest, root, battery n 1 artillery-unit, emplace-
stand, substructure, support, un- ment. 2 electric battery, accumulator,
derpinning. 2 camp, centre, depot, cell. 3 assault and battery, assault,
headquarters, post, starting-point, attack, inf beating-up, blows, mug-
station. • v build, construct, estab- ging, onslaught, thrashing, violence,
lish, found, ground, locate, position, battle n action, air-raid, Armaged-
post, secure, set up, station. don, attack, blitz, brush, campaign,
basement n cellar, crypt, vault, clash, combat, conflict, confronta-
bashful adj abashed, backward, tion, contest, crusade, inf dogfight,
blushing, coy, demure, diffident, encounter, engagement, fight, fray,
embarrassed, faint-hearted, inhib- hostilities, offensive, pitched battle,
ited, meek, modest, nervous, pre-emptive strike, quarrel, inf shoot-
reserved, reticent, retiring, self-con- out, siege, skirmish, strife, struggle,
scious, self-effacing, shamefaced, war, warfare. • v t> f ig h t .
sheepish, shy, timid, timorous, battlefield n arena, battleground,
uneasy, unforthcoming. Opp a s s e r t iv e . theatre of war.
basic adj central, chief, crucial, ele- bawdy adj broad, earthy, erotic,
mentary, essential, foremost, funda- lusty, inf naughty, racy, inf raunchy,
mental, important, intrinsic, key, ribald, inf sexy, inf spicy, [derog syn-
31 beautiful
onyms] inf blue, coarse, dirty, ach, suffer, sustain, tolerate, un-
immoral, improper, indecent, dergo. 5 bear children, fruit, breed, old
indecorous, indelicate, lascivious, use bring forth, develop, engender,
lecherous, lewd, licentious, obscene, generate, give birth to, produce,
pornographic, prurient, risque, rude, spawn, yield, bear out c> c o n f ir m .
salacious, smutty, suggestive, titil- bear up > s u r v iv e , bear witness c>
lating, vulgar. Opp pr o pe r . TESTIFY.
bawl v ciy, roar, shout, thunder, bearable adj acceptable, endurable,
wail, yell, yelp. supportable, survivable, sustainable,
bay n 1 bight, cove, creek, estuary, tolerable.
fjord, gulf, harbour, indentation, bearing n 1 air, appearance, aspect,
inlet, ria, sound. 2 alcove, booth, attitude, behaviour, carriage, de-
compartment, niche, nook, opening, meanour, deportment, look, manner,
recess. mien, poise, posture, presence,
bazaar n auction, boot-sale, bring- stance, style. 2 evidence had no bearing.
and-buy, fair, fete, jumble sale, mar- applicability, application, connec-
ket, sale. tion, import, pertinence, reference,
relation, relationship, relevance, sig-
be v 1 be alive, breathe, endure, exist,
live. 2 be here all day. continue, dwell, nificance. bearings aim, course,
direction, line, location, orientation,
inhabit, keep going, last, occupy a
path, position, road, sense of direc-
position, persist, remain, stay, sur-
tion, tack, track, way, whereabouts.
vive. 3 the next event will be tomorrow.
arise, befall, come about, happen, beast n brute, creature, monster,
occur, take place. 4 want to be a writer, savage. c> a n ima l .
become, develop into. beastly adj abominable, barbaric,
beach n bank, coast, coastline, fore- bestial, brutal, cruel, savage. i> v il e .
shore, littoral, sand, sands, seashore, beat n i accent, pulse, rhythm,
seaside, shore, poet strand. stress, tempo, throb. 2 policeman’s
beacon n bonfire, fire, flare, fight, beat, course, itinerary, journey, path,
lighthouse, pharos, signal. rounds, route, way. • v 1 batter,
bludgeon, buffet, cane, clout, cudgel,
bead n blob, drip, drop, droplet, glob-
flail, flog, hammer, knock about,
ule, jewel, pearl.
lash, inflay into, manhandle, pound,
beaker n cup, glass, goblet, jar, mug, punch, scourge, strike, inf tan, thrash,
tankard, tumbler. thump, trounce, inf wallop, whack,
beam n 1 bar, board, boom, brace, whip. c> h it . 2 beat eggs, agitate,
girder, joist, plank, post, rafter, spar, blend, froth up, knead, mix, pound,
stanchion, stud, support, timber. stir, whip, whisk. 3 heart was beating.
2 beam of light, gleam, pencil, ray, flutter, palpitate, pound, pulsate,
shaft, stream. • v 1 aim, broadcast, race, throb, thump. 4 beat an oppon-
direct, emit, radiate, send out, shine, ent. best, conquer, crush, defeat,
transmit. 2 beam happily, grin, laugh, excel, get the better of, inf lick, mas-
look radiant, radiate happiness, ter, outclass, outdistance, outdo, out-
smile. pace, outrun, outwit, overcome,
bear v 1 cany, hold, prop up, shoul- overpower, overthrow, overwhelm,
der, support, sustain, take. 2 bear an rout, subdue, surpass, inf thrash,
inscription, display, exhibit, have, pos- trounce, vanquish, win against,
sess, show. 3 bear gifts, bring, carry, worst, beat up c> a t t a c k .
convey, deliver, fetch, move, take, beautiful adj admirable, aesthetic,
transfer, transport. 4 bear pain, abide, alluring, appealing, artistic, attract-
accept, brook, cope with, endure, live ive, becoming, bewitching, brilliant,
with, permit, inf put up with, recon- captivating, charming, old use
cile yourself to, inf stand, inf stom- comely, dainty, decorative, delight-
beautify 32

ful, elegant, enjoyable, exquisite, old beer n ale, bitter, lager, mild, porter,
use fair, fascinating, fetching, fine, stout.
good-looking, glamorous, glorious, befall v be the outcome, old use
gorgeous, graceful, handsome, irres- betide, chance, come about, inf crop
istible, lovely, magnificent, neat, up, eventuate, happen, occur, take
picturesque, pleasing, pretty, • place, inf transpire,
pulchritudinous, quaint, radiant,
before adv already, earlier, in
ravishing, scenic, seductive, sen-
advance, previously, sooner.
suous, sexy, spectacular, splendid,
stunning, superb, tasteful, tempting. befriend v inf chat up, inf gang up
Opp UGLY. with, get to know, make friends
with, make the acquaintance of, inf
beautify v adorn, bedeck, deck, dec-
pal up with.
orate, embellish, garnish, make
beautiful, ornament, prettify, derog beg v 1 inf cadge, scrounge, solicit,
tart up, inf titivate. Opp d is f ig u r e . sponge. 2 beg a favour, ask, beseech,
cajole, crave, entreat, implore,
beauty n allure, appeal, attractive-
importune, petition, plead, pray,
ness, charm, elegance, fascination,
request, supplicate, wheedle.
glamour, glory, grace, handsome-
ness",' loveliness, magnificence, pic- beget v breed, bring about, cause,
ture's queness, prettiness, pulch- create, engender, father, generate,
ritude, radiance, splendour. give rise to, procreate, produce, prop-
agate, result in, sire, spawn.
becalmed adj helpless, idle, motion-
less', still, unmoving. beggar n cadger, destitute person,
down-and-out, homeless person,
beckon v gesture, motion, signal,
mendicant, pauper, ragamuffin,
summon, wave. scrounger, sponger, tramp, vagrant.
become v 1 be transformed into, > POOR.
change into, develop into, grow into, begin v 1 activate, approach, attack,
mature into, metamorphose into, be first, broach, commence, conceive,
turn into. 2 Red becomes you. be appro- create, embark on, enter into, found,
priate to, be becoming to, befit, inf get cracking, inf get going, in-
enhance, fit, flatter, harmonize with, augurate, initiate, inspire, instigate,
set off, suit, becoming > a t t r a c t iv e , introduce, kindle, launch, lay the
SUITABLE. foundations, lead off, move into,
bed n 1 resting-place. □ air-bed, berth, move off, open, originate, pioneer,
bunk, cot, couch, couchette, cradle, crib, precipitate, provoke, set about, set
divan, four-poster, hammock, pallet, pal- in motion, set off, set out, set up, inf
liasse, truckle bed, waterbed. 2 bed of spark off, start, inf take steps, take
concrete, base, foundation, ground- the initiative, take up, touch off, trig-
work, layer, substratum. 3 river bed. ger off, undertake. 2 Spring begins
bottom, channel, course, water- gradually, appear, arise, break out,
course. 4 flower bed. border, garden, come into existence, crop up,
patch, plot. emerge, get going, happen, materi-
bedclothes plur n bedding, bed alize, originate, spring up. Opp e n d .
linen. □ bedspread, blanket, bolster, con- beginner n 1 creator, founder, ini-
tinental quilt, counterpane, coverlet, tiator, inspiration, instigator, ori-
duvet, eiderdown, electric-blanket, mat- ginator, pioneer. 2 only a beginner.
tress, pillow, pillowcase, pillowslip, quilt, apprentice, fresher, greenhorn, inex-
sheet, sleeping-bag. perienced person, initiate, learner,
bedraggled adj dirty, dishevelled, novice, recruit, starter, tiro, trainee.
drenched, messy, muddy, scruffy, beginning n 1 birth, commence-
sodden, soiled, stained, unkempt, ment, conception, creation, dawn,
untidy, wet, wringing. Opp s ma r t . embryo, emergence, establishment.
33 bend
foundation, genesis, germ, inaug- tulate, presume, speculate, suppose,
uration, inception, initiation, insti- take it for granted, think, make
gation, introduction, launch, onset, believe > ima g in e .
opening, origin, outset, point of believer n adherent, devotee, dis-
departure, rise, source, start, start- ciple, fanatic, follower, proselyte,
ing-point, threshold. 2 beginning of a supporter, upholder, zealot. Opp
book, preface, prelude, prologue. Opp ATHEIST.
END.
belittle v be unimpressed by, criti-
begrudge v be bitter about, covet, cize, decry, denigrate, deprecate,
envy, grudge, mind, object to, resent, depreciate, detract from, disparage,
behave v 1 acquit yourself, act, inf minimize, inf play down, slight,
carry on, comport yourself, conduct speak slightingly of, underrate,
yourself, function, operate, perform, undervalue. Opp e x a g g e r a t e , f l a t t e r ,
react, respond, run, work. 2 told to PRAISE.
behave, act properly, be good, be on bell n alarm, carillon, chime, knell,
best behaviour. peal, signal. > r in g .
behaviour n actions, attitude, bear- belligerent adj aggressive, antag-
ing, comportment, conduct, cour- onistic, argumentative, bellicose,
tesy, dealings, demeanour, de- bullying, combative, contentious,
portment, manners, performance, defiant, disputatious, fierce, hawk-
reaction, response, ways. ish, hostile, jingoistic, martial, mil-
behead v decapitate, guillotine. itant, militaristic, provocative,
behold v desciy, discern, espy, look pugnacious, quarrelsome, violent,
at, note, notice, see, set eyes on, warlike, warmongering, warring. >
view. UNFRIENDLY. Opp PEACEABLE.
being n 1 actuality, essence, exist- belong v 1 be owned (by), go (with),
ence, life, living, reality, solidity, sub- pertain (to), relate (to). 2 be at home,
stance. 2 animal, creature, feel welcome, have a place. 3 belong to
individual, person, spirit, soul. a club, be affiliated with, be a mem-
ber of, be connected with, inf be in
belated adj behindhand, delayed,
with.
last-minute, late, overdue, post-
humous, tardy, unpunctual. belongings plur n chattels, effects,
inf gear, goods, impedimenta, pos-
belch v 1 infburp, emit wind. 2 belch
sessions, property, things.
smoke, discharge, emit, erupt, fume,
gush, send out, smoke, spew out, belt n 1 band, circle, loop. 2 belt round
vomit. the waist, cincture, cummerbund,
girdle, girth, sash, strap, waistband,
belief n 1 acceptance, assent, assur-
old use zone. 3 green belt, area, dis-
ance, certainty, confidence, credence, trict, line, stretch, strip, swathe,
reliance, security, sureness, trust.
tract, zone.
2 religious belief, attitude, conviction,
creed, doctrine, dogma, ethos, faith, bemuse v befuddle, bewilder, con-
feeling, ideology, morality, notion, fuse, mix up, muddle, perplex,
opinion, persuasion, principles, reli- puzzle, stupefy.
gion, standards, tenets, theories, bench n 1 form, pew, seat, settle.
views. Opp SCEPTICISM. 2 counter, table, work-bench, work-
believe v 1 accept, be certain of, table. 3 magistrate’s bench, court,
count on, credit, depend on, endorse, courtroom, judge, magistrate, tri-
have faith in, reckon on, rely on, sub- bunal.
scribe to, inf swallow, swear by, trust. bend n angle, arc, bow, corner,
Opp d is b e l ie v e . 2 assume, consider, inf crank, crook, curvature, curve, flex-
dare say, feel, gather, guess, hold, ure, loop, turn, turning, twist,
imagine, judge, know, maintain, pos- zigzag. • v 1 arch, be flexible, bow,
benefactor 34

buckle, coil, contort, crook, curl, bequeath v endow, hand down,

curve, deflect, distort, divert, flex, leave, make over, pass on, settle, will.
fold, inf give, loop, mould, refract, bequest n endowment, gift, inher-
shape, turn, twist, warp, wind, yield. itance, legacy, settlement.
2 bow, crouch, curtsy, duck, genu-
bereavement n death, loss.
flect, kneel, lean, stoop.
bereft adj deprived, destitute, devoid,
benefactor n inf angel, backer, derog
lacking, robbed, wanting.
do-gooder, donor, inf faiiy god-
mother, patron, philanthropist, pro- berserk adj inf beside yourself,
moter, sponsor, supporter, well- crazed, crazy, demented, deranged,
wisher. frantic, frenetic, frenzied, furious,
infuriated, insane, mad, maniacal,
beneficial adj advantageous, rabid, violent, wild. Opp c a l m , go
benign, constructive, favourable, berserk > r a g e , r a mpa g e .
fruitful, good, health-giving, healthy,
helpful, improving, nourishing, berth n 1 bed, bunk, hammock.
nutritious, positive, productive, prof- 2 berth for ships, anchorage, dock,
itable, rewarding, salubrious, salut- harbour, haven, landing-stage, moor-
aiy, ^supportive, useful, valuable, ings, pier, port, quay, slipway, wharf.
wholesome. Opp h a r mf u l . • v anchor, dock, drop anchor, land,
moor, tie up. give a wide berth to
beneficiary n heir, heiress, inher- AVOID.
itor, legatee, recipient, successor (to
title). beseech v ask, beg, entreat,
implore, importune, plead, sup-
benefit n 1 advantage, asset, bless- plicate.
ing, boon, convenience, gain, good
thing, help, privilege, prize, profit, besiege v beleaguer, beset, block-
service, use. Opp d is a d v a n t a g e . 2 unem- ade, cut off, encircle, encompass,
ployment benefit, aid, allowance, as- hem in, isolate, pester, plague, siege,
sistance, inf dole, inf hand-out, surround.
grant, payment, social security, wel- best adj choicest, excellent, finest,
fare. • v advance, advantage, aid, first-class, foremost, incomparable,
assist, better, boost, do good to, en- leading, matchless, optimum, out-
hance, further, help, improve, profit, standing, pre-eminent, superlative,
promote, serve. supreme, top, unequalled, unri-
benevolent adj altruistic, benefi- valled, unsurpassed.
cent, benign, caring, charitable, com- bestial adj animal, beast-like,
passionate, considerate, friendly, beastly, brutal, brutish, inhuman,
generous, helpful, humane, human- subhuman. > s a v a g e .
itarian, kind-hearted, kindly, liberal, bestow v award, confer, donate,
magnanimous, merciful, philan- give, grant, present.
thropic, supportive, sympathetic,
bet n inf flutter, gamble, inf punt,
unselfish, warm-hearted. > k in d . Opp
speculation, stake, wager. • v bid,
UNKIND.
chance, do the pools, enter a lotteiy,
benign adj gentle, harmless, kind. > gamble, inf have a flutter, hazard, lay
BENEFICIAL, BENEVOLENT. bets, inf punt, risk, speculate, stake,
bent adj 1 angled, arched, bowed, venture, wager.
buckled, coiled, contorted, crooked, betray v 1 be a Judas to, be a traitor
curved, distorted, folded, hunched, to, be false to, cheat, conspire
looped, twisted, warped. 2 [in/] a bent against, deceive, denounce, desert,
dealer, corrupt, criminal, dishonest, double-cross, give away, in/grass on,
illegal, immoral, untrustworthy, incriminate, inform against, inform
wicked. Opp h o n e s t , s t r a ig h t . • n > on, jilt, let down, inf rat on, report,
APTITUDE, BIAS. inf sell down the river, sell out, inf
35 bind
shop, inf tell tales about, inf turn big adj 1 above average, inf almighty,
Queen’s evidence on. 2 betray secrets. ample, astronomical, bold, broad,
disclose, divulge, expose, give away, Brobdingnagian, bulky, burly, capa-
indicate, let out, let slip, manifest, cious, colossal, commodious, consid-
reveal, show, tell. erable, elephantine, enormous,
better adj 1 preferable, recom- extensive, fat, formidable, gargan-
mended, superior. 2 convalescent, tuan, generous, giant, gigantic,
cured, fitter, healed, healthier, grand, great, gross, heavy, hefty,
improved, inf on the mend, pro- high, huge, inf hulking, husky,
gressing, recovered, recovering, immeasurable, immense, impressive,
restored. • v > impr o v e , s u r pa s s . inf jumbo, inf king-sized, large, lar-
gish, lofty, long, mammoth, massive,
beware v avoid, be alert, be careful, mighty, monstrous, monumental,
be cautious, be on your guard, guard mountainous, overgrown, oversized,
(against), heed, keep clear (of), look prodigious, roomy, sizeable, spa-
out, mind, shun, steer away (from), cious, stupendous, substantial,
take care, take heed, take precau- swingeing (increase), tall, inf terrific,
tions, watch out, inf watch your step, thick, inf thumping, tidy (sum),
bewilder v baffle, inf bam boozle, titanic, towering, inf tremendous,
bemuse, confound, confuse, daze, vast, voluminous, weighty, inf whack-
disconcert, disorientate, distract, ing, inf whopping, wide. 2 a big deci-
floor, inf flummox, mislead, muddle, sion. grave, important, influential,
mystify, perplex, puzzle, stump. leading, main, major, momentous,
notable, powerful, prime, principal,
bewitch v captivate, cast a spell on, prominent, serious, significant. 3 a
charm, enchant, enrapture, fascin- big number. > in f in it e . 4 a big name. >
ate, spellbind. f a m o u s . 5 a big noise. > l o u d . Opp
bias n 1 aptitude, bent, inclination, SMALL.
leaning, liking, partiality, penchant,
predilection, predisposition, prefer- bigot n chauvinist, fanatic, preju-
ence, proclivity, proneness, propen- diced person, racist, sexist, zealot.
sity, tendency. 2 [derog] bigotry, bigoted adj intolerant, one-sided,
chauvinism, favouritism, imbalance, partial, prejudiced. > b ia s e d .
injustice, nepotism, one-sidedness,
partiality, partisanship, prejudice, bill n 1 account, invoice, receipt,
racism, sexism, unfairness. • v > statement, tally. 2 advertisement,
INFLUENCE. broadsheet, bulletin, circular, hand-
bill, handout, leaflet, notice, placard,
biased adj bigoted, blinkered, chau-
poster, sheet. 3 a Parliamentary bill.
vinistic, distorted, emotive, influ- draft law, proposed law. 4 a bird’s bill.
enced, interested, jaundiced, loaded,
beak, mandible.
one-sided, partial, partisan, preju-
diced, racist, sexist, slanted, tenden- billow v balloon, belly, bulge, fill out,
tious, unfair, unjust, warped. Opp heave, puff out, rise, roll, surge,
UNBIASED. swell, undulate.
bicycle n inf bike, cycle, penny-far- bind v 1 attach, clamp, combine, con-
thing, inf push-bike, racer, tandem, nect, fuse, hitch, hold together, join,
inf two-wheeler. lash, link, rope, secure, strap, tie,
bid n 1 offer, price, proposal, pro- truss, unify, unite, weld. > f a s t e n .
position, tender. 2 a bid to win. 2 bind a wound, bandage, cover, dress,
attempt, inf crack, effort, endeavour, encase, swathe, wrap. 3 bound to obey.
inf go, try, venture. • v 1 make an compel, constrain, force, necessitate,
offer, offer, proffer, propose, tender. oblige, require, binding > c o m -
2 > COMMAND. pu l s o r y , FORMAL.
 36
biography
biography n autobiography, life, life- a bit. flash, instant, inf jiffy, minute,
story, memoirs, recollections. > w r it - moment, second, inf tick, time,
in g . while.
bird n in/birdie, chick, cock, joc feath- bite n 1 nip, pinch, sting. 2 a bite to
ered friend, fledgling, fowl, hen, eat. morsel, mouthful, nibble, snack,
nestling, a gamebird, plur poultry, taste. > b it . • v 1 champ, chew,
seabird, wader, waterfowl, wildfowl. crunch, cut into, gnaw, masticate,
□ albatross, auk, bittern, blackbird, munch, nibble, nip, rend, snap, tear
budgerigar, bullfinch, bunting, bustard, at, wound. 2 An insect bit me. pierce,
buzzard, canary, cassowary, chaffinch, sting. 3 The screw won’t bite, grip, hold.
chiff-chaff, chough, cockatoo, coot, cor- bitter adj 1 acid, acrid, harsh, sharp,
morant, corncrake, crane, crow, cuckoo, sour, unpleasant. 2 a bitter experi-
curlew, dabchick, dipper, dove, duck, ence. calamitous, dire, distasteful,
dunnock, eagle, egret, emu, falcon, finch, distressing, galling, hateful,
flamingo, flycatcher, fulmar, goldcrest, heartbreaking, painful, poignant,
goldfinch, goose, grebe, greenfinch, sorrowful, unhappy, unwelcome,
grouse, gull, hawk, heron, hoopoe, horn- upsetting. 3 bitter remarks, acrimo-
bill, humming bird, ibis, jackdaw, jay, nious, acerbic, angry, cruel, cynical,
kingfisher, kestrel, kite, kiwi, kookaburra, embittered, envious, hostile, jaun-
lapwing, lark, linnet, macaw, magpie, diced, jealous, malicious, rancorous,
martin, mina bird, moorhen, nightingale, resentful, savage, sharp, spiteful,
nightjar, nuthatch, oriole, osprey, ostrich, stinging, vicious, violent, waspish.
ousel, owl, parakeet, parrot, partridge, 4 a bitter wind, biting, cold, fierce,
peacock, peewit, pelican, penguin, per- freezing, perishing, piercing, raw.
egrine, petrel, pheasant, pigeon, pipit, Opp KIND, MILD, PLEASANT.
plover, ptarmigan, puffin, quail, raven,
bizarre adj curious, eccentric, fan-
redbreast, redstart, robin, rook, sand-
piper, seagull, shearwater, shelduck,
tastic, freakish, grotesque, odd, out-
landish, outre, surreal, weird. >
shrike, skua, skylark, snipe, sparrow,
STRANGE. Opp ORDINARY.
sparrowhawk, spoonbill, starling,
stonechat, stork, swallow, swan, swift, black adj blackish, coal-black, dark,
teal, tern, thrush, tit, toucan, turkey, dusky, ebony, funereal, gloomy, inky,
turtle-dove, vulture, wagtail, warbler, jet, jet-black, moonless, murky,
waxwing, wheatear, woodcock, wood- pitch-black, pitch-dark, raven, sable,
pecker, wren, yellowhammer. sooty, starless, unlit. • v 1 blacken,
polish. 2 > BLACKLIST.
birth n 1 childbirth, confinement,
delivery, labour, nativity, parturition. blackleg n si scab, strikebreaker,
2 ancestry, background, blood, traitor.
breeding, derivation, descent, extrac- blacklist v ban, bar, blackball, boy-
tion, family, genealogy, line, lineage, cott, debar, disallow, exclude, ostra-
parentage, pedigree, race, stock, cize, preclude, proscribe, put an
strain. 3 > b e g in n in g , give birth bear, embargo on, refuse to handle, repu-
calve, farrow, foal. > b e g in . diate, snub, veto.
bisect v cross, cut in half, divide, blade n dagger, edge, knife, razor,
halve, intersect. scalpel, vane. > s w o r d .
bit n 1 atom, bite, block, chip, chunk, blame n accountability, accusation,
crumb, division, dollop, fraction, castigation, censure, charge, com-
fragment, gobbet, grain, helping, plaint, condemnation, criticism,
hunk, iota, lump, modicum, morsel, culpability, fault, guilt, imputation,
mouthful, part, particle, piece, por- incrimination, liability, onus, inf rap,
tion, sample, scrap, section, segment, recrimination, reprimand, reproach,
share, slab, slice, snippet, soup^on, reproof, responsibility, inf stick, stric-
speck, spot, taste, titbit, trace. 2 Wait ture. • v accuse, admonish, censure,
37 blight
charge, chide, condemn, criticize, depressing, desolate, dismal, dreaiy,
denounce, inf get at, hold respons- exposed, grim, hopeless, joyless,
ible, incriminate, rebuke, reprehend, sombre, uncomfortable, unpromis-
reprimand, reproach, reprove, round ing, windswept, wintiy. Opp c o mf o r t -
on, scold, tax, upbraid. Opp e x c u s e . a b l e , w a r m.
blameless adj faultless, guiltless, bleary adj blurred, inf blurry, cloudy,
innocent, irreproachable, moral, dim, filmy, fogged, foggy, fuzzy,
unimpeachable, upright. Opp g u il t y . hazy, indistinct, misty, murky,
bland adj affable, amiable, banal, obscured, smeary, unclear, wateiy.
boring, calm, characterless, dull, flat, Opp c l e a r .
gentle, insipid, mild, nondescript, blemish n blot, blotch, chip, crack,
smooth, soft, soothing, suave, taste- defect, deformity, disfigurement,
less, trite, unappetizing, unexciting, eyesore, fault, flaw, imperfection,
uninspiring, uninteresting, vapid, mark, mess, smudge, speck, stain,
wateiy, weak, inf wishy-washy. Opp ugliness. □ birthmark, blackhead, blis-
INTERESTING. ter, callus, com, freckle, mole, naevus,
blank adj 1 bare, clean, clear, empty, pimple, pustule, scar, spot, verruca, wart,'
plain, spotless, unadorned, un- whitlow, si zit. • v deface, disfigure,
marked, unused, void. 2 a blank look. flaw, mar, mark, scar, spoil, stain,
apathetic, baffled, baffling, dead, inf tarnish.
deadpan, emotionless, expression- blend n alloy, amalgam, amalgama-
less, featureless, glazed, immobile, tion, combination, composite, com-
impassive, inane, inscrutable, pound, concoction, fusion, melange,
lifeless, poker-faced, uncompre- mix, mixture, synthesis, union. • v
hending, unresponsive, vacant, 1 amalgamate, coalesce, combine,
vacuous. • n 1 emptiness, nothing- commingle, compound, fuse, har-
ness, vacuity, vacuum, void. 2 blanks monize, integrate, intermingle,
on a form, box, break, gap, line, space, intermix, meld, merge, mingle, syn-
blaspheme v curse, execrate, im- thesize, unite. 2 blend in a bowl, beat,
precate, profane, swear. mix, stir together, whip, whisk.
blasphemous adj disrespectful, bless v 1 anoint, consecrate, ded-
godless, impious, irreligious, irrev- icate, grace, hallow, make sacred,
erent, profane, sacrilegious, sinful, ordain, sanctify. 2 bless God’s name.
ungodly, wicked. Opp r e v e r e n t . adore, exalt, extol, glorify, magnify,
blast n 1 gale, gust, wind. 2 blare, praise. Opp c u r s e .
din, noise, racket, roar, sound. 3 > blessed adj 1 adored, divine, hal-
EXPLOSION. • V > ATTACK, EXPLODE, blast lowed, holy, revered, sacred, sancti-
Off> LAUNCH. fied. 2 > h a ppy .
blatant adj apparent, barefaced, blessing n 1 benediction, consecra-
bold, brazen, conspicuous, evident, tion, grace, prayer. 2 approbation,
flagrant, glaring, obtrusive, obvious, approval, backing, concurrence, con-
open, overt, shameless, stark, uncon- sent, leave, permission, sanction,
cealed, undisguised, unmistakable, support. 3 Warmth is a blessing, ad-
visible. Opp h id d e n . vantage, asset, benefit, boon, com-
blaze n conflagration, fire, flame, fort, convenience, inf godsend, help.
flare-up, holocaust, inferno, out- Opp CURSE, MISFORTUNE.
burst. • v bum, erupt, flame, flare. blight n affliction, ailment, old use
bleach v blanch, discolour, etiolate, bane, cancer, canker, curse, decay,
fade, lighten, pale, peroxide (hair), disease, evil, illness, infestation, mis-
whiten. fortune, old use pestilence, plague,
bleak adj bare, barren, blasted, pollution, rot, scourge, sickness,
cheerless, chilly, cold, comfortless, trouble. • v > s po il .
 38
blind
blind adj 1 blinded, eyeless, sightless, bloody adj 1 bleeding, bloodstained,
unseeing, n astigmatic, colour-blind, raw. 2 a bloody battle, cruel, gory, san-
long-sighted, myopic, near-sighted, guinary. > BLOODTHIRSTY.
short-sighted, suffering from cataract, bloom n 1 blossom, bud, floret,
sufferingfrom glaucoma, visually handi- flower. 2 bloom of youth, beauty,
capped. 2 blind devotion, blinkered, blush, flush, glow, prime. • v be
heedless, ignorant, inattentive, healthy, blossom, poet blow, bud,
indifferent, indiscriminate, insen- burgeon, inf come out, develop, flour-
sible, insensitive, irrational, mind- ish, flower, grow, open, prosper,
less, oblivious, prejudiced, unaware, sprout, thrive. Opp f a d e .
unobservant, unreasoning. • n awn-
blot n 1 blob, blotch, mark, smear,
ing, cover, curtain, screen, shade,
smirch, smudge, inf splodge, spot,
shutters. • v 1 dazzle, make blind.
stain. 2 blot on the landscape, blemish,
2 > DECEIVE.
defect, eyesore, fault, flaw, ugliness.
blink v coruscate, flash, flicker, flut- • v bespatter, blemish, blotch, blur,
ter, gleam, glimmer, shimmer, disfigure, mar, mark, smudge, spoil,
sparkle, twinkle, wink. spot, stain, blot out > o b l it e r a t e , blot
your copybook mis b e h a v e .
bliss h blessedness, delight, ecstasy,
euphoria, felicity, gladness, glee, hap- blotchy adj blemished, brindled, dis-
piness, heaven, joy, paradise, rap- coloured, inflamed, marked, patchy,
ture; > PLEASURE. Opp MISERY. smudged, spotty, streaked, uneven.
bloated adj dilated, distended, blow n 1 bang, bash, inf belt, inf biff,
enlarged, inflated, puffy, swollen. box (ears), buffet, bump, clip, clout,
clump, concussion, hit, jolt, knock,
block n 1 bar, brick, cake, chock, punch, rap, slap, inf slosh, smack, inf
chunk, hunk, ingot, lump, mass, sock, stroke, swat, swipe, thump,
piece, slab. 2 > b l o c k a g e . • v 1 bar, thwack, wallop, welt, whack, whop.
barricade, inf bung up, choke, clog, 2 a sad blow, affliction, inf bombshell,
close, congest, constrict, dam, fill, calamity, disappointment, disaster,
impede, jam, obstruct, plug, stop up. misfortune, shock, surprise, upset. •
2 block a plan, deter, halt, hamper, v blast, breathe, exhale, fan, puff,
hinder, hold back, prevent, prohibit, waft, whine, whirl, whistle, blow up
resist, inf scotch, inf stonewall, stop, 1 dilate, enlarge, expand, fill, inflate,
thwart. pump up. 2 exaggerate, magnify,
blockage n barrier, block, bottle- make worse, overstate. 3 blast,
neck, congestion, constriction, hin- bomb, burst, detonate, dynamite,
drance, impediment, jam, obstacle, erupt, explode, go off, set off, shatter.
obstruction, resistance, stoppage. 4 [infl erupt, get angiy, lose your tem-
per, rage.
blond,
blue adj 1 aquamarine, azure,
blonde adjs bleached, fair, flaxen, cerulean, cobalt, indigo, navy, sap-
golden, light, platinum, silvery, yel- phire, sky-blue, turquoise, ultrama-
low. rine. 2 > b a w d y . 3 > s a d . • v >
bloodshed n bloodletting, butchery,
SQUANDER.
carnage, killing, massacre, murder, blueprint n basis, design, draft,
slaughter, slaying, violence. model, outline, pattern, pilot, plan,
project, proposal, prototype, scheme,
bloodthirsty adj barbaric, brutal,
feral, ferocious, fierce, homicidal, bluff v cozen, deceive, delude, dupe,
inhuman, murderous, pitiless, ruth- fool, hoodwink, mislead.
less, sadistic, sanguinary, savage, blunder n inf boob, inf botch, inf
vicious, violent, warlike. > c r u e l . Opp clanger, si cock-up, error, fault, Fr
HUMANE. faux pas, gaffe, howler, indiscretion,
39 bogus
miscalculation, misjudgement, mis- orate, jury, panel. • v 1 accommod-
take, slip, slip-up, solecism. • v be ate, billet, feed, house, lodge, put up,
clumsy, inf botch up, bumble, quarter, stay. 2 board a bus. catch,
bungle, inf drop a clanger, err, floun- embark (on), enter, get on, go on
der, inf foul up, si goof, go wrong, inf board.
make a hash of something, make a boast v si be all mouth, inf blow your
mistake, mess up, miscalculate, mis- own trumpet, bluster, brag, crow,
judge, inf put your foot in it, slip up, exaggerate, gloat, praise yourself, si
stumble. shoot a line, show off, inf sing your
blunt adj 1 dull, rounded, thick, own praises, swagger, in/swank, inf
unpointed, unsharpened, worn. Opp talk big, vaunt.
s h a r p . 2 blunt criticism, abrupt, bluff,
boaster n inf big-head, inf big
brusque, candid, curt, direct, down- mouth, braggadocio, braggart, inf
right, forthright, frank, honest, loudmouth, inf poser, show-off, swag-
insensitive, outspoken, plain-spoken, gerer, swank.
rude, straightforward, tactless, un-
ceremonious, undiplomatic. Opp t a c t - boastful adj inf big-headed, brag-
f u l . • v abate, allay, anaesthetize, ging, inf cocky, conceited, egotist-
dampen, deaden, desensitize, dull, ical, ostentatious, proud, puffed up,
lessen, numb, soften, take the edge swaggering, swanky, swollen-headed,
off, weaken. Opp s h a r pe n . vain, vainglorious. Opp mo d e s t .
blur v bedim, befog, blear, cloud, con- boat n craft, ship. > v e s s e l .
ceal, confuse, darken, dim, fog, boatman n bargee, coxswain, ferry-
mask, muddle, obscure, smear, unfo- man, gondolier, lighterman, oars-
cus. man, rower, waterman, yachtsman.
blurred adj bleary, blurry, clouded, t> s a il o r .
cloudy, confused, dim, faint, foggy, bob v be agitated, bounce, dance,
fuzzy, hazy, ill-defined, indefinite, hop, jerk, jig about, jolt, jump, leap,
indistinct, misty, nebulous, out of move about, nod, oscillate, shake,
focus, smoky, unclear, unfocused, toss about, twitch, bob up t> a ppe a r .
vague. Opp c l e a r . body n 1 anatomy, being, build,
blurt v blurt out be indiscreet, inf figure, form, frame, individual,
blab, burst out with, come out with, physique, shape, substance, torso,
ciy out, disclose, divulge, exclaim, trunk. 2 cadaver, carcass, corpse,
inf give the game away, let out, let mortal remains, mummy, relics,
slip, reveal, inf spill the beans, tell, remains, si stiff. 3 association, band,
utter. committee, company, corporation,
blush v be ashamed, colour, flush, society. > g r o u p. 4 body of material.
glow, go red, redden. accumulation, agglomeration, col-
lection, corpus, mass.
blustering adj angiy, boasting, bois-
terous, bragging, bullying, crowing, bodyguard n defender, guard,
defiant, domineering, hectoring, minder, protector.
noisy, ranting, selfassertive, show- bog n fen, marsh, marshland, mire,
ing-off, storming, swaggering, threat- morass, mudflats, peat bog, quag-
ening, vaunting, violent. Opp m o d e s t . mire, quicksands, salt-marsh, old
blustery adj gusty, squally, un- use slough, swamp, wetlands, get
settled, windy. bogged down be hindered, get into
board n 1 blockboard, chipboard,
difficulties, get stuck, grind to a halt,
clapboard, panel, plank, plywood, sink.
scantling, sheet, slab, slat, timber, bogus adj counterfeit, fake, false, fic-
weatherboard. 2 board of directors. titious, fraudulent, imitation, inf
cabinet, committee, council, direct- phoney, sham, spurious. Opp g e n u in e .
Bohemian 40

Bohemian adj inf arty, old use beat- 2 badger, beset, harass, importune,
nik, bizarre, eccentric, hippie, in- pester, plague.
formal, nonconformist, off-beat, bombardment n attack, barrage,
unconventional, unorthodox, inf blast, blitz, broadside, burst, can-
way-out, weird. nonade, discharge, fusillade, hail,
boil n abscess, blister, carbuncle, salvo, volley.
chilblain, eruption, gathering, gum- bombastic adj extravagant, gran-
boil, inflammation, pimple, pock, diloquent, grandiose, high-flown,
pustule, sore, spot, tumour, ulcer, si inflated, magniloquent, pompous,
zit. • v 1 cook, heat, simmer, stew. turgid.
2 bubble, effervesce, foam, seethe,
steam. 3 t> r a g e . bond n 1 chain, cord, fastening, fet-
ters, handcuffs, manacles, restraints,
boisterous adj animated, disorderly,
rope, shackles. 2 bond of friendship.
exuberant, irrepressible, lively, loud,
affiliation, affinity, attachment, con-
noisy, obstreperous, riotous, rollick-
nection, link, relationship, tie, unity.
ing, rough, rowdy, stormy, tempes-
3 a legal bond, agreement, compact,
tuous, tumultuous, undisciplined,
unrestrained, unruly, uproarious, contract, covenant, guarantee, legal
document, pledge, promise, word.
wild. Opp CALM.
• V t> STICK.
bold adj 1 adventurous, audacious,
brave, confident, courageous, dare- bondage n enslavement, serfdom,
devil, daring, dauntless, enterpris- servitude, slavery, subjection, thral-
ing, fearless, derog foolhardy, dom, vassalage.
forceful, gallant, hardy, heroic, in- bonus n 1 bounty, commission, divi-
trepid, inf plucky, derog rash, derog dend, gift, gratuity, hand-out, hono-
reckless, resolute, self-confident, rarium, largesse, payment, inf perk,
unafraid, valiant, valorous, venture- reward, supplement, tip. 2 addition,
some. 2 [derog] a bold request, brash, advantage, benefit, extra, inf plus.
brazen, inf cheeky, forward, fresh,
bony adj angular, emaciated, gang-
impertinent, impudent, insolent,
pert, presumptuous, rude, saucy,
ling, gawky, lanky, lean, scraggy,
shameless, unashamed. 3 bold colours, scrawny, skinny, thin, ungainly. Opp
writing, big, bright, clear, conspicu- GRACEFUL, PLUMP.
ous, eye-catching, large, obvious, book n booklet, copy, edition, hard-
prominent, pronounced, showy, back, paperback, publication, tome,
striking, strong, vivid. Opp f a in t , t imid . volume, work. □ album, annual, antho-
bolster n cushion, pillow. • v t> s u p - logy, atlas, bestiary, old use chap-book,
po r t . compendium, concordance, diary, dic-
tionary, digest, directory, encyclopaedia,
bolt n 1 arrow, dart, missile, project- fiction, gazetteer, guidebook, handbook,
ile. 2 peg, pin, rivet, rod, screw. 3 bolt hymnal, hymn-book, jotter, ledger, lex-
on a door, bar, catch, fastening, latch, icon, libretto, manual, manuscript, missal,
lock. • v 1 bar, close, fasten, latch, notebook, omnibus, picture-book, prayer-
lock, secure. 2 The animals bolted. book, primer, psalter, reading book, ref-
abscond, dart away, dash away, erence book, music score, scrap-book,
escape, flee, fly, run off, rush off. scroll, sketch-book, textbook, thesaurus,
3 bolt food. t> e a t . bolt from the blue vade mecum. t> w r it in g . • v 1 book for
t> SURPRISE. speeding, arrest, take your name,
bomb n bombshell, explosive. > write down details. 2 book in advance.
WEAPON. • V t> BOMBARD. arrange, buy, engage, order, organ-
bombard v 1 assail, assault, attack, ize, reserve, sign up.
batter, blast, blitz, bomb, fire at, booklet n brochure, leaflet, pam-
pelt, pound, shell, shoot at, strafe. phlet, paperback.
41 bound
boom n 1 bang, blast, crash, explo- obtain, pirate, plagiarize, inf
sion, reverberation, roar, rumble. > scrounge, inf sponge, take, use,
s o u n d . 2 boom in trade, bonanza, usurp. Opp LEND.
boost, expansion, growth, improve- boss n employer, head. > c h ie f .
ment, increase, spurt, upsurge,
upturn. > pr o s pe r it y . 3 boom across a bossy adj aggressive, assertive,
river. > b a r r ie r . • v 1 > s o u n d . 2 > authoritarian, autocratic, bullying,
PROSPER. despotic, dictatorial, domineering,
exacting, hectoring, high-handed,
boorish adj barbarian, ignorant, ill- imperious, lordly, magisterial, mas-
bred, ill-mannered, loutish, oafish, terful, officious, oppressive, over-
philistine, uncultured, vulgar. Opp bearing, peremptory, inf pushy,
CULTURED. self-assertive, tyrannical. Opp s e r v il e .
boost n aid, encouragement, fillip, bother n 1 ado, difficulty, disorder,
impetus, help, lift, push, stimulus. • disturbance, fuss, inf hassle, prob-
v advance, aid, assist, augment, bol- lem, inf to-do. 2 annoyance, incon-
ster, build up, buoy up, encourage, venience, irritation, nuisance, pest,
enhance, enlarge, expand, foster, fur- trouble, wony. • v 1 annoy, bewilder,
ther, give an impetus to, heighten, concern, conftise, disconcert, dismay,
help, improve, increase, inspire, lift, disturb, exasperate, harass, inf
promote, push up, raise, support, hassle, inconvenience, irk, irritate,
sustain. Opp d e pr e s s . molest, nag, perturb, pester, plague,
booth n box, carrel, compartment, trouble, upset, vex, worry. 2 be con-
cubicle, hut, kiosk, stall, stand. cerned, be worried, care, mind, take
booty n contraband, gains, haul, trouble. > t r o u b l e .
loot, pickings, pillage, plunder, bottle n flask. □ carafe, carboy,
spoils, inf swag, takings, trophies, decanter, flagon, jar, jeroboam, mag-
winnings. num, phial, pitcher, vial, wine-bottle.
border n 1 brim, brink, edge, edging, bottle up > s u ppr e s s .
frame, frieze, frill, fringe, hem, mar- bottom adj deepest, least, lowest,
gin, perimeter, periphery, rim, sur- minimum. • n 1 base, bed, depth,
round, verge. 2 borderline, boundary, floor, foot, foundation, lowest point,
frontier, limit. 3 flower border, bed, nadir, pedestal, substructure, under-
herbaceous border. • v abut on, neath, underside. Opp t o p . 2 basis,
adjoin, be adjacent to, be alongside, essence, grounds, heart, origin, root,
join, share a border with, touch. source. 3 your bottom, vulg arse, back-
bore v 1 burrow, drill, mine, pen- side, behind, inf bum, buttocks, joc
etrate, sink, tunnel. > pie r c e . 2 bore posterior, rear, rump, seat, inf sit-
listeners, alienate, depress, jade, inf upon.
leave cold, tire, inf turn off, weary. bottomless adj deep, immeasur-
Opp in t e r e s t . able, unfathomable, unplumbable.
boring adj arid, commonplace, dead, bounce v bob, bound, bump, jump,
dreary, dry, dull, flat, humdrum, leap, move about, rebound, recoil,
long-winded, monotonous, prolix, ricochet, spring.
repetitious, repetitive, soporific,
bound adj 1 certain, committed,
stale, tedious, tiresome, trite, compelled, constrained, destined,
uneventful, unexciting, uninspiring, doomed, duty-bound, fated, forced,
uninteresting, vapid, wearisome, obligated, obliged, pledged, required,
wordy. Opp in t e r e s t in g . sure. 2 bound with rope. > b in d . • v
bom adj congenital, genuine, instinc- bob, bounce, caper, frisk, frolic, gam-
tive, natural, untaught. bol, hop, hurdle, jump, leap, pounce,
borrow v adopt, appropriate, be lent, romp, skip, spring, vault, bound for
inf cadge, copy, crib, make use of, aimed at, directed towards, going to,
boundary 42

heading for, making for, off to, trav- boy n derog brat, inf kid, lad, school-
elling towards. boy, son, derog stripling, derog urchin,
boundary n border, borderline,
youngster, youth.
bounds, brink, circumference, con- boycott n ban, blacklist, embargo,
fines, demarcation, edge, end, prohibition. • v avoid, black, black-
extremity, fringe, frontier, interface, ball, blacklist, exclude, inf give the
limit, margin, perimeter, threshold, cold-shoulder to, ignore, make
verge. unwelcome, ostracize, outlaw, pro-
boundless adj endless, everlasting, hibit, spurn, stay away from.
immeasurable, incalculable, inex- bracing adj crisp, exhilarating,
haustible, infinite, limitless, un- health-giving, invigorating, refresh-
bounded, unconfined, unflagging, ing, restorative, stimulating, tonic.
unlimited, unrestricted, untold. brag v crow, gloat, show off. > b o a s t .
> VAST. Opp FINITE.
brain n cerebrum, inf grey matter,
bounty rt alms, altruism, benefi- intellect, intelligence, mind, inf nous,
cence, benevolence, charity, gen- reason, sense, understanding, wis-
erosity, giving, goodness, kindness, dom, wit.
largesse, liberality, munificence, phil-
brainwash v condition, indoctrin-
anthropy, unselfishness.
ate, re-educate.
bouquet n 1 arrangement, bunch,
branch n 1 arm, bough, limb, prong,
buttonhole, corsage, garland, nose-
gay,. posy, spray, wreath. 2 bouquet shoot, sprig, stem, twig. 2 depart-
of wine. t> s me l l . ment, division, office, offshoot, part,
ramification, section, subdivision,
bout n 1 attack, fit, period, run, spell, wing. • v diverge, divide, fork, ram-
stint, stretch, time, turn. 2 battle, ify, split, subdivide, branch out >
combat, competition, contest, en- DIVERSIFY.
counter, engagement, fight, match,
round, inf set-to, struggle. brand n kind, label, line, make, sort,
trademark, type, variety. • v 1 bum,
bow v 1 bend, bob, curtsy, genuflect, identify, label, mark, scar, stamp,
incline, kowtow, nod, prostrate your- tag. 2 censure, characterize, de-
self, salaam, stoop. 2 > s u b mit . nounce, discredit, stigmatize, vilify.
bowels plur n 1 entrails, guts, inf brash adj brazen, bumptious, inso-
innards, insides, intestines, viscera, lent, rash, reckless, rude, self-
vitals. 2 core, depths, heart, inside. assertive. > ARROGANT.
bower n alcove, arbour, bay, gazebo, bravado n arrogance, bluster, brag-
grotto, hideaway, pavilion, pergola, gadocio, machismo, swagger.
recess, retreat, sanctuary, shelter,
summer-house. brave adj adventurous, audacious,
bold, chivalrous, cool, courageous,
bowl n basin, bath, casserole, con- daring, dauntless, determined, fear-
tainer, dish, pan, pie-dish, tureen. less, gallant, game, si gutsy, heroic,
• v fling, hurl, lob, pitch, throw, toss. indomitable, intrepid, lion-hearted,
box n carton, case, chest, container, derog macho, noble, inf plucky, res-
crate. □ bin, caddy, canister, cartridge, olute, spirited, stalwart, stoical,
casket, coffer, coffin, pack, package, pun- stout-hearted, tough, unafraid,
net, tea-chest, tin, trunk. • v inf engage uncomplaining, undaunted, un-
in fisticuffs, fight, punch, scrap, spar. shrinking, valiant, valorous, ven-
> HIT. turesome. Opp COWARDLY.
boxer n prize-fighter, sparring part- bravery n audacity, boldness, si
ner. □ bantamweight, cruiserweight, bottle, courage, daring, dauntless-
featherweight, flyweight, heavyweight, ness, determination, fearlessness,
lightweight, middleweight, welterweight. fibre, firmness, fortitude, gallantry,
43 brew
inf grit, inf guts, heroism, intrepidity, breakdown n 1 collapse, destruc-
mettle, inf nerve, in/pluck, prowess, tion, disintegration, downfall, fail-
resolution, spirit, st spunk, sto- ure, fault, hitch, malfunction, ruin,
icism, tenacity, valour, will-power. stoppage. 2 analysis, classification,
Opp COWARDICE. detailing, dissection, itemization, inf
brawl n affray, altercation, in/bust- rundown.
up, clash, inf dust-up, fracas, fray, inf breakthrough n advance, develop-
free-for-all, melee, inf punch-up, ment, discovery, find, improvement,
quarrel, row, scrap, scuffle, inf set-to, innovation, invention, leap forward,
tussle. • v > FIGHT. progress, revolution, success.
brazen adj barefaced, blatant, breakwater n groyne, jetty, mole,
cheeky, defiant, flagrant, imper- pier, sea-defence.
tinent, impudent, insolent, rude,
breath n breeze, gust, murmur,
shameless, unabashed, unashamed.
pant, puff, sigh, stir, waft, whiff,
Opp SHAMEFACED.
whisper.
breach n 1 aperture, break, chasm,
breathe vb 1 exhale, inhale, pant,
crack, fissure, gap, hole, opening,
puff, respire, suspire. 2 hint, let out,
rent, space, split. 2 alienation, dif-
tell, whisper.
ference, disagreement, divorce, drift-
ing apart, estrangement, quarrel, breathless adj exhausted, gasping,
rift, rupture, schism, separation, out of breath, panting, in/puffed, inf
split. 3 breach of law. contravention, puffing and blowing, tired out,
failure, infringement, offence, trans- wheezy, winded.
gression, violation. breed n ancestry, clan, family, kind,
bread n □ brioche, cob, croissant, French line, lineage, nation, pedigree, pro-
bread, loaf, roll, stick of bread, toast. > geny, race, sort, species, stock, strain,
FOOD. type, variety. • vb 1 bear young ones,
break n 1 breach, breakage, burst,
beget young ones, increase, multi-
chink, cleft, crack, crevice, cut, fis- ply, procreate, produce young, prop-
sure, fracture, gap, gash, hole, leak, agate (plants), raise young ones,
opening, rent, rift, rupture, slit, split, reproduce. 2 breed contempt, arouse,
tear. 2 break from work, inf breather, cause, create, cultivate, develop,
breathing-space, hiatus, interlude, engender, foster, generate, induce,
intermission, interval, in/let-up, lull, nourish, nurture, occasion.
pause, respite, rest, tea-break. 3 break breeze n air-current, breath,
in service, disruption, halt, interrup- draught, waft, wind, poet zephyr.
tion, lapse, suspension. • v 1 breach, breezy adj aiiy, in/blowy, draughty,
burst, in/bust, chip, crack, crumple, fresh, gusty, windy.
crush, damage, demolish, fracture,
fragment, knock down, ruin, shat- brevity n briefness, compactness,
ter, shiver, smash, inf smash to compression, conciseness, concision,
smithereens, snap, splinter, split, curtness, economy, incisiveness,
squash, wreck. > d e s t r o y . 2 break the pithiness, shortness, succinctness,
law. contravene, defy, disobey, disre- terseness.
gard, fail to observe, flout, go back brew n blend, compound, concoc-
on, infringe, transgress, violate. tion, drink, hash, infusion, liquor,
3 break a record, beat, better, do more mixture, potion, preparation, punch,
than, exceed, excel, go beyond, stew. • vb 1 boil, cook, ferment,
outdo, outstrip, pass, surpass, break infuse, make, simmer, steep, stew.
down > a n a l y s e , d e m o l is h , break in > 2 brew mischief, concoct, contrive, inf
INTERRUPT, INTRUDE, break Off > FINISH, cook up, develop, devise, foment,
break out e s c a pe , break through hatch, plan, plot, prepare, scheme,
pe n e t r a t e , break up > DISINTEGRATE. stir up.
bribe 44

bribe n si backhander, bribery, inf glowing, incandescent, lambent,

carrot, enticement, si graft, gratuity, light, luminous, lustrous, pellucid,
incentive, inducement, inf payola, polished, radiant, refulgent, resplen-
protection money, inf sweetener, tip. dent, scintillating, shimmering, shin-
• vb buy off, corrupt, entice, inf ing, shiny, showy, sparkling,
grease your palm, influence, offer a twinkling, vivid. 2 bright sky. clear,
bribe, pervert, reward, suborn, cloudless, fair, sunny. 3 bright
tempt, tip. prospects, auspicious, favourable,
brick n block, breeze-block, cube, set,
good, hopeful, optimistic, rosy. 4 a
bright smile. t> c h e e r f u l . 5 bright ideas.
sett, stone.
I> CLEVER. Opp DULL.
bridge n arch, connection, crossing,
link, span, way over. □ aqueduct, brighten vb 1 cheer (up), enliven,
Bailey bridge, drawbridge, flyover, gladden, illuminate, light up, liven
footbridge, overpass, pontoon bridge, up, inf perk up, revitalize, smarten
suspension bridge, swing bridge, viaduct. up. 2 The sky brightened, become
• vb connect, cross, fill, join, link, sunny, clear up, lighten.
pass over, span, straddle, tie brilliant adj 1 coruscating, dazzling,
together, traverse, unite. glaring, glittering, glorious, intense,
bridle vb check, control, curb, resplendent, scintillating, shining,
restrain. showy, sparkling, splendid, vivid. t>
brief adj 1 cursory, ephemeral, b r ig h t . Opp d u l l 2 [in/] a brilliant game.
evanescent, fast, fleeting, hasty, lim- > EXCELLENT.
ited, little, momentary, passing, brim n brink, circumference, edge,
quick, sharp, short, short-lived, tem- limit, lip, margin, peri-meter, peri-
porary, transient, transitory. 2 brief phery, rim, top, verge.
comment, abbreviated, abridged, com-
pact, compendious, compressed, con- bring vb 1 bear, carry, convey,
cise, condensed, crisp, curt, curtailed, deliver, fetch, take, transfer, trans-
incisive, laconic, pithy, shortened, port. 2 bring a friend, accompany, con-
succinct, terse, thumbnail, to the duct, escort, guide, lead, usher. 3 The
point. Opp l o n g . • n 1 advice, briefing, play brought great applause, attract,
data, description, directions, in- cause, create, draw, earn, engender,
formation, instructions, orders, out- generate, get, give rise to, induce,
line, plan. 2 a barrister’s brief. lead to, occasion, produce, prompt,
argument, case, defence, dossier, provoke, result in. bring about t> c r e -
summary. • vb advise, coach, direct, a t e . bring in t> e a r n , in t r o d u c e , bring
enlighten, inf fill someone in, give off t> a c h ie v e , bring on t> a c c e l e r a t e ,
someone the facts, guide, inform, c a u s e , bring out t> e mph a s iz e , pr o d u c e .
instruct, prepare, prime, inf put bring up > e d u c a t e , r a is e .
someone in the picture.
brink n bank, border, boundary,
briefs n camiknickers, knickers, brim, circumference, edge, fringe,
panties, pants, shorts, trunks, under- limit, lip, margin, perimeter, peri-
pants. phery, rim, skirt, threshold, verge.
brigand n bandit, buccaneer, des-
brisk adj 1 active, alert, animated,
perado, footpad, gangster, highway- bright, businesslike, bustling, busy,
man, marauder, outlaw, pirate, crisp, decisive, energetic, fast, keen,
robber, ruffian, thief. lively, nimble, quick, rapid, inf
bright adj 1 ablaze, aglow, alight, snappy, inf spanking (pace), speedy,
beaming, blazing, burnished, colour- spirited, sprightly, spry, vigorous.
ful, dazzling, flashing, derog flashy, Opp l e is u r e l y . 2 a brisk wind, bracing,
fresh, derog gaudy, glaring, gleam- enlivening, fresh, invigorating,
ing, glistening, glittering, glossy, refreshing, stimulating.
 45 brute
bristle n barb, hair, prickle, quill, brood n children, clutch (of eggs),
spine, stubble, thorn, whisker, wire. family, issue, litter, offspring, pro-
• vb become angry, become de- geny, young. • vb 1 hatch, incubate,
fensive, become indignant, bridle, sit on. 2 brood over mistakes, agonize,
flare up. dwell (on), infeat your heart out, fret,
brittle adj breakable, crackly, crisp, mope, sulk, worry. > t h in k .
crumbling, delicate, easily broken, brook n beck, bum, channel, poet rill,
fragile, frail, frangible, weak. Opp rivulet, runnel, stream, watercourse.
FLEXIBLE, RESILIENT. • vb > t o l e r a t e .
broad adj 1 ample, capacious, ex- browbeat vb badger, bully, coerce,
pansive, extensive, great, large, open, cow, hector, intimidate, tyrannize. >
roomy, spacious, sweeping, vast, f r ig h t e n .
wide. 2 broad daylight, clear, full,
open, plain, undisguised. 3 broad out- brown adj beige, bronze, buff, chest-
line. general, imprecise, indefinite, nut, chocolate, dun, fawn, khaki,
inexact, non-specific, sweeping, ochre, russet, sepia, tan, tawny, ter-
undetailed, vague. 4 broad tastes. all- racotta, umber. • vb bronze, bum,
embracing, catholic, comprehensive, colour, grill, tan, toast.
eclectic, encyclopaedic, universal, browse vb 1 crop grass, eat, feed,
wide-ranging. 5 broad humour, bawdy, graze, pasture. 2 browse in a book, dip
si blue, coarse, earthy, improper, in, flick through, leaf through, look
impure, indecent, indelicate, racy, through, peruse, read here and
ribald, suggestive, vulgar. t> b r o a d - there, scan, skim, thumb through.
m in d e d . Opp FINITE, NARROW. bruise n black eye, bump, contusion,
broadcast n programme, relay, discoloration, inf shiner, welt. • vb
show, telecast, transmission. • vb blacken, crash, damage, discolour,
1 advertise, announce, circulate, dis- injure, knock, mark. > w o u n d .
seminate, make known, make pub- brush n 1 besom, broom. 2 brush with
lic, proclaim, promulgate, publish, police. > c o n f l ic t . • vb 1 comb, groom,
relay, report, send out, spread about, scrub, sweep, tidy, whisk. 2 just
televise, transmit. 2 broadcast seed. brushed the gatepost, graze, touch,
scatter, sow at random. brush aside > d is m is s , d is r e g a r d .
broadcaster n anchor-man, an- brush-off > REBUFF, brush up > REVISE,
nouncer, commentator, compere, brutal adj atrocious, barbaric, bar-
disc jockey, DJ, linkman, newsreader, barous, beastly, bestial, bloodthirsty,
presenter. > e n t e r t a in e r . bloody, brutish, callous, cold-
broaden vb branch out, build up, blooded, cruel, dehumanized, fero-
develop, diversify, enlarge, expand, cious, hard-hearted, heartless,
extend, increase, open up, spread, inhuman, inhumane, merciless,
widen. Opp l imit . murderous, pitiless, remorseless,
broad-minded adj all-embracing, ruthless, sadistic, savage, uncivilized,
balanced, broad, catholic, compre- unfeeling, vicious, violent, wild. >
hensive, cosmopolitan, eclectic, UNKIND. Opp HUMANE.
enlightened, liberal, open-minded, brutalize vb dehumanize, harden,
permissive, tolerant, unbiased, inure, make brutal.
unbigoted, unprejudiced, unshock-
brute adj crude, irrational, mindless,
able. Opp NARROW-MINDED.
physical, rough, stupid, unfeeling,
brochure n booklet, broadsheet, unthinking. > b r u t is h . • n 1 beast,
catalogue, circular, folder, handbill, creature, dumb animal. > a n im a l .
leaflet, pamphlet, prospectus, tract. 2 [t'nfl a cruel brute, barbarian, bully,
brooch n badge, clasp, clip, fasten- devil, lout, monster, ruffian, sadist,
ing. savage, swine.
brutish 46

brutish adj animal, barbaric, bar- bug n 1 > in s e c t , mic r o b e . 2 bug in a

barous, beastly, bestial, boorish, computer program, breakdown, defect,
brutal, coarse, cold-blooded, crude, error, failing, fault, flaw, inf grem-
cruel, inf gross, inhuman, insensi- lin, imperfection, malfunction, mis-
tive, loutish, mindless, savage, sense- take, inf snarl-up, virus. • vb
less, stupid, subhuman, uncouth, 1 intercept, interfere with, listen in
unintelligent, unthinking. Opp to, spy on, tap. 2 [si] Untidiness bugs
HUMANE. me. t> a n n o y .
bubble n air-pocket, blister, hollow, build vb assemble, construct, develop,
vesicle. • vb boil, effervesce, fizz, erect, fabricate, form, found, inf
fizzle, foam, froth, gurgle, seethe, knock together, make, put together,
sparkle, bubbles effervescence, fizz, put up, raise, rear, set up. build up >
foam, froth, head, lather, suds. INTENSIFY.
bubbly adj carbonated, effervescent, builder n bricklayer, construction
fizzy, foaming, seething, sparkling. > worker, labourer.
LIVELY.
building n construction, edifice, erec-
buccaneer n adventurer, bandit, tion, piece of architecture, inf pile,
brigand^ corsair, marauder, pirate, premises, structure. □ arcade, bam,
privateer, robber. barracks, basilica, boat-house, bungalow,
bucket n can, pail, scuttle, tub. cabin, castle, cathedral, chapel, chateau,
church, cinema, college, complex, cottage,
buckle n catch, clasp, clip, fastener,
dovecote,' factory, farmhouse, flats, fort,
fastening, hasp. • vb 1 clasp, clip, do
fortress, garage, gazebo, gymnasium,
up, fasten, hitch up, hook up, secure.
hall, hangar, hotel, house, inn, library,
2 bend, bulge, cave in, collapse, con-
lighthouse, mansion, mausoleum, mill,
tort, crumple, curve, dent, distort,
monastery, monument, mosque, museum,
fold, twist, warp. observatory, outbuilding, outhouse,
bud n shoot, sprout. • vb begin to pagoda, palace, pavilion, pier, power-
grow, burgeon, develop, shoot, station, prison, pub, public house, res-
sprout, budding > po t e n t ia l , pr o mis - taurant, school, shed, shop, silo, sky-
in g . scraper, stable, storehouse, studio,
budge vb 1 change position, give summer-house, synagogue, temple,
way, move, shift, stir, yield. 2 can’t theatre, tower, villa, warehouse, windmill.
budge him. alter, change, dislodge, bulb n 1 corm, tuber. □ amaryllis, blue-
influence, move, persuade, propel, bell, crocus, daffodil, freesia, hyacinth,
push, remove, shift, sway. lily, narcissus, snowdrop, tulip. 2 elec-
budget n accounts, allocation of tric bulb, lamp, light.
funds, allowance, estimate, financial bulbous adj bloated, bulging, con-
planning, funds, means, resources. vex, distended, ovoid, pear-shaped,
• vb allocate money, allot resources, pot-bellied, rotund, rounded, spher-
allow (for), estimate expenditure, ical, swollen, tuberous.
plan your spending, provide (for),
ration your spending. bulge n bump, distension, hump,
knob, lump, projection, protrusion,
buff n • vb burnish,
e n t h u s ia s t .
protuberance, rise, swelling. • vb
clean, polish, rub, shine, smooth. belly, billow, dilate, distend, enlarge,
buffer n bulwark, bumper, cushion, expand, project, protrude, stick out,
fender, pad, safeguard, screen, swell.
shield, shock-absorber.
bulk n 1 amplitude, bigness, body,
buffet n 1 bar, cafe, cafeteria, dimensions, extent, immensity,
counter, snack-bar. 2 a stand-up buffet. largeness, magnitude, mass, size,
> MEAL. • vb > HIT. substance, volume, weight. 2 the bulk
47 burial
of the work, inf best part, greater part, flock, gather, group, herd, huddle,
majority, preponderance. mass, pack. Opp d is pe r s e .
bulky adj awkward, chunky, cum- bundle n bag, bale, bunch, carton,
bersome, large, unwieldy. > b ig . collection, pack, package, packet,
bulletin n account, announcement, parcel, sheaf, truss. • vb bale, bind,
communication, communique, dis- enclose, fasten, pack, package, roll,
patch, message, newsflash, notice, tie, truss, wrap, bundle out > e je c t .
proclamation, report, statement. bung n cork, plug, stopper. • vb t>
bullion n bar, ingot, nugget, solid t hr ow.
gold, solid silver. bungle vb blunder, botch, si cock up,
bull’s-eye n bull, centre, mark, inf foul up, fluff, inf make a hash of,
middle, target. inf make a mess of, inf mess up, mis-
bully vb bludgeon, browbeat, coerce, manage, inf muck up, inf muff, ruin,
cow, domineer, frighten, harass, hec- inf screw up, spoil.
tor, intimidate, oppress, persecute, buoy n beacon, float, marker, moor-
inf pick on, inf push around, terror- ing buoy, signal. • vb buoy up >
ize, threaten, torment, tyrannize. RAISE.
bulwark n defence, earthwork, for- buoyant adj 1 floating, light. 2 a
tification, parapet, protection, ram- buoyant mood. t> c h e e r f u l .
part, redoubt, wall. > b a r r ie r .
burden n 1 cargo, encumbrance,
bump n 1 bang, blow, buffet, colli- load, weight. 2 burden of guilt, afflic-
sion, crash, knock, smash, thud, tion, albatross, anxiety, care, cross,
thump. 2 bulge, distension, hump, duty, handicap, millstone, obligation,
knob, lump, projection, protrusion, onus, problem, responsibility, sor-
protuberance, rise, swelling, tumes- row, trial, trouble, worry. • vb afflict,
cence, welt. • vb 1 bang, collide with, bother, encumber, hamper, handi-
crash into, jar, knock, ram, slam, cap, impose on, load (with), inf lum-
smash into, strike, thump, wallop. > ber (with), oppress, overload (with),
h it . 2 bounce, jerk, jolt, shake, bump inf saddle (with), strain, tax, trouble,
into > m e e t , bump off > k il l . weigh down, worry.
bumptious adj arrogant, inf big- burdensome adj bothersome, diffi-
headed, boastful, brash, inf cocky, cult, exacting, hard, heavy, onerous,
conceited, egotistic, forward, immod- oppressive, taxing, tiring, trouble-
est, officious, overbearing, over-con- some, trying, wearisome, wearying,
fident, pompous, presumptuous, weighty, worrying. Opp e a s y .
pretentious, inf pushy, self-assertive,
self-important, smug, inf snooty, inf bureau n 1 desk, writing-desk.
stuck-up, swaggering, vain, vain- 2 travel bureau, agency, counter,
glorious, vaunting. Opp m o d e s t . department, office, service.
bumpy adj 1 bouncy, jarring, jerky, bureaucracy n administration, gov-
jolting. 2 a bumpy road, broken, ir- ernment, officialdom, paperwork, inf
regular, jagged, knobbly, lumpy, red tape, regulations.
pitted, rocky, rough, rutted, stony, burglar n cat-burglar, housebreaker,
uneven. Opp s m o o t h . intruder, robber. > t h ie f .
bunch n 1 batch, bundle, clump, burglary n break-in, forcible entry,
cluster, collection, heap, lot, num- house-breaking, larceny, pilfering,
ber, pack, quantity, set, sheaf, tuft. robbeiy, stealing, theft, thieving.
2 bunch of flowers, bouquet, posy,
burgle vb break in, pilfer, rob.
spray. 3 [inj] bunch of friends, band,
> STEAL.
crowd, gang, gathering, mob, party,
team, troop. > g r o u p . • vb assemble, burial n entombment, funeral, inter-
cluster, collect, congregate, crowd, ment, obsequies.
burlesque 48

burlesque n caricature, imitation, bushy adj bristling, bristly, dense,

mockery, parody, pastiche, satire, inf fluffy, fuzzy, haiiy, luxuriant, rough,
send-up, spoof, inf take-off, travesty. shaggy, spreading, sticking out,
tangled, thick, thick-growing, un-
burly adj athletic, beefy, brawny,
heavy, hefty, hulking, husky, mus- ruly, untidy.
cular, powerful, stocky, stout, inf business n 1 affair, concern, duty,
strapping, strong, sturdy, thickset, function, issue, matter, obligation,
tough, well-built. Opp t h in . problem, question, responsibility,
burn n blister, charring. • vb 1 be
subject, task, topic. 2 calling, career,
alight, blaze, flame, flare, flash, craft, employment, industry, job, line
flicker, glow, smoke, smoulder, of work, occupation, profession, pur-
spark, sparkle. 2 carbonize, con- suit, trade, vocation, work. 3 buying
sume, cremate, destroy by fire, and selling, commerce, dealings,
ignite, incinerate, kindle, light, industry, marketing, merchandising,
reduce to ashes, set fire to, set on selling, trade, trading, transactions.
fire. 3 burn your skin, blister, brand, 4 company, concern, corporation,
char, scald, scorch, sear, shrivel, enterprise, establishment, firm, or-
singe, sting, toast. > f ir e , h e a t . ganization, inf outfit, partnership,
practice, inf set-up, venture.
burning adj 1 ablaze, afire, aflame,
alight,' blazing, flaming, glowing, businesslike adj careful, efficient,
incandescent, lit up, on fire, raging, hard-headed, logical, methodical,
smouldering. 2 burning pain, biting, neat, orderly, practical, professional,
blistering, boiling, fiery, hot, prompt, systematic, well-organized.
inflamed, scalding, scorching, sear- Opp DISORGANIZED.
ing, smarting, stinging. 3 burning businessman,
chemicals, acid, caustic, corrosive. 4 a businesswoman ns dealer, entre-
burning smell, acrid, pungent, reek- preneur, executive, financier, in-
ing, scorching, smoky. 5 a burning dustrialist, magnate, manager,
desire, acute, ardent, consuming, merchant, trader, tycoon.
eager, fervent, flaming, frenzied,
heated, impassioned, intense, pas- bustle n activity, agitation, commo-
sionate, red-hot, vehement. 6 a tion, excitement, flurry, fuss, haste,
burning issue, crucial, important, per- hurly-burly, hurry, hustle, move-
tinent, pressing, relevant, urgent, ment, restlessness, scurry, stir, inf
vital. to-do, inf toing and ffoing. • vb dart,
dash, fuss, hasten, hurry, hustle,
burrow n earth, excavation, hole, make haste, move busily, rush, scam-
retreat, set, shelter, tunnel, warren. per, scramble, scurry, scuttle, inf
• vb delve, dig, excavate, mine, tun- tear, whirl.
nel.
busy adj 1 active, assiduous, bustling
burst vb 1 break, crack, disintegrate, about, committed, dedicated, dili-
erupt, explode, force open, give way, gent, employed, energetic, engaged,
open suddenly, part suddenly, punc- engrossed, inf hard at it, immersed,
ture, rupture, shatter, split, tear. 2 > industrious, involved, keen, occu-
RUSH. pied, inf on the go, pottering, preoc-
bury vb cover, embed, enclose, cupied, slaving, inf tied up, tireless,
engulf, entomb, immerse, implant, inf up to your eyes, working. Opp id l e .
insert, inter, lay to rest, plant, put 2 busy shops, bustling, frantic, full,
away, secrete, sink, submerge. > hectic, lively.
HIDE.
busybody n gossip, meddler, inf
bus n old use charabanc, coach, Nosey Parker, scandalmonger,
double-decker, minibus, old use om- snooper, spy. be a busybody > in t e r -
nibus. f er e.
49 bystander
butt n 1 haft, handle, shaft, stock. plump, robust, rounded, voluptuous.
2 barrel, cask, water-butt. 3 cigar butt. Opp THIN.
end, remains, remnant, stub. 4 butt of buy vb acquire, come by, gain, get,
ridicule, end, mark, object, subject, get on hire purchase, inf invest in,
target, victim. • vb buffet, bump, jab, obtain, pay for, procure, purchase.
knock, poke, prod, punch, push, ram, Opp SELL.
shove, strike, thump. > h it . butt in >
buyer n client, consumer, customer,
INTERRUPT.
purchaser, shopper.
buttocks n vulg arse, backside, bypass vb avoid, circumvent, dodge,
behind, bottom, vulg bum, Amer butt, evade, find a way round, get out of,
Fr derriere, fundament, haunches, go round, ignore, neglect, omit, side-
hindquarters, Joe posterior, rear, step, skirt.
rump, seat.
by-product n adjunct, complement,
buttress n pier, prop, support. • vb consequence, corollary, repercussion,
brace, prop up, reinforce, shore up, result, side-effect.
strengthen, support. bystander n eyewitness, looker-on,
buxom adj ample, bosomy, vulg observer, onlooker, passer-by, spec-
chesty, full-figured, healthy-looking, tator, watcher, witness.
cabin n 1 bothy, chalet, cottage, hut,
c calamity n accident, affliction,
lodge, shack, shanty, shed, shelter. cataclysm, catastrophe, disaster,
2 cabin on a ship, berth, compart- misadventure, mischance, misfor-
ment, deck-house, quarters. tune, mishap, tragedy, tribulation.
cable n 1 chain, cord, flex, guy, calculate vb add up, ascertain,
hawser, lead, line, mooring, rope, assess, compute, count, determine,
wire. 2 news by cable, message, do sums, enumerate, estimate,
telegram, wire. evaluate, figure out, find out, gauge,
cacophonous adj atonal, dis- judge, reckon, total, value, weigh,
cordant, dissonant, harsh, noisy, work out. calculated > d e l ib e r a t e .
unmusical. Opp h a r m o n io u s . calculating t> c r a f t y .
cacophony n atonality, caterwaul- calibre n 1 bore, diameter, gauge,
ing, din, discord, disharmony, dis- measure, size. 2 ability, capability,
sonance, harshness, jangle, noise, capacity, character, competence, dis-
racket, row, rumpus, tumult. Opp tinction, excellence, genius, gifts,
HARMONY. importance, merit, proficiency, qual-
cadence n accent, beat, inflection, ity, skill, stature, talent, worth.
intonation, lilt, metre, pattern, call n 1 bellow, cry, exclamation,
rhythm, rise and fall, sound, stress, roar, scream, shout, yell. 2 bidding,
tune. invitation, signal, summons. 3 social
cadet n beginner, learner, recruit, call, stay, stop, visit. 4 no call for it.
tiro, trainee. cause, demand, excuse, justification,
cadge vb ask, beg, scrounge, sponge, need, occasion, request, require-
cafe n bar, bistro, brasserie, buffet, ment. • vb 1 bellow, clamour, cry
cafeteria, canteen, coffee bar, coffee out, exclaim, hail, roar, shout, yell.
house, coffee shop, diner, restaurant, 2 call on friends, drop in, socialize,
snack-bar, take-away, tea-room, tea- visit. 3 called her ‘Jane’, baptize, chris-
shop. ten, dub, name. 4 play called ‘Lear’.
cage n aviary, coop, enclosure, entitle, title. 5 call me at 7. arouse,
hutch, pen, pound. • vb > c o n f in e . awaken, get someone up, rouse,
cajole vb inf butter up, coax, flatter, wake, waken. 6 call a meeting, con-
inveigle, persuade, seduce. vene, gather, invite, order, summon.
cake n 1 bun, gateau. 2 cake of soap. 7 call by phone, contact, dial, phone,
bar, block, chunk, cube, loaf, lump, ring, telephone, call for > f e t c h ,
mass, piece, slab. • vb 1 coat, clog, r e q u e s t , call off > c a n c e l , call some-
cover, encrust, make dirty, make one names > in s u l t .
muddy. 2 coagulate, congeal, con- calligraphy n copperplate, hand-
solidate, dry, harden, solidify, writing, illumination, lettering, pen-
thicken. manship, script.
calamitous adj awful, cataclysmic, calling n business, career, employ-
catastrophic, deadly, devastating, ment, job, line of work, metier, occu-
dire, disastrous, distressful, dread- pation, profession, pursuit, trade,
ful, fatal, ghastly, ruinous, serious, vocation, work.
terrible, tragic, unfortunate, un- callous adj apathetic, cold, cold-
lucky, woeful. hearted, cool, dispassionate, hard-
 51 capacity
bitten, inf hard-boiled, hardened, canal n channel, waterway,
hard-hearted, inf hard-nosed, heart- cancel vb abandon, abolish, abort,
less, inhuman, insensitive, merciless, abrogate, annul, call off, counter-
pitiless, ruthless, inf thick-skinned, mand, cross out, delete, drop, elim-
uncaring, unconcerned, unemo- inate, erase, expunge, frank (stamps),
tional, unfeeling, unsympathetic. i> give up, invalidate, override, over-
CRUEL. Opp SENSITIVE. rule, postpone, quash, repeal, repu-
callow adj adolescent, inf bom yes- diate, rescind, revoke, scrap, inf
terday, inf green, immature, inex- scrub, wipe out, write off. cancel
perienced, innocent, juvenile, out l> NEUTRALIZE.
naive, raw, unsophisticated, inf wet cancer n canker, carcinoma, growth,
behind the ears, young. Opp ma t u r e . malignancy, melanoma, tumour.
calm adj 1 airless, even, flat, glassy, candid adj blunt, direct, fair, forth-
poet halcyon (days), like a millpond, right, frank, honest, ingen-uous, just,
motionless, placid, quiet, slow- inf no-nonsense, objective, open, out-
moving, smooth, still, unclouded, spoken, plain, sincere, straight,
unwrinkled, windless. 2 collected, straightforward, transparent, true,
derog complacent, composed, con- truthful, unbiased, undisguised,
trolled, cool, dispassionate, equable, unequivocal, unflattering, unpreju-
impassive, imperturbable, inf laid- diced. Opp INSINCERE.
back, level-headed, moderate, pacific, candidate n applicant, aspirant,
passionless, patient, peaceful, poised, competitor, contender, contestant,
quiet, relaxed, restful, restrained, entrant, nominee, inf possibility, pre-
sedate, self-possessed, sensible, tender (to throne), runner, suitor,
serene, tranquil, undemonstrative, cane n bamboo, rod, stick. • vb >
unemotional, unexcitable, inf un- THRASH.
flappable, unhurried, unperturbed, canoe n dug-out, kayak,
unruffled, untroubled. Opp e x c it a b l e , canopy n awning, cover, covering,
s t o r my . • n flat sea, peace, quietness, shade, shelter, umbrella.
stillness, tranquillity. i> c a l mn e s s . • vb canvass n campaign, census,
appease, compose, control, cool, lull, enquiiy, examination, investigation,
mollify, pacify, placate, quieten, market research, opinion poll, poll,
sedate, settle down, smooth, sober probe, scrutiny, survey. • vb ask for,
down, soothe, tranquillize. Opp d is - campaign, inf drum up support, elec-
t u r b. tioneer, seek, solicit.
calmness n derog complacency, canyon n defile, gap, gorge, gulch,
composure, equability, equanimity, pass, ravine, valley.
imperturbability, level-headedness, cap n covering, lid, top. i> h a t . • vb >
peace of mind, sang-froid, self-pos- COVER.
session, serenity, inf unflappability. capable adj able, accomplished,
Opp a n x ie t y , e x c it e me n t . adept, clever, competent, effective,
camouflage n blind, cloak, con- effectual, efficient, experienced,
cealment, cover, disguise, facade, expert, gifted, in/handy, intelligent,
front, guise, mask, pretence, pro- masterly, practised, proficient, qual-
tective colouring, screen, veil. • vb ified, skilful, skilled, talented,
cloak, conceal, cover up, disguise, trained. Opp in c a pa b l e , capable of apt
hide, mask, obscure, screen, veil. to, disposed to, equal to, liable to.
camp n bivouac, camping-ground, capacity n 1 content, dimensions,
campsite, encampment, settlement, magnitude, room, size, volume.
campaign n action, battle, crusade, 2 ability, acumen, capability, clever-
drive, effort, fight, manoeuvre, move- ness, competence, intelligence,
ment, offensive, operation, push, potential, power, skill, talent, wit.
struggle, war. 3 in an official capacity, appointment,
campus n grounds, setting, site. duty, function, job, office, place, posi-
cape 52

tion, post, province, responsibility, vict, detainee, hostage, internee,

role. prisoner, slave.
cape n 1 cloak, coat, cope, mantle, captivity n bondage, confinement,
robe, shawl, wrap. 2 head, headland, custody, detention, duress, impris-
peninsula, point, promontory. onment, incarceration, internment,
caper vb bound, cavort, dance, frisk, protective custody, remand, re-
frolic, gambol, hop, jig about, jump, straint, servitude, slavery. t> pr is o n .
leap, play, prance, romp, skip, spring, Opp f r e e d o m .
capital adj 1 chief, controlling, first, capture n apprehension, arrest,
foremost, important, leading, main, seizure. • vb apprehend, arrest, inf
paramount, pre-eminent, primary, bag, bind, catch, inf collar, comer,
principal. 2 capital, letters, big, block, ensnare, entrap, inf get, inf nab, net,
initial, large, upper-case. 3 > e x c e l - inf nick, overpower, secure, seize,
l e n t . • n 1 chief city, centre of gov- snare, take prisoner, trap. > c o n q u e r .
ernment. 2 assets, cash, finance, Opp LIBERATE.
funds, investments, money, prin- car n automobile, inf banger, joc bus,
cipal, property, si (the) ready, joc jalopy, motor, motor car, si
resources, riches, savings, stock, wheels. □ cab, convertible, coupe, Dor-
wealth,.inf the wherewithal. mobile, estate, fastback, hatchback, jeep,
capitulate vb acquiesce, be Land Rover, limousine, Mini, panda car,
defeated, concede, desist, fall, give patrol car, police car, saloon, shooting
in, relent, submit, succumb, surren- brake, sports car, taxi, tourer. > v e h ic l e .
der, inf throw in the towel, yield. carcass n 1 body, cadaver, corpse,
capricious adj changeable, erratic, meat, remains. 2 carcass of a car.
fanciful, fickle, fitful, flighty, impuls- framework, hulk, remains, shell,
ive, inconstant, mercurial, moody, skeleton, structure.
quirky, uncertain, unpredictable, card n cardboard, pasteboard. □ bank
unreliable, unstable, variable, way- card, birthday card, business card, calling
ward, whimsical. Opp s t e a d y . card, credit card, get-well card, greetings
capsize vb flip over, invert, keel card, identity card, invitation, member-
over, overturn, tip over, turn over, inf ship card, notelet, picture postcard, play-
turn turtle, turn upside down. ing-card, postcard, union card, Valentine,
capsule n lozenge, medicine, pill, visiting card.
tablet. care n 1 attention, carefulness, cau-
captain n 1 boss, chief, head, leader. tion, circumspection, concentration,
2 commander, master, officer in concern, diligence, exactness, fore-
charge, pilot, skipper. thought, heed, interest, meticulous-
caption n description, explanation, ness, pains,' prudence, solicitude,
heading, headline, superscription, thoroughness, thought, vigilance,
title. watchfulness. 2 anxiety, burden, con-
captivate vb attract, beguile, cern, difficulty, hardship, problem,
bewitch, charm, delight, enamour, responsibility, sorrow, stress, tribu-
enchant, enrapture, enslave, en- lation, vexation, woe, worry. t>
snare, enthral, entrance, fascinate, t r o u b l e . 3 left in my care, charge, con-
hypnotize, infatuate, mesmerize, trol, custody, guardianship, keeping,
seduce, inf steal your heart, inf turn management, protection, safe-keep-
your head, win. Opp d is g u s t . ing, ward. • vb be troubled, bother,
captive adj caged, captured, concern yourself, mind, worry, care
chained, confined, detained, en- for > LOVE, TEND.
slaved, ensnared, fettered, gaoled, career n business, calling, craft,
imprisoned, incarcerated, jailed, employment, job, livelihood, living,
restricted, secure, taken prisoner, inf metier, occupation, profession, trade,
under lock and key. Opp f r e e . • n con- vocation, work. • vb > r u s h .
 53
cartridge
carefree adj 1 blase, casual, cheery, caricature n burlesque, cartoon,
contented, debonair, easy, easy- parody, satire, inf send-up, spoof, inf
going, happy-go-lucky, indifferent, take-off, travesty. • vb burlesque, dis-
insouciant, inf laid-back, light- tort, exaggerate, imitate, lampoon,
hearted, nonchalant, relaxed, uncon- make fun of, mimic, mock, overact,
cerned, unworried. > h a ppy . 2 carefree overdo, parody, ridicule, satirize, inf
holiday, leisured, peaceful, quiet, send up, inf take off.
relaxing, restful, trouble-free, un- caring n concern, kindness, nursing,
troubled. Opp ANXIOUS. solicitude.
careful adj 1 alert, attentive, cau- carnage n blood-bath, bloodshed,
tious, chary, circumspect, heedful, butchery, havoc, holocaust, kill-
mindful, observant, prudent, soli- ing, massacre, pogrom, shambles,
citous, thoughtful, vigilant, wary, slaughter.
watchful. 2 careful work, accurate, carnal adj animal, bodily, erotic,
conscientious, deliberate, diligent, fleshly, natural, physical, sensual,
exhaustive, fastidious, derog fussy, sexual. t> LUSTFUL. Opp SPIRITUAL.
judicious, methodical, meticulous, carnival n celebration, fair, festival,
neat, orderly, organized, painstak- festivity, fete, fiesta, fun and games,
ing, particular, precise, punctilious, gala, jamboree, merrymaking,
responsible, rigorous, scrupulous, pageant, parade, procession, revelry,
systematic, thorough, well-organ- show, spectacle.
ized. Opp c a r e l e s s , be careful t> carp vb cavil, find fault, inf go on, inf
BEWARE. gripe, grumble, object, pick holes,
careless adj 1 absent-minded, heed- quibble, inf split hairs, whinge.
less, ill-considered, imprudent, in- t> COMPLAIN.
attentive, incautious, inconsider- carpentry n joinery, woodwork,
ate, irresponsible, negligent, rash, carriage n 1 coach. t> v e h ic l e . 2 bear-
reckless, thoughtless, uncaring, ing, comportment, demeanour, gait,
unguarded, unthinking, unwary. manner, mien, posture, presence,
2 careless work, casual, confused, cur- stance.
sory, disorganized, hasty, imprecise, carrier n 1 bearer, conveyor, courier,
inaccurate, jumbled, messy, per- delivery-man, delivery-woman, dis-
functory, scatter-brained, shoddy, patch rider, errand-boy, errand-girl,
slapdash, slipshod, inf sloppy, haulier, messenger, porter, postman,
slovenly, thoughtless, untidy. Opp runner. 2 carrier of a disease, contact,
CAREFUL. host, transmitter.
carelessness n haste, inattention, carry vb 1 bring, inf cart, communi-
irresponsibility, negligence, reck- cate, ferry, fetch, haul, lead, lift, inf
lessness, in/sloppiness, slovenliness, lug, manhandle, move, relay,
thoughtlessness, untidiness. Opp remove, ship, shoulder, take, trans-
CARE. fer, transmit, transport. t> c o n v e y .
2 carry weight, bear, hold up, main-
caress vb cuddle, embrace, fondle,
tain, support. 3 carry a penalty.
hug, kiss, make love to, si neck with, demand, entail, involve, lead to, occa-
nuzzle, pat, pet, rub against, smooth, sion, require, result in. carry on >
stroke, touch. c o n t in u e , carry out > d o .
caretaker n custodian, janitor, cart n barrow, dray, truck, wagon,
keeper, porter, superintendent, war- wheelbarrow. • vb t> c a r r y .
den, watchman. carton n box, cartridge, case, con-
careworn adj gaunt, grim, haggard. tainer, pack, package, packet.
> WEARY. cartoon n animation, caricature,
cargo n consignment, freight, goods, comic strip, drawing, sketch.
lading (bill of lading), load, mer- cartridge n 1 canister, capsule, case,
chandise, payload, shipment. cassette, container, cylinder, tube.
carve 54

2 cartridge for a gun. magazine, casual adj 1 accidental, chance,

round, shell. erratic, fortuitous, incidental, ir-
carve vb 1 slice. > c u t . 2 carve stone, regular, promiscuous, random,
inf chip away at, chisel, engrave, fash- serendipitous, sporadic, unexpected,
ion, hew, incise, sculpture, shape. unforeseen, unintentional, un-
cascade n cataract, deluge, flood, planned, unpremeditated, unstruc-
gush, torrent, waterfall. • vb> po u r . tured, unsystematic. Opp d e l ib e r a t e .
2 casual attitude, apathetic, blase,
case n 1 box, cabinet, carton, casket,
chest, container, crate, pack, pack- careless, inf couldn’t-care-less, easy-
aging, suitcase, trunk. > l u g g a g e . going, inf free-and-easy, lackadaisical,
2 case of mistaken identity, example,
inf laid-back, lax, negligent, noncha-
illustration, instance, occurrence, lant, offhand, relaxed, inf slap-happy,
specimen, state of affairs. 3 rules don’t inf throwaway, unconcerned, unen-
apply in his case, circumstances, con- thusiastic, unimportant, unprofes-
dition, context, plight, predicament, sional. Opp e n t h u s ia s t ic . 3 casual
situation, state. 4 a legal case, action, clothes, comfortable, informal. Opp
argument, cause, dispute, inquiry, FORMAL.
investigation, lawsuit, suit. casualty n dead person, death, fatal-
cash n banknotes, bills, change,
ity, injured person, injury, loss, vic-
tim, wounded person.
coins, .currency, inf dough, funds,
hard money, legal tender, money, cat n kitten, inf moggy, inf pussy,
notes, inf (the) ready, inf the where- tabby, tom, tomcat.
withal. • vb exchange for cash, real- catacomb n crypt, sepulchre, tomb,
ize, sell, cash in on > pr o f it . underground passage, vault.
cashier n accountant, banker, catalogue n brochure, directory,
check-out person, clerk, teller, treas- index, inventory, list, record, regis-
urer. • vb > DISMISS. ter, roll, schedule, table. • vb clas-
cask n barrel, butt, hogshead, tub,
sify, codify, file, index, list, make an
inventory of, record, register, tabu-
tun, vat.
late.
cast n 1 > s c u l pt u r e . 2 cast of a play.
catapult vb fire, fling, hurl, launch.
characters, company, dramatis per-
> THROW.
sonae, performers, players, troupe.
cataract n cascade, falls, rapids, tor-
• vb 1 bowl, chuck, drop, fling, hurl,
rent, waterfall.
impel, launch, lob, pelt, pitch, pro-
ject, scatter, shy, sling, throw, toss. catastrophe n blow, calamity, cata-
2 cast a sculpture, form, found, mould, clysm, crushing blow, debacle, dev-
shape. > s c u l pt u r e , cast off > s h e d , astation, disaster, fiasco, holocaust,
UNTIE. mischance, mishap, ruin, ruination,
tragedy, upheaval. > m is f o r t u n e .
castaway adj abandoned, deserted,
catch n 1 bag, booty, capture, haul,
exiled, marooned, rejected, ship-
wrecked, stranded. net, prey, prize, take. 2 suspected a
catch, difficulty, disadvantage, draw-
caste n class, degree, estate, grade,
back, obstacle, problem, snag, trap,
level, position, rank, standing, sta-
trick. 3 catch on a door, bolt, clasp,
tion, status, stratum.
clip, fastener, fastening, hasp, hook,
castigate vb censure, chasten, chas- latch, lock. • vb 1 clutch, ensnare,
tise, old use chide, correct, discipline, entrap, grab, grasp, grip, hang on to,
lash, punish, rebuke, reprimand, hold, hook, net, seize, snare, snatch,
scold, inf tell off. > c r it ic iz e . take, tangle, trap. 2 catch a thief.
castle n chateau, citadel, fort, apprehend, arrest, capture, inf cop,
fortress, mansion, palace, stately corner, detect, discover, expose,
home, stronghold, tower. intercept, inf nab, inf nobble, stop,
castrate vb emasculate, geld, surprise, take by surprise, unmask.
neuter, spay, sterilize, unsex. 3 caught me unawares, come upon, dis-
55 ceaseless
cover, find, surprise. 4 catch a bus. be occasion, precipitate, produce, pro-
in time for, get on. 5 catch a cold. voke, result in, set off, spark off,
become infected by, contract, get. stimulate, trigger off, inf whip up.
catch on t> s u c c e e d , u n d e r s t a n d . 2 compel, force, induce, motivate.
catch-phrase s a y in g , catch-22 caustic adj 1 acid, astringent, burn-
DILEMMA, catch Up t> OVERTAKE. ing, corrosive, destructive. 2 caustic
catching adj communicable, conta- criticism, acidulous, acrimonious, bit-
gious, infectious, spreading, trans- ing, bitter, critical, cutting, mordant,
missible, transmittable. pungent, sarcastic, scathing, severe,
catchy adj attractive, haunting, sharp, stinging, trenchant, virulent,
memorable, popular, singable, tune- waspish. Opp mil d .
ful. caution n 1 alertness, attentiveness,
categorical adj absolute, author- care, carefulness, circumspection,
itative, certain, complete, decided, discretion, forethought, heed, heed-
decisive, definite, direct, dogmatic, fulness, prudence, vigilance, wari-
downright, emphatic, explicit, ness, watchfulness. 2 let off with a
express, firm, forceful, inf out-and- caution, admonition, caveat, inf dress-
out, positive, strong, total, unam- ing-down, injunction, reprimand, inf
biguous, unconditional, unequivocal, talkingto, inf ticking-off, warning.
unmitigated, unqualified, unre- • vb 1 advise, alert, counsel, fore-
served, utter, vigorous. Opp t e n t a t iv e . warn, inform, inf tip off, warn. 2 cau-
category n class, classification, divi- tioned by the police, admonish,
sion, grade, group, head, heading, censure, give a warning, reprehend,
kind, order, rank, ranking, section, reprimand, inf tell off, inf tick off.
sector, set, sort, type, variety. cautious adj 1 alert, attentive, care-
cater vb cook, make arrangements, ful, heedful, prudent, scrupulous,
minister, provide, provision, serve, vigilant, watchful. 2 cautious com-
supply. ments. inf cagey, calculating, chaiy,
catholic adj all-embracing, all in- circumspect, deliberate, discreet, gin-
clusive, broad, broad-minded, com- gerly, grudging, guarded, hesitant,
prehensive, cosmopolitan, eclectic, judicious, non-committal, restrained,
general, liberal, universal, varied, suspicious, tactful, tentative, unad-
wide, wide-ranging. venturous, wary, watchful. Opp r e c k -
cattle plur n beef, bullocks, bulls, l ess.
calves, cows, heifers, livestock, oxen, cavalcade n march-past, parade,
steers, stock. procession, spectacle, troop.
catty adj inf bitchy, ill-natured, cave n cavern, cavity, den, grotto,
malevolent, malicious, mean, nasty, hole, pothole, underground cham-
rancorous, sly, spiteful, venomous, ber. • vb cave in t> c o l l a ps e , s u r r e n -
vicious. t> UNKIND. Opp KIND. d er .
cause n 1 basis, beginning, genesis,
cavity n cave, crater, dent, hole, hol-
grounds, motivation, motive, occa-
low, pit.
sion, origin, reason, root, source,
spring, stimulus. 2 agent, author, old cease vb break off, call a halt, con-
use begetter, creator, initiator, in- clude, cut off, desist, discontinue,
spiration, inventor, originator, pro- end, finish, halt, inf kick (a habit), inf
ducer. 3 cause of his lateness, excuse, knock off, inf lay off, leave off, inf
explanation, pretext, reason. 4 a good pack in, inf pack up, refrain, stop,
cause, aim, belief, concern, end, ideal, terminate. Opp b e g in .
object, purpose, undertaking. • vb ceaseless adj chronic, constant,
1 arouse, awaken, begin, bring continual, continuous, endless, ever-
about, bring on, create, effect, effec- lasting, incessant, interminable,
tuate, engender, foment, generate, never-ending, non-stop, permanent,
give rise to, incite, kindle, lead to, perpetual, persistent, relentless,
celebrate 56

unending, unremitting, untiring. Opp criticism, denunciation, diatribe,

INTERMITTENT, TEMPORARY. disapproval, inf dressing-down,
celebrate vb 1 be happy, have a cel- harangue, rebuke, reprimand, re-
ebration, let yourself go, inf live it proach, reprobation, reproof, inf slat-
up, make merry, inf paint the town ing, stricture, inf talking-to, inf
red, rejoice, revel, old use wassail. telling-off, tirade, verbal attack, vitu-
2 celebrate an anniversary, commem- peration. • vb admonish, berate,
orate, hold, honour, keep, observe, blame, inf carpet, castigate, caution,
remember. 3 celebrate a wedding, offi- chide, condemn, criticize, denounce,
ciate at, solemnize, celebrated t> lecture, rebuke, reproach, reprove,
FAMOUS. scold, take to task, si tear (someone)
celebration n banquet, binge, car- off a strip, inf tell off, inf tick off,
nival, commemoration, feast, festiv- upbraid.
ity, inf jamboree, joe jollification, census n count, survey, tally,
merry-making, observance, inf orgy, central adj 1 focal, inner, innermost,
party, in/rave-up, reveliy, church ser- interior, medial, middle. 2 central
vice, inf shindig, solemnization. facts, chief, crucial, essential, funda-
□ anniversary, birthday, festival, fete, mental, important, key, main, major,
gala, jubilee, remembrance, reunion, overriding, pivotal, primary, prin-
weddihg. cipal, Vital. Opp PERIPHERAL.
celebrity n 1 > f a me . 2 big name, inf centralize vb amalgamate, bring
bigwig, dignitary, famous person, together, concentrate, rationalize,
idol, ■ notability, personality, public streamline, unify. Opp d is pe r s e .
figure, star, superstar, VIP, worthy. centre n bull’s-eye, core, focal point,
celestial adj 1 astronomical, cos- focus, heart, hub, inside, interior,
mic, galactic, interplanetary, inter- kernel, middle, mid-point, nucleus,
stellar, starry, stellar, universal. pivot. Opp pe r ime t e r . • vb concentrate,
2 celestial beings, angelic, blissful, converge, focus.
divine, ethereal, godlike, heavenly, centrifugal adj dispersing, diverg-
seraphic, spiritual, sublime, super- ing, moving outwards, scattering,
natural, transcendental, visionary. spreading. Opp c e n t r ipe t a l .
celibacy n bachelorhood, chastity, centripetal adj converging. Opp c e n -
continence, purity, self-restraint, t r if u g a l .
spinsterhood, virginity. cereal n com, grain. □ barley, com on
celibate adj abstinent, chaste, con- the cob, maize, millet, oats, rice, rye,
tinent, immaculate, single, unmar- sweet com, wheat.
ried, unwedded, virgin. • n bachelor, ceremonial adj celebratory, digni-
spinster, virgin. fied, liturgical, majestic, official, rit-
cell n cavity, chamber, compartment, ual, ritualistic, solemn, stately. >
cubicle, den, enclosure, living space, FORMAL. Opp INFORMAL.
prison, room, space, unit. ceremonious adj civil, courteous,
cellar n basement, crypt, vault, wine- courtly, dignified, formal, grand,
cellar. derog pompous, proper, punctilious,
cemetery n burial-ground, church- derog starchy. > po l it e . Opp c a s u a l .
yard, graveyard, necropolis. ceremony n 1 celebration, com-
censor vb amend, ban, bowdlerize, memoration, inf do, event, formal
inf clean up, cut, edit, exclude, ex- occasion, function, occasion, parade,
puigate, forbid, prohibit, remove. reception, rite, ritual, service, so-
censorious adj fault-finding, inf lemnity. 2 ceremonial, decorum,
holier-than-thou, judgemental, etiquette, formality, grandeur,
moralistic, Pharisaical, selfrighteous. pageantiy, pomp, pomp and circum-
> CRITICAL. stance, protocol, ritual, spectacle.
censure n accusation, admonition, certain adj 1 adamant, assured, con-
blame, castigation, condemnation, fident, constant, convinced, decided,
57 chancy
determined, firm, invariable, pos- chair n armchair, carver, deckchair,
itive, resolved, satisfied, settled, dining-chair, easy chair, recliner,
stable, steady, sure, undoubting, rocking-chair, throne. > s e a t . • vb >
unshakable, unwavering. 2 certain PRESIDE.
proof, absolute, authenticated, cat- chairperson n chair, chairman,
egorical, certified, clear, clear-cut, chairwoman, convenor, director,
conclusive, convincing, definite, leader, moderator, organizer, pres-
dependable, established, genuine, ident, speaker.
guaranteed, incontestable, incontro- challenge vb 1 accost, confront, inf
vertible, indubitable, infallible, have a go at, take on, tax. 2 challenge
irrefutable, known, official, plain, to duel, dare, defy, old use demand sat-
reliable, settled, sure, true, trust- isfaction, provoke, summon. 3 chal-
worthy, unarguable, undeniable, lenge a decision, argue against, call in
undisputed, undoubted, unmistak- doubt, contest, dispute, dissent from,
able, unquestionable, valid, verifi- impugn, object to, oppose, protest
able. 3 certain disaster, destined, fated, against, queiy, question, take excep-
guaranteed, imminent, inescapable, tion to.
inevitable, inexorable, predestined, challenging adj inspiring, stimu-
predictable, unavoidable. 4 certain to lating, testing, thought-provoking,
pay up. bound, compelled, obliged, worthwhile. > d if f ic u l t . Opp e a s y .
required, sure. 5 certain people, indi- chamber n cavity, cell, compart-
vidual, particular, some, specific, ment, niche, nook, space. > r o o m .
unnamed, unspecified. Opp u n c e r t a in . champion adj great, leading, record-
be certain > k n o w , for certain > breaking, supreme, top, unrivalled,
d e f in it e l y , make certain > e n s u r e . victorious, winning, world-beating.
certainty n 1 actuality, certain fact, • n 1 conqueror, hero, medallist,
inf foregone conclusion, foreseeable prize-winner, record-breaker, super-
outcome, inevitability, necessity, inf man, superwoman, titleholder, vic-
sure thing. 2 assertiveness, assur- tor, winner. 2 champion of the poor.
ance, authority, certitude, confi- backer, defender, guardian, patron,
dence, conviction, knowledge, protector, supporter, upholder, vin-
positiveness, proof, sureness, truth, dicator. 3 [old use] champion in lists.
validity. Opp d o u b t . challenger, contender, contestant,
certificate n authorization, award, fighter, knight, warrior. • vb > s u p-
credentials, degree, diploma, docu- po r t .
ment, guarantee, licence, pass, per- championship n competition, con-
mit, qualification, warrant. test, series, tournament.
certify vb 1 affirm, asseverate, attest, chance adj accidental, adventitious,
authenticate, aver, avow, bear wit- casual, coincidental, inf fluky, fortu-
ness, confirm, declare, endorse, guar- itous, fortunate, haphazard, inad-
antee, notify, sign, swear, testify, vertent, incidental, lucky, random,
verify, vouch, vouchsafe, warrant, unexpected, unforeseen, unfor-
witness. 2 certify as competent, au- tunate, unlooked-for, unplanned,
thorize, charter, commission, fran- unpremeditated. Opp d e l ib e r a t e . • n
chise, license, recognize, validate. 1 accident, coincidence, destiny, fate,
chain n 1 bonds, coupling, fetters, fluke, fortune, gamble, hazard, luck,
handcuffs, irons, links, manacles, misfortune, serendipity. 2 chance of
shackles. 2 chain of events, column, rain, danger, liability, likelihood,
combination, concatenation, cordon, possibility, probability, prospect,
line, progression, row, sequence, risk. 3 occasion, opportunity, time,
series, set, string, succession, train. turn. • vb 1 > r is k . 2 > h a ppe n .
• vb bind, clap in irons, fetter, hand- chancy adj dangerous, inf dicey, inf
cuff, link, manacle, shackle, tether, dodgy, hazardous, inf iffy, insecure,
tie. > FASTEN. precarious, risky, speculative, tick-
change 58

lish, tricky, uncertain, unpredictable, • vb conduct, convey, direct, guide,

unsafe. Opp s a f e . lead, pass on, route, send, transmit,
change n 1 adaptation, adjustment, chant n hymn, plainsong, psalm.
alteration, break, conversion, deteri- > s o n g . • vb intone. > s in g .
oration, development, difference, chaos n anarchy, bedlam, confusion,
diversion, improvement, innova- disorder, disorganization, lawless-
tion, metamorphosis, modification, ness, mayhem, muddle, pande-
modulation, mutation, new look, monium, shambles, tumult, tur-
rearrangement, refinement, re- moil. Opp ORDER.
formation, reorganization, revolu- chaotic adj anarchic, confused,
tion, shift, substitution, swing, deranged, disordered, disorderly, dis-
transfiguration, transformation, organized, haphazard, inf haywire,
transition, translation, transmogri- inf higgledy-piggledy, jumbled, law-
fication, transmutation, transposi- less, muddled, rebellious, riotous, inf
tion, inf turn-about, U-tum, shambolic, inf topsy-turvy, tumul-
variation, variety, vicissitude. 2 small tuous, uncontrolled, ungovernable,
change. > c a s h . • vb 1 acclimatize, unruly, untidy, inf upside-down. Opp
accommodate, accustom, adapt, ORDERLY.
adjust^ affect, alter, amend, convert,
diversify, influence, modify, process, char vb blacken, brown, bum, car-
rearrange, reconstruct, refashion, bonize, scorch, sear, singe.
reform, remodel, reorganize, character n 1 distinctiveness,
reshape, restyle, tailor, transfigure, flavour, idiosyncrasy, individuality,
transform, translate, transmogrify, integrity, peculiarity, quality, stamp,
transmute, vary. 2 opinions change. taste, uniqueness. > c h a r a c t e r is t ic .
alter, be transformed, inf chop and 2 a forceful character, attitude, consti-
change, develop, fluctuate, meta- tution, disposition, individuality,
morphose, move on, mutate, shift, make-up, manner, nature, personal-
vary. 3 change one thing for another. ity, reputation, temper, tempera-
alternate, displace, exchange, ment. 3 a famous character, figure,
replace, substitute, switch, swop, human being, individual, person,
transpose. 4 change money, barter, personality, inf type. 4 She’s a charac-
convert, trade in. change into > ter! inf case, comedian, comic, ec-
b e c o me , change someone’s mind > centric, inf nut-case, oddity, derog
c o n v e r t , change your mind > r e c o n - weirdo. 5 character in a play, part, per-
s id e r . sona, portrayal, role. 6 written char-
changeable adj capricious, acters. cipher, figure, hieroglyphic,
chequered (career), erratic, fickle, fit- ideogram, letter, mark, rune, sign,
ful, fluctuating, fluid, inconsistent, symbol, type.
inconstant, irregular, mercurial, characteristic adj 1 [of an indi-
mutable, protean, shifting, tempera- vidual] distinctive, distinguishing, es-
mental, uncertain, unpredictable, sential, idiosyncratic, individual,
unreliable, unsettled, unstable, particular, peculiar, recognizable,
unsteady, inf up and down, vacillat- singular, special, specific, sympto-
ing, variable, varying, volatile, waver- matic, unique. 2 [of a kind] repres-
ing. Opp CONSTANT. entative, typical. • n attribute,
channel n 1 aqueduct, canal, con- distinguishing feature, feature, hall-
duit, course, dike, ditch, duct, mark, idiosyncrasy, mark, peculiar-
groove, gully, gutter, moat, overflow, ity, property, quality, symptom, trait,
pipe, sluice, sound, strait, trench, characterize vb brand, delineate,
trough, watercourse, waterway. > depict, describe, differentiate, dis-
s t r e a m . 2 avenue, means, medium, tinguish, draw, identify, individu-
path, route, way. 3 TV channel, inf alize, mark, portray, present,
side, station, waveband, wavelength. recognize, typify.
59 cheap
charade n absurdity, deceit, decep- tivate, cast a spell on, decoy, delight,
tion, fabrication, farce, make-believe, disarm, enchant, enrapture, enthral,
masquerade, mockery, inf play-act- entrance, fascinate, hold spellbound,
ing, pose, pretence, inf put-up job, hypnotize, intrigue, lure, mesmer-
sham. ize, please, seduce, soothe, win over,
charge n 1 cost, expenditure, charming > ATTRACTIVE.
expense, fare, fee, payment, postage, chart n diagram, graph, map, plan,
price, rate, terms, toll, value. 2 in my sketch-map, table.
charge, care, command, control, cus- charter vb 1 employ, engage, hire,
tody, guardianship, jurisdiction, lease, rent. 2 > c e r t if y .
keeping, protection, responsibility, chase vb drive, follow, go after,
safe-keeping, supervision, trust. hound, hunt, pursue, run after,
3 criminal charges, accusation, allega- track, trail.
tion, imputa-tion, indictment. 4 cav- chasm n abyss, canyon, cleft, crater,
alry charge, action, assault, attack, crevasse, drop, fissure, gap, gulf,
drive, incursion, invasion, offensive, hole, hollow, opening, pit, ravine,
onslaught, raid, rush, sally, sortie, rift, split, void.
strike. • vb 1 ask for, debit, exact, chaste adj 1 abstinent, celibate, inf
levy, make you pay, require. clean, continent, good, immaculate,
2 accuse, blame, impeach, indict, inexperienced, innocent, moral,
prosecute, tax. 3 charge with a duty. pure, sinless, uncorrupted, undefiled,
burden, commit, empower, entrust, unmarried, virgin, virginal, virtuous.
give, impose on. 4 charged us to do Opp immo r a l 2 chaste dress, austere,
our best, ask, command, direct, becoming, decent, decorous, maid-
enjoin, exhort, instruct. 5 charge an enly, modest, plain, restrained,
enemy, assail, assault, attack, inf fall severe, simple, tasteful, unadorned.
on, rush, set on, storm, inf wade into, Opp in d e c e n t .
charitable adj bountiful, generous, chasten vb 1 restrain, subdue.
humanitarian, liberal, munificent, > HUMILIATE. 2 > CHASTISE.
open-handed, philanthropic, unspar- chastise vb castigate, chasten, cor-
ing. > KIND. Opp MEAN. rect, discipline, penalize, rebuke,
charity n 1 affection, altruism, scold. > PUNISH, REPRIMAND.
benevolence, bounty, caring, com- chastity n abstinence, celibacy, con-
passion, consideration, generosity, tinence, innocence, integrity, maid-
goodness, helpfulness, humanity, enhood, morality, purity, restraint,
kindness, love, mercy, philanthropy, sinlessness, virginity, virtue. Opp l u s t .
self-sacrifice, sympathy, tender-heart- chat n chatter, inf chin-wag, inf chit-
edness, unselfishness, warm-heart- chat, conversation, gossip, in/heart-
edness. 2 old use alms, alms-giving, to-heart. • vb chatter, converse,
bounty, donation, financial support, gossip, inf natter, prattle. > t a l k .
gift, inf handout, largesse, offering, chat up > woo.
patronage, poor relief. 3 good cause, chauvinist n bigot, inf MCP (= male
the needy, the poor. chauvinist pig), patriot, sexist, xeno-
charm n 1 allure, appeal, attractive- phobe.
ness, charisma, fascination, hypnotic cheap adj 1 bargain, budget, cut-
power, lovable nature, lure, magic, price, inf dirt-cheap, discount, eco-
magnetism, power, pull, seductive- nomical, economy, fair, inexpensive,
ness. > b e a u t y . 2 magic charm, curse, inf knock-down, low-priced, reason-
enchantment, incantation, magic, able, reduced, inf rockbottom, sale,
mumbo-jumbo, sorcery, spell, witch- under-priced. 2 cheap quality, base,
craft, wizardry. 3 charm on a bracelet. inferior, poor, second-rate, shoddy,
amulet, lucky charm, mascot, orna- inf tatty, tawdry, inf tinny, inf trashy,
ment, talisman, trinket. • vb allure, worthless. 3 a cheap insult, con-
attract, beguile, bewitch, cajole, cap- temptible, crude, despicable, facile,
cheapen 60

glib, ill-bred, ill-mannered, mean, presumptuous, rude, inf saucy,

silly, tasteless, unworthy, vulgar. Opp shameless, inf tongue-in-cheek. Opp
EXPENSIVE, WORTHY. RESPECTFUL.
cheapen vb belittle, debase, degrade, cheer n 1 acclamation, applause, cry
demean, devalue, discredit, down- of approval, encouragement, hurrah,
grade, lower the tone (of), popularize, ovation, shout of approval. 2 > h a p -
prostitute, vulgarize. pin e s s . • vb 1 acclaim, applaud, clap,
cheat n 1 charlatan, cheater, inf con- encourage, shout, yell. Opp j e e r .
man, counterfeiter, deceiver, double- 2 comfort, console, delight, encour-
crosser, extortioner, forger, fraud, age, exhilarate, gladden, make cheer-
hoaxer, impersonator, impostor, ful, please, solace, uplift. Opp s a d d e n .
mountebank, inf phoney, inf quack, cheer someone up c o mf o r t , e n t e r -
racketeer, rogue, inf shark, swindler, t a in . cheer up > BRIGHTEN. Cheer up!
trickster, inf twister. 2 artifice, bluff, inf buck up, look happy, inf perk up,
chicanery, inf con, confidence trick, smile, si snap out of it, take heart.
deceit, deception, si fiddle, fraud, cheerful adj animated, bouncy,
hoax, imposture, he, misrepresenta- bright, buoyant, cheery, inf chirpy,
tion, .pretence, inf put-up job, inf contented, convivial, delighted,
racket, inf ripoff, ruse, sham, elated, festive, gay, genial, glad, glee-
swindle, inf swizz, treachery, trick. ful, good-humoured, hearty, hopeful,
• vb'1 bamboozle, beguile, bilk, inf jaunty, jocund, jolly, jovial, joyful,
con, deceive, defraud, si diddle, inf joyous, jubilant, laughing, light,
do, double-cross, dupe, si fiddle, inf fight-hearted, lively, merry, optim-
fleece, fool, hoax, hoodwink, outwit, istic, inf perky, pleased, positive,
inf rip off, rob, inf short-change, rapturous, sparkling, spirited,
swindle, take in, trick. 2 cheat in an sprightly, sunny, warm-hearted.
exam, copy, crib, plagiarize. C> HAPPY. Opp BAD-TEMPERED, CHEERLESS.
check adj > c h e q u e r e d . • n 1 break, cheerless adj bleak, comfortless,
delay, halt, hesitation, hiatus, inter- dark, depressing, desolate, dingy,
ruption, pause, stop, stoppage, sus- disconsolate, dismal, drab, dreary,
pension. 2 medical check, check-up, dull, forbidding, forlorn, frowning,
examination, inf going-over, inspec- funereal, gloomy, grim, joyless, lack-
tion, investigation, inf once-over, lustre, melancholy, miserable,
scrutiny, test. • vb 1 arrest, bar, mournful, sober, sombre, sullen,
block, bridle, control, curb, delay, sunless, uncongenial, unhappy,
foil, govern, halt, hamper, hinder, uninviting, unpleasant, unpromis-
hold back, impede, inhibit, keep in ing, woeful, wretched. > s a d . Opp
check, obstruct, regulate, rein, CHEERFUL.
repress, restrain, retard, slow down,
chemical n compound, element,
stem, stop, stunt (growth), thwart.
substance.
2 check answers. Amer check out, com-
pare, cross-check, examine, inspect, chemist n old use apothecary, Amer
investigate, monitor, research, scru- drug-store, pharmacist, pharmacy.
tinize, test, verify. chequered adj 1 check, crisscross,
cheek n audacity, boldness, brazen- in squares, like a chessboard, patch-
ness, effrontery, impertinence, work, tartan, tessellated. 2 chequered
impudence, insolence, presumptu- career. c> c h a n g e a b l e .
ousness, rudeness, shamelessness, cherish vb be fond of, care for, cos-
temerity. set, foster, hold dear, keep safe, look
cheeky adj arrogant, audacious, after, love, nourish, nurse, nurture,
bold, brazen, cool, discourteous, dis- prize, protect, treasure, value.
respectful, flippant, forward, imper- chest n 1 box, caddy, case, casket,
tinent, impolite, impudent, insolent, coffer, crate, strongbox, trunk.
insulting, irreverent, mocking, pert, 2 breast, rib-cage, thorax.
 61 choke
chew vb bite, champ, crunch, gnaw, naive, natural, simple, trustful, unaf-
grind, masticate, munch, nibble. > fected, unsophisticated. Opp a r t f u l .
EAT. chew over > c o n s id e r . chill n> c o l d . • vb cool, freeze, keep
chick n fledgling, nestling, cold, make cold, refrigerate. Opp
chicken n bantam, broiler, cockerel, WARM.
fowl, hen, pullet, rooster. chilly adj 1 cold, cool, crisp, fresh,
chief adj 1 arch, best, first, greatest, frosty, icy, inf nippy, inf parky, raw,
head, highest, in charge, leading, sharp, wintry. 2 a chilly greeting, aloof,
major, most experienced, most hon- cool, dispassionate, frigid, hostile, ill-
oured, most important, oldest, out- disposed, remote, reserved, inf stand-
standing, premier, principal, senior, offish, unforthcoming, unfriendly,
supreme, top, unequalled, unrivalled. unresponsive, unsympathetic, un-
2 chief facts, basic, cardinal, central, welcoming. Opp w a r m .
dominant, especial, essential, fore- chime n carillon, peal, striking,
most, fundamental, high-priority, tintinnabulation, tolling. • vb > r in g .
indispensable, key, main, necessary, chimney n flue, funnel, smokestack,
overriding, paramount, predomin- china n porcelain. > c r o c k e r y .
ant, primary, prime, salient, signi- chink n 1 cleft, crack, cranny,
ficant, substantial, uppermost, vital, crevice, cut, fissure, gap, opening,
weighty. Opp u n impo r t a n t . • n admin- rift, slit, slot, space, split. 2 > s o u n d .
istrator, authority-figure, inf bigwig, chip n 1 bit, flake, fleck, fragment,
inf boss, captain, chairperson, chief- piece, scrap, shard, shaving, shiver,
tain, commander, commanding of- slice, sliver, splinter, wedge. 2 a chip
ficer, commissioner, controller, in a cup. crack, damage, flaw, gash,
director, employer, executive, fore- nick, notch, scratch, snick. • vb
man, forewoman, inf gaffer, Amer inf break, crack, damage, gash, nick,
godfather, governor, head, king, notch, scratch, splinter, chip away >
leader, manager, managing director, CHISEL, chip in > c o n t r ib u t e , in t e r r u pt .
master, mistress, inf number one, chisel vb carve, inf chip away, cut,
officer, organizer, overseer, owner, engrave, fashion, model, sculpture,
president, principal, proprietor, ring- shape.
leader, ruler, superintendent, super- chivalrous adj bold, brave, chivalric,
visor, inf supremo. courageous, courteous, courtly, gal-
chiefly adv especially, essentially, lant, generous, gentlemanly, heroic,
generally, in particular, mainly, honourable, knightly, noble, polite,
mostly, particularly, predominantly, respectable, true, trustworthy,
primarily, principally, usually. valiant, valorous, worthy. Opp c o w -
child n 1 adolescent, inf babe, baby, a r d l y , RUDE.
Scot bairn, inf bambino, boy, derog choice adj > e x c e l l e n t . • n 1 altern-
brat, girl, derog guttersnipe, infant, ative, dilemma, need to choose,
juvenile, inf kid, lad, lass, minor, option. 2 make your choice, choosing,
newborn, inf nipper, offspring, inf decision, election, liking, nomina-
stripling, toddler, inf tot, derog tion, pick, preference, say, vote. 3 a
urchin, youngster, youth. 2 daugh- choice of food, array, assortment, di-
ter, descendant, heir, issue, off- versity, miscellany, mixture, range,
spring, progeny, son. selection, variety.
childhood n adolescence, babyhood, choke vb 1 asphyxiate, garrotte,
boyhood, girlhood, infancy, minor- smother, stifle, strangle, suffocate,
ity, schooldays, inf teens, youth. throttle. 2 choke in smoke, cough, gag,
childish adj babyish, credulous, fool- gasp, retch. 3 choked with traffic, block,
ish, immature, infantile, juvenile, inf bung up, clog, close, congest,
puerile. > s il l y . Opp ma t u r e . constrict, dam, fill, jam, obstruct,
childlike adj artless, frank, inf green, smother, stop up. choke back > s u p -
guileless, ingenuous, innocent, pr e s s .
choose 62

choose vb adopt, agree on, appoint, churchyard n burial-ground, cem-

decide on, determine on, distinguish, etery, graveyard.
draw lots for, elect, establish, fix on, chute n channel, incline, ramp,
identify, isolate, name, nominate, rapid, slide, slope.
opt for, pick out, inf plump for, pre- cinema n films, old use flicks, Amer
fer, select, settle on, show a prefer- motion pictures, inf movies, inf pic-
ence for, single out, vote for. tures.
choosy adj dainty, discerning, dis- circle n 1 annulus, band, circlet,
criminating, exacting, fastidious, disc, hoop, ring. □ belt, circuit, circula-
finical, finicky, fussy, inf hard to tion, circumference, circumnavigation,
please, nice, particular, pernickety, coil, cordon, curl, curve, cycle, ellipse,
inf picky, selective. Opp in d if f e r e n t . girdle, globe, gyration, lap, loop, orb,
chop vb cleave, cut, hack, hew, lop, orbit, oval, revolution, rotation, round,
slash, split. t> c u t . chop and change sphere, spiral, tour, turn, wheel, whirl,
> CHANGE. whorl. 2 circle ofjriends. association,
chopper n axe, cleaver. band, body, clique, club, company,
choppy adj roughish, ruffled, turbu- fellowship, fraternity, gang, party,
lent, uneven, wavy. Opp s m o o t h . set, society. > g r o u p . • vb 1 circulate,
chore n burden, drudgery, duty, circumnavigate, circumscribe, coil,
errand, job, task, work. compass, corkscrew, curl, curve, go
round, gyrate, loop, orbit, pirouette,
chorus n 1 choir, choral society,
pivot, reel, revolve, rotate, spin,
vocal ensemble. 2 join in the chorus.
spiral; swirl, swivel, tour, turn,
refrain, response.
wheel, whirl, wind. 2 trees circle the
christen vb anoint, baptize, call, lawn, encircle, enclose, encompass,
dub, name. girdle, hem in, ring, skirt, surround,
chronic adj 1 ceaseless, constant, circuit n journey round, lap, orbit,
continuing, deep-rooted, habitual, revolution, tour.
incessant, incurable, ineradicable, circuitous adj curving, devious,
ingrained, lasting, lifelong, linger- indirect, labyrinthine, mean-dering,
ing, long-lasting, long-lived, long- oblique, rambling, roundabout, ser-
standing, never-ending, non-stop, pentine, tortuous, twisting, winding,
permanent, persistent, unending. zigzag. Opp DIRECT.
Opp a c u t e , t e mpo r a r y . 2 [inj] chronic
circular adj 1 annular, discoid, ring-
driving. > b a d .
like, round. 2 circular conversation, cir-
chronicle n account, annals,
cumlocutory, cyclic, periphrastic,
archive, chronology, description, repeating, repetitive, roundabout,
diary, history, journal, narrative, tautologous. • n advertisement,
record, register, saga, story. leaflet, letter, notice, pamphlet.
chronological adj consecutive, in circulate vb 1 go round, move
order, sequential. about, move round, orbit. > c ir c l e .
chronology n 1 almanac, calendar, 2 circulate gossip, advertise, dissem-
diary, journal, log, schedule, inate, distribute, issue, make known,
timetable. 2 establish the chronology. noise abroad, promulgate, publicize,
dating, order, sequence, timing. publish, inf put about, send round,
chubby adj buxom, dumpy, plump, spread about.
podgy, portly, rotund, round, stout, circulation n 1 flow, movement,
tubby. > f a t . Opp THIN. pumping, recycling. 2 broadcasting,
chunk n bar, block, brick, chuck, inf diffusion, dissemination, distribu-
dollop, hunk, lump, mass, piece, por- tion, promulgation, publication,
tion, slab, wad, wedge, inf wodge. spreading, transmission. 3 newspaper
church n abbey, basilica, cathedral, circulation, distribution, sales-figures.
chapel, convent, monastery, nun- circumference n border, bound-
nery, parish church, priory. ary, circuit, edge, exterior, fringe,
63 class
limit, margin, outline, outside, urbane, urbanized, well-behaved,
perimeter, periphery, rim, verge, well-run. Opp u n c iv il iz e d .
circumstance n affair, event, claim vb 1 ask for, collect, command,
happening, incident, occasion, demand, exact, insist on, request,
occurrence, circumstances 1 back- require, take. 2 affirm, allege, argue,
ground, causes, conditions, consid- assert, attest, contend, declare, insist,
erations, context, contingencies, maintain, pretend, profess, state.
details, factors, facts, influences, par- clairvoyant adj extra-sensory, orac-
ticulars, position, situation, state of ular, prophetic, psychic, telepathic.
affairs, surroundings. 2 finances, • n fortune-teller, oracle, prophet,
income, resources. seer, sibyl, soothsayer.
circumstantial adj conjectural, clamber vb climb, crawl, move awk-
deduced, inferred, unprovable. Opp wardly, scramble.
PROVABLE. clammy adj close, damp, dank,
cistern n bath, container, reservoir, humid, moist, muggy, slimy, sticky,
tank. sweaty, wet.
citadel n acropolis, bastion, castle, clamour n babel, commotion, din,
fort, fortification, fortress, garrison, hubbub, hullabaloo, noise, outcry,
stronghold, tower. racket, row, screeching, shouting,
storm, uproar. • vb call out, cry out,
cite vb adduce, advance, injbring up,
exclaim, shout, yell.
enumerate, mention, name, quote,
clan n family, house, tribe,
inf reel off, refer to, specify.
clannish adj derog cliquish, close,
citizen n burgess, commoner,
close-knit, insular, isolated, narrow,
denizen, dweller, freeman, house-
united.
holder, inhabitant, national, native,
clap n bang, crack, crash, report,
passport-holder, ratepayer, resident,
smack. > s o u n d . • vb 1 applaud, si
subject, taxpayer, voter.
put your hands together, show
city n capital, conurbation, metro- approval. 2 clap on the back. > h it .
polis, town, urban district. clarify vb 1 clear up, define, elucid-
civil adj 1 affable, civilized, consid- ate, explain, explicate, gloss, illumi-
erate, courteous, obliging, respect- nate, make clear, simplify, inf spell
ful, urbane, well-bred, well-man- out, throw light on. Opp c o n f u s e .
nered. > POLITE. Opp IMPOLITE. 2 civil 2 clarify wine, cleanse, clear, filter,
administration, civilian, domestic, purify, refine. Opp c l o u d .
internal, national. Opp mil it a r y . 3 civil clash vb 1 bang, clang, clank, crash,
liberties, communal, public, social, resonate, ring. > s o u n d . 2 > c o n f l ic t .
state, civil rights freedom, human 3 The events clashed. > c o in c id e .
rights, legal rights, liberty, political clasp n 1 brooch, buckle, catch, clip,
rights, civil servant administrator, fastener, fastening, hasp, hook, pin.
bureaucrat, derog mandarin. 2 cuddle, embrace, grasp, grip, hold,
civilization n achievements, attain- hug. • vb 1 > f a s t e n . 2 cling to,
ments, culture, customs, mores, clutch, embrace, enfold, grasp, grip,
organization, refinement, sophist- hold, hug, squeeze. 3 clasp your hands.
ication, urbanity, urbanization. hold together, wring.
civilize vb cultivate, domesticate, class n 1 category, classification,
educate, enlighten, humanize, division, domain, genre, genus,
improve, make better, organize, grade, group, kind, league, order,
refine, socialize, urbanize. quality, rank, set, sort, species,
civilized adj advanced, cultivated, sphere, type. 2 social class, caste,
cultured, democratic, developed, degree, descent, extraction, group-
domesticated, educated, enlightened, ing, lineage, pedigree, standing, sta-
humane, orderly, polite, refined, tion, status, a aristocracy, bourgeoisie,
sociable, social, sophisticated, commoners, (the) commons, gentry, lower
classic 64

class, middle class, nobility, proletariat, straight, tidy. 5 a clean fight, chival-
ruling class, serfs, upper class, upper- rous, fair, honest, honourable, sport-
middle class, (the) workers, working ing, sportsmanlike. 6 clean fun.
class. 3 class in school, band, form, chaste, decent, good, innocent,
Amer grade, group, set, stream, year. moral, respectable, upright, virtuous.
• Vb > CLASSIFY. Opp d ir t y . • vb cleanse, clear up, tidy
classic adj 1 abiding, ageless, death- up, wash. □ bath, bathe, brush, bujf,
less, enduring, established, exem- decontaminate, deodorize, disinfect, dry-
plary, flawless, ideal, immortal, clean, dust, filter, flush, groom, hoover,
lasting, legendary, masterly, memo- launder, mop, polish, purge, purijy, rinse,
rable, notable, outstanding, perfect, sand-blast, sanitize, scour, scrape, scrub,
time-honoured, undying, unforget- shampoo, shower, soap, sponge, spring-
table, inf vintage. t> e x c e l l e n t . Opp clean, spruce up, sterilize, swab, sweep,
COMMONPLACE, EPHEMERAL. 2 a classic swill, vacuum, wipe, wring out. Opp c o n -
case, archetypal, characteristic, copy- t a min a t e . make a clean breast of >
book, definitive, model, paradig- CONFESS.
matic, regular, standard, typical, clean-shaven adj beardless, shaved,
usual. Opp u n u s u a l . • n masterpiece, shaven, shorn, smooth.
masterwork, model. clear adj 1 clean, colourless, crys-
classical adj 1 ancient, Attic, Greek, talline, glassy, limpid, pellucid, pure,
Hellenic, Latin, Roman. 2 classical transparent. 2 clear weather, cloud-
style, austere, dignified, elegant, pure, less, fair, fine, sunny, starlit, un-
restrained, simple, symmetrical, clouded. Opp c l o u d y . 3 clear colours.
well-proportioned. 3 classical music. bright, lustrous, shining, sparkling,
established, harmonious, highbrow, strong, vivid. 4 clear conscience, blame-
serious. less, easy, guiltless, innocent, quiet,
classification n categorization, satisfied, sinless, undisturbed, un-
codification, ordering, organization, tarnished, untroubled, unworried.
systematization, tabulation, tax- 5 clear handwriting, bold, clean, def-
onomy. > CLASS. inite, distinct, explicit, focused, le-
classify vb arrange, bracket gible, positive, recognizable, sharp,
together, catalogue, categorize, class, simple, visible, well-defined. 6 clear
grade, group, order, organize, inf sound, audible, clarion (call), distinct,
pigeon-hole, put into sets, sort, sys- penetrating, sharp. 7 clear instructions.
tematize, tabulate, classified > clear-cut, coherent, comprehensible,
SECRET. explicit, intelligible, lucid, perspic-
clause n article, condition, item, uous, precise, specific, straightfor-
paragraph, part, passage, provision, ward, unambiguous, understand-
proviso, section, subsection. able, unequivocal, well-presented.
claw n nail, talon. • vb graze, injure, 8 clear case of cheating, apparent,
lacerate, maul, rip, scrape, scratch, blatant, clear-cut, conspicuous, evid-
slash, tear. ent, glaring, indisputable, manifest,
clean adj 1 decontaminated, dirt- noticeable, obvious, palpable, per-
free, disinfected, hygienic, immacu- ceptible, plain, pronounced, straight-
late, laundered, perfect, polished, forward, unconcealed, undisguised,
sanitary, scrubbed, spotless, sterile, unmistakable. Opp u n c e r t a in . 9 clear
sterilized, tidy, unadulterated, space, empty, free, open, passable,
unsoiled, unstained, unsullied, uncluttered, uncrowded, unham-
washed, wholesome. 2 clean water. pered, unhindered, unimpeded,
clarified, clear, distilled, fresh, pure, unobstructed. • vb 1 disappear,
purified, unpolluted. 3 clean paper. evaporate, fade, melt away, vanish.
blank, new, plain, uncreased, 2 become clear, brighten, clarify,
unmarked, untouched, unused. 4 a lighten, uncloud. 3 clean, make
clean edge, neat, regular, smooth, clean, make transparent, polish,
65 clip
wipe. 4 clear weeds, disentangle, elim- cious, precocious, quick, quick-
inate, get rid of, remove, strip. 5 clear witted, rational, resourceful, saga-
a drain, clean out, free, loosen, open cious, sensible, sharp, shrewd,
up, unblock, unclog. 6 clear of blame. skilful, skilled, slick, derog sly, smart,
absolve, acquit, exculpate, excuse, subtle, talented, derog wily, wise,
exonerate, free, inf let off, liberate, witty. Opp s t u pid , u n s k il f u l , clever
release, vindicate. 7 clear a building. person inf egghead, expert, genius,
empty, evacuate. 8 clear a fence. derog know-all, mastermind, prodigy,
bound over, jump, leap over, pass sage, derog smart alec, derog smart-
over, spring over, vault, clear away arse, virtuoso, wizard.
> r e mo v e , clear off > d e pa r t , clear up cleverness n ability, acuteness,
t> CLEAN, EXPLAIN. astuteness, brilliance, derog cunning,
clearing n gap, glade, opening, expertise, ingenuity, intellect, intel-
space. ligence, mastery, quickness, sagac-
cleave vb divide, halve, rive, slit, ity, sharpness, shrewdness, skill,
split. > CUT. subtlety, talent, wisdom, wit. Opp
clench vb 1 clamp up, close tightly, STUPIDITY.
double up, grit (your teeth), squeeze cliche n banality, inf chestnut, com-
tightly. 2 clasp, grasp, grip, hold. monplace, hackneyed phrase, plat-
clergyman n archbishop, ayatollah, itude, stereotype, truism, well-worn
bishop, canon, cardinal, chaplain, phrase.
churchman, cleric, curate, deacon, client n plur clientele, consumer, cus-
fem deaconess, dean, divine, ecclesi- tomer, patient, patron, shopper,
astic, evangelist, friar, guru, imam, user.
inf man of the cloth, minister, mis- cliff n bluff, crag, escarpment,
sionary, monk, padre, parson, pas- precipice, rock-face, scar, sheer drop.
tor, preacher, prebend, prelate, climate n 1 t> w e a t h e r . 2 climate of
priest, rabbi, rector, vicar. Opp l a y - opinion, ambience, atmosphere, aura,
ma n . disposition, environment, feeling,
clerical adj 1 clerical and administrat- mood, spirit, temper, trend.
ive work, office, secretarial, inf white- climax n 1 acme, apex, apogee, cri-
collar. 2 a clerical collar, canonical, sis, culmination, head, highlight,
ecclesiastical, episcopal, ministerial, high point, peak, summit, zenith.
monastic, pastoral, priestly, rabbin- Opp b a t h o s . 2 sexual climax, orgasm.
ical, sacerdotal, spiritual. climb n ascent, grade, gradient, hill,
clerk n assistant, bookkeeper, com- incline, pitch, rise, slope. • vb
puter operator, copyist, filing clerk, 1 ascend, clamber up, defy gravity,
office boy, office girl, office worker, go up, levitate, lift off, mount, move
inf pen-pusher, receptionist, re- up, scale, shin up, soar, swarm up,
corder, scribe, secretary, shorthand- take off. 2 incline, rise, slope up.
typist, stenographer^ typist, 3 climb a mountain, conquer, reach
word-processor operator. the top of. climb down > d e s c e n d .
clever adj able, academic, accom- clinch vb agree, close, complete, con-
plished, acute, adept, adroit, apt, art- clude, confirm, decide, determine,
ful, artistic, astute, inf brainy, bright, finalize, make certain of, ratify,
brilliant, canny, capable, derog crafty, secure, settle, shake hands on, sign,
creative, derog cunning, inf cute, inf verify.
deep, deft, dextrous, discerning, cling vb adhere, attach, fasten, fix,
expert, derog foxy, gifted, guileful, hold fast, stick, cling to t> e mb r a c e .
inf handy, imaginative, ingenious, clinic n health centre, infirmary,
intellectual, intelligent, invent- medical centre, sick-bay, surgery.
ive, judicious, keen, knowing, clip n 1 > f a s t e n e r . 2 clip from a film.
knowledgeable, observant, penetrat- bit, cutting, excerpt, extract, frag-
ing, perceptive, percipient, perspica- ment, part, passage, portion, quota-
 66
cloak
tion, section, snippet, trailer. • vb closed adj 1 fastened, locked, sealed,
1 pin, staple. t> f a s t e n . 2 crop, dock, shut. 2 completed, concluded, done
prune, shear, snip, trim. t> c u t . with, ended, finished, over, resolved,
cloak n 1 cape, cope, mantle, pon- settled, tied up.
cho, robe, wrap. t> c o a t . 2 t> c o v e r . clot n embolism, lump, mass, throm-
• vb cover, disguise, mantle, mask, bosis. • vb coagulate, coalesce, con-
screen, shroud, veil, wrap. t> h id e . geal, curdle, make lumps, set,
clock n time-piece. □ alarm-clock, solidify, stiffen, thicken.
chronometer, dial, digital clock, grand- cloth n fabric, material, stuff, tex-
father clock, hourglass, pendulum clock, tile. □ astrakhan, boucle, brocade,
sundial, watch. broderie anglaise, buckram, calico, cam-
clog vb block, inf bung up, choke, bric, candlewick, canvas, cashmere,
dose, congest, dam, fill, impede, jam, cheesecloth, chenille, chiffon, chintz, cor-
obstruct, plug, stop up. duroy, cotton, crepe, cretonne, damask,
close adj 1 accessible, adjacent, denim, dimity, drill, drugget, elastic, felt,
adjoining, at hand, convenient, flannel, flannelette, gabardine, gauze,
handy, near, neighbouring, point- georgette, gingham, hessian, holland,
blank. 2 close friends, affectionate, lace, lame, lawn, linen, lint, mohair,
attached, dear, devoted, familiar, moire, moquette, muslin, nankeen, nylon,
fond, friendly, intimate, loving, inf oilcloth, oilskin, organdie, organza,
thick. 3 close comparison, alike, ana- patchwork, pique, plaid, plisse, plush,
logous, comparable, compatible, cor- polycotton, polyester, poplin, rayon, sack-
responding, related, resembling, cloth, sacking, sailcloth, sarsenet, sateen,
similar. 4 a close crowd, compact, satin, satinette, seersucker, serge, silk,
compressed, congested, cramped, stockinet, taffeta, tapestry, tartan, terry,
crowded, dense, inf jam-packed, ticking, tulle, tussore, tweed, velour, vel-
packed, thick. 5 close scrutiny, attent- vet, velveteen, viscose, voile, winceyette,
ive, careful, concentrated, detailed, wool, worsted.
minute, painstaking, precise, rigor- clothe vb accoutre, apparel, array,
ous, searching, thorough. 6 close with attire, cover, deck, drape, dress, fit
information, confidential, private, out, garb, inf kit out, outfit, robe,
reserved, reticent, secretive, taciturn. swathe, wrap up. Opp s t r ip , clothe
7 close with money, illiberal, mean, inf yourself in t> w e a r .
mingy, miserly, niggardly, parsimo- clothes plur n apparel, attire, inf
nious, penurious, stingy, tight, tight- clobber, clothing, costume, dress,
fisted, ungenerous. 8 close atmosphere. ensemble, finery, garb, garments, inf
airless, confined, fuggy, humid, gear, inf get-up, outfit, old use rai-
muggy, oppressive, stale, stifling, ment, inf rig-out, si togs, trousseau,
stuffy, suffocating, sweltering, underclothes, uniform, vestments,
unventilated, warm. Opp d is t a n t , wardrobe, wear, weeds, o anorak,
o pe n . • n 1 cessation, completion, apron, blazer, blouse, bodice, breeches,
conclusion, culmination, end, finish, caftan, cagoule, cape, cardigan, cassock,
stop, termination. 2 cadence, coda, chemise, chuddar, cloak, coat, crinoline,
finale. 3 close of a play, denouement, culottes, decolletage, doublet, dress, dress-
last act. • vb 1 bolt, fasten, lock, ing-gown, duffel coat, dungarees, frock,
make inaccessible, padlock, put out gaiters, gauntlet, glove, gown, greatcoat,
of bounds, seal, secure, shut. 2 close gym-slip, habit, housecoat, jacket, jeans,
a road, bar, barricade, block, make jerkin, jersey, jodhpurs, jumper, kilt,
impassable, obstruct, seal off, stop knickers, leg-warmers, leotard, livery,
up. 3 close proceedings, complete, con- loincloth, lounge suit, mackintosh,
clude, culminate, discontinue, end, mantle, miniskirt, muffler, neck-tie, neg-
finish, stop, terminate, inf wind up. lige, nightclothes, nightdress, oilskins,
4 close a gap. fill, join up, make overalls, overcoat, pants, parka, pinafore,
smaller, reduce, shorten. Opp o pe n . poncho, pullover, pyjamas, raincoat,
 67
coax
robe, rompers, sari, sarong, scarf, shawl, itive, tactless, uncouth, undiplo-
shirt, shorts, singlet, skirt, slacks, smock, matic, unsubtle, unsuitable.
sock, sou'wester, spats, stocking, stole, cluster n assembly, batch, bunch,
suit, surplice, sweater, sweatshirt, tail- clump, collection, crowd, gathering,
coat, tie, tights, trousers, trunks, t-shirt, knot. > g r o u p. • vb t> g a t h e r .
tunic, tutu, uniform, waistcoat, wet-suit, clutch n clasp, control, evil embrace,
wind-cheater, wrap, yashmak. > h a t , grasp, grip, hold, possession, power.
SHOE, UNDERCLOTHES. • vb catch, clasp, cling to, grab,
cloud n billow, haze, mist, rain grasp, grip, hang on to, hold on to,
cloud, storm cloud. • vb blur, con- seize, snatch, take hold of.
ceal, cover, darken, dull, eclipse,
clutter n chaos, confusion, disorder,
enshroud, hide, mantle, mist up,
jumble, junk, litter, lumber, mess,
obfuscate, obscure, screen, shroud,
mix-up, muddle, odds and ends, rub-
veil.
bish, tangle, untidiness. • vb be scat-
cloudless adj bright, clear, starlit, tered about, fill, lie about, litter,
sunny, unclouded. Opp c l o u d y . make untidy, inf mess up, muddle,
cloudy adj 1 dark, dismal, dull, strew.
gloomy, grey, leaden, lowering, over-
coach n 1 bus, carriage, old use
cast, sullen, sunless. Opp c l o u d l e s s .
charabanc. 2 games coach, instructor,
2 cloudy windows, blurred, blurry,
teacher, trainer, tutor. • vb direct,
dim, misty, opaque, steamy, unclear. drill, exercise, guide, instruct, pre-
3 cloudy liquid, hazy, milky, muddy,
pare, teach, train, tutor.
murky. Opp c l e a r .
coagulate vb clot, congeal, curdle,
clown n buffoon, comedian, comic,
in/jell, set, solidify, stiffen, thicken,
fool, funnyman, jester, joker. t> id io t .
club n 1 bat, baton, bludgeon, cosh, coarse adj 1 bristly, gritty, hairy,
cudgel, mace, staff, stick, truncheon. harsh, lumpy, prickly, rough,
2 association, brotherhood, circle,
scratchy, sharp, stony, uneven,
company, federation, fellowship, fra- unfinished. Opp f in e , s o f t . 2 coarse lan-
ternity, group, guild, league, order, guage. bawdy, blasphemous, boorish,
organization, party, set, sisterhood, common, crude, earthy, foul, immod-
society, sorority, union. • vb t> h it . est, impolite, improper, impure,
club together t> c o m b in e .
indecent, indelicate, offensive, rib-
ald, rude, smutty, uncouth, unre-
clue n hint, idea, indication, indic-
fined, vulgar. Opp REFINED.
ator, inkling, key, lead, pointer, sign,
suggestion, suspicion, tip, tip-off, coast n beach, coastline, littoral,
trace. seaboard, seashore, seaside, shore.
clump n bunch, bundle, cluster, col-
• vb cruise, drift, free-wheel, glide,
lection, mass, shock (of hair), thicket, sail, skim, slide, slip.
tuft. > GROUP. coastal adj maritime, nautical,
clumsy adj 1 awkward, blunder- naval, seaside.
ing, bumbling, bungling, fumbling, coat n 1 □ anorak, blazer, cagoule,
gangling, gawky, graceless, inf cardigan, dinner-jacket, doublet, duffel
ham-fisted, heavy-handed, hulking, coat, greatcoat, jacket, jerkin, mackin-
inelegant, lumbering, maladroit, tosh, overcoat, raincoat, tail-coat, tunic,
shambling, uncoordinated, ungainly, tuxedo, waistcoat, wind-cheater. 2 an
ungraceful, unskilful. Opp s k il f u l . animal’s coat, fleece, fur, hair, hide,
2 amateurish, badly-made, bulky, pelt, skin. 3 coat of paint, coating,
cumbersome, heavy, inconvenient, cover, film, finish, glaze, layer, mem-
inelegant, large, ponderous, rough, brane, overlay, patina, sheet, veneer,
shapeless, unmanageable, unwieldy. wash. > c o v e r in g . • vb t> c o v e r , coat
Opp n e a t . 3 a clumsy remark, boorish, of arms t> c r e s t .
gauche, ill-judged, inappropriate, coax vb allure, beguile, cajole,
indelicate, indiscreet, inept, insens- charm, decoy, entice, induce, in-
cobble 68

veigle, manipulate, persuade, tempt, coincide vb accord, agree, be con-

urge, wheedle. gruent, be identical, be in unison, be
cobble vb cobble together botch, the same, clash, coexist, come
knock up, make, mend, patch up, together, concur, correspond, fall
put together. together, happen together, har-
code n 1 etiquette, laws, manners, monize, line up, match, square,
regulations, rule-book, rules, system. synchronize, tally.
2 message in code, cipher, secret lan- coincidence n 1 accord, agree-
guage, signals, sign-system. ment, coexistence, concurrence, con-
coerce vb bludgeon, browbeat, bully, formity, congruence, congruity,
compel, constrain, dragoon, force, correspondence, harmony, similar-
frighten, intimidate, press-gang, ity. 2 meet by coincidence, accident,
pressurize, terrorize. chance, fluke, luck.
coercion n browbeating, brute cold adj 1 arctic, biting, bitter, bleak,
force, bullying, compulsion, con- chill, chilly, cool, crisp, cutting,
scription, constraint, duress, force, draughty, freezing, fresh, frosty,
intimidation, physical force, pres- glacial, heatless, ice-cold, icy,
sure, inf strong-arm tactics, threats. inclement, keen, inf nippy, numbing,
coffer n box, cabinet, case, casket, inf parky, penetrating, perishing,
chest,' crate, trunk. piercing, polar, raw, shivery, Siber-
cog n ratchet, sprocket, tooth, ian, snowy, unheated, wintry. 2 cold
cogent adj compelling, conclusive, hands, blue with cold, chilled, dead,
convincing, effective, forceful, frostbitten, frozen, numbed, shiver-
forcible, indisputable, irresistible, ing, shivery. 3 a cold heart, aloof, apa-
logical, persuasive, potent, powerful, thetic, callous, cold-blooded, cool,
rational, sound, strong, unanswer- cruel, distant, frigid, hard, hard-
able, weighty, well-argued. t> c o h e r - hearted, heartless, indifferent, in-
e n t . Opp IRRATIONAL. hospitable, inhuman, insensitive,
cohere vb bind, cake, cling together, passionless, phlegmatic, reserved,
coalesce, combine, consolidate, fuse, standoffish, stony, uncaring, uncon-
hang together, hold together, join, cerned, undemonstrative, unemo-
stick together, unite. tional, unenthusiastic, unfeeling,
coherent adj articulate, cohering, unkind, unresponsive, unsympath-
cohesive, connected, consistent, in- etic. > UNFRIENDLY. Opp HOT, KIND. • H
tegrated, logical, lucid, orderly, 1 chill, coldness, coolness, freshness,
organized, rational, reasonable, iciness, low temperature, wintriness.
reasoned, sound, structured, system- Opp h e a t . 2 cold in the head, catarrh, inf
atic, unified, united, well-ordered, flu, influenza, inf the sniffles, feel
well-structured. > c o g e n t . Opp in c o - the cold freeze, quiver, shake,
h er en t . shiver, shudder, suffer from
coil n circle, convolution, corkscrew, hypothermia, tremble.
curl, helix, kink, loop, ring, roll, cold-blooded adj barbaric, brutal,
screw, spiral, twirl, twist, vortex, callous, hard-hearted, inhuman,
whirl, whorl. • vb bend, curl, en- inhumane, merciless, pitiless, ruth-
twine, loop, roll, snake, spiral, turn, less, savage. > c r u e l . Opp h u m a n e .
twine, twirl, twist, wind, writhe. cold-hearted adj apathetic, cool,
coin n 1 bit, piece. 2 [plur] cash, dispassionate, frigid, heartless,
change, coppers, loose change, impassive, impersonal, indifferent,
silver, small change. > mo n e y . • vb insensitive, thick-skinned, uncaring,
1 forge, make, mint, mould, stamp. unemotional, unfeeling, unkind,
2 coin a name, conceive, concoct, cre- unresponsive, unsympathetic. >
ate, devise, dream up, fabricate, UNFRIENDLY. Opp FRIENDLY.
hatch, introduce, invent, make up, collaborate vb 1 band together,
originate, produce, think up. cooperate, join forces, inf pull
 69 colour
together, team up, work together. alms-giving, flag-day, free-will offer-
2 [derog] collude, connive, conspire, ing, offertory, voluntary contribu-
join the opposition, inf rat, turn tions, inf whip-round.
traitor. collective adj combined, common,
collaboration n 1 association, con- composite, co-operative, corporate,
certed effort, cooperation, partner- democratic, group, joint, shared, uni-
ship, tandem, teamwork. 2 [derog] fied, united. Opp in d iv id u a l .
collusion, connivance, conspiracy, college n academy, conservatory,
treachery. institute, polytechnic, school, uni-
collaborator n 1 accomplice, ally, versity.
assistant, associate, co-author, col- collide vb collide with bump into,
league, confederate, fellow-worker, cannon into, crash into, knock, meet,
helper, helpmate, partner, joc part- run into, slam into, smash into,
ner-in-crime, teammate. 2 collaborator strike, touch. t> h it .
with an enemy, blackleg, inf Judas,
collision n accident, bump, clash,
quisling, inf scab, traitor, turncoat.
crash, head-on collision, impact,
collapse n break-down, break-up,
knock, pile-up, scrape, smash, wreck,
cave-in, destruction, downfall, end,
colloquial adj chatty, conversa-
fall, ruin, ruination, subsidence,
tional, everyday, informal, slangy,
wreck. • vb 1 break down, break up,
vernacular. Opp f o r ma l .
buckle, cave in, crumble, crumple,
deflate, disintegrate, double up, fall colonist n colonizer, explorer, pi-
apart, fall down, foil in, fold up, give oneer, settler. Opp n a t iv e .
way, inf go west, sink, subside, tum- colonize vb occupy, people, popu-
ble down. 2 collapse in the heat. late, settle in, subjugate.
become ill, inf bite the dust, black colony n 1 dependency, dominion,
out, inf crack up, faint, founder, inf possession, protectorate, province,
go under, inf keel over, pass out, old settlement, territory. 2 t> g r o u p.
use swoon. 3 sales collapsed, become colossal adj Brobdingnagian, ele-
less, crash, deteriorate, diminish, phantine, enormous, gargantuan,
drop, fail, slump, worsen. giant, gigantic, herculean, huge,
collapsible adj adjustable, folding, immense, inf jumbo, mammoth,
retractable, telescopic. massive, mighty, monstrous, monu-
colleague n associate, business mental, prodigious, titanic, tower-
partner, fellow-worker. > c o l l a b o r - ing, Vast. > BIG. Opp SMALL.
a t or . colour n 1 coloration, colouring,
collect vb 1 accumulate, agglomer- hue, pigment, pigmentation, shade,
ate, aggregate, amass, assemble, tincture, tinge, tint, tone, a amber,
bring together, cluster, come azure, beige, black, blue, bronze, brown,
together, concentrate, congregate, buff, carroty, cherry, chestnut, chocolate,
convene, converge, crowd, forgather, cobalt, cream, crimson, dun, fawn, gilt,
gamer, gather, group, harvest, heap, gold, golden, green, grey, indigo, ivory,
hoard, lay up, muster, pile up, put jet-black, khaki, lavender, maroon,
by, rally, reserve, save, scrape mauve, navy blue, ochre, olive, orange,
together, stack up, stockpile, store. pink, puce, purple, red, rosy, russet,
Opp d is pe r s e . 2 collect money for charity. sandy, scarlet, silver, tan, tawny,
be given, raise, secure, take. 3 collect turquoise, vermilion, violet, white, yel-
goods from a shop, acquire, bring, low. 2 colour in your cheeks, bloom,
fetch, get, load up, obtain, pick up. blush, flush, glow, rosiness, ruddi-
collected c a l m. ness. • vb 1 colour-wash, crayon, dye,
collection n 1 accumulation, array, paint, pigment, shade, stain, tinge,
assemblage, assortment, cluster, con- tint. 2 blush, bronze, brown, bum,
glomeration, heap, hoard, mass, pile, flush, redden, tan. Opp f a d e . 3 coloured
set, stack, store. t> g r o u p . 2 old use by prejudice, affect, bias, distort,
colourful 70

impinge on, influence, pervert, pre- ing, link-up, merger, partnership,

judice, slant, sway, colours > f l a g . syndicate, union.
colourful adj 1 bright, brilliant, combine vb 1 add together, amal-
chromatic, gaudy, iridescent, multi- gamate, bind, blend, bring together,
coloured, psychedelic, showy, compound, fuse, incorporate, integ-
vibrant. 2 colourful personality, dash- rate, intertwine, interweave, join,
ing, distinctive, dynamic, eccentric, link, inf lump together, marry,
energetic, exciting, flamboyant, merge, mingle, mix, pool, put
flashy, florid, glamorous, unusual, together, synthesize, unify, unite.
vigorous. 3 colourful description. Opp d iv id e . 2 combine as a team, ally,
graphic, interesting, lively, pic- associate, band together, club
turesque, rich, stimulating, striking, together, coalesce, connect, cooper-
telling, vivid. Opp c o l o u r l e s s . ate, form an alliance, gang together,
colouring n colourant, dye, pigment, gang up, join forces, team up. Opp
pigmentation, stain, tincture. t> c o l - DISPERSE.
our . combustible adj flammable,
colourless adj 1 albino, ashen, inflammable. Opp in c o mb u s t ib l e .
blanched, faded, grey, monochrome, come vb 1 advance, appear,
neutral, pale, pallid, sickly, wan, inf approach, arrive, draw near, enter,
washed out, waxen. > w h it e . 2 bland, get to, move (towards), near, reach,
boring, characterless, dingy, dismal, visit. 2 take what comes, happen, mat-
dowdy, drab, dreary, dull, insipid, erialize, occur, put in an appear-
lacklustre, lifeless, ordinary, tame, ance, show up. come about >
uninspiring, uninteresting, vacuous, HAPPEN, come across > FIND, come
vapid. Opp c o l o u r f u l . apart > d is in t e g r a t e , come clean >
column n 1 pilaster, pile, pillar, pole, c o n f e s s , come out with > s a y . come
post, prop, shaft, support, upright. round > r e c o v e r , come up > a r is e .
2 newspaper column, article, feature, come upon f in d .
leader, leading article, piece. 3 col- comedian n buffoon, clown, comic,
umn of soldiers, cavalcade, file, line, fool, humorist, jester, joker, wag. >
procession, queue, rank, row, string, ENTERTAINER.
train. comedy n buffoonery, clowning,
comb vb 1 arrange, groom, neaten, facetiousness, farce, hilarity,
smarten up, spruce up, tidy, un- humour, jesting, joking, satire, slap-
tangle. 2 comb the house, hunt stick, wit.
through, ransack, rummage comfort n 1 aid, cheer, consolation,
through, scour, search thoroughly. encouragement, help, moral support,
combat n action, battle, bout, clash, reassurance, relief, solace, succour,
conflict, contest, duel, encoun- sympathy. 2 living in comfort, abund-
ter, engagement, fight, skirmish, ance, affluence, contentment, cosi-
struggle, war, warfare. • vb battle ness, ease, luxury, opulence, plenty,
against, contend against, contest, relaxation, well-being. Opp d is c o m -
counter, defy, face up to, grapple f o r t , po v e r t y . • vb assuage, calm,
with, oppose, resist, stand up to, cheer up, console, ease, encourage,
strive against, struggle against, gladden, hearten, help, reassure,
tackle, withstand. > f ig h t . relieve, solace, soothe, succour, sym-
combination n aggregate, alloy, pathize with.
amalgam, blend, compound, concoc- comfortable adj 1 inf comfy, con-
tion, concurrence, conjunction, venient, cosy, easy, padded, reassur-
fusion, marriage, mix, mixture, syn- ing, relaxing, roomy, snug, soft,
thesis, unification. 2 alliance, amal- upholstered, warm. 2 comfortable
gamation, association, coalition, clothes, informal, loose-fitting, well-
confederacy, confederation, consor- fitting, well-made. 3 a comfortable
tium, conspiracy, federation, group- life, affluent, agreeable, contented,
71 commitment
happy, homely, luxurious, pleasant, ous, praiseworthy, worthwhile. >
prosperous, relaxed, restful, serene, GOOD. Opp DEPLORABLE.
tranquil, untroubled, well-off. Opp comment n animadversion, an-
UNCOMFORTABLE. notation, clarification, comment-
comic adj absurd, amusing, comical, ary, criticism, elucidation, explana-
diverting, droll, facetious, farcical, tion, footnote, gloss, inteijection,
funny, hilarious, humorous, hyster- interpolation, mention, note, obser-
ical, jocular, joking, laughable, vation, opinion, reaction, reference,
ludicrous, inf priceless, inf rich, remark, statement. • vb animadvert,
ridiculous, sarcastic, sardonic, satir- criticize, elucidate, explain, inteiject,
ical, side-splitting, silly, uproarious, interpolate, interpose, mention,
waggish, witty. Opp s e r io u s . • n 1 > note, observe, opine, remark, say,
COMEDIAN. 2 > MAGAZINE. state.
command n 1 behest, bidding, com- commentary n 1 account, broad-
mandment, decree, directive, edict, cast, description, report. 2 comment-
injunction, instruction, mandate, ary on a poem, analysis, criticism,
order, requirement, ultimatum, writ. critique, discourse, elucidation,
2 authority, charge, control, direc- explanation, interpretation, notes,
tion, government, jurisdiction, man- review.
agement, oversight, power, rule, commentator n announcer, broad-
sovereignty, supervision, sway. caster, journalist, reporter.
3 command of a language, grasp, commerce n business, buying and
knowledge, mastery. • vb 1 adjure, selling, dealings, financial transac-
old use bid, charge, compel, decree, tions, marketing, merchandising,
demand, direct, enjoin, instruct, trade, trading, traffic, trafficking.
ordain, order, prescribe, request, commercial adj business, eco-
require. 2 command a ship, adminis- nomic, financial, mercantile, mon-
ter, be in charge of, control, direct, etary, money-making, pecuniary,
govern, have authority over, head, profitable, profit-making, trading.
lead, manage, reign over, rule, super- • n inf advert, advertisement, inf
vise. break, inf plug.
commandeer vb appropriate, con- commiserate vb be sony (for), be
fiscate, hijack, impound, requisition, sympathetic, comfort, condole, con-
seize, sequester, take over. sole, feel (for), grieve, mourn, show
commander n captain, command- sympathy (for), sympathize. Opp c o n -
ant, commanding-officer, general, g r a t u l a t e.
head, leader, officer-in-charge. t> commission n 1 appointment, pro-
CHIEF. motion, warrant. 2 commission to do a
commemorate vb be a memorial job. booking, order, request. 3 com-
to, be a reminder of, celebrate, hon- mission on a sale, allowance, inf cut,
our, immortalize, keep alive the fee, percentage, inf rake-off, reward.
memory of, memorialize, pay your 4 I> COMMITTEE.
respects to, pay homage to, pay trib- commit vb 1 be guilty of, cany out,
ute to, remember, salute, solemnize, do, enact, execute, perform, perpet-
commence vb embark on, enter on, rate. 2 commit to safe-keeping, consign,
inaugurate, initiate, launch, open, deliver, deposit, entrust, give, hand
set off, set out, set up, start. > b e g in . over, put away, transfer, commit
Opp f in is h . yourself > pr o mis e .
commend vb acclaim, applaud, commitment n 1 assurance, duty,
approve of, compliment, congratu- guarantee, liability, pledge, promise,
late, eulogize, extol, praise, recom- undertaking, vow, word. 2 commit-
mend. Opp CRITICIZE. ment to a cause, adherence, ded-
commendable adj admirable, cred- ication, determination, devotion,
itable, deserving, laudable, meritori- involvement, loyalty, zeal. 3 social
committed 72

commitments, appointment, arrange- turbulence, turmoil, unrest, up-

ment, engagement. heaval, uproar, upset.
committed adj active, ardent, inf communal adj collective, common,
card-carrying, dedicated, devoted, general, joint, mutual, open, public,
earnest, enthusiastic, fervent, firm, shared. Opp pr iv a t e .
keen, passionate, resolute, single- communicate vb 1 commune, con-
minded, staunch, unwavering, fer, converse, correspond, discuss,
wholehearted, zealous. Opp a pa t h e t ic . get in touch, interrelate, make con-
committee n body, council, panel. tact, speak, talk, write (to). 2 com-
□ assembly, board, cabinet, caucus, com- municate information, advise, an-
mission, convention, junta, jury, parlia- nounce, broadcast, convey, declare,
ment, quango, synod, think-tank, disclose, disseminate, divulge, ex-
working party. > g r o u p , me e t in g . press, get across, impart, indicate,
common adj 1 average, inf common inform, intimate, make known,
or garden, conventional, customary, mention, network, notify, pass on,
daily, everyday, familiar, frequent, proclaim, promulgate, publish, put
habitual, normal, ordinary, plain, across, put over, relay, report, reveal,
popular, prevalent, regular, routine, say, show, speak, spread, state, trans-
inf run-of-the-mill, standard, stock, fer, transmit, write. 3 communicate
traditional, typical, undistinguished, a disease, give, infect someone with,
unexceptional, unsurprising, usual, pass on, spread, transfer, transmit.
well-known, widespread, workaday. 4 The passage communicates with the
> c o mmo n pl a c e . 2 common knowledge. kitchen, be connected, lead (to).
accepted, collective, communal, gen- communication n 1 communic-
eral, joint, mutual, open, popular, ating, communion, contact, in-
public, shared, universal. 3 the com- teraction, old use intercourse.
mon people, lower class, lowly, ple- □ announcement, bulletin, cable, card,
beian, proletarian. 4 [inf] Don’t be communique, conversation, correspond-
common! boorish, churlish, coarse, ence, dialogue, directive, dispatch, docu-
crude, disreputable, ill-bred, inferior, ment, fax, gossip, inf grapevine,
loutish, low, rude, uncouth, unre- information, intelligence, intimation, let-
fined, vulgar, inf yobbish. Opp a r is t o - ter, inf memo, memorandum, message,
c r a t ic , d is t in c t iv e , u n u s u a l . • n heath, news, note, notice, proclamation, report,
park, parkland. rumour, signal, statement, talk,
commonplace adj banal, boring, telegram, transmission, wire, word of
forgettable, hackneyed, humdrum, mouth, writing. □ CB, computer, inter-
mediocre, obvious, ordinary, pedes- com, radar, telegraph, telephone,
trian, plain, platitudinous, pre- teleprinter, walkie-talkie. 2 mass com-
dictable, prosaic, routine, standard, munication. mass media, the media.
trite, unexciting, unremarkable. > □ advertising, broadcasting, cable televi-
COMMON. Opp MEMORABLE. • H > PLAT- sion, magazines, newspapers, the press,
ITUDE. radio, satellite, telecommunication, tele-
vision.
commotion n inf ado, agitation, inf
bedlam, bother, brawl, injbrouhaha, communicative adj articulate, inf
inf bust-up, chaos, clamour, con- chatty, frank, informative, open, out-
fusion, contretemps, din, disorder, going, responsive, sociable. > t a l k -
a t iv e . Opp SECRETIVE.
disturbance, excitement, ferment,
flurry, fracas, fray, furore, fuss, hub- community n colony, common-
bub, hullabaloo, incident, inf ker- wealth, commune, countiy, kibbutz,
fuffle, noise, inf palaver, pandemon- nation, society, state. > g r o u p .
ium, inf punch-up, quarrel, racket, commute vb 1 adjust, alter, curtail,
riot, row, rumpus, sensation, inf she- decrease, lessen, lighten, mitigate,
mozzle, inf stir, inf to-do, tumult, reduce, shorten. 2 > t r a v e l .
73 competitive
compact adj 1 close-packed, com- 2 compatible claims, ac-
f r ie n d l y .
pacted, compressed, consolidated, cordant, congruent, consistent,
dense, firm, heavy, packed, solid, consonant, matching, reconcilable.
tight-packed. Opp l o o s e . 2 handy, Opp in c o mpa t ib l e .
neat, portable, small. 3 abbreviated, compel vb bind, bully, coerce, con-
abridged, brief, compendious, com- strain, dragoon, drive, exact, force,
pressed, concentrated, condensed, impel, make, necessitate, oblige,
short, small, succinct, terse. t> c o n - order, press, press-gang, pressurize,
c is e . Opp LARGE. • n r> AGREEMENT. require, inf shanghai, urge.
companion n accomplice, assistant, compendium n abridgement,
associate, chaperone, colleague, com- abstract, anthology, collection, con-
rade, confederate, confidant(e), con- densation, digest, handbook, sum-
sort, inf crony, escort, fellow, mary.
follower, inf henchman, mate, part- compensate vb 1 atone, inf cough
ner, stalwart. > f r ie n d , h e l pe r . up, expiate, indemnify, make
company n 1 companionship, fel- amends, make good, make repara-
lowship, friendship; society. 2 [in/| tion, make restitution, make up for,
company for tea. callers, guests, vis- pay back, pay compensation, recom-
itors. 3 mixed company, assemblage, pense, redress, reimburse, remuner-
association, band, body, circle, club, ate, repay, requite. 2 counterbalance,
community, coterie, crew, crowd, counterpoise, even up, neutralize,
ensemble, entourage, gang, gather- offset.
ing, society, throng, troop, troupe (of compensation n amends, damages,
actors). 4 trading company, business, indemnity, recompense, refund,
cartel, concern, conglomerate, con- reimbursement, reparation, repay-
sortium, corporation, establishment, ment, restitution.
firm, house, line, organization, part- compere n anchor-man, announcer,
nership, injset-up, syndicate, union. disc jockey, host, hostess, linkman,
t> GROUP. Master of Ceremonies, MC, presen-
comparable adj analogous, cog- ter.
nate, commensurate, compatible, compete vb 1 be a contestant, enter,
corresponding, equal, equivalent, participate, perform, take part, take
matching, parallel, proportionate, up the challenge. 2 be in competi-
related, similar, twin. Opp d is s imil a r . tion, conflict, contend, emulate,
compare vb check, contrast, cor- oppose, rival, strive, struggle, under-
relate, draw parallels (between), cut, vie. > f ig h t . Opp c o o pe r a t e , com-
equate, juxtapose, liken, make pete with > RIVAL.
comparisons, make connections competent adj able, acceptable,
(between), measure (against), relate accomplished, adept, adequate, capa-
(to), set side by side, weigh (against), ble, clever, effective, effectual, effi-
compare with t> e q u a l . cient, experienced, expert, fit, inf
comparison n analogy, compar- handy, practical, proficient, quali-
ability, contrast, correlation, differ- fied, satisfactory, skilful, skilled,
ence, distinction, juxtaposition, trained, workmanlike, worthwhile.
likeness, parallel, relationship, Opp INCOMPETENT.
resemblance, similarity. competition n 1 competitiveness,
compartment n alcove, area, bay, conflict, contention, emulation,
berth, booth, cell, chamber, inf rivalry, struggle. 2 challenge, cham-
cubbyhole, cubicle, division, hole, pionship, contest, event, game, heat,
kiosk, locker, niche, nook, parti- match, quiz, race, rally, series, tour-
tion, pigeonhole, section, slot, space, nament, trial.
subdivision. competitive adj 1 aggressive, antag-
compatible adj 1 harmonious, like- onistic, combative, contentious, cut-
minded, similar, well-matched. > throat, hard-fought, keen, lively,
competitor 74

sporting, well-fought. 2 competitive 1 accomplish, achieve, carry out,

prices, average, comparable with clinch, close, conclude, crown, do,
others, fair, moderate, reasonable, end, finalize, finish, fulfil, perfect,
similar to others. perform, round off, terminate, inf top
competitor n adversary, antagonist, qff, inf wind up. 2 complete forms.
candidate, challenger, contender, answer, fill in.
contestant, entrant, finalist, op- complex adj complicated, compos-
ponent, participant, rival. ite, compound, convoluted, elab-
compile vb accumulate, amass, orate, inf fiddly, heterogeneous,
arrange, assemble, collate, collect, intricate, involved, inf knotty (prob-
compose, edit, gather, marshal, or- lem), labyrinthine, manifold, mixed,
ganize, put together. multifarious, multiple, multiplex,
complain vb inf beef, inf bellyache, si ornate, perplexing, problematical,
bind, carp, cavil, find fault, fuss, inf sophisticated, tortuous, inf tricky.
gripe, groan, inf grouch, grouse, Opp s impl e .
grumble, lament, moan, object, complexion n appearance, colour,
protest, wail, whine, inf whinge. Opp colouring, look, pigmentation, skin,
PRAiSE.-complain about t> c r it ic iz e . texture.
complaint n 1 accusation, inf complicate vb compound, con-
beef,, charge, condemnation, criti- found, confuse, elaborate, entangle,
cism, grievance, inf gripe, grouse, make complicated, mix up, muddle,
grumble, moan, objection, protest, inf screw up, inf snarl up, tangle,
stricture, whine, whinge. 2 a twist. Opp s impl if y , complicated >
medical complaint, affliction, ailment, c o mpl e x .
disease, disorder, infection, malady, complication n complexity, con-
malaise, sickness, upset. > il l n e s s . fusion, convolution, difficulty,
complaisant adj accommodating, dilemma, intricacy, inf mix-up, obs-
acquiescent, amenable, biddable, tacle, problem, ramification, set-
compliant, cooperative, deferential, back, snag, tangle.
docile, obedient, obliging, pliant, compliment n accolade, admira-
polite, submissive, tractable, willing. tion, appreciation, approval, com-
Opp OBSTINATE. mendation, congratulations, enco-
complement n 1 completion, inf mium, eulogy, felicitations, flattery,
finishing touch, perfection. 2 a full honour, panegyric, plaudits, praise,
complement, aggregate, capacity, testimonial, tribute. • vb applaud,
quota, sum, total. • vb add to, com- commend, congratulate, inf crack up,
plete, make whole, perfect, round eulogize, extol, felicitate, flatter,
off, top up. give credit, laud, pay homage to,
complementary adj interdepend- praise, salute, speak highly of. Opp
ent, matching, reciprocal, toning, INSULT.
twin. complimentary adj admiring,
complete adj 1 comprehensive, appreciative, approving, commend-
entire, exhaustive, full, intact, total, atory, congratulatory, encomiastic,
unabbreviated, unabridged, uncut, eulogistic, favourable, flattering,
unedited, unexpurgated, whole. derog fulsome, generous, laudatory,
2 accomplished, achieved, com- panegyrical, rapturous, supportive.
pleted, concluded, done, ended, fin- Opp ABUSIVE, CONTEMPTUOUS, CRITICAL.
ished, over. > pe r f e c t . 3 a complete comply vb abide (by), accede, accord,
disaster, absolute, arrant, downright, acquiesce, adhere (to), agree, assent,
extreme, inf out-and-out, outright, be in accordance, coincide, concur,
pure, rank, sheer, thorough, thor- consent, correspond (to), defer, fall in
oughgoing, total, unmitigated, (with), fit in, follow, fulfil, harmon-
unmixed, unqualified, utter, inf ize, keep (to), match, meet, obey,
wholesale. Opp in c o m pl e t e . • vb observe, perform, respect, satisfy,
 75 conceal
square (with), submit, suit, yield. t> telescope, truncate. Opp e x pa n d , com-
CONFORM. Opp DEFY. pressed t> COMPACT, c o n c is e .
component n bit, constituent, ele- comprise vb be composed of, com-
ment, essential part, ingredient, prehend, consist of, contain, cover,
item, part, piece, inf spare, spare embody, embrace, include, incorp-
part, unit. orate, involve.
compose vb 1 build, compile, con- compromise n bargain, concession,
stitute, construct, fashion, form, in/give-and-take, in/halfway house,
frame, make, put together. 2 compose middle course, middle way, settle-
music, arrange, create, devise, ima- ment. • vb 1 concede a point, go to
gine, make up, produce, write. 3 com- arbitration, make concessions, meet
pose yourself, calm, control, pacify, halfway, negotiate a settlement,
quieten, soothe, tranquillize, be reach a formula, settle, inf split the
composed of t> c o mpr is e , composed difference, strike a balance. 2 com-
t> CALM. promise your reputation, damage, dis-
composition n 1 assembly, con-
credit, disgrace, dishonour, imperil,
stitution, creation, establishment, jeopardize, prejudice, risk, under-
formation, formulation, inf make- mine, weaken, compromising t>
SHAMEFUL.
up, setting up. 2 balance, configura-
tion, layout, organization, structure. compulsion n 1 coercion, duress,
3 a literary composition, article, essay, force, necessity, restraint, restriction.
stoiy. t> w r it in g . 4 a musical composi- 2 compulsion to smoke, addiction,
tion. opus, piece, work. t> m u s ic . drive, habit, impulse, pressure, urge,
compulsive adj 1 besetting, com-
compound adj complex, complic-
pelling, driving, instinctive, invol-
ated, composite, intricate, involved, untaiy, irresistible, overpowering,
multiple. Opp s impl e . • n 1 alloy, amal- overwhelming, powerful, uncontrol-
gam, blend, combination, compos- lable, urgent. 2 compulsive drinker.
ite, composition, fusion, mixture, addicted, habitual, incorrigible,
synthesis. 2 compound for cattle. Amer incurable, obsessive, persistent.
corral, enclosure, pen, run. • vb t>
compulsory adj binding, contrac-
COMBINE, c o mpl ic a t e . tual, Fr de rigueur, enforceable,
comprehend vb appreciate, appre- essential, imperative, imposed,
hend, conceive, discern, fathom, fol- incumbent, indispensable, inescap-
low, grasp, know, perceive, realize, able, mandatoiy, necessaiy, obliga-
see, take in, inf twig, understand. toiy, official, prescribed, required,
comprehensible adj clear, easy, requisite, set, statutoiy, stipulated,
intelligible, lucid, meaningful, plain, unavoidable. Opp o pt io n a l .
self-explanatory, simple, straightfor- compunction n contrition, hesita-
ward, understandable. Opp in c o mpr e - tion, pang of conscience, qualm,
h e n s ib l e . regret, remorse, scruple, self-
comprehensive adj allembracing, reproach.
broad, catholic, compendious, com- compute vb add up, ascertain,
plete, detailed, encyclopaedic, ex- assess, calculate, count, determine,
haustive, extensive, far-reaching, estimate, evaluate, measure, reckon,
full, inclusive, indiscriminate, sweep- total, work out.
ing, thorough, total, universal, computer n mainframe, micro,
wholesale, wide-ranging. Opp s e l e c t - microcomputer, mini-computer, PC,
iv e . personal computer, robot, word-
compress vb abbreviate, abridge, processor.
compact, concentrate, condense, comrade n associate, colleague,
constrict, contract, cram, crush, flat- companion. t> f r ie n d .
ten, in/jam, precis, press, shorten, conceal vb blot out, buiy, camou-
squash, squeeze, stuff, summarize, flage, cloak, cover up, disguise,
concede 76

envelop, gloss over, hide, hush up, responsibility, task. 3 matter for con-
keep dark, keep quiet, keep secret, cern. anxiety, burden, disquiet, dis-
mask, obscure, screen, secrete, sup- tress, fear, malaise, solicitude, worry.
press, veil. Opp r e v e a l , concealed > 4 business concern, business, company,
HIDDEN. corporation, enterprise, establish-
concede vb accept, acknowledge, ment, firm, organization. • vb affect,
admit, agree, allow, confess, grant, be important to, be relevant to, inter-
make a concession, own, profess, est, involve, matter to, pertain to,
recognize, concede defeat capit- refer to, relate to.
ulate, inf cave in, cede, give in, concerned adj 1 concerned parents.
resign, submit, surrender, yield. bothered, caring, distressed, dis-
conceit n arrogance, boastfulness, turbed, fearful, perturbed, solicitous,
egotism, self-admiration, self-esteem, touched, troubled, uneasy, unhappy,
self-love, vanity. > pr id e . upset, worried. t> a n x io u s . 2 the people
conceited adj arrogant, inf big- concerned, connected, implicated,
headed, boastful, bumptious, inf interested, involved, referred to, rel-
cocksure, inf cocky, egocentric, egot- evant. > RESPONSIBLE.
istical), grand, haughty, inf high and concerning prep about, apropos of,
mighty, immodest, narcissistic, over- germane to, involving, re, regarding,
weening, pleased with yourself, relating to, relevant to, with refer-
proud, self-centred, self-important, ence to, with regard to.
self-satisfied, smug, snobbish, inf concert n performance, programme,
snooty, inf stuck-up, supercilious, inf Show. i> ENTERTAINMENT, MUSIC.
swollen-headed, inf toffee-nosed, concerted adj collaborative, col-
vain, vainglorious. Opp mo d e s t . lective, combined, cooperative,
conceive vb 1 become pregnant. joint, mutual, shared, united.
2 conceive a plan, conjure up, contrive, concession n adjustment,
create, design, devise, inf dream up, allowance, reduction.
envisage, evolve, form, formulate, concise adj brief, compact, com-
frame, germinate, hatch, imagine, pendious, compressed, concentrated,
initiate, invent, make up, originate, condensed, epigrammatic, laconic,
plan, plot, produce, realize, suggest, pithy, short, small, succinct, terse. >
think up, visualize, work out. t> ABRIDGED. Opp DIFFUSE.
THINK. conclude vb 1 cease, close, com-
concentrate n distillation, essence, plete, culminate, end, finish, round
extract. • vb 1 apply yourself, attend, off, stop, terminate. 2 assume,
be absorbed, be attentive, engross decide, deduce, gather, infer, judge,
yourself, think, work hard. 2 accu- reckon, suppose, surmise. > t h in k .
mulate, centralize, centre, cluster, conclusion n 1 close, completion,
collect, congregate, converge, crowd, culmination, end, epilogue, finale,
focus, gather, mass. Opp d is pe r s e . finish, peroration, rounding-off, ter-
3 concentrate a liquid, condense, mination. 2 answer, belief, decision,
reduce, thicken. Opp d il u t e , concen- deduction, inference, interpretation,
trated 1 t> in t e n s iv e . 2 condensed, judgement, opinion, outcome, res-
evaporated, reduced, strong, thick, olution, result, solution, upshot,
undiluted. verdict.
conception n 1 begetting, conceiv- conclusive adj certain, convincing,
ing, fathering, fertilization, genesis, decisive, definite, persuasive, unam-
impregnation, initiation, origin. > biguous, unanswerable, unequivocal,
BEGINNING. 2 > IDEA. unquestionable. Opp in c o n c l u s iv e .
concern n 1 attention, care, charge, concoct vb contrive, cook up, coun-
consideration, heed, interest, regard. terfeit, devise, fabricate, feign, for-
2 no concern of yours, affair, business, mulate, hatch, invent, make up,
involvement, matter, problem, plan, prepare, put together, think up.
77 confidence
concord n agreement, euphony, har- conducive adj advantageous, bene-
mony, peace. ficial, encouraging, favourable, help-
concrete adj actual, definite, exist- ful, supportive, be conducive to >
ing, factual, firm, material, objective, ENCOURAGE.
palpable, physical, real, solid, sub- conduct n 1 actions, attitude, bear-
stantial, tactile, tangible, touchable, ing, behaviour, comportment, de-
visible. Opp a b s t r a c t . meanour, deportment, manners,
concur vb accede, accord, agree, ways. 2 conduct of affairs, administra-
assent. > c o mpl y . tion, control, direction, discharge,
concurrent adj coexisting, coincid- government, guidance, handling,
ing, concomitant, contemporaneous, leading, management, operation,
contemporaiy, overlapping, parallel, organization, regulation, running,
simultaneous, synchronous. supervision. • vb 1 administer, be in
condemn vb 1 blame, castigate, charge of, chair, command, control,
censure, criticize, damn, decry, direct, escort, govern, handle, head,
denounce, deplore, deprecate, disap- look after, manage, organize, over-
prove of, disparage, execrate, rebuke, see, preside over, regulate, rule, run,
reprehend, reprove, revile, inf slam, steer, superintend, supervise, usher.
inf slate, upbraid. Opp c o m m e n d . 2 conduct me home, accompany,
2 convict, find guilty, judge, pass escort, guide, lead, pilot, take, usher.
3 conduct electricity, carry, channel,
judgement, prove guilty, punish, sen-
tence. Opp ACQUIT. convey, transmit, conduct yourself
t> BEHAVE.
condensation n haze, mist, precip-
itation, inf steam, water-drops. confer vb 1 accord, award, bestow,
give, grant, honour with, impart,
condense vb 1 abbreviate, abridge,
invest, present. 2 compare notes,
compress, contract, curtail, precis,
consult, converse, debate, deliberate,
reduce, shorten, summarize, synop-
discourse, discuss, exchange ideas,
size. Opp e x pa n d . 2 condense a liquid.
inf put your heads together, seek
concentrate, distil, reduce, solidify,
advice. > t a l k .
thicken. Opp d il u t e .
conference n colloquium, congress,
condescend vb deign, demean
consultation, convention, council,
yourself, humble yourself, lower
deliberation, discussion, forum, sem-
yourself, stoop, condescending >
inar, symposium. > me e t in g .
HAUGHTY.
condition n 1 case, circumstance, confess vb acknowledge, admit, be
inf fettle, fitness, form, health, inf truthful, infcome clean, concede, dis-
nick, order, shape, situation, state, close, divulge, infmake a clean breast
inf trim, working order. 2 limitation, (of), own up, unbosom yourself,
obligation, prerequisite, proviso, unburden yourself.
qualification, requirement, requisite, confession n acknowledgement,
restriction, stipulation, terms. 3 med- admission, declaration, disclosure,
ical condition. > il l n e s s . • vb acclimat- expression, profession, revelation.
ize, accustom, brainwash, educate, confide vb consult, open your heart,
mould, prepare, re-educate, inf soften speak confidentially, inf spill the
up, teach, train. beans, inf tell all, tell secrets, un-
conditional adj dependent, limited, bosom yourself, trust.
provisional, qualified, restricted, confidence n 1 belief, certainty, cre-
safeguarded, inf with strings at- dence, faith, hope, optimism, pos-
tached. Opp u n c o n d it io n a l . itiveness, reliance, trust. 2 aplomb,
condone vb allow, connive at, dis- assurance, boldness, composure,
regard, endorse, excuse, forgive, conviction, firmness, nerve, panache,
ignore, let someone off, overlook, self-assurance, self-confidence, self-
pardon, tolerate. possession, self-reliance, spirit, verve.
confident 78

Opp agree, oppose each other. > f ig h t ,

d o u b t , h e s it a t io n , have confid-
ence in t> TRUST. QUARREL.
confident adj 1 certain, convinced, conform vb acquiesce, agree, be
hopeful, optimistic, positive, san- good, behave conventionally, blend
guine, sure, trusting. 2 a confident per- in, inf do what you are told, fit in, inf
son. assertive, assured, bold, derog keep in step, obey, inf see eye to eye,
cocksure, composed, cool, definite, inf toe the line. > c o mpl y .
fearless, secure, self-assured, self-con- conformist n conventional person,
fident, self-possessed, self-reliant, traditionalist, yes-man. Opp r e b e l .
unafraid. Opp d o u b t f u l . conformity n complaisance, com-
confidential adj 1 classified, inf pliance, conventionality, obedience,
hush-hush, intimate, inf off the orthodoxy, submission, uniformity.
record, personal, private, restricted, confront vb accost, argue with,
secret, suppressed, top secret. 2 con- attack, brave, challenge, defy,
fidential secretary, personal, private, encounter, face up to, meet, oppose,
trusted. resist, stand up to, take on, with-
stand. Opp AVOID.
confine vb bind, box in, cage, cir-
cumscribe, constrain, inf coop up, confuse vb 1 disarrange, disorder,
cordon off, cramp, curb, detain, distort, entangle, garble, jumble, inf
enclose, gaol, hedge in, hem in, inf mess up, mingle, mix up, muddle,
hold down, immure, incarcerate, tangle, inf throw into disarray, upset.
2 rules confuse me. agitate, baffle,
isolate, keep in, limit, localize, re-
strain, restrict, rope off, shut in, befuddle, bemuse, bewilder, con-
shut up, surround, wall up. > im - found, disconcert, disorientate, dis-
pr is o n . Opp FREE.
tract, inf flummox, fluster, mislead,
mystify, perplex, puzzle, inf rattle,
confirm vb 1 authenticate, back up, inf throw. 3 confuse twins, fail to dis-
bear out, corroborate, demonstrate, tinguish. confusing > pu z z l in g .
endorse, establish, fortify, give cre- confused adj 1 chaotic, disordered,
dence to, justify, lend force to, prove, disorderly, disorganized, inf higgledy-
reinforce, settle, show, strengthen, piggledy, jumbled, messy, mixed up,
substantiate, support, underline, vin- muddled, inf screwed-up, si sham-
dicate, witness to. 2 confirm a deal.
bolic, inf topsy-turvy, twisted. 2 con-
authorize, inf clinch, formalize, guar- fused ideas, aimless, contradictory,
antee, make legal, make official, rat-
disconnected, disjointed, garbled,
ify, sanction, validate, verify.
incoherent, inconsistent, irrational,
confiscate vb appropriate, com- misleading, obscure, rambling,
mandeer, expropriate, impound, unclear, unsound, unstructured,
remove, seize, sequester, sequestrate, woolly. 3 confused mind, addled, addle-
take away, take possession of. headed, baffled, bewildered, dazed,
conflict n 1 antagonism, antipathy, disorientated, distracted, flustered,
contention, contradiction, difference, fuddled, inf in a tizzy, inebriated,
disagreement, discord, dissension, muddle-headed, inf muzzy, mystified,
friction, hostility, incompatibility, non-plussed, perplexed, puzzled. >
inconsistency, opposition, strife. MAD. Opp ORDERLY.
2 altercation, battle, inf brush, clash, confusion n 1 inf ado, anarchy, bed-
combat, confrontation, contest, dis- lam, bother, chaos, clutter, com-
pute, encounter, engagement, feud, motion, confusion, din, disorder,
fight, quarrel, row, inf set-to, skir- disorganization, disturbance, fuss,
mish, struggle, war, warfare, hubbub, hullabaloo, jumble, mael-
wrangle. • vb inf be at odds, be at strom, inf mayhem, melee, mess, inf
variance, be incompatible, clash, mix-up, muddle, pandemonium,
compete, contend, contradict, con- racket, riot, rumpus, shambles,
trast, inf cross swords, differ, dis- tumult, turbulence, turmoil,
79 conservation
upheaval, uproar, welter, whirl. over, vanquish, worst. > w in . 2 con-
2 mental confusion, bemusement, quer a mountain, climb, reach the top
bewilderment, disorientation, dis- of.
traction, mystification, perplexity, conquest n annexation, appropri-
puzzlement. Opp o r d e r . ation, capture, defeat, domination,
congeal vb clot, coagulate, coalesce, invasion, occupation, overthrow,
condense, curdle, freeze, harden, inf subjection, subjugation, inf takeover.
jell, set, solidify, stiffen, thicken. > VICTORY.
congenial adj acceptable, agreeable, conscience n compunction, ethics,
amicable, companionable, compat- honour, fairness, misgivings, moral-
ible, genial, kindly, suitable, sym- ity, morals, principles, qualms, reser-
pathetic, understanding, well-suited. vations, scruples, standards.
> FRIENDLY. Opp UNCONGENIAL. conscientious adj accurate, at-
congenital adj hereditary, inborn, tentive, careful, diligent, dutiful,
inbred, inherent, inherited, innate, exact, hard-working, high-minded,
natural. honest, meticulous, painstaking,
congested adj blocked, choked, particular, punctilious, responsible,
clogged, crammed, crowded, full, rigorous, scrupulous, serious, thor-
jammed, obstructed, overcrowded, ough. Opp CARELESS.
stuffed. Opp CLEAR. conscious adj 1 alert, awake,
congratulate vb applaud, compli- aware, compos mentis, sensible. 2 a
ment, felicitate, praise. conscious act. calculated, deliberate,
congregate vb assemble, cluster, intended, intentional, knowing,
collect, come together, convene, con- planned, premeditated, self-con-
verge, crowd, forgather, gather, get scious, studied, voluntary, waking,
together, mass, meet, muster, rally, wilful. Opp UNCONSCIOUS.
rendezvous, swarm, throng. > g r o u p .
consecrate vb bless, dedicate,
conjure vb bewitch, charm, compel,
devote, hallow, make sacred, sanc-
enchant, invoke, raise, rouse, sum- tify. Opp DESECRATE.
mon. conjure up > pr o d u c e .
consecutive adj continuous, fol-
conjuring n illusions, legerdemain,
lowing, one after the other, running
magic, sleight of hand, tricks, wiz-
(3 days running), sequential, succeed-
ardry.
ing, successive.
connect vb 1 attach, combine,
couple, engage, fix, interlock, join, consent n acquiescence, agreement,
link, put on, switch on, tie, turn on, approval, assent, concurrence, im-
unite. > f a s t e n . 2 associate, bracket primatur, permission, seal of ap-
together, compare, make a connec- proval. • vb accede, acquiesce,
tion between, put together, relate, agree, approve, comply, concede,
tie up. Opp s e pa r a t e . concur, conform, submit, undertake,
yield. Opp r e f u s e , consent to > a l l o w .
connection n affinity, association,
bond, coherence, contact, correla- consequence n 1 aftermath,
tion, correspondence, interrelation- byproduct, corollary, effect, end, inf
ship, link, relationship, relevance, follow-up, issue, outcome, reper-
tie, in/tie-up, unity. Opp s e pa r a t io n . cussion, result, sequel, side-effect,
conquer vb 1 annex, beat, best, cap- upshot. 2 of no consequence, account,
ture, checkmate, crush, defeat, get concern, importance, moment, note,
the better of, humble, inf lick, significance, value, weight.
master, occupy, outdo, overcome, consequent adj consequential,
overpower, overrun, overthrow, over- ensuing, following, resultant, result-
whelm, possess, prevail over, quell, ing, subsequent.
rout, seize, silence, subdue, subject, conservation n careful manage-
subjugate, succeed against, sur- ment, economy, good husbandly,
mount, take, inf thrash, triumph maintenance, preservation, protec-
conservationist 80

tion, safeguarding, saving, upkeep. consistent adj 1 constant, depend-

Opp DESTRUCTION. able, faithful, predictable, regular,
conservationist n ecologist, en- reliable, stable, steadfast, steady,
vironmentalist, inf green, preserva- unchanging, undeviating, unfailing,
tionist. .uniform, unvarying. 2 The stories are
conservative adj 1 conventional, consistent, accordant, compatible, con-
die-hard, hidebound, moderate, gruous, conso-nant, in accordance,
narrow-minded, old-fashioned, reac- in agreement, in harmony, of a piece.
tionary, sober, traditional, un- Opp INCONSISTENT.
adventurous. 2 conservative estimate. console vb calm, cheer, comfort,
cautious, moderate, reasonable, ease, encourage, hearten, relieve,
understated, unexaggerated. 3 con- solace, soothe, succour, sympathize
servative politics. right-of-centre, right- with.
wing, Tory. Opp pr o g r e s s iv e . • n consolidate vb make secure, make
conformist, die-hard, reactionary, strong, reinforce, stabilize,
right-winger, Tory, traditionalist. strengthen. Opp w e a k e n .
conserve vb be economical with, consort vb consort with accom-
hold'in reserve, keep, look after, pany, associate with, befriend, be
maintain, preserve, protect, safe- friends with, be seen with, fraternize
guard, save, store up, use sparingly. with, inf gang up with, keep com-
Opp DESTROY, WASTE. pany with, mix with.
consider vb 1 inf chew over, co- conspicuous adj apparent, blatant,
gitate, contemplate, deliberate, dis- clear, discernible, distinguished,
cuss, examine, meditate, mull over, dominant, eminent, evident, flag-
muse, ponder, puzzle over, reflect, rant, glaring, impressive, manifest,
ruminate, study, inf turn over, weigh marked, notable, noticeable, ob-
up. > t h in k . 2 believe, deem, judge, trusive, obvious, ostentatious, out-
reckon. standing, patent, perceptible, plain,
prominent, pronounced, self-evident,
considerable adj appreciable, big,
shining (example), showy, striking,
biggish, comfortable, fairly im- unconcealed, unmistakable, visible.
portant, fairly large, noteworthy, Opp INCONSPICUOUS.
noticeable, perceptible, reasonable,
conspiracy n cabal, collusion, con-
respectable, significant, sizeable, sub-
nivance, inf frame-up, insider deal-
stantial, inf tidy (amount), tolerable,
ing, intrigue, machinations, plot, inf
worthwhile. Opp n e g l ig ib l e .
racket, scheme, stratagem, treason,
considerate adj accommodating,
conspirator n plotter, schemer,
altruistic, attentive, caring, charit- traitor, inf wheeler-dealer.
able, cooperative, friendly, generous,
conspire vb be in league, collude,
gracious, helpful, kind, kind-hearted,
combine, connive, cooperate, hatch a
kindly, neighbourly, obliging, polite,
plot, have designs, intrigue, plot,
sensitive, solicitous, sympathetic,
scheme.
tactful, thoughtful, unselfish. Opp
SELFISH. constant adj 1 ceaseless, chronic,
consistent, continual, continuous,
consign vb commit, convey, deliver, endless, eternal, everlasting, fixed,
devote, entrust, give, hand over, pass immutable, incessant, invariable,
on, relegate, send, ship, transfer. neverending, non-stop, permanent,
consignment n batch, cargo, deliv- perpetual, persistent, predictable,
ery, load, lony-load, shipment, van- regular, relentless, repeated, stable,
load. steady, sustained, unbroken, un-
consist vb consist of add up to, changing, unending, unflagging, uni-
amount to, be composed of, be made form, uninterrupted, unremitting,
of, comprise, contain, embody, unvarying. 2 a constant friend, dedi-
include, incorporate, involve. cated, dependable, determined,
 81 contend
devoted, faithful, firm, indefatigable, container n holder, receptacle,
loyal, reliable, resolute, staunch, repository, vessel. > b a g , b a r r e l ,
steadfast, tireless, true, trustworthy, b o t t l e , b o w l , b o x , c u p , d is h , g l a s s , l u g -
trusty, unswerving, unwavering. Opp g a g e , POT.
CHANGEABLE. contaminate vb adulterate, befoul,
constitute vb appoint, bring to- corrupt, debase, defile, dirty, foul,
gether, compose, comprise, create, infect, poison, pollute, soil, spoil,
establish, form, found, inaugurate, stain, sully, taint. Opp pu r if y .
make (up), set up. contemplate vb 1 eye, gaze at, look
construct vb assemble, build, cre- at, observe, regard, stare at, survey,
ate, engineer, erect, fabricate, fash- view, watch. > s e e . 2 cogitate, con-
ion, fit together, form, inf knock sider, day-dream, deliberate, exam-
together, make, manufacture, pitch ine, meditate, mull over, muse, plan,
(tent), produce, put together, put up, ponder, reflect, ruminate, study,
Set Up. Opp DEMOLISH. work out. > t h in k . 3 envisage, expect,
construction n 1 assembly, build- intend, propose.
ing, creation, erecting, erection, contemporary adj 1 contemporary
manufacture, production, putting- with me at school, coeval, coexistent,
up, setting-up. 2 building, edifice, coinciding, concurrent, contempor-
erection, structure. aneous, simultaneous, synchronous.
constructive adj advantageous, 2 contemporary music, current, fash-
beneficial, cooperative, creative, ionable, the latest, modem, newest,
helpful, positive, practical, product- novel, present-day, topical, in/trendy,
ive, useful, valuable, worthwhile. Opp up-to-date, inf with-it.
DESTRUCTIVE. contempt n abhorrence, contumely,
consult vb confer, debate, discuss, derision, detestation, disdain,
exchange views, inf put your heads disgust, dislike, disrespect, loathing,
together, refer (to), seek advice, speak ridicule, scorn. > h a t r e d . Opp a d mir a -
(to), inf talk things over. > q u e s t io n . t io n . feel contempt for > d e s pis e .
consume vb 1 devour, digest, drink, contemptible adj base, beneath
eat, inf gobble up, inf guzzle, inf put contempt, despicable, detestable, dis-
away, swallow. 2 consume energy. creditable, disgraceful, dishon-
absorb, deplete, drain, eat into, ourable, disreputable, ignominious,
employ, exhaust, expend, swallow inferior, loathsome, low-down,
up, use up, utilize. mean, odious, pitiful, inf shabby,
contact n connection, join, junction, shameful, worthless, wretched. >
touch, union. > c o mmu n ic a t io n . • vb HATEFUL. Opp ADMIRABLE.
apply to, approach, call on, com- contemptuous adj arrogant, belit-
municate with, correspond with, tling, condescending, derisive, dis-
inf drop a line to, get hold of, get dainful, dismissive, disrespectful,
in touch with, make overtures to, haughty, inf holier-than-thou, im-
notify, phone, ring, sound out, speak perious, insolent, insulting, jeering,
to, talk to, telephone. lofty, patronizing, sarcastic, scathing,
contagious adj catching, com- scornful, sneering, si snide, snobbish,
municable, infectious, spreading, inf snooty, si snotty, supercilious,
transmittable. superior, withering. Opp r e s pe c t f u l .
contain vb 1 accommodate, enclose, be contemptuous of > d e s pis e .
hold. 2 be composed of, comprise, contend vb 1 compete, contest,
consist of, embody, embrace, cope, dispute, grapple, oppose, rival,
include, incorporate, involve. 3 con- strive, struggle, vie. > f ig h t , q u a r r e l .
tain your anger, check, control, curb, 2 contend that you’re innocent, affirm,
hold back, keep back, limit, repress, allege, argue, assert, claim, declare,
restrain, stifle. maintain, plead.
content 82
content adj > c o n t e n t e d . • n 1 con- unending, uninterrupted, unremit-
stituent, element, ingredient, part. ting. > CHRONIC, CONTINUAL. Opp INTER-
2 > CONTENTMENT. • vb > SATISFY. MITTENT.
contented adj cheerful, comfort- contour n curve, form, outline,
able, derog complacent, content, ful- relief, shape.
filled, gratified, peaceful, pleased, contract n agreement, bargain,
relaxed, satisfied, serene, smiling, bond, commitment, compact, con-
smug, uncomplaining, untroubled, cordat, covenant, deal, indenture,
well-fed. > h a ppy . Opp d is s a t is f ie d . lease, pact, settlement, treaty, un-
contentment n comfort, content, derstanding, undertaking. • vb
contentedness, ease, fulfilment, 1 become denser, become smaller,
relaxation, satisfaction, serenity, close up, condense, decrease, dimin-
smugness, tranquillity, well-being. > ish, draw together, dwindle, fall
HAPPINESS. Opp DISSATISFACTION. away, lessen, narrow, reduce, shrink,
contest n > c o mpe t it io n , f ig h t . • vb shrivel, slim down, thin out, wither.
1 compete for, contend for, fight for, Opp e x pa n d . 2 agree, arrange, close a
inf make a bid for, strive for, struggle deal, covenant, negotiate a deal,
for, take up the challenge of, vie for. promise, sign an agreement, under-
2 contest a decision, argue against, take. 3 contract a disease, become
challenge, debate, dispute, doubt, infected by, catch, develop, get.
oppose, query, question, refute, contraction n 1 diminution, nar-
resist. rowing, shortening, shrinkage, shriv-
contestant n candidate, competitor, elling.- 2 abbreviation, diminutive,
contender, entrant, opponent, par- shortened form.
ticipant, player, rival. contradict vb argue with, challenge,
context n background, environ- confute, controvert, deny, disagree
ment, frame of reference, frame- with, dispute, gainsay, impugn,
work, milieu, position, setting, oppose, speak against.
situation, surroundings. contradictory adj antithetical, con-
continual adj eternal, everlasting, flicting, contrary, different, dis-
frequent, limitless, ongoing, peren- crepant, incompatible, inconsistent,
nial, perpetual, recurrent, regular, irreconcilable, opposed, opposite.
repeated. > c o n t in u o u s . Opp o c c a - Opp COMPATIBLE.
s io n a l . contraption n apparatus, con-
continuation n 1 continuance, trivance, device, gadget, invention,
extension, maintenance, prolonga- machine, mechanism.
tion, protraction, resumption. 2 addi- contrary adj 1 conflicting, contra-
tion, appendix, postscript, sequel, dictory, converse, different, opposed,
supplement. opposite, other, reverse. 2 contrary
continue vb 1 carry on, endure, go winds, adverse, hostile, inimical,
on, keep on, last, linger, persevere, opposing, unfavourable. 3 a contrary
persist, proceed, pursue, remain, child, awkward, cantankerous, de-
stay, inf stick at, survive, sustain. fiant, difficult, disobedient, dis-
2 continue after lunch, inf pick up the obliging, disruptive, intractable,
threads, recommence, restart, obstinate, perverse, rebellious, inf
resume. 3 continue a series, extend, stroppy, stubborn, subversive, unco-
keep going, keep up, lengthen, main- operative, unhelpful, wayward, wil-
tain, prolong. ful. Opp HELPFUL.
continuous adj ceaseless, constant, contrast n antithesis, comparison,
continuing, endless, incessant, inter- difference, differentiation, disparity,
minable, lasting, never-ending, non- dissimilarity, distinction, divergence,
stop, permanent, persistent, relent- foil, opposition. Opp s imil a r it y . • vb
less, inf round-the-clock, inf solid, 1 compare, differentiate, discrim-
sustained, unbroken, unceasing, inate, distinguish, emphasize differ-
83 conviction
ences, make a distinction, set one gress, inf on the mend, recovering,
against the other. 2 be set off (by), recuperating.
clash, conflict, deviate (from), differ convene vb bring together, call, con-
(from), contrasting > d is s imil a r . voke, summon. > g a t h e r .
contribute vb add, bestow, inf chip convenient adj accessible, appro-
in, donate, inf fork out, furnish, give, priate, at hand, available, commodi-
present, provide, put up, subscribe, ous, expedient, handy, helpful,
supply, contribute to > s u ppo r t . labour-saving, nearby, neat, oppor-
contribution n 1 donation, fee, gift, tune, serviceable, suitable, timely,
grant, inf hand-out, offering, pay- usable, useful. Opp in c o n v e n ie n t .
ment, sponsorship, subscription. convention n 1 custom, etiquette,
2 addition, encouragement, input, formality, matter of form, practice,
support. > HELP. rule, tradition. 2 > a s s e mb l y .
contributor n 1 backer, benefactor, conventional adj 1 accepted, accus-
donor, giver, helper, patron, spon- tomed, commonplace, correct, cus-
sor, subscriber, supporter. 2 > tomary, decorous, expected, formal,
WRITER. habitual, mainstream, orthodox,
control n 1 administration, author- prevalent, received, inf run-of-the-
ity, charge, command, curb, direc- mill, standard, straight, traditional,
tion, discipline, government, grip, unadventurous, unimaginative, un-
guidance, influence, jurisdiction, original, unsurprising. > o r d in a r y .
leadership, management, mastery, 2 [derog] bourgeois, conservative,
orderliness, organization, oversight, hidebound, pedestrian, reactionary,
power, regulation, restraint, rule, rigid, stereotyped, inf stuffy. Opp
strictness, supervision, supremacy, UNCONVENTIONAL.
sway. 2 button, dial, handle, key, converge vb coincide, combine,
lever, switch. • vb 1 administer, inf be come together, join, link up, meet,
at the helm, be in charge, inf boss, merge, unite. Opp d iv e r g e .
command, conduct, cope with, deal conversation n inf chat, inf chin-
with, direct, dominate, engineer, wag, colloquy, communication, con-
govern, guide, handle, have control ference, dialogue, discourse, dis-
of, lead, look after, manage, manip- cussion, exchange of views, gossip,
ulate, order about, oversee, regi- inf heart-to-heart, intercourse, inf
ment, regulate, rule, run, super- natter, palaver, phone-call, inf pow-
intend, supervise. 2 control animals. wow, tete-a-tete. > t a l k .
check, confine, contain, curb, hold convert vb change someone’s mind,
back, keep in check, master, repress, convince, persuade, re-educate,
restrain, subdue, suppress. reform, regenerate, rehabilitate,
controversial adj 1 arguable, con- save, win over. > c h a n g e .
trovertible, debatable, disputable, convey vb 1 bear, bring, carry, con-
doubtful, problematical, question- duct, deliver, export, ferry, fetch, for-
able. Opp a c c e pt e d . 2 argumentative, ward, import, move, send, shift, ship,
contentious, dialectic, litigious, shuttle, take, taxi, transfer, trans-
polemical, provocative. port. 2 convey a message, commun-
controversy n altercation, argu- icate, disclose, impart, imply,
ment, confrontation, contention, indicate, mean, relay, reveal, signify,
debate, disagreement, dispute, dis- tell, transmit.
sension, issue, polemic, quarrel, war convict n condemned person, crim-
of words, wrangle. inal, culprit, felon, malefactor,
convalesce vb get better, improve, prisoner, wrongdoer. • vb condemn,
make progress, mend, recover, recu- declare guilty, prove guilty, sentence.
perate, regain strength. Opp ACQUIT.
convalescent adj getting better, conviction n 1 assurance, certainty,
healing, improving, making pro- confidence, firmness. 2 religious con-
convince 84

viction. belief, creed, faith, opinion, nation, help, joint action, mutual
persuasion, position, principle, tenet, support, teamwork. Opp c o m pe t it io n .
view. cooperative adj 1 accommodating,
convince vb assure, inf bring round, comradely, constructive, hard-work-
convert, persuade, prove to, reassure, ing, helpful to each other, keen,
satisfy, sway, win over, convincing > obliging, supportive, united, willing,
PERSUASIVE. working as a team. 2 cooperative effort.
convulsion n 1 disturbance, erup- collective, combined, communal,
tion, outburst, tremor, turbulence, concerted, coordinated, corporate,
upheaval. 2 [medical] attack, fit, joint, shared.
paroxysm, seizure, spasm. cope vb get by, make do, manage,
convulsive adj jerky, shaking, spas- survive, win through, cope with t>
modic, inf twitchy, uncontrolled, ENDURE, MANAGE.
uncoordinated, violent, wrenching. copious adj abundant, ample, boun-
cook vb concoct, heat up, make, pre-
tifiil, extravagant, generous, great,
pare, warm up. □ bake, barbecue, boil, huge, inexhaustible, large, lavish, lib-
braise,brew, broil, casserole, coddle, fry, eral, luxuriant, overflowing, plenti-
grill, pickle, poach, roast, saute, scramble, ful, profuse, unsparing, unstinting.
simmer, steam, stew, toast, cook up > Opp SCARCE.
PLOT. copy n 1 carbon copy, clone, coun-
terfeit, double, duplicate, facsimile,
cooking n baking, catering, cook-
eiy, cuisine. fake, -forgeiy, imitation, likeness,
model, pattern, photocopy, print,
cool adj 1 chilled, chilly, coldish, iced, replica, representation, reproduc-
refreshing, unheated. > c o l d . Opp tion, tracing, transcript, twin, Xerox.
h o t . 2 calm, collected, composed, dig-
2 copy of a book, edition, volume. • vb
nified, elegant, inf laid-back, level- 1 borrow, counterfeit, crib, duplicate,
headed, phlegmatic, quiet, relaxed, emulate, follow, forge, imitate, pho-
self-possessed, sensible, serene, unex- tocopy, plagiarize, print, repeat,
cited, unflustered, unruffled, urbane. reproduce, simulate, transcribe.
> b r a v e . 3 [derog] aloof, apathetic, 2 ape, imitate, impersonate, mimic,
cold-blooded, dispassionate, distant, parrot.
frigid, half-hearted, indifferent, luke-
cord n cable, catgut, lace, fine, rope,
warm, negative, offhand, reserved,
inf stand-offish, unconcerned, strand, string, twine, wire.
unemotional, unenthusiastic, un- cordon n barrier, chain, fence, line,
friendly, uninvolved, unrespons- ring, row. cordon off > is o l a t e .
ive, unsociable, unwelcoming. Opp core n 1 centre, heart, inside, middle,
pa s s io n a t e . 4 [inj] cool customer. > in s o l - nucleus. 2 core of a problem, central
e n t . • vb 1 chill, freeze, ice, refriger- issue, crux, essence, gist, heart, ker-
ate. Opp h e a t . 2 cool your enthusiasm. nel, si nitty-gritty, nub.
abate, allay, assuage, calm, dampen, cork n bung, plug, stopper,
diminish, lessen, moderate, injpour corner n 1 angle, crook, joint.
cold water on, quiet, temper. Opp 2 bend, crossroads, intersection,
INFLAME. junction, turn, turning. 3 a quiet cor-
cooperate vb act in concert, collab- ner. hideaway, hiding-place, hole,
orate, combine, conspire, help each niche, nook, recess, retreat. • vb cap-
other, inf join forces, inf pitch in, inf ture, catch, trap.
play along, inf play ball, inf pull corporation n 1 company, concern,
together, support each other, unite, enterprise, firm, organization.
work as a team, work together. Opp 2 council, local government.
COMPETE. corpse n body, cadaver, carcass,
cooperation n assistance, collab- mortal remains, remains, skeleton, si
oration, cooperative effort, coordi- stiff.
 85 counterfeit
correct adj 1 accurate, authentic, cosmopolitan adj international,
confirmed, exact, factual, faithful, multicultural, sophisticated, urbane.
faultless, flawless, genuine, literal, Opp pr o v in c ia l .
precise, reliable, right, strict, true, cost n amount, charge, expenditure,
truthful, verified. 2 correct manners. expense, fare, figure, outlay, pay-
acceptable, appropriate, fitting, just, ment, price, rate, tariff, value. • vb be
normal, proper, regular, standard, valued at, be worth, fetch, go for,
suitable, tactful, unexceptionable, realize, sell for, inf set you back.
well-mannered. Opp w r o n g . • vb costume n apparel, attire, clothing,
1 adjust, alter, cure, inf debug, put dress, fancy-dress, garb, garments,
right, rectify, redress, remedy, repair. inf get-up, lively, outfit, period dress,
2 correct pupils' work, assess, mark. raiment, robes, uniform, vestments.
3 > REPRIMAND. > CLOTHES.
correspond vb accord, agree, be cosy adj comfortable, inf comfy, easy,
congruous, be consistent, coincide, homely, intimate, reassuring, relax-
concur, conform, correlate, fit, har- ing, restful, secure, snug, soft, warm.
monize, match, parallel, square, Opp UNCOMFORTABLE.
tally, corresponding > e q u iv a l e n t . council n committee, conclave, con-
correspond with communicate vention, convocation, corporation,
with, send letters to, write to. gathering, meeting. > a s s e mb l y .
correspondence n letters, mem- counsel n > l a w y e r . • vb advise, dis-
oranda, in/memos, messages, notes, cuss (with), give help, guide, listen
writings. to your views.
count vb 1 add up, calculate, check,
correspondent n contributor,
compute, enumerate, estimate, fig-
journalist, reporter. > w r it e r . ure out, keep account of, inf notch
corridor n hall, hallway, passage, up, number, reckon, score, take
passageway. stock of, tell, total, inf tot up, work
corrode vb 1 consume, eat into, out. 2 be important, have signi-
erode, oxidize, rot, rust, tarnish. ficance, matter, signify, count on
2 crumble, deteriorate, disintegrate, > EXPECT.
tarnish. countenance n air, appearance,
corrugated adj creased, inf crinkly, aspect, demeanour, expression, face,
fluted, furrowed, lined, puckered, features, look, visage. • vb > a ppr o v e .
ribbed, ridged, wrinkled. counter n 1 bar, sales-point, service-
point, table. 2 chip, disc, marker,
corrupt adj inf bent, bribable, crim- piece, token. • vb answer, inf come
inal, crooked, debauched, decadent, back at, contradict, defend yourself
degenerate, depraved, inf dirty, dis- against, hit back at, parry, react to,
honest, dishonourable, dissolute, rebut, refute, reply to, resist, ward
evil, false, fraudulent, illegal, im- off.
moral, iniquitous, low, perverted, counteract vb act against, annul,
profligate, rotten, sinful, uneth- be an antidote to, cancel out, coun-
ical, unprincipled, unscrupulous, terbalance, fight against, foil, inval-
unsound, untrustworthy, venal, idate, militate against, negate,
vicious, wicked. Opp h o n e s t . • vb neutralize, offset, oppose, resist,
1 bribe, divert, inf fix, influence, per- thwart, withstand, work against.
vert, suborn, subvert. 2 corrupt the counterbalance vb balance, com-
innocent, debauch, deprave, lead pensate for, counteract, counter-
astray, make corrupt, seduce, tempt, poise, counterweight, equalize.
cosmetics plur n make-up, toilet- counterfeit adj artificial, bogus,
ries. copied, ersatz, fake, false, feigned,
cosmic adj boundless, endless, infi- forged, fraudulent, imitation, make-
nite, limitless, universal. believe, meretricious, pastiche, inf
countless 86

phoney, inf pretend, inf pseudo, seek, solicit. 2 date, inf go out with,
sham, simulated, spurious, synthetic. make advances to, make love to, try
Opp g e n u in e . • vb copy, fake, falsify, to win, woo.
feign, forge, imitate, pretend, inf put courteous adj civil, considerate,
on, sham, simulate. gentlemanly, ladylike, urbane, well-
countless adj endless, immeasur- bred, well-mannered. > po l it e .
able, incalculable, infinite, innumer- courtier n attendant, follower, lady,
able, limitless, many, measureless, lord, noble, page, steward.
myriad, numberless, numerous, courtyard n court, enclosure, fore-
unnumbered, untold. Opp f in it e . court, patio, inf quad, quadrangle,
country n 1 canton, commonwealth, yard.
domain, empire, kingdom, land, cover n 11> c o v e r in g . 2 binding, case,
nation, people, power, principality, dust-jacket, envelope, file, folder,
realm, state, territory. 2 open coun- portfolio, wrapper. 3 camouflage,
try. countryside, green belt, land- cloak, concealment, cover-up, decep-
scape, scenery. tion, disguise, facjade, front, hiding-
couple n brace, duo, pair, twosome. place, mask, pretence, refuge,
• vb 1 combine, connect, fasten, sanctuary, shelter, smokescreen.
hitch, join, link, match, pair, unite, 4 air cover, defence, guard, protec-
yoke.' 2 > ma t e . tion, support. • vb 1 blot out, buiy,
coupon n tear-off slip, ticket, token, camouflage, cap, carpet, cloak,
voucher. clothe, cloud, coat, conceal, curtain,
courage n audacity, boldness, si disguise, drape, dress, encase,
bottle, bravery, daring, dauntless- enclose, enshroud, envelop, face,
ness, determination, fearlessness, hide, hood, mantle, mask, obscure,
fibre, firmness, fortitude, gallantry, overlay, overspread, plaster, protect,
inf grit, inf guts, heroism, indomit- screen, shade, sheathe, shield,
ability, intrepidity, mettle, inf shroud, spread over, surface, tile,
nerve, patience, inf pluck, prowess, veil, veneer, wrap up. 2 cover expenses.
resolution, spirit, si spunk, stoicism, be enough for, match, meet, pay for,
tenacity, valour, will-power. Opp suffice for. 3 talk covered many sub-
COWARDICE. jects. comprise, contain, deal with,
courageous adj audacious, bold, embrace, encompass, include, in-
brave, cool, daring, dauntless, deter- corporate, involve, treat.
mined, fearless, gallant, game, si covering n blanket, canopy, cap, car-
gutsy, heroic, indomitable, intrepid, pet, casing, cladding, cloak, coat,
lion-hearted, noble, inf plucky, res- coating, cocoon, cover, crust, facing,
olute, spirited, stalwart, stoical, film, incrustation, layer, lid, mantle,
stout-hearted, tough, unafraid, un- outside, pall, rind, roof, screen,
complaining, undaunted, unshrink- sheath, sheet, shell, shield, shroud,
ing, valiant, valorous. Opp c o w a r d l y . skin, surface, tarpaulin, top, veil,
course n 1 bearings, circuit, direc- veneer, wrapping. > b e d c l o t h e s .
tion, line, orbit, path, route, track, coward n inf chicken, craven,
way. 2 course of events, advance, con- deserter, runaway, inf wimp.
tinuation, development, movement, cowardice n cowardliness, deser-
passage, passing, progress, progres- tion, evasion, faint-heartedness, inf
sion, succession. 3 course of lectures. funk, shirking, spinelessness, timid-
curriculum, programme, schedule, ity. > FEAR. Opp COURAGE.
sequence, series, syllabus. cowardly adj abject, afraid, base,
court n 1 assizes, bench, court mar- chicken-hearted, cowering, craven,
tial, high court, lawcourt, magis- dastardly, faint-hearted, fearful, inf
trates’ court. 2 entourage, followers, gutless, inf lily-livered, pusillan-
palace, retinue. 3 > c o u r t y a r d . • vb imous, spineless, submissive, timid,
1 infa.sk for, attract, invite, provoke, timorous, unchivalrous, ungallant,
 87 creation
unheroic, inf wimpish, si yellow. > crater n abyss, cavity, chasm, hole,
FRIGHTENED. Opp COURAGEOUS. hollow, opening, pit.
cower vb cringe, crouch, flinch, crawl vb 1 clamber, creep, edge,
grovel, hide, quail, shiver, shrink, inch, slither, squirm, worm, wriggle.
skulk, tremble. 2 [infl be obsequious, cringe, fawn,
coy adj arch, bashful, coquettish, flatter, grovel, si suck up, toady.
demure, diffident, embarrassed, craze n diversion, enthusiasm, fad,
evasive, hesitant, modest, reserved, fashion, infatuation, mania, novelty,
reticent, retiring, self-conscious, obsession, passion, pastime, rage, inf
sheepish, shy, timid, unforthcoming. thing, trend, vogue.
Opp BOLD.
crack n 1 breach, break, chink, chip, crazy adj 1 berserk, crazed, deliri-
cleavage, cleft, cranny, craze, crevice, ous, demented, deranged, frantic,
fissure, flaw, fracture, gap, opening, frenzied, hysterical, insane, lunatic,
rift, rupture, slit, split. 2 > j o k e . • vb inf potty, inf scatty, unbalanced,
1 break, chip, fracture, snap, splin- unhinged, wild. > m a d . 2 crazy com-
ter, split. 2 > h it , s o u n d , crack up > edy. daft, eccentric, farcical, idiotic,
DISINTEGRATE. inf knockabout, ludicrous, ridiculous,
si wacky, zany. > a b s u r d . 3 crazy ideas.
craft n 1 handicraft, job, skilled
confused, foolish, ill-considered,
work, technique, trade. > c r a f t s ma n -
illogical, impractical, irrational,
s h ip , c u n n in g . 2 a sea-going craft. > v e s -
senseless, silly, unrealistic, unreas-
s e l . • vb > MAKE.
onable, unwise. > s t u pid . 4 > e n t h u -
craftsmanship n art, artistry, clev-
s ia s t ic . Opp s e n s ib l e .
erness, craft, dexterity, expertise,
handiwork, knack, inf know-how, creamy adj milky, oily, rich, smooth,
workmanship. > s k il l . thick, velvety.
crafty adj artful, astute, calculating, crease n corrugation, crinkle, fold,
canny, cheating, clever, conniving, furrow, groove, line, pleat, pucker,
cunning, deceitful, designing, devi- ridge, ruck, tuck, wrinkle. • vb crimp,
ous, inf dodgy, inf foxy, furtive, guile- crinkle, crumple, crush, fold, furrow,
ful, ingenious, knowing, machi- pleat, pucker, ridge, ruck, rumple,
avellian, manipulative, scheming, wrinkle.
shifty, shrewd, sly, inf sneaky, tricky, create vb old use beget, begin, be the
Wily. Opp HONEST, NAIVE. creator of, breed, bring about, bring
craggy adj jagged, rocky, rough, into existence, build, cause, com-
rugged, steep, uneven. pose, conceive, concoct, constitute,
cram vb 1 compress, crowd, crush, construct, design, devise, inf dream
fill, force, jam, overcrowd, overfill, up, engender, engineer, establish,
pack, press, squeeze, stuff. 2 > s t u d y . father, forge, form, found, generate,
cramped adj close, crowded, nar- give rise to, hatch, imagine, insti-
row, restricted, tight, uncomfortable. tute, invent, make up, manufacture,
Opp ROOMY. occasion, originate, produce, set up,
crane n davit, derrick, hoist. shape, sire, think up. > ma k e . Opp
crash n 1 bang, boom, clash, explo- DESTROY.
sion. > s o u n d . 2 accident, bump, col- creation n 1 beginning, birth, build-
lision, derailment, disaster, impact, ing, conception, constitution, con-
knock, pile-up, smash, wreck. 3 crash struction, establishing, formation,
on the stock market, collapse, depres- foundation, generation, genesis,
sion, failure, fall. • vb 1 bump, col- inception, institution, making, ori-
lide, knock, lurch, pitch, smash. > gin, procreation, production, shap-
h it . 2 collapse, crash-dive, dive, fall, ing. 2 achievement, brainchild,
plummet, plunge, topple. concept, effort, handiwork, inven-
crate n box, carton, case, packing- tion, product, work of art. Opp
case, tea-chest. DESTRUCTION.
creative 88

creative adj artistic, clever, fecund, ominous, scary, sinister, spine-chill-

fertile, imaginative, ingenious, ing, inf spooky, supernatural, threat-
inspired, inventive, original, positive, ening, uncanny, unearthly, weird.
productive, resourceful, talented. Opp crest n 1 comb, plume, tuft. 2 crest of
DESTRUCTIVE. aJiill. apex, brow, crown, head, peak,
creator n architect, artist, author, pinnacle, ridge, summit, top.
begetter, builder, composer, crafts- 3 badge, coat of arms, design, device,
man, designer, deviser, discoverer, emblem, heraldic device, insignia,
initiator, inventor, maker, manufac- seal, shield, sign, symbol.
turer, originator, painter, parent, crevice n break, chink, cleft, crack,
photographer, potter, producer, cranny, fissure, furrow, groove, rift,
sculptor, smith, weaver, writer. slit, split.
creature n beast, being, brute, mor- crew n band, company, gang, party,
tal being, organism. > a n ima l . team. > g r o u p .
credentials n authorization, docu- crime n delinquency, dishonesty, old
ments, identity card, licence, pass- use felony, illegality, law-breaking,
port, permit, proof of identity, lawlessness, misconduct, misdeed,
warrant. misdemeanour, offence, inf racket,
credible adj believable, conceivable, sin, transgression of the law, viola-
convincing, imaginable, likely, per- tion, wrongdoing. □ abduction, arson,
suasive, plausible, possible, reason- assassination, blackmail, burglary, extor-
able, tenable, thinkable, trustworthy. tion, hijacking, hooliganism, kidnapping,
Opp INCREDIBLE. manslaughter, misappropriation, mug-
credit n approval, commendation, ging, murder, pilfering, piracy, poach-
distinction, esteem, fame, glory, hon- ing, rape, robbery, shop-lifting,
our, inf kudos, merit, praise, pres- smuggling, stealing, terrorism, theft,
tige, recognition, reputation, status, treason, vandalism.
tribute. • vb 1 accept, believe, inf buy, criminal adj inf bent, corrupt, inf
count on, depend on, endorse, have crooked, culpable, dishonest, fe-
faith in, reckon on, rely on, subscribe lonious, illegal, illicit, indictable, law-
to, inf swallow, swear by, trust. Opp less, nefarious, inf shady, unlawful.
d o u b t . 2 credit you with sense, ascribe t> WICKED, w r o n g . Opp LAWFUL. • n inf
to, assign to, attach to, attribute to. baddy, convict, inf crook, culprit,
3 credit £10 to my account, add, enter. delinquent, desperado, felon, gang-
Opp DEBIT. ster, knave, lawbreaker, malefactor,
creditable adj admirable, com- miscreant, offender, outlaw, recid-
mendable, estimable, good, hon- ivist, ruffian, scoundrel, old use trans-
ourable, laudable, meritorious, gressor, villain, wrongdoer. □ bandit,
praiseworthy, respectable, well brigand, buccaneer, defaulter, gunman,
thought of, worthy. Opp u n w o r t h y . highwayman, si hoodlum, hooligan, pick-
credulous adj easily taken in, inf pocket, racketeer, receiver, swindler, thug,
green, gullible, inf soft, trusting, > CRIME.
unsuspecting. > n a iv e . Opp s c e pt ic a l . cringe vb blench, cower, crouch,
creed n belief, conviction, doctrine, dodge, duck, flinch, grovel, quail,
dogma, faith, principle, teaching, quiver, recoil, shrink back, shy away,
tenet. tremble, wince.
creek n bay, cove, estuary, harbour, cripple vb 1 disable, dislocate, frac-
inlet. ture, hamper, hamstring, incapa-
creep vb crawl, edge, inch, move citate, lame, maim, mutilate, para-
quietly, move slowly, pussyfoot, lyse, weaken. 2 damage, make
slink, slip, slither, sneak, steal, tip- useless, put out of action, sabotage,
toe, worm, wriggle, writhe. spoil, crippled > h a n d ic a ppe d .
creepy adj disturbing, eerie, fright- crisis n calamity, catastrophe, cli-
ening, ghostly, hair-raising, macabre, max, critical moment, danger, diffi-
 89
crowd
culty, disaster, emergency, predica- crooked adj 1 angled, askew, awry,
ment, problem, turning point. bendy, bent, bowed, contorted,
crisp adj 1 breakable, brittle, crackly, curved, curving, deformed, gnarled,
crispy, crunchy, fragile, friable, hard lopsided, misshapen, off-centre, tor-
and diy. 2 > b r a c in g , b r is k . tuous, twisted, twisty, warped, wind-
criterion n measure, principle, ing, zigzag. > INDIRECT. 2 > CRIMINAL.
standard, touchstone, yardstick. crop n gathering, harvest, produce,
critic n 1 analyst, authority, com- sowing, vintage, yield. • vb bite off,
mentator, judge, pundit, reviewer. browse, clip, graze, nibble, shear,
2 attacker, detractor. snip, trim. > c u t . crop up > a r is e .
critical adj 1 captious, carping, cen- cross adj bad-tempered, cantanker-
sorious, criticizing, deprecatoiy, ous, crotchety, inf grumpy, ill-tem-
depreciatory, derogatory, disapprov- pered, irascible, irate, irritable,
ing, disparaging, faultfinding, hyper- peevish, short-tempered, testy,
critical, judgemental, in/nit-picking, tetchy, upset, vexed. > a n g r y ,
derog Pharisaical, scathing, slighting, ANNOYED. Opp GOOD-TEMPERED. • U
uncomplimentary, unfavourable. Opp 1 intersection, X. 2 a cross to bear.
c o mpl ime n t a r y . 2 analytical, discern- affliction, burden, difficulty, grief,
ing, discriminating, intelligent, judi- misfortune, problem, sorrow, trial,
cious, perceptive, probing, sharp. tribulation, trouble, worry. 3 cross of
3 critical moment, basic, crucial, dan- breeds, amalgam, blend, combination,
gerous, decisive, important, key, cross-breed, half-way house, hybrid,
momentous, pivotal, vital. Opp u n im - mixture, mongrel. »vb 1 criss-cross,
po r t a n t . intersect, meet, zigzag. 2 cross a river.
criticism n 1 censure, condemna- bridge, ford, go across, pass over,
tion, diatribe, disapproval, dispar- span, traverse. 3 cross someone, annoy,
agement, reprimand, reproach, block, frustrate, hinder, impede,
stricture, tirade, verbal attack. 2 lit- interfere with, oppose, stand in the
erary criticism, analysis, appraisal, way of, thwart, cross out > c a n c e l .
appreciation, assessment, comment- cross swords > CONFLICT.
aiy, critique, elucidation, evaluation, crossing vb 1 bridge, causeway, fly-
judgement, valuation. over, ford, level-crossing, overpass,
criticize vb 1 belittle, berate, blame, pedestrian crossing, pelican cross-
carp, in/cast aspersions on, castigate, ing, stepping-stones, subway, under-
censure, old use chide, condemn, pass, zebra crossing. 2 sea crossing. >
complain about, deciy, disapprove JOURNEY.
of, disparage, fault, find fault with,
in/flay, inf get at, impugn, in/knock, crossroads n interchange, inter-
in/lash, in/pan, in/pick holes in, in/ section, junction.
pitch into, in/rap, rate, rebuke, rep- crouch vb bend, bow, cower, cringe,
rimand, satirize, scold, in/slam, inf duck, kneel, squat, stoop.
slate, snipe at. Opp pr a is e . 2 analyse, crowd n 1 army, assemblage, assem-
appraise, assess, evaluate, discuss, bly, bunch, circle, cluster, collection,
judge, review. company, crush, flock, gathering,
crockery n ceramics, china, crocks, horde, host, mass, mob, multitude,
dishes, earthenware, porcelain, pot- pack, press, rabble, swarm, throng. >
teiy, tableware, a basin, bowl, coffee- g r o u p . 2 a football crowd, audience,
cup, coffee-pot, cup, dinner plate, disk, gate, spectators. • vb assemble,
jug, milk-jug, mug, plate, Amer platter, bundle, cluster, collect, compress,
pot, sauceboat, saucer, serving dish, side congregate, cram, crush, flock,
plate, soup bowl, sugar-bowl, teacup, gather, get together, herd, huddle,
teapot, old use trencher, tureen. jam, jostle, mass, muster, overcrowd,
crook n 1 angle, bend, corner, hook. pack, in/pile, press, push, squeeze,
2 > CRIMINAL. swarm, throng.
crowded 90

crowded adj congested, cramped, crumbly adj friable, granular, pow-

full, jammed, inf jam-packed, dery. Opp SOLID.
jostling, overcrowded, overflowing, crumple vb crease, crinkle, crush,
packed, swarming, teeming, throng- dent, fold, mangle, pucker, rumple,
ing. Opp EMPTY. wrinkle.
crown n 1 circlet, coronet, diadem, crunch vb break, champ, chew,
tiara. 2 crown of a hill, apex, brow, crush, grind, masticate, munch,
head, peak, ridge, summit, top. • vb scrunch, smash, squash.
1 anoint, appoint, enthrone, install.
crusade n campaign, drive, holy
2 cap, complete, conclude, consum-
war, jehad, movement, struggle, war.
mate, culminate, finish off, perfect,
round off, top. crush n congestion, jam. > c r o w d .
crucial adj central, critical, decisive, • vb 1 break, bruise, compress,
essential, important, major, moment- crumple, crunch, grind, mangle,
ous, pivotal, serious. Opp u n impo r t a n t . mash, pound, press, pulp, pulverize,
crude adj 1 natural, raw, un-
shiver, smash, splinter, squash,
processed, unrefined. 2 crude work. squeeze. 2 crush opponents, humiliate,
amateurish, awkward, bungling, mortify, overwhelm, quash, rout,
clumsy, inartistic, incompetent, inel- thrash, vanquish. > c o n q u e r .
egant, inept, makeshift, primitive, crust n incrustation, outer layer, out-
rough, rudimentaiy, unpolished, side, rind, scab, shell, skin, surface.
unskilful, unworkmanlike. Opp > COVERING.
REFINED. 3 > VULGAR. crux n centre, core, crucial issue,
cruel adj atrocious, barbaric, bar- essence, heart, nub.
barous, beastly, bestial, bloodthirsty, cry n battle-ciy, bellow, call, cater-
bloody, brutal, callous, cold-blooded, waul, ejaculation, exclamation, hoot,
cold-hearted, diabolical, ferocious, howl, outcry, roar, scream, screech,
fiendish, fierce, flinty, grim, hard, shout, shriek, whoop, yell, yelp, yowl.
hard-hearted, harsh, heartless, hell- • vb bawl, blubber, grizzle, howl,
ish, implacable, inexorable, inhu- keen, shed tears, snivel, sob, wail,
man, inhumane, malevolent, weep, whimper, whinge. cry off >
merciless, murderous, pitiless, WITHDRAW, cry out > SHOUT.
relentless, remorseless, ruthless, crypt n basement, catacomb, cellar,
sadistic, savage, severe, sharp, spite- grave, sepulchre, tomb, undercroft,
ful, stem, stony-hearted, tyrannical, vault.
unfeeling, unjust, unkind, unmerci-
ful, unrelenting, vengeful, venom- cryptic adj arcane, cabbalistic,
ous, vicious, violent. Opp k in d . coded, concealed, enigmatic, eso-
cruelty n barbarity, bestiality, blood- teric, hidden, mysterious, mystical,
thirstiness, brutality, callousness, obscure, occult, perplexing, puzzling,
cold-bloodedness, ferocity, hard- recondite, secret, unclear, unintelli-
heartedness, heartlessness, inhu- gible, veiled. Opp in t e l l ig ib l e .
manity, malevolence, ruthlessness, cuddle vb caress, clasp lovingly,
sadism, savagery, unkindness, dandle, embrace, fondle, hold
viciousness, violence. closely, huddle against, hug, kiss,
cruise n sail, voyage. > t r a v e l . make love, nestle against, nurse, pet,
crumb n bit, bite, fragment, grain, snuggle up to.
morsel, particle, scrap, shred, sliver, cudgel n baton, bludgeon, cane,
speck. club, cosh, stick, truncheon. • vb bat-
crumble vb break into pieces, break ter, beat, bludgeon, cane, inf clob-
up, crush, decay, decompose, deteri- ber, cosh, pound, pummel, thrash,
orate, disintegrate, fall apart, frag- thump, inf thwack. > h it .
ment, grind, perish, pound, powder, cue n hint, prompt, reminder, sign,
pulverize. signal.
 91 current
culminate vb build up to, climax, cup n 1 beaker, bowl, chalice, glass,
conclude, reach a finale, rise to a goblet, mug, tankard, teacup, tum-
peak. > e n d . bler, wine-glass. 2 award, prize,
culpable adj blameworthy, criminal, trophy.
guilty, knowing, liable, punishable, cupboard n cabinet, chiffonier,
reprehensible, wrong. > d e l ib e r a t e . closet, dresser, filing-cabinet, food-
Opp INNOCENT. cupboard, larder, locker, sideboard,
culprit n delinquent, malefactor, wardrobe.
miscreant, offender, troublemaker, curable adj operable, remediable,
wrongdoer. > c r imin a l . treatable. Opp in c u r a b l e .
cult n 1 craze, fan-club, fashion, fol- curb vb bridle, check, contain, con-
lowing, devotees, party, school, trol, deter, hamper, hinder, hold
trend, vogue. 2 religious cult. > d e n o m - back, impede, inhibit, limit, moder-
in a t io n . ate, repress, restrain, restrict, sub-
cultivate vb 1 dig, farm, fertilize,
due, suppress. Opp e n c o u r a g e .
hoe, manure, mulch, plough, pre- curdle vb clot, coagulate, congeal, go
pare, rake, till, turn, work. 2 grow, lumpy, go sour, thicken.
plant, produce, raise, sow, take cut- cure n 1 antidote, corrective, med-
tings, tend. 3 cultivate a friendship. ication, nostrum, palliative, panacea,
court, develop, encourage, foster, fur- prescription, remedy, restorative,
ther, improve, promote, pursue, tiy solution, therapy, treatment. > me -
to achieve. d ic in e . 2 deliverance, healing, re-
covery, recuperation, restoration,
cultivated adj 1 agricultural,
revival. • vb alleviate, correct, coun-
farmed, planted, prepared, tilled.
teract, ease, inf fix, heal, help, mend,
2 > CULTURED.
palliate, put right, rectify, relieve,
cultivation n agriculture, agro- remedy, repair, restore, solve, treat.
nomy, breeding, culture, farming, Opp AGGRAVATE.
gardening, growing, horticulture, curiosity n inquisitiveness, interest,
husbandry, nurturing. interference, meddling, nosiness,
cultural adj aesthetic, artistic, civil- prying, snooping.
ized, civilizing, educational, elevat- curious adj 1 inquiring, inquisitive,
ing, enlightening, highbrow, im- interested, probing, puzzled, ques-
proving, intellectual. tioning, searching. 2 interfering,
culture n 1 art, background, civil- intrusive, meddlesome, inf nosy, pry-
ization, customs, education, learn- ing. 3 > s t r a n g e , be curious > pr y .
ing, mores, traditions, way of life. curl n bend, coil, curve, lank, loop,
2 > CULTIVATION. ringlet, scroll, spiral, swirl, turn,
cultured adj artistic, civilized, cul- twist, wave, whorl. • vb i bend, coil,
tivated, discriminating, educated, corkscrew, curve, entwine, loop,
elegant, erudite, highbrow, spiral, turn, twine, twist, wind,
knowledgeable, polished, refined, wreathe, writhe. 2 curl your hair.
scholarly, sophisticated, wellbred, crimp, frizz, perm.
well-educated, well-read. Opp ig - curly adj crimped, curled, curling,
nor ant . frizzy, fuzzy, kinky, permed, wavy.
cunning adj 1 artful, devious, dodgy, Opp STRAIGHT.
guileful, insidious, knowing, machi- current adj 1 alive, contemporaiy,
avellian, sly, subtle, tricky, wily. > continuing, existing, extant, fash-
c r a f t y . 2 adroit, astute, ingenious, ionable, living, modern, ongoing,
skilful. > c l e v e r . • n 1 artfulness, present, present-day, prevailing,
chicanery, craft, craftiness, deceit, prevalent, reigning, remaining, sur-
deception, deviousness, duplicity, viving, inf trendy, up-to-date. 2 cur-
guile, slyness, trickeiy. 2 cleverness, rent passport, usable, valid. Opp o l d .
expertise, ingenuity, skill. • n course, draught, drift, flow, jet,
curriculum 92

river, stream, tide, trend, undercur- tendent, warden, warder, inf watch-
rent, undertow. dog, watchman.
curriculum n course, programme of custody n 1 care, charge, guardian-
study, syllabus. ship, keeping, observation, posses-
curse n blasphemy, exclamation, sion, preservation, protection, safe-
expletive, imprecation, malediction, keeping. 2 in police custody, captivity,
oath, obscenity, profanity, swear- confinement, detention, imprison-
word. > e v il . Opp b l e s s in g . • vb blas- ment, incarceration, remand.
pheme, damn, fulminate, swear, custom n 1 convention, etiquette,
utter curses. Opp b l e s s , cursed > fashion, form, formality, habit, insti-
HATEFUL. tution, manner, observance, policy,
cursory adj brief, careless, casual, practice, procedure, routine, tradi-
desultory, fleeting, hasty, hurried, tion, usage, way, wont. 2 A shop needs
perfunctory, quick, slapdash, super- custom, business, buyers, customers,
ficial. Opp THOROUGH. patronage, support, trade.
curt adj abrupt, blunt, brief, brusque, customary adj accepted, accus-
concise, crusty, gruff, laconic, mono- tomed, common, commonplace, con-
syllabic, offhand, rude, sharp, short, ventional, established, everyday,
snappy, succinct, tart, terse, uncere- expected, fashionable, general, habit-
monious, uncommunicative, ungra- ual, normal, ordinary, popular,
cious. > RUDE. Opp EXPANSIVE. prevailing, regular, routine, tradi-
curtail vb abbreviate, abridge, break tional, typical, usual, wonted. Opp
off, contract, cut short, decrease, UNUSUAL.
diminish, inf dock, guillotine, halt, customer n buyer, client, consumer,
lessen, lop, prune, reduce, restrict, patron, purchaser, shopper. Opp
shorten, stop, terminate, trim, trun- SELLER.
cate. Opp EXTEND. cut n 1 gash, graze, groove, incision,
curtain n blind, drape, drapeiy, laceration, nick, notch, opening,
hanging, screen. • vb drape, mask, rent, rip, slash, slice, slit, snick, snip,
screen, shroud, veil. > h id e . split, stab, tear. > in ju r y . 2 cut in
curtsy vb bend the knee, bow, genu- prices, cut-back, decrease, fall, lower-
flect, salaam. ing, reduction, saving. • vb 1 ampu-
curve n arc, arch, bend, bow, bulge, tate, axe, carve, chip, chisel, chop,
camber, circle, convolution, cork- cleave, clip, crop, dice, dissect, divide,
screw, crescent, curl, curvature, cyc- dock, engrave, fell, gash, gouge,
loid, loop, meander, spiral, swirl, grate, graze, guillotine, hack, halve,
trajectory, turn, twist, undulation, hew, incise, knife, lacerate, lance,
whorl. • vb arc, arch, bend, bow, lop, mince, mow, nick, notch, open,
bulge, camber, coil, corkscrew, curl, pare, pierce, poll, pollard, prune,
loop, meander, snake, spiral, swerve, reap, rive, saw, scalp, score, sever,
swirl, turn, twist, wind. > c ir c l e . share, shave, shear, shred, slash,
curved adj concave, convex, convo- slice, slit, snick, snip, split, stab, sub-
luted, crescent, crooked, curvilinear, divide, trim, whittle, wound. 2 abbre-
curving, curvy, rounded, serpentine, viate, abridge, bowdlerize, censor,
shaped, sinuous, sweeping, swell- condense, curtail, digest, edit, pre-
ing, tortuous, turned, undulating, cis, shorten, summarize, truncate. >
whorled. r e d u c e , cut and dried > d e f in it e , cut
cushion n bean-bag, bolster, has- in > in t e r r u pt , cut off > r e mo v e , s t o p .
sock, headrest, pad, pillow. • vb cut short > CURTAIL.
absorb, bolster, deaden, lessen, mit- cutlery n inf eating irons. □ bread-
igate, muffle, protect from, reduce knife, butter-knife, carving knife, cheese
the effect of, soften, support. knife, dessert-spoon, fish knife, fish fork,
custodian n caretaker, curator, fork, knife, ladle, salad servers, spoon,
guardian, keeper, overseer, superin- steak knife, tablespoon, teaspoon.
93 cynical
cutter n oaxe, billhook, chisel, chop- series. 2 bicycle, inf bike, moped, inf
per, clippers, harvester, guillotine, lawn- motor bike, motor cycle, pennyfar-
mower, mower, saw, scalpel, scissors, thing, scooter, tandem, tricycle. • vb
scythe, secateurs, shears, sickle. > k n if e . t> TRAVEL.
cutting adj acute, biting, caustic, cyclic adj circular, recurring, repeat-
incisive, keen, mordant, sarcastic, ing, repetitive, rotating.
satirical, sharp, trenchant. t> h u r t - cynical adj doubting, inf hard,
ful . incredulous, misanthropic, mocking,
cycle n 1 circle, repetition, revolu- negative, pessimistic, questioning,
tion, rotation, round, sequence, sceptical, sneering. Opp o pt imis t ic .
 D
dabble vb 1 dip, paddle, splash, wet. denounce, doom, execrate, sentence,
2 dabble in a hobby, potter about, tin- swear at.
ker, work casually. damnation n doom, everlasting fire,
dabbler n amateur, dilettante, pot- hell, perdition, ruin. Opp s a l v a t io n .
terer. damp adj clammy, dank, dewy, drip-
dagger n bayonet, blade, old use dirk, ping, drizzly, foggy, humid, misty,
knife, kris, poniard, stiletto. moist, muggy, perspiring, rainy,
daily adj diurnal, everyday, quoti- soggy, steamy, sticky, sweaty,
dian, regular. unaired, unventilated, wet, wettish.
dainty adj 1 charming, delicate, Opp d r y . • vb 1 dampen, humidify,
exquisite, fine, graceful, meticulous, moisten, sprinkle. 2 > d is c o u r a g e .
neat, nice, pretty, skilful. 2 choosy, dance n choreography, dancing.
discriminating, fastidious, finicky, □ ball, barn-dance, ceilidh, disco, dis-
fussy, genteel, mincing, sensitive, cotheque, inf hop, inf knees-up, party,
squeamish, well-mannered. 3 a inf shindy, social, square dance. □ ballet,
dainty morsel, appealing, appetizing, ballroom dancing, break-dancing, coun-
choice, delectable, delicious. Opp try dancing, disco dancing, flamenco
CLUMSY, GROSS. dancing, folk dancing, Latin-American
dally vb dawdle, delay, inf dillydally, dancing, limbo dancing, morris dancing,
hang about, idle, linger, loaf, loiter, old-time dancing, tap-dancing. □ bolero,
play about, procrastinate, saunter, cancan, conga, fandango, fling, foxtrot,
old use tarry, waste time. gavotte, hornpipe, jig, mazurka, minuet,
dam n bank, barrage, barrier, dike, polka, polonaise, quadrille, quickstep,
embankment, wall, weir. • vb block, reel, rumba, square dance, tango, waltz.
check, hold back, obstruct, restrict, • vb caper, cavort, frisk, frolic, gam-
stanch, stem, stop. bol, hop about, jig, jive, jump, leap,
prance, rock, skip, joc trip the light
damage n destruction, devastation,
fantastic, whirl.
harm, havoc, hurt, injury, loss, mu-
tilation, sabotage. • vb 1 blemish, danger n 1 crisis, distress, hazard,
break, buckle, burst, inf bust, chip, insecurity, jeopardy, menace, peril,
crack, cripple, deface, destroy, dis- pitfall, trouble, uncertainty. 2 danger
able, disfigure, inf do mischief to, of frost, chance, liability, possibility,
flaw, fracture, harm, hurt, immob- risk, threat.
ilize, impair, incapacitate, injure, dangerous adj 1 alarming, break-
make inoperative, make useless, neck, inf chancy, critical, destructive,
mar, mark, mutilate, inf play havoc explosive, grave, si hairy, harmful,
with, ruin, rupture, sabotage, scar, hazardous, insecure, menacing, inf
scratch, spoil, strain, vandalize, nasty, noxious, perilous, precarious,
warp, weaken, wound, wreck, dam- reckless, risky, threatening, toxic,
aged > f a u l t y , damages > c o m - uncertain, unsafe. 2 dangerous men.
pe n s a t io n . damaging > h a r mf u l . desperate, ruthless, . treacherous,
damn vb attack, berate, castigate, unmanageable, unpredictable, viol-
censure, condemn, criticize, curse, ent, volatile, wild. Opp h a r ml e s s .
 95 deadlock
dangle vb be suspended, depend, date n 1 day. t> t im e . 2 date with a
droop, flap, hang, sway, swing, trail, friend, appointment, assignation,
wave about. engagement, fixture, meeting, ren-
dank adj chilly, clammy, damp, dezvous. out-of-date t> o b s o l e t e , up-
moist, unaired. to-date t> MODERN.

dappled adj blotchy, brindled, daunt vb alarm, depress, deter, dis-

dotted, flecked, freckled, marbled, courage, dishearten, dismay, intim-
motley, mottled, particoloured, idate, overawe, put off, unnerve.
patchy, pied, speckled, spotted, t> FRIGHTEN. Opp ENCOURAGE.
stippled, streaked, varicoloured, dawdle vb be slow, dally, delay, inf
variegated. dilly-dally, hang about, idle, lag
dare vb 1 gamble, have the courage, behind, linger, loaf about, loiter,
risk, take a chance, venture. 2 chal- move slowly, straggle, in/take it easy,
lenge, defy, provoke, taunt, daring t> inf take your time, trail behind. Opp
BOLD. HURRY.
dark adj 1 black, blackish, cheerless, dawn n day-break, first light, in/peep
clouded, cloudy, coal-black, dim, of day, sunrise. t> b e g in n in g .
dingy, dismal, drab, dreary, dull, day n 1 daylight, daytime, light.
dusky, funereal, gloomy, glowering, 2 age, epoch, era, period, time.
glum, grim, inky, moonless, murky,
overcast, pitch-black, pitch-dark, poet day-dream n dream, fantasy, hope,
sable, shadowy, shady, sombre, star- illusion, meditation, pipe-dream,
less, stygian, sullen, sunless, tene- reverie, vision, woolgathering. • vb
brous, unilluminated, unlighted, dream, fantasize, imagine, meditate.
unlit. 2 dark colours, dense, heavy, daze vb benumb, paralyse, shock,
strong. 3 dark complexion, black, stun, stupefy. t> a ma z e .
brown, dark-skinned, dusky,
swarthy, tanned. 4 t> h id d e n , my s t e r i - dazzle vb blind, confuse, disorient-
o u s . Opp LIGHT, PALE. ate. dazzling t> b r il l ia n t .
darken vb 1 become overcast, cloud dead adj 1 cold, dead and buried,
over. 2 blacken, dim, eclipse, deceased, departed, inf done for,
obscure, overshadow, shade. Opp inanimate, inert, killed, late, lifeless,
LIGHTEN. perished, rigid, stiff. Opp a l iv e . 2 dead
language, died out, extinct, obsolete.
darling n inf apple of your eye,
3 dead with cold, deadened, insens-
beloved, in/blue-eyed boy, dear, dear- itive, numb, paralysed, without feel-
est, favourite, honey, love, loved one,
ing. 4 dead battery, engine, burnt out,
pet, sweet, sweetheart, true love. defunct, flat, inoperative, not going,
dart n arrow, bolt, missile, shaft. • vb not working, no use, out of order,
bound, fling, flit, fly, hurtle, leap, unresponsive, used up, useless, worn
move suddenly, shoot, spring, inf out. 5 a dead party, boring, dull, mori-
whiz, in/zip. > d a s h . bund, slow, uninteresting. Opp l iv e l y .
dash n 1 chase, race, run, rush, 6 dead centre. t> e x a c t , dead person t>
sprint, spurt. • vb 1 bolt, chase, dart, c o r ps e , dead to the world t> a s l e e p .
fly, hasten, hurry, move quickly, deaden vb 1 anaesthetize, desens-
race, run, rush, speed, sprint, tear, inf itize, dull, numb, paralyse. 2 blunt,
zoom. 2 t> h it . check, cushion, damp, diminish,
dashing adj animated, dapper, hush, lessen, mitigate, muffle, mute,
dynamic, elegant, lively, smart, spir- quieten, reduce, smother, soften,
ited, stylish, vigorous. stifle, suppress, weaken.
data plur n details, evidence, facts, deadlock n halt, impasse, stalemate,
figures, information, statistics. standstill, stop, stoppage, tie.
deadly 96

deadly adj dangerous, destructive, debris n bits, detritus, flotsam, frag-

fatal, lethal, mortal, noxious, ter- ments, litter, pieces, remains, rub-
minal. > HARMFUL. Opp HARMLESS. bish, rubble, ruins, waste, wreckage,
deafen vb make deaf, overwhelm, debt n account, arrears, bill, debit,
deafening > l o u d . dues, indebtedness, liability, obliga-
tion, score, what you owe. in debt
deal n 1 agreement, arrangement, bankrupt, defaulting, insolvent.
bargain, contract, pact, settle- > POOR.
ment, transaction, understanding.
2 amount, quantity, volume. • vb decadent adj corrupt, debased,
1 allot, apportion, assign, dispense, debauched, declining, degenerate,
distribute, divide, inf dole out, give dissolute, immoral, self-indulgent.
out, share out. 2 deal someone a blow. Opp MORAL.
administer, apply, deliver, give, decay vb atrophy, break down, cor-
inflict, mete out. 3 deal in stocks and rode, crumble, decompose, degener-
shares, buy and sell, do business, ate, deteriorate, disintegrate, dis-
trade, traffic, deal with > ma n a g e , solve, fall apart, fester, go bad, go
TREAT. off, mortify, moulder, oxidize, per-
dealer h agent, broker, distributor, ish, putrefy, rot, shrivel, spoil, waste
merchant, retailer, shopkeeper, away, weaken, wither.
stockist, supplier, trader, tradesman, deceit n artifice, cheating, chicaneiy,
vendor, wholesaler. craftiness, cunning, deceitfulness,
dear adj 1 adored, beloved, close, dar- dishonesty, dissimulation, double-
ling, intimate, loved, precious, treas- dealing, duplicity, guile, hypocrisy,
ured, valued, venerated. > l o v a b l e . insincerity, lying, misrepresentation,
Opp h a t e f u l . 2 costly, exorbitant, pretence, sham, slyness, treachery,
expensive, high-priced, over-priced, trickeiy, underhandedness, untruth-
inf pricey. Opp c h e a p. • n > d a r l in g . fulness. > d e c e pt io n . Opp h o n e s t y .
death n 1 decease, demise, dying, deceitful adj cheating, crafty, cun-
loss, passing. > e n d . 2 casualty, fatal- ning, deceiving, deceptive, designing,
ity. put to death > e x e c u t e . dishonest, double-dealing, duplicit-
ous, false, fraudulent, furtive, hypo-
debase vb belittle, commercialize, critical, insincere, lying, secretive,
degrade, demean, depreciate, de- shifty, sneaky, treacherous, inf tricky,
value, diminish, lower the tone of, inf two-faced, underhand, unfaithful,
pollute, reduce the value of, ruin, untrustworthy, wily. Opp h o n e s t .
soil, spoil, sully, vulgarize.
deceive vb inf bamboozle, be an
debatable adj arguable, con- impostor, beguile, betray, blind,
tentious, controversial, controvert- bluff, cheat, inf con, defraud, delude,
ible, disputable, doubtful, dubious, inf diddle, double-cross, dupe, fool,
moot (point), open to doubt, open to inf fox, inf have on, hoax, hoodwink,
question, problematical, question- inf kid, inf lead on, lie, mislead, mys-
able, uncertain, unsettled, unsure. tify, inf outsmart, outwit, pretend,
Opp c e r t a in . swindle, inf take for a ride, inf take
debate n argument, conference, con- in, trick.
sultation, controversy, deliberation, decelerate vb brake, decrease
dialectic, discussion, disputation, dis- speed, go slower, lose speed, slow
pute, polemic. • vb argue, inf chew down. Opp ACCELERATE.
over, consider, deliberate, discuss, decent adj 1 acceptable, appropri-
dispute, inf mull over, question, ate, becoming, befitting, chaste,
reflect on, weigh up, wrangle. courteous, decorous, delicate, fitting,
debit vb cancel, remove, subtract, honourable, modest, polite, pre-
take away. Opp c r e d it . sentable, proper, pure, respectable,
97 decoy
seemly, sensitive, suitable, tasteful. decline n decrease, degeneration,
Opp in d e c e n t . 2 [inf] a decent meal. deterioration, diminuendo, down-
agreeable, nice, pleasant, satis- turn, drop, fall, falling off, loss, reces-
factory. t> g o o d . Opp BAD. sion, reduction, slump, worsening. •
deception n bluff, cheat, inf con, vb 1 decrease, degenerate, deterior-
confidence trick, cover-up, deceit, ate, die away, diminish, drop away,
fake, feint, inf fiddle, fraud, hoax, dwindle, ebb, fail, fall off, flag, lessen,
imposture, fie, pretence, ruse, sham, peter out, reduce, shrink, sink,
stratagem, subterfuge, swindle, trick, slacken, subside, tail off, taper off,
wile. t> DECEIT. wane, weaken, wilt, worsen. Opp
impr o v e . 2 decline an invitation, abstain
deceptive adj ambiguous, deceiv- from, forgo, refuse, reject, inf turn
ing, delusive, dishonest, distorted, down, veto. Opp a c c e pt .
equivocal, evasive, fallacious, false,
decode vb inf crack, decipher,
fraudulent, illusory, insincere, lying,
explain, figure out, interpret, make
mendacious, misleading, specious,
out, read, solve, understand, unravel,
spurious, treacherous, unreliable, unscramble.
wrong. Opp GENUINE.
decompose vb break down, decay,
decide vb adjudicate, arbitrate, disintegrate, go off, moulder,
choose, conclude, determine, elect, putrefy, rot.
fix on, judge, make up your mind,
opt for, pick, reach a decision, decorate vb 1 adorn, array, beau-
resolve, select, settle, decided t> d e f - tify, old use bedeck, colour, deck, inf
in it e .
do up, embellish, embroider, festoon,
garnish, make beautiful, ornament,
decipher vb disentangle, inf figure paint, paper, derog prettify, refurbish,
out, read, work out. t> d ec o d e. renovate, smarten up, spruce up,
decision n conclusion, decree, find- derog tart up, trim, wallpaper. 2 give
ing, judgement, outcome, result, rul- a medal to, honour, reward.
ing, verdict. decoration n 1 accessories, adorn-
decisive adj 1 conclusive, convin- ment, arabesque, elaboration,
cing, crucial, final, influential, pos- embellishment, finery, flourishes,
itive, significant. 2 decisive action. ornament, ornamentation, trap-
certain, confident, decided, definite, pings, trimmings. 2 award, badge,
determined, firm, forceful, forth- colours, medal, order, ribbon, star.
right, incisive, resolute, strong- decorative adj elaborate, fancy,
minded, sure, unhesitating. Opp non-functional, ornamental, ornate.
TENTATIVE. Opp FUNCTIONAL.
declaration n affirmation, an- decorous adj appropriate, becom-
nouncement, assertion, avowal, con- ing, befitting, correct, dignified, fit-
firmation, deposition, disclosure, ting, genteel, polite, presentable,
edict, manifesto, notice, proclama- proper, refined, respectable, sedate,
tion, profession, promulgation, pro- seemly, staid, suitable, well-behaved.
nouncement, protestation, revela- t> DECENT. Opp INDECOROUS.
tion, statement, testimony. decorum n correctness, decency,
deciare vb affirm, announce, assert,
dignity, etiquette, good form, good
attest, avow, broadcast, certify, manners, gravity, modesty, polite-
claim, confirm, contend, disclose, ness, propriety, protocol, respectabil-
emphasize, insist, maintain, make ity, seemliness.
known, proclaim, profess, pro- decoy n bait, distraction, diversion,
nounce, protest, report, reveal, show, enticement, inducement, lure, red
state, swear, testify, inf trumpet herring, stool-pigeon, trap. • vb
forth, witness. t> s a y . allure, attract, bait, draw, entice,
decrease 98

inveigle, lead, lure, seduce, tempt, deed n 1 accomplishment, achieve-

trick. ment, act, action, adventure, effort,
endeavour, enterprise, exploit, feat,
decrease n abatement, contraction,
performance, stunt, undertaking.
curtailment, cut, cut-back, decline,
2 B> DOCUMENT.
de-escalation, diminuendo, diminu-
tion, downturn, drop, dwindling, eas- deep adj 1 abyssal, bottomless, chas-
ing-off, ebb, fall, falling off, mic, fathomless, profound, unfath-
lessening, lowering, reduction, omable, unplumbed, yawning. 2 deep
shrinkage, wane. Opp in c r e a s e . • vb feelings, earnest, extreme, genuine,
1 abate, curtail, cut, ease off, lower, heartfelt, intense, serious, sincere.
reduce, slim down, turn down. 2 con- 3 deep in thought, absorbed, concen-
dense, contract, decline, die away, trating, engrossed, immersed, lost,
diminish, dwindle, fall off, lessen, preoccupied, rapt, thoughtful. 4 deep
peter out, shrink, slacken, subside, matters, abstruse, arcane, esoteric,
inf tail off, taper off, wane. Opp intellectual, learned, obscure, recon-
INCREASE. dite. > d if f ic u l t . 5 deep sleep, heavy,
sound. 6 deep colour, dark, rich,
decree;,n act, command, declaration, strong, vivid. 7 deep sound, bass,
dictate, dictum, directive, edict, booming, growling, low, low-pitched,
enactipent, fiat, injunction, judge- resonant, reverberating, sonorous.
ment, law, mandate, order, ordi- Opp SHALLOW, SUPERFICIAL, THIN.
nance, proclamation, promulgation,
regulation, ruling, statute. • vb com- deface vb blemish, damage, dis-
mand, decide, declare, determine, figure, harm, impair, injure, mar,
dictate, direct, ordain, order, pre- mutilate, ruin, spoil, vandalize.
scribe, proclaim, promulgate, pro- defeat n beating, conquest, down-
nounce, rule. fall, inf drubbing, failure, humili-
decrepit adj battered, broken down,
ation, inf licking, overthrow, inf
derelict, dilapidated, feeble, frail, put-down, rebuff, repulse, reverse,
infirm, ramshackle, tumbledown, rout, setback, subjugation, thrash-
weak, worn out. > o l d . ing, trouncing. Opp v ic t o r y . • vb
baulk, beat, best, be victorious over,
dedicate vb 1 commit, consecrate, check, checkmate, inf clobber, con-
devote, give, hallow, pledge, sanctify, found, conquer, crush, destroy, inf
set apart. 2 dedicate a book, address, flatten, foil, frustrate, get the better
inscribe, dedicated > k e e n , l o y a l . of, si hammer, inf lay low, inf lick,
dedication n 1 adherence, alle- master, outdo, outvote, outwit, over-
giance, commitment, devotion, come, overpower, overthrow, over-
enthusiasm, faithfulness, fidelity, whelm, prevail over, put down, quell,
loyalty, single-mindedness, zeal. repulse, rout, ruin, inf smash, stop,
2 inscription. subdue, subjugate, suppress, inf
thrash, thwart, triumph over,
deduce vb conclude, divine, draw trounce, vanquish, whip, win a vic-
the conclusion, extrapolate, gather, tory over. Opp l o s e , be defeated >
glean, infer, inf put two and two l o s e , defeated > u n s u c c e s s f u l .
together, reason, surmise, si suss out,
understand, work out. defect n blemish, computing bug,
deficiency, error, failing, fault, flaw,
deduct vb inf knock off, subtract, imperfection, inadequacy, irregular-
take away. Opp a d d . ity, lack, mark, mistake, shortcom-
deduction n 1 allowance, decrease, ing, shortfall, spot, stain, want,
diminution, discount, reduction, weakness, weak point. • vb change
removal, subtraction, withdrawal. sides, desert, go over.
2 conclusion, finding, inference, defective adj broken, deficient,
reasoning, result. faulty, flawed, infgone wrong, imper-
 99 defy
feet, incomplete, inf on the blink, define vb 1 be the boundary of,
unsatisfactory, wanting, weak. Opp bound, circumscribe, delineate,
PERFECT. demarcate, describe, determine, fix,
defence n 1 cover, deterrence, limit, mark off, mark out, outline,
guard, protection, safeguard, secur- specify. 2 define a word, clarify,
ity, shelter, shield. > b a r r ie r . 2 alibi, explain, formulate, give the mean-
apologia, apology, case, excuse, ing of, interpret, spell out.
explanation, justification, plea, definite adj apparent, assured, cat-
testimony, vindication. egorical, certain, dear, clear-cut, con-
defenceless adj exposed, helpless, fident, confirmed, cut-and-dried,
impotent, insecure, powerless, dedded, determined, discernible, dis-
unguarded, unprotected, vulnerable, tinct, emphatic, exact, explicit,
weak. express, fixed, indsive, marked,
noticeable, obvious, particular, per-
defend vb 1 cover, fight for, fortify, ceptible, plain, positive, predse, pro-
guard, keep safe, preserve, protect, nounced, settled, specific, sure,
safeguard, screen, secure, shelter, unambiguous, unequivocal, unmis-
shield, inf stick up for, watch over. takable, well-defined. Opp v a g u e .
2 argue for, champion, justify, plead
definitely adv beyond doubt, cer-
for, speak up for, stand by, stand up
tainly, doubtless, for certain, in-
for, support, uphold, vindicate. Opp
dubitably, positively, surely,
ATTACK.
unquestionably, without doubt,
defendant n accused, appellant, without fail.
offender, prisoner. definition n 1 clarification, elucida-
defensive adj 1 cautious, defend- tion, explanation, interpretation.
ing, protective, wary, watchful. 2 darity, clearness, focus, predsion,
2 apologetic, faint-hearted, self- sharpness.
justifying. Opp a g g r e s s iv e . definitive adj agreed, authoritative,
defer vb 1 adjourn, delay, hold over, complete, conclusive, correct, de-
lay aside, postpone, prorogue (par- risive, final, last (word), official, per-
liament), put off, inf shelve, suspend. manent, reliable, settled, standard,
2 > YIELD. ultimate, unconditional. Opp pr o v i-
deference n acquiescence, compli- s io n a l .
ance, obedience, submission. > deflect vb avert, deviate, divert, fend
RESPECT. off, head off, intercept, parry, pre-
vent, sidetrack, swerve, switch, turn
defiant adj aggressive, antagonistic,
belligerent, bold, brazen, challeng- aside, veer, ward off.
ing, daring, disobedient, headstrong, deformed adj bent, buckled, con-
insolent, insubordinate, mutinous, torted, crippled, crooked, defaced,
obstinate, rebellious, recalcitrant, disfigured, distorted, gnarled,
refractory, self-willed, stubborn, grotesque, malformed, mangled,
truculent, uncooperative, unruly, misshapen, mutilated, twisted, ugly,
unyielding. Opp c o o pe r a t iv e . warped.
deficient adj defective, inadequate, defraud vb inf con, inf diddle, em-
insufficient, lacking, meagre, scanty, bezzle, inffleece, rob, swindle. > c h e a t .
scarce, short, sketchy, unsatisfactory, deft adj adept, adroit, agile, clever,
wanting, weak. Opp a d e q u a t e , e x - dextrous, expert, handy, neat, inf
c e s s iv e . nifty, nimble, proficient, quick, skil-
defile vb contaminate, corrupt, ful. Opp CLUMSY.
degrade, desecrate, dirty, dishonour, defy vb 1 challenge, confront, dare,
foul, infect, make dirty, poison, pol- disobey, face up to, flout, inf kick
lute, soil, stain, sully, taint, tarnish. against, rebel against, refuse to obey,
degenerate 100

resist, stand up to, withstand. 2 representative, spokesperson. • vb

baffle, beat, defeat, elude, foil, frus- appoint, assign, authorize, charge,
trate, repel, repulse, resist, thwart, commission, depute, designate,
withstand. empower, entrust, mandate, nom-
degenerate adj > c o r r u pt . • vb inate.
become worse, decline, deteriorate, delegation n commission, deputa-
inf go to the dogs, regress, retrogress, tion, mission.
sink, slip, weaken, worsen. Opp delete vb blot out, cancel, cross out,
IMPROVE. cut out, edit out, efface, eliminate,
degrade vb 1 cashier, demote, eradicate, erase, expunge, obliterate,
depose, downgrade. 2 abase, brutal- remove, rub out, strike out, wipe out.
ize, cheapen, corrupt, debase, de-
humanize, deprave, desensitize, deliberate adj 1 arranged, calcu-
dishonour, harden, humiliate, mor- lated, cold-blooded, conscious, con-
tify. degrading > s h a me f u l . trived, culpable, designed, intended,
intentional, knowing, malicious,
degree n 1 calibre, class, grade, organized, planned, prearranged,
order, .'.position, rank, standard, preconceived, premeditated, pre-
standing, station, status. 2 extent, pared, purposeful, studied, thought
intensity, level, measure. out, wilful, worked out. 2 careful,
deify vb idolize, treat as a god, ven- cautious, circumspect, considered,
erate, worship. diligent, measured, methodical,
deign vb concede, condescend, orderly, painstaking, regular, slow,
demean yourself, lower yourself, thoughtful, unhurried, watchful. Opp
stoop, vouchsafe. HASTY, INSTINCTIVE. • Vb > THINK.
deity n creator, divinity, god, god- delicacy n 1 accuracy, care, clever-
dess, godhead, idol, immortal, ness, daintiness, discrimination,
power, spirit, supreme being. exquisiteness, fineness, finesse,
dejected adj depressed, discon- fragility, intricacy, precision, sens-
solate, dispirited, down, downcast, itivity, subtlety, tact. 2 delicacies to
downhearted, heavy-hearted, in low eat. rarity, speciality, treat.
spirits. > s a d . delicate adj 1 dainty, diaphanous,
delay n check, deferment, deferral, easily broken, easily damaged, eleg-
filibuster, hiatus, hitch, hold-up, ant, exquisite, feathery, fine, flimsy,
interruption, moratorium, pause, fragile, frail, gauzy, gentle, intricate,
postponement, setback, stay (of ex- light, sensitive, slender, soft, tender.
ecution), stoppage, wait. • vb 1 check, Opp t o u g h . 2 delicate work, accurate,
defer, detain, halt, hinder, hold over, careful, clever, deft, precise, skilled.
hold up, impede, keep back, keep Opp c l u ms y . 3 delicate flavour, colour.
waiting, make late, obstruct, post- faint, mild, muted, pale, slight,
pone, put back, put off, retard, set subtle. 4 delicate health, feeble, puny,
back, slow down, stay, stop, suspend. sickly, squeamish, unhealthy, weak.
2 be late, be slow, inf bide your time, 5 delicate problem, awkward, con-
dally, dawdle, inf dilly-dally, inf drag fidential, embarrassing, private,
your feet, inf get bogged down, hang problematical, prudish, inf sticky,
about, hang back, hang fire, hesitate, ticklish, touchy. 6 delicate handling.
lag, linger, loiter, mark time, pause, considerate, diplomatic, discreet,
inf play for time, procrastinate, stall, judicious, prudent, sensitive, tactful.
old use tarry, temporize, vacillate, Opp CRUDE.
wait. Opp HURRY. delicious adj appetizing, choice,
delegate n agent, ambassador, delectable, enjoyable, luscious, inf
emissary, envoy, go-between, legate, mouth-watering, inf nice, palatable,
messenger, nuncio, plenipotentiary, savoury, inf scrumptious, succulent,
 demonstration
tasty, tempting, toothsome, si delusion n dream, fantasy, hallu-
yummy. cination, illusion, mirage, miscon-
delight n bliss, delectation, ecstasy, ception, mistake, self-deception.
enchantment, enjoyment, felicity, delve vb burrow, dig, explore, inves-
gratification, happiness, joy, para- tigate, probe, research, search.
dise, pleasure, rapture, satisfaction. demand n old use behest, claim, com-
• vb amuse, bewitch, captivate, mand, desire, expectation, impor-
charm, cheer, divert, enchant, enrap- tunity, insistence, need, order,
ture, entertain, enthral, entrance, request, requirement, requisition,
fascinate, gladden, gratify, please, want. • vb call for, claim, ciy out for,
ravish, thrill, transport. Opp d is ma y . exact, expect, insist on, necessitate,
delighted > h a ppy , pl e a s e d . order, request, require, requisition,
delightful adj agreeable, attractive, want. > a s k . demanding > d if f ic u l t ,
captivating, charming, congenial, impo r t u n a t e , in demand > po pu l a r .
delectable, diverting, enjoyable, inf demean vb abase, cheapen, debase,
nice, pleasant, pleasing, pleasurable, degrade, disgrace, humble, humili-
rewarding, satisfying, spell-binding. ate, lower, make (yourself) cheap, inf
> BEAUTIFUL. put (yourself) down, sacrifice (your)
delinquent n culprit, defaulter, pride, undervalue, demeaning >
hooligan, lawbreaker, malefactor, SHAMEFUL.
miscreant, offender, roughneck, ruf- democratic adj 1 classless, egal-
fian, inf tear-away, vandal, wrong- itarian. 2 chosen, elected, elective,
doer, young offender. > c r imin a l . popular, representative. Opp t o t a l -
delirious adj inf beside yourself, it a r ia n .
crazy, demented, deranged, dis- demolish vb break down, bulldoze,
tracted, ecstatic, excited, feverish, dismantle, flatten, knock down,
frantic, frenzied, hysterical, incoher- level, pull down, raze, tear down,
ent, irrational, light-headed, ram- topple, undo, wreck. > d e s t r o y . Opp
bling, wild. > DRUNK, MAD. Opp SANE, BUILD.
SOBER. demon n devil, evil spirit, fiend, gob-
deliver vb 1 bear, bring, carry, cart, lin, imp, spirit.
convey, distribute, give out, hand demonstrable adj conclusive, con-
over, make over, present, purvey, firmable, evident, incontrovertible,
supply, surrender, take round, trans- indisputable, irrefutable, palpable,
fer, transport, turn over. 2 deliver a positive, provable, undeniable, un-
lecture, announce, broadcast, express, questionable, verifiable.
give, make, read. > s pe a k . 3 deliver a demonstrate vb 1 confirm, de-
blow, administer, aim, deal, direct, scribe, display, embody, establish,
fire, inflict, launch, strike, throw. evince, exemplify, exhibit, explain,
> HIT. 4 > RESCUE. expound, express, illustrate, indicate,
delivery n 1 conveyance, dispatch, manifest, prove, represent, show,
distribution, shipment, transmis- substantiate, teach, typify, verify.
sion, transportation. 2 a delivery of 2 lobby, march, parade, picket,
goods, batch, consignment. 3 delivery protest, rally.
of a speech, enunciation, execution, demonstration n 1 confirmation,
implementation, performance, pre- description, display, evidence, ex-
sentation. 4 childbirth, confinement, hibition, experiment, expression,
parturition. illustration, indication, manifestation,
deluge n downpour, flood, inunda- presentation, proof, representation,
tion, rainfall, rainstorm, rush, spate. show, substantiation, test, trial, ver-
• vb drown, engulf, flood, inundate, ification. 2 inf demo, march, parade,
overwhelm, submerge, swamp. picket, protest, rally, sit-in, vigil.
demonstrative 102

demonstrative adj affectionate, dent n concavity, depression,

effusive, emotional, fulsome, loving, dimple, dint, dip, hollow, indenta-
open, uninhibited, unreserved, unre- tion, pit. • vb bend, buckle,
strained. Opp RETICENT. crumple, knock in.
demote vb downgrade, put down, denude vb bare, defoliate, deforest,
reduce, relegate. Opp pr o mo t e . expose, remove, strip, unclothe,
uncover. Opp c l o t h e .
demure adj bashful, coy, diffident,
modest, prim, quiet, reserved, reti- deny vb 1 contradict, controvert, dis-
cent, retiring, sedate, shy, sober, agree with, disclaim, disown, dis-
staid. Opp CONCEITED. pute, gainsay, negate, oppose, rebuff,
refute, reject, repudiate. Opp a g r e e .
den n hideaway, hide-out, hiding- 2 begrudge, deprive of, disallow,
place, hole, lair, private place, refuse, withhold. Opp g r a n t , deny
retreat, sanctuary, secret place, shel- yourself > ABSTAIN.
ter. depart vb 1 abscond, begin a jour-
denial n abnegation, contradiction, ney, inf check out, inf clear off,
disavowal, disclaimer, negation, decamp, disappear, embark, emig-
refusal, refutation, rejection, renun- rate, escape, exit, go away, si hit the
ciation, repudiation, veto. Opp a d mis - road, leave, make off, inf make
s io n . tracks, inf make yourself scarce,
denigrate vb belittle, blacken the
migrate, move away, move off, inf
reputation of, criticize, decry, dis- push off, quit, retire, retreat, run
parage, impugn, malign, inf put away, run off, si scarper, si scram, set
down, inf run down, sneer at, speak forth, set off, set out, start, take your
slightingly of, traduce, inf turn your leave, vanish, withdraw. 2 > d e v ia t e .
departed > d e a d .
nose up, vilify. t> d e s pis e . Opp pr a is e .
department n 1 branch, division,
denomination n 1 category, class,
office, part, section, sector, subdivi-
classification, designation, kind, size, sion, unit. 2 [in/] not my department.
sort, species, type, value. 2 church, area, concern, domain, field, func-
communion, creed, cult, order, per- tion, job, line, province, responsibil-
suasion, schism, school, sect. ity, specialism, sphere.
denote vb be the sign for, designate, departure n disappearance, em-
express, indicate, mean, represent, barkation, escape, exit, exodus,
signal, signify, stand for, symbolize. going, retirement, retreat, with-
denouement n climax, inf pay-off, drawal. Opp ARRIVAL.
resolution, solution, inf sorting out, depend vb depend on inf bank on,
inf tidying up, unravelling. > e n d . be dependent on, count on, hinge
denounce vb accuse, attack verbally, on, need, pivot on, put your faith in,
betray, blame, brand, censure, com- inf reckon on, rely on, rest on, trust,
plain about, condemn, criticize, dependable adj conscientious, con-
declaim against, decry, fulminate sistent, faithful, honest, regular, reli-
against, inf hold forth against, able, safe, sound, steady, true,
impugn, incriminate, inform against, trustworthy, unfailing. Opp u n r e l i -
inveigh against, pillory, report, a bl e.
reveal, stigmatize, inf tell off, vilify, dependence n 1 confidence, need,
vituperate. Opp pr a is e . reliance, trust. 2 > a d d ic t io n .
dense adj 1 close, compact, concen- dependent adj dependent on
trated, heavy, impassable, impenet- 1 conditional on, connected with,
rable, inf jam-packed, lush, massed, controlled by, determined by, liable
packed, solid, thick, tight, viscous. to, relative to, subject to, vulnerable
Opp t h in . 2 t> STUPID. to. Opp in d e pe n d e n t . 2 dependent on
103 descend
drugs, addicted to, enslaved by, inf upset, weary. Opp c h e e r . 2 depress the
hooked on, reliant on. market, bring down, deflate, make
depict vb delineate, describe, draw, less active, push down, undermine,
illustrate, narrate, outline, paint, pic- weaken. Opp b o o s t , depressed,
ture, portray, represent, reproduce, depressing e > s a d .
show, sketch. depression n 1 in/blues, dejection,
deplete vb consume, cut, decrease, desolation, despair, despondency,
drain, lessen, reduce, use up. Opp gloom, glumness, heaviness, hope-
INCREASE. lessness, low spirits, melancholy,
misery, pessimism, sadness, weari-
deplorable adj awful, blameworthy,
ness. Opp h a ppin e s s . 2 cavity, concav-
discreditable, disgraceful, disrep-
ity, dent, dimple, dip, excavation,
utable, dreadful, execrable, lament-
hole, hollow, impression, indenta-
able, regrettable, reprehensible,
tion, pit, recess, rut, sunken area.
scandalous, shameful, shocking,
Opp b u m p. 3 economic depression.
unfortunate, unworthy. > b a d . Opp
decline, hard times, recession,
COMMENDABLE. Slump. Opp BOOM, HIGH.
deplore vb 1 grieve over, lament,
deprive vb deprive of deny, dispos-
mourn, regret. 2 > c o n d e m n .
sess of, prevent from using, refuse,
deploy vb arrange, bring into action, rob of, starve of, strip of, take away,
distribute, manage, position, use sys- withdraw, withhold, deprived >
tematically, utilize. POOR.
deport vb banish, exile, expatriate, deputize vb deputize for act as
expel, remove, send abroad, trans- deputy, act as stand-in for, cover for,
port. do the job of, replace, represent,
depose vb demote, dethrone, dis- stand in for, substitute for, take over
miss, displace, get rid of, oust, from, understudy.
remove, inf topple. deputy n agent, ambassador, assist-
deposit n 1 advance payment, down- ant, delegate, emissary, inf fill-in,
payment, initial payment, part-pay- locum, proxy, relief, replacement,
ment, retainer, security, stake. representative, reserve, second-in-
2 accumulation, alluvium, dregs, command, spokesperson, inf stand-
layer, lees, precipitate, sediment, silt, in, substitute, supply, surrogate,
sludge. • vb 1 drop, inf dump, lay understudy, vice-captain, vice-pres-
down, leave, in/park, place, precip- ident.
itate, put down, set down. 2 deposit derelict adj abandoned, broken
money, bank, pay in, save. down, decrepit, deserted, desolate,
depot n 1 arsenal, base, cache, dilapidated, forgotten, forlorn, for-
depository, dump, hoard, store, saken, neglected, overgrown, ruined,
storehouse. 2 bus depot, garage, head- run-down, tumbledown, uncared-for,
quarters, station, terminus. untended.
deprave vb brutalize, corrupt, derivation n ancestry, descent, ety-
debase, degrade, influence, pervert, mology, extraction, origin, root. >
depraved > c o r r u pt . BEGINNING.
depreciate vb 1 become less, derive vb acquire, borrow, collect,
decrease, deflate, drop, fall, go down, crib, draw, extract, gain, gather, get,
lessen, lower, reduce, slump, glean, inf lift, obtain, pick up, pro-
weaken. Opp a ppr e c ia t e . 2 > d is pa r a g e . cure, receive, secure, take, be
derived > o r ig in a t e .
depress vb 1 burden, cast down, dis-
courage, dishearten, dismay, dispirit, descend vb 1 climb down, come
enervate, grieve, lower the spirits of, down, drop, fall, go down, move
make sad, oppress, sadden, tire, down, plummet, plunge, sink, swoop
descendant 104

down. 2 decline, dip, incline, slant, fector, escapee, fugitive, outlaw,

slope. 3 alight, disembark, dismount, renegade, runaway, traitor, truant,
get down, get off. Opp a s c e n d , be turncoat.
descended ORIGINATE, descend on deserve vb be good enough for, be
> ATTACK. worthy of, earn, justify, merit, rate,
descendant n child, heir, scion, suc- warrant, deserving > w o r t h y .
cessor. Opp ANCESTOR, descendants design n 1 blueprint, conception,
family, issue, line, lineage, offspring, draft, drawing, model, pattern, plan,
posterity, progeny, old use seed. proposal, prototype, sketch. 2 mark,
descent n 1 declivity, dip, drop, fall, style, type, version. 3 arrangement,
incline, slant, slope, way down. Opp composition, configuration, form,
a s c e n t . 2 aristocratic descent, ancestry, pattern, shape. 4 wander without
background, blood, derivation, design, aim, end, goal, intention,
extraction, family, genealogy, hered- object, objective, purpose, scheme.
ity, lineage, origin, parentage, pedi- • vb conceive, construct, contrive,
gree, stock, strain. create, delineate, devise, draft, draw,
describe vb 1 characterize, define, draw up, fashion, form, intend,
delineate, depict, detail, explain, invent, lay out, make, map out, ori-
express, give an account of, narrate, ginate, outline, plan, plot, project,
outline, portray, present, recount, propose, scheme, shape, sketch,
relate, report, represent, sketch, think up. designing > c r a f t y , have
speak of, tell about. 2 describe a circle. designs > PLOT.
draw, mark out, trace. designer n architect, artist, author,
description n account, character- contriver, creator, deviser, inventor,
ization, commentary, definition, originator.
delineation, depiction, explanation, desire n 1 ache, ambition, appetite,
narration, outline, portrait, por- craving, fancy, hankering, hunger,
trayal, report, representation, sketch, inf itch, longing, requirement, thirst,
story, word-picture. urge, want, wish, yearning, inf yen.
descriptive adj colourful, detailed, 2 avarice, covetousness, cupidity,
explanatory, expressive, graphic, greed, miserliness, rapacity. 3 sexual
illustrative, pictorial, vivid. desire, ardour, libido, love, lust, pas-
sion. • vb ache for, ask for, aspire
desecrate vb abuse, contaminate, to, covet, crave, dream of, fancy,
corrupt, debase, defile, degrade, dis- hanker after, inf have a yen for, hope
honour, pervert, pollute, profane, for, hunger for, inf itch for, like, long
treat blasphemously, treat disres- for, lust after, need, pine for, prefer,
pectfully, treat irreverently, vandal- pursue, inf set your heart on, set
ize, violate, vitiate. Opp r e v e r e . your sights on, strive after, thirst
desert adj arid, barren, desolate, dry, for, want, wish for, yearn for.
infertile, isolated, lonely, sterile, desolate adj 1 abandoned, bare, bar-
uncultivated, unfrequented, unin- ren, benighted, bleak, cheerless,
habited, waterless, wild. Opp f e r t il e . depressing, deserted, dismal, dreary,
• n dust bowl, wasteland, wilderness. empty, forsaken, gloomy, inf god-for-
• vb 1 abandon, betray, forsake, give saken, inhospitable, isolated, lonely,
up, jilt, leave, inf leave in the lurch, remote, unfrequented, uninhabited,
maroon, quit, inf rat on, renounce, wild, windswept. 2 bereft, compan-
strand, vacate, inf walk out on, inf ionless, dejected, depressed, despair-
wash your hands of. 2 abscond, ing, disconsolate, distressed, forlorn,
decamp, defect, go absent, run away, forsaken, inconsolable, lonely,
deserted > EMPTY, LONELY.
melancholy, miserable, neglected,
deserter n absconder, absentee, solitary, suicidal, wretched. > s a d .
apostate, backslider, betrayer, de- Opp CHEERFUL.
 105
detain
despair n anguish, dejection, depres- away with, eliminate, eradicate,
sion, desperation, despondency, erase, exterminate, extinguish, ex-
hopelessness, pessimism, resigna- tirpate, finish off, flatten, fragment,
tion, wretchedness. > mis e r y . • vb get rid of, knock down, lay waste,
give in, give up, lose heart, lose hope, level, liquidate, make useless, nullify,
quit, surrender. Opp h o pe . pull down, pulverize, put out of
desperate adj 1 inf at your wits’ existence, raze, root out, ruin, sab-
end, beyond hope, despairing, incon- otage, sack, scuttle, shatter, smash,
solable, wretched. 2 desperate situ- stamp out, undo, uproot, vaporize,
ation. acute, bad, critical, dangerous, wipe out, wreck, write off. > d e f e a t ,
drastic, grave, hopeless, irretrievable, END, KILL. Opp CONSERVE, CREATE.
pressing, serious, severe, urgent. destruction n annihilation, dam-
3 desperate criminals, dangerous, fool- age, inf decimation, demolition,
hardy, impetuous, rash, reckless, depredation, devastation, elimina-
violent, wild. 4 > a n x io u s . tion, end, eradication, erasure, ex-
despise vb be contemptuous of, con- termination, extinction, extirpa-
demn, deride, disapprove of, disdain, tion, havoc, holocaust, liquidation,
feel contempt for, hate, have a low overthrow, pulling down, ruin, ruina-
opinion of, look down on, inf put tion, shattering, smashing, undoing,
down, scorn, sneer at, spurn, under- uprooting, wiping out, wrecking. >
value. > DENIGRATE. Opp ADMIRE. KILLING. Opp CONSERVATION, CREATION.
despondent adj dejected, depressed, destructive adj adverse, antagon-
discouraged, disheartened, down, istic, baleful, baneful, calamitous,
downcast, inf down in the mouth, catastrophic, damaging, dangerous,
melancholy, morose, pessimistic, deadly, deleterious, detrimental,
sad, sorrowful. > mis e r a b l e . devastating, disastrous, fatal, harm-
ful, injurious, internecine, lethal,
despotic adj absolute, arbitrary, malignant, negative, pernicious,
authoritarian, autocratic, dictatorial, pestilential, ruinous, violent. Opp
domineering, oppressive, totalitar- CONSTRUCTIVE.
ian, tyrannical. Opp d e mo c r a t ic .
detach vb cut loose, cut off, discon-
destination n goal, objective, pur- nect, disengage, disentangle, divide,
pose, stopping-place, target, ter- free, isolate, part, pull off, release,
minus. remove, segregate, separate, sever,
destined adj 1 foreordained, in- take off, tear off, uncouple, undo,
eluctable, inescapable, inevitable, unfasten, unfix, unhitch. Opp a t t a c h .
intended, ordained, predestined, pre- detached > a l o o f , impa r t ia l , s e pa r a t e .
determined, preordained, unavoid- detail n aspect, circumstance, com-
able. 2 destined to fail, bound, certain, plexity, complication, component,
doomed, fated, meant. element, fact, factor, feature, ingre-
destiny n chance, doom, fate, for- dient, intricacy, item, plur minutiae,
tune, karma, kismet, lot, luck, prov- nicety, particular, point, refinement,
idence. respect, specific, technicality.
destitute adj bankrupt, deprived, detailed adj inf blow-by-blow, com-
down-and-out, homeless, impecu- plete, complex, comprehensive,
nious, impoverished, indigent, insol- descriptive, exact, exhaustive, full,
vent, needy, penniless, poverty- derog fussy, giving all details, derog
stricken, inf skint. > po o r . Opp hair-splitting, intricate, itemized,
w ea l t h y. minute, particularized, specific. Opp
destroy vb abolish, annihilate, blast, GENERAL.
break down, burst, inf bust, crush, detain vb 1 arrest, capture, confine,
inf decimate, demolish, devastate, gaol, hold, imprison, intern. 2 but-
devour, dismantle, dispose of, do tonhole, delay, hinder, hold up,
detect 106

impede, keep, keep waiting, restrain, born, sure, tenacious, tough, un-
retard, slow, stop, waylay. wavering. Opp IRRESOLUTE.
detect vb ascertain, become aware deterrent n barrier, caution, check,
of, diagnose, discern, discover, curb, difficulty, discouragement, dis-
expose, feel, inf ferret out, find, hear, incentive, dissuasion, hindrance,
identify, locate, note, notice, observe, impediment, obstacle, restraint,
perceive, inf put your finger on, re- threat, inf turn-off, warning. Opp
cognize, reveal, scent, see, sense, ENCOURAGEMENT.
sight, smell, sniff out, spot, spy, detest vb abhor, abominate, despise,
taste, track down, uncover, unearth, execrate, loathe. > h a t e .
unmask.
detour n deviation, diversion, indir-
detective n investigator, policeman,
ect route, roundabout route, make a
policewoman, inf private eye, sleuth,
detour !> d e v ia t e .
inf snooper.
detract vb detract from diminish,
detention n captivity, confinement,
custody, imprisonment, incarcera- lessen, lower, reduce, take away
tion, internment. from.
deter vb check, daunt, discourage, detrimental adj damaging, delete-
dismay, dissuade, frighten off, rious, disadvantageous, harmful,
hinder, impede, intimidate, ob- hurtful, inimical, injurious, prejudi-
struct, prevent, put off, repel, send cial, unfavourable. Opp a d v a n t a g e o u s .
away, stop, inf turn off, warn off. devastate vb 1 damage severely,
Opp ENCOURAGE. demolish, destroy, flatten, lay waste,
deteriorate vb crumble, decay, level, obliterate, overwhelm, ravage,
decline, degenerate, depreciate, dis- raze, ruin, sack, waste, wreck. 2 >
integrate, fall off, get worse, inf go DISMAY.
downhill, lapse, relapse, slip, develop vb 1 advance, age, arise, inf
weaken, worsen. Opp impr o v e . blow up, come into existence, evolve,
determination n inf backbone, flourish, get better, grow, improve,
commitment, courage, dedication, mature, move on, progress, ripen.
doggedness, drive, firmness, forti- Opp r e g r e s s . 2 develop habits, acquire,
tude, inf grit, inf guts, perseverance, contract, cultivate, evolve, foster, get,
persistence, pertinacity, resolute- pick up. 3 develop ideas, amplify, aug-
ness, resolution, resolve, single- ment, elaborate, enlarge on, expati-
mindedness, spirit, steadfastness, ate on, unfold, work up. 4 business
derog stubbornness, tenacity, will- developed, branch out, build up, diver-
power. sify, enlarge, expand, extend, in-
determine vb 1 arbitrate, clinch,
crease, swell.
conclude, decide, establish, find out, development n 1 advance, better-
identify, judge, settle. 2 choose, ment, change, enlargement, evolu-
decide on, fix on, resolve, select. tion, expansion, extension, inf
3 What determined your choice? affect, forward march, furtherance, gain,
condition, dictate, govern, influence, growth, improvement, increase,
regulate. progress, promotion, regeneration,
determined adj adamant, assertive, reinforcement, spread. 2 happening,
bent (on success), certain, convinced, incident, occurrence, outcome,
decided, decisive, definite, dogged, result, upshot. 3 industrial develop-
firm, insistent, intent, derog ob- ment. building, conversion, exploita-
stinate, persistent, pertinacious, tion, use.
purposeful, resolute, resolved, deviate vb branch off, depart,
single-minded, steadfast, strong- digress, diverge, drift, err, go astray,
minded, strong-willed, derog stub- go round, make a detour, stray,
 107 dictatorial
swerve, turn aside, turn off, vary, devout adj God-fearing, godly, holy,
veer, wander. religious, sincere, spiritual. > pio u s .
device n 1 apparatus, appliance, Opp ir r e l ig io u s .
contraption, contrivance, gadget, dexterous adj adroit, agile, deft,
implement, instrument, invention, nimble, quick, sharp, skilful.
machine, tool, utensil. 2 dodge, expe- t> CLEVER. Opp CLUMSY.
dient, gambit, gimmick, manoeuvre, diabolical adj evil, fiendish, inhu-
plan, ploy, ruse, scheme, stratagem, man, satanic, wicked. > d e v il is h . Opp
stunt, tactic, trick, wile. 3 heraldic SAINTLY.
device, badge, crest, design, figure,
logo, motif, shield, sign, symbol, diagnose vb detect, determine, dis-
token. tinguish, find, identify, isolate,
name, pinpoint, recognize.
devil n demon, fiend, imp, spirit. The
diagnosis n analysis, conclusion,
Devil the Adversary, Beelzebub, the
explanation, identification, inter-
Evil One, Lucifer, Mephistopheles, inf pretation, opinion, pronouncement,
Old Nick, the Prince of Darkness, verdict.
Satan.
diagram n chart, drawing, figure,
devilish adj demoniac(al), demonic, flow-chart, graph, illustration, out-
diabolic(al), fiendish, helfish, impish, line, picture, plan, representation,
infernal, inhuman, Mephisophelian, sketch, table.
satanic. > e v il . Opp a n g e l ic .
dial n clock, digital display, face,
devious adj 1 circuitous, crooked, instrument, pointer, speedometer.
deviating, indirect, periphrastic, ram-
dialect n accent, argot, brogue, cant,
bling, round-about, sinuous, tortu-
creole, idiom, jargon, language,
ous, wandering, winding. 2 [derog]
patois, phraseology, pronunciation,
calculating, cunning, deceitful, evas-
register, slang, speech, tongue, ver-
ive, insincere, misleading, scheming, nacular.
inf slippery, sly, sneaky, treacherous,
underhand, wily. > d is h o n e s t . Opp dialogue n inf chat, inf chin-wag, col-
DIRECT. loquy, communication, conference,
conversation, debate, discourse, dis-
devise vb arrange, conceive, concoct, cussion, duologue, exchange, inter-
contrive, inf cook up, create, design, change, old use intercourse, meeting,
engineer, form, formulate, frame, oral communication, talk, inf tete-a-
imagine, invent, make up, plan, plot, tete.
prepare, project, scheme, think out,
think up, work out. diary n annals, appointment book,
calendar, chronicle, engagement
devoted adj committed, dedicated, book, journal, log, record.
enthusiastic, faithful, loving,
dictate vb 1 read aloud, speak
staunch, true, unswerving, whole-
slowly. 2 command, decree, direct,
hearted, zealous. > l o y a l . Opp d is -
enforce, give orders, impose, inf lay
l o y a l , HALF-HEARTED.
down the law, make the rules,
devotee n inf addict, aficionado, inf ordain, order, prescribe, state cat-
buff, enthusiast, fan, follower, si egorically.
freak, supporter. dictator n autocrat, inf Big Brother,
devotion n allegiance, attachment, despot, tyrant. > r u l e r .
commitment, dedication, devoted- dictatorial adj absolute, arbitrary,
ness, enthusiasm, fanaticism, fer- authoritarian, autocratic, inf bossy,
vour, loyalty, zeal. > l o v e , pie t y . despotic, dogmatic, dominant, dom-
devour vb consume, demolish, eat ineering, illiberal, imperious, in-
up, engulf, swallow up, take in. > tolerant, omnipotent, oppressive,
DESTROY, EAT. overbearing, repressive, totalitarian,
dictionary 108

tyrannical, undemocratic. Opp d e m o - mixed, multifarious, opposed, oppos-

c r a t ic . ite, inf poles apart, several, sundry,
unlike, varied, various. Opp s imil a r .
dictionary n concordance, glossary,
2 abnormal, altered, anomalous,
lexicon, thesaurus, vocabulary, word-
atypical, bizarre, changed, distinct,
book. distinctive, eccentric, extraordinary,
didactic adj instructive, lecturing, fresh, individual, irregular, new, ori-
pedagogic, pedantic. ginal, particular, peculiar, personal,
die vb 1 inf bite the dust, inf breathe revolutionary, separate, singular,
your last, cease to exist, come to the special, specific, strange, uncommon,
end, decease, depart, expire, fall, inf unconventional, unique, unortho-
give up the ghost, si kick the bucket, dox, unusual. Opp c o n v e n t io n a l .
lay down your life, lose your life, pass differentiate vb contrast, discrimi-
away, si peg out, perish, si pop off, si nate, distinguish, tell apart.
snuff it, starve. 2 decline, decrease,
die away, disappear, droop, dwindle, difficult adj 1 abstruse, advanced,
ebb, end, fade, fail, fizzle out, go out, baffling, complex, complicated, deep,
languish, lessen, peter out, stop, sub- inf dodgy, enigmatic, hard, in-
side, vanish, wane, weaken, wilt, tractable, intricate, involved, inf
wither. knotty, inf nasty, obscure, perplex-
ing, problematical, inf thorny, tick-
diet n fare, food, intake, nourish- lish, tricky. 2 arduous, awkward,
ment; nutriment, nutrition, susten- backbreaking, burdensome, chal-
ance. • vb abstain, inf cut down, deny lenging, daunting, demanding,
yourself, fast, lose weight, ration exacting, exhausting, formidable,
yourself, reduce, slim. gruelling, heavy, herculean, inf
differ vb 1 be different, be distinct, killing, laborious, onerous, punish-
contrast, deviate, diverge, show dif- ing, rigorous, severe, strenuous, tax-
ferences, vary. 2 argue, be at odds, be ing, tough, uphill. 3 difficult children.
at variance, clash, conflict, contra- annoying, disruptive, fussy, head-
dict, disagree, dispute, dissent, fall strong, intractable, obstinate,
out, inf have a difference, oppose obstreperous, refractory, stubborn,
each other, quarrel, take issue with tiresome, troublesome, trying, unco-
each other. Opp a g r e e . operative, unfriendly, unhelpful,
difference n 1 alteration, change, unresponsive, unruly. Opp c o o pe r -
a t iv e , EASY.
comparison, contrast, development,
deviation, differential, differenti- difficulty n adversity, challenge,
ation, discrepancy, disparity, dissim- complication, dilemma, embarrass-
ilarity, distinction, diversity, ment, enigma, inf fix, inf hang-up,
incompatibility, incongruity, incon- hardship, inf hiccup, hindrance,
sistency, modification, nuance, hurdle, impediment, inf jam, inf
unlikeness, variation, variety. Opp mess, obstacle, perplexity, inf pickle,
s imil a r it y . 2 argument, clash, conflict, pitfail, plight, predicament, problem,
controversy, debate, disagreement, puzzle, quandary, snag, inf spot,
disharmony, dispute, dissent, quar- straits, inf stumbling-block, tribula-
rel, strife, tiff, wrangle. Opp a g r e e - tion, trouble, inf vexed question.
me n t .
diffident adj backward, bashful, coy,
different adj 1 assorted, clashing, distrustful, doubtful, fearful, hes-
conflicting, contradictory, contrast- itant, hesitating, inhibited, insecure,
ing, deviating, discordant, dis- introvert, meek, modest, nervous,
crepant, disparate, dissimilar, private, reluctant, reserved, retiring,
distinguishable, divergent, diverse, self-effacing, sheepish, shrinking,
heterogeneous, ill-matched, incom- shy, tentative, timid, timorous, unad-
patible, inconsistent, miscellaneous, venturous, unassuming, undercon-
 109
dingy
fident, unsure, withdrawn. Opp c o n - fix, impasse, inf jam, inf mess, inf
f id e n t . pickle, plight, predicament, problem,
diffuse adj digressive, discursive, quandaiy, inf spot, stalemate.
long-winded, loose, meandering, diligent adj assiduous, busy, careful,
rambling, spread out, unstructured, conscientious, constant, devoted,
vague, inf waffiy, wandering. t> earnest, energetic, hardworking,
WORDY. Opp CONCISE. • vb t> SPREAD. indefatigable, industrious, meticu-
dig vb 1 burrow, delve, excavate, lous, painstaking, persevering, per-
gouge, hollow, mine, quarry, scoop, sistent, pertinacious, punctilious,
tunnel. 2 cultivate, fork over, inf grub scrupulous, sedulous, studious, thor-
up, till, trench, turn over. 3 jab, ough, tireless. Opp l a z y .
nudge, poke, prod, punch, shove, dilute vb adulterate, reduce the
thrust, dig out t> f in d , dig up dis- strength of, thin, water down,
inter, exhume. weaken. Opp c o n c e n t r a t e .
digest n t> s u mma r y . • vb 1 absorb, dim adj 1 bleary, blurred, clouded,
assimilate, dissolve, ingest, process, cloudy, dark, dingy, dull, faint,
utilize. t> e a t . 2 consider, ponder, fogged, foggy, fuzzy, gloomy, grey,
study, take in, understand. hazy, ill-defined, imperceptible,
digit n 1 figure, integer, number, indistinct, indistinguishable, misty,
numeral. 2 finger, toe. murky, nebulous, obscure, obscured,
dignified adj august, becoming, pale, shadowy, sombre, unclear,
calm, courtly, decorous, distin- vague, weak. 2 t> s t u pid . Opp b r ig h t .
guished, elegant, exalted, formal, • vb 1 blacken, cloud, darken, dull,
grand, grave, imposing, impressive, make dim, mask, obscure, shade,
lofty, lordly, majestic, noble, proper, shroud. 2 become dim, fade, go out,
refined, regal, sedate, serious, sober, lose brightness, lower. Opp b r ig h t e n .
solemn, stately, tasteful, upright. take a dim view t> d is a ppr o v e .
t> PROUD. Opp UNBECOMING. dimensions plur n capacity, extent,
dignitary n inf high-up, important magnitude, measurements, propor-
person, luminaiy, notable, official, tions, scale, scope, size. t> me a s u r e -
inf VIP, worthy. me n t .

dignity n calmness, courtliness, de- diminish vb 1 abate, become less,

corum, elegance, eminence, form- contract, curtail, decline, decrease,
ality, gloiy, grandeur, Lat gravitas, depreciate, die down, dwindle, ease
gravity, greatness, honour, import- off ebb, fade, lessen, inf let up, lower,
ance, majesty, nobility, propriety, peter out, recede, reduce, shorten,
regality, respectability, seriousness, shrink, shrivel, slow down, subside,
sobriety, solemnity, stateliness. t> wane, inf wind down. t> c u t . Opp
PRIDE. in c r e a s e . 2 belittle, cheapen, demean,
deprecate, devalue, disparage, min-
digress vb depart, deviate, diverge,
imize, undervalue. Opp e x a g g e r a t e .
drift, get off the subject, inf go off at
a tangent, inf lose the thread, ramble, diminutive adj microscopic, midget,
stray, veer, wander. miniature, minuscule, minute, tiny,
dilapidated adj badly maintained, undersized. t> s ma l l .
broken down, crumbling, decayed, din n blaring, clamour, clangour,
decrepit, derelict, falling apart, clatter, commotion, crash, hub-
falling down, in disrepair, in ruins, bub, hullabaloo, noise, outciy, pan-
neglected, ramshackle, rickety, demonium, racket, roar, row, rum-
ruined, inf run-down, shaky, totter- pus, shouting, tumult, uproar. t>
ing, tumbledown, uncared-for. SOUND.
dilemma n inf catch-22, deadlock, dingy adj colourless, dark, depress-
difficulty, doubt, embarrassment, inf ing, dim, dirty, discoloured, dismal,
dining-room 110

drab, dreary, dull, faded, gloomy, intend, supervise, take charge of.
grimy, murky, old, seedy, shabby, 4 direct someone to do something.
smoky, soiled, sooty, worn. Opp advise, bid, charge, command, coun-
BRIGHT. sel, enjoin, instruct, order, require,
dining-room n cafeteria, carvery, tell.
refectory, restaurant. direction n aim, approach, (com-
dinner n banquet, feast. > me a l . pass) bearing, course, orientation,
path, point of the compass, road,
dip n 1 concavity, declivity, dent,
route, tack, track, way. directions
depression, fall, hole, hollow, incline, guidance, guidelines, instructions,
slope. 2 dip in the sea. bathe, dive, orders, plans.
immersion, plunge, soaking, swim.
• vb 1 decline, descend, dive, fall, go director n administrator, inf boss,
down, sag, sink, slope down, slump, executive, governor, manager, man-
subside. 2 douse, drop, duck, dunk, aging director, organizer, president,
immerse, lower, plunge, submerge, principal. > c h ie f .
take a dip > b a t h e .
directory n catalogue, index, list,
diplomacy n adroitness, delicacy, register.
discretion, finesse, negotiation, skill,
tact, tactfulness. dirt n 1 dust, excrement, filth,
diplomat n ambassador, consul, gov-
garbage, grime, impurity, mess,
mire, muck, ooze, ordure, pollution,
ernment representative, negotiator,
slime, sludge, smut, soot, stain.
official, peacemaker, politician, rep-
> o b s c e n it y , r u b b is h . 2 clay, earth,
resentative, tactician.
loam, mud, soil.
diplomatic adj careful, considerate,
delicate, discreet, judicious, polite, dirty adj 1 befouled, begrimed,
politic, prudent, sensitive, subtle, besmirched, bespattered, black,
tactful, thoughtful, understanding. dingy, dusty, filthy, foul, grimy,
Opp TACTLESS. grubby, marked, messy, mucky,
muddy, nasty, scruffy, shabby, slat-
direct adj 1 non-stop, shortest,
ternly, smeary, smudged, soiled,
straight, unbroken, undeviating, sooty, sordid, spotted, squalid,
uninterrupted, unswerving. 2 blunt, stained, sullied, tarnished, travel-
candid, categorical, clear, decided, stained, uncared for, unclean,
explicit, express, forthright, frank, untidy, unwashed. 2 dirty water.
honest, open, outspoken, plain, cloudy, contaminated, impure,
point-blank, sincere, straightforward, muddy, murky, poisoned, polluted,
derog tactless, to the point, unam-
tainted, untreated. 3 dirty tactics, dis-
biguous, uncomplicated, derog un- honest, dishonourable, illegal, inf
diplomatic, unequivocal, uninhib- low-down, mean, rough, treacherous,
ited, unqualified, unreserved. 3 direct unfair, ungentlemanly, unscrupu-
experience, empirical, firsthand, inf
lous, unsporting, unsportsmanlike.
from the horse’s mouth, personal.
> c o r r u pt . 4 dirty talk, coarse, crude,
4 direct opposites, absolute, complete,
improper, indecent, offensive, rude,
diametrical, exact, head-on, inf out-
smutty, vulgar. > o b s c e n e . Opp c l e a n .
and-out, utter. Opp in d ir e c t . • vb
• vb befoul, foul, make dirty, mark,
1 address, escort, guide, indicate the
inf mess up, smear, smudge, soil,
way, point, route, send, show the
spatter, spot, stain, streak, tarnish. >
way, tell the way, usher. 2 aim, focus, DEFILE. Opp CLEAN.
level, target, train, turn. 3 adminis-
ter, be in charge of, command, con- disability n affliction, complaint,
duct, control, govern, handle, lead, defect, disablement, handicap,
manage, mastermind, oversee, regu- impairment, incapacity, infirmity,
late, rule, run, stage-manage, super- weakness.
 Ill discharge
disable vb cripple, damage, debilit- disapprove vb disapprove of be dis-
ate, enfeeble, inf hamstring, handi- pleased by, belittle, blame, censure,
cap, immobilize, impair, incapa- condemn, criticize, denounce,
citate, injure, lame, maim, make deplore, deprecate, dislike, dispar-
useless, mutilate, paralyse, put out age, frown on, jeer at, look askance
of action, ruin, weaken, disabled > at, make unwelcome, object to,
HANDICAPPED. regret, reject, inf take a dim view of,
disadvantage n drawback, handi- take exception to. Opp a ppr o v e , dis-
cap, hardship, hindrance, impedi- approving > CRITICAL.
ment, inconvenience, liability, inf disarm vb 1 demilitarize, demobil-
minus, nuisance, privation, snag, ize, disband troops, make powerless,
trouble, weakness. take weapons from. 2 charm, mol-
disagree vb argue, bicker, clash, lify, pacify, placate.
conflict, contend, differ, dispute, dis- disaster n accident, act of God,
sent, diverge, fall out, fight, quarrel, blow, calamity, cataclysm, cata-
squabble, wrangle, disagree with > strophe, crash, debacle, failure,
OPPOSE. fiasco, inf flop, inf mess-up, misad-
venture, mischance, misfortune,
disagreeable adj disgusting, dis-
mishap, reverse, tragedy, inf wash-
tasteful, nasty, objectionable, ob-
out. Opp SUCCESS.
noxious, offensive, inf off-putting,
repellent, sickening, unsavoury. > disastrous adj appalling, awful,
UNPLEASANT. Opp PLEASANT. calamitous, cataclysmic, cata-
strophic, crippling, destructive, dev-
disagreement n altercation, argu-
astating, dire, dreadful, fatal,
ment, clash, conflict, contention, ruinous, terrible, tragic. Opp s u c c e s s -
controversy, debate, difference, dis- ful .
crepancy, disharmony, disparity, dis-
pute, dissension, dissent, divergence, disbelieve vb be sceptical of, dis-
incompatibility, inconsistency, mis- count, discredit, doubt, have no faith
understanding, opposition, quarrel, in, mistrust, reject, suspect. Opp
squabble, strife, inf tiff, variance, b e l ie v e , disbelieving > in c r e d u l o u s .
wrangle. Opp a g r e e me n t . disc n 1 circle, counter, plate, token.
2 album, CD, LP, record, single.
disappear vb 1 become invisible,
3 [computing] CD-ROM, disk, diskette,
cease to exist, clear, die out, disperse,
dissolve, dwindle, ebb, evanesce, floppy disk, hard disk.
evaporate, fade, melt away, recede, discard vb abandon, cast off, inf
vanish, vaporize, wane. > d ie . chuck away, dispense with, dispose
2 depart, escape, flee, fly, go, pass of, inf ditch, dump, eliminate, get rid
out of sight, run away, walk away, of, jettison, junk, reject, scrap, shed,
withdraw. Opp a ppe a r . throw away, toss out.
disappoint vb be worse than discern vb be aware of, be sensitive
expected, chagrin, inf dash your to, detect, discover, discriminate, dis-
hopes, disenchant, disillusion, dis- tinguish, make out, mark, notice,
may, displease, dissatisfy, fail to sat- observe, perceive, recognize, spy. >
isfy, inf let down, upset, vex. > s e e . discerning > pe r c e pt iv e .
f r u s t r a t e . Opp s a t is f y , disappointed discernible adj detectable, distin-
disillusioned, frustrated, inf let down, guishable, measurable, perceptible.
unsatisfied. > s a d . > NOTICEABLE.
disapproval n anger, censure, con- discharge n 1 release, dismissal.
demnation, criticism, disapproba- 2 emission, excretion, ooze, pus,
tion, disfavour, dislike, displeasure, secretion, suppuration. • vb 1 belch,
dissatisfaction, hostility, reprimand, eject, emit, expel, exude, give off,
reproach. Opp a ppr o v a l . give out, pour out, produce, release,
disciple 112

secrete, send out, spew, spit out. uncouple, undo, unhitch, unhook,
2 discharge guns, detonate, explode, unplug, disconnected > in c o h e r e n t .
fire, let off, shoot. 3 discharge em- discontented adj annoyed, dis-
ployees. dismiss, fire, make redund- gruntled, displeased, dissatisfied, inf
ant, remove, sack, throw out. 4 dis- fed up, restless, sulky, unhappy,
charge a prisoner, absolve, acquit, unsettled.
allow to leave, clear, dismiss, excuse,
discord n 1 argument, conflict, con-
exonerate, free, let off, liberate,
pardon, release. 5 discharge duties, ac- tention, difference of opinion, dis-
complish, cany out, execute, fulfil, agreement, disharmony, dispute,
perform. friction, incompatibility, strife. >
q u a r r e l . 2 [music] cacophony, clash,
disciple n acolyte, adherent, ad- jangle. > n o is e . Opp h a r mo n y .
mirer, apostle, apprentice, devotee,
follower, learner, proselyte, pupil, discordant adj 1 conflicting, con-
scholar, student, supporter. trary, differing, disagreeing, dis-
similar, divergent, incompatible,
disciplinarian n authoritarian, incongruous, inconsistent, opposed,
autocrat, despot, dictator, inf hard- opposite. > q u a r r e l s o m e . 2 atonal,
liner, tnf hard taskmaster, martinet, cacophonous, clashing, dissonant,
inf slave-driver, inf stickler, tyrant. grating, grinding, harsh, jangling,
discipline n 1 control, drilling, jarring, shrill, strident, tuneless,
indoctrination, instruction, manage- unmusical. Opp h a r m o n io u s .
ment, strictness, system, training. discount n abatement, allowance,
2 good behaviour, obedience, order,
concession, cut, deduction, inf mark-
orderliness, routine, self-control, self- down, rebate, reduction. • vb disbe-
restraint. • vb 1 break in, coach, lieve, dismiss, disregard, gloss over,
control, drill, educate, govern, ignore, overlook, reject.
indoctrinate, instruct, keep in check,
manage, restrain, school, train. 2 cas- discourage vb 1 cow, damp,
tigate, chasten, chastise, correct, dampen, daunt, demoralize, depress,
penalize, punish, rebuke, reprimand, disenchant, dishearten, dismay,
reprove, scold, disciplined > o b e d ie n t . dispirit, frighten, inhibit, intimidate,
overawe, inf put down, inf put off,
disclaim vb deny, disown, forswear,
scare, inf throw cold water on,
reject, renounce, repudiate. Opp
unman, unnerve. 2 discourage vandal-
ACKNOWLEDGE.
ism. check, deflect, deter, dissuade,
disclose vb divulge, expose, let out, hinder, prevent, put an end to,
make known. t> r e v e a l . repress, restrain, slow down, stop,
discolour vb bleach, dirty, fade, suppress. Opp e n c o u r a g e .
mark, spoil the colour of, stain, tar- discouragement n constraint, inf
nish, tinge. damper, deterrent, disincentive,
discomfort n ache, care, difficulty, hindrance, impediment, obstacle,
distress, hardship, inconvenience, restraint, setback. Opp e n c o u r a g e me n t .
irritation, soreness, uncomfortable- discourse n 1 > c o n v e r s a t io n . 2 dis-
ness, uneasiness. t> pa in . Opp c o mf o r t . sertation, essay, monograph, paper,
disconcert vb agitate, bewilder, con- speech, thesis, treatise. > w r it in g .
fuse, discomfit, distract, disturb, flus- • vb > SPEAK.
ter, nonplus, perplex, inf put off, discover vb ascertain, bring to light,
puzzle, inf rattle, ruffle, throw off come across, detect, inf dig up, dis-
balance, trouble, unsettle, upset, close, inf dredge up, explore, expose,
worry. Opp r e a s s u r e . inf ferret out, find, hit on, identify,
disconnect vb break off, cut off, learn, light upon, locate, notice,
detach, disengage, divide, part, sever, observe, perceive, recognize, reveal,
switch off, take away, turn off, search out, spot, si sus out, track
 113
disgust
down, turn up, uncover, unearth. > discussion n argument, colloquy,
INVENT. Opp HIDE. confabulation, conference, consid-
discoverer n creator, explorer, eration, consultation, conversa-
finder, initiator, inventor, origin- tion, debate, deliberation, dialogue,
ator, pioneer, traveller. discourse, examination, exchange
discovery n breakthrough, concep- of views, inf powwow, symposium.
tion, detection, disclosure, ex- > TALK.
ploration, inf find, innovation, disdainful adj contemptuous, jeer-
invention, recognition, revelation. ing, mocking, scornful, sneering,
supercilious, superior. > pr o u d .
discredit vb attack, calumniate,
challenge, defame, disbelieve, dis- disease n affliction, ailment, blight,
grace, dishonour, disprove, inf inf bug, complaint, inf condition, con-
explode, prove false, raise doubts tagion, disorder, infection, infirmity,
about, refuse to believe, ruin the malady, plague, sickness. > il l n e s s .
reputation of, show up, slander, slur, diseased adj ailing, infirm, sick,
smear, vilify. unwell. > il l .
discreet adj careful, cautious, chaiy, disembark vb alight, debark,
circumspect, considerate, delicate, detrain, get off, go ashore, land. Opp
diplomatic, guarded, judicious, low- EMBARK.
key, mild, muted, polite, politic, pru- disfigure vb blemish, damage,
dent, restrained, sensitive, soft, deface, deform, distort, impair,
subdued, tactful, thoughtful, under- injure, make ugly, mar, mutilate,
stated, waiy. Opp INDISCREET. ruin, scar, spoil. Opp b e a u t if y .
discrepancy n conflict, difference, disgrace n 1 blot, contumely, de-
disparity, dissimilarity, divergence, gradation, discredit, dishonour,
incompatibility, incongruity, incon- disrepute, embarrassment, humili-
sistency, variance. Opp s imil a r it y . ation, ignominy, obloquy, odium,
discretion n circumspection, diplo- opprobrium, scandal, shame, slur,
macy, good sense, judgement, ma- stain, stigma. 2 > o u t r a g e .
turity, prudence, responsibility, disgraceful adj contemptible,
sensitivity, tact, wisdom. Opp t a c t - degrading, dishonourable, embar-
l essn ess. rassing, humiliating, ignominious,
discriminate vb 1 differentiate, dis- shameful, shaming, wicked. > b a d .
tinguish, draw a distinction, sep- disgruntled adj annoyed, cross, dis-
arate, tell apart. 2 be biased, be affected, disappointed, discontented,
intolerant, be prejudiced, show dis- dissatisfied, inf fed up, grumpy,
crimination. discriminating > pe r - moody, sulky, sullen. > b a d -t e mpe r e d .
c e pt iv e . disguise n camouflage, cloak, cos-
discrimination n 1 discernment, tume, cover, fancy dress, front, inf
good taste, insight, judgement, per- get-up, impersonation, make-up,
ceptiveness, refinement, selectivity, mask, pretence, smoke-screen. • vb
subtlety, taste. 2 [derog] bias, bigotry, blend into the background, camou-
chauvinism, favouritism, intoler- flage, conceal, cover up, dress up,
ance, male chauvinism, prejudice, falsify, gloss over, hide, make incon-
racialism, racism, sexism, unfairness. spicuous, mask, misrepresent,
Opp IMPARTIALITY. screen, shroud, veil, disguise your-
discuss vb argue about, confer self as > impe r s o n a t e .
about, consider, consult about, disgust n abhorrence, antipathy,
debate, deliberate, examine, inf put aversion, contempt, detestation, dis-
heads together about, talk about, inf like, distaste, hatred, loathing,
weigh up the pros and cons of, write nausea, outrage, repugnance, repul-
about. > TALK. sion, revulsion, sickness. • vb appal, be
dish 114

distasteful to, displease, horrify, disillusion vb disabuse, disappoint,

nauseate, offend, outrage, put off, disenchant, enlighten, reveal the
repel, revolt, shock, sicken, inf turn truth to, undeceive.
your stomach. Opp pl e a s e , disgust- disinfect vb chlorinate, clean,
ing t> HATEFUL. cleanse, decontaminate, fumigate,
dish n 1 basin, bowl, casserole, con- purge, purify, sanitize, sterilize.
tainer, plate, old use platter, tureen. disinfectant n antiseptic, decont-
2 concoction, food, item on the aminant, fumigant, germicide.
menu, recipe, dish out t> d is t r ib u t e . disinherit vb cut off, cut out of a
dish up > SERVE. will, deprive someone of his/her
dishearten vb depress, deter, dis- birthright, deprive someone of his/
courage, dismay, put off, sadden. Opp her inheritance.
e n c o u r a g e , disheartened t> s a d . disintegrate vb break into pieces,
dishevelled adj bedraggled, dis- break up, come apart, crack up,
arranged, disordered, knotted, mat- crumble, decay, decompose, degen-
ted, messy, ruffled, rumpled, inf erate, deteriorate, fall apart, lose
scruffy, slovenly, tangled, tousled, coherence, moulder, rot, shatter,
uncombed, unkempt, untidy. Opp smash, splinter.
NEAT. disinterested adj detached, dis-
dishonest adj inf bent, cheating, cor-
passionate, impartial, impersonal,
rupt,. criminal, crooked, deceitful, neutral, objective, unbiased, unin-
deceiving, deceptive, devious, dis- volved, unprejudiced. Opp b ia s e d .
honourable, disreputable, false, disjointed adj aimless, broken up,
fraudulent, hypocritical, immoral, confused, desultory, disconnected,
insincere, lying, mendacious, mis- dislocated, disordered, disunited,
leading, perfidious, inf shady, inf slip- divided, incoherent, jumbled, loose,
pery, specious, swindling, thieving, mixed up, muddled, rambling,
treacherous, inf twofaced, inf under- separate, split up, unconnected, un-
hand, unethical, unprincipled, un- coordinated, wandering. Opp c o h e r -
scrupulous, untrustworthy, un- ent .
truthful. Opp HONEST. dislike n animus, antagonism,
dishonour n inf black mark, blot, antipathy, aversion, contempt, de-
degradation, discredit, disgrace, testation, disapproval, disfavour,
humiliation, ignominy, indignity, disgust, distaste, hatred, hostility,
loss of face, obloquy, opprobrium, ill will, loathing, repugnance, revul-
reproach, scandal, shame, slander, sion. • vb avoid, despise, detest, disap-
slur, stain, stigma. Opp h o n o u r . • vb prove of, feel dislike for, scorn, inf
1 abuse, affront, debase, defile, take against. t> h a t e . Opp l o v e .
degrade, disgrace, offend, profane, dislocate vb disengage, disjoint, dis-
shame, slight. 2 t> r a pe . place, misplace, inf put out, put out
dishonourable adj base, blame-
of joint.
worthy, compromising, despicable, disloyal adj apostate, faithless, false,
discreditable, disgraceful, disgusting, insincere, perfidious, recreant, ren-
dishonest, disloyal, disreputable, egade, seditious, subversive, treach-
ignoble, ignominious, improper, erous, treasonable, inf two-faced,
infamous, mean, outrageous, per- unfaithful, unreliable, untrue,
fidious, reprehensible, scandalous, untrustworthy. Opp l o y a l .
shabby, shameful, shameless, treach- disloyalty n betrayal, doubledeal -
erous, unchivalrous, unethical, ing, duplicity, faithlessness, false-
unprincipled, unscrupulous, untrust- ness, inconstancy, infidelity, perfidy,
worthy, unworthy, wicked. t> c o r - treachery, treason, unfaithfulness.
r u pt . Opp h o n o u r a b l e . Opp WYMXY.
115 display
dismal adj bleak, cheerless, depress- uproar. > c o m m o t io n . Opp o r d e r . 2 >
ing, dreary, dull, funereal, gloomy, ILLNESS.
grey, grim, joyless, miserable, disorderly adj > d is o b e d ie n t , d is -
sombre, wretched. > s a d . o r g a n iz e d .
dismantle vb demolish, knock disorganized adj aimless, careless,
down, strike, strip down, take apart, chaotic, confused, disorderly, hap-
take down. Opp a s s e mb l e . hazard, illogical, jumbled, messy,
dismay n agitation, alarm, anxiety, muddled, rambling, scatter-brained,
apprehension, consternation, depres- inf slapdash, inf slipshod, inf sloppy,
sion, disappointment, discourage- slovenly, straggling, unmethodical,
ment, distress, dread, gloom, horror, unplanned, unstructured, unsys-
pessimism. > f e a r . • vb alarm, appal, tematic, untidy. Opp s y s t e ma t ic .
daunt, depress, devastate, disap- disown vb cast off, disclaim know-
point, discompose, discourage, dis- ledge of, renounce, repudiate.
gust, dishearten, dispirit, distress, disparage vb belittle, demean,
horrify, scare, shock, take aback, depreciate, discredit, insult, inf put
unnerve. > f r ig h t e n . Opp pl e a s e . down, slight, undervalue. > c r it ic iz e .
dismiss vb 1 disband, discard, free, disparaging > u n c o mpl ime n t a r y .
let go, inf pack off, release, send dispassionate adj calm, composed,
away, inf send packing. 2 belittle, cool, equable, even-tempered, level-
brush aside, discount, disregard, headed, sober. > impa r t ia l , u n e m o -
drop, give up, inf pooh-pooh, reject, t io n a l . Opp e mo t io n a l .
repudiate, set aside, shelve, shrug dispatch n bulletin, communique,
off, wave aside. 3 dismiss a worker, inf document, letter, message, report.
axe, banish, cashier, disband, dis- • vb 1 consign, convey, forward, mail,
charge, inf fire, get rid of, give notice post, send, ship, transmit. 2 > k il l .
to, inf give someone his/her cards, dispense vb 1 allocate, allot, appor-
give the push to, lay off, make re- tion, assign, deal out, disburse, dis-
dundant, sack. tribute, dole out, give out, issue,
disobedient adj anarchic, contrary, measure out, mete out, parcel out,
defiant, delinquent, disorderly, dis- provide, ration out, share. 2 dispense
ruptive, fractious, headstrong, insub- medicine, make up, prepare, supply,
ordinate, intractable, mutinous, dispense with > o m it , r e mo v e .
obdurate, obstinate, obstreperous, disperse vb 1 break up, decentralize,
perverse, rebellious, recalcitrant, devolve, disband, dismiss, dispel, dis-
refractoiy, riotous, selfwilled, stub- sipate, distribute, divide up, drive
born, uncontrollable, undisciplined, away, send away, send in different
ungovernable, unmanageable, un- directions, separate, spread, stray.
ruly, wayward, wild, wilful. Opp g a t h e r . 2 disappear, dissolve,
> NAUGHTY. Opp OBEDIENT. melt away, scatter, spread out, van-
disobey vb 1 be disobedient, mutiny, ish.
protest, rebel, revolt, rise up, strike. displace vb 1 disarrange, dislocate,
2 break, contravene, defy, disregard, dislodge, disturb, misplace, move,
flout, ignore, infringe, oppose, rebel put out of place, shift. 2 crowd out,
against, resist, transgress, violate. depose, dispossess, evict, expel, oust,
Opp OBEY. replace, succeed, supersede, sup-
disorder n 1 anarchy, chaos, clam- plant, take the place of, unseat,
our, confusion, disarray, disorderli- usurp.
ness, disorganization, disturbance, display n 1 array, demonstration,
fighting, fracas, fuss, jumble, law- exhibition, manifestation, pageant,
lessness, mess, muddle, rumpus, inf parade, presentation, show, spec-
shambles, tangle, tumult, untidiness, tacle. 2 ceremony, ostentation,
displease 116

pageantry, pomp, showing off. • vb ventional, unreliable, unsound,

advertise, air, betray, demonstrate, untrustworthy. Opp r e pu t a b l e .
disclose, exhibit, expose, flaunt, disrespectful adj bad-mannered,
flourish, give evidence of, parade, blasphemous, derisive, discourteous,
present, produce, put on show, disparaging, impolite, impudent,
reveal, set out, show, show off, inconsiderate, insolent, insulting,
unfold, unfurl, unveil, vaunt. Opp irreverent, mocking, scornful,
HIDE. uncivil, uncomplimentary, unman-
displease vb anger, offend, inf put nerly. > RUDE. Opp RESPECTFUL.
out, upset. t> ANNOY. disrupt vb agitate, break up, confuse,
disposable adj 1 at your disposal, disconcert, dislocate, disorder, dis-
available, spendable, usable. 2 turb, interfere with, interrupt,
biodegradable, expendable, non- intrude on, spoil, throw into dis-
returnable, replaceable, inf throw- order, unsettle, upset.
away. dissatisfaction n annoyance,
dispose vb adjust, arrange, array, chagrin, disappointment, discon-
distribute, group, order, organize, tentment, dismay, displeasure,
place, position, put, set out, situate, disquiet, exasperation, frustration,
disposed > l ia b l e , dispose of > irritation, malaise, mortification,
DESTROY, DISCARD. regret, unhappiness. Opp s a t is f a c t io n .
disproportionate adj excessive, dissatisfied adj disaffected, disap-
incommensurate, incongruous, pointed, discontented, disgruntled,
inequitable, inordinate, out of pro- displeased, fed up, frustrated, unful-
portion, unbalanced, uneven, un- filled, unsatisfied. t> u n h a ppy . Opp c o n -
reasonable. Opp PROPORTIONAL. t en t ed .
disprove vb confute, contradict, con- dissident n derog agitator, apostate,
trovert, demolish, discredit, inf dissenter, independent thinker, non-
explode, invalidate, negate, rebut, conformer, protester, rebel, recusant,
refiite, show to be wrong. Opp pr o v e . inf refusenik, revolutionary. Opp c o n -
dispute n > q u a r r e l . • vb argue f o r mis t .
against, challenge, contest, contra- dissimilar adj antithetical, clashing,
dict, controvert, deny, disagree with, conflicting, contrasting, different,
doubt, fault, gainsay, impugn, object disparate, distinct, distinguishable,
to, oppose, inf pick holes in, quarrel divergent, diverse, heterogeneous,
with, queiy, question, raise doubts incompatible, irreconcilable, oppos-
about, take exception to. t> d e b a t e . ite, unlike, unrelated, various. Opp
Opp ACCEPT. SIMILAR.
disqualify vb bar, debar, declare dissipate vb 1 break up, diffuse, dis-
ineligible, exclude, preclude, pro- appear, disperse, scatter. 2 distrib-
hibit, reject, turn down. ute, fritter away, spread about,
disregard vb brush aside, despise, squander, throw away, use up, waste,
discount, dismiss, disobey, exclude, dissipated t> immo r a l .
inf fly in the face of, forget, ignore, dissociate vb back away, cut off,
leave out, inf make light of, miss out, detach, disengage, distance, divorce,
neglect, omit, overlook, pass over, isolate, segregate. > s e pa r a t e . Opp
pay no attention to, inf pooh-pooh, ASSOCIATE.
reject, shrug off, skip, slight, snub, dissolve vb 1 become liquid, decom-
turn a blind eye to. Opp h e e d . pose, deliquesce, dematerialize, dif-
disreputable adj dishonest, dis- fuse, disappear, disintegrate, dis-
honourable, inf dodgy, dubious, in- perse, liquefy, melt away, vanish.
famous, questionable, raffish, inf 2 dissolve a meeting, adjourn, break
shady, suspect, suspicious, uncon- up, cancel, disband, dismiss, divorce,
 117 distress
end, sever, split up, suspend, ter- our, importance, merit, prestige,
minate, inf wind up. renown, reputation, superiority.
dissuade vb dissuade from advise distinctive adj characteristic, dif-
against, argue out of, deter from, dis- ferent, distinguishing, idiosyncratic,
courage from, persuade not to, put individual, inimitable, original, pecu-
off, remonstrate against, warn liar, personal, singular, special, strik-
against. Opp pe r s u a d e . ing, typical, uncommon, unique. Opp
distance n 1 breadth, extent, COMMON.
gap, inf haul, interval, journey, distinguish vb 1 choose, decide, dif-
length, measurement, mileage, range, ferentiate, discriminate, judge, make
reach, separation, space, span, a distinction, separate, tell apart.
stretch, width. 2 aloofness, coolness, 2 ascertain, determine, discern,
haughtiness, isolation, remoteness, know, make out, perceive, pick out,
separation, inf standoffishness, un- recognize, see, single out, tell, dis-
friendliness. • vb distance yourself tinguished > FAMOUS.
be unfriendly, detach yourself, dis- distort vb 1 bend, buckle, contort,
sociate yourself, keep away, keep deform, misshape, twist, warp,
your distance, remove yourself, sep- wrench. 2 alter, exaggerate, falsify,
arate yourself, set yourself apart, stay garble, misrepresent, pervert, slant,
away. Opp in v o l v e . tamper with, twist, violate, distorted
distant adj 1 far, far-away, far- > GNARLED, f a l s e .
flung, inf god-forsaken, inaccessible, distract vb bewilder, bother, con-
outlying, out-of-the-way, remote, found, confuse, deflect, disconcert,
removed. Opp c l o s e . 2 aloof, cool, distress, divert, harass, mystify,
formal, frigid, haughty, reserved, perplex, puzzle, rattle, sidetrack,
reticent, stiff, unapproachable, unen- trouble, worry, distracted > d is -
thusiastic, unfriendly, withdrawn. t r a u g h t , MAD.
Opp FRIENDLY.
distraction n 1 disturbance, diver-
distasteful adj disgusting, displeas- sion, interference, interruption,
ing, nasty, nauseating, objectionable, temptation, inf upset. 2 agitation,
offensive, inf off-putting, repugnant, befuddlement, bewilderment, confu-
revolting, unpalatable. > u n pl e a s a n t . sion, delirium, frenzy, insanity, mad-
Opp PLEASANT. ness. 3 > d iv e r s io n .
distinct adj 1 apparent, clear, clear- distraught adj agitated, inf beside
cut, definite, evident, noticeable, yourself, distracted, distressed, dis-
obvious, palpable, patent, percept- turbed, emotional, excited, frantic,
ible, plain, precise, recognizable, hysterical, overcome, overwrought,
sharp, unambiguous, unequivocal, troubled, upset, worked up. > a n -
unmistakable, visible, well-defined. x io u s . Opp c a l m .
Opp in d is t in c t . 2 contrasting, distress n adversity, affliction,
detached, different, discrete, dissim- angst, anguish, anxiety, danger, des-
ilar, distinguishable, individual, sep- olation, difficulty, discomfort, dis-
arate, special, Lat sui generis, may, fright, grief, heartache, misery,
unconnected, unique. pain, poverty, privation, sadness, sor-
distinction n 1 contrast, difference, row, stress, suffering, torment, tribu-
differentiation, discrimination, dis- lation, trouble, unhappiness, woe,
similarity, distinctiveness, dividing worry, wretchedness. > pa in . • vb
line, division, individuality, particu- afflict, alarm, bother, inf cut up, dis-
larity, peculiarity, separation. Opp may, disturb, frighten, grieve, harass,
s imil a r it y . 2 distinction of being first. harrow, hurt, make miserable,
celebrity, credit, eminence, excel- oppress, pain, perplex, perturb,
lence, fame, glory, greatness, hon- plague, sadden, scare, shake, shock,
distribute 118

terrify, torment, torture, trouble, ditch n aqueduct, channel, dike,

upset, vex, worry, wound. Opp c o m - drain, gully, gutter, moat, trench,
for t . watercourse. • vb > a b a n d o n .
distribute vb allocate, allot, appor- dive vb crash-dive, descend, dip, drop,
tion, arrange, assign, circulate, deal duck, fall, go snorkelling, go under,
out, deliver, inf dish out, dispense, jump, leap, nosedive, pitch, plum-
disperse, dispose of, disseminate, met, plunge, sink, submerge, sub-
divide out, inf dole out, give out, side, swoop.
hand round, issue, mete out, parti- diverge vb branch, deviate, divide,
tion, pass round, scatter, share out, fork, go off at a tangent, part, radi-
spread, strew, take round. Opp c o l - ate, ramify, separate, split, spread,
l ect . subdivide. > d if f e r . Opp c o n v e r g e .
district n area, community, depart- diverse adj assorted, different, dis-
ment, division, locality, neighbour- similar, distinct, divergent, diversi-
hood, parish, part, partition, fied, heterogeneous, miscellaneous,
precinct, province, quarter, region, mixed, multifarious, varied, various.
sector, territory, vicinity, ward, zone. diversify vb branch out, broaden
distrust vb be distrustful of, disbe-
out, develop, divide, enlarge, expand,
lieve, doubt, have misgivings about, extend, spread out, vary.
have qualms about, mistrust, ques- diversion n 1 detour, deviation.
tion, suspect. Opp TRUST. 2 amusement, distraction, enter-
tainment, fun, game, hobby, in-
distrustful adj cautious, chary, cyn- terest, pastime, play, recreation,
ical, disbelieving, distrusting, doubt- relaxation, sport.
ful, dubious, sceptical, suspicious,
uncertain, uneasy, unsure, wary. Opp divert vb 1 alter, avert, change direc-
TRUSTFUL. tion, deflect, deviate, rechannel, re-
direct, reroute, shunt, sidetrack,
disturb vb 1 agitate, alarm, annoy, switch, turn aside. 2 amuse, beguile,
bother, discompose, disrupt, distract, cheer up, delight, distract, engage,
distress, excite, fluster, frighten, entertain, keep happy, occupy, recre-
hassle, interrupt, intrude on, per- ate, regale, diverting > f u n n y .
turb, pester, ruffle, scare, shake,
divide vb 1 branch, detach, diverge,
startle, stir up, trouble, unsettle,
fork, move apart, part, separate, sun-
upset, worry. 2 confuse, disorder,
der. 2 allocate, allot, apportion,
interfere with, jumble up, inf mess
break up, cut up, deal out, dispense,
about with, move, muddle, rearrange,
distribute, dole out, give out, halve,
reorganize, disturbed > d is t r a u g h t .
measure out, mete out, parcel out,
disturbance n disruption, interfer- pass round, share out. 3 divide a
ence, upheaval, upset. > c o m m o t io n . party, cause disagreement in, dis-
unite, polarize, split. 4 divide into sets.
disunited adj divided, opposed,
polarized, split. Opp u n it e d . arrange, categorize, classify, grade,
group, sort out, subdivide. Opp
disunity n difference, disagreement, GATHER, UNITE.
discord, disharmony, disintegration, divine adj angelic, celestial, godlike,
division, fragmentation, incoher- hallowed, heavenly, holy, immortal,
ence, opposition, polarization. Opp mystical, religious, sacred, saintly,
UNITY. seraphic, spiritual, superhuman,
disused adj abandoned, archaic, supernatural, transcendental. Opp
closed, dead, discarded, discon- MORTAL. • n > CLERGYMAN. • Vb > PROPH-
tinued, idle, neglected, obsolete, ESY.
superannuated, unused, withdrawn. divinity n 1 t> g o d . 2 religion, reli-
> OLD. Opp CURRENT. gious studies, theology.
 119 domestic
division n 1 allocation, allotment, practitioner, inf MO, physician, derog
apportionment, cutting up, dividing, quack, surgeon.
partition, segmentation, separation, doctrine n axiom, belief, conviction,
splitting. 2 disagreement, discord, Lat credo, creed, dogma, maxim,
disunity, feud, quarrel, rupture, orthodoxy, postulate, precept, prin-
schism, split. 3 alcove, compartment, ciple, teaching, tenet, theory, thesis,
part, recess, section, segment. 4 divi-
sion between rooms, lands, border, bor- document n certificate, charter,
derline, boundary line, demarcation, chronicle, deed, diploma, form,
divider, dividing wall, fence, frontier, instrument, legal document, licence,
margin, partition, screen. 5 division of manuscript, inf MS, paper, parch-
a business, branch, department, sec- ment, passport, policy, print-out,
tion, subdivision, unit. record, typescript, visa, warrant, will.
• vb t> RECORD.
divorce n annulment, inf breakup, documentary adj 1 authenticated,
decree nisi, dissolution, separation, chronicled, recorded, substantiated,
inf split-up. • vb annul marriage, dis- written. 2 factual, historical, non-
solve marriage, part, separate, inf fiction, real life.
split up.
dodge n contrivance, device, knack,
dizziness n faintness, giddiness, manoeuvre, ploy, si racket, ruse,
light-headedness, vertigo. scheme, stratagem, subterfuge, trick,
inf wheeze. • vb 1 avoid, duck, elude,
dizzy adj bewildered, confused,
escape, evade, fend off, move out of
dazed, faint, giddy, light-headed,
the way, sidestep, swerve, turn away,
muddled, reeling, shaky, swimming,
veer, weave. 2 dodge work, shirk, inf
unsteady, inf woozy.
skive, inf wriggle out of. 3 dodge a
do vb 1 accomplish, achieve, bring question, equivocate, fudge, hedge,
about, carry out, cause, commit, quibble, inf waffle.
complete, effect, execute, finish, ful- dog n bitch, inf bow-wow, derog cur,
fil, implement, initiate, instigate, dingo, hound, mongrel, pedigree,
organize, perform, produce, under- pup, puppy, whelp. • vb t> f o l l o w .
take. 2 do the garden, arrange, attend
dogma n article of faith, belief, con-
to, cope with, deal with, handle, look
viction, creed, doctrine, orthodoxy,
after, manage, work at. 3 do sums.
precept, principle, teaching, tenet,
answer, give your mind to, puzzle
truth.
out, solve, think out, work out. 4 Will
this do? be acceptable, be enough, be dogmatic adj arbitrary, assertive,
satisfactory, be sufficient, be suit- authoritarian, authoritative, cat-
able, satisfy, serve, suffice. 5 Do as egorical, certain, dictatorial, doc-
you like, act, behave, conduct your- trinaire, inf hard-line, hidebound,
self, perform, do away with i> a b o l - imperious, inflexible, intolerant,
is h . do up > DECORATE, FASTEN. legalistic, narrow-minded, obdurate,
opinionated, pontifical, positive. >
docile adj cooperative, domesticated, STUBBORN. Opp AMENABLE.
obedient, submissive, tractable. dole n [inf| benefit, income support,
> TAME. social security, unemployment be-
dock n berth, boatyard, dockyard, nefit. dole out i> d is t r ib u t e , on the
dry dock, harbour, haven, jetty, land- dole > UNEMPLOYED.
ing-stage, marina, pier, port, quay, doll n inf dolly, figure, marionette,
slipway, wharf. • vb 1 anchor, berth, puppet, rag doll.
drop anchor, land, moor, put in, tie domestic adj 1 family, household,
up. 2 i> CUT. in the home, private. 2 domestic air
doctor n general practitioner, inf GP, service, indigenous, inland, internal,
inf medic, medical officer, medical national.
domesticated 120

domesticated adj house-broken, potential, unrevealed, untapped,

house-trained, tame, tamed, trained. unused. Opp a c t iv e .
Opp WILD. dose n amount, dosage, measure,
dominant adj 1 biggest, chief, com- portion, prescribed amount, quant-
manding, conspicuous, eyecatching, ity. • vb administer, dispense, pre-
highest, imposing, largest, main, scribe.
major, obvious, outstanding, pre- dossier n file, folder, records, set of
eminent, prevailing, primary, prin- documents.
cipal, tallest, uppermost, widespread.
dot n decimal point, fleck, full stop,
2 ascendant, controlling, dominat-
iota, jot, mark, point, speck, spot.
ing, domineering, governing, influ-
• vb fleck, mark with dots, punctu-
ential, leading, powerful, predom-
ate, speckle, spot, stipple.
inant, presiding, reigning, ruling,
supreme. dote vb dote on adore, idolize, wor-
ship. > LOVE.
dominate vb 1 be dominant, be in
the majority, control, direct, govern, double adj coupled, doubled, dual,
influence, lead, manage, master, duple, duplicated, paired, twin,
monopolize, outnumber, preponder- twofold, two-ply. • n clone, copy,
ate, prevail, rule, subjugate, take con- counterpart, Ger doppelganger, du-
trol, tyrannize. 2 dwarf, look out plicate, inf look-alike, opposite, inf
over, overshadow, tower over. spitting image, twin. • vb duplic-
ate, increase, multiply by two, re-
domineering adj authoritarian,
duplicate, repeat, double back >
autocratic, inf bossy, despotic, dic-
RETURN, double up > COLLAPSE.
tatorial, high-handed, oppressive,
overbearing, inf pushy, strict, tyran- double-cross vb cheat, deceive, let
nical. Opp SUBMISSIVE. down, trick. > b e t r a y .
donate vb contribute, give, grant, doubt n 1 agnosticism, anxiety,
hand over, make a donation, pres- apprehension, confusion, cynicism,
ent, subscribe, supply. diffidence, disbelief, disquiet, dis-
trust, fear, hesitation, incredulity,
donation n alms, contribution, indecision, misgiving, mistrust, per-
freewill offering, gift, offering, pre- plexity, qualm, reservation, scepti-
sent, subscription. cism, suspicion, worry. 2 doubt about
donor n backer, benefactor, contrib- meaning, ambiguity, difficulty, di-
utor, giver, philanthropist, provider, lemma, problem, query, question,
sponsor, supplier, supporter. uncertainty. Opp c e r t a in t y . • vb be
doom n destiny, end, fate, fortune, dubious, be sceptical about, disbe-
karma, kismet, lot. lieve, distrust, fear, feel uncertain
about, have doubts about, have mis-
doomed adj 1 condemned, destined, givings about, have reservations
fated, intended, ordained, predes- about, hesitate, lack confidence, mis-
tined. 2 a doomed enterprise, accursed, trust, query, question, suspect. Opp
bedevilled, cursed, damned, hope- TRUST.
less, ill-fated, ill-starred, luckless,
star-crossed, unlucky. doubtful adj 1 agnostic, cynical, dif-
fident, disbelieving, distrustful, dubi-
door n barrier, doorway, entrance, ous, hesitant, incredulous, sceptical,
exit, French window, gate, gateway, suspicious, tentative, uncertain,
opening, portal, postern, revolving unclear, unconvinced, undecided,
door, swing door, way out. unsure. 2 a doubtful decision, ambigu-
dormant adj 1 asleep, comatose, ous, debatable, dubious, equivocal,
hibernating, inactive, inert, passive, inf iffy, inconclusive, problematical,
quiescent, quiet, resting, sleeping. questionable, suspect, Vague, worry-
2 dormant talent, hidden, latent, ing. 3 a doubtful ally, irresolute,
121 dread
uncommitted, unreliable, untrust- show, stage version, TV version,
worthy, vacillating, wavering. Opp tragedy. 3 real-life drama, action, cri-
CERTAIN, DEPENDABLE. sis, excitement, suspense, turmoil.
dowdy adj colourless, dingy, drab, dramatic adj 1 histrionic, stage, the-
dull, inf frumpish, old-fashioned, atrical, thespian. 2 dramatic gestures.
shabby, inf sloppy, slovenly, inf tatty, exaggerated, flamboyant, large, over-
unattractive, unstylish. Opp s ma r t . done, showy. 3 > EXCITING.
downfall n collapse, defeat, over- dramatist n dramaturge, play-
throw, ruin, undoing. wright, scriptwriter.
downhearted adj dejected, de- dramatize vb 1 adapt, make into a
pressed, discouraged, inf down, play. 2 exaggerate, make too much
downcast, miserable, unhappy. > of, overdo, overplay, overstate.
SAD. drape n old use arras, curtain,
downward adj declining, descend- drapery, hanging, screen, tapestry,
ing, downhill, easy, falling, going valance. • vb cover, decorate, festoon,
down. Opp u pw a r d . hang, swathe.
downy adj featheiy, fleecy, fluffy, drastic adj desperate, dire, dracon-
furry, fuzzy, soft, velvety, woolly. ian, extreme, far-reaching, forceful,
drab adj cheerless, colourless, dingy, harsh, radical, rigorous, severe,
dismal, dowdy, dreary, dull, flat, strong, vigorous.
gloomy, grey, grimy, lacklustre, draught n 1 breeze, current, move-
shabby, sombre, unattractive, unin- ment, puff, wind. 2 draught of ale.
teresting. Opp BRIGHT. dose, drink, gulp, measure, pull,
draft n 1 first version, notes, outline, swallow, inf swig.
plan, rough version, sketch. 2 bank draw n 1 attraction, enticement,
draft, cheque, order, postal order. • vb lure, inf pull. 2 dead-heat, dead-lock,
block out, compose, delineate, draw stalemate, tie. 3 competition, lottery,
up, outline, plan, prepare, put to- raffle. • vb 1 drag, haul, lug, pull,
gether, sketch out, work out, write a tow, tug. 2 draw a crowd, allure,
draft of. attract, bring in, coax, entice, invite,
drag vb 1 draw, haul, lug, pull, tow, lure, persuade, pull in, win over.
trail, tug. 2 time drags, be boring, 3 draw a sword, extract, remove, take
crawl, creep, go slowly, linger, out, unsheathe, withdraw. 4 draw
loiter, lose momentum, move lots, choose, pick, select. 5 draw a con-
slowly, pass slowly. clusion. arrive at, come to, deduce,
formulate, infer, work out. 6 draw
drain n channel, conduit, culvert,
water, drain, let (blood), pour, pump,
dike, ditch, drainage, drainpipe, duct, syphon, tap. 7 draw 1-1. be equal, fin-
gutter, outlet, pipe, sewer, trench, ish equal, tie. 8 draw pictures, depict,
water-course. • vb 1 bleed, clear, map out, mark out, outline, paint,
draw off, dry out, empty, evacuate, pen, pencil, portray, represent,
extract, pump out, remove, tap, take sketch, trace, draw out > e x t e n d .
off. 2 drip, ebb, leak out, ooze, seep, draw up t> d r a f t , h a l t .
strain, trickle. 3 drain resources, con-
sume, deplete, exhaust, sap, spend, drawback n defect, difficulty, dis-
use up. advantage, hindrance, hurdle,
impediment, obstacle, obstruction,
drama n 1 acting, dramatics, dram- problem, snag, stumbling block.
aturgy, histrionics, improvisation,
stagecraft, theatre, theatricals, thes- drawing n cartoon, design,
pian arts. 2 comedy, dramatization, graphics, illustration, outline, sketch.
farce, melodrama, musical, opera, > PICTURE.
operetta, pantomime, performance, dread n anxiety, apprehension, awe,
play, production, screenplay, script, inf cold feet, dismay, fear, inf the
dreadful 122

jitters, nervousness, perturbation, drill n 1 discipline, exercises, instruc-

qualm, trepidation, uneasiness, tion, practice, si square-bashing,
worry. • vb be afraid of, shrink from, training. • vb 1 coach, discipline,
view with horror. > f e a r . exercise, indoctrinate, instruct, prac-
dreadful adj alarming, appalling, tise, rehearse, school, teach, train.
awful, dire, distressing, evil, fearful, 2 bore, penetrate, perforate, pierce.
frightful, ghastly, grisly, gruesome, drink n 1 beverage, inf bevvy, inf
harrowing, hideous, horrible, hor- cuppa, inf dram, draught, glass, inf
rifying, indescribable, monstrous, gulp, inf night-cap, inf nip, pint, joc
shocking, terrible, tragic, unspeak- potation, sip, swallow, swig, inf
able, upsetting, wicked. > b a d , f r ig h t - tipple, tot. 2 alcohol, infbooze, joc grog,
e n in g . joc liquid refreshment, liquor. □ ale,
dream n 1 daydream, delusion, fant- beer, bourbon, brandy, champagne, char-
asy, hallucination, illusion, mirage, treuse, cider, cocktail, Cognac, creme de
nightmare, reverie, trance, vision. menthe, gin, Kirsch, lager, mead, perry,
2 ambition, aspiration, ideal, pipe- inf plonk, port, punch, rum, schnapps,
dream, wish. • vb conjure up, day- shandy, sherry, vermouth, vodka, whisky,
dream, fancy, fantasize, hallucinate, wine. • vb 1 gulp, guzzle, imbibe, inf
have a vision, imagine, think, dream knock back, lap, partake of, old use
up > v INVENT. quaff, sip, suck, swallow, swig, inf
swill. 2 inf booze, carouse, get drunk,
dreary adj bleak, boring, cheerless,
inf indulge, tipple, tope.
depressing, dismal, dull, gloomy, joy-
less, sombre, uninteresting. > mis e r - drip n bead, dribble, drop, leak,
a bl e. splash, spot, tear, trickle. • vb
dribble, drizzle, drop, fall in drips,
dregs n deposit, grounds (of coffee),
leak, plop, splash, sprinkle, trickle,
lees, precipitate, remains, residue,
weep.
sediment.
drive n 1 excursion, jaunt, journey,
drench vb douse, drown, flood, inun-
date, saturate, soak, souse, steep, wet outing, ride, run, inf spin, trip.
thoroughly. 2 aggressiveness, ambition, deter-
mination, energy, enterprise, enthu-
dress n 1 apparel, attire, clothing, siasm, inf get-up-and-go, impetus,
costume, garb, garments, inf gear, inf industry, initiative, keenness, mo-
get-up, outfit, old use raiment. > tivation, persistence, inf push, vig-
c l o t h e s . 2 frock, gown, robe, shift. • our, vim, zeal. 3 campaign, crusade,
vb 1 array, attire, clothe, cover, fit effort. • vb 1 bang, dig, hammer, hit,
out, provide clothes for, put clothes impel, knock, plunge, prod, push,
on, robe. 2 dress a wound, attend to, ram, sink, stab, strike, thrust.
bandage, bind up, care for, put a 2 coerce, compel, constrain, force,
dressing on, tend, treat. Opp u n c o v e r . oblige, press, urge. 3 drive a car. con-
dressing n bandage, compress, plas- trol, direct, guide, handle, herd, man-
ter, poultice. age, pilot, propel, send, steer. >
dribble vb 1 drool, slaver, slobber. t r a v e l , drive out t> e x pe l .
2 drip, flow, leak, ooze, run, seep, droop vb be limp, bend, dangle, fall,
trickle. flop, hang, sag, slump, wilt, wither.
drift n 1 accumulation, bank, dune, drop n 1 bead, blob, bubble, dab,
heap, mound, pile, ridge. 2 drift of a drip, droplet, globule, pearl, spot,
speech. > g is t . • vb 1 be carried, coast, tear. 2 dash, inf nip, small quantity,
float, meander, move casually, move inf tot. 3 a steep drop, declivity,
slowly, ramble, roam, rove, stray, descent, dive, escarpment, fall,
waft, walk aimlessly, wander. 2 snow incline, plunge, precipice, scarp. 4 a
drifts, accumulate, gather, make drop in price, cut, decrease, reduction,
drifts, pile up. slump. Opp r is e . • vb 1 collapse,
 123 dummy
descend, dip, dive, fall, go down, ile, thirsty, waterless. Opp w e t . 2 a
jump down, lower, nosedive, plum- dry book, boring, dreaiy, dull, flat,
met, inf plump, plunge, sink, slump, prosaic, stale, tedious, tiresome,
subside, swoop, tumble. 2 drop from a uninspired, uninteresting. Opp l iv e l y .
team, eliminate, exclude, leave out, 3 dry humour, inf dead-pan, droll,
omit. 3 drop a friend, abandon, desert, expressionless, laconic, lugubrious,
discard, inf dump, forsake, give up, unsmiling. • vb become diy, dehu-
jilt, leave, reject, scrap, shed, drop midify, dehydrate, desiccate, go hard,
behind > l a g . drop in on > v is it . make diy, parch, shrivel, wilt, wither,
drop off > SLEEP.
dual adj binaiy, coupled, double,
drown vb 1 engulf, flood, immerse, duplicate, linked, paired, twin.
submerge, swamp. > k il l . 2 noise
drowned my voice, be louder than, dubious adj 1 > d o u b t f u l . 2 a dubious
overpower, overwhelm, silence. character, inf fishy, inf shady, suspect,
suspicious, unreliable, untrustwor-
drowsy adj dozing, dozy, heavyeyed, thy.
listless, inf nodding off, sleepy, slug-
gish, somnolent, soporific, tired, duck vb 1 avoid, bend, bob down,
weaiy. Opp l iv e l y . crouch, dip down, dodge, evade, side-
drudgery n chore, donkey-work, inf
step, stoop, swerve, take evasive
grind, labour, slaveiy, inf slog, toil, action. 2 immerse, plunge, push
travail. > w o r k . under, submerge.
drug n 1 cure, medicament, medica- due adj 1 in arrears, outstanding,
tion, medicine, old use physic, rem- owed, owing, payable, unpaid. 2 due
edy, treatment. 2 inf dope, narcotic, consideration, adequate, appropriate,
opiate. □ analgesic, antidepressant, bar- decent, deserved, expected, fitting,
biturate, hallucinogen, pain-killer, sed- just, mature, merited, proper, re-
ative, stimulant, tonic, tranquillizer. quisite, right, rightful, scheduled,
□ caffeine, cannabis, cocaine, digitalis, sufficient, suitable, welleamed.
hashish, heroin, insulin, laudanum, ma- • n deserts, entitlement, merits,
rijuana, morphia, nicotine, opium, phe- reward, rights, dues > d u t y .
nobarbitone, quinine. • vb anaesthetize, dull adj 1 dim, dingy, dowdy, drab,
inf dope, dose, give a drug to, inf dreaiy, faded, flat, gloomy, lack-
knock out, medicate, poison, sedate, lustre, lifeless, matt, plain, shabby,
stupefy, tranquillize, treat. sombre, subdued. 2 a dull sky. cloudy,
drum n 1 > b a r r e l . 2 □ bass-drum, dismal, grey, heavy, leaden, murky,
bongo-drum, kettledrum, side-drum, overcast, sullen, sunless. 3 a dull
snare-drum, tambour, tenor-drum, plur sound, deadened, indistinct, muffled,
timpani, tom-tom. muted. 4 a dull student, dense, dim,
dim-witted, obtuse, slow, inf thick,
drunk adj delirious, fuddled, in-
unimaginative, unintelligent, unre-
capable, inebriate, inebriated, in-
toxicated, maudlin, [slang] blotto, sponsive. > s t u pid . 5 a dull edge, blunt,
blunted, unsharpened. 6 dull talk.
bombed, boozed-up, canned, high,
boring, commonplace, diy, monoto-
legless, merry, paralytic, pickled, pie-
nous, prosaic, stodgy, tame, tedious,
eyed, pissed, plastered, sloshed,
unexciting, uninteresting. Opp b r ig h t ,
soused, sozzled, stoned, tanked,
s h a r p.
tiddly, tight, tipsy. Opp s o b e r .
drunkard n alcoholic, inf boozer, si dumb adj inarticulate, inf mum,
dipso, dipsomaniac, drunk, inf sot, mute, silent, speechless, tongue-tied,
tippler, toper, si wino. Opp t e e t o t a l l e r . unable to speak.
dry adj 1 arid, baked, barren, dead, dummy n 1 copy, counterfeit, du-
dehydrated, desiccated, moistureless, plicate, imitation, mock-up, model,
parched, scorched, shrivelled, ster- reproduction, sample, sham, simu-
dump 124

lation, substitute, toy. 2 doll, figure, sooty. 2 a dusty room, dirty, filthy,
manikin, puppet. grimy, grubby, mucky, uncleaned,
dump n 1 junkyard, rubbish-heap, unswept.
tip. 2 arms dump, arsenal, cache, dutiful adj attentive, careful, com-
depot, hoard, store. • vb deposit, dis- pliant, conscientious, devoted, dili-
card, dispose of, inf ditch, drop, gent, faithful, hard-working, loyal,
empty out, get rid of, jettison, obedient, obliging, punctilious, reli-
offload, inf park, place, put down, able, responsible, scrupulous, thor-
reject, scrap, throw away, throw ough, trustworthy, willing. Opp
down, tip, unload. IRRESPONSIBLE.
dune n drift, hillock, hummock, duty n 1 allegiance, faithfulness, loy-
mound, sand-dune. alty, obedience, obligation, onus,
responsibility, service. 2 assignment,
dungeon n old use donjon, gaol,
business, charge, chore, function,
keep, lock-up, oubliette, pit, prison, job, office, role, stint, task, work.
vault. 3 charge, customs, dues, fee, impost,
duplicate adj alternative, copied, levy, tariff, tax, toll.
corresponding, identical, matching, dwarf adj t> s ma l l . • n midget, pigmy.
second, twin. • n carbon copy, clone, • vb dominate, look bigger than,
copy, double, facsimile, imitation, overshadow, tower over.
likeness, inf look-alike, match, pho-
tocopy, photostat, replica, reproduc- dwell vb abide, be accommodated,
tion, twin, Xerox. • vb copy, do again, live, lodge, reside, stay, dwell in >
double up on, photocopy, print, INHABIT.
repeat, reproduce, Xerox. dwelling n abode, domicile, habita-
tion, home, lodging, quarters, resid-
durable adj enduring, hard-wearing,
ence. t> HOUSE.
heavy-duty, indestructible, long-last-
ing, permanent, resilient, stout, dying adj declining, expiring, fading,
strong, substantial, thick, tough. Opp failing, moribund, obsolescent. Opp
IMPERMANENT, WEAK. ALIVE.
dusk n evening, gloaming, gloom, dynamic adj active, committed,
sundown, sunset, twilight. driving, eager, energetic, enter-
prising, enthusiastic, forceful, inf
dust n dirt, grime, grit, particles, go-ahead, derog go-getting, high-
powder. powered, lively, motivated, powerful,
dusty adj 1 chalky, crumbly, dry, pushful, derog pushy, spirited, vigor-
fine, friable, gritty, powdery, sandy, ous, zealous. Opp a pa t h e t ic .
eager adj agog, animated, anxious (to earthly adj corporeal, human, mater-
please), ardent, avid, bursting, com- ial, materialistic, mortal, mundane,
mitted, craving, desirous, earnest, physical, secular, temporal, terrest-
enthusiastic, excited, fervent, fervid, rial, worldly. Opp s pir it u a l .
hungiy, impatient, intent, interested, earthquake n quake, shock, tremor,
inf itching, keen, inf keyed up, long- upheaval.
ing, motivated, passionate, inf raring earthy adj bawdy, coarse, crude,
(to go), voracious, yearning, zealous. down to earth, frank, lusty, ribald,
Opp APATHETIC. uninhibited. t> o b s c e n e .
eagerness n alacrity, anxiety, ease n 1 aplomb, calmness, comfort,
appetite, ardour, avidity, commit- composure, contentment, enjoy-
ment, desire, earnestness, enthusi- ment, happiness, leisure, luxury,
asm, excitement, fervour, hunger, peace, quiet, relaxation, repose, rest,
impatience, intentness, interest, serenity, tranquillity. 2 dexterity, easi-
keenness, longing, motivation, pas- ness, effortlessness, facility, noncha-
sion, thirst, zeal. Opp a pa ih y . lance, simplicity, skill, speed,
early adj 1 advance, ahead of time, straightforwardness. Opp d if f ic u l t y . •
before time, first, forward, prema- vb 1 allay, alleviate, assuage, calm,
ture. Opp l a t e . 2 ancient, antiquated, comfort, decrease, lessen, lighten,
initial, original, primeval, primitive. mitigate, moderate, pacify, quell, qui-
> OLD. Opp RECENT. eten, reduce, relax, relieve, slacken,
earn vb 1 be paid, inf bring in, inf soothe, tranquillize. 2 edge, guide,
clear, draw, fetch in, gain, get, inf inch, manoeuvre, move gradually,
gross, make, make a profit of, net, slide, slip, steer.
obtain, pocket, realize, receive, inf easy adj 1 carefree, comfortable, con-
take home, work for, yield. 2 attain, tented, cosy, inf cushy, effortless,
be worthy of, deserve, merit, qualify leisurely, light, painless, peaceful,
for, warrant, win. pleasant, relaxed, relaxing, restful,
earnest adj 1 assiduous, committed, serene, soft, tranquil, undemanding,
conscientious, dedicated, deter- unexacting, unhurried, untroubled.
mined, devoted, diligent, eager, hard- 2 clear, elementaiy, facile, foolproof,
working, industrious, involved, inf idiot-proof, manageable, plain,
simple, straightforward, uncomplic-
purposeful, resolved, zealous. Opp
ated, understandable, user-friendly.
c a s u a l . 2 grave, heartfelt, impas-
3 > EASYGOING. Opp DIFFICULT.
sioned, serious, sincere, sober,
solemn, thoughtful, well-meant. easygoing adj accommodating, af-
fable, amenable, calm, carefree, casual,
earnings plur n income, salary,
cheerful, docile, even-tempered, flex-
stipend, wages. > pa y . ible, forbearing, inf free and easy,
earth n clay, dirt, ground, humus, friendly, genial, inf happy-go-lucky,
land, loam, soil, topsoil. indulgent, informal, inf laid-back,
earthenware n ceramics, china, derog lax, lenient, liberal, mellow,
crockery, in/crocks, porcelain, pots, natural, nonchalant, open, patient,
pottery. permissive, placid, relaxed, tolerant,
eat 126

unexcitable, unruffled, derog weak. economize vb be economical, cut

Opp STRICT. back, retrench, save, inf scrimp,
eat vb consume, devour, digest, feed
skimp, spend less, inf tighten your
on, ingest, live on, old use partake of, belt. Opp SQUANDER.
swallow. □ bite, bolt, champ, chew, economy n 1 frugality, derog mean-
crunch, gnaw, gobble, gorge, gorman- ness, derog miserliness, parsimony,
dize, graze, grind, gulp, guzzle, inf make providence, prudence, saving, thrift.
a pig of yourself, masticate, munch, nib- Opp w a s t e . 2 the national economy.
ble, overeat, peck, inf scoff, inf slurp, inf budget, economic affairs, wealth.
stuff (yourself, taste, inf tuck in, inf wolf. 3 > BREVITY.
□ banquet, breakfast, dine, feast, lunch,
snack, old use sup. eat away, eat into ecstasy n bliss, delight, delirium,
> ERODE. elation, enthusiasm, euphoria, exal-
eatable adj digestible, edible, fit to tation, fervour, frenzy, gratification,
eat, good, palatable, safe to eat, happiness, joy, rapture, thrill, trance,
wholesome. > t a s t y . Opp in e d ib l e . old use transport.
ebb vb fall, flow back, go down, ecstatic adj blissful, delighted,
recede; retreat, subside. > d e c l in e . delirious, elated, enraptured, enthu-
eccentric adj 1 aberrant, abnormal, siastic, euphoric, exhilarated, exul-
anomalous, atypical, bizarre, cranky, tant, fervent, frenzied, gleeful, joyful,
curious, freakish, grotesque, idio- orgasmic, overjoyed, inf over the
syncratic, si kinky, odd, outlandish, moon, rapturous, transported.
out of the ordinary, peculiar, pre- > HAPPY.
posterous, quaint, queer, quirky, eddy n circular movement, mael-
singular, strange, unconventional, strom, swirl, vortex, whirl, whirlpool,
unusual, si wacky, inf way-out, inf whirlwind. • vb move in circles, spin,
weird, inf zany. > a b s u r d , ma d . 2 eccen- swirl, turn, whirl.
tric circles, irregular, off-centre. • n
inf character, inf crackpot, crank, inf edge n 1 border, boundary, brim,
freak, individualist, nonconformist, brink, circumference, frame, kerb,
inf oddball, oddity, inf weirdie, inf limit, lip, margin, outline, perimeter,
weirdo. periphery, rim, side, verge. 2 edge
echo vb 1 resound, reverberate, ring, of town, outlying parts, outskirts, sub-
sound again. 2 ape, copy, duplicate, urbs. 3 edge on a knife, acuteness,
emulate, imitate, mimic, mirror, reit- keenness, sharpness. 4 edge of a cur-
erate, repeat, reproduce, say again. tain. edging, fringe, hem, selvage.
• vb 1 bind, border, fringe, hem, make
eclipse vb 1 block out, blot out, an edge for; trim. 2 edge away, crawl,
cloud, darken, dim, extinguish, creep, inch, move stealthily, sidle,
obscure, veil. > c o v e r . 2 excel, outdo, slink, steal, work your way, worm.
outshine, overshadow, inf put in the
shade, surpass, top. edible adj digestible, eatable, fit to
economic adj budgetary, business, eat, palatable, safe to eat, whole-
financial, fiscal, monetary, money- some. > TASTY. Opp INEDIBLE.
making, trading. edit vb adapt, alter, amend, arrange,
economical adj 1 careful, cheese- assemble, compile, get ready, modify,
paring, frugal, parsimonious, provi- organize, prepare, put together,
dent, prudent, sparing, thrifty. > select, supervise the production of.
mis e r l y . Opp w a s t e f u l . 2 an economical □ abridge, annotate, bowdlerize, censor,
meal, cheap, cost-effective, inexpens- clean up, condense, copy-edit, correct, cut,
ive, lowpriced, money-saving, reas- dub, emend, expurgate, format, polish,
onable, inf value-for-money. Opp proof-read, rearrange, rephrase, revise,
EXPENSIVE. rewrite, select, shorten, splice (film).
 127
elastic
edition n 1 copy, issue, number. efficient adj businesslike, cost-
2 impression, printing, print-run, effective, economic, productive,
publication, version. streamlined, thrifty. > e f f e c t iv e . Opp
educate vb bring up, civilize, coach, INEFFICIENT.
counsel, cultivate, discipline, drill, effort n 1 application, diligence, inf
edify, enlighten, guide, improve, elbow grease, endeavour, exertion,
inculcate, indoctrinate, inform, industry, labour, pains, strain, stress,
instruct, lecture, nurture, rear, striving, struggle, toil, old use travail,
school, teach, train, tutor. trouble, work. 2 a brave effort.
educated adj cultured, enlightened, attempt, endeavour, go, try, venture.
erudite, knowledgeable, learned, lit- 3 a successful effort, accomplishment,
erate, numerate, sophisticated, achievement, exploit, feat, job, out-
trained, well-bred, well-read. come, product, production, result.
education n coaching, curriculum, effusive adj demonstrative, ebul-
enlightenment, guidance, indoc- lient, enthusiastic, exuberant, ful-
trination, instruction, schooling, syl- some, gushing, lavish, inf over the
labus, teaching, training, tuition. top, profuse, voluble. Opp r e t ic e n t .
□ academy, college, conservatory, poly- egoism n egocentricity, egotism,
technic, sixth-form college, tertiary col- narcissism, pride, self-centredness,
lege, university. t> s c h o o l , t e a c h in g . self-importance, self-interest, self-
eerie adj inf creepy, frightening, ishness, self-love, self-regard, vanity.
ghostly, mysterious, inf scary, spec- egotistical adj egocentric, self-
tral, inf spooky, strange, uncanny, admiring, self-centred, selfish.
unearthly, unnatural, weird. > CONCEITED.
effect n 1 aftermath, conclusion, eject vb 1 banish, inf boot out, inf
consequence, impact, influence, bundle out, deport, discharge, dis-
issue, outcome, repercussion, result, miss, drive out, evict, exile, expel,
sequel, upshot. 2 feeling, illusion, get rid of, inf kick out, oust, push
impression, sensation, sense. • vb out, put out, remove, sack, send out,
accomplish, achieve, bring about, shoot out, inf shove out, throw out,
bring in, carry out, cause, create, turn out. 2 t> e m it .
effectuate, enforce, execute, imple-
ment, initiate, make, produce, put elaborate adj 1 complex, com-
into effect, secure. plicated, detailed, exhaustive, intri-
cate, involved, meticulous, minute,
effective adj 1 able, capable, com- painstaking, thorough, well worked
petent, effectual, efficacious, func- out. 2 elaborate decor, baroque, busy,
tional, impressive, potent, powerful, Byzantine, decorative, fancy, fantas-
productive, proficient, real, service- tic, fussy, grotesque, intricate, orna-
able, strong, successful, useful, mental, ornamented, ornate, rococo,
worthwhile. > e f f ic ie n t . 2 an effective showy. Opp s impl e . • vb add to, adorn,
argument, cogent, compelling, con- amplify, complicate, decorate, dev-
vincing, meaningful, persuasive, elop, embellish, enlarge on, enrich,
striking, telling. Opp in e f f e c t iv e . expand, expatiate on, fill out, flesh
effeminate adj camp, effete, girlish, out, give details of, improve on,
inf pansy, inf sissy, unmanly, weak, ornament. Opp s impl if y .
womanish. Opp ma n l y . elapse vb go by, lapse, pass, slip by.
effervesce vb bubble, ferment, fizz, elastic adj bendy, bouncy, ductile,
foam, froth, sparkle. expandable, flexible, plastic, pliable,
effervescent adj bubbling, bubbly, pliant, resilient, rubbery, inf springy,
carbonated, fizzy, foaming, frothy, stretchable, inf stretchy, yielding.
gassy, sparkling. Opp r ig id .
elderly 128

elderly adj ageing, inf getting on, eligible adj acceptable, allowed,
oldish. > o l d . appropriate, authorized, available,
competent, equipped, fit, fitting,
elect adj [goes after noun] president
proper, qualified, suitable, worthy.
elect, [synonyms used after noun] desig-
nate, to be; [synonyms before noun] Opp in e l ig ib l e .
chosen, elected, prospective, selected. eliminate vb 1 abolish, annihilate,
• vb adopt, appoint, choose, name, delete, destroy, dispense with, do
nominate, opt for, pick, select, vote away with, eject, end, eradicate,
for. exterminate, extinguish, finish off,
get rid of, put an end to, remove,
election n ballot, choice, plebiscite,
stamp out. > k il l . 2 cut out, drop,
poll, referendum, selection, vote, vot-
exclude, knock out, leave out, omit,
ing.
reject.
electioneer vb campaign, canvass,
elite n aristocracy, best, inf cream,
electorate n constituents, electors, first-class people, flower, merito-
voters. cracy, nobility, top people, inf upper
electric adj 1 battery-operated, elec- crust.
trical; mains-operated. 2 electric eloquent adj articulate, expressive,
atmosphere, electrifying. t> e x c it in g . fluent, forceful, derog glib, moving,
electricity n current, energy, power, persuasive, plausible, powerful,
power supply. unfaltering. Opp in a r t ic u l a t e .
elegant adj artistic, beautiful, chic, elude vb avoid, circumvent, dodge,
courtly, cultivated, dapper, debonair, inf duck, escape, evade, foil, get away
dignified, exquisite, fashionable, from, inf give (someone) the slip,
fine, genteel, graceful, gracious, shake off, slip away from.
handsome, luxurious, modish, noble, elusive adj 1 inf always on the move,
pleasing, inf plush, inf posh, refined, evasive, fugitive, hard to find, slip-
smart, soigne(e), sophisticated, splen- pery. 2 elusive meaning, ambiguous,
did, stately, stylish, suave, tasteful, baffling, deceptive, hard to pin down,
urbane, well-bred. Opp in e l e g a n t . indefinable, intangible, puzzling,
elegy n dirge, lament, requiem, shifting.
element n 1 component, con- emaciated adj anorectic, atrophied,
stituent, detail, essential, factor, fea- bony, cadaverous, gaunt, haggard,
ture, fragment, hint, ingredient, shrivelled, skeletal, skinny, starved,
part, piece, small amount, trace, underfed, undernourished, wasted
unit. 2 in your element, domain, en- away, wizened. > t h in .
vironment, habitat, medium, sphere, emancipate vb deliver, discharge,
territory, elements > r u d im e n t s , enfranchise, free, give rights to, let
w ea t h er . go, liberate, loose, manumit, release,
elementary adj basic, early, first, set free, unchain. Opp e n s l a v e .
fundamental, initial, introductory, embankment n bank, causeway,
primary, principal, rudimentary, dam, earthwork, mound, rampart.
simple, straightforward, uncom-
embark vb board, depart, go aboard,
plicated, understandable. > e a s y .
leave, set out. Opp d is e mb a r k , embark
Opp ADVANCED.
On > BEGIN.
elevate vb exalt, hold up, lift, make
embarrass vb abash, chagrin, con-
higher, promote, rear. > r a is e .
fuse, discomfit, discompose, discon-
elevated > h ig h , n o b l e .
cert, discountenance, disgrace,
elicit vb bring out, call forth, derive, distress, fluster, humiliate, inf make
draw out, evoke, extort, extract, get, you blush, mortify, inf put you on
obtain, wrest, wring. the spot, shame, inf show up, upset.
129 employed
embarrassed > a s h a m e d , embar- pre-eminent, prominent, renowned,
rassing > AWKWARD, SHAMEFUL. well-known. Opp l o w l y .
embellish vb adorn, beautify, emit vb belch, discharge, disgorge,
deck, decorate, embroider, garnish, ejaculate, eject, exhale, expel, exude,
ornament, si tart up, inf titivate. give off, give out, issue, radiate, send
> ELABORATE. out, spew out, spout, transmit, vent,
embezzle vb appropriate, misapply, vomit.
misappropriate, peculate, inf put emotion n agitation, excitement,
your hand in the till, take fraudu- feeling, fervour, passion, sentiment,
lently. > STEAL. warmth. > a n g e r , l o v e , etc.
embezzlement n fraud, misappro- emotional adj 1 ardent, demon-
priation, misuse of funds, peculation, strative, enthusiastic, excited, fer-
stealing, theft. vent, fieiy, heated, hot-headed,
embittered adj acid, bitter, disillu- impassioned, intense, irrational,
sioned, envious, rancorous, resent- moved, passionate, romantic, stirred,
ful, sour. > ANGRY. touched, warm-hearted, inf worked
up. > a n g r y , l o v in g , etc. 2 emotional
emblem n badge, crest, device, language, affecting, biased, emotive,
image, insignia, mark, regalia, seal, heartfelt, heart-rending, inflam-
sign, symbol, token. matoiy, loaded, moving, pathetic,
embody vb 1 exemplify, express, poignant, prejudiced, provocative,
incarnate, manifest, personify, reify, sentimental, stirring, subjective,
represent, stand for, symbolize. tear-jerking, tender, touching. Opp
2 bring together, combine, comprise, UNEMOTIONAL.
embrace, enclose, gather together, emphasis n accent, attention, force,
include, incorporate, integrate, gravity, importance, intensity, prior-
involve, take in, unite. ity, prominence, strength, stress,
embrace vb 1 clasp, cling to, cuddle, urgency, weight.
enfold, fondle, grasp, hold, hug, kiss, emphasize vb accent, accentuate,
snuggle up to. 2 embrace new ideas. bring out, dwell on, focus on, fore-
accept, espouse, receive, take on, wel- ground, give emphasis to, highlight,
come. 3 > EMBODY. impress, insist on, make obvious, inf
embryonic adj early, immature, just play up, point up, inf press home, inf
beginning, rudimentaiy, under- rub it in, show clearly, spotlight,
developed, undeveloped, unformed. stress, underline, underscore.
Opp MATURE. emphatic adj affirmative, assertive,
emerge vb appear, arise, be revealed, categorical, confident, dogmatic, def-
come out, come to light, come to inite,. firm, forceful, insistent, posit-
notice, emanate, old use issue forth, ive, pronounced, resolute, strong,
leak out, inf pop up, proceed, sur- uncompromising, unequivocal. Opp
face, transpire, inf turn out. TENTATIVE.
emergency n crisis, danger, diffi- empirical adj experiential, experi-
culty, exigency, predicament, serious mental, observed, practical, prag-
situation. matic. Opp THEORETICAL.
emigrate vb depart, go abroad, employ vb 1 commission, engage,
leave, quit, relocate, resettle, set out. enlist, have on the payroll, hire, pay,
eminent adj august, celebrated, sign up, take on, use the services of.
conspicuous, distinguished, elevated, 2 apply, use, utilize.
esteemed, exalted, familiar, famous, employed adj active, busy, earning,
great, high-ranking, honoured, engaged, hired, involved, in work,
illustrious, important, notable, occupied, practising, working. > b u s y .
noted, noteworthy, outstanding, Opp UNEMPLOYED.
employee 130

employee n old use hand, inf under- encounter n 1 confrontation, meet-

ling, worker, employees staff, ing. 2 [military] battle, brush, clash,
workforce. dispute, skirmish, struggle. > f ig h t . •
vb chance upon, clash with, come
employer n boss, chief, inf gaffer,
upon, confront, contend with, inf
inf governor, head, manager, owner,
cross swords with, face, grapple with,
proprietor, taskmaster.
happen upon, have an encounter
employment n business, calling, with, meet, inf run into.
craft, job, line, livelihood, living, encourage vb 1 abet, advocate, an-
metier, occupation, profession, pur- imate, applaud, cheer, inf egg on,
suit, trade, vocation, work. embolden, give hope to, hearten,
empty adj 1 bare, blank, clean, incite, inspire, invite, persuade,
clear, deserted, desolate, forsaken, prompt, rally, reassure, rouse, spur
hollow, unfilled, unfurnished, unin- on, support, urge. 2 encourage sales.
habited, unladen, unoccupied, un- aid, be an incentive to, be conducive
used, vacant, void. Opp f u l l . 2 empty to, boost, engender, foster, further,
threats, futile, idle, impotent, generate, help, increase, induce, pro-
ineffective, insincere, meaningless, mote, stimulate. Opp d is c o u r a g e .
pointless, purposeless, senseless, encouragement n applause, app-
silly, unreal, worthless. • vb clear, roval, boost, cheer, exhortation,
discharge, drain, eject, evacuate, incentive, incitement, inspiration,
exhaust, pour out, remove, take out, reassurance, inf shot in the arm,
unload, vacate, void. Opp f il l . stimulation, stimulus, support. Opp
enable vb aid, allow, approve, assist, DISCOURAGEMENT.
authorize, charter, empower, entitle, encouraging adj comforting,
equip, facilitate, franchise, help, heartening, hopeful, inspiring, opti-
license, make it possible, permit, pro- mistic, positive, promising, reassur-
vide the means, qualify, sanction. ing. > FAVOURABLE.
Opp PREVENT.
encroach vb enter, impinge,
enchant vb allure, beguile, bewitch, infringe, intrude, invade, make
captivate, cast a spell on, charm, inroads, trespass, violate.
delight, enrapture, enthral, entrance, end n 1 boundary, edge, extreme,
fascinate, hypnotize, mesmerize, extremity, limit, pole, tip. 2 cessa-
spellbind, enchanting > a t t r a c t iv e . tion, close, coda, completion, con-
enchantment n charm, conjura- clusion, culmination, curtain (of
tion, magic, sorceiy, spell, witchcraft, play), denouement (of plot), ending,
wizardry. > d e l ig h t . expiration, expiry, finale, finish, inf
pay-off, resolution. 3 journey’s end.
enclose vb bound, box, cage, case,
destination, home, termination, ter-
cocoon, conceal, confine, contain,
minus. 4 end of a queue, back, rear,
cover, encase, encircle, encompass,
tail. 5 end ofyour life, destiny, destruc-
enfold, envelop, fence in, hedge in,
tion, doom, extinction, fate, passing,
hem in, immure, insert, limit, pack-
ruin. > d e a t h . 6 an end in view, aim,
age, parcel up, pen, restrict, ring,
aspiration, consequence, design,
secure, sheathe, shut in, shut up, sur-
effect, intention, objective, outcome,
round, wall in, wall up, wrap.
plan, purpose, result, upshot. Opp
> IMPRISON.
b e g in n in g . • vb 1 abolish, break, off,
enclosure n 1 arena, cage, com- bring to an end, complete, conclude,
pound, coop, corral, court, courtyard, cut off, destroy, discontinue, inf drop,
farmyard, field, fold, paddock, pen, eliminate, exterminate, finalize, inf
pound, ring, run, sheepfold, stock- get rid of, halt, phase out, inf put an
ade, sty, yard. 2 enclosure in an envel- end to, inf round off, ruin, scotch,
ope. contents, inclusion, insertion. terminate, inf wind up. 2 break up,
131 enjoy
cease, close, come to an end, culmin- powerful, quick-moving, spirited,
ate, die, disappear, expire, fade away, strenuous, tireless, unflagging,
finish, inf pack up, reach a climax, vigorous, zestful. Opp l e t h a r g ic .
stop. Opp BEGIN.
energy n 1 animation, ardour, inf
endanger vb expose to risk, imperil, dash, drive, dynamism, elan, enthu-
jeopardize, put at risk, threaten. Opp siasm, exertion, fire, force, force-
PROTECT. fulness, inf get-up-and-go, inf go, life,
endearing adj appealing, attractive, liveliness, might, inf pep, spirit,
captivating, charming, disarming, stamina, strength, verve, vigour, inf
enchanting, engaging, likable, lov- vim, vitality, vivacity, zeal, zest. Opp
able, sweet, winning, winsome. Opp l e t h a r g y . 2 fuel, power.
REPULSIVE. enforce vb administer, apply, carry
endeavour vb aim, aspire, attempt, out, compel, execute, implement,
do your best, exert yourself, strive, impose, inflict, insist on, prosecute,
tiy. put into effect, require, stress. Opp
endless adj 1 boundless, immea- WAIVE.
surable, inexhaustible, infinite, lim- engage vb 1 contract with, employ,
itless, measureless, unbounded, enlist, hire, recruit, sign up, take on.
unfailing, unlimited. 2 abiding, 2 cogs engage, bite, fit together, inter-
ceaseless, constant, continual, lock. 3 engage to do something. t>
continuous, enduring, eternal, ever- pr o mis e . 4 engaged me in gossip. t>
lasting, immortal, incessant, inter- o c c u py . 5 engage in sport. t> pa r h c ipa t e .
minable, never-ending, nonstop,
perpetual, persistent, unbroken, engaged adj 1 affianced, betrothed,
undying, unending, uninterrupted. old use plighted, old use promised, old
use spoken for. 2 > b u s y .
endorse vb 1 advocate, agree with,
approve, authorize, inf back, con- engagement n 1 betrothal, promise
done, confirm, inf OK, sanction, set to marry, old use troth. 2 social engage-
your seal of approval to, subscribe ments. appointment, arrangement,
to, support. 2 endorse a cheque, coun- commitment, date, fixture, meeting,
tersign, sign. obligation, rendezvous. 3 > b a t t l e .
endurance n determination, forti- engine n 1 machine, motor. □ diesel,
tude, patience, perseverance, per- electric, intemalcombustion, jet, out-
sistence, pertinacity, resolution, board, petrol, steam, turbine, turbo-jet,
stamina, staying-power, strength, turbo-prop. 2 locomotive.
tenacity. engineer n mechanic, technician.
endure vb 1 carry on, continue, exist, • Vb > CONSTRUCT, DEVISE.
last, live on, persevere, persist, pre-
vail, remain, stay, survive. 2 bear, engrave vb carve, chisel, etch,
cope with, experience, go through, inscribe. > c u t .
inf put up with, stand, inf stick, inf enigma n conundrum, mystery, inf
stomach, submit to, suffer, si sweat it poser, problem, puzzle, riddle.
out, tolerate, undergo, weather, enjoy vb 1 admire, appreciate, bask
withstand, enduring > e n d l e s s . in, be happy in, delight in, inf go in
enemy n adversary, antagonist, for, indulge in, inf lap up, luxuriate
assailant, attacker, competitor, foe, in, rejoice in, relish, revel in, savour,
opponent, opposition, the other side, take pleasure from, take pleasure in.
rival, inf them. Opp f r ie n d . t> l ik e . 2 benefit from, experience,
energetic adj active, animated, have, take advantage of, use. enjoy
brisk, dynamic, enthusiastic, yourself celebrate, inf gad about, inf
fast, forceful, hard-working, high- have a fling, have a good time, make
powered, indefatigable, lively, merry.
enjoyable 132

enjoyable adj agreeable, amusing, Opp d e pa r t . 2 dig into, penetrate,

delirious, delightful, diverting, enter- pierce, puncture, push into. 3 enter a
taining, gratifying, likeable, inf nice, contest, engage in, enlist in, enrol in,
pleasurable, rewarding, satisfying. > inf go in for, join, participate in, sign
PLEASANT. Opp UNPLEASANT. up for, take part in, take up, volun-
enlarge vb amplify, augment, blow teer' for. 4 enter names on a list, add,
up, broaden, build up, develop, inscribe, insert, note down, put
dilate, distend, diversify, elongate, down, record, register, set down,
expand, extend, fill out, grow, sign, write. Opp r e mo v e , enter into >
increase, inflate, lengthen, magnify, BEGIN.
multiply, spread, stretch, sup- enterprise n 1 adventure, effort,
plement, swell, wax, widen. Opp endeavour, operation, programme,
d e c r e a s e , enlarge on > ELABORATE. project, undertaking, venture. 2
enlighten vb edify, illuminate, adventurousness, ambition, bold-
inform, make aware. > t e a c h . ness, courage, daring, determination,
drive, energy, in/get-up-and-go, ini-
enlist vb 1 conscript, engage, enrol,
tiative, in/push. 3 business, com-
impress, muster, recruit, sign up. pany, concern, firm, organization.
2 enlist in the army, enrol, enter, join
up, register, sign on, volunteer. enterprising adj adventurous, ambi-
3 enlist help. > o b t a in . tious, bold, courageous, daring,
determined, eager, energetic, enthu-
enliven vb animate, arouse, siastic, in/go-ahead, derog go-getting,
brighten, cheer up, energize, inspire,
hard-working, imaginative, indefat-
in/pep up, quicken, rouse, stimulate,
igable, industrious, intrepid, keen,
vitalize, wake up.
purposeful, in/pushful, derog pushy,
enormous adj Brobdingnagian, resourceful, spirited, venturesome,
colossal, elephantine, gargantuan, vigorous, zealous. Opp u n a d v e n t u r o u s .
giant, gigantic, gross, huge, hulking,
entertain vb 1 amuse, cheer up,
immense, inf jumbo, mammoth,
delight, divert, keep amused, make
massive, mighty, monstrous, moun-
laugh, occupy, please, regale, inf
tainous, prodigious, stupendous,
tickle. Opp b o r e . 2 entertain friends.
titanic, towering, tremendous, vast.
accommodate, be host to, be hostess
> BIG. Opp SMALL.
to, cater for, give hospitality to, inf
enough adj adequate, ample, as put up, receive, treat, welcome.
much as necessary, sufficient. 3 entertain an idea, accept, agree to,
enquire vb ask, beg, demand, approve, consent to, consider, con-
entreat, implore, inquire, query, template, harbour, support, take
question, quiz, request, enquire seriously. Opp ig n o r e , entertaining >
about > INVESTIGATE. INTERESTING.
enrage vb incense, inflame, infuri- entertainer n artist, artiste, per-
ate, madden, provoke. > a n g e r . former. □ acrobat, actor, actress, bal-
enslave vb disenfranchise, dom- lerina, broadcaster, busker, clown,
inate, make slaves of, subject, sub- comedian, comic, compere, conjurer,
jugate, take away the rights of. Opp dancer, disc jockey, DJ, impersonator,
EMANCIPATE. jester, juggler, lion-tamer, magician,
matador, mime artist, minstrel, singer,
ensure vb confirm, guarantee, make stunt man, toreador, trapeze artist,
certain, make sure, secure. trouper, ventriloquist. > m u s ic ia n .
entail vb call for, demand, give rise
entertainment n 1 amusement,
to, involve, lead to, necessitate, distraction, diversion, enjoyment,
require. fun, night-life, pastime, play, pleas-
enter vb 1 arrive, come in, get in, go ure, recreation, sport. 2 divertisse-
in, infiltrate, invade, move in, step in. ment, exhibition, extravaganza,
 133 ephemeral
performance, presentation, produc- entrails plur n bowels, guts, inf
tion, show, spectacle. □ ballet, bull- innards, inner organs, inf insides,
fight, cabaret, casino, ceilidh, cinema, intestines, viscera.
circus, concert, dance, disco, discotheque, entrance n 1 access, admission,
fair, firework display, flower show, admittance. 2 appearance, arrival,
gymkhana, motor show, nightclub, coming, entry. 3 door, doorway, gate,
pageant, pantomime, play, radio, recital, gateway, ingress, opening, portal,
recitation, revue, rodeo, son et lumiere, turnstile, way in. 4 ante-room,
tattoo, television, variety show, wax- entrance hall, foyer, lobby, passage,
works, ZOO. > DANCE, DRAMA, MUSIC, passageway, porch, vestibule. Opp
SPORT. EXIT.
enthusiasm n 1 ambition, ardour,
entrant n applicant, candidate, com-
avidity, commitment, drive, eager-
petitor, contender, contestant, entry,
ness, excitement, exuberance, derog
participant, player, rival.
fanaticism, fervour, gusto, keenness,
panache, passion, relish, spirit, verve, entreat vb ask, beg, beseech,
zeal, zest. Opp a pa t h y . 2 craze, diver- implore, importune, petition, sue,
sion, inf fad, hobby, interest, passion, supplicate. > r e q u e s t .
pastime. entry n 1 insertion, item, jotting, fist-
enthusiast n addict, adherent, ing, note, record. 2 > e n t r a n c e . 3 >
admirer, aficionado, inf buff, cham- ENTRANT.
pion, devotee, fan, fanatic, si fiend, si envelop vb cloak, cover, enclose,
freak, lover, supporter, zealot. enfold, enshroud, enwrap, shroud,
enthusiastic adj ambitious, ardent, swathe, veil, wrap. > h id e .
avid, committed, inf crazy, delighted, envelope n cover, sheath, wrapper,
devoted, eager, earnest, ebullient, wrapping.
energetic, excited, exuberant, fer-
vent, fervid, hearty, impassioned, enviable adj attractive, covetable,
interested, involved, irrepressible, desirable, favourable, sought-after.
keen, lively, inf mad (about), inf mad envious adj begrudging, bitter, cov-
keen, motivated, optimistic, pas- etous, dissatisfied, inf greeneyed, inf
sionate, positive, rapturous, raring green with envy, grudging, jaun-
(to go), spirited, unqualified, unstint- diced, jealous, resentful.
ing, vigorous, wholehearted, zealous. environment n circumstances, con-
Opp a pa t h e t ic , be enthusiastic ditions, context, ecosystem, envir-
enthuse, get excited, inf go into rap- ons, habitat, location, milieu,
tures, inf go overboard, rave. setting, situation, surroundings, ter-
entice vb allure, attract, cajole, coax, ritoiy.
decoy, inveigle, lead on, lure, per- envisage vb anticipate, contem-
suade, seduce, tempt, trap, wheedle, plate, dream of, envision, fancy, fore-
entire adj complete, full, intact, cast, foresee, imagine, picture,
sound, total, unbroken, undivided, predict, visualize.
uninterrupted, whole. envy n bitterness, covetousness,
entitle vb 1 call, christen, designate, cupidity, desire, discontent, dissatis-
dub, name, style, term, title. 2 A faction, ill-will, jealousy, longing,
licence entitles you to drive, allow, resentment. • vb begrudge, grudge,
authorize, empower, enable, justify, resent.
license, permit, qualify, warrant.
ephemeral adj brief, evanescent,
entitlement n claim, ownership, fleeting, fugitive, impermanent,
prerogative, right, title. momentary, passing, short-lived,
entity n article, being, object, organ- temporary, transient, transitory. Opp
ism, thing, whole. PERMANENT.
epidemic 134

epidemic adj general, pandemic, supplies, tackle, inf things, tools,

prevalent, spreading, universal, wide- trappings. > c l o t h e s .
spread. • n outbreak, pestilence, equivalent adj alike, analogous,
plague, rash, upsurge. comparable, corresponding, fair,
episode n 1 affair, event, happening, interchangeable, parallel, propor-
incident, matter, occurrence. 2 chap- tionate, Lat pro rata, similar, syn-
ter, instalment, part, passage, scene, onymous. t> EQUAL.
section. equivocal adj ambiguous, circum-
epitome n 1 archetype, embodi- locutory, equivocating, evasive, non-
ment, essence, exemplar, incarna- committal, oblique, periphrastic,
tion, personification, quintessence, questionable, roundabout, suspect.
representation, type. 2 > s u mma r y . equivocate vb inf beat about the
equal adj balanced, coextensive, bush, be equivocal, dodge the issue,
commensurate, congruent, corres- fence, inf have it both ways, hedge,
pondent, egalitarian, even, fair, prevaricate, quibble, waffle.
identical, indistinguishable, inter- era n age, date, day, epoch, period,
changeable, level, like, matched, time.
matching, proportionate, regular,
eradicate vb eliminate, erase, get
the same, symmetrical, uniform. >
rid of, root out, uproot. > d e s t r o y .
EQUIVALENT. Opp UNEQUAL. • U clone,
compeer, counterpart, equivalent, erase vb cancel, cross out, delete,
fellow, peer, twin. • vb 1 balance, efface,, eradicate, expunge, obliter-
correspond to, draw with, tie with. ate, rub out, wipe away, wipe off. >
2 No one equals Caruso, be in the same REMOVE.
class as, compare with, match, par- erect adj perpendicular, rigid, stand-
allel, resemble, rival, vie with. ing, straight, upright, vertical. • vb
equality n 1 balance, congruence, build, construct, elevate, establish,
correspondence, equivalence, iden- lift up, make upright, pitch (a tent),
tity, similarity, uniformity. Opp b ia s . put up, raise, set up.
2 social equality, egalitarianism, even- erode vb abrade, corrode, eat away,
handedness, fairness, justice, parity. eat into, gnaw away, grind down,
Opp INEQUALITY. wash away, wear away.
equalize vb balance, catch up, com- erotic adj amatory, amorous, aphro-
pensate, even up, level, make equal, disiac, arousing, lubricious, lustful, si
match, regularize, inf square, stand- randy, si raunchy, seductive, sensual,
ardize. venereal, voluptuous. > s e x y .
equate vb assume to be equal, com- err vb be mistaken, be naughty, si
pare, juxtapose, liken, match, paral- boob, inf get it wrong, go astray, go
lel, set side by side. wrong, misbehave, miscalculate, sin,
equilibrium n balance, equanimity, inf slip up, transgress.
equipoise, evenness, poise, stability, errand n assignment, commission,
steadiness, symmetry. duty, job, journey, mission, task, trip.
equip vb accoutre, arm, array, attire, erratic adj 1 aberrant, capricious,
caparison, clothe, dress, fit out, fit changeable, fickle, fitful, fluctuating,
up, furnish, inf kit out, outfit, pro- inconsistent, irregular, shifting, spas-
vide, stock, supply. modic, sporadic, uneven, unpre-
equipment n accoutrements, appar- dictable, unreliable, unstable, un-
atus, appurtenances, si clobber, fur- steady, variable, wayward. Opp
nishings, inf gear, inf hardware, r e g u l a r . 2 aimless, directionless, hap-
implements, instruments, kit, mach- hazard, meandering, wandering.
inery, materials, outfit, para- error n in/bloomer, blunder, si boob,
phernalia, plant, inf rig, inf stuff, Lat corrigendum, Lat erratum, fal-
135 estimate
lacy, falsehood, fault, flaw, gaffe, inf pith, quiddity, quintessence, soul,
howler, inaccuracy, inconsistency, spirit, substance. 2 concentrate,
inexactitude, lapse, misapprehen- decoction, elixir, extract, flavouring,
sion, miscalculation, misconception, fragrance, perfume, scent, tincture.
misprint, mistake, misunderstand- essential adj basic, characteristic,
ing, omission, oversight, sin, in/slip- chief, crucial, elementary, funda-
up, solecism, transgression, old use mental, important, indispensable,
trespass, wrongdoing. > w r o n g . inherent, innate, intrinsic, irreplace-
erupt vb be discharged, be emitted, able, key, leading, main, necessary,
belch, break out, burst out, explode, primary, principal, quintessential,
gush, issue, pour out, shoot out, requisite, vital. Opp in e s s e n t ia l .
spew, spout, spurt, vomit. establish vb 1 base, begin, consti-
eruption n burst, discharge, emis- tute, construct, create, decree, found,
sion, explosion, outbreak, outburst, form, inaugurate, initiate, institute,
rash. introduce, organize, originate, set
escapade n adventure, exploit, inf up, start. 2 establish yourself in a job.
lark, mischief, practical joke, prank, confirm, ensconce, entrench, install,
scrape, stunt. lodge, secure, settle, station. 3 estab-
lish facts. accept, agree, authenticate,
escape n 1 bolt, breakout, depar- certify, confirm, corroborate, decide,
ture, flight, flit, getaway, jail-break, demonstrate, fix, prove, ratify, re-
retreat, running away. 2 discharge, cognize, show to be true, substanti-
emission, leak, leakage, seepage. ate, verify.
3 escape from reality, avoidance,
distraction, diversion, escapism, established adj deep-rooted, deep-
evasion, relaxation, relief. • vb seated, indelible, ineradicable, in-
1 abscond, inf beat it, bolt, break grained, long-lasting, long-standing,
free, break out, inf cut and run, permanent, proven, reliable, re-
decamp, disappear, si do a bunk, spected, rooted, secure, traditional,
elope, flee, fly, get away, inf give well-known, well-tried. Opp n e w .
someone the slip, run away, si establishment n 1 composition,
scarper, slip away, inf slip the net, constitution, creation, formation,
inf take to your heels, inf turn tail. foundation, inauguration, inception,
2 discharge, drain, leak, ooze, pour institution, introduction, setting up.
out, run out, seep. 3 escape the nasty 2 a well-run establishment, business,
jobs, avoid, dodge, duck, elude, evade, company, concern, enterprise, fact-
get away from, shirk, si skive off. ory, household, institution, office,
escapism n day-dreaming, fantasy,
organization, shop.
pretence, unreality, wishful think- estate n 1 area, development,
ing. domain, land. 2 assets, belongings,
capital, chattels, effects, fortune,
escort n 1 bodyguard, convoy,
guard, guide, pilot, protection, pro- goods, inheritance, lands, posses-
sions, property, wealth.
tector, safe-conduct. 2 royal escort.
attendant, entourage, retinue, train. esteem n admiration, credit, es-
3 escort at a dance, chaperon, com- timation, favour, honour, regard,
panion, inf date, partner. • vb accom- respect, reverence, veneration. • vb >
pany, attend, chaperon, conduct, RESPECT.
guard, inf keep an eye on, inf keep estimate n appraisal, approxima-
tabs on, look after, protect, shepherd, tion, assessment, calculation, con-
stay with, usher, watch. jecture, estimation, evaluation,
essence n 1 centre, character, core, guess, inf guesstimate, judgement,
cornerstone, crux, essential quality, opinion, price, quotation, reckoning,
heart, kernel, life, meaning, nature, specification, valuation. • vb appraise,
estimation 136

assess, calculate, compute, conjec- evaporate vb dehydrate, desiccate,

ture, consider, count up, evaluate, disappear, disperse, dissipate, dis-
gauge, guess, judge, project, reckon, solve, dry up, evanesce, melt away,
surmise, think out, weigh up, work vanish, vaporize.
out. evasive adj ambiguous, inf cagey,
estimation n appraisal, appreci- circumlocutory, deceptive, devious,
ation, assessment, calculation, com- disingenuous, equivocal, equivocat-
putation, consideration, estimate, ing, inconclusive, indecisive, indirect,
evaluation, judgement, opinion, rat- inf jesuitical, misleading, non-
ing, view. committal, oblique, prevaricating,
roundabout, inf shifty, sophistical,
estuary n creek, Scot firth, fjord,
uninformative. Opp d ir e c t .
inlet, Scot loch, river mouth.
even adj 1 flat, flush, horizontal,
eternal adj ceaseless, deathless, end- level, plane, smooth, straight, true.
less, everlasting, heavenly, immeas- 2 even pulse, consistent, constant,
urable, immortal, infinite, lasting, equalized, measured, metrical,
limitless, measureless, never-ending, monotonous, proportional, regular,
permanent, perpetual, timeless, rhythmical, symmetrical, unbroken,
unchanging, undying, unending, uniform, unvarying. 3 even scores, bal-
unlimited. > c o n t in u a l . Opp o c c a - anced, equal, identical, level, match-
s io n a l , TRANSIENT.
ing, the same. 4 > e v e n -t e m pe r e d . Opp
eternity n afterlife, eternal life, ir r e g u l a r , even out > f l a t t e n , even
immortality, infinity, perpetuity. up > e q u a l iz e , get even > r e t a l ia t e .
ethical adj decent, fair, good, honest, evening n dusk, poet eventide, poet
just, moral, noble, principled, right- gloaming, nightfall, sundown, sun-
eous, upright, virtuous. Opp immo r a l . set, twilight.
ethnic adj cultural, folk, national, event n 1 affair, business, chance,
racial, traditional, tribal. circumstance, contingency, episode,
eventuality, experience, happening,
etiquette n ceremony, civility, code incident, occurrence. 2 conclusion,
of behaviour, conventions, courtesy, consequence, effect, issue, outcome,
decency, decorum, form, formalities, result, upshot. 3 activity, ceremony,
manners, politeness, propriety, pro- entertainment, function, occasion.
tocol, rules of behaviour, standards 4 sporting event, bout, championship,
of behaviour. competition, contest, engagement,
evacuate vb 1 clear, deplete, drain, fixture, game, match, meeting, tour-
move out, remove, send away, void. nament.
2 abandon, decamp from, desert, even-tempered adj balanced, calm,
empty, forsake, leave, pull out of, composed, cool, equable, even,
quit, relinquish, vacate, withdraw impassive, imperturbable, pacific,
from. peaceable, peaceful, placid, poised,
evade vb 1 avoid, inf chicken out of, reliable, self-possessed, serene, sta-
circumvent, dodge, duck, elude, ble, steady, tranquil, unemotional,
escape from, fend off, flinch from, unexcitable, unruffled. Opp e x c it a b l e .
get away from, shirk, shrink from, eventual adj concluding, con-
shun, sidestep, inf skive, steer clear sequent, destined, due, ensuing,
of, turn your back on. 2 evade expected, final, last, overall, prob-
a question, fudge, hedge, parry. able, resultant, resulting, ultimate.
> EQUIVOCATE. Opp CONFRONT.
everlasting adj ceaseless, deathless,
evaluate vb appraise, assess, calcu- endless, eternal, immortal, incor-
late the value of, estimate, judge, ruptible, infinite, lasting, limitless,
value, weigh up. measureless, never-ending, perman-
137 examine
ent, perpetual, persistent, timeless, graphic, imaginative, provoking,
unchanging, undying, unending. Opp realistic, stimulating, suggestive,
TRANSIENT. vivid.
evermore adv always, eternally, for evoke vb arouse, awaken, call up,
ever, unceasingly. conjure up, elicit, excite, inspire,
evict vb dislodge, dispossess, eject, invoke, kindle, produce, provoke,
expel, si give (someone) the boot, inf raise, rouse, stimulate, stir up, sug-
kick out, oust, put out, remove, gest, summon up.
throw out, inf turf out, turn out. evolution n advance, development,
evidence n attestation, certification, emergence, formation, growth,
confirmation, corroboration, data, improvement, maturation, matur-
demonstration, deposition, docu- ing, progress, unfolding.
mentation, facts, grounds, informa- evolve vb derive, descend, develop,
tion, proof, sign, statement, emerge, grow, improve, mature,
statistics, substantiation, testimony, modify gradually, progress, unfold.
give evidence > t e s t if y .
exact adj 1 accurate, correct, dead
evident adj apparent, certain, clear, (centre), detailed, faithful, faultless,
discernible, manifest, noticeable, flawless, meticulous, painstaking,
obvious, palpable, patent, percep- precise, punctilious, right, rigorous,
tible, plain, self-explanatory, unam- scrupulous, specific, inf spot-on,
biguous, undeniable, unmistakable, strict, true, truthful, veracious. Opp
visible. Opp u n c e r t a in . impr e c is e . 2 exact copy, identical, indis-
evil adj 1 amoral, atrocious, base, tinguishable, literal, perfect. • vb
black-hearted, blasphemous, corrupt, claim, compel, demand, enforce,
criminal, cruel, depraved, devilish, extort, extract, get, impose, insist on,
diabolical, dishonest, fiendish, foul, obtain, require, exacting > d if f ic u l t .
harmful, hateful, heinous, hellish, exaggerate vb 1 amplify, embel-
immoral, impious, infamous, ini- lish, embroider, enlarge, inflate, inf
quitous, irreligious, machiavellian, lay it on thick, magnify, make too
malevolent, malicious, malignant, much of, maximize, overdo, over-
nefarious, pernicious, perverted, emphasize, overestimate, overstate,
reprobate, satanic, sinful, sinister, inf pile it on, inf play up. Opp
treacherous, ungodly, unprincipled, min imiz e . 21> c a r ic a t u r e , exaggerated
unrighteous, vicious, vile, villainous, > EXCESSIVE.
wicked, wrong. > b a d . Opp g o o d . 2 evil
smell, foul, nasty, pestilential, pois- exalt vb boost, elevate, lift, promote,
onous, troublesome, unspeakable, raise, uplift. t> pr a is e , exalted t> h ig h .
Vile. > UNPLEASANT. Opp PLEASANT. • n examination n 1 analysis, apprai-
1 amorality, blasphemy, corruption, sal, assessment, audit, catechism, inf
criminality, cruelty, depravity, dis- exam, inspection, investigation, inf
honesty, fiendishness, heinousness, oral, paper, post-mortem, review,
immorality, impiety, iniquity, old use scrutiny, study, survey, test, inf viva,
knavery, malevolence, malice, mis- Lat viva voce. 2 [medical] inf check-up,
chief, pain, sin, sinfulness, suffering, scan. 3 police examination, cross-exam-
treachery, turpitude, ungodliness, ination, enquiry, inquiry, inquisition,
unrighteousness, vice, viciousness, interrogation, probe, questioning,
villainy, wickedness, wrongdoing. t> trial.
c r im e . 2 Poverty is an evil, affliction, examine vb 1 analyse, appraise,
bane, calamity, catastrophe, curse, audit (accounts), check, inf check out,
disaster, enormity, hardship, harm, explore, inquire into, inspect, invest-
ill, misfortune, wrong. igate, peruse, probe, research, scan,
evocative adj atmospheric, con- scrutinize, sift, sort out, study, si sus
vincing, descriptive, emotive, out, test, vet, weigh up. 2 examine a
example 138

witness, catechize, cross-examine, exceptional adj 1 aberrant, abnor-

cross-question, inf grill, interrogate, mal, anomalous, atypical, curious,
inf pump, question, sound out, try. deviant, eccentric, extraordinaiy,
example n 1 case, illustration, extreme, isolated, memorable,
instance, occurrence, sample, speci- notable, odd, out-of-the-ordinary,
men. 2 example to follow, ideal, peculiar, phenomenal, quirky,
lesson, model, paragon, pattern, rare, remarkable, singular, solitaiy,
prototype, make an example of > special, strange, surprising, uncom-
PUNISH. mon, unconventional, unexpected,
unheard-of, unique, unparalleled,
exasperate vb inf aggravate, drive unprecedented, unpredictable, un-
mad, gall, infuriate, irk, irritate, inf typical, unusual. 2 > e x c e l l e n t .
needle, pique, provoke, rile, vex. > Opp ORDINARY.
ANNOY.
excerpt n citation, clip, extract, frag-
excavate vb burrow, dig, gouge out, ment, highlight, part, passage, quo-
hollow out, mine, scoop out, tation, section, selection.
unearth.
excess n 1 abundance, glut, over-
exceed vb beat, be more than, do abundance, overflow, inf overkill,
more, than, go beyond, go over, out- profit, redundancy, superabundance,
number, outshine, outstrip, overstep, superfluity, surfeit, surplus. Opp
overtake, pass, transcend. > e x c e l . s c a r c it y . 2 debauchery, dissipation,
exceedingly adv amazingly, espe- extravagance, intemperance, over-
cially, exceptionally, excessively, indulgence, profligacy, wastefulness.
extraordinarily, extremely, out- Opp mo d e r a t io n .
standingly, specially, unusually, very, excessive adj 1 disproportionate,
excel vb beat, be excellent, better, do exaggerated, extravagant, extreme,
best, eclipse, outclass, outdo, out- fanatical, immoderate, inordinate,
shine, shine, stand out, surpass, top. intemperate, needless, overdone,
> EXCEED. prodigal, profligate, profuse, super-
excellent adj inface, admirable, inf fluous, undue, unnecessary, un-
brilliant, old use capital, champion, needed, wasteful. > h u g e . Opp in -
choice, consummate, si cracking, dis- a d e q u a t e . 2 excessive prices, exorbitant,
tinguished, esteemed, estimable, extortionate, unjustifiable, unreal-
exceptional, exemplary, extraordin- istic, unreasonable. Opp mo d e r a t e .
ary, inf fabulous, inf fantastic, fine, exchange n deal, interchange, re-
first-class, first-rate, flawless, gor- ciprocity, replacement, substitution,
geous, great, high-class, ideal, imp- inf swap, switch. • vb bargain, barter,
ressive, magnificent, marvellous, change, Convert (currency), inter-
model, notable, outstanding, perfect, change, reciprocate, replace, substi-
inf phenomenal, remarkable, inf tute, inf swap, switch, inf swop, trade,
smashing, splendid, sterling, inf stun- trade in, traffic, exchange words
ning, inf super, superb, superlative, > TALK.
supreme, surpassing, inf terrific, inf excitable adj inf bubbly, chattery,
tip-top, old use top-hole, inf top-notch, edgy, emotional, explosive, fidgety,
top-ranking, inf tremendous, un- fiery, highly-strung, hot-tempered,
equalled, wonderful. Opp b a d . irrepressible, jumpy, lively, mercur-
except vb exclude, leave out, omit, ial, nervous, passionate, quick-
exception n 1 exclusion, omission, tempered, restive, temperamental,
rejection. 2 abnormality, anomaly, unstable, volatile. Opp c a l m .
departure, deviation, eccentricity, excite vb 1 agitate, amaze, animate,
freak, irregularity, oddity, peculiar- arouse, awaken, discompose, disturb,
ity, quirk, rarity, take exception > elate, electrify, enthral, exhilarate,
OBJECT. fluster, inf get going, incite, inflame,
139 exercise
interest, intoxicate, make excited, select, selective, snobbish, inf up-
move, perturb, provoke, rouse, stimu- market.
late, stir up, thrill, titillate, inf turn excreta plur n droppings, dung,
on, upset, urge, inf wind up, inf work excrement, faeces, manure, sewage,
up. 2 excite interest, activate, cause, waste matter.
elicit, encourage, engender, evoke,
excrete vb defecate, evacuate the
fire, generate, kindle, motivate, pro-
bowels, go to the lavatory, relieve
duce, set off, whet. Opp c a l m .
yourself.
excited adj agitated, boisterous, excursion n cruise, expedition,
delirious, eager, enthusiastic, jaunt, journey, outing, ramble, tour,
excitable, exuberant, feverish, fran- trip, voyage. > t r a v e l .
tic, frenzied, heated, inf het up, hys-
excuse n alibi, apology, defence,
terical, impassioned, intoxicated,
explanation, extenuation, justifica-
lively, moved, nervous, overwrought,
tion, mitigation, palliation, plea,
restless, spirited, vivacious, wild. Opp
pretext, rationalization, reason, vin-
APATHETIC.
dication. • vb 1 apologize for, con-
excitement n action, activity, done, disregard, explain away,
adventure, agitation, animation, forgive, ignore, justify, mitigate,
commotion, delirium, drama, eager- overlook, pardon, pass over, sanc-
ness, enthusiasm, furore, fuss, heat, tion, tolerate, vindicate, warrant.
intensity, inf kicks, passion, stimula- 2 absolve, acquit, clear, discharge,
tion, suspense, tension, thrill, unrest. exculpate, exempt, exonerate, free,
let off, inf let off the hook, liberate,
exciting adj cliff-hanging, dramatic,
release. Opp b l a me .
electric, electrifying, eventful, fast-
moving, galvanizing, gripping, execute vb 1 accomplish, achieve,
heady, hair-raising, inspiring, intox- bring off, carry out, complete, dis-
icating, inf nailbiting, provocative, charge, do, effect, enact, finish,
riveting, rousing, sensational, spec- implement, perform, inf pull off.
tacular, spine-tingling, stimulating, 2 kill, put to death. □ behead, bum,
stirring, suspenseful, tense, thrilling. crucify, decapitate, electrocute, garrotte,
> AMAZING. Opp BORING. gas, guillotine, hang, lynch, shoot, stone.
executive n administrator, inf boss,
exclaim vb bawl, bellow, blurt out,
director, manager, officer. > c h ie f .
call, cry out, old use ejaculate, shout,
utter, vociferate, yell. > s a y . exemplary adj admirable, com-
mendable, faultless, flawless, ideal,
exclamation n bellow, call, cry, old model, perfect, praiseworthy, unex-
use ejaculation, expletive, interjec- ceptionable.
tion, oath, shout, swear-word, utter- exemplify vb demonstrate, depict,
ance, vociferation, yell. embody, illustrate, personify, rep-
exclude vb ban, banish, bar, black- resent, show, symbolize, typify.
list, debar, disallow, disown, eject, exempt vb except, exclude, excuse,
except, excommunicate, expel, for- free, let off, inf let off the hook, lib-
bid, interdict, keep out, leave out, erate, release, spare.
lock out, omit, ostracize, oust, out- exercise n 1 action, activity, aer-
law, prohibit, proscribe, put an obics, callisthenics, effort, exertion,
embargo on, refuse, reject, repudi- games, gymnastics, PE, sport, inf
ate, rule out, shut out, veto. > warm-up, inf work-out. 2 military
REMOVE. Opp INCLUDE. exercises, discipline, drill, manoeuvres,
exclusive adj 1 limiting, restricted, operation, practice, training. • vb
sole, unique, unshared. 2 an exclusive 1 apply, bring to bear, display, effect,
club, clannish, classy, closed, fash- employ, execute, exert, expend,
ionable, si posh, private, restrictive, implement, put to use, show, use,
exertion 140

utilize, wield. 2 exercise your body, dis- exist vb 1 be, be found, be in ex-
cipline, drill, exert, jog, keep fit, prac- istence, be real, happen, occur. 2
tise, train, inf work out. 3 t> w o r r y . abide, continue, endure, hold out,
keep going, last, live, remain alive,
exertion n action, effort, endeavour,
subsist, survive, existing t> a c t u a l ,
strain, striving, struggle. t> w o r k .
CURRENT, LIVING.
exhaust n discharge, effluent, emis- existence n actuality, being, con-
sion, fumes, gases, smoke. • vb 1 con- tinuance, life, living, persistence,
sume, deplete, dissipate, drain, diy reality, survival.
up, empty, expend, finish off, inf run
through, sap, spend, use up, void. exit n 1 barrier, door, doorway,
2 debilitate, enervate, inf fag, fatigue, egress, gate, gateway, opening, por-
prostrate, tax, tire, wear out, weary, tal, way out. 2 a hurried exit, depar-
exhausted t> b r e a t h l e s s , w e a r y . ture, escape, evacuation, exodus,
flight, leave-taking, retreat, with-
exhausting adj arduous, back- drawal. • vb t> DEPART.
breaking, crippling, debilitating,
exorbitant adj disproportionate,
demanding, difficult, enervating,
fatiguing, gruelling, hard, laborious, excessive, extortionate, extravagant,
punishing, severe, strenuous, taxing, high, inordinate, outrageous, profit-
tiring, wearying. eering, prohibitive, inf sky-high, inf
steep, inf stiff, inf swingeing, top,
exhaustion n debility, fatigue, las- unjustifiable, unrealistic, unreason-
situde, tiredness, weakness, weari- able, unwarranted. t> e x pe n s iv e . Opp
ness. REASONABLE.
exhaustive adj inf all-out, careful, exotic adj 1 alien, faraway, foreign,
comprehensive, full-scale, intensive, remote, romantic, unfamiliar, won-
meticulous, thorough. Opp in c o mpl e t e . derful. 2 bizarre, colourful, different,
exhibit vb 1 arrange, display, offer,
exciting, extraordinary, foreign-
present, put up, set up, show. looking, novel, odd, outlandish, pecu-
2 exhibit knowledge, air, betray, bran-
liar, rare, singular, strange, striking,
dish, demonstrate, disclose, evid- unfamiliar, unusual, weird. Opp
ence, express, derog flaunt, indicate, ORDINARY.
manifest, derog parade, reveal, derog expand vb 1 amplify, augment,
show off. Opp HIDE. broaden, build up, develop, diversify,
elaborate, enlarge, extend, fill out,
exhibition n demonstration, display,
heighten, increase, make bigger,
inf expo, exposition, presentation,
make longer, prolong. 2 become big-
show.
ger, dilate, distend, grow, increase,
exhilarating adj bracing, cheering, lengthen, open out, stretch, swell,
enlivening, exciting, invigorating, thicken, widen. Opp c o n t r a c t .
refreshing, rejuvenating, stimulat- expanse n area, breadth, extent,
ing, tonic, uplifting. t> h a ppy . range, sheet, space, spread, stretch,
exhort vb advise, encourage, sweep, surface, tract.
harangue, inf give a pep talk to, lec- expansive adj 1 affable, amiable,
ture, sermonize, urge. communicative, effusive, extrovert,
exile n 1 banishment, deportation, friendly, genial, open, outgoing,
expatriation, expulsion, transporta- sociable, well-disposed. t> t a l k a t iv e .
tion. 2 deportee, displaced person, Opp TACITURN. 2 > BROAD. Opp NARROW.
emigre, expatriate, outcast, refugee, expect vb 1 anticipate, await, bank
wanderer. • vb ban, banish, bar, on, bargain for, be prepared for, con-
deport, drive out, eject, evict, expa- template, count on, envisage, fore-
triate, expel, oust, send away, trans- cast, foresee, have faith in, hope for,
port. imagine, look forward to, plan for,
141 explain
predict, prophesy, reckon on, wait expertise, in/know-how, knowledge,
for. 2 expect obedience, consider ne- Fr savoir faire, skill, understanding,
cessary, demand, insist on, look for, wisdom. 3 a nasty experience, adven-
rely on, require, want. 3 I expect he'll ture, circumstance, episode, event,
come, assume, believe, conjecture, happening, incident, occurrence,
guess, imagine, judge, presume, pre- ordeal, trial. • vb encounter, endure,
suppose, suppose, surmise, think, face, go through, have a taste of,
expected > pr e d ic t a b l e . know, meet, practise, sample, suffer,
expectant adj 1 eager, hopeful, inf test out, try, undergo, experienced
keyed up, inf on tenterhooks, optim- > EXPERT.
istic, ready. 2 inf expecting, preg- experiment n demonstration, invest-
nant. igation, inf practical, proof, research,
expedient adj advantageous, advis- test, trial, tiy-out. • vb do experi-
able, appropriate, apropos, benefi- ments, examine, investigate, make
cial, convenient, desirable, helpful, tests, probe, research, test, tiy out.
judicious, opportune, politic, prac-
tical, pragmatic, profitable, propitious, experimental adj 1 exploratory, on
prudent, right, sensible, suitable, trial, pilot, provisional, tentative,
to your advantage, useful, worth- trial. 2 experimental evidence, empir-
while. • n contrivance, device, inf ical, experiential, proved, tested.
dodge, manoeuvre, means, measure, expert adj able, inface, inf brilliant,
method, inf ploy, recourse, resort, capable, competent, inf crack, ex-
ruse, scheme, stratagem, tactics. perienced, knowing, knowledgeable,
expedition n crusade, excursion, master, masterly, practised, profes-
exploration, journey, mission, pil- sional, proficient, qualified, skilful,
grimage, quest, raid, safari, tour, skilled, sophisticated, specialized,
trek, trip, undertaking, voyage. trained, wellversed, worldly-wise. >
c l e v e r . Opp u n s k il f u l . • n inf ace,
expel vb 1 ban, banish, cast out, inf
chuck out, dismiss, drive out, eject, authority, connoisseur, injdab hand,
evict, exile, exorcise, inf fire, in/kick genius, derog know-all, master, inf
out, oust, remove, inf sack, send old hand, professional, pundit, spe-
away, throw out, turn out, inf turf cialist, veteran, virtuoso, derog
out. 2 expel fumes, belch, discharge, wiseacre, in/wizard. Opp a ma t e u r .
emit, exhale, give out, push out, send expertise n adroitness, dexterity,
out, spew out. expertness, judgement, inf know-
expend vb consume, disburse, si dish how, knowledge, Fr savoir faire, skill.
out, employ, pay out, spend, use. expire vb become invalid, cease,
expendable adj disposable, inessen- come to an end, discontinue, finish,
tial, insignificant, replaceable, inf inf run out, terminate. > d ie .
throw-away, unimportant.
explain vb 1 clarify, clear up, de-
expense n charge, cost, disburse-
cipher, decode, define, demonstrate,
ment, expenditure, fee, outgoings, describe, disentangle, elucidate, ex-
outlay, overheads, payment, price, pound, inf get across, inf get over,
rate, spending. gloss, illustrate, interpret, make
expensive adj costly, dear, gener- clear, make plain, provide an explana-
ous, high-priced, over-priced, pre- tion, resolve, shed light on, sim-
cious, inf pricey, inf steep, inf plify, solve, inf sort out, spell out,
up-market, valuable. > e x o r b it a n t . teach, translate, unravel. 2 explain a
Opp CHEAP. mistake, account for, excuse, give reas-
experience n 1 familiarity, involve- ons for, justify, legitimatize, legit-
ment, observation, participation, imize, make excuses for, rationalize,
practice, taking part. 2 background, vindicate.
explanation 142

explanation n 1 account, analysis, unstable, volatile. Opp s t a b l e . • n

clarification, definition, demonstra- cordite, dynamite, gelignite, gun-
tion, description, elucidation, ex- powder, TNT.
egesis, explication, exposition, gloss, exponent n 1 executant, inter-
illustration, interpretation, key, preter, performer, player. 2 advocate,
meaning, rubric, significance, solu- champion, defender, expounder, pre-
tion, translation. 2 cause, excuse, senter, propagandist, proponent,
justification, motivation, motive, supporter, upholder.
rationalization, reason, vindication.
expose vb bare, betray, dig up, dis-
explanatory adj descriptive, expos- close, display, exhibit, lay bare,
itory, helpful, illuminating, illustrat- reveal, show (up), uncover, unearth,
ive, interpretive, revelatory. unmask. > r e v e a l . Opp h id e .
explicit adj categorical, clear, defin- express vb air, articulate, disclose,
ite, detailed, direct, exact, express, give vent to, make known, phrase,
frank, graphic, manifest, open, out- put into words, release, vent, vent-
spoken, patent, plain, positive, pre- ilate, voice, word. > c o mmu n ic a t e .
cise, put into words, said, specific,
expression n 1 cliche, formula,
inf spelt' out, spoken, stated, straight-
phrase, phraseology, remark, state-
forward, unambiguous, unconcealed,
ment, term, turn of phrase, usage,
unequivocal, unhidden, unreserved,
utterance, wording. > s a y in g . 2 articu-
well-defined. Opp impl ic it .
lation, confession, declaration, dis-
explode vb 1 backfire, blast, blow closure', revelation, statement.
up, burst, detonate, erupt, go off, 3 expression in your voice, accent,
make an explosion, set off, shatter. depth, emotion, expressiveness, feel-
2 explode a theory, debunk, destroy, ing, intensity, intonation, nuance,
discredit, disprove, put an end to, pathos, sensibility, sensitivity, sym-
rebut, refute, reject. pathy, tone, understanding. 4 expres-
exploit n achievement, adventure, sion on your face, air, appearance,
attainment, deed, enterprise, feat. • aspect, countenance, face, look,
vb 1 build on, capitalize on, inf cash mien. □ beam, frown, glare, glower, grim-
in on, develop, make capital out of, ace, grin, laugh, leer, long face, lour,
make use of, profit by, profit from, lower, poker-face, pout, scowl, smile,
trade on, use, utilize, work on. smirk, sneer, wince, yawn.
2 exploit people, inf bleed, enslave, ill- expressionless adj 1 blank, inf
treat, impose on, keep down, manip- dead-pan, emotionless, empty,
ulate, inf milk, misuse, oppress, inf glassy, impassive, inscrutable, poker-
rip off, inf squeeze dry, take advant- faced, straight-faced, uncommunic-
age of, treat unfairly, withhold ative, wooden. 2 boring, dull, flat,
rights from. monotonous, uninspiring, unmodu-
explore vb 1 break new ground, lated, unvarying. Opp e x pr e s s iv e .
probe, prospect, reconnoitre, scout, expressive adj 1 indicative, mean-
search, survey, tour, travel through. ingful, mobile, revealing, sensitive,
2 explore a problem, analyse, examine, significant, striking, suggestive,
inspect, investigate, look into, probe, telling. 2 articulate, eloquent, lively,
research, scrutinize, study. modulated, varied. Opp e x pr e s s io n l e s s .
explosion n 1 bang, blast, boom, exquisite adj delicate, elegant, fine,
burst, clap, crack, detonation, dis- intricate, refined, skilful, well-
charge, eruption, firing, report. crafted. t> BEAUTIFUL. Opp CRUDE.
2 explosion of anger, fit, outbreak, out-
extend vb 1 add to, broaden, build
burst, inf paddy, paroxysm, spasm.
up, develop, draw out, enlarge,
explosive adj dangerous, highly- expand, increase, keep going,
charged, liable to explode, sensitive, lengthen, make longer, open up, pad
143 extreme
out, perpetuate, prolong, protract, 1 draw out, extricate, pull out,
inf spin out, spread, stretch, widen. remove, take out, withdraw. 2 extract
2 extend a deadline, defer, delay, post- a confession, extort, force out, inf
pone, put back, put off. 3 extend your winkle out, inf worm out, wrench,
hand, give, hold out, offer, outstretch, wrest, wring. 3 extract what you need.
present, proffer, put out, raise, reach choose, cull, derive, distil, gather,
out, stick out, stretch out. 4 The gar- glean, quote, select. > o b t a in .
den extends to the fence, continue,
range, reach. extraordinary adj abnormal, amaz-
ing, astonishing, astounding, awe-
extensive adj broad, comprehens-
inspiring, bizarre, breathtaking,
ive, expansive, far-ranging, far- curious, exceptional, extreme, fant-
reaching, sweeping, vast, wide, astic, inf funny, incredible, marvel-
wide-spread. > l a r g e . lous, miraculous, mysterious, myst-
extent n amount, area, bounds, ical, notable, noteworthy, odd, out-
breadth, compass, degree, dimen- standing, peculiar, inf phenomenal,
sions, distance, expanse, length, prodigious, queer, rare, remarkable,
limit, magnitude, measure, meas- inf sensational, signal, singular, spe-
urement, proportions, quantity, cial, staggering, strange, striking,
range, reach, scale, scope, size, space, stunning, stupendous, surprising, inf
spread, sweep, width. unbelievable, uncommon, unheard-
exterior adj external, outer, outside, of, unimaginable, unique, unpre-
outward, superficial. • n coating, cov- cedented, unusual, inf weird,
ering, facade, front, outside, shell, wonderful. Opp o r d in a r y .
skin, surface. Opp in t e r io r .
extravagance n excess, immoder-
exterminate vb annihilate, destroy, ation, improvidence, lavish-ness,
eliminate, eradicate, extirpate, get overindulgence, overspending, prod-
rid of, obliterate, put an end to, root igality, profligacy, self-indulgence,
out, terminate. > k il l . wastefulness. Opp e c o n o my .
external adj exterior, outer, outside,
extravagant adj exaggerated, exces-
outward, superficial. Opp in t e r n a l .
sive, flamboyant, grandiose, immod-
extinct adj burnt out, dead, defunct, erate, improvident, lavish, out-
died out, exterminated, extin- rageous, overblown, overdone,
guished, gone, inactive, vanished. > pretentious, prodigal, profligate, pro-
OLD. Opp LIVING. fuse, reckless, self-indulgent, inf
extinguish vb blow out, damp showy, spendthrift, uneconomical,
down, douse, put out, quench, slake, unreasonable, unthrifty, wasteful. >
smother, snuff out, switch off. > EXPENSIVE. Opp e c o n o mic a l .
DESTROY. Opp KINDLE.
extreme adj 1 acute, drastic, exces-
extort vb blackmail, bully, coerce, sive, greatest, intensest, maximum,
exact, extract, force, obtain by force. severest, inf terrific, utmost. > e x t r a -
extra adj accessory, added, addi- o r d in a r y . 2 distant, endmost, far-
tional, ancillary, auxiliary, excess, thest, furthest, furthermost, last,
further, left-over, more, other, outermost, remotest, ultimate, utter-
reserve, spare, superfluous, super- most. 3 extreme opinions, absolute,
numerary, supplementary, surplus, avant-garde, exaggerated, extravag-
temporary, unneeded, unused, ant, extremist, fanatical, inf hard-
unwanted. line, immoderate, intemperate,
extract n 1 concentrate, concentra- intransigent, left-wing, militant,
tion, decoction, distillation, essence, obsessive, outrageous, radical, right-
quintessence. 2 abstract, citation, inf wing, uncompromising, inf way-out,
clip, clipping, cutting, excerpt, pas- zealous. • n bottom, bounds, edge,
sage, quotation, selection. • vb end, extremity, left wing, limit, max-
extroverted 144
imum, minimum, opposite, pole, ous, lush, luxuriant, overflowing,
right wing, top, ultimate. profuse, rank, teeming. Opp a u s t e r e .
extroverted adj active, confident, exultant adj delighted, ecstatic,
exhibitionist, outgoing, positive. > elated, joyful, jubilant, inf on top of
SOCIABLE. Opp INTROVERTED. the world, overjoyed, rejoicing. >
exuberant adj 1 animated, boister- ex u ber a n t .
ous, inf bubbly, buoyant, eager, ebul-
eye n 1 eyeball, inf peeper. 2 dis-
lient, effervescent, energetic, enthus-
cernment, perception, sight, vision. •
iastic, excited, exhilarated, exultant,
vb contemplate, examine, inspect,
high-spirited, irrepressible, lively,
look at, observe, regard, scrutinize,
spirited, sprightly, vivacious. >
study, watch. > s e e .
c h e e r f u l . 2 exuberant decoration.
baroque, exaggerated, highly-dec- eye-witness n bystander, looker-
orated, ornate, overdone, rich, rococo. on, observer, onlooker, passer-by,
3 exuberant growth, abundant, copi- spectator, watcher, witness.
 F
fabric n 1 material, stuff, textile. factory n assembly line, forge,
> c l o t h . 2 fabric of a building, con- foundiy, manufacturing plant, mill,
stitution, construction, framework, plant, refinery, shop-floor, works,
make-up, structure, substance. workshop.
fabulous adj 1 fabled, fairy-tale, fan- factual adj 1 accurate, Lat bona fide,
ciful, fictitious, imaginary, legendary, circumstantial, correct, demon-
mythical, story-book. 2 > e x c e l l e n t . strable, empirical, faithful, genuine,
face n 1 appearance, countenance, matter-of-fact, objective, plain, pro-
features, lineaments, look, si mug, saic, provable, realistic, straightfor-
old use physiognomy, visage. > e x pr e s - ward, true, unadorned, unbiased,
s io n . 2 face of building, aspect, cover- undistorted, unemotional, unimagin-
ing, exterior, facade, facet, front, ative, unvarnished, valid, verifiable,
outside, side, surface. • vb 1 be oppos- well-documented. Opp f a l s e . 2 a fac-
ite, front, look towards, overlook. tual film. biographical, documentary,
2 face danger, appear before, brave, historical, real-life. Opp f ic t io n a l .
come to terms with, confront, cope
with, defy, encounter, experience, faculty n ability, aptitude, capability,
face up to, meet, oppose, square up capacity, flair, genius, gift, knack,
to, stand up to, tackle. 3 face a wall power, talent.
with plaster, clad, coat, cover, dress, fade vb 1 blanch, bleach, darken,
finish, overlay, sheathe, veneer. dim, discolour, dull, etiolate, grow
facetious adj cheeky, flippant, pale, whiten. Opp b r ig h t e n . 2 become
impudent, irreverent. > f u n n y . less, decline, decrease, diminish, dis-
facile adj 1 cheap, easy, effortless, appear, dwindle, evanesce, fail, melt
hasty, obvious, quick, simple, super- away, vanish, wane, weaken. 3 flowers
ficial, unconsidered. 2 facile talker, flu- fade, droop, flag, perish, shrivel, wilt,
ent, glib, insincere, plausible, ready, wither.
shallow, slick, inf smooth. fail vb 1 abort, be a failure, be unsuc-
facility n 1 adroitness, alacrity, ease, cessful, break down, close down,
expertise, fluency, derog glibness, come to an end, inf come to grief,
skill, smoothness. 2 a useful facility. come to nothing, si conk out, inf
amenity, convenience, help, provi- crash, cut out, fall through, inf fizzle
sion, resource, service. out, inf flop, inf fold, fold up, founder,
fact n actuality, certainty, Fr fait give up, go bankrupt, inf go bust, go
accompli, reality, truth. Opp f ic t io n . out of business, meet with disaster,
the facts circumstances, data, miscarry, misfire, inf miss out, peter
details, evidence, information, si the out, stop working. 2 fail in health.
lowdown, particulars, statistics. decay, decline, deteriorate, diminish,
factor n aspect, cause, circumstance, disappear, dwindle, ebb, fade, get
component, consideration, con- worse, give out, melt away, vanish,
stituent, contingency, detail, deter- wane, weaken. 3 fail to do something.
minant, element, fact, influence, forget, neglect, omit. 4 fail someone.
ingredient, item, parameter, part, abandon, disappoint, inf let down.
particular. Opp IMPROVE, SUCCEED.
failing 146

failing n blemish, defect, fault, flaw, able, staunch, steadfast, trusted,

foible, imperfection, shortcoming, trusty, trustworthy, unswerving. 2 a
weakness, weak spot. faithfill account, accurate, close, con-
failure n 1 abandonment, defeat, dis- sistent, exact, factual, literal, precise.
appointment, disaster, downfall, >. TRUE. Opp FALSE.
fiasco, inf flop, loss, miscarriage, inf fake adj artificial, bogus, concocted,
wash-out, wreck. 2 breakdown, col- counterfeit, ersatz, factitious, false,
lapse, crash, stoppage. 3 failure to do fictitious, forged, fraudulent, imita-
your duty, dereliction, neglect, omis- tion, invented, made-up, mock, si
sion, remissness. Opp s u c c e s s . phoney, pretended, sham, simulated,
faint adj 1 blurred, blurry, dim, spurious, synthetic, trumped-up,
faded, feeble, hazy, ill-defined, indis- unfounded, unreal. Opp g e n u in e .
tinct, misty, muzzy, pale, pastel • n 1 copy, counterfeit, dupli-
(colours), shadowy, unclear, vague. cate, forgery, hoax, imitation, rep-
2 faint smell, delicate, slight. 3 faint lica, reproduction, sham, simulation.
sounds, distant, hushed, low, muffled, 2 charlatan, cheat, fraud, hoaxer,
muted, soft, stifled, subdued, thin, humbug, impostor, mountebank, si
weak. 4 faint in the head, dizzy, ex- phoney, quack. • vb affect, copy,
hausted, feeble, giddy, light-headed, counterfeit, dissemble, falsify, feign,
unsteady, vertiginous, weak, inf forge, fudge, imitate, make believe,
woozy. Opp c l e a r , s t r o n g . • vb become mock up, pretend, put on, reproduce,
unconscious, black out, collapse, inf sham, simulate.
flake out, inf keel over, pass out,
swoon. fall n 1 collapse, crash, decline,
decrease, depreciation, descent, dip,
fair adj 1 blond, blonde, flaxen,
dive, downswing, downturn, drop,
golden, light, yellow. 2 fair weather.
lowering, nosedive, plunge, reduc-
bright, clear, clement, cloudless, dry,
favourable, fine, pleasant, sunny. tion, slant, slump, tumble. 2 fall of a
fortress, capitulation, capture, defeat,
Opp d a r k . 3 a fair decision, disinter-
overthrow, seizure, submission, sur-
ested, evenhanded, fair-minded, hon-
render. • vb 1 collapse, inf come a
est, honourable, impartial, just,
cropper, crash down, dive, drop
lawful, legitimate, nonpartisan, open-
down, founder, go down, keel over,
minded, proper, right, unbiased,
overbalance, pitch, plummet, plunge,
unprejudiced, upright. Opp u n j u s t . 4
sink, slump, spiral, stumble, topple,
a fair standard, acceptable, adequate,
average, indifferent, mediocre, mid- trip over, tumble. 2 become less,
dling, moderate, ordinary, passable, become lower, decline, decrease,
diminish, dwindle, ebb, lessen, sub-
reasonable, respectable, satisfactory,
inf so-so, tolerable. Opp u n a c c e pt a b l e . side. 3 descend, drop, fall away, slope
down. 4 curtains fell in folds, be sus-
5 > b e a u t if u l . • n 1 amusement-park,
fair-ground, fun-fair. 2 bazaar, car- pended, cascade, dangle, dip down,
nival, exhibition, festival, fete, gala, hang. 5 silence fell, come, come about,
market, sale, show. happen, occur, settle. 6 > d ie . 7 >
s u r r e n d e r , fall apart > d is in t e g r a t e .
fairly adv moderately, pretty, quite, fall back > r e t r e a t , fall behind >
rather, reasonably, somewhat, toler- l a g . fall down, fall in > c o l l a ps e , fall
ably, up to a point. off > d e c l in e , fall out > q u a r r e l , fall
faith n 1 assurance, belief, certitude, through > f a il .
confidence, credence, reliance, sure-
ness, trust. Opp d o u b t . 2 conviction, fallacy n delusion, error, flaw, mis-
creed, devotion, doctrine, dogma, calculation, misconception, mistake,
persuasion, religion. solecism.
faithful adj 1 constant, dependable, fallible adj erring, frail, human,
devoted, dutiful, honest, loyal, reli- imperfect, liable to make mistakes,
 147 fanatical
uncertain, unpredictable, unreliable, expert in, informed about, knowl-
weak. Opp in f a l l ib l e . edgeable about, trained in, versed in.
fallow adj dormant, resting, uncul- family n 1 brood, children, inf flesh
tivated, unplanted, unsown, unused. and blood, generation, issue, kind-
false adj 1 deceptive, distorted, erro- red, old use kith and kin, litter, inf
neous, fabricated, fallacious, faulty, nearest and dearest, offspring, prog-
fictitious, flawed, imprecise, inac- eny, relations, relatives, inf tribe.
curate, incorrect, inexact, invalid, 2 ancestiy, blood, clan, dynasty,
misleading, mistaken, spurious, extraction, forebears, genealogy,
unfactual, unsound, untrue, wrong. house, line, lineage, pedigree, race,
i> f a k e . 2 false friends, deceitful, dis- strain, tribe. □ ancestor, descendant.
honest, disloyal, double-dealing, □ aunt, brother, child, cousin, daughter,
double-faced, faithless, lying, treach- father, fiance(e), forefather, foster-child,
erous, unfaithful, unreliable, un- foster-parent, godchild, godparent, grand-
trustworthy. Opp t r u e , false name i> child, grandparent, guardian, husband,
PSEUDONYM. Amer junior, kinsman, kinswoman,
mother, nephew, next-of-kin, niece, par-
falsehood n fabrication, inf fib, fic-
ent, sibling, sister, son, step-child, step-
tion, lie, prevarication, inf story, parent, uncle, ward, widow, widower,
untruth, si whopper. wife.
falsify vb alter, inf cook (the books),
counterfeit, distort, exaggerate, fake, famine n dearth, hunger, lack, mal-
forge, inf fudge, imitate, misrepre- nutrition, scarcity, shortage, star-
sent, mock up, oversimplify, pervert, vation, want. Opp PLENTY.
simulate, slant, tamper with, tell lies famished adj craving, famishing,
about, twist. hungry, infpeckish, ravenous, starved,
falter vb 1 become weaker, flag, starving.
flinch, hesitate, hold back, lose con- famous adj acclaimed, big, cel-
fidence, pause, quail, stagger, stum- ebrated, distinguished, eminent,
ble, totter, vacillate, waver. Opp exalted, famed, glorious, great, his-
pe r s is t . 2 stammer, stutter, faltering toric, honoured, illustrious, import-
l> HESITANT. ant, legendary, lionized, notable,
fame n acclaim, celebrity, distinc- noted, derog notorious, outstanding,
tion, eminence, gloiy, honour, illus- popular, prominent, proverbial, re-
triousness, importance, inf kudos, nowned, revered, time-honoured, ven-
name, derog notoriety, pre-eminence, erable, well-known, world-famous.
prestige, prominence, public esteem, Opp UNKNOWN.
renown, reputation, repute, inf star- fan n 1 blower, extractor, propeller,
dom. ventilator. 2 a soccer fan. addict,
familiar adj 1 accustomed, common, admirer, aficionado, inf buff, de-
conventional, current, customary, votee, enthusiast, fanatic, inf fiend,
eveiyday, frequent, habitual, mun- follower, in/freak, lover, supporter.
dane, normal, ordinary, predict- I> FANATIC.
able, regular, routine, stock, fanatic n activist, adherent, bigot,
traditional, usual, well-known. Opp extremist, fiend, freak, maniac, mil-
s t r a n g e . 2 familiar language, inf chatty,
itant, zealot.
close, confidential, derog forward,
inf free-andeasy, derog impudent, fanatical adj bigoted, excessive,
informal, intimate, near, derog pre- extreme, fervent, fervid, immoder-
sumptuous, relaxed, sociable, uncer- ate, irrational, maniacal, militant,
emonious. I> FRIENDLY. Opp FORMAL. obsessive, overenthusiastic, passion-
familiar with acquainted with, inf at ate, rabid, single-minded, zealous.
home with, aware of, conscious of, Opp MODERATE.
fanciful 148

fanciful adj capricious, chimerical, fashion n 1 convention, manner,

fancy, fantastic, illusory, imaginary, method, mode, way. 2 craze, cut, inf
imagined, make-believe, unrealistic, fad, line, look, pattern, rage, style,
whimsical. taste, trend, vogue.
fancy adj decorative, elaborate, fashionable adj Fr [a] la mode, chic,
embellished, embroidered, intricate, contemporaiy, current, elegant, inf
ornamented, ornate. i> f a n c if u l . • n i> in, in vogue, the latest, modem,
ima g in a t io n , w h im . • vb 1 conjure up, modish, popular, smart, inf snazzy,
dream of, envisage, imagine, picture, sophisticated, stylish, tasteful, inf
visualize. > t h in k . 2 be attracted to, trendy, up-to-date, inf with it. Opp
crave, inf have a yen for, like, long UNFASHIONABLE.
for, prefer, want, wish for. i> d e s ir e . fast adv at full tilt, briskly, in no
fantastic adj 1 absurd, amazing, time, post-haste, quickly, rapidly,
elaborate, exaggerated, extraordin- swiftly. • adj 1 breakneck, brisk,
ary, extravagant, fabulous, fanciful, expeditious, express, hasty, head-
far-fetched, grotesque, imaginative, long, high-speed, hurried, lively, inf
implausible, incredible, odd, quaint, nippy, precipitate, quick, rapid,
remarkable, rococo, strange, surreal, smart, inf spanking, speedy, super-
unbelievable, unlikely, unrealistic, sonic, swift, unhesitating. Opp
weird: 2 > e x c e l l e n t . Opp o r d in a r y . s l o w . 2 fast on the rocks, attached,
bound, fastened, firm, fixed, immo-
fantasy n chimera, day-dream, bile, immovable, secure, tight. 3 fast
delusion, dream, fancy, hallucina- colours, indelible, lasting, permanent,
tion, illusion, imagination, invention, stable. 4 fast living. > immo r a l . • vb
make-believe, mirage, pipe-dream, abstain, deny yourself, diet, go hun-
reverie, vision. Opp r e a l it y . gry, go without food, starve. Opp
far adj distant, far-away, far-off, out- INDULGE.
lying, remote. Opp n ea r . fasten vb affix, anchor, attach, bat-
farcical adj absurd, foolish, ludic- ten, bind, bolt, buckle, button, chain,
rous, preposterous, ridiculous, silly. clamp, clasp, cling, close, connect,
> FUNNY. couple, do up, fix, grip, hitch, hook,
knot, join, lace, lash, latch on, link,
fare n 1 charge, cost, fee, payment, lock, make fast, moor, nail, padlock,
price, ticket. 2 festive fare. > f o o d . paste, peg, pin, rivet, rope, screw
farewell adj goodbye, last, leaving, down, seal, secure, solder, staple,
parting, valedictory. • n departure, strap, tack, tape, tether, tie, unite,
leave-taking, inf send-off, valediction. weld. > s t ic k . Opp UNDO.
> GOODBYE. fastener n'bond, connection, con-
farm n farmhouse, farmstead, old use nector, coupling, fastening, link,
grange. □ arable farm, croft, dairy farm, linkage. □ anchor, bolt, buckle, button,
fish farm, fruit farm, livestock farm, catch, chain, clamp, clasp, clip, dowel,
organic farm, plantation, poultry farm, dowel-pin, drawing-pin, glue, gum, hasp,
ranch, smallholding. hook, knot, lace, latch, lock, mooring,
nail, padlock, painter, paste, peg, pin,
farming n agriculture, agronomy, rivet, rope, safety-pin, screw, seal, Sello-
crofting, cultivation, foodproduction, tape, solder, staple, strap, string, tack,
husbandry. tape, tether, tie, toggle, Velcro, wedge,
fascinate vb allure, attract, beguile, zip.
bewitch, captivate, charm, delight, fastidious adj choosy, dainty, delic-
enchant, engross, enthral, entice, ate, discriminating, finical, finicky,
entrance, hypnotize, interest, mes- fussy, hard to please, nice, particular,
merize, rivet, spellbind, fascinating inf pernickety, inf picky, selective,
l> ATTRACTIVE. squeamish.
 149
fear
fat adj 1 bloated, inf broad in the condition, irreproachable, sinless,
beam, bulky, chubby, corpulent, unimpeachable. > pe r f e c t . Opp f a u l t y .
dumpy, flabby, fleshy, gross, heavy,
massive, obese, overweight, paunchy, faulty adj broken, damaged, defect-
plump, podgy, portly, pot-bellied, ive, deficient, flawed, illogical, im-
pudgy, rotund, round, solid, perfect, inaccurate, incomplete,
squat, stocky, stout, thick, tubby, incorrect, inoperative, invalid, not
weighty, well-fed. t> b ig . 2 fat meat. working, out of order, shop-soiled,
fatty, greasy, oily. Opp l e a n . • n □ adi- unusable, useless. Opp f a u l t l e s s .
pose tissue, blubber, butter, dripping, favour n 1 acceptance, approbation,
grease, lard, margarine, oil, suet. approval, bias, favouritism, friendli-
fatal adj 1 deadly, final, incurable, ness, goodwill, grace, liking, partial-
lethal, malignant, mortal, terminal. ity, preference, support. 2 Do me a
2 t> DISASTROUS. favour, benefit, courtesy, gift, good
deed, good turn, indulgence, kind-
fatality n casualty, death, loss. ness, service. • vb 1 approve of, be in
fate n 1 chance, destiny, doom, for- sympathy with, champion, choose,
tune, karma, kismet, lot, luck, commend, esteem, inf fancy, inf go
nemesis, inf powers above, predes- for, like, opt for, prefer, show favour
tination, providence, the stars. to, think well of, value. Opp d is l ik e .
2 death, demise, destruction, disas- 2 abet, advance, back, be advant-
ter, downfall, end, ruin. ageous to, befriend, forward, pro-
fated adj certain, cursed, damned, mote, support. > HELP. Opp HINDER.
decreed, destined, doomed, fore- favourable adj 1 advantageous,
ordained, inescapable, inevitable, appropriate, auspicious, beneficial,
intended, predestined, predeter- benign, convenient, following (wind),
mined, preordained, sure. friendly, generous, helpful, kind,
father n begetter, inf dad, inf daddy, opportune, positive, promising, pro-
inf pa, inf papa, parent, old use pater, pitious, reassuring, suitable, sup-
inf pop, sire. portive, sympathetic, understanding,
well-disposed. 2 a favourable review.
fatigue n debility, exhaustion, feeble-
ness, languor, lassitude, lethargy, approving, commendatoiy, compli-
tiredness, weakness, weariness. • vb mentary, congratulatory, encour-
debilitate, drain, enervate, exhaust, aging, enthusiastic, laudatory. 3 a
tire, weaken, weary, fatigued favourable reputation, agreeable, desir-
able, enviable, good, pleasing, satis-
t> WEARY.
factory. Opp UNFAVOURABLE.
fault n 1 blemish, defect, deficiency,
demerit, failing, failure, fallacy, flaw, favourite adj beloved, best, choice,
foible, frailty, imperfection, inaccur- chosen, dearest, esteemed, ideal,
acy, malfunction, snag, weakness. liked, loved, popular, preferred,
2 blunder, inf boob, error, failing, Fr selected, well-liked. • n 1 choice, pick,
faux pas, gaffe, inf howler, indiscre- preference. 2 inf apple of your eye,
tion, lapse, miscalculation, miscon- darling, idol, pet.
duct, misdeed, mistake, negligence, fear n alarm, anxiety, apprehension,
offence, omission, oversight, pecca- apprehensiveness, awe, concern, con-
dillo, shortcoming, sin, slip, trans- sternation, cowardice, cravenness,
gression, old use trespass, vice, diffidence, dismay, doubt, dread,
wrongdoing. 3 It was my fault. faint-heartedness, foreboding, fright,
accountability, blame, culpability, inf funk, horror, misgiving, ner-
guilt, liability, responsibility. • vb t> vousness, panic, phobia, qualm,
CRITICIZE. suspicion, terror, timidity, trepida-
faultless adj accurate, correct, tion, uneasiness, worry. > ph o b ia . Opp
exemplaiy, flawless, ideal, in mint c o u r a g e . • vb be afraid of, dread, quail
 150
fearful
at, shrink from, suspect, tremble at, infirm, languid, listless, poorly, pow-
worry about. erless, puny, sickly, slight, useless,
weak. Opp s t r o n g . 2 effete, feckless,
fearful adj 1 alarmed, apprehensive,
hesitant, incompetent, indecisive,
frightened, nervous, panic-stricken,
scared, terrified, timid. > a f r a id . Opp ineffectual, irresolute, inf namby-
pamby, spineless, vacillating, weedy,
FEARLESS. 2 > FEARSOME.
wimpish, inf wishy-washy. 3 feeble
fearless adj bold, brave, dauntless, excuses, flimsy, insubstantial, lame,
intrepid, resolute, stoical, unafraid, paltry, poor, tame, thin, unconvinc-
unconcerned, undaunted, valiant, ing.
valorous. > c o u r a g e o u s . Opp f e a r f u l .
feed vb 1 cater for, give food to, nour-
fearsome adj appalling, aweinspir-
ish, nurture, provender, provide for,
ing, awesome, daunting, dreadful, provision, strengthen, suckle, sup-
fearful, frightful, intimidating, ter- port, sustain, inf wine and dine.
rible, terrifying. > f r ig h t e n in g .
2 dine, eat, fare, graze, pasture, feed
feasible adj 1 achievable, attainable, on > e a t .
easy, possible, practicable, practical,
realizable, viable, workable. Opp im - feel vb 1 caress, finger, fondle,
pr a c t ic a l . 2 a feasible scenario, credible, handle, hold, manipulate, maul, inf
likely, plausible, reasonable. Opp paw, pet, stroke, touch. 2 feel your
IMPLAUSIBLE. way. explore, fumble, grope. 3 feel the
cold, be aware of, be conscious of,
feast n banquet, si blow-out, dinner, detect, discern, experience, know,
inf spread. > me a l . • vb dine, gorge, notice, perceive, sense, suffer,
gormandize, inf wine and dine. > e a t . undergo. 4 It feels cold, appear, give a
feat n accomplishment, achievement, feeling of, seem. 5 feel something’s true.
act, action, attainment, deed, exploit, believe, consider, deem, guess, inf
performance. have a feeling, inf have a hunch,
feather n plume, quill, feathers intuit, judge, think.
down, plumage. feeling n 1 sensation, sense of touch,
feathery adj downy, fluffy, light, sensitivity. 2 ardour, emotion, fer-
wispy. vour, passion, sentiment, warmth.
feature n 1 aspect, attribute, char- 3 religious feelings, attitude, belief,
acteristic, circumstance, detail, facet, consciousness, guess, hunch, idea,
hall mark, idiosyncrasy, mark, impression, instinct, intuition, no-
peculiarity, point, property, quality, tion, opinion, perception, thought,
trait. 2 newspaper feature, article, view. 4 a feeling for music, fondness,
column, item, piece, report, story. responsiveness, sensibility, sym-
• vb 1 emphasize, focus on, give pathy, understanding. 5 [mJ] a party
prominence to, highlight, inf play up, feeling, atmosphere, aura, mood,
present, promote, show up, inf spot- tone, inf vibrations.
light, inf star, stress. 2 feature in a fell vb bring down, chop down, cut
film, act, appear, figure, participate, down, flatten, inf floor, knock down,
perform, play a role, star, take a part, mow down, prostrate. > k il l .
features > f a c e .
female adj > f e m in in e . Opp ma l e . • n
fee n bill, charge, cost, dues, emolu- □ aunt, old use damsel, daughter, old
ment, fare, payment, price, remu- use debutante, fiance, girl, girlfriend,
neration, subscription, sum, tariff, grandmother, lady, inf lass, lesbian, old
terms, toll, wage. use maid, old use maiden, old use mis-
feeble adj 1 ailing, debilitated, tress, mother, niece, sister, spinster, old
decrepit, delicate, enfeebled, ex- use or sexist wench, wife, woman.
hausted, faint, fragile, frail, helpless, □ bitch, cow, doe, ewe, hen, lioness, mare,
ill, impotent, inadequate, ineffective, nanny-goat, sow, tigress, vixen.
 151
fickle
feminine adj derog of men effeminate, sion, sparkle, spirit, vehemence,
female, derog girlish, ladylike, wo- vigour, warmth, zeal.
manly. Opp MASCULINE. fester vb become infected, become
fen n bog, lowland, marsh, morass, inflamed, become poisoned, decay,
quagmire, slough, swamp. discharge, gather, go bad, go septic,
fence n barricade, barrier, fencing, mortify, ooze, putrefy, rot, run, sup-
hedge, hurdle, obstacle, paling, purate, ulcerate.
palisade, railing, rampart, stockade, festival n anniversaiy, carnival, cel-
wall, wire. • vb 1 bound, circum- ebration, commemoration, fair,
scribe, confine, coop up, encircle, feast, fete, fiesta, gala, holiday, jam-
enclose, hedge in, immure, pen, boree, jubilee. t> FEsnvrrY.
restrict, surround, wall in. 2 > f ig h t . festive adj celebratory, cheerful,
fend vb fend for yourself care for cheery, convivial, gay, gleeful, jolly,
yourself, do for yourself, inf get jovial, joyful, joyous, light-hearted,
along, inf get by, look after yourself, merry, uproarious. > h a ppy .
inf scrape along, support yourself, festivity n celebration, conviviality,
survive, fend off > r e pe l . entertainment, feasting, festive occa-
ferment n > c o mm o t io n . • vb 1 boil, sion, inf jollification, jollity, jubila-
bubble, effervesce, inf fizz, foam, tion, merlymaking, merriment,
froth, rise, seethe, work. 2 agitate, mirth, rejoicing, reveliy, revels. >
excite, foment, incite, instigate, pro- PARTY.
voke, rouse, stir up. fetch vb 1 bear, bring, call for, cany,
ferocious adj bestial, bloodthirsty, collect, convey, get, import, obtain,
brutal, cruel, feral, fiendish, fierce, pick up, retrieve, transfer, transport.
harsh, inhuman, merciless, murder- 2 fetch a good price, be bought for,
ous, pitiless, sadistic, savage, vicious, bring in, earn, go for, make, produce,
wild. Opp GENTLE. raise, realize, sell for. fetching t>
ferry n > v e s s e l . • vb carry, export, ATTRACTIVE.
fetch, import, shift, ship, shuttle, feud n animosity, antagonism, inf
take across, taxi, transport. > c o n v e y . bad blood, conflict, dispute, enmity,
fertile adj abundant, fecund, fertil- grudge, hostility, rivalry, strife,
ized, flourishing, fruitful, lush, lux- vendetta. > q u a r r e l .
uriant, productive, prolific, rich, fever n delirium, feverishness, high
teeming, well-manured. Opp s t e r il e . temperature.
fertilize vb 1 impregnate, insem- feverish adj 1 burning, febrile,
inate, pollinate. 2 cultivate, dress, fevered, flushed, hot, inflamed, trem-
enrich, feed, make fertile, manure, bling. Opp c o o l . 2 feverish activity.
mulch, nourish, top-dress. agitated, excited, frantic, frenetic,
fertilizer n compost, dressing, dung, frenzied, hectic, hurried, impatient,
manure, mulch, nutrient. passionate, restless.
fervent adj animated, ardent, avid, few adj inf few and far between,
burning, committed, devout, eager, hardly any, inadequate, infrequent,
earnest, emotional, enthusiastic, rare, scarce, sparse, sporadic, inf
excited, fanatical, fervid, fiery, fren- thin on the ground, uncommon. Opp
zied, heated, impassioned, intense, MANY.
keen, passionate, rapturous, spirited, fibre n 1 filament, hair, strand,
vehement, vigorous, warm, whole- thread. 2 moral fibre, backbone, char-
hearted, zealous. Opp c o o l . acter, determination, spirit, tenacity,
fervour n ardour, eagerness, energy, toughness. t> c o u r a g e .
enthusiasm, excitement, fervency, fickle adj capricious, changeable,
fire, heat, intensity, keenness, pas- changing, disloyal, erratic, faithless,
fiction
flighty, inconsistent, inconstant, heated, intense, keen, passionate,
mercurial, mutable, treacherous, relentless, strong, unrelenting. Opp
undependable, unfaithful, unpredict- GENTLE.
able, unreliable, unstable, unsteady, fiery adj i ablaze, afire, aflame,
inf up and down, vacillating, variable, aglow, blazing, burning, fierce, flam-
volatile. Opp c o n s t a n t . ing, glowing, heated, hot, incandes-
fiction n concoction, deception, fab- cent, raging, red, red-hot. 2 a fiery
rication, fantasy, figment of the temper, angry, ardent, choleric,
imagination, flight of fancy, inven- excitable, fervent, furious, hot-
tion, lies, story-telling, inf tall story. headed, intense, irascible, irritable,
> WRITING. Opp FACT. livid, mad, passionate, touchy, viol-
fictional adj fabulous, fanciful, ent. Opp COOL.
imaginary, invented, legendary, fight n action, affray, attack, battle,
made-up, make-believe, mythical, bout, brawl, inf brush, inf bust-up,
story-book. Opp f a c t u a l . clash, combat, competition, conflict,
fictitious adj apocryphal, assumed, confrontation, contest, counter-
fabricated, deceitful, fraudulent, attack, dispute, dogfight, duel, inf
imagined, invented, made-up, spuri- dustup, encounter, engagement,
ous, Unreal, untrue. > f a l s e . Opp feud, old use fisticuffs, fracas, fray, inf
GENUINE. free-for-all, hostilities, joust, match,
fiddle vb interfere, meddle, play melee, inf punch-up, raid, riot,
about, tamper. > f id g e t , fiddling > rivalry, row, scramble, scrap, scrim-
TRIVIAL. mage, scuffle, inf set-to, skirmish,
squabble, strife, struggle, tussle, war,
fidget vb be restless, injfiddle about, wrangle. > q u a r r e l . • vb 1 attack,
fret, frisk about, fuss, jerk about, inf battle, box, brawl, inf brush, clash,
jiggle, inf mess about, move rest- compete, conflict, contend, do bat-
lessly, inf play about, shuffle, squirm, tle, duel, engage, exchange blows,
twitch, worry, wriggle about. fence, feud, grapple, have a fight,
fidgety adj agitated, frisky, impa- joust, quarrel, row, scrap, scuffle,
tient, jittery, jumpy, nervous, on skirmish, spar, squabble, stand up
edge, restive, restless, inf twitchy, (to), strive, struggle, old use tilt, tus-
uneasy. Opp c a l m . sle, wage war, wrestle. 2 fight a de-
field n 1 arable land, clearing, enclo- cision. campaign against, contest,
sure, grassland, poet glebe, green, old defy, oppose, protest against, resist,
use mead, meadow, paddock, pasture. take a stand against.
2 a games field, arena, ground, pitch, fighter n aggressor, antagonist, at-
playing-field, recreation ground, tacker, belligerent, campaigner, com-
stadium. 3 field of activity, area, inf batant, contender, contestant, defender.
department, domain, province, □ archer, boxer, inf brawler, champion,
sphere, subject, territory. duellist, freedom fighter, gladiator, guer-
fiend n 1 demon, devil, evil spirit, rilla, gunman, knight, marine, marks-
goblin, hobgoblin, imp, Satan, spirit. man, mercenary, partisan, prize-fighter,
2 > FANATIC. pugilist, sniper, swordsman, terrorist,
fierce adj 1 angry, barbaric, bar- warrior, wrestler. > s o l d ie r .
barous, bloodthirsty, bloody, brutal, figure n i amount, cipher, digit, inte-
cold-blooded, cruel, dangerous, fear- ger, number, numeral, sum, symbol,
some, ferocious, fiendish, fiery, value. 2 diagram, drawing, graph,
homicidal, inhuman, merciless, mur- illustration, outline, picture, plate,
derous, pitiless, ruthless, sadistic, representation. 3 plump figure, body,
savage, untamed, vicious, violent, build, form, outline, physique, shape,
wild. 2 fierce opposition, active, aggres- silhouette. 4 bronze figure. > s c u l p -
sive, competitive, eager, furious, t u r e . 5 well-known figure. > pe r s o n . • vb
153 finish
t> FEATURE, figure out t> CALCULATE, minal, terminating, ultimate. Opp
UNDERSTAND, figures t> STATISTICS. INITIAL.
file n 1 binder, box-file, case, finalize vb clinch, complete, con-
cover, documentation, document- clude, settle, inf sew up, inf wrap up.
case, dossier, folder, portfolio, ring- finance n accounting, banking, busi-
binder. 2 single file, column, line, ness, commerce, economics, invest-
procession, queue, rank, row, ment, stocks and shares. • vb back,
stream, string, train. • vb 1 arrange, fund, guarantee, invest in, pay for,
categorize, classify, enter, pigeon- provide money for, subsidize, sup-
hole, organize, put away, record, reg- port, underwrite, finances assets,
ister, store, systematize. 2 file through bank account, budget, capital, cash,
a door, march, parade, proceed in a funds, holdings, income, money,
line, stream, troop. resources, wealth, inf the where-
fill vb 1 be full of, block, inf bung up, withal.
caulk, clog, close up, cram, crowd, financial adj economic, fiscal, mon-
flood, inflate, jam, load, obstruct, etary, pecuniary.
pack, plug, refill, replenish, seal,
find vb 1 acquire, arrive at, become
stock up, stop up, inf stuff, inf top
up. Opp e mpt y . 2 fill a need, answer, aware of, inf bump into, chance
fulfil, furnish, meet, provide, satisfy, upon, come across, come upon,
supply. 3 fill a post, execute, hold, detect, diagnose, dig out, dig up, dis-
occupy, take over, take up. fill out t> cover, encounter, espy, expose, inf
SWELL. ferret out, happen on, hit on, identi-
fy, learn, light on, locate, meet, note,
filling n contents, inf innards, insides, notice, observe, inf put your finger
padding, stuffing, wadding. on, reach, recognize, reveal, spot,
film n 1 coat, coating, cover, covering, stumble on, uncover, unearth. 2 find
haze, layer, membrane, mist, over- lost property, get back, recover, redis-
lay, screen, sheet, skin, slick, tissue, cover, regain, repossess, retrieve,
veil. 2 cartoon, old use flick, motion trace, track down. 3 found me a job.
picture, movie, picture, video, video- give, pass on, procure, provide, sup-
tape. ply. Opp LOSE.
finding n conclusion, decision,
filter n colander, gauze, membrane,
mesh, riddle, screen, sieve, strainer. decree, judgement, pronouncement,
• vb clarify, filtrate, percolate, purify, verdict.
refine, screen, sieve, sift, strain. fine adj 1 admirable, beautiful,
choice, classic, commendable, excel-
filth n decay, dirt, effluent, garbage,
lent, first-class, handsome, noble,
grime, inf gunge, impurity, muck,
select, superior, worthy. t> g o o d .
mud, ordure, pollution, putrescence, 2 fine workmanship, consummate,
refuse, rubbish, scum, sewage, slime, craftsmanlike, meticulous, skilful,
sludge, trash. t> e x c r e t a . skilled. 3 fine sand, minute, powdery,
filthy adj 1 begrimed, caked, defiled, soft. 4 fine fabric, dainty, delicate,
dirty, disgusting, dusty, foul, grimy, exquisite, flimsy, fragile, silky. 5 a
grubby, impure, messy, mucky, fine point, acute, keen, narrow, sharp,
muddy, nasty, polluted, scummy, slender, slim, thin. 6 a fine distinction.
slimy, smelly, soiled, sooty, sordid, fine-drawn, discriminating, hair-
squalid, stinking, tainted, uncleaned, splitting, nice, precise, subtle. 7 fine
unkempt, unwashed, vile. 2 > weather, bright, clear, cloudless,
OBSCENE. Opp CLEAN. diy, fair, nice, pleasant, sunny. • n
charge, forfeit, penalty.
final adj clinching, closing, conclud-
ing, conclusive, decisive, dying, end, finish n 1 cessation, close, comple-
eventual, finishing, last, settled, ter- tion, conclusion, culmination, end,
finite 154

ending, finale, resolution, result, ter- able, unwavering. 4 a firm price.

mination. 2 finish on furniture, appear- agreed, settled, unchangeable. 5 firm
ance, completeness, gloss, lustre, friends, constant, dependable, de-
patina, perfection, polish, shine, voted, faithful, loyal, reliable. • n
smoothness, surface, texture. • vb business, company, concern, corpor-
1 accomplish, achieve, break off, ation, establishment, organization,
bring to an end, cease, clinch, com- partnership.
plete, conclude, discontinue, end,
first adj 1 cardinal, chief, dominant,
finalize, fulfil, halt, pack up, perfect,
foremost, head, highest, key, lead-
phase out, reach the end, round
off, say goodbye, sign off, stop, take ing, main, outstanding, paramount,
your leave, terminate, inf wind up, predominant, primary, prime, prin-
inf wrap up. 2 consume, drink up, cipal, top, uppermost. 2 first steps.
eat up, empty, exhaust, expend, get basic, elementary, fundamental,
through, inf polish off, inf say good- initial, introductory, preliminary,
bye to, use up. finish off t> k il l . rudimentary. 3 first inhabitants, abo-
riginal, archetypal, earliest, eldest,
finite adj bounded, calculable, con- embryonic, oldest, original, primeval,
trolled, countable, definable, defined, first-class, first-rate > e x c e l l e n t .
determinate, fixed, known, limited,
measurable, numbered, rationed, fish n □ brill, brisling, carp, catfish, chub,
restricted. Opp in f in it e . cod, coelacanth, conger, cuttlefish, dab,
fire n 1 blaze, burning, combustion, dace, eel, flounder, goldfish, grayling,
conflagration, flames, holocaust, in- gudgeon, haddock, hake, halibut, her-
ferno, pyre. 2 fireplace, grate, hearth. ring, jellyfish, lamprey, ling, mackerel,
□ boiler, bonfire, brazier, convector, minnow, mullet, perch, pike, pilchard,
electric fire, forge, furnace, gas fire, piranha, plaice, roach, salmon, sardine,
immersion-heater, incinerator, kiln, oven, sawfish, shark, skate, sole, sprat, squid,
radiator, stove. 3 fire in your veins. t> starfish, stickleback, sturgeon, swordfish,
pa s s io n . • vb 1 bake, burn, heat, inf tiddler, trout, tuna, turbot, white-
ignite, kindle, light, put a light to, set bait, whiting. • vb angle, go fishing,
alight, set fire to, spark off. 2 ani- trawl.
mate, awaken, enkindle, enliven, fisher n angler, fisherman, trawler-
excite, incite, inflame, inspire, mo- man.
tivate, rouse, stimulate, stir. 3 fire a
gun or missile, catapult, detonate, dis- fit adj 1 adapted, adequate, applic-
charge, explode, launch, let off, pro- able, apposite, appropriate, apro-
pel, set off, shoot, trigger off. 4 fire a pos, apt, becoming, befitting, correct,
worker, dismiss, make redundant, decent, equipped, fitting, good
sack, throw out. fire at t> b o mb a r d . enough, prQper, right, satisfactory,
hang fire > DELAY. seemly, sound, suitable, suited,
fireproof adj flameproof, incom- timely. 2 able, capable, competent, in
bustible, non-flammable. Opp in f l a m - good form, on form, prepared, ready,
ma b l e . strong, well enough. t> h e a l t h y . Opp
u n f it . • n attack, bout, convulsion,
fire-raiser n arsonist, pyromaniac, eruption, explosion, outbreak, out-
firm adj 1 compact, compressed, con- burst, paroxysm, seizure, spasm,
gealed, dense, hard, inelastic, inflex- spell. • vb 1 accord with, become, be
ible, rigid, set, solid, stable, stiff, fitting for, conform with, correspond
unyielding. 2 firm on the rocks, an- to, correspond with, go with, har-
chored, embedded, fast, fastened, monize with, suit. 2 fit things into
fixed, immovable, secure, steady, place, arrange, assemble, build, con-
tight. 3 firm convictions, adamant, struct, dovetail, install, interlock,
decided, determined, dogged, obstin- join, match, position, put in place,
ate, persistent, resolute, unshake- put together, fit out, fit up t> e q u ip .
 155
fleeting
fix n inf catch-22, comer, difficulty, flatten vb 1 compress, even out, iron
dilemma, inf hole, inf jam, mess, inf out, level out, press, roll, smooth,
pickle, plight, predicament, problem, straighten. 2 crush, demolish, dev-
quandary. • vb 1 attach, bind, con- astate, level, raze, run over, squash,
nect, embed, implant, install, join, trample. > d e s t r o y . 3 flatten an oppon-
link, make firm, plant, position, ent. fell, floor, knock down, prostrate.
secure, stabilize, stick. t> f a s t e n . 2 fix> DEFEAT.
a price, agree, appoint, arrange, arrive flatter vb be flattering to, inf butter
at, conclude, confirm, decide, define, up, compliment, court, curry favour
establish, finalize, name, ordain, set, with, fawn on, humour, inf play up
settle, sort out, specify. 3 fix a broken to, praise, si suck up to, inf toady to.
window, correct, make good, mend, Opp in s u l t , flattering t> c o mpl ime n t -
put right, rectify, remedy, repair. a r y , OBSEQUIOUS.
fixture n date, engagement, event, flatterer n inf crawler, inf creep,
game, match, meeting. groveller, lackey, sycophant, time-
fizz vb bubble, effervesce, fizzle, foam, server, inf toady, inf yes-man.
froth, hiss, sizzle, sparkle, sputter. flattery n adulation, blandishments,
inf blarney, inf boot-licking, cajolery,
fizzy adj bubbly, effervescent, foam-
fawning, inf flannel, insincerity, ob-
ing, sparkling. sequiousness, servility, inf soft soap,
flag n banner, bunting, colours, sycophancy, unctuousness.
ensign, jack, pennant, pennon, stand- flavour n 1 savour, taste. > f l a v o u r -
ard, streamer. • vb 1> s ig n a l . 2 enthu- in g . 2 air, ambience, atmosphere,
siasm flagged. > d e c l in e . aura, character, characteristic,
flake n bit, chip, leaf, scale, scurf, feel, feeling, property, quality, spirit,
shaving, slice, sliver, splinter, wafer. stamp, style. • vb add flavour to, add
taste to, season, spice.
flame n blaze, light, tongue. > f ir e . •
flavouring n additive, essence,
vb > FLARE.
extract, seasoning.
flap vb beat, flutter, oscillate, slap, flaw n break, defect, error, fallacy,
sway, swing, thrash about, thresh fault, imperfection, inaccuracy, loop-
about, wag, waggle, wave about. hole, mistake, shortcoming, slip,
flare vb 1 blaze, brighten, burst out, split, weakness. > b l e mis h , flawed t>
erupt, flame, shine. > b u r n . 2 > IMPERFECT.
WIDEN. flawless adj accurate, clean, fault-
flash vb coruscate, dazzle, flicker, less, immaculate, mint, pristine,
glare, glint, glitter, light up, reflect, sound, spotless, undamaged, un-
scintillate, shine, spark, sparkle, marked. t> PERFECT. Opp IMPERFECT.
twinkle. > b u r n . flee vb abscond, inf beat a retreat, si
beat it, bolt, clear off, cut and run,
flat adj 1 calm, even, horizontal,
decamp, disappear, escape, fly, get
level, smooth, unbroken, unruffled. away, hurry off, inf make a run for
2 outstretched, prone, prostrate,
it, make off, retreat, run away, si
recumbent, spread-eagled, spread scarper, take flight, inf take to your
out, supine. 3 aflat voice, bland, bor- heels, vanish, withdraw.
ing, dead, dry, dull, featureless,
insipid, lacklustre, lifeless, monoton- fleet n armada, convoy, flotilla, navy,
ous, spiritless, stale, tedious, tired, squadron, task force.
unexciting, uninteresting, unmodu- fleeting adj brief, ephemeral, eva-
lated, unvaiying. 4 a flat tyre, blown nescent, ftrgitive, impermanent,
out, burst, deflated, punctured. • n momentary, mutable, passing, short,
apartment, bedsitter, flatlet, maison- short-lived, temporary, transient,
ette, penthouse, rooms, suite. transitory. Opp pe r ma n e n t .
flesh 156

flesh n carrion, fat, meat, muscle, flirtatious adj amorous, coquettish,

tissue. flirty, derog philandering, playful,
derog promiscuous, teasing.
flex n cable, cord, extension, lead,
wire. • vb > bend .
float vb 1 be poised, be suspended,
bob, drift, glide, hang, hover, sail,
flexible adj 1 bendable, inf bendy, swim, waft. 2 float a ship, launch. Opp
elastic, flexile, floppy, giving, limp, SINK.
lithe, plastic, pliable, pliant, rubbery, flock n assembly, congregation,
soft, springy, stretchy, supple, whippy, crowd, drove, gathering, herd, horde,
willowy, yielding. 2 adjustable, multitude, swarm. > g r o u p . • vb >
alterable, fluid, mutable, open, GATHER.
provisional, variable. 3 a flexible per-
son. accommodating, adaptable, flog vb beat, birch, cane, chastise, fla-
amenable, compliant, conformable, gellate, flay, lash, scourge, thrash,
co-operative, docile, easygoing, mal- whip. t> HIT.
leable, open-minded, responsive, flood n 1 cataract, deluge, downpour,
tractable, willing. Opp r ig id . flash-flood, inundation, overflow,
rush, spate, stream, tidal wave, tide,
flicker vb blink, flap, flutter, glim-
torrent. 2 abundance, excess, glut,
mer, gutter, quiver, shake, shimmer, plethora, quantity, superfluity, sur-
sparkle, tremble, twinkle, vibrate, feit, surge. • vb cover, deluge, drown,
waver.
engulf, fill up, immerse, inundate,
flight n 1 journey, trajectory. 2 > overflow, overwhelm, saturate, sink,
ESCAPE. submerge, swamp.
flimsy adj 1 breakable, brittle, delic- floor n 1 floorboards, flooring.
ate, fine, fragile, frail, insubstantial, 2 deck, level, storey, tier.
light, loose, slight, thin, weak. 2 a flop vb 1 collapse, dangle, droop,
flimsy building, decrepit, dilapidated, drop, fall, flag, flap about, hang
gimcrack, jerry-built, makeshift, rick- down, sag, slump, topple, tumble,
ety, shaky, tottering, wobbly. 3 a wilt. 2 t> FAIL.
flimsy argument, feeble, implausible, floppy adj dangling, droopy, flabby,
inadequate, superficial, trivial, unbe- hanging, loose, limp, pliable, soft. >
lievable, unconvincing, unsatisfact- FLEXIBLE. Opp RIGID.
ory. Opp STRONG.
flounder vb 1 blunder, flail, fumble,
flinch vb blench, cower, cringe, grope, move clumsily, plunge about,
dodge, draw back, duck, falter, jerk stagger, struggle, stumble, tumble,
away, jump, quail, quake, recoil, wallow. 2 falter, get confused, make
shrink back, shy away, start, swerve, mistakes, talk aimlessly.
wince, flinch from > e v a d e . flourish n > g e s t u r e . • vb 1 be fruit-
fling vb bowl, inf bung, cast, inf ful, be successful, bloom, blossom,
chuck, heave, hurl, launch, lob, pelt, boom, burgeon, develop, do well,
pitch, propel, send, inf shy, inf sling, flower, grow, increase, inf perk up,
throw, toss. progress, prosper, strengthen, suc-
ceed, thrive. 2 flourish an umbrella.
flippant adj cheeky, facetious, facile, brandish, flaunt, gesture with, shake,
inf flip, frivolous, light-hearted, shal- swing, twirl, wag, wave, wield.
low, superficial, thoughtless, unse-
rious. Opp s e r io u s . flow n cascade, course, current, drift,
ebb, effusion, flood, gush, outpour-
flirt n female coquette, male philan- ing, spate, spurt, stream, tide, trickle.
derer, inf tease. • vb si chat someone • vb bleed, cascade, course, dribble,
up, lead someone on, make love, drift, drip, ebb, flood, flush, glide,
philander, toy with someone’s affec- gush, issue, leak, move in a stream,
tions. ooze, overflow, pour, purl, ripple,
 157 fold
roll, run, seep, spill, spring, spurt, out, wash out. 3 flush from a hiding-
squirt, stream, swirl, trickle, well, place. chase out, drive out, expel,
well up. send up.
flower n 1 bloom, blossom, bud, fluster vb agitate, bewilder, bother,
floret, petal. □ begonia, bluebell, but- distract, flurry, perplex, put off, put
tercup, campanula, campion, candytuft, out, inf rattle, inf throw, upset. t> c o n -
carnation, catkin, celandine, chrysan- f u se.
themum, coltsfoot, columbine, cornflower, flutter vb bat (eyelid), flap, flicker, flit,
cowslip, crocus, crowfoot, cyclamen, fluctuate, move agitatedly, oscillate,
daffodil, dahlia, daisy, dandelion, forget- palpitate, quiver, shake, tremble,
me-not, foxglove, freesia, geranium, glad- twitch, vacillate, vibrate, wave.
iolus, gypsophila, harebell, hollyhock,
hyacinth, iris, jonquil, kingcup, lilac, lily, fly vb 1 ascend, flit, glide, hover, rise,
lupin, marguerite, marigold, montbretia, sail, soar, swoop, take flight, take
nasturtium, orchid, pansy, pelargonium, wing. 2 fly a plane, aviate, pilot, take
peony, periwinkle, petunia, phlox, pink, off in. 3 fly a flag, display, flap, flutter,
polyanthus, poppy, primrose, rhododen- hang up, hoist, raise, show, wave.
dron, rose, saxifrage, scabious, scarlet 4 fly from danger, flee, huriy, move
pimpernel, snowdrop, speedwell, sun- quickly, run. t> e s c a pe , fly at t> a t t a c k .
flower, tulip, violet, wallflower, water- fly in the face of t> d is r e g a r d .
lily. • vb bloom, blossom, poet blow, flying n aeronautics, air-travel, avi-
bud, burgeon, come out, have ation, flight, infjetting.
flowers, open out, unfold. > f l o u r is h . foam n 1 bubbles, effervescence,
bunch of flowers arrangement, bou- froth, head (on beer), lather, scum,
quet, corsage, garland, posy, spray, spume, suds. 2 sponge. • vb boil, bub-
wreath. ble, effervesce, fizz, froth, lather,
fluctuate vb alternate, be unsteady, make foam.
change, go up and down, oscillate, focus n 1 clarity, correct adjustment,
seesaw, shift, swing, vacillate, vary, sharpness. 2 centre, core, focal point,
waver. heart, hub, pivot, target. • vb aim,
fluent adj articulate, effortless, elo- centre, concentrate, direct attention,
quent, expressive, derog facile, felicit- fix attention, home in, spotlight.
ous, flowing, derog glib, natural, fog n bad visibility, cloud, haze,
polished, ready, smooth, voluble, miasma, mist, smog, vapour.
unhesitating. Opp h e s it a n t .
foggy adj blurred, blurry, clouded,
fluff n down, dust, feathers, floss, cloudy, dim, hazy, indistinct, misty,
fuzz, thistledown. murky, obscure. Opp c l e a r .
fluffy adj downy, feathery, fibrous, foil vb baffle, block, check, circum-
fleecy, furry, fuzzy, hairy, light, silky, vent, frustrate, halt, hamper, hinder,
soft, velvety, wispy, woolly. obstruct, outwit, prevent, stop,
fluid adj 1 aqueous, flowing, gaseous, thwart. t> DEFEAT.
liquefied, liquid, melted, molten, foist vb inf fob off, get rid of, impose,
running, inf runny, sloppy, watery. offload, palm off.
Opp s o l id . 2 a fluid situation, ad-
fold n 1 bend, corrugation, crease,
justable, alterable, changing, flexible,
crinkle, furrow, gather, hollow, knife-
mutable, open, variable, undefined. •
edge, line, pleat, pucker, wrinkle.
n gas, liquid, liquor, plasma, vapour,
2 fold for sheep. t> e n c l o s u r e . • vb
fluke n accident, chance, serendip- 1 bend, crease, crimp, crinkle, double
ity, stroke of good luck, twist of fate, over, jack-knife, overlap, pleat, ply,
flush vb 1 blush, colour, glow, go red, pucker, tuck in, turn over. 2 close,
redden. 2 flush a lavatory, clean out, collapse, let down, put down, shut.
cleanse, flood, inf pull the plug, rinse 3 fold in your arms, clasp, clip,
folk 158

embrace, enclose, enfold, entwine, mutt, ninny, nit, nitwit, simpleton,

envelop, hold, hug, wrap. 4 business sucker, twerp, wally. > id io t . 2 clown,
folded. > f a il . comedian, comic, coxcomb, enter-
folk n clan, nation, people, the popu-
tainer, jester. • vb inf bamboozle,
lation, the public, race, society, tribe. bluff, cheat, inf con, cozen, deceive,
defraud, delude, dupe, fleece, gull,
follow vb 1 accompany, chase, inf have on, hoax, hoodwink, inf kid,
come after, dog, escort, go after, mislead, inf string along, swindle,
hound, hunt, keep pace with, pur- take in, tease, trick, fool about
sue, replace, shadow, stalk, succeed, > MISBEHAVE.
supersede, supplant, inf tag along
with, tail, take the place of, track, foolish adj absurd, asinine, brain-
trail. 2 follow a path, keep to, trace. less, childish, crazy, daft, inf dopey,
3 follow rules, abide by, adhere to, inf dotty, fatuous, feather-brained,
attend to, comply with, conform to, feeble-minded, old use fond, frivo-
heed, honour, obey, observe, pay lous, inf half-baked, hare-brained,
attention to, stick to, submit to, take idiotic, illogical, immature, inane,
notice of. 4 follow my example, adopt, infantile, irrational, inf jokey,
be guided by, conform to, copy, imit- laughable, light-hearted, ludicrous,
ate, mimic, mirror. 5 follow an argu- mad, meaningless, mindless, mis-
ment. appreciate, comprehend, grasp, guided, naive, nonsensical, playful,
keep up with, take in, understand. pointless, preposterous, ridiculous,
6 follow football, admire, be a fan of, scatter-brained, inf scatty, sense-
keep abreast of, know about, take an less, shallow, silly, simple, simple-
interest in, support. 7 It doesn’t fol- minded, simplistic, inf soppy, stupid,
low. be inevitable, be logical, come thoughtless, unintelligent, unrea-
about, ensue, happen, have the con- sonable, unsound, unwise, witless.
sequence, mean, result, following > Opp WISE.
SUBSEQUENT. foot n 1 claw, hoof, paw, trotter. 2 >
folly n foolishness, insanity, lunacy, BASE.
madness. > s t u pid it y . footprint n footmark, spoor, track,
foment vb arouse, incite, instigate, forbid vb ban, bar, debar, deny, deter,
kindle, provoke, rouse, stir up. > disallow, exclude, interdict, make
STIMULATE. illegal, outlaw, preclude, prevent,
fond adj 1 adoring, affectionate, car- prohibit, proscribe, refuse, rule out,
ing, loving, tender, warm. 2 a fond say no to, stop, veto. Opp a l l o w .
hope. > f o o u s h . be fond of > l o v e . forbidden adj 1 against the law,
fondle vb caress, cuddle, handle, pat, taboo, unlawful, wrong. 2 a forbid-
pet, snuggle, squeeze, touch. den area, closed, out of bounds,
food n aliment, old use bread, old use restricted, secret.
comestibles, cooking, cuisine, delic- forbidding adj gloomy, grim,
acies, diet, inf eatables, inf eats, fare, menacing, ominous, stem, threaten-
feed, fodder, foodstuff, forage, inf ing, uninviting, unwelcoming. >
grub, inf junk food, old use meat, UNFRIENDLY. Opp FRIENDLY.
si nosh, nourishment, nutriments, force n 1 aggression, inf armtwist-
provender, provisions, rations, re- ing, coercion, compulsion, con-
cipe, refreshments, sustenance, swill, straint, drive, duress, effort, might,
old use tuck, old use viands, old use power, pressure, strength, vehe-
victuals. > me a l . mence, vigour, violence. 2 effect,
fool n 1 [most synonyms inf ass, block- energy, impact, intensity, momen-
head, booby, buffoon, dim-wit, dope, tum, shock. 3 a military force, army,
dunce, dunderhead, dupe, fat-head, body, group, troops. 4 force of an
half-wit, ignoramus, mug, muggins, argument, cogency, effectiveness, per-
159 forgiveness
suasiveness, rightness, thrust, valid- foretell vb augur, old use bode, fore-
ity, weight. • vb 1 inf bulldoze, bode, foreshadow, forewarn, give a
coerce, compel, constrain, drive, foretaste of, herald, portend, predict,
impel, impose on, make, oblige, presage, prognosticate, prophesy, sig-
order, press-gang, pressurize. 2 force nify. > f o r e s e e .
a door, break open, burst open, prise forethought n anticipation, cau-
open, smash, use force on, wrench. tion, far-sightedness, foresight, look-
3 force something on someone, impose, ing ahead, perspicacity, planning,
inflict. preparation, prudence, readiness,
foreboding n anxiety, apprehension, vision.
dread, fear, feeling, foreshadowing, forewarning n advance warning,
forewarning, intimation, intuition, auguiy, omen, premonition, inf tip-
misgiving, omen, portent, premoni- off. > FORETASTE.
tion, presentiment, suspicion, warn-
ing, worry. forfeit n confiscation, damages, fee,
fine, penalty, sequestration. • vb
forecast n augury, expectation, out-
abandon, give up, let go, lose, pay
look, prediction, prognosis, pro- up, relinquish, renounce, surrender,
gnostication, projection, prophecy. •
Vb > FORESEE. forge n furnace, smithy, workshop. •
vb 1 beat into shape, cast, construct,
forefront n avant-garde, front, lead,
hammer out, manufacture, mould,
vanguard. shape, work. 2 coin, copy, counter-
foreign adj 1 distant, exotic, far- feit, fake, falsify, imitate, make il-
away, outlandish, remote, strange, legally, reproduce, forge ahead >
unfamiliar, unknown. 2 alien, ex- ADVANCE.
ternal, immigrant, imported, incom- forgery n copy, counterfeit, inf dud,
ing, international, outside, overseas, fake, fraud, imitation, inf phoney,
visiting. 3 foreign ideas, extraneous, replica, reproduction.
odd, uncharacteristic, unnatural,
untypical, unusual, unwanted. Opp forget vb 1 be forgetful, dismiss from
NATIVE. your mind, disregard, fail to remem-
ber, ignore, leave out, lose track (of),
foreigner n alien, immigrant, new-
miss out, neglect, omit, overlook,
comer, outsider, overseas visitor, skip, suffer from amnesia, unlearn.
stranger. Opp n a t iv e . 2 be without, leave behind, lose. Opp
foremost adj first, leading, main, REMEMBER.
primary, supreme. > c h ie f .
forgetful adj absent-minded, amne-
forerunner n advance messenger, siac, careless, distracted, inattentive,
harbinger, herald, precursor, prede- neglectful, negligent, oblivious, pre-
cessor. > ANCESTOR. occupied, unconscious, unmindful,
foresee vb anticipate, envisage, unreliable, vague, infwoolly-minded,
expect, forecast, picture. > f o r e t e l l . forgivable adj allowable, excusable,
foresight n anticipation, caution, justifiable, negligible, pardonable,
far-sightedness, forethought, looking petty, understandable, venial. Opp
ahead, perspicacity, planning, pre- UNFORGIVABLE.
paration, prudence, readiness, vision, forgive vb 1 absolve, acquit, clear,
forest n coppice, copse, jungle, exculpate, excuse, exonerate, in-
plantation, trees, woodland, woods. dulge, inflet off, pardon, spare. 2 for-
give a crime, condone, ignore, make
foretaste n advance warning,
allowances for, overlook, pass over.
auguiy, example, foreknowledge,
forewarning, indication, omen, pre- forgiveness n absolution, amnesty,
monition, preview, sample, speci- clemency, compassion, exculpa-
men, inf tip-off, trailer, inf try-out. tion, exoneration, grace, indulgence,
forgiving 160

leniency, mercy, pardon, reprieve, precise, reserved, specialist, stilted,

tolerance. Opp r e t r ib u t io n . technical, unemotional. 3 a formal
forgiving adj clement, compassion- agreement, binding, contractual,
ate, forbearing, generous, mag- enforceable, legal, inf signed and
nanimous, merciful, tolerant, sealed. 4 a formal design, calculated,
understanding. > k in d . Opp v e n g e f u l . geometrical, orderly, organized, regu-
lar, rigid, symmetrical. Opp in f o r ma l .
forgo vb abandon, abstain from, do
without, forswear, give up, go format n appearance, design, layout,
without, omit, pass up, relinquish, plan, shape, size, style.
renounce, sacrifice, turn down, former adj bygone, departed, ex-,
waive. last, late, old, one-time, past, previ-
forked adj branched, cleft, divergent, ous, prior, recent, the former earlier,
divided, fork-like, pronged, split, first, first-mentioned. Opp l a t t e r .
V-shaped. formidable adj awe-inspiring, awe-
forlorn adj abandoned, alone, bereft, some, challenging, daunting, diffi-
deserted, forsaken, friendless, lonely, cult, dreadful, fearful, frightening,
outcast, solitary, unloved. > s a d . intimidating, large-scale, inf mind-
form rt 1 appearance, arrangement, boggling, onerous, overwhelming,
cast,,character, configuration, de- prodigious, taxing. Opp e a s y .
sign, format, framework, genre, formula n 1 form of words, ritual,
guise, kind, manifestation, manner, rubric, spell, wording. 2 formula for
model, mould, nature, pattern, plan, success, blueprint, method, prescrip-
semblance, sort, species, structure, tion, procedure, recipe, rule, tech-
style, system, type, variety. 2 human nique, way.
form, anatomy, body, build, figure,
frame, outline, physique, shape, sil- formulate vb 1 articulate, codify,
houette. 3 your form in school, class, define, express clearly, set out in
grade, group, level, set, stream, detail, specify, systematize. 2 con-
tutor-group. 4 good form, behaviour, coct, create, devise, evolve, form,
convention, custom, etiquette, fash- invent, map out, originate, plan,
ion, manners, practice. 5 an applica- work out.
tionform. document, paper. 6 in good forsake vb abandon, break off from,
form, condition, inf fettle, fitness, desert, forgo, forswear, give up, jet-
health, performance, spirits. 71> s e a t . tison, jilt, leave, quit, renounce, repu-
• vb 1 bring into existence, cast, con- diate, surrender, throw over, inf turn
stitute, construct, create, design, your back on, vacate.
establish, forge, found, give form to,
fort n camp, castle, citadel, fortifica-
make, model, mould, organize, pro-
tion, fortress, garrison, stronghold,
duce, shape. 2 appear, arise, come
tower.
into existence, develop, grow, materi-
alize, take shape. 3 form a team, act forthright adj blunt, candid, de-
as, compose, comprise, make up, cisive, direct, outspoken, plain-
serve as. 4 form a habit, acquire, cul- speaking, straightforward, unequi-
tivate, develop, get. vocal, unhesitating, uninhibited.
formal adj i aloof, ceremonial, cer- > FRANK. Opp EVASIVE.
emonious, conventional, cool, cor- fortify vb 1 buttress, defend, gar-
rect, customary, dignified, inf rison, protect, reinforce, secure
dressed-up, orthodox, inf posh, derog against attack, shore up. 2 bolster,
pretentious, proper, punctilious, rit- boost, brace, buoy up, cheer, em-
ualistic, solemn, sophisticated, bolden, encourage, hearten, invig-
stately, inf starchy, stiff, stiffnecked, orate, lift the morale of, reassure,
unbending, unfriendly. 2 formal lan- stiffen the resolve of, strengthen,
guage. academic, impersonal, official, support, sustain. Opp w e a k e n .
 161
fragment
fortitude n backbone, braveiy, cour- 2 foul crimes, abhor-
d ir t y , s me l l in g .
age, determination, endurance, firm- rent, abominable, atrocious, beastly,
ness, heroism, patience, resolution, cruel, evil, ignominious, monstrous,
stoicism, tenacity, valour, will-power. scandalous, shameful, vicious, vil-
> COURAGE. Opp COWARDICE. lainous, violent, wicked. 3 foul lan-
fortunate adj auspicious, blessed, guage. abusive, bawdy, blasphemous,
favourable, lucky, opportune, pro- coarse, common, crude, impolite,
pitious, prosperous, providential, improper, indecent, insulting, licen-
timely. > h a ppy . tious, offensive, rude, uncouth, vul-
fortune n 1 accident, chance, des-
gar. > o b s c e n e . 4 foul weather, foggy,
tiny, fate, fortuity, karma, kismet, rainy, rough, stormy, violent, windy.
luck, providence. 2 affluence, assets, > u n pl e a s a n t . 5 foul play, against the
estate, holdings, inheritance, means, rules, dishonest, forbidden, illegal,
inf millions, money, opulence, inf invalid, prohibited, unfair, unsports-
pile, possessions, property, prosper- manlike. Opp c l e a n , f a ir . • n infringe-
ity, riches, treasure, wealth. ment, violation. • vb > d ir t y , foul up
> MUDDLE.
fortune-teller n clairvoyant, crystal-
gazer, futurologist, oracle, palmist, found vb 1 begin, bring about, create,
prophet, seer, soothsayer, star-gazer, endow, establish, fund, inf get going,
sybil. inaugurate, initiate, institute, organ-
ize, originate, provide money for,
forward adj 1 advancing, front, raise, set up, start. 2 base, build, con-
frontal, head-first, leading, onward, struct, erect, ground, rest, set.
progressive. 2 forward planning, ad-
foundation n 1 beginning, endow-
vance, early, forward-looking, future,
well-advanced. 3 a forward child. ment, establishment, founding, in-
advanced, assertive, bold, brazen, auguration, initiation, institution,
cheeky, confident, familiar, inf fresh, organizing, setting up, starting.
impertinent, impudent, insolent, 2 base, basement, basis, bottom,
over-confident, precocious, presump- cornerstone, foot, footing, substruc-
tuous, pushful, injpushy, shameless, ture, underpinning. 3 foundations of
uninhibited. Opp b a c k w a r d . • vb 1 dis- science, basic principle, element,
essential, fundamental, origin, plur
patch, expedite, freight, post on,
rudiments.
re-address, send, send on, ship, trans-
mit, transport. 2 forward your career. founder vb abort, be wrecked, inf
accelerate, advance, encourage, facili- come to grief, fail, fall through, go
tate, foster, further, hasten, help down, miscarry, sink.
along, inf lend a helping hand to, fountain n font, fount, fountain-
promote, speed up, support. > h e l p . head, jet, source, spout, spray,
Opp HINDER. spring, well, well-spring.
foster vb 1 advance, cultivate, foyer n ante-room, entrance, en-
encourage, further, nurture, pro- trance hall, hall, lobby, reception.
mote, stimulate. > h e l p . 2 foster a fraction n division, part, portion,
child, adopt, bring up, care for, look section, subdivision.
after, maintain, nourish, nurse, raise,
fracture n break, breakage, chip,
rear, take care of.
cleavage, cleft, crack, fissure, gap,
foul adj 1 bad, contaminated, dis- opening, rent, rift, rupture, split. • vb
agreeable, disgusting, fetid, filthy, breach, break, cause a fracture in,
hateful, impure, infected, loathsome, chip, cleave, crack, rupture, separate,
nasty, nauseating, nauseous, noi- split, suffer a fracture in.
some, obnoxious, offensive, polluted,
putrid, repellent, repugnant, repuls- fragile adj > f r a il .
ive, revolting, rotten, sickening, fragment n atom, bit, chip, crumb,
smelly, squalid, stinking, vile. > plur debris, morsel, part, particle,
fragmentary 162

piece, portion, remnant, scrap, fraud n 1 cheating, chicanery, inf

shard, shiver, shred, sliver, plur con-trick, counterfeit, deceit, decep-
smithereens, snippet, speck. • vb > tion, dishonesty, double-dealing,
BREAK. duplicity, fake, forgery, hoax, impos-
ture, pretence, inf put-up job, ruse,
fragmentary adj inf bitty, bro-
sham, inf sharp practice, swindle,
ken, disconnected, disintegrated, dis- trick, trickery. 2 charlatan, cheat, inf
jointed, fragmented, imperfect, in con-man, hoaxer, humbug, impostor,
bits, incoherent, incomplete, in frag- mountebank, si phoney, inf quack,
ments, partial, scattered, scrappy,
rogue, scoundrel, swindler.
sketchy, uncoordinated. Opp c o mpl e t e .
fraudulent adj inf bent, bogus,
fragrance n aroma, bouquet, nose cheating, corrupt, counterfeit, crim-
(of wine), odour, perfume, redolence, inal, inf crooked, deceitful, devious,
scent, smell. inf dirty, dishonest, double-dealing,
fragrant adj aromatic, odorous, per- duplicitous, fake, false, forged, il-
fumed, redolent, scented, sweet- legal, lying, si phoney, sham, specious,
smelling. swindling, underhand, unscrupulous.
Opp HONEST.
frail adj breakable, brittle, dainty,
delicate, easily damaged, feeble, fray n brawl, commotion, conflict,
flimsy, fragile, insubstantial, light, disturbance, fracas, melee, quarrel,
derog puny, rickety, slight, thin, rumpus. > FIGHT.
unsound, unsteady, vulnerable, frayed adj chafed, rough-edged, tat-
weak, derog weedy. > il l . Opp s t r o n g . tered, threadbare, unravelled, worn.
frame n 1 bodywork, chassis, con- > RAGGED.
struction, scaffolding, structure. > freak adj aberrant, abnormal, anom-
f r a m e w o r k . 2 photo frame, border, alous, atypical, bizarre, exceptional,
case, casing, edge, edging, mount, extraordinaiy, freakish, odd, pecu-
mounting. • vb 1 box in, enclose, liar, queer, rare, unaccountable, un-
mount, set off, surround. 2 > c o m - foreseeable, unpredictable, unusual,
po s e . frame of mind > a t t it u d e . weird. Opp n o r ma l . • n 1 aberration,
framework n bare bones, frame,
abnormality, abortion, anomaly,
outline, plan, shell, skeleton, sup- curiosity, deformity, irregularity,
port, trellis. monster, monstrosity, mutant, odd-
ity, inf one-off, quirk, rarity, sport,
frank adj blunt, candid, direct, down- variant. 2 > f a n a t ic .
right, explicit, forthright, genuine, free adj 1 able, allowed, at leisure, at
inf heart-to-heart, honest, ingenuous,
liberty, idle, independent, loose, not
inf no-nonsense, open, outright, out-
working, uncommitted, unconfined,
spoken, plain, plain-spoken, reveal-
unconstrained, unencumbered, un-
ing, serious, sincere, straightforward,
fixed, unrestrained, untrammelled.
straight from the heart, to the point,
2 free from slavery, emancipated, free-
trustworthy, truthful, unconcealed,
born, let go, liberated, released,
undisguised, unreserved. Opp in s in -
unchained, unfettered, unshackled.
c er e.
3 a free country, autonomous, demo-
frantic adj agitated, anxious, ber- cratic, independent, self-governing,
serk, inf beside yourself, crazy, deliri- sovereign. 4 free access, accessible,
ous, demented, deranged, desperate, clear, open, permitted, unhindered,
distraught, excitable, feverish, inf unimpeded, unrestricted. 5 free gifts.
fraught, frenetic, frenzied, furious, complimentary, gratis, si on the
hectic, hurried, hysterical, mad, over- house, unasked-for, unsolicited,
wrought, panicky, rabid, uncontrol- without charge. 6 free space, available,
lable, violent, wild, worked up. Opp empty, uninhabited, unoccupied,
CALM. vacant. 7 free with money, bounteous,
 163 friendly
casual, charitable, generous, lavish, up-to-date. 2 alert, energetic, healthy,
liberal, munificent, ready, unstint- invigorated, lively, inf perky, rested,
ing, willing. • vb 1 absolve, acquit, revived, sprightly, spry, tingling, vig-
clear, deliver, discharge, disenthral, orous, vital. 3 a fresh recruit, callow,
emancipate, enfranchise, exculpate, inf green, inexperienced, naive, raw,
exonerate, let go, let off, let out, lib- unsophisticated, untried, inf wet be-
erate, loose, make free, manumit, hind the ears. 4 fresh water, clear,
pardon, parole, ransom, release, drinkable, potable, pure, refreshing,
reprieve, rescue, save, set free, spare, sweet, uncontaminated. 5 fresh air.
turn loose, unchain, unfetter, airy, circulating, cool, unpolluted,
unleash, unlock, unloose. Opp c o n - ventilated. 6 a fresh wind, bracing,
f in e . 2 free tangled ropes, clear, disen- breezy, invigorating, moderate, sharp,
gage, disentangle, extricate, loose, stiff, strongish. 7 fresh food, healthy,
unbind, undo, unknot, untie. Opp natural, newly gathered, unpro-
t a n g l e , free and easy > in f o r ma l . cessed, untreated, wholesome. 3 fresh
freedom n 1 autonomy, independ- sheets, clean, crisp, laundered, un-
ence, liberty, self-determination, touched, unused, washed-and-ironed.
self-government, sovereignty. Opp 9 fresh colours, bright, clean, glowing,
c a pt iv it y . 2 deliverance, emancipa- just painted, renewed, restored, spark-
tion, exemption, immunity, libera- ling, unfaded, vivid. Opp o l d , s t a l e .
tion, release. 3 freedom to choose. fret vb 1 agonize, be anxious, brood,
ability, Fr carte blanche, discretion, lose sleep, worry. 2 > a n n o y .
free hand, latitude, leeway, leisure,
fretful adj anxious, distressed, dis-
licence, opportunity, permission, turbed, edgy, irritable, irritated, jit-
power, privilege, right, scope. tery, peevish, petulant, restless, testy,
freeze vb 1 become ice, become touchy, worried. > b a d -t e mpe r e d . Opp
solid, congeal, harden, ice over, ice CALM.
up, solidify, stiffen. 2 chill, cool,
friction n 1 abrading, abrasion, attri-
make cold, numb. 3 freeze food, chill,
tion, chafing, fretting, grating, res-
deep-freeze, diy-freeze, ice, refriger-
istance, rubbing, scraping. 2 >
ate. 4 freeze the frame, fix, hold, im-
CONFLICT.
mobilize, keep still, paralyse, peg,
petrify, stand still, stick, stop, freez- friend n acquaintance, associate, inf
ing > COLD. buddy, inf chum, companion, com-
freight n cargo, consignment, goods, rade, confidant(e), inf crony, in-
haul, load, merchandise, payload, timate, inf mate, inf pal, partner,
shipment. pen-friend, playfellow, playmate,
supporter, well-wisher. > a l l y , l o v e r .
frenzy n agitation, delirium, de- Opp e n e my , be friends > a s s o c ia t e .
rangement, excitement, fever, fit, make friends with > b e f r ie n d .
fuiy, hysteria, insanity, lunacy, mad-
ness, mania, outburst, paroxysm, friendless adj abandoned, alienated,
passion, turmoil. alone, deserted, estranged, forlorn,
forsaken, isolated, lonely, ostracized,
frequent adj common, constant, con-
shunned, shut out, solitary, unat-
tinual, countless, customary, every-
tached, unloved.
day, familiar, habitual, incessant,
innumerable, many, normal, friendliness n benevolence, cama-
numerous, ordinary, persistent, raderie, conviviality, devotion, esteem,
recurrent, recurring, regular, reiter- familiarity, goodwill, helpfulness,
ative, repeated, usual. Opp in f r e q u e n t . hospitality, kindness, neighbourli-
• vb > HAUNT. ness, regard, sociability, warmth. Opp
HOSTILITY.
fresh adj 1 additional, alternative,
different, extra, just arrived, new, friendly adj accessible, affable, affec-
recent, supplementary, unfamiliar, tionate, agreeable, amiable, amic-
friendship 164

able, approachable, attached, bene- frightful adj 1 awful, ghastly, grisly,

volent, benign, inf chummy, civil, gruesome, harrowing, hideous, hor-
close, clubbable, companionable, rible, horrid, horrific, macabre,
compatible, comradely, conciliatory, shocking, terrible. > f r ig h t e n in g . 2 t>
congenial, convivial, cordial, de- BAD.
monstrative, expansive, favourable, fringe n 1 borders, boundary, edge,
genial, good-natured, gracious, help- limits, marches, margin, outskirts,
ful, hospitable, intimate, kind, kind- perimeter, periphery. 2 border, edg-
hearted, kindly, likeable, inf matey, ing, flounce, frill, gathering, ruffle,
neighbourly, outgoing, inf pally, sym- trimming, valance.
pathetic, tender, inf thick, warm, wel-
coming, well-disposed. t> f a mil ia r , frisky adj active, animated, colt-
LOVING, SOCIABLE. Opp UNFRIENDLY. ish, frolicsome, high-spirited, jaunty,
friendship n affection, alliance, lively, perky, playful, skittish, spir-
amity, association, attachment, close- ited, sprightly.
ness, comradeship, fellowship, fond- frivolity n childishness, facetious-
ness, harmony, intimacy, rapport, ness, flippancy, levity, light-hearted -
relationship. t> f r ie n d l in e s s , l o v e . Opp ness, nonsense, playing about,
HOSTILITY. silliness, triviality. > f u n .
fright' n 1 jolt, scare, shock, surprise. frivolous adj casual, childish, fa-
2 alarm, apprehension, consterna- cetious, flighty, inf flip, flippant,
tion, dismay, dread, fear, horror, foolish, inconsequential, insignifi-
panic, terror, trepidation. cant, irresponsible, jocular, joking,
frighten vb agitate, alarm, appal, minor, nugatory, paltry, petty,
browbeat, bully, cow, inf curdle your pointless, puerile, ridiculous, shal-
blood, daunt, dismay, distress, har- low, silly, stupid, superficial, trifling,
row, horrify, intimidate, make afraid, trivial, trumpery, unimportant, un-
inf make your blood run cold, make serious, vacuous, worthless. Opp
your hair stand on end, menace, SERIOUS.
panic, persecute, inf petrify, inf put
the wind up, scare, inf scare stiff, frock n dress, gown, robe.
shake, shock, startle, terrify, terror- frolic vb caper, cavort, curvet, dance,
ize, threaten, traumatize, tyrannize, frisk about, gambol, have fun, hop
unnerve, upset. t> d is c o u r a g e . Opp about, inf horse about, jump about,
REASSURE. lark around, leap about, inf make
frightened adj afraid, aghast, whoopee, play about, prance, revel,
alarmed, anxious, appalled, ap- rollick, romp, skip, skylark, sport.
prehensive, inf chicken, cowardly, front adj facing, first, foremost,
craven, daunted, fearful, harrowed, leading, most advanced. • n 1 an-
horrified, horror-struck, panicky, terior, bow (of ship), facade, face,
panic-stricken, petrified, scared, facing, forefront, foreground, front-
shocked, terrified, terrorstricken, age, head, nose, obverse, van, van-
trembling, unnerved, upset, inf guard. 2 battle area, danger zone,
windy. front line. 3 a brave front, appearance,
frightening adj alarming, appalling, aspect, bearing, blind, inf cover-
blood-curdling, in/creepy, daunting, up, demeanour, disguise, expres-
dire, dreadful, eerie, fearful, fearsome, sion, look, mask, pretence, show. Opp
formidable, ghostly, grim, hair- BACK.
raising, horrifying, intimidating,
frontal adj direct, facing, head-on,
petrifying, scary, sinister, spine-
chilling, inf spooky, terrifying, trau- oncoming, straight.
matic, uncanny, unnerving, upset- frontier n border, borderline, bound-
ting, weird, worrying. t> f r ig h t f u l . ary, bounds, limit, marches, pale.
165 fun
froth n bubbles, effervescence, foam, fugitive adj t> t r a n s ie n t . • n deserter,
head (on beer), lather, scum, spume, escapee, escaper, refugee, renegade,
suds. runaway.
frown vb inf give a dirty look, glare, fulfil vb 1 accomplish, achieve, bring
glower, grimace, knit your brows, about, bring off, cany off, cany out,
look sullen, lour, lower, scowl, frown complete, consummate, discharge,
on t> DISAPPROVE. do, effect, effectuate, execute, im-
plement, make come true, per-
fruit n □ apple, apricot, avocado, form, realize. 2 fulfil a need, answer,
banana, berry, bilberry, blackberry, comply with, conform to, meet, obey,
cherry, coconut, crabapple, cranberry, respond to, satisfy.
currant, damson, date, jig, gooseberry,
grape, grapefruit, greengage, guava, hip, full adj 1 brimming, bursting, inf
kiwi fruit, lemon, lichee, lime, litchi, chock-a-block, inf chock-full, con-
loganberry, lychee, mango, medlar, gested, crammed, crowded, filled,
melon, mulberry, nectarine, olive, orange, jammed, inf jam-packed, loaded,
papaw, pawpaw, peach, pear, pineapple, overflowing, packed, replete, solid,
plum, pomegranate, prune, quince, stuffed, topped-up, well-filled, well-
raisin, raspberry, satsuma, sloe, straw- stocked, well-supplied. 2 a full stom-
berry, sultana, tangerine, tomato, ugli. ach. gorged, sated, satiated, satisfied,
well-fed. 3 the full story, complete,
fruitful adj 1 abundant, bounteous, comprehensive, detailed, entire, ex-
bountiful, copious, fecund, fertile, haustive, plenary, thorough, total,
flourishing, lush, luxurious, plent- unabridged, uncensored, uncut, un-
eous, productive, profuse, prolific, edited, unexpurgated, whole. 4 full
rich. 2 advantageous, beneficial, speed, extreme, greatest, highest,
effective, gainful, profitable, reward- maximum, top, utmost. 5 a full figure.
ing, successful, useful, well-spent, ample, broad, buxom, fat, large,
worthwhile. Opp f r u it l e s s . plump, rounded, voluptuous, well-
fruitless adj 1 barren, sterile, un- built. 6 a full skirt, baggy, generous,
fruitful, unproductive. 2 abortive, voluminous, wide. Opp e mpt y , in c o m -
bootless, disappointing, futile, in- pl e t e , SMALL.
effective, ineffectual, pointless, full-grown adj adult, grown-up,
profitless, unavailing, unprofitable, mature, ready, ripe.
unrewarding, unsuccessful, useless, fumble vb grope at, feel, handle awk-
vain. Opp f r u it f u l . wardly, mishandle, stumble, touch
frustrate vb baffle, balk, baulk, clumsily.
block, check, disappoint, discourage, fume vb emit fumes, smoke, smoul-
foil, halt, hamstring, hinder, impede, der. fuming > a n g r y .
inhibit, nullify, prevent, inf scotch,
fumes plurn exhaust, fog, gases, pol-
stop, stymie, thwart. > d e f e a t . Opp
lution, smog, smoke, vapour.
ENCOURAGE.
fun n amusement, clowning, diver-
frustrated adj disappointed, embit- sion, enjoyment, entertainment, fest-
tered, loveless, lovesick, resentful, ivity, inf fooling around, frolic, inf
thwarted, unfulfilled, unsatisfied. fun-and-games, gaiety, games, inf
fuel n □ anthracite, butane, charcoal, high jinks, high spirits, horseplay,
coal, coke, derv, diesel, electricity, gas, jocularity, jokes, joking, joc jollifica-
gasoline, kindling, logs, methylated tion, jollity, laughter, merriment,
spirit, nuclear fuel, oil, paraffin, peat, merrymaking, mirth, pastimes,
petrol, propane, tinder, wood. • vb play, playfulness, pleasure, pranks,
encourage, feed, inflame, keep going, recreation, romp, inf skylarking,
nourish, put fuel on, stoke up, sup- sport, teasing, tomfoolery. > f r iv o -
ply with fuel. l it y . make fun of t> mo c k .
function 166

function n 1 aim, purpose, Fr raison furnish vb 1 decorate, equip, fit out,

d’etre, use. t> j o b . 2 an official func- fit up, inf kit out. 2 furnish information.
tion. affair, ceremony, inf do, event, afford, give, grant, provide, supply.
occasion, party, reception. • vb act, furniture n antiques, chattels, effects,
behave, go, operate, perform, run, equipment, fitments, fittings, fix-
work. tures, furnishings, household goods,
functional adj functioning, prac- inf movables, possessions. □ armchair,
tical, serviceable, useful, utilitarian, bed, bench, bookcase, bunk, bureau, cabi-
working. Opp d e c o r a t iv e . net, chair, chesterfield, chest of drawers,
fund n cache, hoard, inf kitty, mine, chiffonier, commode, cot, couch, cradle,
pool, reserve, reservoir, stock, store, cupboard, cushion, desk, divan, drawer,
supply, treasurehouse, funds capital, dresser, dressing-table, easel, fender,
endowments, investments, reserves, filing-cabinet, fireplace, mantelpiece,
resources, riches, savings, wealth. > ottoman, overmantel, pelmet, pew,
MONEY. pouffe, rocking-chair, seat, settee, side-
fundamental adj axiomatic, basic,
board, sofa, stool, suite, table, trestle-
cardinal, central, crucial, elementary, table, wardrobe, workbench.
essential, important, key, main, ne- furrow n channel, corrugation,
cessary, primary, prime, principal, crease, cut, ditch, drill, fissure, flut-
quintessential, rudimentary, under- ing, gash, groove, hollow, line, rut,
lying. Opp INESSENTIAL. score, scratch, track, trench, wrinkle.
funeral n burial, cremation, entomb- furrowed adj 1 creased, crinkled,
ment, exequies, interment, ob- corrugated, fluted, grooved, ploughed,
sequies, Requiem Mass, wake. ribbed, ridged, rutted, scored. 2 fur-
funereal adj dark, depressing, dis- rowed brow, frowning, lined, worried,
mal, gloomy, grave, mournful, sepul- wrinkled. Opp s m o o t h .
chral, solemn, sombre. i> s a d . Opp furry adj bristly, downy, feathery,
CHEERFUL. fleecy, fuzzy, hairy, woolly.
funnel n chimney, smoke-stack. • vb
channel, direct, filter, pour. further adj accessory, additional,
another, auxiliary, extra, fresh, more,
funny adj 1 absurd, amusing, comic, new, other, spare, supplementary.
comical, crazy, inf daft, diverting,
droll, eccentric, entertaining, fa- furthermore adv additionally, also,
cetious, farcical, foolish, grotesque, besides, moreover, too.
hilarious, humorous, inf hysterical, furtive adj clandestine, concealed,
ironic, jocose, jocular, inf killing, conspiratorial, covert, deceitful,
laughable, ludicrous, mad, merry, disguised, hidden, mysterious, pri-
nonsensical, preposterous, inf price- vate, secret, secretive, shifty, sly, inf
less, inf rich, ridiculous, risible, sneaky, stealthy, surreptitious,
sarcastic, sardonic, satirical, inf side- underhand, untrustworthy. t> c r a f t y .
splitting, silly, slapstick, uproarious, Opp BLATANT.
waggish, witty, zany. Opp s e r io u s . 21>
PECULIAR. fury n ferocity, fierceness, force, in-
tensity, madness, power, rage, sav-
fur n bristles, coat, down, fleece, hair,
agery, tempestuousness, turbulence,
hide, pelt, skin, wool.
vehemence, violence, wrath. t> a n g e r .
furious adj 1 boiling, enraged, fum-
ing, incensed, infuriated, irate, livid, fuse vb amalgamate, blend, coalesce,
mad, raging, savage, wrathful. t> combine, commingle, compound,
a n g r y . 2 furious activity, agitated, consolidate, join, meld, melt, merge,
fierce, frantic, frenzied, intense, tem- mix, solder, unite, weld.
pestuous, tumultuous, turbulent, fusillade n barrage, burst, firing,
violent, wild. Opp c a l m . outburst, salvo, volley.
167 fuzzy
fuss n > c o mm o t io n . • vb agitate, ive, unprofitable, unsuccessful, use-
bother, complain, inf create, fidget, less, vain, wasted, worthless. Opp
inf flap, inf get worked up, grumble, FRUITFUL.
make a commotion, worry.
future adj approaching, awaited,
fussy adj 1 carping, choosy, difficult, coming, destined, expected, forth-
discriminating, inf faddy, fastidious, coming, impending, intended, planned,
inf finicky, hard to please, niggling, prospective, subsequent, unborn. • n
inf nit-picking, particular, inf expectations, outlook, prospects,
pernickety, scrupulous, squeamish. time to come, tomorrow. Opp pa s t .
2 fussy decorations. Byzantine, com-
plicated, detailed, elaborate, fancy, fuzz n down, floss, fluff, hair.
ornate, overdone, rococo. fuzzy adj 1 downy, featheiy, fleecy,
futile adj abortive, absurd, barren, fluffy, frizzy, furiy, linty, woolly.
bootless, empty, foolish, forlorn, 2 bleary, blurred, cloudy, dim, faint,
fruitless, hollow, impotent, ineffect- hazy, ill-defined, indistinct, misty,
ive, ineffectual, pointless, profitless, obscure, out of focus, shadowy,
silly, sterile, unavailing, unproduct- unclear, unfocused, vague. Opp c l e a r .
 G
gadget n apparatus, appliance, con- nanimous, noble, polite, valiant,
traption, contrivance, device, im- well-bred. > b r a v e . Opp v il l a in o u s .
plement, instrument, invention, gallows plur n gibbet, scaffold,
machine, tool, utensil. gamble vb back, bet, chance, draw
gag n > jo k e . • vb check, curb, keep lots, game, inf have a flutter, hazard,
quiet, muffle, muzzle, prevent from lay bets, risk money, speculate, stake
speaking, quiet, silence, stifle, still, money, inf take a chance, take risks,
suppress. inf try your luck, venture, wager.
gaiety, n brightness, cheerfulness, game adj > b r a v e , w il l in g . • n 1 am-
colourfiilness, delight, exhilaration, usement, diversion, entertainment,
felicity', glee, happiness, high spirits, frolic, fun, jest, joke, inf lark, inf
hilarity, jollity, joyfulness, joyous- messing about, pastime, play, play-
ness, light-heartedness, liveliness, ing, recreation, romp, sport. 2 com-
merriment, merrymaking, mirth. petition, contest, match, round,
gain n achievement, acquisition, tournament. > s po r t . 3 animals,
advantage, asset, attainment, ben- game-birds, prey, quarry, give the
efit, dividend, earnings, income, game away > r e v e a l .
increase, proceeds, profit, return, gang n band, crew, crowd, mob, pack,
revenue, winnings, yield. Opp l o s s . • ring, team. > g r o u p , gang together,
vb 1 acquire, bring in, capture, col- gang up > COMBINE.
lect, earn, gamer, gather in, get, har- gangster n bandit, brigand, crim-
vest, make, net, obtain, pick up, inal, inf crook, desperado, gunman,
procure, profit, realize, reap, receive, hoodlum, hooligan, mafioso, mug-
win. Opp l o s e . 2 gain your objective. ger, racketeer, robber, ruffian, thug,
achieve, arrive at, attain, get to, tough.
reach, secure. Opp m is s , gain on
approach, catch up with, close the gaol n borstal, cell, custody, dun-
gap, close with, go faster than, leave geon, guardhouse, jail, Amer pen-
behind, overhaul, overtake. itentiary, prison. • vb confine,
detain, imprison, incarcerate, intern,
gainful adj advantageous, beneficial, inf send down, send to prison, inf
fruitful, lucrative, paid, productive, shut away, shut up.
profitable, remunerative, rewarding,
useful, worthwhile. gaoler n guard, jailer, prison officer,
si screw, warder.
gala n carnival, celebration, fair, fest-
ival, festivity, fete, inf jamboree, gap n 1 aperture, breach, break, cav-
ity, chink, cleft, crack, cranny,
party-
crevice, gulf, hole, opening, rent, rift,
gale n blast, cyclone, hurricane, out- rip, space, void. 2 breathing-space,
burst, storm, tempest, tornado, discontinuity, hiatus, interlude, inter-
typhoon, wind. mission, interruption, interval, lacu-
gallant adj attentive, chivalrous, na, lapse, lull, pause, recess, respite,
courageous, courteous, courtly, dash- rest, suspension, wait. 3 gap between
ing, fearless, gentlemanly, gracious, political parties, difference, disagree-
heroic, honourable, intrepid, mag- ment, discrepancy, disparity, dis-
169 gear
tance, divergence, division, incom- grow, heap up, herd, hoard, huddle
patibility, inconsistency. together, marshal, mass, meet, mobi-
gape vb 1 open, part, split, yawn. lize, muster, pick up, pile up, rally,
2 inf gawp, gaze, inf goggle, stare. round up, stockpile, store up, swarm,
throng. Opp d is pe r s e . 2 gather flowers.
garbage n debris, detritus, junk, lit-
cull, garner, glean, harvest, pick,
ter, muck, refuse, scrap, trash, waste.
pluck, reap. 31 gather he’s ill. assume,
I> RUBBISH.
be led to believe, conclude, deduce,
garble vb corrupt, distort, falsify, guess, infer, learn, surmise, under-
misconstrue, misquote, misrep- stand.
resent, mutilate, pervert, slant, twist,
gathering n assembly, conclave,
warp. i> c o n f u s e .
congress, convention, convocation,
garden n allotment, patch, plot, function, inf get-together, meeting,
yard. □ arbour, bed, border, herbaceous party, rally, social. > g r o u p .
border, lawn, orchard, patio, pergola,
gaudy adj bright, Brummagem,
rock garden, rose garden, shrubbery, ter-
race, vegetable garden, walled garden, cheap, crude, flamboyant, flashy,
water garden, window-box. gardens garish, harsh, loud, lurid, meretri-
grounds, park. cious, ostentatious, raffish, showy,
startling, tasteless, tawdry, vivid, vul-
gardening n cultivation, horticul- gar. Opp DRAB, TASTEFUL.
ture.
gauge n 1 bench-mark, criteri-
garish adj bright, Brummagem, on, guide-line, measurement, norm,
cheap, crude, flamboyant, flashy, standard, test, yardstick. 2 capac-
gaudy, harsh, loud, lurid, meretri- ity, dimensions, extent, measure,
cious, ostentatious, raffish, showy, size, span, thickness, width. • vb
startling, tasteless, tawdry, vivid, vul- > ESTIMATE, MEASURE.
gar. Opp DRAB, TASTEFUL.
gaunt adj 1 bony, cadaverous, ema-
garment n apparel, attire, clothing, ciated, haggard, hollow-eyed, lanky,
costume, dress, garb, habit, outfit. > lean, pinched, raw-boned, scraggy,
CLOTHES. scrawny, skeletal, starving, under-
garrison n 1 contingent, detach- weight, wasted away. > t h in . Opp pl u mp.
ment, force, unit. 2 barracks, camp, 2 a gaunt ruin, bare, bleak, desolate,
citadel, fort, fortification, fortress, dreary, forbidding, grim, stark, stem,
station, stronghold. unfriendly. Opp a t t r a c t iv e .
gas n exhalation, exhaust, fumes, gawky adj awkward, blundering,
miasma, vapour. clumsy, gangling, gauche, inept,
gash vb chop, cleave, cut, incise, la- lumbering, maladroit, uncoordi-
cerate, score, slash, slit, split, wound. nated, ungainly, ungraceful, unskil-
ful. Opp GRACEFUL.
gasp vb blow, breathe with difficulty,
choke, fight for breath, gulp, inf huff gay adj 1 animated, bright, carefree,
and puff, pant, puff, snort, wheeze, cheerful, colourful, festive, fun-
gasping l> BREATHLESS, THIRSTY. loving, jolly, jovial, joyful, light-
hearted, lively, merry, sparkling,
gate n access, barrier, door, entrance,
sunny, vivacious. > h a ppy . 2 > h o m o -
entry, exit, gateway, kissing-gate,
sex u a l .
opening, passage, poet portal, port-
cullis, turnstile, way in, way out, gaze vb contemplate, gape, look,
wicket, wicket-gate. regard, stare, view, wonder (at).
gather vb 1 accumulate, amass, gear n accessories, accoutrements,
assemble, bring together, build up, apparatus, appliances, baggage, be-
cluster, collect, come together, con- longings, equipment, inf get-up, har-
centrate, congregate, convene, crowd, ness, implements, instruments, kit,
flock, forgather, get together, group, luggage, materials, paraphernalia,
gem 170

rig, stuff, tackle, things, tools, trap- jolly, jovial, kindly, pleasant, relaxed,
pings. > CLOTHES. sociable, sunny, warm, warm-
hearted. > FRIENDLY. Opp UNFRIENDLY.
gem n gemstone, jewel, precious
stone, si sparkler. genitals plur n genitalia, inf private
general adj 1 accepted, accustomed, parts, pudenda, sex organs.
collective, common, communal, genius n 1 ability, aptitude, bent,
conventional, customary, every- brains, brilliance, capability, flair,
day, familiar, habitual, normal, ordi- gift, intellect, intelligence, knack, tal-
nary, popular, prevailing, prevalent, ent, wit. 2 academic, inf egghead,
public, regular, inf run-of-the-mill, expert, intellectual, derog know-all,
shared, typical, usual. 2 general dis- mastermind, thinker, virtuoso.
cussion. across-the-board, all-embrac-
genteel adj derog affected, chival-
ing, blanket, broad-based, catholic,
rous, courtly, gentlemanly, ladylike,
comprehensive, diversified, encyc-
mannered, overpolite, patrician, inf
lopaedic, extensive, far-ranging, far-
reaching, global, heterogeneous, posh, refined, stylish, inf upper-crust.
hybrid, inclusive, sweeping, univer- > POLITE.
sal, wholesale, wide-ranging, wide- gentle adj 1 amiable, biddable, com-
spread, worldwide. 3 a general idea. passionate, docile, easygoing, good-
approximate, broad, ill-defined, tempered, harmless, humane, kind,
imprecise, indefinite, inexact, in out- kindly, lenient, loving, meek, merci-
line, loose, simplified, superficial, ful, mild, moderate, obedient, pacific,
unclear, undefined, unspecific, passive, peace-loving, pleasant, quiet,
vague. Opp s pe c if ic . soft-hearted, sweet-tempered, sym-
generally adv as a rule, broadly, pathetic, tame, tender. 2 gentle music.
chiefly, commonly, in the main, main- low, muted, peaceful, reassuring,
ly, mostly, normally, on the whole, relaxing, soft, soothing. 3 gentle wind.
predominantly, principally, usually. balmy, delicate, faint, light, soft,
warm. 4 a gentle hint, indirect, polite,
generate vb beget, breed, bring subtle, tactful. 5 a gentle hill, easy,
about, cause, create, engender, gradual, imperceptible, moderate,
father, give rise to, make, originate, slight, steady. Opp h a r s h , s e v e r e .
procreate, produce, propagate, sire,
spawn, inf whip up. genuine adj 1 actual, authentic,
authenticated, Lat bona fide, legiti-
generosity n bounty, largesse, lib-
mate, original, proper, si pukka, real,
erality, munificence, philanthropy. sterling, veritable. 2 genuine feelings.
generous adj 1 benevolent, big- candid, devout, earnest, frank, heart-
hearted, bounteous, bountiful, char- felt, honest, sincere, true, unaffected,
itable, disinterested, forgiving, inf unfeigned. Opp f a l s e .
free, impartial, kind, liberal, mag-
germ n 1 basis, beginning, embryo,
nanimous, munificent, noble, open,
open-handed, philanthropic, public- genesis, cause, nucleus, origin, root,
spirited, unmercenary, unprejudiced, seed, source, start. 2 bacterium, inf
unselfish, unsparing, unstinting. bug, microbe, micro-organism, virus.
2 generous gifts, handsome, princely, germinate vb begin to grow, bud,
undeserved, unearned, valuable. t> develop, grow, root, shoot, spring up,
e x pe n s iv e . 3 generous portions, abun- sprout, start growing, take root.
dant, ample, copious, lavish, plenti- gesture n action, flourish, ges-
ful, sizeable, substantial. > b ig . Opp ticulation, indication, motion,
MEAN, SELFISH.
movement, sign, signal. • vb gesticu-
genial adj affable, agreeable, ami- late, indicate, motion, sign, signal.
able, cheerful, convivial, cordial, □ beckon, bow, nod, point, salute, shake
easygoing, good-natured, happy, your head, shrug, smile, wave, wink.
 171 give
get vb 1 acquire, be given, bring, buy, giddy adj dizzy, faint, light-headed,
come by, come in possession of, reeling, silly, spinning, unbalanced,
earn, fetch, gain, get hold of, inherit, unsteady, vertiginous.
inf land, inf lay hands on, obtain, pick gift n 1 benefaction, bonus, bounty,
up, procure, purchase, receive, re- charity, contribution, donation, fa-
trieve, secure, take, win. 2 get her by vour, inf give-away, grant, gratuity,
phone, contact, get in touch with, inf hand-out, honorarium, largesse,
reach, speak to. 3 get a cold, catch, offering, present, tip. 2 ability, apti-
come down with, contract, develop, tude, bent, capability, capacity, facil-
fall ill with, suffer from. 4 get a ity, flair, genius, knack, power,
criminal, apprehend, arrest, capture, strength, talent.
catch, inf collar, inf nab, si pinch,
seize. 5 get him to help, cajole, cause, gifted adj able, capable, expert, skil-
induce, influence, persuade, prevail ful, skilled, talented. > c l e v e r .
on, inf twist someone’s arm, wheedle. gigantic adj Brobdingnagian, colos-
6 get tea. cook, make ready, prepare. sal, elephantine, enormous, gar-
7 get what he means, absorb, appre- gantuan, giant, herculean, huge,
ciate, apprehend, comprehend, fath- immense, inf jumbo, inf king-size,
om, follow, glean, grasp, know, take mammoth, massive, mighty, mon-
in, understand, work out. 8 get what strous, prodigious, titanic, towering,
he says, catch, distinguish, hear, make vast. > BIG. Opp SMALL.
out. 9 get somewhere, arrive, come, go, giggle vb snicker, snigger, titter. >
journey, reach, travel. 10 get cold. LAUGH.
become, grow, turn, get across >
gimcrack adj cheap, inf cheap and
c o m m u n ic a t e , get ahead > pr o s pe r .
nasty, flimsy, rubbishy, shoddy, tawdry,
get at > c r it ic iz e , get away > e s c a pe .
trashy, trumpery, useless, worth-
get down > d e s c e n d , get in > e n t e r .
less.
get off > d e s c e n d , get on > pr o s pe r .
get out > l e a v e , get together o gimmick n device, ploy, ruse, strat-
GATHER. agem, stunt, subterfuge, trick.
girder n bar, beam, joist, rafter,
getaway n escape, flight, retreat.
girdle n band, belt, corset, waist-
ghastly adj appalling, awful, death-
band. • vb t> s u r r o u n d .
like, dreadful, frightening, frightful,
grim, grisly, gruesome, hideous, hor- girl n si bird, old use damsel, daughter,
rible, macabre, nasty, shocking, ter- debutante, fiancee, girlfriend, hoy-
rible, upsetting. > u n pl e a s a n t . den, lass, old use maid, old use
maiden, inf miss, schoolgirl, tomboy,
ghost n apparition, banshee, inf virgin, old use or sexist wench. >
bogey, Ger doppelganger, ghoul, hal- WOMAN.
lucination, illusion, phantasm,
phantom, poltergeist, shade, shadow, girth n circumference, measurement
spectre, spirit, inf spook, vision, visit- round, perimeter.
ant, wraith, give up the ghost > d ie . gist n core, direction, drift, essence,
general sense, main idea, meaning,
ghostly adj creepy, disembodied,
nub, pith, point, quintessence, sig-
eerie, frightening, illusory, phantas-
nificance.
mal, scary, sinister, spectral, inf
spooky, supernatural, uncanny, give vb 1 accord, allocate, allot, allow,
unearthly, weird, wraith-like. apportion, assign, award, bestow,
confer, contribute, deal out, inf dish
giant adj > g ig a n t ic . • n colossus, out, distribute, inf dole out, donate,
Goliath, leviathan, monster, ogre, endow, entrust, inf fork out, furnish,
superhuman, titan, inf whopper. give away, give out, grant, hand over,
giddiness n dizziness, faintness, lend, let (someone) have, offer, pass
unsteadiness, vertigo. over, pay, present, provide, ration
glad 172

out, render, share out, supply. 2 give glasshouse n conservatory, green-

information, deliver, display, express, house, hothouse, orangery, vinery.
impart, issue, notify, publish, put glassy adj 1 glazed, gleaming,
across, put into words, reveal, set glossy, icy, polished, shining, shiny,
out, show, tell, transmit. 3 give a smooth, vitreous. 2 glassy stare. >
shout, emit, let out, utter, voice. 4 give EXPRESSIONLESS.
medicine, administer, dispense, dose glaze vb burnish, enamel, gloss, lac-
with, impose, inflict, mete out, pre- quer, polish, shellac, shine, varnish.
scribe. 5 give a party, arrange, organ-
ize, provide, put on, run, set up. gleam vb flash, glimmer, glint, glis-
6 give trouble, cause, create, engen- ten, glow, reflect, shine. > l ig h t .
der, occasion. 7 give underpressure, be gleaming > BRIGHT.
flexible, bend, buckle, collapse, dis- gleeful adj cheerful, delighted, ec-
tort, fail, fall apart, give way, warp, static, exuberant, exultant, gay,
yield. Opp r e c e iv e , t a k e , give away > jovial, joyful, jubilant, overjoyed,
BETRAY, give in > SURRENDER, give off, pleased, rapturous, triumphant. >
give out > EMIT, give up > ABANDON, HAPPY. Opp SAD.
SURRENDER. glib adj articulate, facile, fast-talking,
glad 'adj 1 content, delighted, gra- fluent, insincere, plausible, quick,
tified, joyful, overjoyed, pleased. > ready, shallow, slick, smooth, smooth-
h a ppy . Opp g l o o my . 2 glad to help, dis- tongued, suave, superficial, unctu-
posed, eager, inclined, keen, ready, ous. > TALKATIVE. Opp INARTICULATE,
Willing. Opp RELUCTANT. SINCERE.
glamorize vb idealize, romanticize, glide vb coast, drift, float, fly, free-
wheel, glissade, hang, hover, move
glamorous adj alluring, appealing,
smoothly, sail, skate, ski, skid, skim,
colourful, dazzling, enviable, excit- slide, slip, soar, stream.
ing, exotic, fascinating, glittering,
prestigious, romantic, smart, spec- glimpse n glance, look, peep, sight,
tacular, wealthy. > b e a u t if u l . inf squint, view. • vb discern, dis-
tinguish, espy, get a glimpse of,
glamour n allure, appeal, attraction, make out, notice, observe, see
brilliance, charm, excitement, fas- briefly, sight, spot, spy.
cination, glitter, high-life, lustre,
magic, romance. > b e a u t y . glisten vb flash, gleam, glimmer,
glint, glitter, reflect, shine. > l ig h t .
glance vb glimpse, have a quick
glitter vb coruscate, flash, scintillate,
look, peek, peep, scan, skim, si take
spark, sparkle, twinkle. > l ig h t , glit-
a dekko. > l o o k .
tering > BRIGHT.
glare vb 1 frown, inf give a nasty
gloat vb boast, brag, inf crow, exult,
look, glower, inf look daggers, lour, glory, rejoice, inf rub it in, show off,
lower, scowl, stare angrily. 2 blaze, triumph.
dazzle, flare, reflect, shine. > l ig h t .
glaring > BRIGHT. global adj broad, far-reaching, inter-
national, pandemic, total, universal,
glass n 1 crystal, glassware. wide-ranging, worldwide. Opp l o c a l .
2 glazing, pane, plate-glass, window.
globe n 1 ball, globule, orb, sphere.
3 looking-glass, mirror, reflector.
2 earth, planet, world.
4 beaker, drinking-glass, goblet, tum-
bler, wine-glass. 5 optical instru- gloom n blackness, cloudiness,
ment. □ binoculars, field-glasses, goggles, darkness, dimness, dullness, dusk,
magnijying glass, microscope, opera- murk, murkiness, obscurity, semi-
glasses, telescope, spyglass, glasses inf darkness, shade, shadow, twilight. >
specs, spectacles. □ bifocals, contact- DEPRESSION.
lenses, eyeglass, lorgnette, monocle, pince- gloomy adj 1 cheerless, cloudy, dark,
nez, reading glasses, sun-glasses, trifocals. depressing, dim, dingy, dismal,
173
go
dreaiy, dull, glum, grim, heavy, joy- radiate heat, redden, smoulder,
less, murky, obscure, overcast, shad- warm up. > l ig h t .
owy, shady, sombre. 2 a gjoomy mood. glower vb frown, glare, lour, lower,
depressed, downhearted, lugubrious, scowl, stare angrily.
mournful, pessimistic, saturnine. >
glowing adj 1 aglow, bright, hot,
SAD. Opp CHEERFUL.
incandescent, lambent, luminous,
glorious adj 1 celebrated, distin- phosphorescent, radiant, red, red-
guished, eminent, famed, famous, hot, white-hot. 2 glowing praise, com-
heroic, illustrious, noble, noted, re- plimentary, enthusiastic, fervent,
nowned, triumphant. 2 glorious passionate, warm.
weather, beautiful, bright, brilliant, glue n adhesive, cement, fixative,
dazzling, delightful, excellent, fine, gum, paste, sealant, size, wallpaper-
gorgeous, grand, impressive, lovely, paste. • vb affix, bond, cement,
magnificent, majestic, marvellous, out- fasten, fix, gum, paste, seal, stick.
standing, pleasurable, resplendent,
glum adj cheerless, displeased,
spectacular, splendid, inf super,
gloomy, grim, heavy, joyless, lugubri-
superb, wonderful. Opp o r d in a r y .
ous, moody, mournful, inf out of
glory n 1 credit, distinction, em- sorts, saturnine, sullen. > s a d . Opp
inence, fame, honour, inf kudos, CHEERFUL.
praise, prestige, renown, repute, re- glut n abundance, excess, over-
putation, success, triumph. 2 glory to abundance, overflow, overprovision,
God. adoration, exaltation, glori- plenty, superfluity, surfeit, surplus.
fication, gratitude, homage, praise, Opp SCARCITY.
thanksgiving, veneration, wor-
glutton njoc good trencherman, gor-
ship 3 glory of sunrise, brightness,
mandizer, gourmand, inf greedy-
brilliance, grandeur, magnificence,
guts, guzzler, inf pig.
majesty, radiance, splendour, won-
der. > BEAUTY. gluttonous adj gormandizing,
greedy, inf hoggish, inf piggish, insa-
gloss n 1 brightness, brilliance, tiable, ravenous, voracious.
burnish, finish, glaze, gleam, lustre, gnarled adj bent, bumpy, contorted,
polish, sheen, shine, varnish. 2 anno-
crooked, distorted, knobbly, knotted,
tation, comment, definition, elu- knotty, lumpy, rough, rugged, twisted,
cidation, exegesis, explanation,
warped.
footnote, marginal note, note, para-
phrase. • vb annotate, comment on, gnaw vb bite, chew, erode, wear away.
define, elucidate, explain, interpret, t> EAT.
paraphrase, gloss over > c o n c e a l . go n attempt, chance, inf crack,
opportunity, inf shot, inf stab, try,
glossary n dictionary, phrasebook,
turn. • vb 1 advance, begin, be off,
vocabulary, word-list. commence, decamp, depart, disap-
glossy adj bright, burnished, glassy, pear, embark, escape, get away, get
glazed, gleaming, glistening, lus- going, get moving, get out, get under
trous, polished, reflective, shiny, way, leave, make off, move, inf nip
silky, sleek, smooth, waxed. Opp d u l l . along, pass along, pass on, proceed,
retire, retreat, lun, set off, set out, inf
glove n gauntlet, mitt, mitten. shove off, start, take off, take your
glow n 1 burning, fieriness, heat, leave, vanish, old use wend your way,
incandescence, luminosity, lustre, withdraw. > r u n , t r a v e l , w a l k . 2 die,
phosphorescence, radiation, red-heat, fade, fail, give way. 3 extend, lead,
redness. 2 ardour, blush, enthusi- reach, stretch. 4 car won’t go. act, func-
asm, fervour, flush, passion, rosiness, tion, operate, perform, run, work.
warmth. • vb blush, flush, gleam, 5 bomb went bang, give off, make, pro-
incandesce, light up, phosphoresce, duce, sound. 6 Time goes slowly.
goad 174

elapse, lapse, pass. 7 go sour, become, caring, charitable, chaste, consider-

grow, turn. 8 Milk goes in the fridge. ate, decent, dependable, dutiful, eth-
belong, feel at home, have a proper ical, friendly, helpful, holy, honest,
place, live, go away > d e pa r t , go honourable, humane, incorruptible,
down > d e s c e n d , s in k , go in for > l ik e . innocent, just, law-abiding, loyal,
go into > in v e s t ig a t e . go off > e x pl o d e . merciful, moral, noble, obedient, per-
go on > c o n t in u e , go through > s u f - sonable, pure, reliable, religious,
f e r . go to > v is it , go together > righteous, saintly, sound, in/straight,
MATCH, go with > ACCOMPANY, go with- thoughtful, true, trustworthy, up-
out > ABSTAIN. right, virtuous, well-behaved, well-
goad vb badger, inf chivvy, egg on, inf mannered, worthy. > k in d . 3 a good
hassle, needle, prick, prod, prompt, worker, able, accomplished, capable,
spur, urge. > s t imu l a t e . conscientious, efficient, gifted, pro-
ficient, skilful, skilled, talented. >
go-ahead adj ambitious, enterpris-
c l e v e r . 4 good work, careful, compe-
ing, forward-looking, progressive,
tent, correct, creditable, efficient,
resourceful. • n approval, in/green
meritorious, neat, orderly, present-
light, permission, sanction, inf say-so,
able, professional, thorough, well-
inf thumbs-up.
done. 5 good food, beneficial, delicious,
goal n aim, ambition, aspiration, eatable, healthy, nourishing, nutri-
design, end, ideal, intention, object, tious, tasty, well-cooked, wholesome.
objective, purpose, target. 6 a good book, classic, exciting, great,
gobble vb bolt, devour, gulp, guzzle. interesting, readable, well-written.
> EAT. Opp BAD. good-humoured > GOOD-TEM-
go-between n agent, broker, envoy, PERED. good-looking > h a n d s o m e .
intermediary, liaison, mediator, mes- good-natured > g o o d -t e mpe r e d , good
senger, middleman, negotiator, act person in/angel, in/jewel, philan-
as go-between > me d ia t e . thropist, inf saint, Samaritan, wor-
thy. goods 1 belongings, chattels,
go<*»
effects, possessions, property. 2 com-
goddess ns deity, divinity, godhead, modities, freight, load, merchandise,
spirit. God the Almighty, the Cre- produce, stock, wares.
ator, the supreme being, the gods
the immortals, the pantheon, the goodbye n farewell, departure,
powers above. leave-taking, parting words, send-off,
godsend n in/bit of good luck, bless- valediction. □ adieu, adios, arrivederci,
ing, boon, gift, miracle, inf stroke of aufWiedersehen, au revoir, bon voyage,
good fortune, windfall. cheerio, ciao, so long.
golden adj 1 aureate, gilded, gilt. good-tempered adj accommodat-
2 golden hair, blond, blonde, flaxen, ing, amenable, amiable, benevolent,
yellow. benign, cheerful, cheeiy, considerate,
good adj 1 acceptable, admirable, cooperative, cordial, friendly, genial,
agreeable, appropriate, approved of, good-humoured, good-natured, help-
commendable, delightful, enjoyable, ful, in a good mood, obliging, pa-
esteemed, in/fabulous, fair, inf fant- tient, pleasant, relaxed, smiling,
astic, fine, gratifying, happy, inf sympathetic, thoughtful, willing. >
incredible, lovely, marvellous, nice, KIND. Opp BAD-TEMPERED.
perfect, inf phenomenal, pleasant,
gorge vb be greedy, fill up, gormand-
pleasing, praiseworthy, proper, re- ize, guzzle, indulge yourself, inf
markable, right, satisfactory, inf sen-
make a pig of yourself, overeat, inf
sational, sound, splendid, suitable,
stuff yourself. > e a t .
in/super, superb, useful, valid, valu-
able, wonderful, worthy. > e x c e l l e n t . gorgeous adj colourful, dazzling,
2 a good person, angelic, benevolent, glorious, magnificent, resplendent,
175 grain
showy, splendid, sumptuous. t> bea u -
graciousness, kindness, love, mercy.
t if u l . 3 grace before meals, blessing, prayer,
gory adj blood-stained, bloody, grisly, thanksgiving.
gruesome, sanguinary, savage. graceful adj 1 agile, balletic, deft,
gospel n creed, doctrine, good news, dignified, easy, elegant, flowing,
good tidings, message, religion, rev- fluid, natural, nimble, pliant, slen-
elation, teaching, testament. der, slim, smooth, supple, willowy. t>
b e a u t if u l . 2 graceful compliments, cour-
gossip n 1 casual talk, chatter, inf
the grapevine, hearsay, prattle, ru- teous, courtly, delicate, kind, polite,
mour, scandal, small talk, inf tattle, refined, suave, tactful, urbane. Opp
inf tittle-tattle. 2 inf blab, busybody, GRACELESS.
chatterbox, inf Nosey Parker, ru- graceless adj 1 awkward, clumsy,
mourmonger, scandalmonger, tell- gangling, gawky, inelegant, mal-
tale. • vb inf blab, chat, chatter, inf adroit, uncoordinated, ungainly. t>
natter, prattle, spread scandal, inf c l u ms y . Opp g r a c e f u l . 2 graceless man-
tattle, tell tales, inf tittle-tattle. t> ners. boorish, gauche, inept, tactless,
TALK. uncouth. t> RUDE.
gouge vb chisel, dig, gash, hollow, gracious adj 1 affable, agreeable,
incise, scoop. t> c u t . civilized, cordial, courteous, digni-
gourmet n Fr bon viveur, connois- fied, elegant, friendly, good-natured,
seur, epicure, gastronome, derog pleasant, polite, with grace. t> k in d .
gourmand. 2 clement, compassionate, forgiving,
generous, indulgent, lenient, mag-
govern vb 1 administer, be in charge nanimous, pitying, sympathetic. t>
of, command, conduct affairs, con- m e r c if u l . 3 gracious living, affluent,
trol, direct, guide, head, lead, look expensive, lavish, luxurious, opulent,
after, manage, oversee, preside over, selfindulgent, sumptuous.
reign, rule, run, steer, superintend,
supervise. 2 govern your anger, bridle, grade n category, class, condition,
check, control, curb, discipline, keep degree, echelon, estate, level, mark,
in check, keep under control, master, notch, point, position, quality, rank,
regulate, restrain, tame. rung, situation, standard, standing,
status, step. • vb 1 arrange, categor-
government n administration, author- ize, classify, differentiate, group,
ity, bureaucracy, conduct of state organize, range, size, sort. 2 grade
affairs, constitution, control, direc- students’ work, assess, evaluate, mark,
tion, domination, management, rank, rate.
oversight, regime, regulation, rule,
sovereignty, supervision, surveil- gradient n ascent, bank, declivity,
lance, sway, a commonwealth, democ- hill, incline, rise, slope.
racy, dictatorship, empire, federation, gradual adj continuous, easy, even,
kingdom, monarchy, oligarchy, republic. gentle, leisurely, moderate, regular,
gown n dress, frock. t> c l o t h e s .
slow, steady, unhurried, unspectac-
ular. Opp SUDDEN.
grab vb appropriate, arrogate, inf bag,
capture, catch, clutch, inf collar, com- graduate vb 1 become a graduate, be
mandeer, expropriate, get hold of, successful, get a degree, pass, qualify.
grasp, hold, inf nab, pluck, seize, 2 graduate a measuring-rod. calibrate,
snap up, snatch, usurp. divide into graded sections, gradate,
mark off, mark with a scale.
grace n 1 attractiveness, beauty,
charm, ease, elegance, fluidity, grace- graft vb implant, insert, join, splice,
fulness, loveliness, poise, refinement, grain n 1 atom, bit, crumb, fleck,
softness, tastefulness. 2 God’s grace. fragment, granule, iota, jot, mite,
beneficence, benevolence, compas- molecule, morsel, mote, particle,
sion, favour, forgiveness, goodness, scrap, seed, speck, trace. 2 t> c e r e a l .
grand 176

grand adj 1 aristocratic, august, dig- hend, comprehend, inf cotton on to,
nified, eminent, glorious, great, im- follow, inf get the drift of, get the
portant, imposing, impressive, hang of, get the point of, learn, mas-
lordly, magnificent, majestic, noble, ter, realize, take in, understand,
opulent, palatial, regal, royal, splen- grasping t> GREEDY.
did, stately, sumptuous, superb. > grass n downland, field, grassland,
b ig . 2 [derog] haughty, inf high-and- green, lawn, meadow, pasture, play-
mighty, lofty, patronizing, pompous, ing-field, prairie, savannah, steppe,
posh, inf upper crust. > g r a n d io s e . poet sward, turf, veld. • vb > in f o r m .
Opp MODEST.
grate n fireplace, hearth. • vb cut,
grandiloquent adj bombastic,
grind, rasp, shred, triturate, grate
elaborate, florid, flowery, fustian,
on > ANNOY, grating > ANNOYING, h a r s h .
high-flown, inflated, melodramatic,
ornate, poetic, pompous, rhetorical, grateful adj appreciative, beholden,
turgid. > GRANDIOSE. Opp SIMPLE. gratified, indebted, obliged, thank-
grandiose adj affected, ambitious, ful. Opp UNGRATEFUL.
exaggerated, extravagant, flamboy- gratify vb delight, fulfil, indulge, pan-
ant, fnf flashy, grand, highfalutin, der to, please, satisfy.
ostentatious, overdone, inf over the
gratis adj complimentary, free,
top„ pretentious, showy. > g r a n d il o -
free of charge, gratuitous, without
q u e n t . Opp mo d e s t .
charge.
grant n allocation, allowance, an-
nuity, award, benefaction, bursary, gratitude n appreciation, grateful-
concession, contribution, donation, ness, thankfulness, thanks.
endowment, expenses, gift, honor- gratuitous adj 1 t> g r a t is . 2 gratu-
arium, investment, loan, pension, itous insults, baseless, groundless,
scholarship, sponsorship, subsidy, inappropriate, needless, unasked-for,
subvention. • vb 1 allocate, allot, uncalled-for, undeserved, unjustifi-
allow, assign, award, bestow, confer, able, unmerited, unnecessary, unpro-
donate, give, pay, provide, supply. voked, unsolicited, unwarranted. Opp
2 grant that I’m right, accede, accept, ju s t if ia b l e .
acknowledge, admit, agree, concede,
gratuity n bonus, inf perk, Fr pour-
consent, vouchsafe.
boire, present, recompense, reward,
graph n chart, column-graph, dia- tip.
gram, grid, pie chart, table.
grave adj 1 acute, critical, crucial,
graphic adj clear, descriptive, de- dangerous, important, inf life and
tailed, lifelike, lucid, photographic, death, major, momentous, perilous,
plain, realistic, representational, pressing, serious, severe, significant,
vivid, well-drawn. terminal (illness), threatening, urgent,
grapple vb clutch (at), grab, seize, vital, weighty, worrying. 2 a grave
tackle, wrestle. > g r a s p , f ig h t , grap- offence, criminal, indictable, pun-
ple with grapple with a problem. ishable. 3 a grave look, dignified,
attend to, come to grips with, con- earnest, grim, long-faced, pensive,
tend with, cope with, deal with, sedate, serious, severe, sober,
engage with, get involved with, solemn, sombre, subdued, thought-
handle, inf have a go at, manage, try ful, unsmiling. > s a d . Opp c h e e r f u l ,
to solve. t r iv ia l . • n barrow, burial-place, crypt,
grasp vb 1 catch, clasp, clutch, get inf last resting-place, mausoleum,
hold of, inf get your hands on, grab, sepulchre, tomb, tumulus, vault. >
grapple with, grip, hang on to, hold, GRAVESTONE.
inf nab, seize, snatch, take hold of. gravel n grit, pebbles, shingle,
2 grasp an idea, appreciate, appre- stones.
 177 grieve
gravestone n headstone, memor- itiveness, avarice, covetousness, cu-
ial, monument, tombstone. pidity, desire, rapacity, self-interest.
graveyard n burial-ground, cemet- > SELFISHNESS.
ery, churchyard, necropolis. greedy adj 1 famished, gluttonous,
gravity n 1 acuteness, danger, im- gormandizing, inf hoggish, hungry,
portance, magnitude, moment- insatiable, intemperate, omnivorous,
ousness, seriousness, severity, inf piggish, ravenous, self-indulgent,
significance, weightiness. 2 behave starving, voracious. Opp a b s t e mio u s .
2 greedy for wealth. acquisitive, avari-
with gravity. ceremony, dignity,
earnestness, Lat gravitas, pomp, cious, avid, covetous, desirous, eager,
reserve, sedateness, sobriety, solem- grasping, materialistic, mean, mer-
nity. 3 force ofgravity. attraction, grav- cenary, miserly, inf moneygrubbing,
itation, heaviness, ponderousness, rapacious, selfish. Opp u n s e l f is h , be
greedy > GORGE, greedy person >
pull, weight.
GLUTTON.
graze n abrasion, laceration, raw
green adj 1 grassy, greenish, leafy,
spot, scrape, scratch. > w o u n d .
verdant. ~ emerald, grass-green, jade,
grease n fat, lubrication, oil. khaki, lime, olive, pea-green, turquoise.
greasy adj 1 buttery, fatty, oily, slip- 2 IMMATURE.
pery, slithery, smeary, waxy. 2 greasy greenery n foliage, leaves, plants,
manner, fawning, flattering, fulsome, vegetation.
grovelling, ingratiating, slick, inf greet vb accost, acknowledge, ad-
smarmy, sycophantic, toadying, unc- dress, give a greeting to, hail, receive,
tuous. salute, inf say hello to, usher in, wel-
great adj 1 colossal, enormous, ex- come.
tensive, giant, gigantic, grand, huge, greeting n salutation, reception,
immense, large, massive, prodigious, welcome, greetings compliments,
inf tremendous, vast. > b ig . 2 great congratulations, felicitations, good
pain, acute, considerable, excessive, wishes, regards.
extreme, intense, marked, pro- grey adj ashen, blackish, colourless,
nounced. > s e v e r e . 3 great events, greying, grizzled, grizzly, hoary,
grand, imposing, large-scale, mo- leaden, livid, pearly, silver, silvery,
mentous, serious, significant, spec- slate-grey, smoky, sooty, whitish. t>
tacular, weighty. > impo r t a n t . 4 great GLOOMY.
music, brilliant, classic, inf fabulous,
grid n framework, grating, grille, lat-
famous, inf fantastic, fine, first-rate,
outstanding, wonderful. t> e x c e l l e n t . tice, network.
5 a great athlete, able, celebrated, dis- grief n affliction, anguish, dejection,
tinguished, eminent, gifted, notable, depression, desolation, despondency,
noted, prominent, renowned, tal- distress, heartache, heartbreak, mel-
ented, well-known. > f a mo u s . 6 a ancholy, misery, mourning, pain,
great friend, chief, close, dedicated, regret, remorse, sadness, sorrow, suf-
devoted, faithful, fast, loyal, main, fering, tragedy, unhappiness, woe,
true, valued. 7 a great reader, active, wretchedness. > pa in . Opp h a ppin e s s .
ardent, assiduous, eager, enthusias- come to grief t> f a il .
tic, frequent, habitual, keen, pas- grievance n 1 calamity, damage,
sionate, zealous. 8 t> g o o d . Opp s ma l l , hardship, harm, indignity, injuiy,
UNIMPORTANT. injustice. 2 allegation, inf bone to
greed n 1 appetite, craving, gluttony, pick, charge, complaint, inf gripe,
gormandizing, hunger, insatiability, objection.
intemperance, overeating, ravenous- grieve vb 1 afflict, cause grief,
ness, selfindulgence, voraciousness, depress, dismay, distress, hurt, pain,
voracity. 2 greed for wealth, acquis- sadden, upset, wound. Opp pl e a s e .
grim 178

2 be in mourning, feel grief, inf eat groan vb 1 ciy out, lament, moan,
your heart out, fret, lament, mope, sigh, wail, whimper, whine. 2 > c o m -
mourn, suffer, wail, weep. Opp r e - pl a in .
j o ic e . groom n 1 ostler, stable-lad, stable-
grim adj alarming, appalling, awful, man. 2 bridegroom, husband. • vb
cruel, dire, dour, dreadful, fearsome, 1 brush, clean, make neat, neaten,
fierce, forbidding, formidable, frighten- preen, smarten up, spmce up, tidy,
ing, frightful, frowning, ghastly, inf titivate. 2 groom someone for a job.
grisly, gruesome, harsh, hideous, coach, drill, educate, get ready, pre-
horrible, inf horrid, inexorable, pare, prime, train up, tutor.
inflexible, joyless, louring, menac- groove n channel, cut, fluting, fur-
ing, merciless, ominous, pitiless, row, gouge, gutter, hollow, inden-
relentless, ruthless, savage, severe, tation, mt, score, scratch, slot,
sinister, stark, stem, sullen, surly, striation, track.
terrible, threatening, unattractive,
grope vb cast about, feel about, fish,
uncompromising, unfriendly, un-
pleasant, unrelenting, unsmiling, flounder, fumble, search blindly.
unyielding. > g l o o my . Opp c h e e r f u l . gross adj 1 bloated, massive, obese,
overweight, repellent, repulsive, re-
grime' n dirt, dust, filth, grit, muck, volting. > f a t . 2 churlish, coarse,
scum, soot. crude, rude, unrefined, unsophis-
grind vb 1 abrade, comminute, ticated, vulgar. 3 gross injustice, bla-
crumble, crush, erode, granulate, tant, flagrant, glaring, manifest,
grate, mill, pound, powder, pulver- monstrous, obvious, outrageous,
ize, rasp, triturate. 2 file, polish, shameful. 4 gross income, before tax,
sand, sandpaper, scrape, sharpen, inclusive, overall, total, whole.
smooth, wear away, whet. 3 grind grotesque adj absurd, bizarre, curi-
your teeth, gnash, grate, grit, mb ous, deformed, distorted, fantastic,
together, grind away > w o r k , grind freakish, gnarled, incongruous, ludic-
down > o ppr e s s . rous, macabre, malformed, mis-
grip n clasp, clutch, grasp, handclasp, shapen, monstrous, outlandish,
hold, purchase, stranglehold. > c o n - preposterous, queer, ridiculous,
t r o l . • vb 1 clasp, clutch, get a grip of, strange, surreal, twisted, ugly, unnat-
grab, grasp, hold, seize, take hold of. ural, weird.
2 grip the imagination, absorb, compel, ground n 1 clay, dirt, earth, loam,
engage, engross, enthral, entrance, mud, soil. 2 area, land, property, sur-
fascinate, hypnotize, mesmerize, roundings, terrain. 3 campus, estate,
rivet, spellbind, come to grips with garden, park. 4 sports ground, arena,
> TACKLE. court, field, pitch, playground,
grisly adj appalling, awful, bloody, playing-field, recreation ground,
disgusting, dreadful, fearful, fright- stadium. 5 grounds for complaint.
ful, ghastly, ghoulish, goiy, grim, argument, base, basis, case, cause,
gruesome, hair-raising, hideous, excuse, evidence, foundation, justifi-
horrible, inf horrid, horrifying, cation, motive, proof, rationale, rea-
macabre, nauseating, repellent, son. • vb 1 base, establish, found, set,
repulsive, revolting, sickening, terri- settle. 2 coach, educate, instruct, pre-
ble. pare, teach, train, tutor. 3 beach, run
ashore, shipwreck, strand, wreck.
gristly adj leathery, rubbery, tough,
uneatable. groundless adj baseless, chimer-
ical, false, gratuitous, hypothetical,
gritty adj abrasive, dusty, grainy, illusory, imaginary, irrational, mo-
granular, gravelly, harsh, rasping, tiveless, needless, speculative, sup-
rough, sandy. positional, uncalled for, unfounded,
179 grumble
unjustifiable, unjustified, unproven, ish, flower, germinate, improve,
unreasonable, unsound, unsubstan- increase, lengthen, live, make pro-
tiated, unsupported, unwarranted. gress, mature, multiply, mushroom,
group n 1 [people] alliance, assem- progress, proliferate, prosper, put on
blage, assembly, association, band, growth, ripen, rise, shoot up, spread,
bevy, body, brotherhood, inf bunch, spring up, sprout, survive, swell,
cadre, cartel, caste, caucus, circle, thicken, thrive. 2 grow roses, cultivate,
clan, class, derog clique, club, cohort, farm, help along, nurture, produce,
colony, committee, community, com- propagate, raise. 3 grow older, be-
pany, conclave, congregation, con- come, get, turn.
sortium, contingent, corps, coterie, grown-up adj adult, fully-grown,
coven, crew, crowd, delegation, fac- mature, well-developed.
tion, family, federation, force, frat- growth n 1 accretion, advance,
ernity, gang, gathering, guild, horde, augmentation, broadening, bur-
host, knot, league, meeting, derog geoning, development, enlargement,
mob, multitude, number, organiza- evolution, expansion, extension,
tion, party, phalanx, picket, platoon, flowering, getting bigger, growing,
posse, derog rabble, ring, sect, derog improvement, increase, maturation,
shower, sisterhood, society, squad, maturing, progress, proliferation,
squadron, swarm, syndicate, team, prosperity, spread, success. 2 crop,
throng, troop, troupe, union, unit. harvest, plants, produce, vegetation,
2 [things, animals] accumulation, yield. 3 cancer, cyst, excrescence,
agglomeration, assemblage, assort- lump, swelling, tumour.
ment, batch, battery (guns), brood
(chicks), bunch, bundle, category, grub n 1 caterpillar, larva, maggot.
class, clump, cluster, clutch (eggs), 2 > f o o d . • vb > DIG.
collection, combination, conglomer- grudge n t> r e s e n t m e n t . • vb be-
ation, constellation, convoy, covey grudge, covet, envy, resent.
(birds), fleet, flock, gaggle (geese), grudging adj cautious, envious,
galaxy, grouping, heap, herd, hoard, guarded, half-hearted, hesitant,
host, litter, mass, pack, pile, pride jealous, reluctant, resentful, secret,
(lions), school, set, shoal (fish), species. unenthusiastic, ungracious, unkind,
3 > m u s ic ia n . • vb 1 arrange, as-
unwilling. Opp e n t h u s ia s t ic .
semble, assort, bracket together,
bring together, categorize, classify, gruelling adj arduous, backbreak-
collect, deploy, gather, herd, mar- ing, crippling, demanding, exhaust-
shal, order, organize, put together, ing, fatiguing, laborious, punishing,
set out, sort. 2 associate, band, clus- severe, stiff, strenuous, taxing, tir-
ter, come together, congregate, ing, tough, uphill, wearying. > d if f i-
crowd, flock, gather, get together, c u l t . Opp EASY.
herd, make groups, swarm, team up, gruesome adj appalling, awful,
throng. bloody, disgusting, dreadful, fearful,
grovel vb abase yourself, be humble, fearsome, frightful, ghastly, ghoul-
cower, inf crawl, inf creep, cringe, ish, gory, grim, grisly, hair-raising,
demean yourself, fawn, flatter, ingra- hideous, horrible, inf horrid, horrific,
tiate yourself, inf kowtow, inf lick horrifying, macabre, repellent, re-
someone’s boots, prostrate yourself, pugnant, revolting, shocking, sick-
snivel, inf suck up, inf toady, grovef- ening, terrible.
ling > OBSEQUIOUS. gruff adj 1 guttural, harsh, hoarse,
husky, rasping, rough, throaty. 2 >
grow vb 1 augment, become bigger,
BAD-TEMPERED.
broaden, build up, burgeon, come
to life, develop, emerge, enlarge, grumble vb inf beef, fuss, inf gripe,
evolve, expand, extend, fill out, flour- inf grouch, grouse, make a fuss, inf
guarantee 180

moan, object, protest, inf whinge. > ory, gazetteer, guidebook, handbook,
COMPLAIN. Lat vade mecum. • vb 1 conduct,
guarantee n assurance, bond, oath,
direct, escort, lead, manoeuvre, nav-
igate, pilot, shepherd, show the way,
obligation, pledge, promise, surety,
undertaking, warranty, word of hon- steer, supervise, usher. 2 advise,
our. • vb 1 assure, certify, give a brief, control, counsel, educate, give
guarantee, pledge, promise, swear, guidance to, govern, help along,
undertake, vouch, vow. 2 ensure, influence, instruct, regulate, inf take
make sure of, reserve, secure, stake by the hand, teach, train, tutor. Opp
a claim to. MISLEAD.
guard n bodyguard, inf bouncer, cus- guilt n 1 blame, blameworthiness,
todian, escort, guardian, si heavy, criminality, culpability, fault, guilti-
lookout, si minder, patrol, picket, si ness, liability, responsibility, sinful-
screw, security-guard, sentinel, sen- ness, wickedness, wrongdoing. 2 a
try, warder, watchman. • vb be on look of guilt, bad conscience, contrite-
guard over, care for, defend, keep ness, contrition, dishonour, guilty
safe, keep watch on, look after, feelings, penitence, regret, remorse,
mind; oversee, patrol, police, pre- self-accusation, self-reproach, shame,
serve,- prevent from escaping, pro- sorrow. Opp in n o c e n c e .
tect,, safeguard, secure, shelter, guiltless adj above suspicion, blame-
shield, stand guard over, supervise, less, clear, faultless, free, honourable,
tend, watch, watch over, on your immaculate, innocent, in the right,
guard > a l e r t . irreproachable, pure, sinless, untar-
guardian n 1 adoptive parent, foster- nished, untroubled, virtuous. Opp
parent. 2 champion, custodian, de- GUILTY.
fender, keeper, preserver, protector,
guilty adj 1 at fault, blameable,
trustee, warden. > g u a r d .
blameworthy, culpable, in the wrong,
guess n assumption, conjecture, liable, reprehensible, responsible. 2 a
estimate, feeling, si guesstimate, guilty look, apologetic, ashamed, con-
guesswork, hunch, hypothesis, intu- science-stricken, contrite, penitent,
ition, opinion, prediction, inf shot in inf red-faced, regretful, remorseful,
the dark, speculation, supposition, repentant, rueful, shamefaced, sheep-
surmise, suspicion, theory. • vb ish, soriy. Opp GUILTLESS, SHAMELESS.
assume, conclude, conjecture, divine,
estimate, expect, fancy, feel, have a gullible adj credulous, easily taken
hunch, have a theory, inf hazard a in, inf green, impressionable, in-
guess, hypothesize, imagine, intuit, experienced, innocent, naive, sug-
judge, make a guess, postulate, pre- gestible, trusting, unsophisticated,
dict, inf reckon, speculate, suppose, unsuspecting, unwary. Opp w a r y .
surmise, suspect, think likely, work gulp n mouthful, swallow, inf swig. •
out. vb 1 bolt down, gobble, swallow, inf
guest n 1 caller, company, visitor. wolf. > e a t . 2 inf knock back, quaff,
2 hotel guests, boarder, customer, inf swig. > d r in k . 3 gulp back tears.
lodger, patron, resident, tenant. check, choke back, stifle, suppress.
guidance n advice, briefing, coun- gumption n cleverness, inf common
selling, direction, guidelines, guid- sense, enterprise, initiative, judge-
ing, help, instruction, leadership, ment, inf nous, resourcefulness,
management, inf spoon-feeding, inf sense, wisdom.
taking by the hand, teaching, tips.
gun nplur artillery, firearm. □ airgun,
guide n 1 courier, escort, leader, nav- automatic, blunderbuss, cannon, machine-
igator, pilot. 2 adviser, counsellor, gun, mortar, musket, pistol, revolver,
director, guru, mentor. 3 atlas, direct- rifle, shot-gun, plur small arms, sub-
181 gyrate
machine-gun, tommy-gun. gun down > pleasure, relish, satisfaction, spirit,
SHOOT. verve, vigour, zest.
gunfire n cannonade, cross-fire, fir-
gut vb 1 clean, disembowel, draw,
ing, gunshots, salvo.
eviscerate, remove the guts of. 2 gut
gunman n assassin, bandit, crim- a building, clear, despoil, empty, loot,
inal, desperado, fighter, gangster, pillage, plunder, ransack, ravage,
killer, murderer, sniper, terrorist. remove the contents of, sack, strip.
gurgle vb babble, bubble, burble, rip-
ple, purl, splash. guts plur n 1 alimentary canal, belly,
bowels, entrails, inf innards, insides,
gush n burst, cascade, eruption, flood, intestines, stomach, viscera. 2 >
flow, jet, outpouring, overflow, rush, COURAGE.
spout, spurt, squirt, stream, tide, tor-
rent. • vb 1 come in a gush, cascade, gutter n channel, conduit, ditch,
flood, flow freely, overflow, pour, drain, duct, guttering, sewer, sluice,
run, rush, spout, spurt, squirt, trench, trough.
stream, well up. 2 be enthusiastic,
be sentimental, bubble over, fuss, inf gypsy n nomad, Romany, traveller,
go on, prattle on, talk on. gushing > wanderer.
EFFUSIVE, SENTIMENTAL. gyrate vb circle, pirouette, revolve,
gusto n appetite, delight, enjoyment, rotate, spin, spiral, swivel, turn, twirl,
enthusiasm, excitement, liveliness, wheel, whirl.
 H
habit n 1 convention, custom, pat- haggle vb argue, bargain, barter,
tern, policy, practice, routine, rule, discuss terms, negotiate, quibble,
usage, old use wont. 2 attitude, bent, wrangle. > q u a r r e l .
disposition, inclination, manner, hail vb 1 accost, address, call to,
mannerism, penchant, predisposi- greet, signal to. 2 > a c c l a im .
tion, proclivity, propensity, quirk, hair n 1 beard, bristles, curls, fleece,
tendency, way. 3 bad habit, addiction, fur, hank, locks, mane, inf mop,
compulsion, craving, dependence, moustache, shock, tresses, whiskers.
fixation, obsession, vice. 2 coiffure, cut, haircut, inf hair-do,
habitable adj in good repair, inhab- hairstyle, style. □ bob, braid, bun, crew-
itable, liveable, usable. Opp u n in h a b - cut, dreadlocks, fringe, Mohican, inf
it a b l e . perm, permanent wave, pigtail, plait,
habitual adj 1 accustomed, com- pony-tail, quiff, ringlets, short back and
mon, conventional, customary, sides, sideboards, sidebums, tonsure, top-
established, expected, familiar, fixed, knot. 3 false hair, hair-piece, toupee,
frequent, natural, normal, ordinary, wig.
predictable, regular, ritual, routine, hairdresser n barber, coiffeur, coif-
set, settled, standard, traditional, typ- feuse, hair-stylist.
ical, usual, old use wonted. 2 addict- hairless adj bald, bare, cleanshaven,
ive, besetting, chronic, established, naked, shaved, shaven, smooth. Opp
ineradicable, ingrained, obsessive, HAIRY.
persistent, recurrent. 3 habitual hairy adj bearded, bristly, downy,
smokers, addicted, conditioned, con- feathery, fleecy, funy, fuzzy, hirsute,
firmed, dependent, hardened, inf long-haired, shaggy, stubbly, woolly.
hooked, inveterate, persistent. Opp HAIRLESS.
hack vb carve, chop, gash, hew, man- half-hearted adj apathetic, cool,
gle, mutilate, slash. > c u t . easily distracted, feeble, indifferent,
hackneyed adj banal, cliched, ineffective, lackadaisical, listless,
cliche-ridden, commonplace, con- lukewarm, nonchalant, passive, per-
ventional, inf corny, familiar, feeble, functory, phlegmatic, uncaring,
obvious, overused, pedestrian, plati- uncommitted, unconcerned, unen-
tudinous, predictable, stale, stereo- thusiastic, unreliable, wavering,
typed, stock, threadbare, tired, trite, weak, inf wishywashy. Opp e n t h u s i -
uninspired, unoriginal. Opp n e w . a s t ic .
haggard adj inf all skin and hall n 1 auditorium, concert-hall, lec-
bone, careworn, drawn, emaciated, ture room, theatre. 2 corridor,
exhausted, gaunt, hollow-cheeked, entrance-hall, foyer, hallway, lobby,
hollow-eyed, pinched, run-down, passage, passageway, vestibule.
scraggy, scrawny, shrunken, thin, hallowed adj blessed, consecrated,
tired out, ugly, unhealthy, wasted, dedicated, holy, honoured, revered,
weary, withered, worn out, inf wor- reverenced, sacred, sacrosanct, wor-
ried to death. Opp h e a l t h y . shipped.
183 hang
hallucinate vb day-dream, dream, impede, limit, restrain, restrict,
fantasize, in/have a trip, have hallu- retard, trammel. Opp h e l p.
cinations, inf see things, see visions, handicapped adj [Some synonyms
hallucination n apparition, chi- may cause offence] autistic, bedridden,
mera, day-dream, delusion, dream, blind, crippled, deaf, disabled, disad-
fantasy, figment of the imagination, vantaged, dumb, dyslexic, incapa-
illusion, mirage, vision. > g h o s t . citated, invalid, lame, limbless,
halt n break, cessation, close, end, maimed, mute, paralysed, para-
interruption, pause, standstill, stop, plegic, retarded, slow, spastic,
stoppage, termination. • vb 1 arrest, unsighted. > il l .
block, break off, cease, check, curb, handiwork n achievement, creation,
end, impede, obstruct, stop, ter- doing, invention, production, respons-
minate. 2 come to a halt, come to ibility, work.
rest, desist, discontinue, draw up, handle n grip, haft, handgrip, helve,
pull up, quit, stop, wait. Opp s t a r t . hilt, knob, stock (of rifle). • vb
halting > h e s it a n t , ir r e g u l a r . 1 caress, feel, finger, fondle, grasp,
halve vb bisect, cut by half, cut in hold, inf maul, pat, inf paw, stroke,
half, decrease, divide into halves, touch, treat. 2 handle situations, people.
lessen, reduce by half, share equally, conduct, contend with, control, cope
split in two. with, deal with, direct, guide, look
after, manage, manipulate, tackle,
hammer n mallet, sledge-hammer. treat. > o r g a n iz e . 3 car handles well.
• vb inf bash, batter, beat, drive, manoeuvre, operate, respond, steer,
knock, pound, smash, strike. > work. 4 handle goods, deal in, do trade
DEFEAT, HIT. in, market, sell, stock, touch, traffic
hamper vb baulk, block, curb, cur- in.
tail, delay, encumber, entangle, fet- handsome adj 1 admirable, attract-
ter, foil, frustrate, handicap, hinder, ive, beautiful, comely, elegant, fair,
hold back, hold up, impede, inhibit, fine-looking, good-looking, person-
interfere with, obstruct, prevent, able, tasteful. Opp u g l y . 2 handsome
restrain, restrict, retard, shackle, gift, big, bountiful, generous, goodly,
slow down, thwart, trammel. Opp gracious, large, liberal, magnan-
HELP. imous, munificent, sizeable, un-
hand n 1 fist, si mitt, palm, inf paw. selfish, valuable. Opp m e a n .
2 hand on a dial, index, indicator, handy adj 1 convenient, easy to use,
pointer. 3 [old use] factory hands. > helpful, manageable, practical, ser-
w o r k e r . • vb convey, deliver, give, viceable, useful, well-designed, worth
offer, pass, present, submit, at hand having. 2 handy with tools, adept,
> h a n d y , give a hand > h e l p , hand capable, clever, competent, practical,
down > b e q u e a t h , hand over > s u r - proficient, skilful. 3 keep tools handy.
r e n d e r . hand round > d is t r ib u t e , lend accessible, at hand, available, close at
a hand > HELP, to hand > HANDY. hand, easy to reach, get-at-able,
handicap n 1 barrier, burden, dis- nearby, reachable, ready, to hand.
advantage, difficulty, drawback, Opp AWKWARD, INACCESSIBLE.
encumbrance, hindrance, impedi- hang vb 1 be suspended, dangle,
ment, inconvenience, limitation, inf depend, droop, flap, flop, sway,
minus, nuisance, obstacle, problem, swing, trail down. 2 hang washing.
restraint, restriction, shortcoming, attach, drape, fasten, fix, peg up, pin
stumbling-block. Opp a d v a n t a g e . up, stick up, suspend. 3 hang in the
2 defect, disability, impairment, e vb air. drift, float, hover, hang about >
be a handicap to, burden, check, d a w d l e , hang back > h e s it a t e , hang-
curb, disable, disadvantage, encum- ing > pe n d e n t , hangings i> d r a pe .
ber, hamper, hinder, hold back, hang on > WAIT, hang on to > KEEP.
 184
hank
hank n coil, length, loop, piece, skein, harangue n diatribe, exhortation,
hanker vb ache, covet, crave, desire,
lecture, inf pep talk, tirade. > s pe e c h .
fancy, inf have a yen, hunger, itch, • vb chivvy, encourage, exhort, lec-
long, pine, thirst, want, wish, yearn, ture, pontificate, preach, sermonize.
> SPEAK, TALK.
haphazard adj accidental, adven-
titious, arbitrary, casual, chance, harass vb annoy, attack, badger,
chaotic, confusing, disorderly, dis- bait, bother, chivvy, disturb, harry,
organized, fortuitous, inf higgledy- inf hassle, hound, irritate, molest,
piggledy, inf hit-or-miss, illogical, nag, persecute, pester, inf pick on,
irrational, random, serendipitous, inf plague, torment, trouble, vex,
unforeseen, unplanned, unstruc- worry.
tured, unsystematic. Opp o r d e r l y . harassed adj inf at the end of your
happen vb arise, befall, old use betide, tether, careworn, distraught, dis-
chance, come about, crop up, tressed, exhausted, frayed, pres-
emerge, follow, materialize, occur, sured, strained, stressed, tired,
result, take place, inf transpire, inf weary, worn out.
turn out. happen on > f in d . harbour n anchorage, dock, haven,
happening n accident, affair, jetty, landing-stage, marina, moor-
chance, circumstance, episode, ing, pier, port, quay, safe haven, shel-
event, incident, occasion, occurrence, ter, wharf. • vb 1 conceal, give
phenomenon. asylum to, give refuge to, give sanc-
happiness n bliss, cheer, cheerful- tuary to, hide, protect, shelter, shield.
ness, contentment, delight, ecstasy, 2 harbour a grudge, cherish, cling on
elation, enjoyment, euphoria, exhil- to, hold on to, keep in mind, main-
aration, exuberance, felicity, gaiety, tain, nurse, nurture, retain.
gladness, glee, inf heaven, high hard adj 1 adamantine, compact,
spirits, joy, joyfulness, joyousness, compressed, dense, firm, flinty,
jubilation, light-heartedness, merri- frozen, hardened, impenetrable,
ment, pleasure, pride, rapture, well- impervious, inflexible, rigid, rocky,
being. Opp SADNESS. solid, solidified, steely, stiff, stony,
happy adj 1 beatific, blessed, blissful, unbreakable, unyielding. 2 hard
poet blithe, buoyant, cheerful, cheery, labour, arduous, back-breaking,
contented, delighted, ecstatic, elated, exhausting, fatiguing, formidable,
enraptured, euphoric, exhilarated, gruelling, harsh, heavy, laborious,
exuberant, exultant, felicitous, onerous, rigorous, severe, stiff, stren-
festive, gay, glad, gleeful, good- uous, taxing, tiring, tough, uphill,
humoured, gratified, grinning, wearying. 3 a hard problem, baffling,
halcyon {days), inf heavenly, high- complex, complicated, confusing, dif-
spirited, idyllic, jocose, jocular, ficult, enigmatic, insoluble, intricate,
jocund, joking, jolly, jovial, joyfid, involved, knotty, perplexing, puzz-
joyous, jubilant, laughing, light- ling, tangled, inf thorny. 4 a hard
hearted, lively, merry, inf on top of heart, callous, cold, cruel, inf hard-
the world, overjoyed, inf over the boiled, hard-hearted, harsh, heart-
moon, pleased, proud, radiant, rap- less, hostile, inflexible, intolerant,
turous, rejoicing, relaxed, satisfied, merciless, obdurate, pitiless, ruth-
smiling, inf starry-eyed, sunny, less, severe, stern, strict, unbending,
thrilled, triumphant. Opp s a d . 2 a unfeeling, unfriendly, unkind. 5 a
happy accident, advantageous, appro- hard blow, forceful, heavy, powerful,
priate, apt, auspicious, beneficial, strong, violent. 6 hard times, austere,
convenient, favourable, felicitous, bad, calamitous, disagreeable, dis-
fortuitous, fortunate, lucky, oppor- tressing, grim, intolerable, painful,
tune, propitious, timely, welcome, unhappy, unpleasant. 7 a hard, worker.
well-timed. assiduous, conscientious, devoted,
185 hash
indefatigable, industrious, keen, per- tuneful. Opp d is c o r d a n t . 2 a harmo-
sistent, unflagging, untiring, zeal- nious meeting, agreeable, amicable,
ous. Opp e a s y , s o f t , hard-headed > compatible, congenial, congruous,
b u s in e s s l ik e , hard-hearted > c r u e l . cooperative, friendly, integrated, like-
hard up > po o r , hard-wearing > minded, sympathetic.
DURABLE. harmonize vb agree, balance, be
harden vb bake, cake, clot, coagu- in harmony, blend, cooperate, co-
late, congeal, freeze, gel, jell, ossify, ordinate, correspond, go together,
petrify, reinforce, set, solidify, stiffen, match, suit each other, tally, tone in.
strengthen, toughen. Opp s o f t e n . harmony n 1 assonance, concord,
hardly adv barely, faintly, only just, consonance, euphony, tunefulness.
rarely, scarcely, seldom, with diffi- 2 accord, agreement, amity, balance,
culty. compatibility, conformity, congru-
hardship n adversity, affliction, aus- ence, cooperation, friendliness, good-
terity, bad luck, deprivation, destitu- will, like-mindedness, peace, rapport,
tion, difficulty, distress, misery, sympathy, togetherness, under-
misfortune, need, privation, suffer- standing. Opp DISCORD.
ing, inf trials and tribulations, harness n equipment, inf gear,
trouble, unhappiness, want. straps, tackle. • vb control, domes-
hardware n equipment, imple- ticate, exploit, keep under control,
ments, instruments, ironmongery, make use of, mobilize, tame, use,
machinery, tools. utilize.
hardy adj 1 durable, fit, healthy, harsh adj 1 abrasive, bristly, coarse,
hearty, resilient, robust, rugged, hairy, rough, scratchy. 2 harsh sounds.
strong, sturdy, tough, vigorous. Opp cacophonous, croaking, croaky, dis-
TENDER. 2 > BOLD. agreeable, discordant, dissonant,
grating, gravelly, grinding, gruff, gut-
harm n abuse, damage, detriment, tural, hoarse, husky, irritating, jar-
disadvantage, disservice, havoc, hurt, ring, rasping, raucous, rough,
inconvenience, injury, loss, mischief, screeching, shrill, squawking, ster-
misfortune, pain, unhappiness, inf torous, strident, unpleasant. 3 harsh
upset, wrong. > e v il . • vb abuse, be colours, light, bright, brilliant, daz-
harmful to, damage, hurt, ill-treat, zling, gaudy, glaring, lurid. 4 harsh
impair, injure, maltreat, misuse, smell, acrid, bitter, sour, unpleasant.
ruin, spoil, wound. Opp b e n e f it . 5 harsh conditions, arduous, austere,
harmful adj addictive, bad, baleful, comfortless, difficult, hard, severe,
damaging, dangerous, deadly, dele- stressful, tough. 6 harsh criticism,
terious, destructive, detrimental, dis- treatment, abusive, acerbic, bitter,
advantageous, evil, fatal, hurtful, blunt, brutal, cruel, Draconian,
injurious, lethal, malign, negative, frank, hard-hearted, hurtful, impol-
noxious, pernicious, poisonous, pre- ite, merciless, outspoken, pitiless,
judicial, ruinous, unfavourable, severe, sharp, stern, strict, uncivil,
unhealthy, unpleasant, unwhole- unforgiving, unkind, unrelenting,
some. Opp b e n e f ic ia l , h a r ml e s s . unsympathetic, untempered. Opp
harmless adj acceptable, benign, GENTLE.
gentle, innocent, innocuous, inof- harvest n crop, gathering-in, pro-
fensive, mild, non-addictive, non- duce, reaping, return, yield. • vb
toxic, safe, tame, unobjectionable. bring in, collect, garner, gather,
Opp HARMFUL. glean, mow, pick, reap, take in.
harmonious adj 1 concordant, con- hash n 1 goulash, stew. 2 inf botch,
sonant, inf easy on the ear, eupho- confusion, farrago, inf hotchpotch,
nious, harmonizing, melodious, jumble, mess, inf mishmash, mix-
musical, sweet-sounding, tonal, ture. make a hash of > b u n g l e .
hassle 186

hassle n altercation, argument, nant, repulsive, revolting, vile. > e v il .

bother, confusion, difficulty, dis- Opp LOVABLE.
agreement, disturbance, fighting, hatred n abhorrence, animosity,
fuss, harassment, inconvenience, antagonism, antipathy, aversion,
making difficulties, nuisance, perse- contempt, detestation, dislike, en-
cution, problem, struggle, trouble, mity, execration, hate, hostility,
upset. • vb > HARASS, QUARREL. ill-will, intolerance, loathing, misan-
haste n dispatch, hurry, impetuosity, thropy, odium, repugnance, revul-
precipitateness, quickness, rashness, sion. Opp LOVE.
recklessness, rush, urgency. > s pe e d . haughty adj arrogant, boastful,
hasty adj 1 abrupt, fast, foolhardy, bumptious, cavalier, inf cocky, con-
headlong, hot-headed, hurried, ill- ceited, condescending, disdainful,
considered, immediate, impetuous, egotistical, inf highand-mighty, inf
impulsive, incautious, instantan- hoity-toity, imperious, lofty, lordly,
eous, inf pell-mell, precipitate, quick, offhand, patronizing, pompous, pre-
rapid, rash, reckless, speedy, sud- sumptuous, pretentious, proud, self-
den, summary (justice), swift. 2 hasty admiring, self-important, smug,
work.-brief, careless, cursory, hur- snobbish, inf snooty, inf stuck-up,
ried, ' illconsidered, perfunctory, supercilious, superior, inf uppish,
rushed, short, slapdash, superficial, vain. Opp m o d e s t .
thoughtless, unthinking. Opp c a r e f u l , haul vb carry, cart, convey, drag,
sl ow. draw, heave, inf lug, move, pull, tow,
trail, transport, tug.
hat n head-dress. □ Balaclava, bearskin,
beret, biretta, boater, bonnet, bowler, haunt vb 1 frequent, infhang around,
busby, cap, coronet, crash-helmet, crown, keep returning to, loiter about,
deerstalker, diadem, fez, fillet, headband, patronize, spend time at, visit
helmet, hood, mitre, skullcap, sombrero, regularly. 2 haunt the mind, beset,
sou’wester, stetson, sun-hat, tiara, top linger in, obsess, plague, prey on,
hat, toque, trilby, turban, wig, wimple, torment.
yarmulke. have vb 1 be in possession of, keep,
hatch vb 1 brood, incubate. 2 con- maintain, own, possess, use, utilize.
2 house has six rooms, comprise, con-
ceive, concoct, contrive, inf cook up,
design, devise, inf dream up, formu- sist of, contain, embody, hold,
late, invent, plan, plot, scheme, think include, incorporate, involve. 3 have
fun, illness, be subject to, endure,
up.
enjoy, experience, feel, go through,
hate n 1 i> h a t r e d . 2 a pet hate, abom- know, five through, put up with, suf-
ination, aversion, Fr bete noire, dis- fer, tolerate, undergo. 4 have presents.
like, loathing. • vb abhor, abominate, accept, acquire, be given, gain, get,
be averse to, be hostile to, be revolted obtain, procure, receive. 5 thieves had
by, inf can’t bear, inf can’t stand, the lot. inf get away with, remove,
deplore, despise, detest, dislike, ex- retain, secure, steal, take. 6 have a
ecrate, fear, find intolerable, loathe, snack, consume, eat, drink, partake
object to, recoil from, resent, scorn, of, swallow. 7 have a party, arrange,
shudder at. Opp l ik e , l o v e . hold, organize, prepare, set up.
hateful adj abhorred, abhorrent, 8 have guests, be host to, cater for,
abominable, accursed, awful, con- entertain, put up. have on > h o a x .
temptible, cursed, inf damnable, have to be compelled to, be forced
despicable, detestable, disgusting, to, have an obligation to, must, need
distasteful, execrable, foul, hated, to, ought to, should, have up >
heinous, horrible, inf horrid, loath- ARREST.
some, nasty, nauseating, obnoxious, haven n asylum, refuge, retreat,
odious, offensive, repellent, repug- safety, sanctuary, shelter. > h a r b o u r .
 187
hearty
havoc n carnage, chaos, confusion, health n 1 condition, constitution,
damage, desolation, destruction, dev- fettle, form, shape, trim. 2 the picture
astation, disorder, disruption, inf of health, fitness, robustness, sound-
mayhem, in/rack and ruin, ruin, inf ness, strength, vigour, well-being.
shambles, upset, waste, wreckage.
healthy adj 1 active, blooming, fine,
hazard n chance, danger, jeopardy, fit, flourishing, good, inf hale-and-
peril, risk, threat. • vb dare, gamble, hearty, hearty, in/in fine fettle, in
jeopardize, risk, stake, take a chance good shape, lively, perky, robust,
with, venture. sound, strong, sturdy, vigorous, well.
hazardous adj chancy, dangerous,
2 bracing, health-giving, hygienic,
inf dicey, fraught with danger, par- invigorating, salubrious, sanitary,
lous, perilous, precarious, risky, inf wholesome. Opp il l , u n h e a l t h y .
ticklish, in/tricky, uncertain, unpre- heap n accumulation, assemblage,
dictable, unsafe. Opp s a f e . bank, collection, hill, hoard, mass,
mound, mountain, pile, stack. • vb
haze n cloud, film, fog, mist, steam,
accumulate, amass, bank up, collect,
vapour. gather, hoard, mass, pile, stack,
hazy adj 1 blurred, blurry, clouded, stockpile, store, heaps t> pl e n t y .
cloudy, dim, faint, foggy, fuzzy, hear vb 1 attend to, catch, old use
indefinite, milky, misty, obscure, hearken to, heed, listen to, overhear,
unclear. 2 t> v a g u e . Opp c l e a r . pay attention to, pick up. 2 hear evid-
head adj t> c h ie f . • n 1 brain, cra- ence. examine, investigate, judge, try.
nium, skull. 2 head for figures, ability, 3 hear news, be told, discover, find
brains, capacity, imagination, intel- out, gather, get, inf get wind of,
ligence, intellect, mind, understand- learn, receive.
ing. 3 head of a mountain, apex, hearing n case, inquest, inquiry,
crown, highest point, peak, summit, trial.
top, vertex. 4 boss, director, em-
ployer, leader, manager, ruler. t> c h ie f . heart n 1 si ticker. 2 centre, core,
crux, essence, focus, hub, inside, ker-
5 head of a school, headmaster, head-
mistress, head teacher, principal. nel, marrow, middle, si nitty-gritty,
nub, nucleus, pith. 3 affection, com-
6 head of a river. t> s o u r c e . • vb 1 be
passion, concern, courage, feeling,
in charge of, command, control,
direct, govern, guide, lead, manage, goodness, humanity, kindness, love,,
pity, sensitivity, sympathy, tender-
rule, run, superintend, supervise.
ness, understanding, warmth.
2 head for home, aim, go, make,
inf make a beeline, point, set out, heartbreaking adj bitter, distress-
start, steer, turn, head off t> d e f l e c t . ing, grievous, heart-rending, pitiful,
lose your head t> pa n ic , off your tragic.
head ma d . heartbroken adj broken-hearted,
heading n caption, headline, rubric, dejected, desolate, despairing, dispir-
title. ited, grieved, inconsolable, miser-
able, in/shattered. t> s a d .
headquarters n administration,
base, depot, head office, in/HQ, main hearten vb boost, cheer up, encour-
office, in/nerve-centre. age, strengthen, uplift.
heartless adj callous, cold, icy, inhu-
heal vb 1 become healthy, get better,
improve, knit, mend, recover, recu- man, pitiless, ruthless, steely, stony,
perate, unite. 2 cure, make better, unconcerned, unemotional, unkind,
minister to, nurse, rejuvenate, rem- unsympathetic. t> c r u e l .
edy, renew, restore, revitalize, tend, hearty adj 1 enthusiastic, exuberant,
treat. 3 heal differences, patch up, put friendly, genuine, healthy, heartfelt,
right, reconcile, repair, settle. lively, positive, robust, sincere, spir-
heat 188

ited, strong, vigorous, warm. Opp profuse, thick. 5 a heavy heart, bur-
h a l f -h e a r t e d . 2 a hearty dinner. > b ig . dened, depressed, gloomy, miserable,
sorrowful. > s a d . 6 [infl a heavy lecture.
heat n 1 calorific value, fever, fier-
deep, dull, intellectual, intense, ser-
iness, glow, hotness, incandescence,
ious, tedious, wearisome. Opp l ig h t .
warmth. 2 closeness, heat-wave, high
heavy-handed > c l u ms y , heavy-
temperature, hot weather, humidity,
hearted > SAD.
sultriness, torridity, warmth. 3 heat of
the moment, anger, ardour, eagerness, hectic adj animated, boisterous,
enthusiasm, excitement, fervour, brisk, bustling, busy, chaotic, excited,
feverishness, fury, impetuosity, viol- feverish, frantic, frenetic, frenzied,
ence. > pa s s io n . Opp c o l d . • vb bake, hurried, hyperactive, lively, mad,
blister, boil, bum, cook, inf frizzle, overactive, restless, riotous, rum-
fry, grill, inflame, make hot, melt, bustious, inf rushed off your feet, tur-
reheat, roast, scald, scorch, simmer, bulent, Wild. Opp LEISURELY.
sizzle, smoulder, steam, stew, swel- hedge n barrier, fence, hedgerow,
ter, toast, warm. Opp c o o l , heated > screen. • vb inf beat about the bush,
FERVENT, HOT. be evasive, equivocate, inf hum and
heathn common land, moor, moor- haw, quibble, stall, temporize, waffle,
land, ' open country, waste land, hedge in > e n c l o s e .
wilderness. hedonistic adj epicurean, extravag-
heathen adj atheistic, barbaric, god- ant, intemperate, luxurious, plea-
less, idolatrous, infidel, irreligious, sure-loving, self-indulgent, sensual,
pagan, philistine, savage, unenlight- sybaritic, voluptuous. Opp pu r it a n ic a l .
ened. • n atheist, barbarian, heretic, heed vb attend to, bear in mind, con-
idolater, infidel, pagan, philistine, cern yourself about, consider, follow,
savage, sceptic, unbeliever. keep to, listen to, mark, mind, note,
heave vb 1 drag, draw, haul, hoist, notice, obey, observe, pay attention
lift, lug, move, pull, raise, tow, tug. to, regard, take notice of. Opp d is -
2 > t h r o w , heave into sight > r eg a r d .
a ppe a r , heave up > v o m it . heedful adj attentive, careful, con-
heaven n 1 after-life, Elysium, cerned, considerate, mindful, ob-
eternal rest, the hereafter, the next servant, sympathetic, taking notice,
world, nirvana, paradise. 2 bliss, con- vigilant, watchful. Opp h e e d l e s s .
tentment, delight, ecstasy, felicity, heedless adj blind, careless, deaf,
happiness, joy, perfection, pleasure, inattentive, inconsiderate, neglect-
rapture, Utopia. Opp h e l l . ful, oblivious, reckless, regardless,
heavenly adj angelic, beatific, beau-
thoughtless, uncaring, unconcerned,
tiful, blissful, celestial, delightful, unmindful, unobservant, unsym-
divine, exquisite, glorious, lovely, pathetic. Opp HEEDFUL.
other-worldly, inf out of this world, heel vb careen, incline, lean, list, tilt,
saintly, spiritual, sublime, unearthly, tip.
wonderful. hefty adj beefy, brawny, bulky, burly,
heavy adj 1 bulky, burdensome, heavy, heavyweight, hulking, husky,
compact, concentrated, dense, hefty, large, massive, mighty, muscular,
immovable, large, leaden, massive, powerful, robust, rugged, solid, sub-
ponderous, unwieldy, weighty. > b ig , stantial, inf strapping, strong, tough.
f a t . 2 heavy work, arduous, demand- > BIG. Opp SLIGHT.
ing, difficult, hard, exhausting, la- height n 1 altitude, elevation, level,
borious, onerous, strenuous, tough. tallness, vertical measurement.
3 heavy rain, penetrating, pervasive, 2 crag, fell, hill, mound, mountain,
severe, torrential. 4 a heavy crop. peak, prominence, ridge, summit,
abundant, copious, laden, loaded, top. 3 height of your career, acme,
 189
hero
apogee, climax, crest, culmination, helping adj t> h e l pf u l . • n amount, inf
extreme, high point, maximum, dollop, plateful, portion, ration, serv-
peak, pinnacle, zenith. ing, share.
heighten vb add to, amplify, aug- helpless adj abandoned, crippled,
ment, boost, build up, elevate, defenceless, dependent, deserted,
enhance, improve, increase, intens- destitute, disabled, exposed, feeble,
ify, lift up, magnify, make higher, handicapped, impotent, incapable,
maximize, raise, reinforce, sharpen, in difficulties, infirm, lame,
strengthen, supplement. Opp l o w e r , marooned, powerless, stranded,
REDUCE. unprotected, vulnerable. Opp in d e -
hell n 1 eternal punishment, Hades, pe n d e n t .
infernal regions, lower regions, herald n 1 announcer, courier,
nether world, si the other place, messenger, town crier. 2 herald of
underworld. 2 t> mis e r y . Opp h e a v e n . spring, forerunner, harbinger, omen,
help n advice, aid, assistance, avail, precursor, sign. • vb advertise,
backing, benefit, boost, collabora- announce, indicate, make known,
tion, contribution, cooperation, proclaim, promise, publicize. t> f o r e -
encouragement, friendship, guid- t el l .
ance, moral support, patronage, herd n bunch, flock, mob, pack, swarm,
relief, remedy, succour, support. Opp throng. t> g r o u p . • vb assemble, col-
h in d r a n c e . • vb 1 abet, advise, aid, aid lect, congregate, drive, gather, group
and abet, assist, back, befriend, be together, round up, shepherd.
helpful, boost, collaborate, con-
hereditary adj 1 ancestral, be-
tribute, co-operate, encourage, facil-
queathed, family, handed down,
itate, forward, further the interests
of, in/give a hand, inf lend a hand, inherited, passed down, passed on,
profit, promote, prop up, inf rally willed. 2 congenital, constitutional,
round, serve, side with, derog spoon- genetic, inborn, inbred, inherent,
inheritable, innate, native, natural,
feed, stand by, subsidize, succour,
transmissible, transmittable.
support, take pity on. Opp h in d e r .
2 linctus helps a cough, alleviate, be- heresy n blasphemy, dissent, idol-
nefit, cure, ease, improve, lessen, atry, nonconformity, rebellion, inf
make easier, relieve, remedy. 3 can’t stepping out of line, unorthodox
help it. t> a v o id , pr e v e n t . ideas.
helper n abettor, accessory, accom- heretic n apostate, blasphemer,
plice, ally, assistant, associate, col- dissenter, free-thinker, iconoclast,
laborator, colleague, confederate, nonconformist, rebel, renegade,
deputy, helpmate, inf henchman, unorthodox thinker. Opp b e l ie v e r .
partner, inf right-hand man, second, heretical adj apostate, atheistic,
supporter, in/willing hands. blasphemous, dissenting, freethink-
helpful adj 1 accommodating, ing, heathen, iconoclastic, idolatrous,
benevolent, caring, considerate, con- impious, irreligious, nonconformist,
structive, cooperative, favourable, pagan, rebellious, unorthodox. Opp
friendly, helping, kind, neighbourly, ORTHODOX.
obliging, practical, supportive, sym- heritage n birthright, culture, his-
pathetic, thoughtful, willing. 2 a help- tory, inheritance, legacy, past, tradi-
ful comment, advantageous, beneficial, tion.
informative, instructive, profitable,
useful, valuable, worthwhile. 3 a help- hermit n anchoress, anchorite,
ful tool, convenient, easy to use, eremite, monk, recluse, solitary.
handy, manageable, practical, ser- hero, heroine ns champion, con-
viceable, useful, well designed, worth queror, daredevil, exemplar, ideal,
having. Opp u n h e l pf u l , u s e l e s s . idol, luminary, protagonist, star,
heroic 190

superman, inf superstar, super- cover. 3 hide facts, censor, inf hush
woman, victor, winner. up, repress, silence, suppress, with-
heroic adj adventurous, audacious, hold.
bold, brave, chivalrous, courageous, hideous adj appalling, beastly, dis-
daring, dauntless, doughty, epic, gusting, dreadful, frightful, ghastly,
fearless, gallant, herculean, intrepid, grim, grisly, grotesque, gruesome,
lion-hearted, noble, selfless, staunch, macabre, nauseous, odious, repel-
steadfast, stout-hearted, super- lent, repulsive, revolting, shocking,
human, unafraid, valiant, valorous. sickening, terrible. > u g l y . Opp b e a u -
Opp COWARDLY. t if u l .
hesitant adj cautious, diffident, hiding-place n den, haven, hide,
dithering, faltering, halfhearted, hideaway, inf hide-out, inf hideyhole,
halting, hesitating, indecisive, irres- lair, refuge, retreat, sanctuary.
olute, nervous, inf shillyshallying, hierarchy n grading, ladder, inf
shy, stammering, stumbling, stut- pecking-order, ranking, scale,
tering, tentative, timid, uncertain, sequence, series, social order, sys-
uncommitted, undecided, undercon- tem.
fident,- unsure, vacillating, wary,
wavering. Opp d e c is iv e , f l u e n t . high adj 1 elevated, extending
upwards, high-rise, lofty, raised, soar-
hesitate vb 1 be hesitant, be in-
ing, tall, towering. 2 aristocratic,
decisive, inf be in two minds, delay,
chief, distinguished, eminent,
demur, inf dilly-dally, dither, equi- exalted, important, leading, power-
vocate, falter, halt, hang back,
ful, prominent, royal, top, upper.
haver, inf hum and haw, pause, put it
3 high prices, dear, excessive, ex-
off, inf shilly-shally, shrink back,
orbitant, expensive, extravagant,
teeter, temporize, think twice, vacil-
outrageous, inf steep, unreasonable.
late, wait, waver. 2 stammer, stum-
4 high winds, exceptional, extreme,
ble, stutter.
great, intense, inf stiff, stormy,
hesitation n caution, delay, diffid- strong. 5 a high reputation, favourable,
ence, dithering, doubt, indecision, good, noble, respected, virtuous.
irresolution, nervousness, reluct- 6 high sounds, acute, high-pitched,
ance, inf shilly-shallying, uncertainty, penetrating, piercing, sharp, shrill,
vacillation, wavering. soprano, squeaky, treble. Opp
hidden adj 1 camouflaged, con- Low.high-and-mighty > a r r o g a n t .
cealed, covered, disguised, enclosed, high-class i> e x c e l l e n t , high-handed
invisible, obscured, out of sight, pri- > ARROGANT, high-minded > MORAL,
vate, shrouded, inf under wraps, high-powered > POWERFUL, high-
undetectable, unnoticeable, unseen, speed > f a s t , high-spirited > l iv e l y .
veiled. Opp v is ib l e . 2 hidden mean- highbrow adj 1 academic, bookish,
ing. abstruse, arcane, coded, covert, brainy, cultured, intellectual, derog
ciyptic, dark, esoteric, implicit, mys- pretentious, sophisticated. 2 highbrow
terious, mystical, obscure, occult, books, classical, cultural, deep, diffi-
recondite, secret, unclear. Opp o b v i - cult, educational, improving, serious.
o u s. Opp LOWBROW.
hide n fur, leather, pelt, skin. • vb
highlight n best moment, climax,
1 blot out, buiy, camouflage, cloak,
high spot, peak, top point.
conceal, cover, curtain, disguise,
eclipse, enclose, mantle, mask, hilarious adj boisterous, cheerful,
obscure, put away, put out of sight, cheering, entertaining, jolly, jovial,
screen, secrete, shelter, shroud, veil, lively, merry, mirthful, rollicking,
wrap up. 2 go into hiding, inf go to side-splitting, uproarious. > f u n n y .
ground, inf hole up, keep hidden, inf hill n 1 elevation, eminence, foothill,
He low, lurk, shut yourself away, take height, hillock, hillside, hummock,
 191
hoaxer
knoll, mound, mount, mountain, chronicles, diaries, narratives,
peak, prominence, ridge, summit. records.
□ brae, down, fell, pike, stack, tor, wold. histrionic adj actorish, dramatic,
2 acclivity, ascent, declivity, drop, theatrical.
gradient, incline, ramp, rise, slope.
hit n 1 blow, bull’s eye, collision,
hinder vb arrest, bar, be a hindrance impact, shot, stroke. 2 success, tri-
to, check, curb, delay, deter, en- umph, inf winner. • vb 1 bang, bash,
danger, frustrate, get in the way of, baste, batter, beat, belt, biff, birch,
hamper, handicap, hit, hold back, box, bludgeon, buffet, bump, butt,
hold up, impede, keep back, limit, cane, cannon into, clap, clip, clob-
obstruct, oppose, prevent, restrain, ber, clock, clonk, clout, club, collide
restrict, retard, sabotage, slow down, with, cosh, crack, crash into, cudgel,
slow up, stand in the way of, stop, cuff, dash, deliver a blow, drive,
thwart. Opp h e l p . elbow, flagellate, flail, flick, flip, flog,
hindrance n bar, barrier, burden, hammer, head, head-butt, impact,
check, curb, deterrent, difficulty, dis- jab, jar, jog, kick, knee, knock, lam,
advantage, inf drag, drawback, lambaste, lash, nudge, pat, poke,
encumbrance, handicap, hitch, pound, prod, pummel, punch, punt,
impediment, inconvenience, limita- putt, ram, rap, run into, scourge,
tion, obstacle, obstruction, restraint, slam, slap, slog, slosh, slug, smack,
restriction, snag, stumbling-block. smash, smite, sock, spank, stab,
Opp HELP. strike, stub, swat, swipe, tan, tap,
thrash, thump, thwack, wallop,
hinge n articulation, joint, pivot. • vb whack, wham, whip. 2 The slump hit
depend, hang, rest, revolve, turn. sales, affect, attack, bring disaster to,
hint n 1 allusion, clue, idea, implica- check, damage, do harm to, harm,
tion, indication, inkling, innuendo, have an effect on, hinder, hurt, make
insinuation, pointer, shadow, sign, suffer, ruin, hit back > r e t a l ia t e , hit
suggestion, tip, inf tip-off. 2 a hint of on > DISCOVER.
herbs, dash, taste, tinge, touch, trace, hoard n accumulation, cache, collec-
undertone, whiff. • vb allude, give a tion, fund, heap, pile, reserve, stock-
hint, imply, indicate, insinuate, in- pile, store, supply, treasure-trove.
timate, mention, suggest, tip off. • vb accumulate, amass, assemble,
hire vb book, charter, employ, collect, gather, keep, lay in, lay up,
engage, lease, pay for the use of, mass, pile up, put away, put by, save,
rent, sign on, take on. hire out lease stockpile, store, treasure. Opp s q u a n -
out, let, rent out, take payment for. d e r , USE.

hiss vb buzz, fizz, purr, rustle, sizzle, hoarse adj croaking, grating, grav-
whir, whizz. elly, growling, gruff, harsh, husky,
rasping, raucous, rough, throaty.
historic adj celebrated, eminent,
hoax n cheat, inf con, confidence
epoch-making, famed, famous,
trick, deception, fake, fraud, hum-
important, momentous, notable, out-
bug, imposture, joke, inf leg-pull,
standing, remarkable, renowned, practical joke, spoof, swindle, trick.
significant, well-known. Opp in s ig - • vb bluff, cheat, inf con, cozen,
n if ic a n t .
deceive, defraud, delude, dupe, fool,
historical adj actual, authentic, gull, injhave on, hoodwink, lead on,
documented, factual, real, real-life, mislead, inf pull someone’s leg,
recorded, true, verifiable. Opp f ic t i- swindle, inf take for a ride, take in,
t io u s . trick. > TEASE.
history n 1 antiquity, bygone days, hoaxer n inf con-man, impostor,
heritage, historical events, the old joker, practical joker, trickster.
days, the past. 2 annals, biography, > CHEAT.
hobble 192

hobble vb dodder, falter, limp, hollow adj 1 empty, unfilled, vacant,

shuffle, stagger, stumble, totter. void. 2 cavernous, concave, deep,
> WALK. depressed, dimpled, indented,
hobby n amateur interest, avocation, recessed, sunken. 3 a hollow laugh,
diversion, interest, pastime, pursuit, victory, cynical, false, futile, insincere,
recreation, relaxation, sideline. insubstantial, meaningless, point-
less, valueless, worthless. • n bowl,
hoist n block-and-tackle, crane, davit,
cave, cavern, cavity, concavity, crater,
jack, lift, pulley, tackle, winch, wind- dent, depression, dimple, dint, dip,
lass. • vb elevate, heave, lift, pull up,
dish, excavation, furrow, hole, in-
raise, winch up. dentation, pit, trough. > VALLEY,
hold n 1 clasp, clutch, foothold, hollow OUt > EXCAVATE.
grasp, grip, purchase, toehold. 2 a
hold over someone, ascendancy, author- holocaust n 1 conflagration,
ity, control, dominance, influence, firestorm, inferno. 2 annihilation,
leverage, mastery, power, sway. • vb bloodbath, destruction, devastation,
1 bear, cariy, catch, clasp, clench, extermination, genocide, massacre,
cling to, clutch, cradle, embrace, pogrom.
enfold, grasp, grip, hang on to, have, holy adj 1 blessed, consecrated, ded-
hug, kefep, possess, retain, seize, sup- icated, devoted, divine, hallowed,
port, take. 2 hold a suspect, arrest, con- heavenly, revered, sacred, sacrosanct,
fine, coop up, detain, imprison, keep venerable. 2 holy pilgrims, devout,
in custody, restrain. 3 hold an opinion. faithful,.God-fearing, godly, immacu-
believe in, stick to, subscribe to, late, derog pietistic, pious, prayerful,
swear to. 4 hold a pose, continue, keep pure, religious, reverent, reverential,
up, maintain, occupy, preserve, righteous, saintly, derog sanctimo-
retain, sustain. 5 hold a party, cel- nious, sinless, unsullied. Opp ir r e l i -
ebrate, conduct, convene, have, or- g io u s .
ganize. 6 jug holds a litre, contain,
home n 1 abode, accommodation,
enclose, have a capacity of, include.
7 My offer holds, be unaltered, carry
base, domicile, dwelling, dwelling-
on, continue, endure, hold out, keep place, habitation, household, lodg-
on, last, persist, remain unchanged, ing, quarters, residence. > h o u s e .
2 birthplace, native land. 3 derog
stay, hold back > r e s t r a in , hold forth
> SPEAK, TALK, hold out > OFFER, PERSIST, institution. □ old use almshouse, con-
hold over, hold up > d e l a y , hold-up
valescent home, hospice, nursing-home,
> ROBBERY. old use poorhouse, rest home, retirement
home, retreat, shelter.
hole n 1 abyss, burrow, cave, cavern,
cavity, chamber, chasm, crater, dent, homeless adj abandoned, destitute,
depression, excavation, fault, fissure, dispossessed, down-and-out, evicted,
hollow, indentation, niche, pit, exiled, forsaken, itinerant, nomadic,
pocket, pot-hole, recess, shaft, tun- outcast, rootless, unhoused, vagrant,
nel. 2 aperture, breach, break, chink, wandering. • plur n beggars,
crack, cut, eyelet, fissure, gap, gash, refugees, tramps, vagabonds, va-
leak, opening, orifice, perforation, grants.
puncture, rip, slit, slot, split, tear, vent, homely adj comfortable, congenial,
holiday n bank holiday, break, day cosy, easygoing, friendly, informal,
off, furlough, half-term, leave, recess, intimate, modest, natural, relaxed,
respite, rest, sabbatical, time off, simple, unaffected, unassuming,
vacation. unpretentious, unsophisticated.
holiness n devotion, divinity, faith, > FAMILIAR. Opp FORMAL, SOPHISTICATED.
godliness, piety, derog religiosity, homogeneous adj akin, alike, com-
sacredness, saintliness, derog sancti- parable, compatible, consistent, iden-
moniousness, sanctity, venerability. tical, indistinguishable, matching,
193
hopeless
similar, uniform, unvarying. Opp d if - worthy, trusty, upright, venerable,
f er en t . virtuous, worthy. > h o n e s t . Opp d is -
homosexual adj inf camp, gay, les- h o n o u r a bl e.
bian, derog queer. hoodwink vb bluff, cheat, inf con,
honest adj above-board, blunt, can- cozen, deceive, defraud, delude,
did, conscientious, direct, equitable, dupe, fool, gull, inf have on, hoax,
fair, forthright, frank, genuine, good, lead on, mislead, inf pull the wool
honourable, impartial, incorruptible, over someone’s eyes, swindle, inf
just, law-abiding, legal, legitimate, take for a ride, take in, trick.
moral, inf on the level, open, out- hook n barb, crook, peg. > f a s t e n e r .
spoken, plain, principled, pure, re- • vb 1 t> f a s t e n . 2 hook a fish, capture,
liable, respectable, scrupulous, catch, take.
sincere, square (deal), straight, hooligan n bully, delinquent, hood-
straightforward, trustworthy, trusty, lum, lout, mugger, rough, ruffian,
truthful, unbiased, unequivocal, inf tearaway, thug, tough, trouble-
unprejudiced, upright, veracious, vir- maker, vandal, inf yob. > c r imin a l .
tuous. Opp DISHONEST.
hoop n band, circle, girdle, loop, ring,
honesty n 1 fairness, goodness,
honour, integrity, morality, probity, hop vb bound, caper, dance, jump,
rectitude, reliability, scrupulousness, leap, limp, prance, skip, spring, vault.
sense of justice, trustworthiness, hope n 1 ambition, aspiration, crav-
truthfulness, uprightness, veracity, ing, day-dream, desire, dream, long-
virtue. Opp d e c e it . 2 bluntness, ing, wish, yearning. 2 hope of better
candour, directness, frankness, out- weather, assumption, conviction,
spokenness, plainness, sincerity, expectation, faith, likelihood, op-
straightforwardnes s. timism, promise, prospect. • vb inf
honorary adj nominal, titular, un- anticipate, aspire, be hopeful,
official, unpaid. believe, contemplate, count on,
desire, expect, foresee, have faith,
honour n 1 acclaim, accolade, com-
have hope, look forward (to), trust,
pliment, credit, esteem, fame, good wish. Opp d e s pa ir .
name, inf kudos, regard, renown,
reputation, repute, respect, rever- hopeful adj 1 assured, confident,
ence, veneration. 2 distinction, duty, expectant, optimistic, positive, san-
importance, pleasure, privilege. 3 a guine. 2 hopefill signs, auspicious,
sense of honour, decency, dignity, hon- cheering, encouraging, favourable,
esty, integrity, loyalty, morality, heartening, promising, propitious,
nobility, principle, rectitude, right- reassuring. Opp h o pe l e s s .
eousness, sincerity, uprightness, hopefully adv 1 confidently, ex-
virtue. • vb acclaim, admire, applaud, pectantly, optimistically, with hope.
celebrate, commemorate, commend, 2 [in/] Hopefully III be better tomorrow.
dignify, esteem, give credit to, all being well, most likely, probably.
glorify, pay homage to, pay respects [Many think this use of hopefully is
to, pay tribute to, praise, remember, wrong]
respect, revere, reverence, show hopeless adj 1 defeatist, demoral-
respect to, sing the praises of, value, ized, despairing, desperate, discon-
venerate, worship. solate, fatalist, negative, pessimistic,
honourable adj admirable, chival- resigned, wretched. 2 a hopeless situa-
rous, creditable, decent, estimable, tion. daunting, depressing, im-
ethical, fair, good, high-minded, irre- possible, incurable, irremediable,
proachable, just, law-abiding, loyal, irreparable, irreversible. 3 [in/] He’s
moral, noble, principled, proper, hopeless! feeble, inadequate, incom-
reputable, respectable, respected, petent, inefficient, poor, useless,
righteous, sincere, inf straight, trust- weak, worthless. Opp h o pe f u l .
horde 194

horde n band, crowd, gang, mob, host n 1 army, crowd, mob, multi-
swarm, throng, tribe. > g r o u p . tude, swarm, throng, troop. > g r o u p .
horizontal adj even, flat, level, lying 2 > c o mpe r e .
down, prone, prostrate, supine. Opp hostage n captive, pawn, prisoner,
VERTICAL. surety.
horrible adj awful, beastly, dis- hostile adj 1 aggressive, antagon-
agreeable, dreadful, ghastly, hateful, istic, antipathetic, attacking, averse,
horrid, loathsome, macabre, nasty, bellicose, belligerent, combative,
objectionable, odious, offensive, confrontational, ill-disposed, in-
revolting, terrible, unkind. > h o r r if ic , hospitable, inimical, malevolent,
UNPLEASANT. Opp PLEASANT. militant, opposed, oppressive, pug-
horrific adj appalling, atrocious, nacious, resentful, rival, unfriendly,
blood-curdling, disgusting, dreadful, unsympathetic, unwelcoming, war-
frightening, frightful, grisly, grue- like, warring. > a n g r y . Opp f r ie n d l y .
some, hair-raising, harrowing, hor- 2 hostile conditions, adverse, con-
rendous, horrifying, nauseating, trary, opposing, unfavourable, un-
shocking, sickening, spine-chilling, helpful, unpropitious. > b a d . Opp
unacceptable, unnerving, unthink- FAVOURABLE.
able. hostility n aggression, animosity,
horrify vb alarm, appal, disgust, animus, antagonism, bad feeling,
frighten, harrow, nauseate, outrage, belligerence, confrontation, dissen-
scare, shock, sicken, stun, terrify, sion, enmity, estrangement, friction,
unnerve, horrifying > h o r r if ic . incompatibility, malevolence, mal-
ice, opposition, pugnacity, rancour,
horror n 1 abhorrence, antipathy, resentment, strife, unfriendliness.
aversion, detestation, disgust, dislike, > h a t r e d . Opp f r ie n d s h ip , hostilities
dismay, distaste, dread, fear, hatred, > WAR.
loathing, panic, repugnance, revul-
sion, terror. 2 awfulness, frightful- hot adj 1 baking, blistering, boiling,
ness, ghastliness, gruesomeness, burning, close, fiery, flaming, humid,
hideousness. oppressive, inf piping, red-hot, roast-
ing, scalding, scorching, searing,
horse n bronco, carthorse, old use sizzling, steamy, stifling, sultry,
charger, cob, colt, filly, foal, childish summery, sweltering, thermal, tor-
gee-gee, gelding, hack, hunter, old rid, tropical, warm, white-hot. 2 hot
use jade, mare, mount, mule, mus- temper, ardent, eager, emotional,
tang, inf nag, old use palfrey, piebald, excited, fervent, fervid, feverish,
pony, race-horse, roan, skewbald, fierce, heated, hotheaded, impatient,
stallion, steed, warhorse. impetuous, inflamed, intense, pas-
horseman, horsewoman ns cav- sionate, violent. 3 hot taste, acrid,
alryman, equestrian, jockey, rider. biting, gingery, peppeiy, piquant,
hospitable adj cordial, courteous, pungent, spicy, strong. Opp. c o l d ,
generous, gracious, receptive, soci- c o o l , hot-tempered > b a d -t e m pe r e d .
able, welcoming. > f r ie n d l y . Opp in - hot under the collar > a n g r y .
h o s pit a b l e . hotel n guest house, hostel, joc
hospital n clinic, convalescent hosteliy, inn, lodge, motel, pension.
home, dispensary, health centre, hos- > ACCOMMODATION.
pice, infirmary, medical centre, nurs- hound n > d o g . • vb annoy, badger,
ing home, sanatorium, sick bay. chase, harass, harry, hunt, nag, per-
hospitality n 1 accommodation, secute, pester, pursue.
catering, entertainment. 2 cordi- house n old use abode, domicile,
ality, courtesy, friendliness, gener- dwelling, dwelling-place, habitation,
osity, sociability, warmth, welcome. home, homestead, house-hold, place,
 195
humiliate
residence. □ apartment, inf back-to- hulking adj awkward, bulky, cum-
back, bungalow, chalet, cottage, council bersome, heavy, ungainly, unwieldy.
house, croft, detached house, farmhouse, I> BIG, CLUMSY.
flat, grange, hovel, homestead, hut, igloo,
hull n body, framework, structure,
lodge, maisonette, manor, manse, man-
sion, penthouse, infprefab, public house, hum vb buzz, drone, murmur, purr,
rectory, inf semi, semi-detached house, sing, thrum, vibrate, whirr, hum and
shack, shanty, terraced house, thatched haw > HESITATE.
house, inf two-up two-down, vicarage, human adj 1 anthropoid, hominid,
villa. • vb accommodate, billet, board, hominoid, mortal. 2 human feeling.
domicile, harbour, keep, lodge, place, kind, rational, reasonable, sensible,
inf put up, quarter, shelter, take in. sensitive, sympathetic, thoughtful, in -
household n establishment, family, h u m a n e . Opp in h u m a n , human beings
home, menage, m/set-up. folk, humanity, mankind, men and
hovel n cottage, inf dump, hole, hut, women, mortals, people.
shack, shanty, shed. humane adj altruistic, benevolent,
hover vb 1 be suspended, drift, float, charitable, civilized, compassionate,
flutter, fly, hang, poise. 2 be inde- feeling, forgiving, good, human,
cisive, dally, dither, inf hang about, humanitarian, kind-hearted, loving,
hang around, hesitate, linger, loiter, magnanimous, merciful, philan-
pause, vacillate, wait about, waver. thropic, pitying, refined, sym-
pathetic, tender, understanding,
howl vb bay, bellow, ciy, roar, shout,
unselfish, warm-hearted. > k in d . Opp
ululate, wail, yowl. INHUMANE.
hub n axis, centre, core, focal point,
focus, heart, middle, nucleus, pivot. humble adj 1 deferential, docile,
meek, modest, derog obsequious,
huddle n > g r o u p . • vb 1 cluster, con- polite, reserved, respectful, self-
verge, crowd, flock, gather, group, effacing, derog servile, submissive,
heap, herd, jam, jumble, pile, press, subservient, derog sycophantic,
squeeze, swarm, throng. 2 cuddle, unassertive, unassuming, unosten-
curl up, hug, nestle, snuggle. tatious, unpresuming, unpreten-
hue n cast, complexion, dye, nuance, tious. Opp pr o u d . 2 humble birth, base,
shade, tincture, tinge, tint, tone. > commonplace, ignoble, inferior,
c o l o u r , hue and cry > o u t c r y . insignificant, low, lowly, mean,
hug vb clasp, cling to, crush, cuddle, obscure, ordinary, plebeian, poor,
embrace, enfold, fold in your arms, simple, undistinguished, unimport-
hold close, huddle together, nestle ant, unprepossessing, unremarkable.
together, nurse, snuggle against, • Vb t> HUMILIATE.
squeeze. humid adj clammy, damp, dank,
huge adj 1 Brobdingnagian, colossal, moist, muggy, steamy, sticky, sultry,
elephantine, enormous, gargantuan, sweaty.
giant, gigantic, in/hulking, immense, humiliate vb abase, abash, break,
imposing, impressive, inf jumbo, break someone’s spirit, bring some-
majestic, mammoth, massive, one down, chagrin, chasten, crush,
mighty, inf monster, monstrous, deflate, degrade, demean, discredit,
monumental, mountainous, prodi- disgrace, embarrass, humble, make
gious, stupendous, titanic, towering, someone ashamed, inf make some-
inf tremendous, vast, weighty, inf one eat humble pie, inf make some-
whopping. > b ig . 2 huge number. > one feel small, mortify, inf put
INFINITE. Opp SMALL. someone down, inf put someone in
hulk n 1 body, carcass, frame, hull, his/her place, shame, inf show some-
shell, wreck. 2 a clumsy hulk, lout, one up, inf take someone down a
lump, oaf. peg. humiliating > s h a me f u l .
humiliation 196

humiliation n abasement, chagrin, hunt n chase, pursuit, quest, search.

degradation, discredit, disgrace, dis- > h u n t in g . • vb 1 chase, course, dog,
honour, embarrassment, ignominy, ferret, hound, poach, pursue, stalk,
indignity, loss of face, mortification, track, trail. 2 hunt for lost property, inf
obloquy, shame. check out, enquire after, ferret out,
humility n deference, humbleness,
look for, rummage, search for, seek,
lowliness, meekness, modesty, self- trace, track down.
abasement, self-effacement, derog hunter n huntsman, huntswoman,
servility, shyness, unpretentiousness. predator, stalker, trapper.
Opp PRIDE. hunting n blood-sports, coursing,
humorous adj absurd, amusing, poaching, stalking, trapping.
comic, comical, diverting, droll, en-
hurdle n 1 barricade, barrier, fence,
tertaining, facetious, farcical, funny,
hedge, jump, obstacle, wall. 2 bar,
hilarious, inf hysterical, ironic, jocose,
check, complication, difficulty, han-
jocular, inf killing, laughable, meny,
dicap, hindrance, impediment,
inf priceless, risible, sarcastic, sar-
donic, satirical, inf side-splitting, obstruction, problem, restraint,
slapstick, uproarious, waggish, snag, stumbling block.
whimsical, witty, zany. Opp s e r io u s . hurl vb cast, catapult, chuck, dash,
humour n 1 absurdity, badinage, fire, fling, heave, launch, inf let fly,
banter, comedy, drollness, facetious- pelt, pitch, project, propel, send, shy,
ness, firn, incongruity, irony, jesting, sling, throw, toss.
jocularity, jokes, joking, merriment, hurricane n cyclone, storm, tem-
quips, raillery, repartee, satire, inf pest, tornado, typhoon, whirlwind.
sense of fun, waggishness, wit, wit-
hurry n > h a s t e . • vb 1 inf belt, inf
ticism, wittiness. 2 in a good humour.
disposition, frame of mind, mood, buck up, chase, dash, dispatch, inf
spirits, state of mind, temper. fly, inf get a move on, hasten, hurtle,
hustle, make haste, move quickly,
hump n 1 bulge, bump, curve, rush, inf shift, speed, inf step on it,
growth, hunch, knob, lump, node, work faster. 2 hurry a process, accel-
projection, protrusion, protuberance, erate, expedite, press on with,
swelling, tumescence. 2 hump in the quicken, speed up. Opp d e l a y , hurried
ground, barrow, hillock, hummock, > HASTY.
mound, rise, tumulus. • vb 1 arch,
bend, crook, curl, curve, hunch, hurt vb 1 ache, be painful, burn,
raise. 2 hump a load, drag, heave, pinch, smart, sting, suffer pain,
hoist, lift, lug, raise, shoulder. throb, tingle. 2 hurt physically, abuse,
afflict, agonize, bruise, cause pain to,
hunch n1 > h u mp . 2 feeling, guess, cripple, cut, disable, injure, maim,
idea, impression, inkling, intuition, misuse, mutilate, torture, wound.
premonition, presentiment, suspi- 3 hurt mentally, affect, aggrieve, be
cion. • vb arch, bend, crook, curl, hurtful to, inf cut to the quick,
curve, huddle, hump, raise, shrug. depress, distress, grieve, humiliate,
hunger n 1 appetite, craving, greed, insult, offend, pain, sadden, torment,
ravenousness, voracity. 2 depriva- upset. 4 hurt things, damage, harm,
tion, famine, lack of food, malnutri- impair, mar, ruin, sabotage, spoil.
tion, starvation, want. • vb > d e s ir e . hurtful adj biting, cruel, cutting,
hungry adj aching, avid, covetous, damaging, derogatory, detrimental,
craving, eager, emaciated, famished, distressing, hard to bear, harmful,
famishing, greedy, longing, in/peck- injurious, malicious, nasty, painful,
ish, ravenous, starved, starving, sarcastic, scathing, spiteful, unchar-
underfed, undernourished, vora- itable, unkind, upsetting, vicious,
cious. wounding. Opp k in d .
197 hysterical
hurtle vb charge, chase, dash, fly, entrance, fascinate, gain power over,
plunge, race, rush, shoot, speed, tear, magnetize, mesmerize, inf put to
hush int be quiet! be silent! inf hold sleep, spellbind, inf stupefy.
your tongue! si pipe down! inf shut hypocrisy n cant, deceit, deception,
up! • vb > SILENCE, hush up > SUP- double-dealing, double standards,
PRESS. double-talk, double-think, duplicity,
hustle vb 1 bustle, hasten, hurry, falsity, inf humbug, inconsistency,
jostle, rush, scamper, scurry. insincerity.
2 hustled me away, coerce, compel, hypocritical adj deceptive, double-
force, push, shove, thrust. dealing, double-faced, duplicitous,
hut n cabin, den, hovel, lean-to, false, inconsistent, insincere, Phar-
shack, shanty, shed, shelter. isaical, inf phoney, self-deceiving,
hybrid n amalgam, combination, self-righteous, inf two-faced.
composite, compound, cross, cross- hypothesis n conjecture, guess, pos-
breed, half-breed, mixture, mongrel, tulate, premise, proposition, specu-
hygiene n cleanliness, health, sanit- lation, supposition, theory, thesis.
ariness, sanitation, wholesomeness. hypothetical adj academic, alleged,
hygienic adj aseptic, clean, disin- assumed, conjectural, groundless,
fected, germ-free, healthy, pure, salu- imaginary, presumed, putative, specu-
brious, sanitary, sterile, sterilized, lative, supposed, suppositional, theo-
unpolluted, wholesome. Opp u n - retical, unreal.
h ea l t h y. hysteria n frenzy, hysterics, mad-
hypnotic adj fascinating, irresistible, ness, mania, panic.
magnetic, mesmeric, mesmerizing, hysterical adj berserk, beside your-
sleep-inducing, soothing, soporific, self, crazed, delirious, demented, dis-
spellbinding. traught, frantic, frenzied, irrational,
hypnotize vb bewitch, captivate, cast mad, overemotional, rabid, raving,
a spell over, dominate, enchant, uncontrollable, wild.
 I
ice n black ice, floe, frost, glacier, ice- perceptible, recognizable, unmistak-
berg, icicle, rime. able. Opp UNIDENTIFIABLE.
icy adj 1 arctic, chilling, freezing, identify vb 1 distinguish, label,
frosty, frozen, glacial, polar, Siber- mark, name, pick out, pinpoint, inf
ian. > c o l d . 2 icy roads, glassy, slip- put a name to, recognize, single out,
pery, inf slippy, slithery. specify, spot. 2 identify an illness.
idea n 1 abstraction, attitude, belief, detect, diagnose, discover, identify
with empathize with, feel for, inf put
concept, conception, conjecture, con-
struct, conviction, doctrine, hypo- yourself in the shoes of, relate to,
thesis, notion, opinion, philosophy, sympathize with.
principle, sentiment, teaching, tenet, identity n 1 inf ID, name. 2 charac-
theoiy, thought, view. 2 a bright idea. ter, distinctiveness, individuality,
brainwave, design, fancy, guess, nature, particularity, personality,
inspiration, plan, proposal, scheme, selfhood, singularity, uniqueness.
suggestion. 3 idea of a poem, inten- ideology n assumptions, beliefs,
tion, meaning, point. 4 idea of what to creed, convictions, ideas, philosophy,
expect, clue, guidelines, impression, principles, tenets, theories, underly-
inkling, intimation, model, pattern, ing attitudes.
perception, suspicion, vision. idiom n argot, cant, choice of words,
ideal adj 1 best, classic, complete, dialect, expression, jargon, language,
excellent, faultless, model, optimum, manner of speaking, parlance,
perfect, supreme, unsurpassable. phrase, phraseology, phrasing, turn
2 an ideal world, chimerical, dream, of phrase, usage.
hypothetical, illusory, imaginary, idiomatic adj colloquial, natural,
unattainable, unreal, Utopian, vision- vernacular, well-phrased.
ary. • n 1 acme, criterion, epitome, idiosyncrasy n characteristic,
exemplar, model, paragon, pattern, eccentricity, feature, habit, individu-
standard. 2 > pr in c ipl e . ality, mannerism, oddity, peculiar-
idealistic adj high-minded, imprac- ity, quirk, trait.
tical, over-optimistic, quixotic, idiosyncratic adj characteristic, dis-
romantic, starry-eyed, unrealistic. tinctive, eccentric, individual, odd,
Opp REALISTIC. peculiar, personal, quirky, singular,
idealize vb apotheosize, deify, exalt, unique. Opp c o m m o n .
glamorize, glorify, inf put on a idiot n [most synonyms inf] ass, block-
pedestal, romanticize. > id o l iz e . head, bonehead, booby, chump, clot,
identical adj alike, comparable, con- cretin, dim-wit, dolt, dope, duffer,
gruent, corresponding, duplicate, dumb-bell, dummy, dunce, dunder-
equal, equivalent, indistinguishable, head, fat-head, fool, half-wit, ignor-
interchangeable, like, matching, the amus, imbecile, moron, nincompoop,
same, similar, twin. Opp d if f e r e n t . ninny, nitwit, simpleton, twerp, twit,
identifiable adj detectable, dis- idiotic adj absurd, asinine, crazy,
cernible, distinctive, distinguishable, foolish, half-witted, imbecile, insane,
familiar, known, named, noticeable, irrational, mad, moronic, nonsens-
 199
illness
ical, ridiculous, senseless. c> s t u pid . icated. > impo l it e , s t u pid . Opp c l e v e r ,
Opp SENSIBLE. KNOWLEDGEABLE.
idle adj 1 dormant, inactive, inoper- ignore vb disobey, disregard, leave
ative, in retirement, not working, out, miss out, neglect, omit, over-
redundant, retired, unemployed, look, pass over, reject, inf shut your
unoccupied, unproductive, unused. eyes to, skip, slight, snub, take no
2 apathetic, good-for-nothing, in- notice of, inf turn a blind eye to.
dolent, lackadaisical, lazy, shift-
less, slothful, slow, sluggish, torpid, ill adj 1 ailing, bad, bedridden, bili-
uncommitted, work-shy. 3 idle specu- ous, inf dicky, diseased, feeble, frail,
inf funny, inf groggy, indisposed,
lation. casual, frivolous, futile, point-
infected, infirm, invalid, nauseated,
less, worthless. Opp b u s y . • vb be lazy,
nauseous, inf off-colour, inf out of
dawdle, do nothing, inf hang about,
sorts, pasty, poorly, queasy, queer,
inf kill time, laze, loaf, loll, lounge
inf seedy, sick, sickly, suffering, inf
about, inf mess about, potter, slack,
under the weather, unhealthy,
stagnate, take it easy, vegetate. Opp
unwell, valetudinarian, weak. Opp
WORK.
h e a l t h y . 2 ill effects, bad, damaging,
idler n inf good-for-nothing, inf detrimental, evil, harmful, injurious,
layabout, inf lazybones, loafer, malin- unfavourable, unfortunate, unlucky.
gerer, shirker, inf skiver, slacker, Opp g o o d . • plur n the infirm,
sluggard, wastrel. invalids, patients, the sick, sufferers,
idol n 1 deity, effigy, fetish, god, victims, be ill ail, languish, sicken, ill-
graven image, icon, statue. 2 pop idol. advised > mis g u id e d , ill-bred > r u d e .
celebrity, inf darling, favourite, hero, ill-fated c> u n l u c k y , ill-humoured c>
inf pin-up, star, inf superstar. b a d -t e m pe r e d , ill-mannered c> r u d e .
idolize vb adore, adulate, hero-wor- ill-natured i> u n k in d , ill-omened >
u n l u c k y , ill-tempered > b a d -t e mpe r e d .
ship, lionize, look up to, revere, rev-
erence, venerate, worship. t> id e a l iz e . ill-treat > mis t r e a t .

idyllic adj Arcadian, bucolic, charm- illegal adj actionable, against the
ing, delightful, happy, idealized, law, banned, black-market, criminal,
lovely, pastoral, peaceful, perfect, pic- felonious, forbidden, illicit, invalid,
turesque, rustic, unspoiled. irregular, outlawed, prohibited, pro-
scribed, unauthorized, unconstitu-
ignite vb bum, catch fire, fire, kindle, tional, unlawful, unlicensed, wrong,
light, set alight, set on fire, spark off, wrongful. > ILLEGITIMATE. Opp LEGAL.
touch off.
illegible adj indecipherable, indis-
ignoble adj base, churlish, cowardly,
tinct, obscure, unclear, unreadable.
despicable, disgraceful, dishon-
Opp LEGIBLE.
ourable, infamous, low, mean,
selfish, shabby, uncharitable, un- illegitimate adj 1 against the rules,
chivalrous, unworthy. Opp n o b l e . improper, inadmissible, incorrect,
invalid, irregular, spurious, unau-
ignorance n inexperience, inno-
thorized, unjustifiable, unreason-
cence, unawareness, unconscious-
able, unwarranted. > il l e g a l .
ness, unfamiliarity. > s t u pid it y . Opp
2 bastard, bom out of wedlock, nat-
KNOWLEDGE.
ural. Opp LEGHIMATE.
ignorant adj 1 ill-informed, inno-
cent, lacking knowledge, oblivious, illiterate adj unable to read, un-
unacquainted, unaware, uncon- educated, unlettered. > ig n o r a n t . Opp
scious, unfamiliar (with), unin- LITERATE.
formed, unwitting. 2 benighted, inf illness n abnormality, affliction, ail-
clueless, illiterate, uncouth, unculti- ment, allergy, attack, blight, inf bug,
vated, uneducated, unenlightened, complaint, condition, contagion, dis-
unlettered, unscholariy, unsophist- ability, disease, disorder, epidemic,
illogical 200

fever, fit, health problem, indisposi- inventiveness, inf mind’s eye, origin-
tion, infection, infirmity, malady, ality, resourcefulness, sensitivity,
malaise, pestilence, plague, sickness, thought, vision.
inf trouble, inf turn, inf upset, weak- imaginative adj artistic, attractive,
ness. > WOUND. beautiful, clever, creative, fanciful,
illogical adj absurd, fallacious, ingenious, innovative, inspired,
inconsequential, inconsistent, in- inspiring, inventive, original, poetic,
valid, irrational, senseless, unreas- resourceful, sensitive, thoughtful,
onable, unsound. > s il l y . Opp l o g ic a l . unusual, visionary, vivid. Opp u n im a -
illuminate vb 1 brighten, decorate g in a t iv e .
with lights, light up, make brighter, imagine vb 1 conceive, conjure up,
reveal. 2 clarify, clear up, elucidate, inf cook up, create, dream up, envis-
enlighten, explain, explicate, throw age, fancy, fantasize, invent, make
light on. believe, make up, picture, pretend,
illusion n 1 apparition, conjuring see, think of, think up, visualize.
trick, day-dream, deception, delu- 2 assume, believe, conjecture, guess,
sion, dream, fancy, fantasy, figment infer, judge, presume, suppose, sur-
of the''imagination, hallucination, mise, suspect, think.
mirage. 2 under an illusion, error, false imitate vb 1 ape, burlesque, carica-
impression, misapprehension, mis- ture, counterfeit, duplicate, echo,
conception, mistake. guy, mimic, parody, parrot, portray,
illusory adj chimerical, deceptive, reproduce, satirize, send up, simu-
deluding, delusive, fallacious, false, late, inf take off, travesty. > im pe r -
illusive, imagined, misleading, mis- s o n a t e . 2 copy, emulate, follow,
taken, sham, unreal, untrue. > ima - match, model yourself on.
g in a r y . Opp REAL. imitation adj artificial, copied, coun-
illustrate vb 1 demonstrate, elucid- terfeit, dummy, ersatz, man-made,
ate, exemplify, explain, instance, mock, model, inf phoney, reproduc-
show. 2 adorn, decorate, embellish, tion, sham, simulated, synthetic. Opp
illuminate, ornament. 3 depict, draw r e a l . • n 1 copying, duplication, emu-
pictures of, picture, portray. lation, mimicry, repetition. 2 inf
illustration n 1 case in point, clone, copy, counterfeit, dummy,
demonstration, example, exemplar, duplicate, fake, forgery, imperson-
instance, sample, specimen. 2 dec- ation, impression, likeness, inf mock-
oration, depiction, diagram, draw- up, model, parody, reflection, replica,
ing, figure, photograph, picture, reproduction, sham, simulation, inf
sketch. > IMAGE. take-off, toy, travesty.
image n 1 imitation, likeness, pro- immature adj adolescent, babyish,
jection, reflection, representation. backward, callow, childish, inf green,
> pic t u r e . 2 carving, effigy, figure, inexperienced, infantile, juvenile,
icon, idol, statue. 3 the image of her new, puerile, undeveloped, unripe,
mother, counterpart, double, likeness, young, youthful. Opp ma t u r e .
spitting-image, twin. immediate adj 1 instant, instant-
imaginary adj fabulous, fanciful, fic- aneous, prompt, quick, speedy, sud-
tional, fictitious, hypothetical, ima- den, swift, unhesitating, unthinking.
gined, insubstantial, invented, 2 immediate need, current, pres-
legendary, made-up, mythical, ent, pressing, top-priority, urgent.
mythological, non-existent, sup- 3 immediate neighbours, adjacent,
posed, unreal, visionary. > il l u s o r y . close, closest, direct, near, nearest,
Opp REAL. neighbouring, next.
imagination n artistry, creativity, immediately adv at once, directly,
fancy, ingenuity, insight, inspiration, forthwith, instantly, now, promptly,
201 impatient
inf right away, straight away, unhesi- beings, divine, godlike, legendary,
tatingly. mythical. Opp mo r t a l .
immense adj Brobdingnagian, colos- immortalize vb apotheosize, beatify,
sal, elephantine, enormous, gargan- canonize, commemorate, deify, en-
tuan, giant, gigantic, great, huge, inf shrine, keep alive, make immortal,
hulking, immeasurable, imposing, make permanent, memorialize, per-
impressive, incalculable, inf jumbo, petuate.
large, mammoth, massive, mighty, immovable adj 1 anchored, fast,
inf monster, monstrous, monu- firm, fixed, immobile, immobilized,
mental, mountainous, prodigious, motionless, paralysed, riveted,
stupendous, titanic, towering, inf rooted, secure, set, settled, solid,
tremendous, vast, inf whopping. static, stationary, still, stuck, un-
> BIG. Opp SMALL. moving. 2 t> IMMUTABLE.
immerse vb bathe, dip, drench, immune adj exempt, free, immu-
drown, duck, dunk, inundate, lower, nized, inoculated, invulnerable, pro-
plunge, sink, submerge, immersed tected, resistant, safe, unaffected,
> BUSY, INTERESTED. vaccinated. Opp v u l n e r a b l e .
immersion n baptism, dipping, immunize vb inoculate, vaccinate.
ducking, plunge, submersion. immutable adj constant, depend-
immigrant n alien, arrival, incomer, able, enduring, eternal, fixed, invari-
newcomer, outsider, settler. able, lasting, obdurate, permanent,
perpetual, reliable, settled, stable,
imminent adj about to happen,
steadfast, unalterable, unchangeable,
approaching, close, coming, foresee-
unswerving, unvarying. > r e s o l u t e .
able, forthcoming, impending, loom-
Opp CHANGEABLE.
ing, menacing, near, threatening.
impact n 1 bang, blow, bump, colli-
immobile adj 1 t> immo v a b l e . sion, concussion, contact, crash,
2 frozen, inexpressive, inflexible, knock, smash. 2 bearing, con-
rigid. Opp MOBILE. sequence, effect, force, impression,
immobilize vb cripple, damage, dis- influence, repercussions, reverbera-
able, make immobile, paralyse, put tions, shock, thrust. • vb > h it .
out of action, sabotage, stop. impair vb cripple, damage, harm,
immoral adj abandoned, base, con- injure, mar, ruin, spoil, weaken.
scienceless, corrupt, debauched, impale vb pierce, run through,
degenerate, depraved, dishonest, dis- skewer, spear, spike, spit, stab, stick,
sipated, dissolute, evil, inf fast, transfix.
impure, indecent, irresponsible, impartial adj balanced, detached,
licentious, loose, low, profligate, disinterested, dispassionate, equit-
promiscuous, inf rotten, sinful, able, even-handed, fair, fair-minded,
unchaste, unethical, unprincipled, just, neutral, non-partisan, objective,
unscrupulous, vicious, villainous, open-minded, unbiased, uninvolved,
wanton, wrong. > w ic k e d . Opp mo r a l . unprejudiced. Opp b ia s e d .
immoral person blackguard, cheat,
degenerate, liar, libertine, profligate, impartiality n balance, detachment,
rake, reprobate, scoundrel, sinner, disinterest, fairness, justice, neutral-
villain, wrongdoer. ity, objectivity, open-mindedness.
Opp BIAS.
immortal adj 1 ageless, ceaseless,
deathless, endless, eternal, everlast- impassable adj blocked, closed,
ing, incorruptible, indestructible, obstructed, unusable.
never-ending, perpetual, sempiter- impatient adj 1 anxious, eager,
nal, timeless, unchanging, undying, keen, impetuous, precipitate, inf
unending, unfading. 2 immortal raring. 2 agitated, chafing, edgy,
impede 202

fidgety, fretful, irritable, nervous, patchy, shop-soiled, spoilt, unfin-

restive, restless, uneasy. 3 an impa- ished, wanting. Opp pe r f e c t .
tient manner, abrupt, brusque, curt, imperfection n blemish, damage,
hasty, intolerant, irascible, irritable, defect, deficiency, error, failing, fault,
quick-tempered, short-tempered, flaw, foible, frailty, inadequacy,
snappish, snappy, testy. Opp a pa t h e t ic , infirmity, peccadillo, shortcoming,
PATIENT. weakness. Opp pe r f e c t io n .
impede vb arrest, bar, be an impedi- impermanent adj changing, de-
ment to, check, curb, delay, deter, structible, ephemeral, evanescent,
frustrate, get in the way of, hamper, fleeting, momentary, passing, shifting,
handicap, hinder, inf hit, hold back, short-lived, temporary, transient,
hold up, keep back, limit, obstruct, transitory, unstable. t> c h a n g e a b l e .
oppose, prevent, restrain, restrict, Opp PERMANENT.
retard, sabotage, slow down, slow
up, stand in the way of, stop, thwart. impersonal adj aloof, businesslike,
Opp HELP. cold, cool, correct, detached, disin-
terested, dispassionate, distant, for-
impediment n 1 bar, barrier, bur- mal, hard, inhuman, mechanical,
den, check, curb, deterrent, diffi- objective, official, remote, stiff, unap-
culty,' disadvantage, inf drag, proachable, unemotional, unfriendly,
drawback, encumbrance, hindrance, unprejudiced, unsympathetic, with-
inconvenience, limitation, obstacle, out emotion, wooden. Opp f r ie n d l y .
obstruction, restraint, restriction,
snag, stumbling-block. 2 > h a n d ic a p. impersonate vb disguise yourself
as, do impressions of, dress up as,
impending adj about to happen,
masquerade as, mimic, pass yourself
approaching, close, coming, foresee- off as, portray, pose as, pretend to be,
able, forthcoming, imminent, loom-
inf take off. > imit a t e .
ing, menacing, near, inf on the
horizon, threatening. impertinent adj bold, brazen,
cheeky, inf cocky, inf cool, discour-
impenetrable adj 1 dense, hard,
teous, disrespectful, forward, fresh,
resilient, solid, strong. > impe r v io u s .
impolite, impudent, insolent, insub-
2 impregnable, invincible, inviolable,
ordinate, insulting, irreverent, pert,
invulnerable, safe, secure, unassai-
saucy. > r u d e . Opp r e s pe c t f u l .
lable, unconquerable. Opp v u l n e r a b l e .
3 impenetrable language, inaccessible, impervious adj 1 hermetic, impen-
incomprehensible, inscrutable, un- etrable, impermeable, non-porous,
fathomable, inf unget-at-able. Opp solid, waterproof, water-repellent,
ACCESSIBLE. watertight. Opp po r o u s . 2 > r e s is t a n t .
imperceptible adj faint, gradual, impetuous adj abrupt, careless,
inappreciable, inaudible, indistin- eager, hasty, headlong, hot-headed,
guishable, infinitesimal, insignific- impulsive, incautious, offhand,
ant, invisible, microscopic, minute, precipitate, quick, rash, reckless,
negligible, slight, small, subtle, tiny, speedy, spontaneous, inf spur-
unclear, undetectable, unnoticeable, of-the-moment, inf tearing, thought-
vague. t> SMALL. Opp PERCEPTIBLE. less, unplanned, unpremeditated,
imperceptive adj impercipient, unthinking, violent. Opp c a u t io u s .
inattentive, slow, uncritical, undis- impetus n boost, drive, encourage-
criminating, unobservant, unre- ment, energy, fillip, force, impulse,
sponsive. > STUPID. Opp PERCEPTIVE. incentive, inspiration, momentum,
imperfect adj blemished, broken, motivation, power, push, spur,
chipped, cracked, damaged, defect- stimulation, stimulus, thrust.
ive, deficient, faulty, flawed, incom- impiety n blasphemy, godlessness,
plete, incorrect, marred, partial, irreverence, profanity, sacrilege, sin-
203 impress
fulness, ungodliness, unrighteous- stantial, urgent, valuable, vital,
ness, wickedness. Opp pie t y . weighty. 2 celebrated, distinguished,
impious adj blasphemous, godless, eminent, famous, great, high-
irreligious, irreverent, profane, sac- ranking, influential, known, leading,
rilegious, sinful, unholy. t> w ic k e d . notable, noted, powerful, pre-
Opp pio u s . eminent, prominent, renowned, top-
implausible adj doubtful, dubious,
level, well-known. Opp u n im po r t a n t .
be important t> ma t t e r .
far-fetched, feeble, improbable, ques-
tionable, suspect, unconvincing, importunate adj demanding, impa-
unlikely, unreasonable, weak. Opp tient, insistent, persistent, pressing,
pl a u s ib l e . relentless, urgent, unremitting.
implement n apparatus, appliance, importune vb badger, harass,
contrivance, device, gadget, instru- hound, pester, plague, plead with,
ment, mechanism, tool, utensil. • vb press, solicit, urge. t> a s k .
accomplish, achieve, bring about, impose vb charge with, decree, dic-
carry out, effect, enforce, execute, tate, enforce, exact, fix, foist, force,
fulfil, perform, put into effect, put inflict, insist on, introduce, lay, levy,
into practice, realize, try out. prescribe, set. impose on t> b u r d e n ,
implicate vb associate, concern, con- e x pl o it , imposing t> impr e s s iv e .
nect, embroil, enmesh, ensnare, impossible adj hopeless, imprac-
entangle, entrap, include, incrim- ticable, impractical, inconceivable,
inate, inculpate, involve, show insoluble, insuperable, insurmount-
involvement in. able, inf not on, out of the question,
implication n 1 hidden meaning, unachievable, unattainable, unima-
hint, innuendo, insinua-tion, over- ginable, unobtainable, unthinkable,
tone, purport, significance. 2 im- unviable, unworkable. Opp po s s ib l e .
plication in crime, association, impotent adj debilitated, decrepit,
connection, embroilment, entangle- emasculated, enervated, helpless,
ment, inclusion, involvement. inadequate, incapable, incompetent,
implicit adj 1 hinted at, implied, ineffective, ineffectual, inept, infirm,
indirect, inherent, insinuated, tacit, powerless, unable. t> w e a k . Opp
understood, undeclared, unex- POTENT.
pressed, unsaid, unspoken, unstated, impracticable adj not feasible,
unvoiced. Opp e x pl ic it . 2 implicit faith. unachievable, unworkable, useless.
t> ABSOLUTE. t> IMPOSSIBLE. Opp PRACTICABLE.
imply vb 1 hint, indicate, insinuate, impractical adj academic, ideal-
intimate, mean, point to, suggest. istic, quixotic, romantic, theoretical,
2 t> SIGNIFY. unrealistic, visionaiy. Opp pr a c t ic a l .
impolite adj discourteous, disres- imprecise adj ambiguous, approx-
pectful, ill-bred, ill-mannered, imate, careless, estimated, fuzzy,
uncivil, vulgar. t> r u d e . Opp po l it e . guessed, hazy, ill-defined, inaccurate,
import vb bring in, buy in, introduce, inexact, inexplicit, loose, inf sloppy,
ship in. t> c o n v e y . undefined, unscientific, vague, inf
waffly, inf woolly. Opp pr e c is e .
important adj 1 basic, big, cardinal,
central, chief, consequential, critical, impregnable adj impenetrable,
epoch-making, essential, foremost, invincible, inviolable, invulnerable,
fundamental, grave, historic, key, safe, secure, strong, unassailable,
main, major, momentous, news- unconquerable. Opp v u l n e r a b l e .
worthy, noteworthy, once in a life- impress vb 1 affect, be memorable
time, outstanding, pressing, primary, to, excite, influence, inspire, leave
principal, rare, salient, serious, its mark on, move, persuade, inf stick
signal, significant, strategic, sub- in the mind of, stir, touch. 2 impress
impression 204

a mark, emboss, engrave, imprint, inopportune, irregular, mistaken,

mark, print, stamp. out of place, uncalled-for, unfit,
impression n 1 effect, impact, influ-
unseemly, unsuitable, unwarranted.
ence, mark. 2 belief, consciousness, > WRONG. 2 > INDECENT. Opp PROPER.
fancy, feeling, hunch, idea, memory, impropriety n inappropriateness,
notion, opinion, recollection, sense, incorrectness, indecency, indelicacy,
suspicion, view. 3 dent, hollow, infelicity, insensitivity, irregularity,
imprint, indentation, mark, print, rudeness, unseemliness. > o b s c e n it y .
stamp. 4 imitation, impersonation, Opp PROPRIETY.
mimicry, parody, inf take-off. improve vb 1 advance, develop, get
5 impression of a book, edition, print- better, grow, increase, inf look up,
ing, reprint. move on, progress, inf take a turn
impressionable adj easily influ- for the better. 2 improve after illness.
enced, gullible, inexperienced, naive, convalesce, inf pick up, rally, recover,
persuadable, receptive, responsive, recuperate, revive, strengthen, inf
suggestible, susceptible. turn the comer. 3 improve your ways.
impressive adj affecting, august, ameliorate, amend, better, correct,
awe-inspiring, awesome, command- enhance, enrich, make better, mend,
ing, distinguished, evocative, excit- polish (up), rectify, refine, reform,
ing, ' formidable, grand, derog revise. 4 improve a home, decorate,
grandiose, great, imposing, magnifi- extend, modernize, rebuild, recondi-
cent, majestic, memorable, moving, tion, refurbish, renovate, repair,
powerful, redoubtable, remarkable, touch up, update, upgrade. Opp
splendid, stately, stirring, striking, WORSEN.
touching. > b ig . Opp in s ig n if ic a n t . improvement n 1 advance, ameli-
imprison vb cage, commit to prison, oration, betterment, correction, de-
confine, detain, gaol, immure, incar- velopment, enhancement, gain,
cerate, intern, jail, keep in custody, increase, progress, rally, recovery,
keep under house arrest, inf keep reformation, upswing, upturn.
under lock and key, lock away, lock 2 home improvements, alteration,
up, inf put away, remand, inf send extension, inf face-lift, moderniza-
down, shut in, shut up. Opp f r e e . tion, modification, renovation.
imprisonment n confinement, cus- improvise vb 1 inf ad-lib, concoct,
tody, detention, duress, gaol, house contrive, devise, invent, make do,
arrest, incarceration, internment, make up, inf throw together.
jail, remand, restraint. 2 extemporize, perform impromptu,
improbable adj absurd, doubtful,
play by ear, vamp.
dubious, far-fetched, inf hard to impudent adj audacious, bold, inf
believe, implausible, incredible, pre- cheeky, disrespectful, forward, inf
posterous, questionable, unbeliev- fresh, impertinent, insolent, pert,
able, unconvincing, unexpected, presumptuous, saucy. > r u d e . Opp
unlikely. Opp pr o b a b l e . RESPECTFUL.
impromptu adj inf ad-lib, extem- impulse n 1 drive, force, impetus,
pore, extemporized, improvised, motive, pressure, push, stimulus,
impulsive, made-up, offhand, inf off thrust. 2 caprice, desire, instinct,
the cuff, inf off the top of your head, urge, whim.
inf on the spur of the moment, spon- impulsive adj automatic, emotional,
taneous, unplanned, unpremed- hare-brained, hasty, headlong, hot-
itated, unprepared, unrehearsed, headed, impetuous, instinctive, in-
unscripted. > impu l s iv e . Opp r e h e a r s e d . tuitive, involuntaiy, madcap,
improper adj 1 ill-judged, ill-timed, precipitate, rash, reckless, inf
inappropriate, incorrect, infelicitous, snap, spontaneous, inf spur-of-the-
 205 incidental
moment, sudden, thoughtless, incongruous, incorrect, inept, in-
unconscious, unplanned, unpremed- opportune, irrelevant, out of place,
itated, unthinking, wild. > impr o mpt u . tactless, tasteless, unbecoming,
Opp DELIBERATE. unbefitting, unfit, unseasonable,
impure adj 1 adulterated, contami- unseemly, unsuitable, unsuited,
nated, defiled, foul, infected, untimely, wrong. Opp a ppr o pr ia t e .
polluted, tainted, unclean, unwhole- inarticulate adj dumb, faltering,
some. > DIRTY. 2 > INDECENT. halting, hesitant, mumbling, mute,
impurity n contamination, defile- shy, silent, speechless, stammering,
ment, infection, pollution, taint. stuttering, tongue-tied, voiceless.
> DIRT. > INCOHERENT. Opp ARTICULATE.
inaccessible adj cut off, deserted, inattentive adj absent-minded,
desolate, godforsaken, impassable, abstracted, careless, day-dreaming,
impenetrable, inconvenient, isolated, distracted, dreaming, drifting, heed-
lonely, inf off the beaten track, out- less, inf in a world of your own,
lying, out of reach, out-of-the-way, lacking concentration, negligent,
private, remote, solitary, unavailable, preoccupied, rambling, remiss, slack,
unfrequented, inf unget-at-able, unobservant, vague, wandering,
unobtainable, unreachable, unus- wool-gathering. Opp a t t e n t iv e .
able. Opp ACCESSIBLE. inaudible adj imperceptible, mum-
inaccurate adj erroneous, falla- bled, quiet, silenced, silent, stifled,
cious, false, faulty, flawed, imperfect, undetectable, undistinguishable,
imprecise, incorrect, inexact, mis- unheard. > f a in t . Opp a u d ib l e .
leading, mistaken, unfaithful, un- incapable adj 1 clumsy, helpless,
reliable, unsound, untrue, vague, impotent, inadequate, incompet-
wrong. Opp ACCURATE. ent, ineffective, ineffectual, inept,
inactive adj asleep, dormant, hiber- powerless, stupid, unable, unfit,
nating, idle, immobile, inanimate, unqualified, useless, weak. Opp c a -
indolent, inert, languid, lazy, lethar- pa b l e . 2 > DRUNK.
gic, out of action, passive, quiescent, incentive n bait, inf carrot, encour-
quiet, sedentary, sleepy, slothful, agement, enticement, impetus,
slow, sluggish, somnolent, torpid, incitement, inducement, lure, mo-
unemployed, unoccupied, vegetating. tivation, reward, stimulus, inf
Opp ACTIVE. sweetener.
inadequate adj deficient, disap- incessant adj ceaseless, chronic,
pointing, faulty, imperfect, incom- constant, continual, continuous, end-
petent, incomplete, ineffective, less, eternal, everlasting, inter-
insufficient, limited, meagre, mean, minable, never-ending, non-stop,
niggardly, inf pathetic, scanty, scarce, perennial, permanent, perpetual,
inf skimpy, sparse, unacceptable, persistent, relentless, unbroken,
unsatisfactory, unsuitable. Opp a d - unceasing, unending, unremitting.
eq u a t e. Opp in t e r mit t e n t , t e mpo r a r y .
inadvisable adj foolish, illadvised, incident n 1 affair, circumstance,
imprudent, misguided, unwise. episode, event, fact, happening, occa-
> SILLY. Opp WISE. sion, occurrence, proceeding. 2 a
inanimate adj cold, dead, dormant, nasty incident, accident, confronta-
immobile, inactive, insentient, life- tion, disturbance, fight, scene, upset.
less, motionless, spiritless, uncon- I> COMMOTION.
scious. Opp ANIMATE. incidental adj accidental, adventi-
inappropriate adj ill-judged, ill- tious, attendant, casual, chance, for-
suited, ill-timed, improper, inapplic- tuitous, inessential, minor, odd,
able, inapposite, incompatible, random, secondaiy, serendipitous,
 206
incipient
subordinate, subsidiary, unplanned. next, returning. 2 incoming tide, flow-
Opp ESSENTIAL. ing, rising. Opp o u t g o in g .
incipient adj beginning, developing, incompatible adj antipathetic, at
early, embiyonic, growing, new, variance, clashing, conflicting, con-
rudimentary, starting. tradictoiy, contrasting, different, dis-
incisive adj acute, dear, condse, cut- cordant, discrepant, incongruous,
ting, decisive, direct, penetrating, inconsistent, irreconcilable, mis-
perdpient, precise, sharp, telling, matched, opposed, unsuited. Opp
trenchant. Opp v a g u e . COMPATIBLE.
incite vb awaken, encourage, excite, incompetent adj 1 bungling,
fire, foment, inflame, inspire, clumsy, feckless, gauche, helpless, inf
prompt, provoke, rouse, spur on, hopeless, incapable, ineffective, in-
stimulate, stir, urge, whip up, work effectual, inefficient, inexperienced,
up. maladroit, unfit, unqualified,
inclination n affection, bent, bias, unskilled, untrained. 2 bungled,
disposition, fondness, habit, instind, inadequate, inexpert, unacceptable,
leaning, liking, partiality, penchant, unsatisfactoiy, unskilful, useless. Opp
predilection, predisposition, prefer- COMPETENT.
ence, proclivity, propensity, readi- incomplete adj abbreviated,
ness, tendency, trend, willingness. abridged, inf bitty, deficient, edited,
> DESIRE. expurgated, faulty, ffagmentaiy,
incline n acclivity, ascent, declivity, imperfect, insufficient, partial, select-
descent, drop, grade, gradient, hill, ive, shortened, sketchy, unfinished,
pitch, ramp, rise, slope. • vb angle, unpolished, wanting. Opp c o mpl e t e .
ascend, bank, bend, bow, descend, incomprehensible adj abstruse,
drop, gravitate, lean, rise, slant, arcane, baffling, beyond compre-
slope, tend, tilt, tip, veer, inclined hension, cryptic, deep, enigmatic,
(to) > LIABLE. esoteric, illegible, impenetrable, in-
include vb 1 add in, blend in, com- decipherable, meaningless, myster-
bine, comprehend, comprise, consist ious, mystifying, obscure, opaque, inf
of, contain, embody, embrace, over my head, perplexing, puzzling,
encompass, incorporate, involve, recondite, strange, too difficult,
make room for, mix, subsume, take unclear, unfathomable, unintelli-
in. 2 The price includes tea. allow for, gible. Opp c o mpr e h e n s ib l e .
cover, take into account. Opp e x c l u d e . inconceivable adj implausible,
incoherent adj confused, discon- impossible to understand, incredible,
nected, disjointed, disordered, dis- inf mind-boggling, staggering, unbe-
organized, garbled, illogical, lievable, undreamed-of, unimagin-
incomprehensible, inconsistent, irra- able, unthinkable. Opp c r e d ib l e .
tional, jumbled, mixed up, muddled, inconclusive adj ambiguous, equi-
rambling, scrambled, unclear, vocal, indecisive, indefinite, in-
unconnected, unstructured, unsys- terrogative, open, open-ended,
tematic. > INARTICULATE. Opp COHERENT, questionable, uncertain, unconvinc-
incombustible adj fireproof, ing, unresolved, inf up in the air. Opp
fire-resistant, flameproof, non- CONCLUSIVE.
flammable. Opp COMBUSTIBLE.
incongruous adj clashing, conflict-
income n earnings, gain, interest, ing, contrasting, discordant, ill-
pay, pension, proceeds, profits, matched, ill-suited, inappropriate,
receipts, return, revenue, salary, tak- incompatible, inconsistent, irrecon-
ings, wages. Opp e x pe n s e . cilable, odd, out of keeping, out of
incoming adj 1 approaching, arriv- place, surprising, uncoordinated,
ing, entering, coming, landing, new, unsuited. > a b s u r d . Opp c o mpa t ib l e .
207 indecent
inconsiderate adj careless, cruel, incorruptible adj 1 honest, hon-
heedless, insensitive, intolerant, ourable, just, moral, sound, inf
negligent, rude, self-centred, self- straight, true, trustworthy, unbrib-
ish, tactless, thoughtless, uncaring, able, upright. Opp c o r r u pt . 2 > e v e r -
unconcerned, unfriendly, ungra- l a s t in g .
cious, unhelpful, unkind, unsym- increase n addition, amplification,
pathetic, unthinking. Opp c o n s id e r a t e . augmentation, boost, build-up,
inconsistent adj capricious, crescendo, development, enlarge-
changeable, erratic, fickle, incon- ment, escalation, expansion, exten-
stant, patchy, unpredictable, unreli- sion, gain, growth, increment,
able, unstable, inf up-and-down, inflation, intensification, prolifera-
variable. > in c o mpa t ib l e . Opp c o n - tion, rise, spread, upsurge, upturn. •
s is t e n t . vb 1 add to, advance, amplify, aug-
inconspicuous adj camouflaged, ment, boost, broaden, build up,
concealed, discreet, hidden, insig- develop, enlarge, expand, extend,
nificant, in the background, in- improve, lengthen, magnify, make
visible, modest, ordinary, out of bigger, maximize, multiply, prolong,
sight, plain, restrained, retiring, self- put up, raise, inf step up, strengthen,
effacing, small, unassuming, un- stretch, swell, widen. 2 escalate,
obtrusive, unostentatious. Opp gain, get bigger, grow, intensify, pro-
CONSPICUOUS. liferate, inf snowball, spread, wax.
Opp d e c r e a s e .
inconvenience n annoyance,
incredible adj beyond belief, far-
bother, discomfort, disruption, draw-
fetched, implausible, impossible,
back, encumbrance, hindrance,
improbable, inconceivable, miracu-
impediment, irritation, nuisance,
lous, surprising, unbelievable,
trouble. • vb annoy, bother, discom-
unconvincing, unimaginable, un-
mode, disturb, incommode, irk, ir-
likely, untenable, unthinkable.
ritate, inf put out, trouble.
> e x t r a o r d in a r y . Opp c r e d ib l e .
inconvenient adj annoying, awk-
incredulous adj disbelieving, dis-
ward, bothersome, cumbersome, trustful, doubtfill, dubious, mis-
difficult, embarrassing, ill-timed, trustful, questioning, sceptical,
inopportune, irksome, irritating, suspicious, unbelieving, uncertain,
tiresome, troublesome, unsuitable, unconvinced. Opp c r e d u l o u s .
untimely, untoward, unwieldy. Opp
CONVENIENT. incriminate vb accuse, blame,
charge, embroil, implicate, inculpate,
incorporate vb admit, combine, indict, involve, inf point the finger
comprehend, comprise, consist of, at. Opp e x c u s e .
contain, embody, embrace, encom-
pass, include, involve, mix in, sub- incur vb earn, expose yourself to, get,
sume, take in, take into account, lay yourself open to, provoke, run
unite. Opp e x c l u d e . up, suffer.
incorrect adj erroneous, fallacious, incurable adj 1 fatal, hopeless,
false, faulty, imprecise, improper, inoperable, irremediable, irreparable,
inaccurate, inexact, mendacious, terminal, untreatable. Opp c u r a b l e .
misinformed, misleading, mistaken, 2 > in c o r r ig ib l e .
specious, untrue. Opp c o r r e c t . indebted adj old use beholden,
bound, grateful, obliged, thankful,
incorrigible adj confirmed, inf dyed-
in-the-wool, habitual, hardened, inf under an obligation.
hopeless, impenitent, incurable, indecent adj inf blue, coarse, crude,
inveterate, irredeemable, obdurate, dirty, immodest, impolite, improper,
shameless, unalterable, unreform- impure, indelicate, insensitive,
able, unrepentant. > w ic k e d . naughty, obscene, offensive, risque,
indecisive 208

rude, inf sexy, inf smutty, suggestive, indescribable adj beyond words,
titillating, unprintable, unrepeatable, indefinable, inexpressible, stunning,
unsuitable, vulgar. > in d e c o r o u s . Opp unspeakable, unutterable.
DECENT. indestructible adj durable, endur-
indecisive adj doubtful, equivocal, ing, eternal, everlasting, immortal,
evasive, inf in two minds, irresolute, imperishable, ineradicable, lasting,
undecided. > h e s it a n t , in d e f in it e . Opp permanent, shatter-proof, solid,
d e c is iv e , be indecisive > h e s it a t e . strong, tough, toughened, unbreak-
able.
indecorous adj churlish, ill-bred,
inappropriate, infin bad taste, taste- index n 1 catalogue, directory, guide,
less, unbecoming, uncouth, undig- key, register, table (of contents).
nified, unseemly, vulgar. > in d e c e n t . 2 > INDICATOR.
Opp DECOROUS. indicate vb announce, betoken,
indefensible adj incredible, in- communicate, convey, denote, de-
supportable, unjustifiable, unpar- scribe, designate, display, evidence,
donable, unreasonable, unsound, express, give an indication (of), give
untenable, vulnerable, weak. > notice of, imply, intimate, make
WRONG. known, manifest, mean, notify, point
out, register, reveal, say, show, sig-
indefinite adj ambiguous, blurred,
nal, signify, specify, spell, stand for,
confused, dim, general, ill-defined,
suggest, symbolize, warn.
imprecise, indeterminate, inexact,
inexplicit, inf leaving it open, neut- indication n augury, clue, evidence,
ral, obscure, uncertain, unclear, forewarning, hint, inkling, inti-
unsettled, unspecific, unspecified, mation, omen, portent, sign, signal,
unsure, vague. > in d e c is iv e . Opp d e f i - suggestion, symptom, token, warn-
n it e . ing.
indelible adj fast, fixed, indes- indicator n clock, dial, display,
tructible, ineffaceable, ineradicable, gauge, index, instrument, marker,
ingrained, lasting, unfading, unfor- meter, needle, pointer, screen, sign,
gettable. > pe r ma n e n t . signal.
indentation n cut, dent, depression, indifferent adj 1 aloof, apathetic,
dimple, dip, furrow, groove, hollow, blase, bored, casual, cold, cool,
indent, mark, nick, notch, pit, recess, detached, disinterested, dispassion-
score, serration, toothmark, zigzag. ate, distant, half-hearted, impassive,
independence n 1 autonomy, free-
incurious, insouciant, neutral, non-
dom, individualism, liberty, noncon- chalant, not bothered, uncaring,
formity, self-confidence, self-reliance, unconcerned, unemotional, unen-
self-sufficiency. 2 autarchy, home thusiastic, unexcited, unimpressed,
rule, self-determination, self-govern- uninterested, uninvolved, unmoved.
ment, self-rule, sovereignty. > impa r t ia l . Opp e n t h u s ia s t ic . 2 com-
monplace, fair, mediocre, middling,
independent adj 1 carefree, inf foot- moderate, inf nothing to write home
loose, free, freethinking, individual- about, inf poorish, undistinguished,
istic, nonconformist, non-partisan, unexciting. > o r d in a r y . Opp e x c e l l e n t .
open-minded, private, self-confident,
selffeliant, separate, spontaneous, indigestion n dyspepsia, flatulence,
unbeholden, unbiased, uncommit- heartburn.
ted, unconventional, unprejudiced, indignant adj inf aerated, annoyed,
untrammelled, without ties. 2 auto- cross, disgruntled, exasperated, furi-
nomous, liberated, neutral, non- ous, heated, infuriated, inf in high
aligned, self-determining, self- dudgeon, irate, irked, irritated, livid,
governing, sovereign. mad, inf miffed, inf peeved, piqued,
 209 industry
provoked, inf put out, riled, sore, indistinguishable adj alike, ident-
upset, vexed. > a n g r y . ical, interchangeable, the same, twin,
undifferentiated. Opp d if f e r e n t .
indirect adj 1 inf all round the
houses, ambagious, bendy, cir- individual adj characteristic, differ-
cuitous, devious, erratic, long, ent, distinct, distinctive, exclusive,
meandering, oblique, rambling, idiosyncratic, individualistic, par-
roundabout, roving, tortuous, twist- ticular, peculiar, personal, private,
ing, winding, zigzag. 2 an indirect separate, singular, special, specific,
insult, ambiguous, backhanded, cir- unique. Opp c o l l e c t iv e , g e n e r a l . • n >
cumlocutory, disguised, equivocal, PERSON.
euphemistic, evasive, implicit, indoctrinate vb brainwash, im-
implied, oblique. Opp d ir e c t . plant, instruct, re-educate, train.
> TEACH.
indiscreet adj careless, foolish, ill-
induce vb 1 coax, encourage, incite,
advised, ill-considered, ill-judged,
influence, inspire, motivate, per-
impolite, impolitic, incautious, inju-
suade, press, prevail on, stimulate,
dicious, insensitive, tactless, undiplo-
sway, inf talk into, tempt, urge. Opp
matic, unguarded, unthinking,
d is c o u r a g e . 2 induce a fever, bring on,
unwise. Opp d is c r e e t . cause, effect, engender, generate,
indiscriminate adj aimless, care- give rise to, lead to, occasion, pro-
less, casual, confused, desultory, gen- duce, provoke.
eral, haphazard, inf hit or miss, inducement n attraction, bait,
imperceptive, miscellaneous, mixed, bribe, encouragement, enticement,
promiscuous, random, uncritical, incentive, spur, stimulus, inf sweet-
undifferentiated, undisceming, un- ener.
discriminating, uninformed, un- indulge vb be indulgent to, cosset,
planned, unselective, unsystematic, favour, give in to, gratify, humour,
wholesale. Opp s e l e c t iv e . mollycoddle, pamper, pander to,
indispensable adj basic, central, spoil, inf spoonfeed, treat. Opp d e pr iv e .
indulge in > e n jo y , indulge yourself
compulsory, crucial, essential, imper-
ative, important, key, mandatory, be self-indulgent, drink too much,
necessary, needed, obligatory, re- eat too much, give in to temptation,
quired, requisite, vital. Opp u n n e c e s - overdo it, overeat, spoil yourself, suc-
cumb, yield.
sa r y.
indulgent adj compliant, easygoing,
indisputable adj absolute, accepted, fond, forbearing, forgiving, genial,
acknowledged, axiomatic, beyond kind, lenient, liberal, overgenerous,
doubt, certain, clear, definite, evid- patient, permissive, tolerant. Opp
ent, incontestable, incontrovertible, s t r ic t .
indubitable, irrefutable, positive, industrious adj assiduous, busy,
proved, proven, self-evident, sure, conscientious, diligent, dynamic,
unanswerable, unarguable, undeni- earnest, energetic, enterprising,
able, undisputed, undoubted, unim- hard-working, involved, keen, la-
peachable, unquestionable. Opp borious, persistent, pertinacious,
DEBATABLE. productive, sedulous, tireless, unflag-
indistinct adj 1 bleary, blurred, ging, untiring, zealous. Opp l az y .
confused, dim, dull, faint, fuzzy, industry n 1 business, commerce,
hazy, ill-defined, indefinite, misty, manufacturing, production, trade.
obscure, shadowy, unclear, vague. 2 activity, application, commitment,
2 deadened, muffled, mumbled, determination, diligence, dynamism,
muted, slurred, unintelligible, effort, energy, enterprise, industri-
woolly. Opp DISTINCT. ousness, keenness, labour, persever-
inedible
ance, persistence, sedulousness, tire- spare, superfluous, unimportant,
lessness, toil, zeal. > w o r k . Opp l a z i- unnecessary. Opp e s s e n t ia l .
n ess. inevitable adj assured, inf bound to
inedible adj bad for you, harmful, happen, certain, destined, fated,
indigestible, nauseating, inf off, ineluctable, inescapable, inexorable,
poisonous, rotten, tough, uneatable, ordained, predictable, sure, unavoid-
unpalatable, unwholesome. Opp able. > r e l e n t l e s s .
EDIBLE. inexcusable adj > u n f o r g iv a b l e .
ineffective adj 1 fruitless, futile, inf inexpensive adj c h e a p.
hopeless, inept, unconvincing, inexperienced adj inf born yester-
unproductive, unsuccessful, useless, day, callow, inf green, immature,
vain, worthless. 2 disorganized, feck- inexpert, innocent, naive, new, pro-
less, feeble, idle, impotent, inad- bationary, raw, unaccustomed,
equate, incapable, incompetent, unfledged, uninitiated, unskilled,
ineffectual, inefficient, powerless, unsophisticated, untried, inf wet
shiftless, unenterprising, weak. Opp behind the ears, young. Opp e x pe r t .
EFFECTIVE.
inexplicable adj baffling, bewilder-
inefficient adj 1 extravagant, prod- ing, confusing, enigmatic, incom-
igal, uneconomic, wasteful. 2 > in e f - prehensible, inscrutable, insoluble,
f e c t iv e . Opp e f f ic ie n t . mysterious, mystifying, perplexing,
inelegant adj awkward, clumsy, puzzling, strange, unaccountable,
crude, gauche, graceless, inartistic, unexplainable, unfathomable, un-
rough, uncouth, ungainly, unpol- solvable. Opp s t r a ig h t f o r w a r d .
ished, unskilful, unsophisticated, infallible adj certain, dependable,
unstylish. > u g l y . Opp e l e g a n t . faultless, foolproof, impeccable,
ineligible adj disqualified, inappro- perfect, reliable, sound, sure, trust-
priate, inf out of the running, inf worthy, unbeatable, unerring, unfail-
ruled out, unacceptable, unauthor- ing. Opp FALLIBLE.
ized, unfit, unqualified, unsuitable, infamous adj disgraceful, disrep-
unworthy. Opp e l ig ib l e . utable, ill-famed, notorious, out-
inept adj 1 awkward, bumbling, rageous, well-known. > w ic k e d .
bungling, clumsy, gauche, incom- infant n baby, inf toddler, inf tot.
petent, inexpert, maladroit, unskil- > CHILD.
ful, unskilled. 2 > in a ppr o pr ia t e . infantile adj [derog] adolescent, baby-
inequality n contrast, difference, ish, childish, immature, juvenile,
discrepancy, disparity, dissimilarity, puerile. > s il l y . Opp ma t u r e .
imbalance, incongruity, prejudice. infatuated adj besotted, charmed,
Opp EQUALITY. enchanted, inf head over heels, in
inert adj apathetic, dormant, idle, love, obsessed, inf smitten.
immobile, inactive, inanimate, life- infatuation n in/crush, obsession,
less, passive, quiescent, quiet, slow', passion. > l o v e .
sluggish, static, stationary, still, infect vb 1 blight, contaminate,
supine, torpid. Opp l iv e l y . defile, poison, pollute, spoil, taint.
inertia n apathy, deadness, idleness, 2 affect, influence, inspire, touch,
immobility, inactivity, indolence, las- infected > s e pt ic .
situde, laziness, lethargy, listlessness, infection n blight, contagion, cont-
numbness, passivity, sluggishness, amination, epidemic, pestilence, pol-
torpor. Opp LIVELINESS. lution, virus. > ILLNESS.
inessential adj dispensable, expend- infectious adj catching, commun-
able, minor, needless, non-essential, icable, contagious, spreading, trans-
optional, ornamental, secondary, missible, transmittable.
 211 informal
infer vb assume, conclude, deduce, inflate vb 1 blow up, dilate, distend,
derive, draw a conclusion, extra- enlarge, puff up, pump up, swell. 2 >
polate, gather, guess, reach the con- ex a g g er a t e.
clusion, surmise, understand, work inflexible adj 1 adamantine, firm,
out.
hard, hardened, immovable, rigid,
inferior adj 1 humble, junior, lesser, solid, stiff, unbending, unyielding.
lower, lowly, mean, menial, sec- 2 adamant, entrenched, fixed,
ondary, second-class, servile, subor- immutable, inexorable, intractable,
dinate, subsidiary, unimportant. intransigent, obdurate, obstinate, inf
2 cheap, indifferent, mediocre, poor, pig-headed, refractory, resolute, rig-
shoddy, tawdiy, inf tinny. Opp s u pe r i - orous, strict, stubborn, unalterable,
o r . • n t> SUBORDINATE. unchangeable, uncompromising,
infertile adj barren, sterile, unfruit- unhelpful. Opp f l e x ib l e .
ful, unproductive. inflict vb administer, apply, deal out,
infest vb infiltrate, overrun, pervade, enforce, force, impose, mete out, per-
plague, infested alive, crawling, petrate, wreak.
swarming, teeming, verminous. influence n ascendancy, authority,
infidelity n 1 adultery, unfaithful- control, direction, dominance, effect,
ness. 2 I> DISLOYALTY. guidance, hold, impact, leverage,
power, pressure, pull, sway, weight.
infiltrate vb enter secretly, insinu-
• vb 1 affect, bias, change, control,
ate, intrude, penetrate, spy on.
direct, dominate, exert influence on,
infinite adj astronomical, big, bound- guide, impinge on, impress, manip-
less, countless, endless, eternal, ever- ulate, modify, motivate, move, per-
lasting, immeasurable, immense, suade, prejudice, prompt, put
incalculable, indeterminate, ines- pressure on, stir, sway. 2 influence
timable, inexhaustible, innumerable, a judge, bribe, corrupt, lead astray,
interminable, limitless, multitudin- suborn, tempt.
ous, never-ending, numberless, per-
influential adj authoritative, com-
petual, uncountable, undefined,
pelling, controlling, convincing,
unending, unfathomable, unlimited,
dominant, effective, far-reaching,
unnumbered, untold. > h u g e . Opp
forceful, guiding, important, inspir-
FINITE. ing, leading, moving, persuasive,
infinity n endlessness, eternity, in- potent, powerful, prestigious, signi-
finite distance, infinite quantity, ficant, strong, telling, weighty. Opp
infinitude, perpetuity, space. UNIMPORTANT.
infirm adj bedridden, crippled, influx n flood, flow, inflow, inunda-
elderly, feeble, frail, lame, old, tion, invasion, rush, stream.
poorly, senile, sickly, unwell. > il l ,
inform vb 1 advise, apprise, brief,
WEAK. Opp HEALTHY.
communicate to, enlighten, inf fill
inflame vb arouse, encourage, excite, in, give information to, instruct,
fire, foment, goad, ignite, incense, leak, notify, inf put in the picture,
incite, kindle, madden, provoke, teach, tell, inf tip off. 2 inf blab, give
rouse, stimulate, stir up, work up. information, si grass, si peach, si rat,
> a n g e r . Opp c o o l , inflamed > pa s - in/sneak, in/split on, in/tell, in/tell
s io n a t e , SEPTIC. tales, inform against t> b e t r a y .
inflammable adj burnable, com- informed > k n o w l e d g e a b l e .
bustible, flammable, volatile. Opp informal adj 1 approachable, casual,
INCOMBUSTIBLE. comfortable, cosy, easy, easygoing,
inflammation n abscess, boil, infec- everyday, familiar, free and easy,
tion, irritation, redness, sore, sore- friendly, homely, natural, ordinary,
ness, swelling. relaxed, simple, unceremonious,
information 212

unofficial, unpretentious, unsoph- inhabitant n citizen, old use denizen,

isticated. 2 informal language, chatty, dweller, inmate, native, occupant,
colloquial, personal, slangy, verna- occupier, plur population, resident,
cular. 3 an informal design, asymmet- settler, tenant, plur townsfolk, plur
rical, flexible, fluid, intuitive, townspeople.
irregular, spontaneous. Opp f o r ma l . inherent adj built-in, congenital,
information n 1 announcement, essential, fundamental, hereditary,
briefing, bulletin, communication, immanent, inborn, inbred, in-
enlightenment, instruction, mes- dwelling, ingrained, intrinsic, native,
sage, news, report, statement, old use natural.
tidings, inf tip-off, word. 2 data, data- inherit vb be the inheritor of, be left,
base, dossier, evidence, facts, intelli- inf come into, receive as an inher-
gence, knowledge, statistics. itance, succeed to. inherited > h e r -
informative adj communicative, edi- e d it a r y .
fying, educational, enlightening, fac- inheritance n bequest, birthright,
tual, giving information, helpful, estate, fortune, heritage, legacy, pat-
illuminating, instructive, meaning- rimony.
ful, revealing, useful. Opp m e a n in g - inhibit vb bridle, check, control, curb,
l ess. '
discourage, frustrate, hinder, hold
informer n si grass, informant, spy, back, prevent, quell, repress,
si stool-pigeon, inf tell-tale, traitor. restrain, inhibited > r e pr e s s e d , s h y .
infrequent adj exceptional, inter- inhibition n 1 bar, barrier, check,
mittent, irregular, occasional, inf constraint, curb, impediment, in-
once in a blue moon, rare, spas- terference, restraint, stricture.
modic, uncommon, unusual. Opp 2 blockage, diffidence, inf hang-
FREQUENT. up, repression, reserve, self-
infringe vb breach, break, contra- consciousness, shyness.
vene, defy, disobey, disregard, flout, inhospitable adj antisocial, reclus-
ignore, overstep, sin against, trans- ive, reserved, solitary, standoffish,
gress, violate. unkind, unsociable, unwelcoming.
ingenious adj adroit, artful, astute, > u n f r ie n d l y . 2 bleak, cold, comfort-
brilliant, clever, complex, crafty, cre- less, desolate, grim, hostile, lonely.
ative, cunning, deft, imaginative, Opp HOSPITABLE.
inspired, intelligent, intricate, in- inhuman adj animal, barbaric, bar-
ventive, neat, original, resourceful, barous, bestial, bloodthirsty, brutish,
shrewd, skilful, inf smart, subtle, tal- diabolical, fiendish, merciless, piti-
ented. Opp UNIMAGINATIVE. less, ruthless, savage, unnatural,
ingenuous adj artless, childlike, viciOUS. > INHUMANE. Opp HUMAN.
frank, guileless, honest, innocent, inhumane adj cold-hearted, cruel,
naive, open, plain, simple, sincere, hard, hard-hearted, heartless, incon-
trusting, unaffected, uncomplicated, siderate, insensitive, uncaring,
unsophisticated. Opp s o ph is t ic a t e d . uncharitable, uncivilized, unfeeling,
ingredient n component, con- unkind, unsympathetic. > in h u m a n .
stituent, element, factor, plur mak- Opp HUMANE.
ings, part. initial adj beginning, commencing,
inhabit vb old use abide in, colonize, earliest, first, inaugural, incipient,
dwell in, live in, make your home in, introductory, opening, original,
occupy, people, populate, possess, primary, starting. Opp f in a l .
reside in, settle in, set up home in. initiate vb activate, actuate, begin,
inhabitable adj habitable, in good commence, enter upon, get going,
repair, liveable, usable. Opp u n in h a b - get under way, inaugurate, instigate,
it a b l e . institute, introduce, launch, origin-
213 insensible
ate, set going, set in motion, set up, innovator n discoverer, experi-
start, take the initiative, trigger. menter, inventor, pioneer, reformer,
initiative n ambition, drive, dy- revolutionary.
namism, enterprise, inf get-up-and- innumerable adj countless, many,
go, inventiveness, lead, leadership, numberless, uncountable, untold.
originality, resourcefulness, take the t> INFINITE.
initiative > in it ia t e .
inquest n hearing. > in q u ir y .
injection n inf fix, inoculation, inf
jab, vaccination. inquire vb ask, explore, investigate,
seek information, inf probe, search,
injure vb break, crush, cut, damage,
survey. t> e n q u ir e .
deface, disfigure, harm, hurt, ill-
treat, impair, mar, ruin, spoil, van- inquiry n cross-examination, exam-
dalize. t> WOUND. ination, inquest, inquisition, inter-
injurious adj 1 damaging, deleteri-
rogation, investigation, poll, inf
post-mortem, inf probe, referendum,
ous, destructive, detrimental, harm-
review, study, survey.
ful, insalubrious, painful, ruinous.
2 t> ABUSIVE. inquisitive adj curious, impertinent,
injury n damage, harm, hurt, mis- indiscreet, inquiring, interfering,
chief. > WOUND. intrusive, investigative, meddlesome,
meddling, inf nosy, probing, piying,
injustice n bias, bigotry, discrim- questioning, sceptical, searching, inf
ination, dishonesty, favouritism, snooping, spying, be inquisitive t>
illegality, inequality, inequity, one- PRY.
sidedness, oppression, partiality, par-
tisanship, prejudice, unfairness, insane adj inf crazy, deranged,
unlawfulness, wrong, wrongness. lunatic, inf mental, psychotic, unbal-
Opp JUSTICE. anced, unhinged. t> m a d . Opp s a n e .
inn n old use hostelry, hotel, inf local, inscription n dedication, engraving,
pub, tavern. epigraph, superscription, writing.
inner adj central, concealed, hidden, insect n inf bug, inf creepy-crawly.
innermost, inside, interior, internal, □ ant, aphid, bee, beetle, blackfly, butter-
intimate, inward, mental, middle, fly, cicada, cockchafer, cockroach, crane-
private, secret. Opp o u t e r . fly, cricket, daddy-long-legs, damselfly,
innocence n 1 goodness, honesty, dragonfly, earwig, firefly, fly, glow-worm,
incorruptibility, purity, righteous- gnat, grasshopper, hornet, ladybird,
ness, sinlessness, virtue. 2 [derog) locust, mantis, mayfly, midge, mosquito,
gullibility, inexperience, naivety, moth, sawfly, termite, tsetse (fly), wasp,
simple-mindedness. weevil.
innocent adj 1 above suspicion, insecure adj 1 dangerous, flimsy,
angelic, blameless, chaste, childlike, loose, precarious, rickety, rocky,
faultless, free from blame, guiltless, shaky, unsafe, unsound, unstable,
harmless, honest, immaculate, incor- unsteady, unsupported, weak, wob-
rupt, inoffensive, pure, righteous, bly. 2 an insecure feeling, anxious,
sinless, spotless, untainted, virginal, apprehensive, defenceless, exposed,
virtuous. Opp c o r r u pt , g u il t y . 2 art- open, uncertain, underconfident,
less, childlike, credulous, inf green, unprotected, vulnerable, worried.
guileless, gullible, inexperienced, Opp SECURE.
ingenuous, naive, simple, simple- insensible adj anaesthetized,
minded, trusting, unsophisticated. benumbed, inf dead to the world,
innovation n change, departure, inert, insensate, insentient, knocked
invention, new feature, novelty, out, numb, inf out, senseless,
reform, revolution. unaware, unconscious. Opp c o n s c io u s .
insensitive 214

insensitive adj 1 anaesthetized, repeated, resolute, stubborn, unre-

dead, numb, unresponsive. 2 boor- lenting, unremitting, urgent,
ish, callous, crass, cruel, imper- insolence n arrogance, boldness, inf
ceptive, obtuse, tactless, inf cheek, defiance, disrespect, effront-
thick-skinned, thoughtless, uncaring, ery, impertinence, impudence, in-
unfeeling, unsympathetic. Opp s e n s - civility, insubordination, inf lip,
it iv e . presumptuousness, rudeness, inf
inseparable adj always together, sauce.
attached, indissoluble, indivisible, insolent adj arrogant, audacious,
integral. bold, brazen, inf cheeky, contemptu-
insert vb drive in, embed, implant, ous, defiant, disdainful, disrespect-
intercalate, interject, interleave, ful, forward, inf fresh, impertinent,
interpolate, interpose, introduce, impolite, impudent, insubordinate,
place in, inf pop in, push in, put in, insulting, offensive, pert, presump-
stick in, tuck in. tuous, saucy, shameless, sneering,
uncivil. > r u d e . Opp po l it e .
inside adj central, indoor, inner,
innermost, interior, internal. • n insoluble adj baffling, enigmatic,
bowels', centre, contents, core, heart, incomprehensible, inexplicable,
indoofs, interior, lining, middle. Opp mystifying, puzzling, strange, unac-
o u t s id e , insides > e n t r a il s . countable, unanswerable, unfath-
omable, unsolvable. Opp s o l u b l e .
insidious adj creeping, deceptive,
furtive, pervasive, secretive, stealthy, insolvent adj bankrupt, inf bust,
subtle, surreptitious, treacherous, failed, ruined. > po o r .
underhand. > c r a f t y . inspect vb check, examine, si give it
insignificant adj forgettable, incon- the once over, investigate, peruse,
siderable, irrelevant, insubstantial, pore over, scan, scrutinize, study,
lightweight, meaningless, minor, survey, vet.
negligible, paltry, small, trifling, triv- inspection n check, check-up, exam-
ial, undistinguished, unimportant, ination, inf going-over, investigation,
unimpressive, valueless, worthless. review, scrutiny, survey.
Opp SIGNIFICANT. inspector n controller, examiner,
insincere adj artful, crafty, deceitful, investigator, official, scrutineer,
deceptive, devious, dishonest, disin- superintendent, supervisor, tester.
genuous, dissembling, false, feigned, inspiration n 1 creativity, genius,
flattering, inf foxy, hollow, hypocrit- imagination, muse. 2 enthusiasm,
ical, lying, inf mealy-mouthed, men- impulse, incitement, influence, moti-
dacious, perfidious, inf phoney, vation, prompting, spur, stimulation,
pretended, inf put on, inf smarmy, stimulus. 3 a sudden inspiration, brain-
sycophantic, treacherous, inf two- wave, idea, insight, revelation,
faced, untrue, untruthful, wily. Opp thought.
SINCERE.
inspire vb activate, animate, arouse,
insist vb 1 assert, asseverate, aver, awaken, inf egg on, encourage, ener-
avow, declare, emphasize, hold, gize, enthuse, fire, galvanize, influ-
maintain, state, stress, swear, take ence, inspirit, instigate, kindle,
an oath, vow. 2 assert yourself, be motivate, prompt, provoke, quicken,
assertive, command, persist, inf put reassure, set off, spark off, spur,
your foot down, stand firm, inf stick stimulate, stir, support.
to your guns, insist on > d e m a n d . instability n capriciousness, change,
insistent adj assertive, demanding, changeableness, fickleness, fluctua-
dogged, emphatic, firm, forceful, tion, flux, impermanence, incon-
importunate, inexorable, obstinate, stancy, insecurity, mutability,
peremptory, persistent, relentless, precariousness, shakiness, tran-
215 instrumental
sience, uncertainty, unpredictability, institution n 1 creation, establish-
unreliability, unsteadiness, inf ups- ing, formation, founding, in-
and-downs, vacillation, variability, auguration, inception, initiation,
variations, weakness. Opp s t a b il it y . introduction, launching, opening,
install vb ensconce, establish, fit, fix, setting-up. 2 academy, asylum, col-
instate, introduce, place, plant, posi- lege, establishment, foundation,
tion, put in, settle, set up, situate, home, hospital, institute, organiza-
station. Opp r e mo v e . tion, school, in/set-up. 3 convention,
custom, habit, practice, ritual, rou-
instalment n 1 payment, rent, tine, rule, tradition.
rental. 2 chapter, episode, part.
instruct vb 1 coach, drill, educate,
instance n case, example, exemplar, indoctrinate, inform, lecture, pre-
illustration, occurrence, precedent, pare, school, teach, train, tutor.
sample. 2 authorize, brief, charge, command,
instant adj direct, fast, immediate, direct, enjoin, give the order, order,
instantaneous, on-the-spot, prompt, require, tell.
quick, rapid, speedy, split-second, instruction n 1 briefing, coaching,
swift, unhesitating, urgent. • n flash, demonstration, drill, education,
in/jiffy, moment, point of time, se- guidance, indoctrination, lecture, les-
cond, split second, inf tick, inf trice, son, schooling, teaching, training,
inf twinkling. tuition, tutorial, tutoring. 2 author-
instigate vb activate, begin, be the ization, brief, charge, command,
instigator of, bring about, cause, direction, directive, order, requisi-
encourage, foment, generate, incite, tion.
initiate, inspire, kindle, prompt, pro- instructive adj didactic, edifying,
voke, set up, start, stimulate, stir up, educational, enlightening, helpful,
urge, inf whip up. illuminating, improving, informa-
instigator n agitator, fomenter, tional, informative, instructional,
inciter, initiator, inspirer, leader, revealing.
mischief-maker, provoker, ring-
instructor n adviser, coach, trainer,
leader, troublemaker.
tutor. > t e a c h e r .
instil vb inf din into, imbue, implant,
instrument n apparatus, appliance,
inculcate, indoctrinate, infuse,
contraption, device, equipment, gad-
ingrain, inject, insinuate, introduce,
get, implement, machine, mech-
instinct n bent, faculty, feel, feeling, anism, tool, utensil, musical
guesswork, hunch, impulse, inclina- instrument □ accordion, bagpipes,
tion, instinctive urge, intuition, pre- banjo, bassoon, bugle, castanets, celesta,
sentiment, propensity, sixth-sense, cello, clarinet, clavichord, clavier, con-
the subconscious, tendency, urge. certina, cor anglais, comet, cymbals,
instinctive adj automatic, congen- double-bass, drum, dulcimer, euphonium,
ital, constitutional, inf gut, impulsive, fiddle, fife, flugelhom, flute, fortepiano,
inborn, inbred, inherent, innate, French horn, glockenspiel, gong, guitar,
instinctual, intuitive, involuntary, harmonica, harmonium, harp, harpsi-
irrational, mechanical, native, nat- chord, horn, hurdy-gurdy, kettledrum,
ural, reflex, spontaneous, subcon- keyboard, lute, lyre, mouth-organ, oboe,
scious, unconscious, unreasoning, organ, piano, piccolo, pipes, recorder,
unthinking, visceral. Opp d e l ib e r a t e . saxophone, sitar, spinet, synthesizer, tam-
bourine, timpani, triangle, trombone,
institute n > in s t it u t io n . • vb begin,
trumpet, tuba, tubular bells, ukulele, viol,
create, establish, fix up, found, inau- viola, violin, virginals, xylophone, zither.
gurate, initiate, introduce, launch,
open, organize, originate, pioneer, instrumental adj active, advant-
set up, start. ageous, beneficial, contributory,
insubordinate 216

helpful, influential, supportive, use- integral adj 1 basic, constituent,

ful, valuable. essential, fundamental, indispens-
able, intrinsic, irreplaceable, neces-
insubordinate adj defiant, dis-
sary, requisite. Opp in e s s e n t ia l . 2 an
obedient, insurgent, mutinous,
integral unit, attached, complete, full,
rebellious, riotous, seditious, undis-
indivisible, whole. Opp s e pa r a t e .
ciplined, unruly. > impe r t in e n t . Opp
OBEDIENT. integrate vb amalgamate, assemble,
blend, bring together, coalesce, com-
insufficient adj deficient, disap-
bine, consolidate, desegregate, fuse,
pointing, inadequate, incomplete, lit- harmonize, join, knit, merge, mix,
tle, meagre, mean, niggardly, inf put together, unify, unite, weld. Opp
pathetic, poor, scanty, scarce, short,
SEPARATE.
skimpy, sparse, unsatisfactory. Opp
EXCESSIVE, SUFFICIENT. integrity n 1 decency, fidelity, good-
ness, honesty, honour, incorruptibil-
insular adj closed, cut-off, isolated, ity, loyalty, morality, principle,
limited, narrow, narrow-minded, probity, rectitude, reliability, right-
parochial, provincial, remote, separ- eousness, sincerity, trustworthiness,
ated. Opp BROADMINDED, COSMOPOLITAN. uprightness, veracity, virtue. 2 >
insulate vb 1 cocoon, cover, cush- UNITY.
ion, enclose, isolate, lag, protect, intellect n inf brains, cleverness,
shield, surround, wrap up. 2 cut off, genius, mind, rationality, reason,
detach, isolate, keep apart, quar- sense, understanding, wisdom, old
antine, segregate, separate. use wit. > INTELLIGENCE.
insult n abuse, affront, aspersion, inf intellectual adj 1 academic, inf
cheek, contumely, defamation, im- bookish, cerebral, cultured, edu-
pudence, indignity, insulting be- cated, scholarly, studious, thinking,
haviour, libel, inf put-down, thoughtful. > in t e l l ig e n t . 2 cultural,
rudeness, slander, slight, slur, snub. deep, difficult, educational, high-
• vb abuse, affront, be rude to, inf brow, improving, thought-provoking.
call names, inf cock a snook at, • n academic, inf egghead, genius,
defame, dishonour, disparage, libel, highbrow, intellectual person, inf
mock, offend, outrage, patronize, mastermind, inf one of the intelli-
revile, slander, slang, slight, sneer gentsia, savant, thinker.
at, snub, inf thumb your nose at, vil-
intelligence n 1 ability, acumen,
ify. Opp c o mpl ime n t , insulting > r u d e .
alertness, astuteness, brainpower, inf
insuperable adj insurmount- brains, brightness, brilliance, capa-
able, overwhelming, unconquerable. city, cleverness, discernment, genius,
> IMPOSSIBLE. inf grey matter, insight, intellect,
insurance n assurance, cover, judgement, keenness, mind, inf nous,
indemnification, indemnity, policy, perceptiveness, perspicaciousness,
protection, security. perspicacity, quickness, reason,
sagacity, sense, sharpness, shrewd-
insure vb cover yourself, indemnify,
ness, understanding, wisdom, wit,
protect, take out insurance.
wits. 2 data, facts, information,
intact adj complete, entire, integral, knowledge, inflow-down, news, noti-
solid, sound, unbroken, undamaged, fication, report, inf tip-off, warning.
whole. > pe r f e c t . 3 espionage, secret service, spying.
intangible adj abstract, airy, disem- intelligent adj able, acute, alert,
bodied, elusive, ethereal, evanescent, astute, brainy, bright, brilliant, inf
fleeting, impalpable, imperceptible, canny, clever, discerning, educated,
imponderable, incorporeal, indef- intellectual, knowing, penetrating,
inite, insubstantial, invisible, shad- perceptive, percipient, perspicacious,
owy, unreal, vague. Opp t a n g ib l e . profound, quick, ratiocinative, ra-
217 interim
tional, reasonable, sagacious, sensi- intercept vb ambush, arrest, block,
ble, sharp, shrewd, inf smart, think- catch, check, cut off, deflect, head
ing, thoughtful, trenchant, wise, inf off, impede, interrupt, obstruct, stop,
with it, witty. Opp s t u pid . thwart, trap.
intelligible adj clear, comprehens- intercourse n 1 communication,
ible, decipherable, fathomable, leg- conversation, dealings, interaction,
ible, logical, lucid, meaningful, plain, traffic. 2 sexual intercourse, carnal
straightforward, unambiguous, under- knowledge, coition, coitus, congress,
standable. Opp INCOMPREHENSIBLE. copulation, intimacy, love-making,
intend vb aim, aspire, contemplate, mating, rape, sex, union.
design, determine, have in mind,
interest n 1 attention, attentiveness,
mean, plan, plot, propose, purpose,
resolve, scheme. care, commitment, concern, curi-
osity, involvement, notice, regard,
intense adj 1 ardent, burning, con- scrutiny. 2 of no interest, consequence,
suming, deep, eager, earnest, emo- importance, moment, note, signi-
tional, fanatical, fervent, fervid, ficance, value. 3 leisure interests, ac-
impassioned, passionate, powerful, tivity, diversion, hobby, pastime,
profound, serious, strong, towering, preoccupation, pursuit, relaxation.
vehement, violent, zealous. Opp c o o l , • vb absorb, appeal to, arouse the
h a l f -h e a r t e d . 2 intense pain, acute, curiosity of, attract, capture the
agonizing, excruciating, extreme, imagination of, captivate, concern,
fierce, great, harsh, keen, severe, divert, enchant, engage, engross,
sharp. Opp s l ig h t . entertain, enthral, fascinate, in-
intensify vb add to, aggravate, aug- trigue, involve, occupy, preoccupy,
ment, become greater, boost, build stimulate, inf turn on. > e x c it e . Opp
up, deepen, emphasize, escalate, fire, BORE.
focus, fuel, heighten, inf hot up,
interested adj 1 absorbed, attentive,
increase, magnify, make greater,
curious, engrossed, enthusiastic,
quicken, raise, redouble, reinforce,
immersed, intent, involved, keen,
sharpen, inf step up, strengthen,
occupied, preoccupied, rapt, respon-
whet. Opp r e d u c e .
sive, riveted. Opp u n in t e r e s t e d . 2 con-
intensive adj inf all-out, compre- cerned, involved, partial. > b ia s e d .
hensive, concentrated, detailed, Opp d is in t e r e s t e d .
exhaustive, high-powered, thorough,
unremitting. interesting adj absorbing, ap-
pealing, attractive, challenging,
intent adj absorbed, attentive, bent, compelling, curious, engaging, en-
committed, concentrated, con- grossing, entertaining, enthralling,
centrating, determined, eager, en- fascinating, gripping, imaginative,
grossed, enthusiastic, firm, focused, important, intriguing, inviting, orig-
keen, occupied, preoccupied, reso- inal, piquant, often ironic riveting,
lute, set, steadfast, watchful, zeal- spellbinding, unpredictable, unusual,
ous. Opp CASUAL. • Tl > INTENTION. varied. Opp b o r in g .
intention n aim, ambition, design,
end, goal, intent, object, objective, interfere vb be a busybody, butt
plan, point, purpose, target. in, interrupt, intervene, intrude,
meddle, obtrude, inf poke your nose
intentional adj calculated, con- in, piy, snoop, inf stick your oar in,
scious, contrived, deliberate, de- tamper, interfere with > o b s t r u c t .
signed, intended, knowing, planned, interfering > n o s y .
pre-arranged, preconceived, premed-
itated, prepared, studied, wilful. Opp interim adj half-time, halfway, pro-
ACCIDENTAL. visional, stopgap, temporaiy.
interior 218

interior adj > in t e r n a l . • n centre, a halt to, cut off, cut short, discon-
core, depths, heart, inside, middle, tinue, halt, stop, suspend, terminate,
nucleus. interruption n break, check, dis-
interlude n entr’acte, intermezzo, ruption, division, gap, halt, hiatus,
intermission. > in t e r v a l . interference, intrusion, stop, sus-
intermediary n agent, ambassador, pension. t> in t e r v a l .
arbiter, arbitrator, broker, go- intersect vb bisect each other, con-
between, mediator, middleman, verge, criss-cross, cross, divide, meet,
negotiator, referee, spokesperson, pass across each other.
umpire. interval n 1 adjournment, break, inf
intermediate adj average, inf breather, breathing-space, delay, dis-
betwixt and between, halfway, inter- tance, gap, hiatus, interruption,
mediary, intervening, mean, medial, lapse, lull, opening, pause, recess,
median, middle, midway, inf neither respite, rest, space, void, wait.
one thing nor the other, neutral, inf 2 entr’acte, interlude, intermezzo,
sitting on the fence, transitional. intermission.
intermittent adj broken, discontinu- intervene vb 1 come between,
ous, erratic, fitful, irregular, occa- elapse, happen, occur, pass. 2 arbit-
sional, inf on and off, periodic, rate, butt in, intercede, interfere,
rando'm, recurrent, spasmodic, spor- interpose, interrupt, intrude, medi-
adic. Opp c o n t in u o u s . ate, inf step in.
internal adj 1 inner, inside, interior. interview n appraisal, audience,
Opp e x t e r n a l . 2 confidential, hidden, duologue, formal discussion, meet-
intimate, inward, personal, private, ing, questioning, selection pro-
secret, undisclosed. cedure, vetting. • vb appraise, ask
international adj cosmopolitan, questions, evaluate, examine, inter-
global, intercontinental, universal, rogate, question, sound out, vet.
worldwide. interweave vb criss-cross, entwine,
interpret vb clarify, clear up, con- interlace, intertwine, knit, tangle,
strue, decipher, decode, define, elu- weave together.
cidate, explain, explicate, expound, intestines plur n bowels, entrails,
gloss, make clear, make sense of, innards, insides, offal.
paraphrase, render, rephrase, reword, intimate adj 1 affectionate, close,
simplify, sort out, translate, under- familiar, informal, loving, sexual.
stand, unravel, work out. > f r ie n d l y . 2 intimate details, confid-
interpretation n clarification, def- ential, detailed, exhaustive, personal,
inition, elucidation, explanation, private, secret, •no f r ie n d . • vb t>
gloss, paraphrase, reading, rendering, INDICATE.
translation, understanding, version. intimidate vb alarm, browbeat,
interrogation n cross-examination, bully, coerce, cow, daunt, dismay,
debriefing, examination, grilling, frighten, hector, make afraid, men-
inquisition, questioning, inf third ace, overawe, persecute, petrify,
degree. scare, terrify, terrorize, threaten,
interrogative adj asking, inquiring, tyrannize.
inquisitive, interrogatory, investig- intolerable adj excruciating, impos-
atory, questioning. sible, insufferable, insupportable,
interrupt vb 1 in/barge in, break in, unacceptable, unbearable, unen-
butt in, inf chime in, inf chip in, cut durable. Opp TOLERABLE.
in, disrupt, disturb, heckle, hold up, intolerant adj biased, bigoted, chau-
interfere, intervene, intrude, punc- vinistic, ciassist, discriminatory, dog-
tuate, obstruct, spoil. 2 break off, call matic, illiberal, narrow-minded,
219 invention
one-sided, opinionated, prejudiced, intruder n 1 eavesdropper, gate-
racist, sexist, uncharitable, unsym- crasher, infiltrator, interloper, inf
pathetic, xenophobic. Opp t o l e r a n t . uninvited guest. 2 burglar, house-
intonation n accent, delivety, inflec- breaker, invader, prowler, raider,
tion, modulation, pronunciation, robber, inf snooper, thief, trespasser,
sound, speech pattern, tone. intuition n insight, perceptiveness,
intoxicate vb addle, inebriate, make percipience. t> in s t in c t .
drunk, stupefy, intoxicated t> d r u n k , invade vb descend on, encroach on,
e x c it e d , intoxicating t> a l c o h o l ic , enter, impinge on, infest, infringe,
EXCITING. march into, occupy, overrun, pen-
intricate adj complex, complicated, etrate, raid, subdue, violate. t> a t t a c k .
convoluted, delicate, detailed, elab- invalid adj 1 null and void, out-of-
orate, entangled, fancy, inf fiddly, date, unacceptable, unusable, void,
involved, inf knotty, labyrinthine, worthless. 2 fallacious, false, illo-
ornate, sophisticated, tangled, tortu- gical, incorrect, irrational, spurious,
ous. Opp SIMPLE. unconvincing, unfounded, unrea-
intrigue n t> pl o t . • vb 1 appeal to, sonable, unscientific, unsound,
arouse the curiosity of, attract, untenable, untrue, wrong. Opp v a l id .
beguile, captivate, capture the inter- 31> il l . • n cripple, incurable, patient,
est of, engage, engross, excite the sufferer, valetudinarian.
curiosity of, fascinate, interest, invaluable adj incalculable, in-
stimulate, inf turn on. Opp b o r e . estimable, irreplaceable, precious,
intrinsic adj basic, essential, funda- priceless, useful. t> v a l u a b l e . Opp
mental, immanent, inborn, inbred, WORTHLESS.
in-built, inherent, native, natural, invariable adj certain, changeless,
proper, real. constant, eternal, even, immutable,
introduce vb 1 acquaint, make inflexible, permanent, predictable,
known, present. 2 announce, give an regular, reliable, rigid, solid, stable,
introduction to, lead into, preface. steady, unalterable, unchangeable,
3 add, advance, bring in, bring out, unchanging, unfailing, uniform,
broach, create, establish, inaugurate, unvarying, unwavering. Opp v a r ia b l e .
initiate, inject, insert, interpose, invasion n 1 encroachment, incur-
launch, make available, offer, phase sion, infiltration, inroad, intrusion,
in, pioneer, put forward, set up, onslaught, raid, violation. t> a t t a c k .
start, suggest, usher in. > b e g in . 2 colony, flood, horde, infestation,
introduction n foreword, inf intro, spate, stream, swarm, throng.
inf lead-in, opening, overture, pre- invasive adj burgeoning, increasing,
amble, preface, prelude, prologue. mushrooming, profuse, proliferat-
t> BEGINNING. ing, relentless, unstoppable.
introductory adj basic, early, first, invent vb coin, conceive, concoct,
fundamental, inaugural, initial, construct, contrive, inf cook up,
opening, prefatory, preliminary, create, design, devise, discover, inf
preparatory, starting. Opp f in a l . dream up, fabricate, formulate, inf
introverted adj contemplative, intro- hit upon, imagine, improvise, make
spective, inward-looking, meditative, up, originate, plan, put together,
pensive, quiet, reserved, retiring, self- think up, trump up.
contained, shy, thoughtful, unsoci- invention n 1 brainchild, coinage,
able, withdrawn. Opp e x t r o v e r t e d . contrivance, creation, design, dis-
intrude vb break in, butt in, eaves- covery. 2 contraption, device, gad-
drop, encroach, gatecrash, interfere, get. 3 deceit, fabrication, falsehood,
interpose, interrupt, intervene, join fantasy, fiction, figment, lie. 4 t>
uninvited, obtrude, inf snoop. INVENTIVENESS.
inventive 220

inventive adj clever, creative, enter- invite vb 1 ask, encourage, request,

prising, fertile, imaginative, ingeni- summon, urge. 2 attract, entice,
ous, innovative, inspired, original, solicit, tempt, inviting > a t t r a c t iv e .
resourceful. Opp b a n a l . invoice n account, bill, list, state-
inventiveness n creativity, genius, ment.
imagination, ingenuity, inspiration, invoke vb appeal to, call for, cry out
invention, originality, resourceful- for, entreat, implore, pray for, solicit,
ness. supplicate.
inventor n architect, author, inf involuntary adj automatic, con-
boffin, creator, designer, discoverer, ditioned, impulsive, instinctive,
maker, originator. mechanical, reflex, spontaneous,
unconscious, uncontrollable, unin-
inverse adj opposite, reversed, trans-
tentional, unthinking, unwitting.
posed. Opp DELIBERATE.
invert vb capsize, overturn, reverse, involve vb 1 comprise, contain,
transpose, turn upside down, upset. embrace, entail, hold, include, incor-
invest vb 1 buy stocks and shares, porate, take in. 2 affect, concern,
play the market, speculate. 2 lay out, interest, touch. 3 involve in crime.
put tp work, inf sink, use profitably, embroil, implicate, include, incrim-
venture, invest in > b u y . inate, inculpate, inf mix up. involved
> BUSY, COMPLEX.
investigate vb analyse, consider,
enquire about, examine, explore, fol- involvement n 1 activity, interest,
low up, gather evidence about, inf go participation. 2 association, com-
into, inquire into, look into, probe, plicity, entanglement, partnership.
research, scrutinize, sift (evidence), ironic adj derisive, double-edged,
study, inf suss out, weigh up. ironical, mocking, sarcastic, satirical,
investigation n enquiry, examina- wry.
tion, inquiry, inquisition, inspection, irony n double meaning, mockery,
inf post-mortem, inf probe, quest, paradox, sarcasm, satire.
research, review, scrutiny, search, irrational adj absurd, arbitrary,
study, survey. biased, crazy, emotional, emotive,
invidious adj discriminatory, objec- illogical, insane, mad, nonsensical,
tionable, offensive, undesirable, prejudiced, senseless, subjective, sur-
unfair, unjust, unwarranted. real, unconvincing, unintelligent,
unreasonable, unreasoning, unsound,
invigorating adj bracing, enliven- unthinking, wild. > s il l y . Opp r a t io n a l .
ing, exhilarating, ftesh, healthful,
health-giving, healthy, refreshing, irregular adj 1 erratic, fitful, fluctu-
rejuvenating, revitalizing, salubrious, ating, halting, haphazard, intermit-
stimulating, tonic, vitalizing. Opp tent, occasional, random, spasmodic,
EXHAUSTING. sporadic, unequal, unpredictable,
unpunctual, variable, varying, waver-
invincible adj impregnable, indes- ing. 2 abnormal, anomalous, eccen-
tructible, indomitable, insuperable, tric, exceptional, extraordinary,
invulnerable, strong, unassailable, illegal, improper, odd, peculiar,
unbeatable, unconquerable, unstop- quirky, unconventional, unofficial,
pable. unplanned, unscheduled, unusual.
invisible adj camouflaged, con- 3 irregular surface, broken, bumpy,
cealed, covered, disguised, hid- jagged, lumpy, patchy, pitted,
den, imperceptible, inconspicuous, ragged, rough, uneven, up and down.
obscured, out of sight, secret, un- Opp r e g u l a r .
detectable, unnoticeable, unnoticed, irrelevant adj inf beside the point,
unseen. Opp v is ib l e . extraneous, immaterial, impertinent,
221 item
inapplicable, inapposite, inappropri- irrigate vb flood, inundate, supply
ate, inessential, malapropos, inf water to, water.
neither here nor there, pointless,
irritable adj bad-tempered, cantan-
unconnected, unnecessary, unre-
lated. Opp RELEVANT. kerous, choleric, crabby, cross,
crotchety, crusty, curmudgeonly,
irreligious adj agnostic, atheistic, dyspeptic, easily annoyed, edgy, frac-
godless, heathen, humanist, im- tious, grumpy, ill-humoured, ill-
pious, irreverent, pagan, sinful, tempered, impatient, irascible, over-
uncommitted, unconverted, ungodly, sensitive, peevish, pettish, petulant,
unrighteous, wicked. Opp r e l ig io u s . in/prickly, querulous, in/ratty, short-
irreparable adj hopeless, incurable, tempered, snappy, testy, tetchy,
irrecoverable, irremediable, irre- touchy, waspish. > a n g r y . Opp e v e n -
trievable, irreversible, lasting, per- t e mpe r e d .
manent, unalterable. irritate vb 1 cause irritation, itch,
irreplaceable adj inimitable, price- rub, tickle, tingle. 2 t> a n n o y .
less, unique. > r a r e .
island n plur archipelago, atoll, coral
irrepressible adj boisterous, reef, isle, islet.
bouncy, in/bubbling, buoyant, ebul-
lient, resilient, uncontrollable, isolate vb cloister, cordon off, cut
ungovernable, uninhibited, unman- off, detach, exclude, insulate, keep
ageable, unrestrainable, unstop- apart, place apart, quarantine,
pable, vigorous. t> l iv e l y . Opp seclude, segregate, separate,
LETHARGIC. sequester, set apart, shut off, shut
irresistible adj compelling, out, single out. isolated > s o l it a r y .
inescapable, inexorable, irrepress- issue n 1 affair, argument, contro-
ible, not to be denied, overpowering, versy, dispute, matter, point, prob-
overriding, overwhelming, persuas- lem, question, subject, topic.
ive, powerful, relentless, seductive, 2 conclusion, consequence, effect,
strong, unavoidable, uncontrollable. end, impact, outcome, inf payoff,
Opp WEAK. repercussions, result, upshot. 3 issue
irresolute adj doubtful, fickle, flex- of a magazine, copy, edition, instal-
ible, in/hedging your bets, indecisive, ment, number, printing, publication,
open to compromise, tentative, version. • vb 1 appear, come out,
uncertain, undecided, vacillating, emerge, erupt, flow out, gush, leak,
wavering, weak, weak-willed. > h e s - rise, spring. 2 announce, bring out,
it a n t . Opp RESOLUTE. broadcast, circulate, declare, dis-
seminate, distribute, give out, make
irresponsible adj antisocial, care-
public, print, produce, promulgate,
less, conscienceless, devilmay-care, publicize, publish, put out, release,
feckless, immature, immoral, incon-
send out, supply.
siderate, negligent, rash, reckless,
selfish, shiftless, thoughtless, uneth- itch n 1 irritation, prickling, tickle,
ical, unreliable, unthinking, untrust- tingling. 2 ache, craving, desire,
worthy, Wild. Opp RESPONSIBLE. hankering, hunger, impatience, im-
irreverent adj blasphemous, disre- pulse, longing, need, restlessness,
spectful, impious, irreligious, pro- thirst, urge, wish, yearning, inf yen.
fane, sacrilegious, ungodly, unholy. • vb 1 be irritated, prickle, tickle,
t> RUDE. Opp REVERENT. tingle. 2 > d e s ir e .
irrevocable adj binding, final, fixed, item n 1 article, bit, component, con-
hard and fast, immutable, irrepar- tribution, entry, ingredient, lot, mat-
able, irretrievable, irreversible, per- ter, object, particular, thing. 2 item in
manent, settled, unalterable, a newspaper, account, article, feature,
unchangeable. notice, piece, report.
jab vb dig, elbow, nudge, poke, prod,
stab, thrust. > h it .
J jazzy adj 1 animated, rhythmic, spir-
ited, swinging, syncopated, vivacious.
jacket n casing, cover, covering, > l iv e l y . Opp s e d a t e . 2 jazzy colours.
envelope, folder, sheath, skin, wrap- bold, clashing, contrasting, flashy,
per, wrapping. > c o a t . gaudy, loud.
jaded adj 1 > w e a r y . 2 bored, inf fed jealous adj 1 bitter, covetous, envi-
up, gorged, listless, sated, satiated, ous, inf green-eyed, inf green with
inf sick and tired, surfeited. Opp l iv e l y . envy, grudging, jaundiced, resentful.
2 jealous of your reputation, careful,
jagged adj angular, barbed, broken,
chipped, denticulate, indented, ir- possessive, protective, vigilant,
regular, notched, ragged, rough, watchful.
serrated, sharp, snagged, spiky, jeer vb barrack, boo, chaff, deride,
toothed, uneven, zigzag. Opp s m o o t h . disapprove, gibe, heckle, hiss, inf
jail, jailer ns t> g a o l , g a o l e r . knock; laugh, make fun (of), mock,
scoff, sneer, taunt, inf twit. > r id ic u l e .
jam n 1 blockage, bottleneck, con-
Opp CHEER.
gestion, crush, obstruction, press,
squeeze, stoppage, throng. > c r o w d . jeopardize vb endanger, gamble,
2 difficulty, dilemma, embarrass- imperil, menace, put at risk, risk,
ment, inf fix, inf hole, inf hot water, threaten, venture.
inf pickle, plight, predicament, jerk vb jar, jiggle, jog, jolt, lurch,
quandary, tight corner, trouble. move jerkily, move suddenly, pluck,
3 conserve, jelly, marmalade, pre- pull, inf rattle, shake, tug, tweak,
serve. • vb 1 block, inf bung up, clog, twist, twitch, wrench, inf yank.
congest, cram, crowd, crush, fill,
jerky adj bouncy, bumpy, convulsive,
force, pack, obstruct, overcrowd,
erratic, fitful, jolting, jumpy, rough,
ram, squash, squeeze, stop up, stuff.
shaky, spasmodic, inf stopping and
2 prop, stick, wedge.
starting, twitchy, uncontrolled,
jar n amphora, carafe, container, uneven. Opp s t e a d y .
crock, ewer, glass, jug, mug, pitcher,
jest n, Vb > JOKE.
pot, receptacle, urn, vessel. > b o t t l e .
vb 1 jerk, jog, jolt, inf rattle, shake, jester n buffoon, clown, comedian,
shock, upset. 2 That noise jars on me. comic, fool, joker.
grate, grind, infjangle. > a n n o y , jar- jet adj > b l a c k . • n 1 flow, fountain,
ring > HARSH. gush, rush, spout, spray, spurt,
jargon n argot, cant, creole, dialect, squirt, stream. 2 nozzle, sprinkler.
idiom, language, patois, slang, ver- jetty n breakwater, groyne, landing-
nacular. stage, mole, pier, quay, wharf.
jaunt n excursion, expedition, out- jewel n brilliant, gem, gemstone,
ing, tour, trip. > j o u r n e y . ornament, precious stone, inf rock,
jaunty adj alert, breezy, bright, brisk, inf sparkler. > je w e l l e r y . □ amber,
buoyant, carefree, inf cheeky, cairngorm, carnelian, coral, diamond,
debonair, frisky, lively, perky, emerald, garnet, ivory, jade, jasper, jet,
spirited, sprightly. > h a ppy . lapis lazuli, moonstone, onyx, opal, pearl.
223 journey
rhinestone, ruby, sapphire, topaz, with, team up with. 4 join a club, affili-
turquoise. ate with, become a member of,
jeweller n goldsmith, silversmith, enlist in, enrol in, participate in, re-
gister for, sign up for, subscribe to,
jewellery n gems, jewels, or-
volunteer for. Opp l e a v e .
naments, treasure, inf sparklers.
□ bangle, beads, bracelet, brooch, chain, joint adj collaborative, collective,
charm, clasp, cuff-links, earring, locket, combined, common, communal, con-
necklace, pendant, pin, ring, signet ring, certed, cooperative, corporate, gen-
tie-pin, watch, watch-chain. eral, mutual, shared, united. Opp
s e pa r a t e . • n articulation, connection,
jilt vb abandon, break with, desert,
hinge, junction, union.
inf ditch, drop, inf dump, forsake, inf
give someone the brush-off, leave joist n beam, girder, rafter.
behind, inf leave in the lurch, joke n inf crack, funny story, inf gag,
renounce, repudiate, inf throw over, old use jape, jest, laugh, inf one-liner,
inf wash your hands of. pleasantry, pun, quip, wisecrack, wit-
jingle n 1 doggerel, rhyme, song, ticism. • vb banter, be facetious,
tune, verse. 2 chinking, clinking, jan- clown, fool about, have a laugh, jest,
gling, ringing, tinkling, tintinnabu- make jokes, quip, tease.
lation. • vb chime, chink, clink, jolly adj cheerful, delighted, gay,
jangle, ring, tinkle. > s o u n d . glad, gleeful, grinning, high-spirited,
job n 1 activity, assignment, charge, jocose, jocular, jocund, joking, jovial,
chore, duty, errand, function, house- joyful, joyous, jubilant, laughing,
work, mission, operation, project, merry, playful, rejoicing, rosy-faced,
pursuit, responsibility, role, stint, smiling, sportive. t> h a ppy . Opp s a d .
task, undertaking, work. 2 appoint- jolt vb 1 bounce, bump, jar, jerk, jog,
ment, business, calling, career, craft, shake, twitch. t> h it . 2 jolted me into
employment, livelihood, living, action, astonish, disturb, nonplus,
metier, occupation, position, post, shake up, shock, startle, stun, sur-
profession, sinecure, trade, vocation, prise.
jobless adj out of work, redundant, jostle vb crowd in on, hustle, press,
unemployed, unwaged. push, shove.
jocular adj cheerful, gay, glad, glee- jot vb jot down note, scribble, take
ful, happy, jocund, jokey, joking, down. t> WRITE.
jolly, jovial, joyous, jubilant, merry, journal n 1 gazette, magazine,
overjoyed, rejoicing. Opp s a d , s e r io u s . monthly, newsletter, newspaper,
jog vb 1 bounce, jar, jerk, joggle, jolt, paper, periodical, publication,
knock, nudge, shake. t> h it . 2 jog the review, weekly. 2 account, annals,
memory. activate, arouse, prompt, chronicle, diary, dossier, history, log,
refresh, remind, set off, stimulate, memoir, record, scrapbook.
stir. 3 jog round the park, exercise, journalist n broadcaster, columnist,
lope, run, trot. contributor, correspondent, derog
join n connection, joint, knot, link, hack, inf newshound, newspaper-
mend, seam. • vb 1 add, amalgamate, man, newspaperwoman, pressman,
attach, combine, connect, couple, reporter, writer.
dock, dovetail, fit, fix, juxtapose, journey n excursion, expedition, itin-
knit, link, marry, merge, put erary, jaunt, mission, odyssey, out-
together, splice, tack on, unite, yoke. ing, peregrination, progress, route,
t> f a s t e n . Opp s e pa r a t e . 2 abut, adjoin, tour, transition, travelling, trip, wan-
border on, come together, converge, dering. □ cruise, drive, flight, hike, joy-
meet, touch, verge on. 3 join a crowd. ride, pilgrimage, ramble, ride, run,
accompany, associate with, follow, safari, sail, sea crossing, sea passage,
go with, inf latch on to, tag along trek, voyage, walk. • vb > t r a v e l .
 224
joy
joy n bliss, cheer, cheerfulness, criminating, enlightened, expedient,
delight, ecstasy, elation, euphoria, judicial, politic, prudent, sage, sens-
exaltation, exhilaration, exultation, ible, shrewd, sober, thoughtful, well-
felicity, gaiety, gladness, glee, grati- advised, well-judged. t> w is e .
fication, happiness, high spirits, jug n bottle, carafe, container,
hilarity, jocularity, joviality, joyful- decanter, ewer, flagon, flask, jar,
ness, joyousness, jubilation, light- pitcher, vessel.
heartedness, merriment, mirth,
juggle vb alter, inf cook, inf doctor,
pleasure, rapture, rejoicing, triumph.
Opp SORROW. falsify, inf fix, manipulate, misrep-
resent, move about, rearrange, rig,
joyful adj buoyant, cheerful, tamper.
delighted, ecstatic, elated, euphoric,
exhilarated, exultant, gay, glad, glee- juice n drink, extract, fluid, liquid,
ful, jocund, jolly, jovial, joyous, jubil- sap.
ant, light-hearted, merry, oveijoyed, juicy adj lush, moist, soft, inf
pleased, rapturous, rejoicing, tri- squelchy, succulent, wet. Opp d r y .
umphant. t> HAPPY. Opp SAD. jumble n chaos, clutter, confusion,
jubilee n anniversary, celebration, disarray, disorder, farrago, hotch-
commemoration, festival. potch, mess, muddle, tangle. • vb
judge n 1 si beak, justice, magistrate. confuse, disarrange, disorganize, inf
2 adjudicator, arbiter, arbitrator, mess up, mingle, mix up, muddle,
moderator, referee, umpire. 3 judge of shuffle, tangle. Opp a r r a n g e .
wine, authority, connoisseur, critic, jump n 1 bounce, bound, hop, leap,
expert, reviewer. • vb 1 condemn, pounce, skip, spring, vault. 2 ditch,
convict, examine, pass judgement fence, gap, gate, hurdle, obstacle. 3 a
on, pronounce judgement on, pun- jump in prices. t> r is e . • vb 1 bounce,
ish, sentence, try. 2 adjudicate, medi- bound, caper, dance, frisk, frolic, gam-
ate, moderate, referee, umpire. bol, hop, leap, pounce, prance, skip,
3 believe, conclude, consider, decide, spring. 2 jump a fence, clear, hurdle,
decree, deem, determine, estimate, vault. 3 jump in surprise, flinch, recoil,
gauge, guess, reckon, rule, suppose. start, wince, jump on t> a t t a c k , make
4 judge others, appraise, assess, criti- someone jump t> s t a r t l e .
cize, evaluate, give your opinion of,
junction n confluence, connection,
rate, rebuke, scold, sit in judgement
on, size up, weigh. corner, crossroads, interchange,
intersection, joining, juncture, inf
judgement n 1 arbitration, award, link-up, meeting, points, T-junction,
conclusion, conviction, decision, union.
decree, old use doom, finding, out-
come, penalty, punishment, result, jungle n forest, rain-forest, tangle,
ruling, verdict. 2 use your judgement, undergrowth, woods.
acumen, common sense, discern- junior adj inferior, lesser, lower,
ment, discretion, discrimination, minor, secondaiy, subordinate, sub-
expertise, good sense, reason, wis- sidiaiy, younger. Opp s e n io r .
dom. t> in t e l l ig e n c e . 3 in my judge- junk n clutter, debris, flotsam and
ment. assessment, belief, estimation, jetsam, garbage, litter, lumber, odd-
evaluation, idea, impression, mind, ments, odds and ends, refuse, rub-
notion, opinion, point of view, valu- bish, rummage, scrap, trash, waste. •
ation. vb t> DISCARD.
judicial adj 1 forensic, legal, official. just adj apt, deserved, equitable, eth-
2 t> JUDICIOUS. ical, even-handed, fair, fair-minded,
judicious adj appropriate, astute, honest, impartial, justified, lawful,
careful, circumspect, considered, legal, legitimate, merited, neutral,
diplomatic, discerning, discreet, dis- proper, reasonable, rightful, right-
225 juvenile
minded, unbiased, unprejudiced, justify vb condone, defend, exculp-
upright. > MORAL. Opp UNJUST. ate, excuse, exonerate, explain,
justice n 1 equity, even-handedness, explain away, forgive, legitimate,
fair-mindedness, fair play, impar- legitimize, pardon, rationalize, sub-
tiality, integrity, legality, neutrality, stantiate, support, sustain, uphold,
objectivity, right. > mo r a l it y . 2 the validate, vindicate, warrant.
law, legal proceedings, the police, jut vb beetle, extend, overhang, poke
punishment, retribution, vengeance. out, project, protrude, stick out. Opp
justifiable adj acceptable, allowable, RECEDE.
defensible, excusable, forgivable, juvenile adj 1 babyish, childish,
justified, lawful, legitimate, par- immature, infantile, puerile, un-
donable, permissible, reasonable, sophisticated. 2 adolescent, inf teen-
understandable, warranted. Opp age, underage, young, youthful. Opp
UNJUSTIFIABLE. MATURE.
 I<
keen adj 1 active, ambitious, t> s t a y , keep to > f o l l o w , o b e y , keep
anxious, ardent, assiduous, avid, up > pr o l o n g , s u s t a in .
bright, clever, committed, dedicated, keeper n caretaker, curator, custo-
devoted, diligent, eager, enthusias- dian, gaoler, guard, guardian, inf
tic, fervent, fervid, industrious, intel- minder, warden, warder.
ligent, intense, intent, interested, kernel n centre, core, essence, heart,
motivated, passionate, quick, zeal- middle, nub, pith.
ous. 2 a keen knife, knife-edged, pierc-
key n 1 answer, clarification, clue,
ing, razorsharp, sharp, sharpened.
explanation, indicator, pointer,
3 a keen wit. acerbic, add, acute, bit-
secret, solution. 2 key to a map. glos-
ing, Clever, cutting, discerning, in-
sary, guide, index, legend.
cisive, lively, mordant, observant,
pungent, rapier-like, sarcastic, satir- keyboard n □ accordion, celesta, clavi-
ical, scathing, shrewd, sophisticated, chord, clavier, fortepiano, harmonium,
stinging. 4 keen eyesight, acute, clear, harpsichord, organ, piano, old use
fine, perceptive, sensitive. 5 a keen pianoforte, spinet, synthesizer, virginals.
wind, bitter, cold, extreme, icy, kick vb boot, heel, punt. t> h it .
intense, penetrating, severe. 6 keen kidnap vb abduct, capture, carry off,
prices, competitive, low, rock-bottom. run away with, seize, snatch.
Opp APATHETIC, DULL. kill vb annihilate, assassinate, be the
keep vb 1 accumulate, amass, con- killer of, si bump off, butcher, cull,
serve, guard, hang on to, hoard, hold, decimate, destroy, inf dispatch, inf do
maintain, preserve, protect, put away with, si do in, execute, exterm-
aside, put away, retain, safeguard, inate, inf finish off, inf knock off,
save, store, stow away, withhold. liquidate, martyr, massacre, murder,
2 keep going, carry on, continue, do put down, put to death, put to sleep,
again and again, do for a long time, slaughter, slay, inf snuff out, take
keep on, persevere in, persist in. life, Amer si waste. □ behead, brain,
3 keep left. remain, stay. 4 keep a fam- choke, crucify, decapitate, disembowel,
ily. be responsible for, care for, cher- drown, electrocute, eviscerate, garrotte,
ish, feed, finance, foster, guard, have gas, guillotine, hang, knife, lynch, poison,
charge of, look after, maintain, man- pole-axe, shoot, smother, stab, starve,
age, mind, own, pay for, protect, pro- stifle, stone, strangle, suffocate, throttle.
vide for, subsidize, support, take killer n assassin, butcher, cutthroat,
charge of, tend, watch over. 5 keep a destroyer, executioner, extermin-
birthday, celebrate, commemorate, ator, gunman, si hit man, murderer,
mark, observe, solemnize. 6 food slayer.
keeps in the fridge, be preserved, be killing n annihilation, assassination,
usable, last, survive, stay fresh, stay bloodbath, bloodshed, butchery,
good. 7 won’t keep you. block, check, carnage, decimation, destruction,
confine, curb, delay, detain, deter, elimination, eradication, euthanasia,
get in the way of, hamper, hinder, execution, extermination, extinction,
hold up, impede, imprison, obstruct, fratricide, genocide, homicide, infan-
prevent, restrain, retard, keep still ticide, liquidation, manslaughter,
227 know
martyrdom, massacre, matricide, implements, luggage, outfit, para-
murder, parricide, patricide, pogrom, phernalia, rig, supplies, tackle, tools,
regicide, slaughter, sororicide, sui- tools of the trade, utensils.
cide, unlawful killing, uxoricide. kitchen n cookhouse, galley, kit-
kin n clan, family, inf folks, kindred, chenette, scullery.
kith and kin, relations, relatives. knack n ability, adroitness, aptitude,
kind adj accommodating, affable, art, bent, dexterity, expertise, facility,
affectionate, agreeable, altruistic, flair, genius, gift, habit, intuition, inf
amenable, amiable, amicable, know-how, skill, talent, trick, inf way.
approachable, attentive, avuncular, knapsack n backpack, haversack,
beneficent, benevolent, benign, rucksack.
bountiful, brotherly, caring, charit-
able, comforting, compassionate, knead vb manipulate, massage,
congenial, considerate, cordial, pound, press, pummel, squeeze,
courteous, encouraging, fatherly, work.
favourable, friendly, generous, kneel vb bend, bow, crouch, fall to
genial, gentle, good-natured, good- your knees, genuflect, stoop.
tempered, gracious, helpful, hos- knickers plur n old use bloomers,
pitable, humane, humanitarian, boxer-shorts, briefs, drawers,
indulgent, kind-hearted, kindly, panties, pants, shorts, trunks, under-
lenient, loving, merciful, mild, moth- pants.
erly, neighbourly, nice, obliging, knife n blade. □ butter-knife, carving-
patient, philanthropic, pleasant,
knife, clasp-knife, cleaver, dagger, flick-
polite, public-spirited, sensitive, knife, machete, penknife, pocket-knife,
sisterly, soft-hearted, sweet, sym- scalpel, sheath knife. • vb cut, pierce,
pathetic, tactful, tender, tender- slash, stab. > k il l , w o u n d .
hearted, thoughtful, tolerant,
understanding, unselfish, warm, knit vb 1 crochet, weave. 2 bind, com-
warm-hearted, well-intentioned, bine, connect, fasten, heal, interlace,
well-meaning, well-meant. Opp interweave, join, knot, link, marry,
u n k in d . • n brand, breed, category, mend, tie, unite, knit your brow i>
class, description, family, form, FROWN.
genre, genus, make, manner, nature, knob n boss, bulge, bump, handle,
persuasion, race, set, sort, species, lump, projection, protrusion, protu-
style, type, variety. berance, stud, swelling.
kindle vb 1 bum, fire, ignite, light, knock vb 1 bang, inf bash, buffet,
set alight, set fire to, spark off. 2 > bump, pound, rap, smack, old use
AROUSE. smite, strike, tap, thump. > h it . 2 >
king n 1 crowned head, His Majesty, c r it ic iz e , knock down > DEMOLISH,
monarch, ruler, sovereign. 2 > c h ie f . knock off i> c e a s e , knock out i> s t u n .

kingdom n country, empire, land, knot n 1 bond, bow, ligature, tangle,

monarchy, realm. tie. 2 > g r o u p . • vb bind, do up,
entangle, entwine, join, knit, lash,
kink n 1 bend, coil, crimp, crinkle,
link, tether, tie, unite. > f a s t e n . Opp
curl, knot, loop, tangle, twist, wave. UNTIE.
2 > QUIRK.
know vb 1 be certain, have confid-
kiosk n booth, stall. □ bookstall, news-
ence, have no doubt. 2 know facts, be
stand, telephone-box. cognizant of, be familiar with, be
kiss vb caress, embrace, si neck, knowledgeable about, comprehend,
osculate, old use spoon. > t o u c h . discern, have experience of, have in
kit n accoutrements, apparatus, mind, realize, remember, under-
appurtenances, baggage, effects, stand. 3 know a person, be acquainted
equipment, gear, joc impedimenta, with, be a friend of, be friends with.
know-all 228

4 differentiate, distinguish, identify, sciousness, education, erudition,

make out, perceive, recognize, see. experience, expertise, familiarity,
know-all n expert, pundit, inf show- grasp, insight, inf know-how, learn-
off, wiseacre. ing, lore, memoiy, science, scholar-
•ship, skill, sophistication, technique,
knowing adj astute, clever, conspir- training. Opp ig n o r a n c e .
atorial, cunning, discerning, experi-
enced, expressive, meaningful, knowledgeable adj Fr au fait,
perceptive, shrewd. > c u n n in g , k n o w - aware, cognizant, conversant, edu-
l e d g e a b l e . Opp INNOCENT. cated, enlightened, erudite, experi-
knowledge n 1 data, facts, infor- enced, expert, familiar (with), si
mation, intelligence, si low-down. genned up, informed, inf in the
2 acquaintance, awareness, back- know, learned, scholarly, versed (in),
ground, cognition, competence, con- well-informed. Opp ig n o r a n t .
 L
label n brand, docket, hallmark, lack n absence, dearth, deficiency,
identification, imprint, logo, marker, deprivation, famine, insufficiency,
sticker, tag, ticket, trademark. • vb need, paucity, privation, scarcity,
brand, call, categorize, class, classify, shortage, want. Opp pl e n t y . • vb be
define, describe, docket, identify, lacking in, be short of, be without,
mark, name, pigeon-hole, stamp, tag. miss, need, require, want.
laborious adj 1 arduous, back- lacking adj defective, deficient, inad-
breaking, difficult, exhausting, equate, insufficient, short, unsatis-
fatiguing, gruelling, hard, heavy, her- factory, weak. > s t u pid .
culean, onerous, stiff, strenuous, laden adj burdened, inf chock-full,
taxing, tiresome, tough, uphill, fraught, full, hampered, loaded,
wearisome, wearying. Opp e a s y . 2 a oppressed, piled high, weighed
laborious style, artificial, contrived, down.
forced, heavy, laboured, overdone, lady n 1 wife, woman. > f e ma l e .
overworked, pedestrian, ponderous, 2 aristocrat, peeress. > t it l e .
strained, unnatural. Opp f l u e n t .
ladylike adj aristocratic, courtly, cul-
labour n 1 inf donkey-work, tured, dainty, decorous, elegant, gen-
drudgery, effort, exertion, industry, teel, modest, noble, polished, posh,
nawying, inf pains, slavery, strain, prim and proper, derog prissy,
inf sweat, toil, work. 2 employees, old refined, respectable, well-born, well-
use hands, wage-earners, workers, bred. > POLITE.
workforce. 3 childbirth, contractions,
lag vb 1 be slow, in/bring up the rear,
delivery, labour pains, parturition,
come last, dally, dawdle, delay, drop
old use travail. • vb drudge, exert
behind, fall behind, go too slow,
yourself, navvy, inf slave, strain,
hang about, hang back, idle, linger,
strive, struggle, inf sweat, toil, travail.
loiter, saunter, straggle, trail. 2 lag
> w o r k , laboured > l a b o r io u s .
pipes, insulate, wrap up.
labourer n blue-collar worker,
lair n den, hide-out, hiding-place,
employee, old use hand, manual
refuge, resting-place, retreat, shelter.
worker, inf navvy, wage-earner,
worker. lake n boating-lake, lagoon, lido, Scot
loch, mere, pool, pond, reservoir, sea,
labour-saving adj convenient,
tarn, water.
handy, helpful, time-saving.
lame adj 1 crippled, disabled, halting,
labyrinth n complex, jungle, maze,
handicapped, hobbled, hobbling,
network, tangle. incapacitated, limping, maimed,
lace n 1 filigree, mesh, net, netting, spavined. 2 a lame leg. dragging,
openwork, tatting, web. 2 bootlace, game, inf gammy, injured, stiff. 3 a
cord, shoelace, string, thong. • vb > lame excuse, feeble, flimsy, inad-
FASTEN. equate, poor, tame, thin, unconvin-
lacerate vb claw, cut, gash, graze, cing, weak. • vb cripple, disable,
mangle, rip, scrape, scratch, slash, hobble, incapacitate, maim, be lame
tear. > w o u n d . > LIMP.
lament 230

lament n dirge, elegy, lamentation, dialect, formal language, idiolect, idiom,

moaning, monody, mourning, informal language, jargon, journalese,
requiem, threnody. • vb bemoan, lingua franca, inf lingo, patois, register,
bewail, complain, cry, deplore, slang, vernacular. 2 linguistics. □ ety-
express your sorrow, grieve, keen, mology, lexicography, orthography,
mourn, regret, shed tears, sorrow, philology, phonetics, psycholinguistics,
wail, weep. semantics, semiotics, sociolinguistics.
lamentable adj deplorable, regret- 3 computer language, code, system of
table, unfortunate, unhappy. t> s a d . signs.
lamentation n complaints, crying, languid adj apathetic, inf droopy,
grief, grieving, lamenting, moaning, feeble, inactive, inert, lackadais-
mourning, regrets, sobbing, tears, ical, lazy, lethargic, slow, sluggish,
wailing, weeping. torpid, unenthusiastic, weak. Opp
ENERGETIC.
lamp n bulb, fluorescent lamp, head-
lamp, lantern, standard lamp, street languish vb decline, flag, lose
light, torch. t> l ig h t . momentum, mope, pine, slow down,
stagnate, suffer, sulk, waste away,
land -n 1 coast, ground, landfall, weaken, wither. Opp f l o u r is h .
shore, joc terra firma. 2 lie of the land.
geography, landscape, terrain, topo- lank adj 1 drooping, lifeless, limp,
graphy. 3 country, fatherland, home- long, straight, thin. 2 t> l a n k y .
land, motherland, nation, region, lanky adj angular, awkward, bony,
state, territory. 4 earth, farmland, gangling, gaunt, lank, lean, long,
soil. 5 land you own. estate, grounds, scraggy, scrawny, skinny, tall, thin,
property. • vb 1 alight, arrive, berth, ungraceful, weedy. Opp g r a c e f u l ,
come ashore, come to rest, disem- STURDY.
bark, dismount, dock, end a journey,
lap n 1 knees, thighs. 2 circle, cir-
get down, go ashore, light, reach
cuit, course, orbit, revolution. • vb >
landfall, settle, touch down. 2 land
DRINK.
yourself a job. t> g e t .
lapse n 1 backsliding, blunder,
landing n 1 docking, re-entry,
return, splashdown, touchdown. decline, error, failing, fault, flaw,
2 alighting, arrival, deplaning, dis-
mistake, omission, relapse, short-
embarkation. 3 > LANDING-STAGE. coming, slip, inf slip-up, temporary
failure, weakness. 2 lapse of time.
landing-stage n berth, dock, har- break, gap, hiatus, inf hold-up, inter-
bour, jetty, landing, pier, quay, mission, interruption, interval,
wharf. lacuna, lull, pause. • vb 1 decline,
landlady, deteriorate, diminish, drop, fall, sink,
landlord ns 1 host, hostess, hotelier, slide, slip, slump, subside. 2 My mem-
old use innkeeper, licensee, publican, bership lapsed, become invalid, expire,
restaurateur. 2 landowner, lessor, finish, run out, stop, terminate.
letter, manager, manageress, owner, large adj above average, abundant,
proprietor. ample, big, bold, broad, bulky, burly,
landmark n 1 feature, guidepost, capacious, colossal, commodious,
high point, identification, visible fea- considerable, copious, elephantine,
ture. 2 milestone, new era, turning- enormous, extensive, fat, formidable,
point, watershed. gargantuan, generous, giant, gigan-
tic, grand, great, heavy, hefty, high,
landscape n aspect, countryside, huge, infhulking, immense, immea-
outlook, panorama, prospect, rural surable, impressive, incalculable,
scene, scene, scenery, view, vista. infinite, infjumbo, inf king-sized, lar-
language n 1 parlance, speech, gish, lofty, long, mammoth, massive,
tongue. □ argot, cant, colloquialism, mighty, monstrous, monumental,
231 lawless
mountainous, outsize, overgrown, snickering, sniggering, tittering. >
oversized, prodigious, inf roomy, size- RIDICULE.
able, spacious, substantial, swinge-
ing (increase), tall, thick, inf launch vb 1 begin, embark on, estab-
thumping, inf tidy (sum), titanic, tow- lish, float, found, inaugurate, initi-
ering, inf tremendous, vast, volumi- ate, open, organize, set in motion,
nous, weighty, inf whacking, inf set off, set up, start. 2 blast off,
whopping, wide. Opp s ma l l . catapult, dispatch, fire, propel, send
off, set off, shoot.
larva n caterpillar, grub, maggot.
lavatory n bathroom, cloakroom,
lash n > w h ip . • vb 1 beat, birch,
cane, flail, flog, scourge, strike, convenience, inf Gents, inf Ladies,
thrash, whip. > h it . 2 > c r it ic iz e . latrine, inf loo, inf men’s room, child-
ish potty, old use privy, public con-
last adj closing, concluding, final, venience, toilet, urinal, water-closet,
furthest, hindmost, latest, most WC, inf women’s room.
recent, rearmost, terminal, termin-
ating, ultimate. Opp f ir s t . • vb carry lavish adj 1 abundant, bountiful,
on, continue, endure, hold, hold out, copious, exuberant, free, generous,
keep on, linger, live, persist, remain, liberal, luxuriant, luxurious, muni-
stay, survive, inf wear well. Opp d ie , ficent, opulent, plentiful, profuse,
f in is h , lasting > pe r m a n e n t . sumptuous, unselfish, unsparing,
unstinting. 2 excessive, extravagant,
late adj 1 behindhand, belated,
improvident, prodigal, self-indulgent,
delayed, dilatory, overdue, slow, wasteful. Opp e c o n o mic a l .
tardy, unpunctual. 2 a late edition.
current, last, new, recent, up-to-date. law n 1 act, bill [= draft law], bylaw,
3 the late king, dead, deceased, commandment, decree, directive,
departed, ex-, former, past, previous. edict, injunction, mandate, measure,
latent adj dormant, hidden, invis- order, ordinance, pronouncement,
ible, potential, undeveloped, undis- regulation, rule, statute. 2 laws of sci-
covered. ence. axiom, formula, postulate, prin-
ciple, proposition, theoiy. 3 laws of
latitude n inf elbow-room, freedom, decency, code, convention, practice.
leeway, liberty, room, scope, space. 4 court of law. justice, litigation.
latter adj closing, concluding, last,
law-abiding adj compliant, decent,
last-mentioned, later, recent, second.
disciplined, good, honest, obedi-
Opp FORMER.
ent, orderly, peaceable, peaceful,
lattice n criss-cross, framework, respectable, well-behaved. Opp l a w -
grid, mesh, trellis. l ess.
laugh vb beam, be amused, burst lawful adj allowable, allowed, au-
into laughter, chortle, chuckle, si fall thorized, constitutional, documen-
about, giggle, grin, guffaw, roar with ted, just, justifiable, legal, legitimate,
laughter, simper, smile, smirk, sneer, permissible, permitted, prescribed,
snicker, snigger, inf split your sides, proper, recognized, regular, right,
titter, laugh at > r id ic u l e . rightful, valid. Opp il l e g a l .
laughable adj absurd, derisory, lu-
dicrous, preposterous, ridiculous. lawless adj anarchic, anarchical,
> FUNNY. badly-behaved, chaotic, disobedient,
disorderly, illdisciplined, insubor-
laughing-stock n butt, figure of dinate, mutinous, rebellious, riotous,
fun, victim. rowdy, seditious, turbulent, uncon-
laughter n chuckling, giggling, guf- trolled, undisciplined, ungoyerned,
fawing, hilarity, inf hysterics, laugh- unregulated, unrestrained, unruly,
ing, laughs, merriment, mirth, Wild. > WICKED. Opp LAW-ABIDING.
lawlessness 232

lawlessness n anarchy, chaos, dis- ENERGETIC, INDUSTRIOUS, be lazy > LAZE,

obedience, disorder, mob-rule, rebel- lazy person > s l a c k e r .
lion, rioting. Opp o r d e r . lead n 1 direction, example, guid-
lawyer n advocate, barrister, coun- ance, leadership, model, pattern,
sel, legal representative, member of • precedent. 2 lead on a crime, clue,
the bar, solicitor. hint, line, tip, tip-off. 3 lead in a race.
lax adj careless, casual, easygoing, first place, front, spearhead, van,
flexible, indulgent, lenient, loose, vanguard. 4 lead in a play, chief part,
neglectful, negligent, permissive, hero, heroine, principal, protagonist,
relaxed, remiss, slack, slipshod, unre- starring role, title role. 5 cable, flex,
liable, vague. Opp s t r ic t . wire. 6 dog’s lead, chain, leash, strap.
• vb 1 conduct, draw, escort, guide,
laxative n aperient, enema, pur-
influence, pilot, prompt, show the
gative.
way, steer, usher. 2 be in charge of,
lay vb 1 apply, arrange, deposit, leave, captain, command, direct, govern,
place, position, put down, rest, set head, manage, preside over, rule, inf
down, set out, spread. 2 lay founda- skipper, superintend, supervise. 3 be
tions^ build, construct, establish. 3 lay first, be in front, be in the lead, go
the blame on someone, ascribe, assign, first, head the field. 4 lead the field.
attribute, burden, charge, impose, beat, defeat, excel, outdo, outstrip,
plant, inf saddle. 4 lay plans, concoct, precede, surpass, vanquish. Opp f o l -
create, design, organize, plan, set up. l o w , lead astray MISLEAD, leading
lay bare t> r e v e a l , lay bets > g a mb l e . t> CHIEF, INFLUENTIAL, lead off t> BEGIN.
lay by s t o r e , lay down the law >
DICTATE, lay in > STORE, lay into t> leader n 1 ayatollah, boss, captain,
ATTACK, lay low > d e f e a t , lay off chieftain, commander, conductor,
something e > CEASE, lay someone off courier, demagogue, director, figure-
> d is mis s , lay to rest t> b u r y , lay up head, godfather, guide, head, pat-
t> s t o r e , lay waste t> d e s t r o y . riarch, premier, prime minister,
principal, ringleader, superior, inf
layer n 1 coat, coating, covering,
supremo. > c h ie f , r u l e r . 2 leader in a
film, sheet, skin, surface, thickness. newspaper, editorial, leading article.
2 layer of rock, seam, stratum, sub-
stratum. in layers laminated, lay- leaf n 1 blade, foliage, frond, green-
ered, sandwiched, stratified. ery. 2 folio, page, sheet.
layman n 1 amateur, nonspecialist, leaflet n advertisement, bill, booklet,
untrained person. Opp pr o f e s s io n a l . brochure, circular, flyer, folder,
2 (church] layperson, member of the handbill, handout, notice, pamphlet.
congregation, parishioner, unor- league n alliance, association, coali-
dained person. Opp c l e r g y ma n . tion, confederation, derog conspiracy,
laze vb be lazy, do nothing, idle, lie federation, fraternity, guild, society,
about, loaf, lounge, relax, sit about, union. > g r o u p , be in league with t>
unwind. CONSPIRE.
laziness n dilatoriness, idleness, leak n 1 discharge, drip, emission,
inactivity, indolence, lethargy, loaf- escape, exudation, leakage, oozing,
ing, lounging about, shiftlessness, seepage, trickle. 2 aperture, break,
slackness, sloth, slowness, sluggish- chink, crack, crevice, cut, fissure,
ness, torpor. Opp in d u s t r y . flaw, hole, opening, perforation,
lazy adj 1 dilatory, easily pleased, puncture, rent, split, tear. 3 security
easygoing, idle, inactive, indolent, leak, disclosure, revelation. • vb 1 dis-
languid, lethargic, listless, shiftless, charge, drip, escape, exude, ooze,
inf skiving, slack, slothful, slow, slug- percolate, seep, spill, trickle. 2 leak
gish, torpid, unenterprising, work- secrets, disclose, divulge, give away,
shy. 2 peaceful, quiet, relaxing. Opp let out, let slip, inf let the cat out of
233 legal
the bag about, make known, pass on, decamp, depart, disappear, si do a
reveal, inf spill the beans about. bunk, escape, exeunt [they go out], exit
leaky adj cracked, dripping, holed, [he/she goes out], get away, get out, go
perforated, punctured. away, go out, si hop it, inf pull out, si
push off, retire, retreat, run away,
lean adj angular, bony, emaciated, say goodbye, set off, inf take off, take
gangling, gaunt, hungiy-looking, your leave, withdraw. 2 abandon,
lanky, long, rangy, scraggy, scrawny, desert, evacuate, forsake, vacate.
skinny, slender, slim, spare, thin, 3 leave your job. inf chuck in, inf drop
weedy, wiry. Opp f a t . • vb 1 bank, out of, give up, quit, relinquish,
careen, heel over, incline, keel over, renounce, resign from, retire from,
list, slant, slope, tilt, tip. 2 loll, prop inf walk out of, inf wash your hands
yourself up, recline, rest, support of. 4 leave it there, allow to stay, inf let
yourself. alone, let be. 5 left it here, deposit,
leaning n bent, bias, favouritism, place, position, put down, set down.
inclination, instinct, liking, partial- 6 lejt it somewhere, forget, lose, mislay.
ity, penchant, predilection, prefer- 7 leave it to you. assign, cede, consign,
ence, propensity, readiness, taste, entrust, refer, relinquish. 8 leave in a
tendency, trend. will, bequeath, hand down, will,
leap vb 1 bound, clear (a fence), hop leave off > s t o p , leave out > o mit .
over, hurdle, jump, leapfrog, skip lecture n 1 address, discourse, dis-
over, spring, vault. 2 caper, cavort, quisition, instruction, lesson, paper,
dance, frisk, frolic, gambol, hop, speech, talk, treatise. 2 lecture on bad
prance, romp. 3 leap on someone. manners, diatribe, harangue, sermon.
ambush, attack, pounce. > r e pr im a n d . • vb 1 be a lecturer,
learn vb acquire, ascertain, assimil- teach. 2 discourse, give a lecture,
ate, become aware of, become pro- harangue, inf hold forth, pontific-
ficient in, be taught, inf catch on, ate, preach, sermonize, speak, talk
commit to memory, discover, find formally. 3 > r e pr ima n d .
out, gain, gain understanding of, lecturer n don, fellow, instructor,
gather, grasp, master, memorize, inf professor, speaker, teacher, tutor.
mug up, pick up, remember, study, ledge n mantel, overhang, projec-
inf swot up. learned > a c a d e mic , e d u - tion, ridge, shelf, sill, step, window-
c a t ed .
sill.
learner n apprentice, beginner,
left adj, n 1 left-hand, port [= left fac-
cadet, initiate, L-driver, novice, pupil, ing bow of ship], sinistral. 2 lejt wing in
scholar, starter, student, trainee, tiro. politics, communist, Labour, leftist,
learning n culture, education, eru- liberal, Marxist, progressive, radical,
dition, information, knowledge, lore, derog red, revolutionary, socialist.
scholarship, wisdom. Opp RIGHT.
lease n agreement, contract. • vb leg n 1 limb, member, inf peg, inf pin,
charter, hire out, let, rent out, sublet. shank. □ ankle, calf, foot, hock, knee,
least adj fewest, lowest, minimum, shin, thigh. 2 brace, column, pillar,
negligible, poorest, slightest, small- prop, support, upright. 3 leg of a jour-
est, tiniest. ney. lap, length, part, section, stage,
stretch, pull someone’s leg > h o a x .
leather n chamois, hide, skin, suede,
legacy n bequest, endowment,
leave n 1 authorization, consent, dis-
estate, inheritance.
pensation, liberty, licence, permis-
sion, sanction. 2 leave from work. legal adj 1 above-board, acceptable,
absence, free time, furlough, holi- admissible, allowable, allowed, au-
day, recess, sabbatical, time off, vaca- thorized, constitutional, just, lawful,
tion. • vb 1 inf be off, inf check out, legalized, legitimate, licensed, licit,
legalize 234

permitted, permissible, proper, reg- relieve, tone down. 2 abate, become

ular, right, rightful, valid. Opp il l e g a l . less, decline, decrease, die away,
2 legal proceedings, forensic, judicial, diminish, dwindle, ease off, let up,
judiciaiy. moderate, slacken, subside, tail off,
legalize vb allow, authorize, legit- weaken. Opp in c r e a s e .
imate, legitimize, license, make lesson n 1 class, drill, instruction,
legal, normalize, permit, regularize, laboratory, lecture, practical, sem-
validate. Opp b a n . inar, session, task, teaching, tutorial,
legend n epic, folk-tale, myth, saga, workshop. 2 a moral lesson, admoni-
tradition. > s t o r y . tion, example, moral, warning.
legendary adj 1 apocryphal, epic, let vb 1 agree to, allow to, authorize
fabled, fabulous, fictional, fictitious, to, consent to, enable to, give per-
imaginaiy, invented, made-up, myth- mission to, license to, permit to,
ical, non-existent, story-book, tradi- sanction to. 2leta house, charter, con-
tional. 2 a legendary name. > f a mo u s . tract out, hire, lease, rent, let alone,
let be l e a v e , let go, let loose l ib -
legible adj clear, decipherable, dis-
e r a t e . let Off > FIRE, let out > LIBERATE,
tinct, intelligible, neat, plain, read-
let someone off a c q u it , let up
able,-understandable. Opp ILLEGIBLE.
LESSEN.
legitimate adj 1 authentic, genuine,
proper, real, regular, true. i> l e g a l . letdown n anti-climax, disappoint-
2 a legitimate deception, ethical, just, ment, disillusionment, inf wash-out.
justifiable, moral, proper, reason- lethal adj deadly, fatal, mortal, pois-
able, right. Opp ILLEGITIMATE. • vb > onous.
LEGALIZE. lethargic adj apathetic, comatose,
leisure n breathing-space, ease, dull, heavy, inactive, indifferent,
holiday, liberty, opportunity, quiet, indolent, languid, lazy, listless,
recreation, relaxation, relief, repose, phlegmatic, sleepy, slow, slothful,
respite, rest, spare time, time off. sluggish, torpid. i> w e a r y . Opp e n e r -
leisurely adj easy, gentle, lingering, g e t ic .
peaceful, relaxed, relaxing, restful, lethargy n apathy, idleness, inactiv-
unhurried. > s l o w . Opp b r is k . ity, indolence, inertia, laziness, list-
lend vb advance, loan. Opp b o r r o w . lessness, slothfulness, slowness,
sluggishness, torpor, weariness. Opp
length n 1 distance, extent, footage,
ENERGY.
measure, measurement, mileage,
reach, size, span, stretch. 2 duration, letter n 1 character, consonant, sign,
period, stretch, term. symbol, vowel. 2 old use billet-doux,
card, communication, dispatch,
lengthen vb continue, drag out,
epistle, message, missive, note, post-
draw out, elongate, enlarge, expand,
extend, get longer, increase, make card. letters correspondence, junk
mail, mail, post.
longer, inf pad out, prolong, protract,
pull out, stretch. Opp s h o r t e n . level adj 1 even, flat, flush, hori-
lenient adj charitable, easygoing, for- zontal, plane, regular, smooth,
bearing, forgiving, gentle, humane, straight, true, uniform. 2 horizontal.
indulgent, merciful, mild, permiss- 3 level scores, balanced, even, equal,
ive, soft, soft-hearted, sparing, toler- matching, inf neck-and-neck, the
ant. > KIND. Opp STRICT. same. Opp u n e v e n . • n 1 altitude,
depth, elevation, height, value.
less adj fewer, reduced, shorter, 2 degree, echelon, grade, plane, posi-
smaller. Opp m o r e . tion, rank, inf rung on the ladder,
lessen vb 1 assuage, cut, deaden, stage, standard, standing, status.
decrease, ease, lighten, lower, make 3 level in a building, floor, storey. • vb
less, minimize, mitigate, reduce, 1 even out, flatten, rake, smooth.
235 lift
2 bulldoze, demolish, destroy, dev- umit, ransom, release, rescue, save,
astate, knock down, lay low, raze, set free, untie. Opp c a pt u r e , s u b ju g a t e .
tear down, wreck, level-headed > liberty n autonomy, emancipation,
SENSIBLE. independence, liberation, release,
lever vb force, prise, wrench. self-determination, self-rule. > f r e e -
d o m . at liberty > FREE.
liable adj 1 accountable, answerable,
blameworthy, responsible. 2 liable to licence n 1 certificate, credentials,
fall over, apt, disposed, inclined, in document, papers, permit, warrant.
the habit of, likely, minded, predis- 2 > f r e ed o m.
posed, prone, ready, susceptible, license vb 1 allow, approve, au-
tempted, vulnerable, willing. thorize, certify, commission, em-
liaison n 1 communication, contact, power, entitle, give a licence to,
cooperation, Raising, linkage, links, permit, sanction, validate. 2 buy a
mediation, relationship, tie. 2 > licence for, make legal.
AFFAIR. lid n cap, cover, covering, top.
liar n deceiver, false witness, inf fib- lie n deceit, dishonesty, disinforma-
ber, perjurer, inf story-teller. tion, fabrication, falsehood, falsi-
fication, inf fib, fiction, invention,
libel n calumny, defamation, den-
misrepresentation, prevarication,
igration, insult, lie, misrepresenta- untruth, inf whopper. Opp t r u t h . • vb
tion, obloquy, scandal, slander, slur, 1 inf be economical with the truth,
smear, vilification. • vb blacken the bluff, commit peijuiy, deceive, falsify
name of, calumniate, defame, den- the facts, inf fib, perjure yourself, pre-
igrate, disparage, malign, misrep- varicate, tell lies. 2 be horizontal, be
resent, slander, slur, smear, write prone, be prostrate, be recumbent,
lies about, traduce, vilify. be supine, lean back, lounge, recline,
libellous adj calumnious, cruel, repose, rest, sprawl, stretch out.
damaging, defamatory, disparaging, 3 The house lies in a valley, be, be
false, hurtful, insulting, lying, mali- found, be located, be situated, exist,
cious, mendacious, scurrilous, slan- lie low > HIDE.
derous, untrue, vicious. life n 1 being, existence, living.
liberal adj 1 abundant, ample, 2 activity, animation, dash, elan,
bounteous, bountiful, copious, free, energy, enthusiasm, exuberance, inf
generous, lavish, munificent, go, liveliness, soul, sparkle, spirit,
open-handed, plentiful, unstinting. sprightliness, verve, vigour, vitality,
2 liberal attitudes, big-hearted, broad- vivacity, zest. 3 autobiography, bio-
minded, charitable, easygoing, graphy, memoir, story.
enlightened, fair-minded, human- lifeless adj 1 comatose, dead,
itarian, indulgent, impartial, latit- deceased, inanimate, inert, insens-
udinarian, lenient, magnanimous, ate, insensible, killed, motionless,
open-minded, permissive, philan- unconscious. 2 lifeless desert, arid, bare,
thropic, tolerant, unbiased, unbig- barren, desolate, empty, sterile, unin-
oted, unopinionated, unprejudiced, habited, waste. 3 a lifeless performance.
unselfish. Opp n a r r o w -m in d e d . 3 lib- apathetic, boring, dull, flat, heavy,
eral politics, progressive, radical, lacklustre, lethargic, slow, torpid,
reformist. Opp c o n s e r v a t iv e . unexciting, wooden. Opp l iv e l y , l iv in g .
liberalize vb broaden, ease, enlarge, lifelike adj authentic, convincing,
make more liberal, moderate, open faithful, graphic, natural, photo-
up, relax, soften, widen. graphic, realistic, true-to-life, vivid.
liberate vb deliver, discharge, disen- Opp u n r e a l is t ic .
thral, emancipate, enfranchise, free, lift n elevator, hoist. • vb 1 buoy up,
let go, let loose, let out, loose, man- carry, elevate, heave up, hoist, jack
light 236

up, pick up, pull up, raise, rear. predilection, preference. • vb admire,
2 ascend, fly, lift off, rise, soar. approve of, appreciate, be attracted
3 boost, cheer, enhance, improve, to, be fond of, be interested in, be
promote. 4 t> s t e a l . keen on, be partial to, be pleased by,
delight in, enjoy, find pleasant, si go
light adj 1 lightweight, portable,
for, inf go in for, have a high regard
underweight, weightless. Opp h e a v y .
for, in/have a weakness for, prefer,
2 bright, illuminated, lit-up, well-lit.
relish, revel in, take pleasure in, inf
Opp d a r k . 3 light work. t> e a s y . 4 a light
take to, welcome. t> l o v e . Opp h a t e .
wind.> g e n t l e . 5 a light touch. > d e l ic -
a t e . 6 light colours. t> pa l e . 7 a light likeable adj admirable, attractive,
heart. t> c h e e r f u l . 8 light traffic. > charming, congenial, endearing,
s pa r s e . • n 1 beam, blaze, brightness, interesting, lovable, nice, personable,
brilliance, effulgence, flare, flash, flu- pleasant, pleasing. > f r ie n d l y . Opp
orescence, glare, gleam, glint, glitter, HATEFUL.
glow, halo, illumination, incandes- likelihood n chance, hope, possibil-
cence, luminosity, lustre, phospho- ity, probability, prospect.
rescence, radiance, ray, reflection, likely adj 1 anticipated, expected,
scintillation, shine, sparkle, twinkle. feasible, foreseeable, plausible, poss-
□ candlelight, daylight, firelight, gaslight, ible, predictable, probable, reason-
moonlight, starlight, sunlight, torchlight, able, unsurprising. 2 a likely candid-
twilight. □ arc light, beacon, bulb, can- ate. able, acceptable, appropriate,
delabra, candle, chandelier, electric light, convincing, credible, favourite, fit-
flare, floodlight, fluorescent lamp, head- ting, hopeful, promising, qualified,
lamp, headlight, lamp, lantern, laser, suitable, inf tipped to win. 3 likely to
lighthouse, lightship, neon light, pilot come, apt, disposed, inclined, liable,
light, searchlight, spotlight, standard prone, ready, tempted, willing. Opp
lamp, street light, strobe, stroboscope, UNLIKELY.
taper, torch, traffic lights. • vb 1 fire,
ignite, kindle, put a match to, set liken vb compare, equate, juxtapose,
alight, set fire to, switch on. Opp match.
e x t in g u is h . 2 t> l ig h t e n , bring to light likeness n 1 affinity, analogy, com-
t> d is c o v e r , give light, reflect light patibility, congruity, correspondence,
be bright, be luminous, be phospho- resemblance, similarity. Opp d if f e r -
rescent, blaze, blink, bum, coruscate, e n c e . 2 copy, depiction, drawing,
dazzle, flash, flicker, glare, gleam, duplicate, facsimile, image, model,
glimmer, glint, glisten, glitter, glow, picture, portrait, replica, representa-
radiate, reflect, scintillate, shimmer, tion, reproduction, study.
shine, spark, sparkle, twinkle, light- liking n affection, affinity, appetite,
headed t> d iz z y , light-hearted t> eye, fondness, inclination, partiality,
c h e e r f u l , light up > l ig h t e n , shed penchant, predilection, predisposi-
light on > e x pl a in . tion, preference, propensity, inf soft
lighten vb 1 cast light on, floodlight, spot, taste, weakness. t> l o v e . Opp
illuminate, irradiate, light up, shed HATRED.
light on, shine on. 2 The sky lightened. limb n appendage, member, offshoot,
become lighter, brighten, cheer up, projection. □ arm, bough, branch, flip-
clear. 3 > l e s s e n . per, foreleg, forelimb, leg, wing.
lighthouse n beacon, light, light- limber vb limber up exercise, get
ship, warning-light. ready, loosen up, prepare, warm up.
like adj akin to, analogous to, close limbo n in limbo abandoned, forgot-
to, cognate with, comparable to, con- ten, in abeyance, left out, neglected,
gruent with, corresponding to, equal neither one thing nor the other, inf
to, equivalent to, identical to, paral- on hold, inf on the back burner, unat-
lel to, similar to. • n liking, partiality, tached.
237 literal
limit n 1 border, boundary, bounds, lining n inner coat, inner layer, inter-
brink, confines, demarcation line, facing, liner, padding.
edge, end, extent, extreme point, link n 1 bond, connection, con-
frontier, perimeter. 2 ceiling, check, nector, coupling, join, joint, linkage,
curb, cut-off point, deadline, inhibi- tie, yoke. > f a s t e n e r . 2 affiliation,
tion, limitation, maximum, restraint, alliance, association, communica-
restriction, stop, threshold. • vb tion, interdependence, liaison, part-
bridle, check, circumscribe, con- nership, relationship, inf tie-up,
fine, control, curb, define, fix, hold twinning, union. • vb 1 amalgamate,
in check, put a limit on, ration, associate, attach, compare, concat-
restrain, restrict, limited > f in it e , enate, connect, couple, interlink,
INADEQUATE. join, juxtapose, make a link, merge,
limitation n 1 > l imit . 2 defect, defi- network, relate, see a link, twin,
ciency, fault, inadequacy, shortcom- unite, yoke. > f a s t e n .
ing, weakness. ■ip n brim, brink, edge, rim.
limitless adj boundless, countless, liquefy vb become liquid, dissolve,
endless, everlasting, immeasurable, liquidize, melt, run, thaw. Opp s o l id -
incalculable, inexhaustible, infinite, if y .
innumerable, never-ending, num- liquid adj aqueous, flowing, fluid,
berless, perpetual, renewable, un- liquefied, melted, molten, running,
bounded, unconfined, unending, inf runny, sloppy, inf sloshy, thin,
unimaginable, unlimited, unre- watery, wet. Opp s o l id . • n fluid, juice,
stricted. > VAST. Opp FINITE. liquor, solution, stock.
limp adj inf bendy, drooping, flabby, liquidate vb annihilate, destroy, inf
flaccid, flexible, inf floppy, lax, loose, do away with, inf get rid of, remove,
pliable, sagging, slack, soft, weak, silence, wipe out. > k il l .
wilting, yielding. > w e a r y . Opp r ig id .
liquor n 1 alcohol, si booze, si hard
• vb be lame, falter, hobble, hop,
stuff, intoxicants, si shorts, spirits,
stagger, totter.
strong drink. 2 > l iq u id .
line n 1 band, borderline, boundary, list n catalogue, column, directory,
contour, contour line, dash, mark, file, index, inventory, listing, regis-
streak, striation, strip, stripe, stroke, ter, roll, roster, rota, schedule, shop-
trail. 2 corrugation, crease, inf crow’s ping-list, table. • vb 1 catalogue,
feet, fold, furrow, groove, score, enumerate, file, index, itemize, make
wrinkle. 3 cable, cord, flex, hawser, a list of, note, record, register, tabu-
lead, rope, string, thread, wire. late, write down. 2 bank, careen,
4 chain, column, cordon, crocodile,
heel, incline, keel over, lean, slant,
file, procession, queue, rank, row, slope, tilt, tip.
series. 5 railway line, branch, main
line, route, service, track. • vb 1 mark listen vb attend, concentrate, eaves-
with lines, rule, score, streak, stri- drop, old use hark, hear, heed, inf
ate, underline. 2 line the street, border, keep your ears open, lend an ear,
edge, fringe. 3 line a garment, cover overhear, pay attention, take notice.
the inside, insert a lining, pad, rein- listless adj apathetic, enervated,
force. line up > ALIGN, QUEUE. feeble, heavy, languid, lazy, lethar-
gic, lifeless, phlegmatic, sluggish,
linger vb continue, dally, dawdle,
tired, torpid, unenthusiastic, unin-
delay, dither, endure, hang about,
terested, weak. t> w e a r y . Opp l iv e l y .
hover, idle, lag, last, loiter, pause,
persist, procrastinate, remain, inf literal adj close, exact, faithful, mat-
shilly-shally, stay, stay behind, inf ter of fact, plain, prosaic, strict,
stick around, survive, temporize, unimaginative, verbatim, word for
wait about. Opp h u r r y . word.
 238
literary
literary adj 1 cultured, educated, 1 breathe, continue, endure, exist,
erudite, imaginative, learned, re- flourish, function, last, persist,
fined, scholarly, well-read, widely- remain, stay alive, survive. Opp d ie .
read. 2 literary style, ornate, derog 2 be accommodated, dwell, lodge,
pedantic, poetic, polished, rhetor- reside, room, stay. 3 live on £20 a week.
ical, derog self-conscious, sophist- fare, inf get along, keep going, make
icated, stylish. a living, pay the bills, subsist, live in
literate adj 1 educated, wellread. > in h a b it , live on > e a t .
2 accurate, correct, readable, well- liveliness n activity, animation,
written. boisterousness, bustle, dynamism,
literature n books, brochures, cir- energy, enthusiasm, exuberance, inf
culars, creative writing, handbills, go, gusto, high spirits, spirit, spright-
handouts, leaflets, pamphlets, liness, verve, vigour, vitality, vivacity,
papers, writings. □ autobiography, zeal. Opp APATHY.
biography, comedy, crime Jiction, criti- lively adj active, agile, alert, an-
cism, drama, epic, essay, fantasy, fiction, imated, boisterous, bubbly, bustling,
folk-tale, journalism, myth and legend, busy, cheerful, colourful, dashing,
novels, parody, poetry, propaganda, eager, energetic, enthusiastic, excit-
prose, romance, satire, science fiction, ing, expressive, exuberant, frisky,
tragedy. > w r it in g . gay, high-spirited, irrepressible,
lithe adj agile, flexible, limber, lis- jaunty, jazzy, jolly, merry, nimble,
som, loose-jointed, pliable, pliant, inf perky, playful, quick, spirited,
supple. Opp STIFF. sprightly, stimulating, strong, vigor-
litter n bits and pieces, clutter, ous, vital, vivacious, vivid, inf zippy.
debris, fragments, garbage, jumble, > HAPPY. Opp APATHETIC.
junk, mess, odds and ends, refuse, livestock n cattle, farm animals,
rubbish, trash, waste. • vb clutter, living adj active, actual, alive, an-
fill with litter, make untidy, inf mess imate, breathing, existing, extant,
up, scatter, strew. flourishing, functioning, live, old use
little adj 1 inf baby, bantam, com- quick, sentient, surviving, vigorous,
pact, concise, diminutive, inf dinky, vital. > LIVELY. Opp DEAD, EXTINCT. • n
dwarf, exiguous, fine, fractional, income, livelihood, occupation, sub-
infinitesimal, lean, lilliputian, micro- sistence, way of life.
scopic, midget, inf mini, miniature, load n 1 burden, cargo, consignment,
minuscule, minute, narrow, petite freight, lading, lorry-load, shipment,
(woman), inf pint-sized, inf pocket- van-load. 2 load of responsibility, inf
sized, inf poky, portable, pygmy, albatross, anxiety, care, inf cross,
short, slender, slight, small, inf teeny, encumbrance, inf millstone, onus,
thin, tiny, toy, undergrown, under- trouble, weight, worry. • vb 1 bur-
sized, inf wee, inf weeny. Opp b ig . den, encumber, fill, heap, over-
2 little food, inadequate, insufficient, whelm, pack, pile, ply, saddle, stack,
meagre, mean, inf measly, miserly, stow, weigh down. 2 load a gun.
modest, niggardly, parsimonious, inf charge, prime, loaded > b ia s e d ,
piddling, scanty, skimpy, stingy, LADEN, WEALTHY.
ungenerous, unsatisfactory. 3 of little
importance, inconsequential, insigni- loafer n idler, inf good-fornothing,
ficant, minor, negligible, nugatory, layabout, inf lazybones, lounger,
slim (chance), slight, trifling, trivial, shirker, si skiver, vagrant, wastrel.
unimportant. loan n advance, credit, mortgage. • vb
live adj 1 > l iv in g . 2 a live fire. t> advance, allow, credit, lend.
a l ig h t . 3 a live issue, contemporary, loathe vb abhor, abominate, be
current, important, pressing, rel- averse to, be revolted by, despise,
evant, topical, vital. Opp d e a d . • vb detest, dislike, execrate, find intol-
 239 look
erable, hate, object to, recoil from, lodging-house, si pad, quarters,
resent, scorn, shudder at. Opp l o v e . rooms, shelter, si squat, temporary
lobby n 1 ante-room, corridor, home.
entrance hall, entry, foyer, hall, hall- lofty adj 1 elevated, high, imposing,
way, porch, reception, vestibule. majestic, noble, soaring, tall, tower-
2 environmental lobby, campaign, ing. 2 t> ARROGANT.
campaigners, pressure-group, sup- log n 1 timber, wood. 2 account,
porters. • vb persuade, petition, pres- diary, journal, record.
surize, try to influence, urge.
logic n clarity, deduction, intelli-
local adj 1 adjacent, adjoining, gence, logical thinking, ratiocina-
nearby, neighbouring, serving the tion, rationality, reasonableness,
locality. 2 local politics, community, reasoning, sense, validity.
limited, narrow, neighbourhood,
logical adj clear, cogent, coherent,
parochial, particular, provincial,
regional. Opp g e n e r a l , n a t io n a l . • n
consistent, deductive, intelligent,
methodical, rational, reasonable,
1 inhabitant, resident, townsman,
townswoman. 2 t> pu b . sensible, sound, inf step-by-step,
structured, systematic, valid, well-
locality n area, catchment area, reasoned, well-thought-out, wise. Opp
community, district, location, neigh- ILLOGICAL.
bourhood, parish, region, residential
loiter vb be slow, dally, dawdle, hang
area, town, vicinity, zone.
back, linger, inf loaf about, inf mess
localize vb concentrate, confine, about, skulk, inf stand about, straggle,
contain, enclose, keep within
lone adj isolated, separate, single,
bounds, limit, narrow down, pin
solitary, solo, unaccompanied. t>
down, restrict. Opp s pr e a d .
LONELY.
locate vb i come across, detect, dis-
lonely adj 1 abandoned, alone, for-
cover, find, identify, inf lay your lorn, forsaken, friendless, lonesome,
hands on, inf run to earth, search
loveless, neglected, outcast, reclusive,
out, track down, unearth. 2 build,
retiring, solitary, unsociable, with-
establish, find a place for, found,
drawn. > s a d . 2 inf cut off, deserted,
place, position, put, set up, site, desolate, distant, far-away, isolated,
situate, station. inf off the beaten track, out of
location n 1 locale, locality, place, the way, remote, secluded, unfre-
point, position, setting, site, situ- quented, uninhabited.
ation, spot, venue, whereabouts. long adj big, drawn out, elongated,
2 film locations, background, scene, endless, extended, extensive, great,
setting. interminable, large, lasting, lengthy,
lock n bar, bolt, catch, clasp, fasten- longish, prolonged, protracted, slow,
ing, hasp, latch, padlock. • vb bolt, stretched, sustained, time-consum-
close, fasten, padlock, seal, secure, ing, unending. • vb crave, hanker,
shut, lock away t> impr is o n , lock out have a longing (for), hunger, inf itch,
> EXCLUDE, lock up > IMPRISON. pine, thirst, wish, yearn, long for t>
lodge n > h o u s e . • vb 1 accommod- d e s ir e , long-lasting, long-lived t> pe r -
ate, billet, board, house, inf put up. ma n e n t . long-standing > o l d . long-
2 abide, dwell, live, inf put up, reside, suffering i> pa t ie n t , long-winded i>
stay, stop. 3 lodge a complaint, enter, TEDIOUS.
file, make formally, put on record, longing n appetite, craving, desire,
record, register, submit. hankering, hunger, inf itch, need,
lodger n boarder, guest, inmate, pay- thirst, urge, wish, yearning, inf yen.
ing guest, resident, tenant. look n 1 gaze, glance, glimpse, obser-
lodgings n accommodation, apart- vation, peek, peep, sight, inf squint,
ment, billet, boarding-house, inf digs, view. 2 air, appearance, aspect,
look-out 240

attractiveness, bearing, beauty, com- arate, slacken, unfasten, unloose,

plexion, countenance, demeanour, untie. > u n d o . 2 become loose, come
expression, face, looks, manner, adrift, open up. Opp t ig h t e n .
mien. • vb 1 behold, inf cast your eye,
loot n booty, contraband, haul, infill-
consider, contemplate, examine, eye,
gotten gains, plunder, prize, spoils,
gape, inf gawp, gaze, glance, glimpse,
inf swag, takings. • vb despoil, pil-
goggle, have a look, inspect, observe,
lage, plunder, raid, ransack, ravage,
ogle, pay attention (to), peek, peep,
rifle, rob, sack, steal from.
peer, read, regard, scan, scrutinize,
see, skim through, squint, stare, lopsided adj askew, asymmetrical,
study, survey, si take a dekko, take awry, inf cockeyed, crooked, one-
note (of), view, watch. 2 The house sided, tilting, unbalanced, unequal,
looks south, face, overlook. 3 look uneven.
pleased, appear, seem, look after >
TEND, look down on > DESPISE, look lord n aristocrat, noble, peer. □ baron,
for > SEEK, look into > INVESTIGATE, count, duke, earl, old use thane, vis-
look out > BEWARE, look Up to > count. > RULER.
ADMIRE. , lose vb 1 be deprived of, cease to
look-oi<t n guard, sentinel, sentry, have, drop, find yourself without,
watchman. forfeit, forget, leave (somewhere),
loom vb appear, arise, dominate, mislay, misplace, miss, part with,
emerge, hover, impend, materialize, stray from. Opp f in d . 2 admit defeat,
menace, rise, stand out, stick up, be defeated, capitulate, inf come to
take shape, threaten, tower. grief, fail, get beaten, get thrashed,
succumb, suffer defeat. Opp w in .
loop n bend, bow, circle, coil, curl,
3 lose your chance, fritter, let slip,
eye, hoop, kink, noose, ring, turn,
squander, waste. 4 lose pursuers.
twist, whorl. • vb bend, coil, curl,
escape from, evade, get rid of, give
entwine, make a loop, turn, twist,
the slip, leave behind, outrun, shake
wind.
off, throw off. losing > u n s u c c e s s f u l .
loophole n escape, inf get-out, inf let-
out, outlet, way out. loser n the defeated, runner-up, the
loose adj 1 detachable, detached, dis-
vanquished. Opp w in n e r .
connected, independent, insecure, loss n bereavement, damage, defeat,
loosened, movable, moving, scat- deficit, depletion, deprivation,
tered, shaky, unattached, uncon- destruction, diminution, disappear-
nected, unfastened, unsteady, ance, erosion, failure, forfeiture,
wobbly. 2 loose animals, at large, at impairment, privation, reduction,
liberty, escaped, free, free-range, sacrifice. OppGAiN. losses casualties,
released, roaming, uncaged, uncon- deaths, death toll, fatalities.
fined, unfettered, unrestricted,
untied. 3 loose hair, dangling, hang- lost adj 1 abandoned, departed,
ing, spread out, straggling, trailing. destroyed, disappeared, extinct, for-
4 loose clothing, baggy, inf floppy, gotten, gone, irrecoverable, irre-
loose-fitting, slack, unbuttoned. trievable, left behind, mislaid,
5 loose thinking, broad, careless, misplaced, missing, strayed, untrace-
casual, diffuse, general, ill-defined, able, vanished. 2 absorbed, day-
illogical, imprecise, inexact, in- dreaming, dreamy, distracted,
formal, lax, rambling, rough, inf engrossed, preoccupied, rapt. 3 cor-
sloppy, unscientific, unstructured, rupt, damned, fallen. > w ic k e d .
vague. Opp pr e c is e , s e c u r e , t ig h t . 6 > lot n a lot in a sale. > it e m , a lot of, lots
IMMORAL. • vb > FREE, LOOSEN. of > pl e n t y , draw lots > g a mb l e , the
loosen vb 1 ease off, free, let go, lot all (of), everything, the whole
loose, make loose, relax, release, sep- thing, inf the works.
241 lowbrow
lotion n balm, cream, embrocation, intercourse, have sex, kiss, mate, si
liniment, ointment, pomade, salve, neck, inf pet, philander, old use spoon,
unguent. woo. t> SEX.
lottery n 1 raffle, sweepstake. 2 loved adj beloved, cherished, darling,
gamble, speculation, venture. dear, dearest, esteemed, favourite,
loud adj 1 audible, blaring, booming, precious, treasured, valued, wanted,
clamorous, clarion (call), deafening, loveless adj cold, frigid, heartless,
ear-splitting, echoing, fortissimo, passionless, undemonstrative, un-
high, noisy, penetrating, piercing, feeling, unloving, unresponsive. Opp
raucous, resounding, reverberant, LOVING. > UNLOVED.
reverberating, roaring, rowdy,
shrieking, shrill, sonorous, sten- lovely adj appealing, attractive,
torian, strident, thundering, thun- charming, delightful, enjoyable, fine,
derous, vociferous. 2 loud colours. good, nice, pleasant, pretty, sweet. >
> GAUDY. Opp QUIET. BEAUTIFUL. Opp NASTi.
lounge n drawing-room, front room, lover n admirer, boyfriend, com-
living-room, parlour, salon, sitting- panion, concubine, fiance(e), old use
room. • vb be idle, be lazy, dawdle, follower, friend, gigolo, girlfriend,
hang about, idle, inf kill time, laze, inf intended, mate, mistress, old
loaf, lie around, loiter, inf loll about, use paramour, suitor, sweetheart, si
inf mess about, inf mooch about, toy boy, valentine.
relax, inf skive, slouch, slump, lovesick adj frustrated, languishing,
sprawl, stand about, take it easy, lovelorn, pining.
vegetate, waste time.
loving adj admiring, adoring, affec-
lout n boor, churl, rude person, oaf,
inf yob. tionate, amorous, ardent, attached,
brotherly, caring, close, concerned,
lovable adj adorable, appealing, dear, demonstrative, devoted, doting,
attractive, charming, cuddly, inf cute, fatherly, fond, friendly, inseparable,
inf darling, dear, enchanting, endear- kind, maternal, motherly, passion-
ing, engaging, fetching, likeable, ate, paternal, protective, sisterly, ten-
lovely, pleasing, taking, winning, der, warm. > f r ie n d l y , s e x y . Opp
winsome. Opp h a t e f u l . LOVELESS.
love n 1 admiration, adoration,
low adj 1 flat, low-lying, sunken.
adulation, affection, ardour, attach-
2 low trees, little, short, squat,
ment, attraction, desire, devotion,
stumpy, stunted. 3 low status, abject,
fancy, fervour, fondness, infatuation,
base, degraded, humble, inferior,
liking, passion, regard, tenderness,
junior, lesser, lower, lowly, menial,
warmth. > f r ie n d s h ip . 2 beloved, dar-
miserable, modest, servile. 4 low
ling, dear, dearest, loved one. > l o v e r . behaviour, churlish, coarse, common,
• vb 1 admire, adore, be charmed by,
cowardly, crude, old use dastardly,
be fond of, be infatuated by, be in
disreputable, ignoble, mean, nasty,
love with, care for, cherish, desire,
vulgar, wicked. i> im m o r a l . 5 low
dote on, fancy, inf have a crush on, sounds, gentle, indistinct, muffled,
have a passion for, idolize, lose your murmurous, muted, pianissimo,
heart to, lust after, treasure, value, quiet, soft, subdued, whispered. 6 low
want, worship. > l ik e . Opp h a t e , in notes, bass, deep, reverberant. Opp
love besotted, devoted, enamoured,
HIGH, in low spirits > SAD. low point
fond, inf head over heels, infatuated, > NADIR.
love affair affair, amour, courtship,
intrigue, liaison, relationship, ro- lowbrow adj accessible, easy, ordin-
mance. make love be intimate, inf ary, pop, popular, derog rubbishy,
canoodle, caress, copulate, court, simple, straightforward, derog trashy,
cuddle, embrace, flirt, fornicate, have derog uncultured, undemanding,
lower 242

unpretentious, unsophisticated. Opp lull n break, calm, delay, gap, halt,

HIGHBROW. hiatus, interlude, interruption, inter-
lower vb 1 dip, drop, haul down, let val, lapse, inf let-up, pause, respite,
down, take down. 2 lower prices, bring rest, silence. • vb calm, hush, pacify,
down, cut, decrease, discount, lessen, quell, quieten, soothe, subdue, tran-
mark down, reduce, inf slash. 3 lower quillize.
the volume, abate, diminish, quieten, lumber n 1 beams, boards, planks,
tone down, turn down. 4 lower your- timber, wood. 2 bits and pieces, clut-
self. abase, belittle, debase, degrade, ter, jumble, junk, litter, odds and
demean, discredit, disgrace, humble, ends, rubbish, trash, inf white ele-
humiliate, stoop. Opp r a is e . phants. • vb 1 blunder, move clum-
lowly adj base, humble, insignificant, sily, shamble, trudge. 2 > b u r d e n .
little-known, low, low-born, meek, luminous adj bright, glowing, lu-
modest, obscure, unimportant. > minescent, lustrous, phosphor-
ORDINARY. Opp EMINENT. escent, radiant, refulgent, shining.
loyal adj committed, constant, ded- > l ig h t .
icated, dependable, devoted, dutiful, lump n 1 ball, bar, bit, block, cake,
faithful; honest, patriotic, reliable, chunk, clod, clot, cube, inf dollop,
sincere', stable, staunch, steadfast, gob, gobbet, hunk, ingot, mass,
steady; true, trustworthy, trusty, nugget, piece, slab, wad, wedge, inf
unswerving, unwavering. Opp d is - wodge. 2 boil, bulge, bump, car-
l oya l . ■ buncle, cyst, excrescence, growth,
loyalty n allegiance, constancy, ded- hump, knob, node, nodule, protru-
ication, dependability, devotion, sion, protuberance, spot, swelling,
duty, faithfulness, fealty, fidelity, tumescence, tumour. • vb lump
honesty, patriotism, reliability, together > c o m b in e .
staunchness, steadfastness, trust- lunacy n delirium, dementia,
worthiness. Opp DISLOYALTY. derangement, frenzy, hysteria, illogi-
lubricate vb grease, oil. cality, insanity, madness, mania, psy-
luck n 1 accident, chance, coincid- chosis, unreason. > s t u pid it y .
ence, destiny, fate, inf fluke, for- lunatic adj > m a d . • n inf crackpot,
tune, serendipity. 2 wished her luck. inf crank, inf loony, madman, mad-
inf break, good fortune, happiness, woman, maniac, inf mental case, inf
prosperity, success. nutcase, inf nutter, psychopath,
lucky adj 1 accidental, appropriate, psychotic.
chance, inf fluky, fortuitous, op- lunge vb 1 jab, stab, strike, thrust.
portune, providential, timely, un- 2 charge, dash, dive, lurch, plunge,
intentional, unplanned, welcome. pounce, rush, spring, throw yourself.
2 blessed, favoured, fortunate, suc-
lurch vb heave, lean, list, lunge,
cessful. > h a ppy . 3 lucky number.
advantageous, auspicious. Opp u n - pitch, plunge, reel, roll, stagger,
l ucky.
stumble, sway, totter, wallow, leave
in the lurch > a b a n d o n .
luggage n baggage, belongings, inf
gear, impedimenta, paraphernalia, lure vb allure, attract, bait, charm,
inf things, abag, basket, box, brief-case, coax, decoy, draw, entice, induce,
case, chest, hamper, handbag, hand inveigle, invite, lead on, persuade,
luggage, haversack, holdall, knapsack, seduce, tempt.
pannier, old use portmanteau, purse, lurid adj 1 bright, gaudy, glaring,
rucksack, satchel, suitcase, trunk, wallet. glowing, striking, vivid. 2 > s e n s a -
lukewarm adj 1 room temperature, t io n a l .
tepid, warm. 2 apathetic, cool, half- lurk vb crouch, hide, lie in wait, lie
hearted, indifferent, unenthusiastic. low, prowl, skulk, steal.
243 lyrical
luscious adj appetizing, delectable, opulent, pampered, inf plush, inf
delicious, juicy, mouth-watering, posh, rich, inf ritzy, self-indulgent,
rich, succulent, sweet, tasty. splendid, sumptuous, sybaritic,
lust n 1 carnality, concupiscence, voluptuous. Opp SPARTAN.
desire, lasciviousness, lecheiy, libido, luxury n affluence, comfort, ease,
licentiousness, passion, sensuality, enjoyment, extravagance, grandeur,
sexuality. 2 appetite, craving, greed, hedonism, high living, indulgence,
hunger, itch, longing. magnificence, opulence, pleasure,
lustful adj carnal, concupiscent,
relaxation, self-indulgence, splend-
erotic, lascivious, lecherous, lewd, our, sumptuousness, voluptuous-
libidinous, licentious, on heat, pas- ness.
sionate, si randy, salacious, sensual, lying adj crooked, deceitful, de-
si turned on. t> s e x y . ceptive, dishonest, double-dealing,
duplicitous, false, hypocritical, in-
lustrous adj burnished, glazed,
accurate, insincere, mendacious,
gleaming, glossy, metallic, polished,
misleading, perfidious, unreliable,
reflective, sheeny, shiny. untrustworthy, untruthful. Opp
luxuriant adj 1 abundant, ample, t r u t h f u l . • n deceit, deception, dis-
copious, dense, exuberant, fertile, honesty, duplicity, falsehood, inf fib-
flourishing, green, lush, opulent, bing, hypocrisy, mendacity, perfidy,
plenteous, plentiful, profuse, prolific, peijuiy, prevarication.
rank, rich, teeming, thick, thriving, lyrical adj emotional, expressive,
verdant. 2 > o r n a t e . Opp s pa r s e . impassioned, inspired, melodious,
luxurious adj comfortable, costly, musical, poetic, rapturous, rhaps-
expensive, extravagant, grand, he- odic, song-like, sweet, tuneful. Opp
donistic, lavish, lush, magnificent, PROSAIC.
 M
macabre adj eerie, fearsome, fright- madness n delirium, dementia,
ful, ghoulish, grim, grisly, grotesque, derangement, eccentricity, folly,
gruesome, morbid, inf sick, un- frenzy, hysteria, illogicality, insan-
healthy, weird. ity, lunacy, mania, mental illness,
machine n appliance, contraption, psychosis, unreason. > s t u pid it y .
contrivance, device, engine, gadget, magazine n 1 comic, journal,
implement, instrument, mechanism, monthly, newspaper, pamphlet,
motor, robot, tool. > ma c h in e r y . paper, periodical, publication, quar-
machinery n 1 apparatus, equip- terly, weekly. 2 magazine of weapons.
ment, gear, machines, plant. 2 con- ammunition dump, armoury, ar-
stitution, method, organization, senal, storehouse.
procedure, structure, system. magic adj 1 conjuring, miraculous,
mackintosh n anorak, cape, mac, mystic, necromantic, supernatural.
sou’wester, waterproof. > c o a t . 2 bewitching, charming, enchanting,
mad adj 1 inf batty, berserk, inf entrancing, magical, spellbinding.
bonkers, inf certified, inf crackers, • n 1 black magic, charm, enchant-
crazed, crazy, inf daft, delirious, ment, hocus-pocus, incantation,
demented, deranged, disordered, dis- inf mumbo-jumbo, necromancy,
tracted, in/dotty, eccentric, fanatical, occultism, sorcery, spell, voodoo,
frantic, frenzied, hysterical, insane, witchcraft, witchery, wizardry. 2 con-
irrational, inf loony, lunatic, mania- juring, illusion, legerdemain, sleight
cal, manic, inf mental, moonstruck, of hand, trickery, tricks.
Lat non compos mentis, inf nutty,
magician n conjuror, enchanter,
inf off your head, inf off your rocker,
enchantress, illusionist, magus,
inf out of your mind, possessed,
necromancer, sorcerer, old use war-
inf potty, psychotic, inf queer in the
head, inf round the bend, inf lock, witch, witch-doctor, wizard.
round the twist, inf screwy, inf magnetic adj alluring, attractive,
touched, unbalanced, unhinged, bewitching, captivating, charismatic,
unstable, inf up the pole, wild. Opp charming, compelling, engaging,
s a n e . 2 a mad comedy. > a b s u r d . enthralling, entrancing, fascinating,
3 > ANGRY. 4 l> ENTHUSIASTIC. hypnotic, inviting, irresistible, se-
madden vb anger, craze, derange, ductive, spellbinding. Opp r e pu l s iv e .
inf drive crazy, enrage, exasperate, magnetism n allure, appeal, attract-
excite, incense, inflame, infiiriate, iveness, charisma, charm, drawing
irritate, make you mad, inf make power, fascination, irresistibility,
your blood boil, in/make you see red, lure, power, pull, seductiveness.
provoke, inf send you round the magnificent adj awe-inspiring,
bend, unhinge, vex.
beautiful, distinguished, excellent,
madman, fine, glorious, gorgeous, grand,
madwoman ns inf crackpot, inf grandiose, great, imposing, impress-
crank, eccentric, inf loony, lunatic, ive, majestic, marvellous, noble,
maniac, in/mental case, in/nutcase, opulent, inf posh, regal, resplendent,
in/nutter, psychopath, psychotic. rich, spectacular, splendid, stately,
 245
make
sumptuous, superb, wonderful. Opp majestic adj august, awe-inspiring,
ORDINARY. awesome, dignified, distinguished,
magnify vb 1 amplify, augment, inf elevated, exalted, glorious, grand,
blow up, enlarge, expand, increase, grandiose, imperial, imposing, im-
intensify, make larger. Opp s h r in k . pressive, kingly, lofty, lordly, magis-
2 magnify difficulties, inf blow up out terial, magnificent, monumental,
of proportion, dramatize, exagger- noble, pompous, princely, queenly,
ate, heighten, inflate, make too regal, royal, splendid, stately, strik-
much of, maximize, overdo, over- ing, sublime.
estimate, overstate. Opp m in im iz e . majesty n awesomeness, dignity,
magnitude n bigness, enormous- gloiy, grandeur, kingliness, loftiness,
ness, extent, greatness, immensity, magnificence, nobility, pomp, roy-
importance, size. alty, splendour, stateliness, sublim-
mail n correspondence, letters, ity-
parcels, post. • vb dispatch, forward, major adj bigger, chief, considerable,
post, send. extensive, greater, important, key,
maim vb cripple, disable, hamstring,
larger, leading, outstanding, prin-
handicap, incapacitate, lame, mutil- cipal, serious, significant. > m a in .
ate. > WOUND. Opp MINOR.
main adj basic, biggest, cardinal, cent- majority n 1 inf best part, inf better
ral, chief, critical, crucial, dominant, part, bulk, greater number, mass,
dominating, essential, first, fore- preponderance. 2 adulthood, coming
most, fundamental, greatest, largest, of age, manhood, maturity, woman-
leading, major, most important, out- hood. be in the majority > d o min a t e .
standing, paramount, predominant, make n brand, kind, model, sort,
pre-eminent, prevailing, primary, type, variety. • vb 1 assemble, beget,
prime, principal, special, strongest, bring about, build, compose, consti-
supreme, top, vital. Opp m in o r . tute, construct, contrive, craft, cre-
mainly adv above all, as a rule, ate, devise, do, engender, erect,
chiefly, especially, essentially, first execute, fabricate, fashion, forge,
and foremost, generally, in the main, form, frame, generate, invent, make
largely, mostly, normally, on the up, manufacture, mass-produce,
whole, predominantly, primarily, originate, produce, put together,
principally, usually. think up. 2 make dinner, concoct,
cook, inf fix, prepare. 3 make clothes.
maintain vb 1 carry on, continue, knit, in/run up, sew, weave. 4 make
hold to, keep going, keep up, per- an effigy, carve, cast, model, mould,
petuate, persevere in, persist in, sculpt, shape. 5 make a speech, deliver,
preserve, retain, stick to, sustain. pronounce, utter. > s pe a k . 6 made her
2 maintain a car. care for, keep in chairperson, appoint, elect, nominate,
good condition, look after, service, ordain. 7 make P into B. alter, change,
take care of. 3 maintain a family, feed, convert, modify, transform, turn.
keep, pay for, provide for, stand by, 8 make a fortune, earn, gain, get,
support. 4 maintain your innocence. obtain, receive. 9 make a good
affirm, allege, argue, assert, aver, employee, become, change into, grow
claim, contend, declare, defend, into, turn into. 10 make your object-
insist, proclaim, profess, state, ive. accomplish, achieve, arrive at,
uphold. attain, catch, get to, reach, win. 11
maintenance n 1 care, conserva- 2+2 makes 4. add up to, amount to,
tion, looking after, preservation, come to, total. 12 make rules, agree,
repairs, servicing, upkeep. 2 alimony, arrange, codify, decide on, draw up,
allowance, contribution, subsistence, establish, fix, write. 13 make her
support. happy, cause to become, render.
make-believe 246

14 make trouble, bring about, cariy malignant adj dangerous, deadly,

out, cause, give rise to, provoke, destructive, fatal, harmful, injurious,
result in. 15 make them obey, coerce, life-threatening, poisonous, inf ter-
compel, constrain, force, induce, minal, uncontrollable, virulent. >
oblige, order, pressurize, prevail on, MALICIOUS.
require, make amends > c o mpe n s a t e . malleable adj ductile, plastic, pli-
make believe > ima g in e , make fun able, soft, tractable, workable. Opp
of > RIDICULE, make good > PROSPER, BRITTLE.
make love > LOVE, make off >
malnutrition n famine, hunger,
d e pa r t , make off with > s t e a l , make
starvation, undernourishment.
out > u n d e r s t a n d , make up > in v e n t .
make up for > COMPENSATE, make up man n 1 [either sex] > m a n k in d . 2 >
your mind > d e c id e . ma l e . • vb cover, crew, provide staff
for, staff.
make-believe adj fanciful, feigned,
imaginaiy, made-up, mock, inf pre- manage vb 1 administer, be in
tend, pretended, sham, simulated, charge of, be manager of, command,
unreal. • n dream, fantasy, play- conduct, control, direct, dominate,
acting, pretence, self-deception, un- govern, head, lead, look after,
reality., mastermind, operate, organize,
oversee, preside over, regulate, rule,
maker n architect, author, builder,
run, superintend, supervise, take
creator, director, manufacturer,
care of, take control of, take over.
originator, producer.
2 manage your jobs, accomplish,
makeshift adj emergency, impro- achieve, bring about, cariy out, con-
vised, provisional, stopgap, tempor- tend with, cope with, deal with, do,
ary- finish, get through, handle, manipu-
maladjusted adj disturbed, mud- late, muddle through, perform, sort
dled, neurotic, unbalanced. out, succeed in, undertake. 3 Can you
male adj manly, masculine, virile. manage? cope, fend for yourself, inf
• n □ bachelor, inf bloke, boy, boyfriend, make it, scrape by, shift for yourself,
inf bridegroom, brother, chap, inf succeed, survive. 4 can manage £10.
codger, father, fellow, gentleman, groom, afford, spare.
inf guy, husband, lad, lover, man, son, manageable adj 1 acceptable, con-
inf squire, uncle, widower. □ buck, bull, venient, easy to manage, handy,
cock, dog, ram, stallion, tom(cat). Opp neat, reasonable. Opp a w k w a r d .
FEMALE. 2 amenable, compliant, controllable,
malefactor n delinquent, law- disciplined, docile, governable, sub-
breaker, offender, villain, wrongdoer. missive, tame, tractable. > o b e d ie n t .
> CRIMINAL. Opp DISOBEDIENT.
manager,
malice n animosity, inf bitchiness,
bitterness, inf cattiness, enmity, manageress ns administrator, inf
hatred, hostility, ill-will, malevol- boss, chief, controller, director, exec-
ence, maliciousness, malignity, nas- utive, foreman, forewoman, gov-
tiness, rancour, spite, spitefulness, ernor, head, organizer, overseer,
vengefulness, venom, viciousness, proprietor, ruler, superintendent,
vindictiveness. supervisor. > c h ie f .
malicious adj inf bitchy, bitter, mandatory adj compulsory, essen-
inf catty, evil, evil-minded, hateful, tial, necessary, needed, obligatory,
ill-natured, malevolent, malignant, required, requisite.
mischievous, nasty, rancorous, mangle vb butcher, cripple, crush,
revengeful, sly, spiteful, vengeful, cut, damage, deform, disfigure, hack,
venomous, vicious, villainous, vin- injure, lacerate, maim, maul, mutil-
dictive, wicked. Opp k in d . ate, ruin, spoil, squash, tear, wound.
247 margin
mangy adj dirty, filthy, motheaten, etiquette, gentility, politeness, pro-
nasty, scabby, scruffy, shabby, tocol, refinement, social graces.
slovenly, squalid, inf tatty, unkempt,
mannerism n characteristic, habit,
wretched.
idiosyncrasy, peculiarity, quirk, trait.
manhandle vb 1 carry, haul, heave,
manoeuvre n device, dodge, gambit,
hump, lift, manoeuvre, move, pull, intrigue, move, operation, plan, plot,
push. 2 abuse, batter, inf beat up, ill- ploy, ruse, scheme, stratagem, strat-
treat, knock about, maltreat, mis- egy, tactics, trick. • vb contrive, en-
treat, misuse, inf rough up, treat gineer, guide, jockey, manipulate,
roughly. move, navigate, negotiate, pilot,
mania n craving, craze, enthusiasm, steer.
fad, fetish, frenzy, infatuation, obses- manoeuvres plur n army exercise,
sion, passion, preoccupation, rage. > operation, training.
MADNESS.
mansion n castle, chateau, manor,
maniac n lunatic, psychopath, manor-house, palace, stately home,
psychotic. > m a d ma n . villa. > h o u s e .
manifest adj apparent, blatant, mantle n cape, cloak, covering, hood,
clear, conspicuous, discernible, evid- shawl, shroud, wrap. • vb > c o v e r .
ent, explicit, glaring, noticeable,
manufacture vb assemble, build,
obvious, patent, plain, recognizable,
undisguised, visible. • vb > s h o w . construct, create, fabricate, make,
mass-produce, prefabricate, process,
manifesto n declaration, policy put together, inf turn out. manufac-
statement. tured > MAN-MADE.
manipulate vb 1 feel, massage, rub, manufacturer n factory-owner,
stimulate. 2 manipulate people, con- industrialist, maker, producer.
trol, direct, engineer, exploit, guide, manure n compost, dung, fertilizer,
handle, influence, manage, man-
inf muck.
oeuvre, orchestrate, steer.
manuscript n document, papers,
mankind n Lat homo sapiens, script. > b o o k .
human beings, humanity, human-
kind, the human race, man, men and many adj abundant, assorted, copi-
women, mortals, people. ous, countless, diverse, frequent,
innumerable, multifarious, myriad,
manly adj chivalrous, gallant, heroic, numberless, numerous, profuse,
inf macho, male, mannish, mascu- inf umpteen, uncountable, untold,
line, strong, swashbuckling, vigor- varied, various. Opp f e w .
ous, virile. > b r a v e . Opp e f f e min a t e .
map n chart, diagram, plan.
man-made adj artificial, imitation,
manufactured, massproduced, pro- mar vb blight, blot, damage, deface,
cessed, simulated, synthetic, un- disfigure, harm, hurt, impair, rum,
natural. Opp NATURAL. spoil, stain, taint, tarnish, wreck.
manner n 1 approach, fashion, marauder n bandit, buccaneer,
means, method, mode, procedure, invader, pirate, plunderer, raider.
process, style, technique, way. 2 air, march n cortege, demonstration,
aspect, attitude, bearing, behaviour, march-past, parade, procession,
character, conduct, demeanour, progress. • vb file, pace, parade, step,
deportment, disposition, look, mien. stride, troop. > w a l k .
3 all manner of things, genre, kind, margin n 1 border, boundaiy, brink,
sort, type, variety. edge, frieze, perimeter, periphery,
manners plur n behaviour, breeding, rim, side, verge. 2 allowance, latit-
civility, conduct, courtesy, decorum, ude, leeway, room, scope, space.
marginal 248

marginal adj borderline, doubtful, quicksands, saltings, saltmarsh, old

insignificant, minimal, negligible, use slough, swamp, wetland.
peripheral, slight, small, unimport- marshal vb arrange, assemble, col-
ant. lect, deploy, draw up, gather, group,
marital adj conjugal, matrimonial, line up, muster, organize, set out.
nuptial. martial adj aggressive, bellicose,
mark n 1 blemish, blot, blotch, dent, belligerent, militant, military, pugna-
dot, fingermark, plur graffiti, im- cious, soldierly, warlike. Opp pe a c e -
pression, line, marking, pockmark, a bl e.
print, scar, scratch, scribble, smear, marvel n miracle, phenomenon,
smudge, smut, inf splotch, spot, wonder. • vb marvel at admire,
stain, plur stigmata, streak, trace, applaud, be amazed by, be aston-
vestige. 2 mark of breeding, character- ished by, be surprised by, gape at,
istic, feature, indication, indicator, praise, wonder at.
marker, token. 3 identifying mark.
marvellous adj admirable, amazing,
badge, brand, device, emblem, fin-
astonishing, astounding, breathtak-
gerprint, hallmark, label, seal, sign,
ing, excellent, exceptional, extra-
stamp; standard, symbol, trademark.
ordinary, inf fabulous, inf fantastic,
• vb 1- blemish, blot, brand, bruise,
glorious, impressive, incredible,
cut, damage, deface, dent, dirty, dis-
figure, draw on, make a mark on, magnificent, miraculous, out of the
ordinary, inf out of this world,
mar,. scar, scratch, scrawl over,
phenomenal, praiseworthy, prodi-
scribble on, smudge, spot, stain,
gious, remarkable, inf sensational,
stamp, streak, tattoo, write on.
2 mark pupils’ work, appraise, assess,
spectacular, splendid, staggering,
correct, evaluate, grade, tick. 3 mark stunning, stupendous, inf super,
my words, attend to, heed, listen to, superb, surprising, inf terrific, unbe-
mind, note, notice, observe, pay lievable, wonderful, wondrous. Opp
attention to, take note of, take seri- ORDINARY.
ously, in/take to heart, watch. masculine adj boyish, inf butch,
market n auction, bazaar, exchange,
gentlemanly, heroic, inf macho,
fair, marketplace, sale. > s h o p . • vb male, manly, mannish, muscular,
advertise, deal in, make available, powerful, strong, vigorous, virile. Opp
merchandise, peddle, promote, put FEMININE.
on the market, retail, sell, inf tout, mash vb beat, crush, grind, mangle,
trade, trade in, try to sell, vend. pound, pulp, pulverize, smash,
marksman n crack shot, gunman,
squash.
sharpshooter, sniper. mask n camouflage, cloak, cover,
maroon vb abandon, cast away, cover-up, disguise, fatjade, front,
desert, forsake, isolate, leave, put guise, screen, shield, veil, visor. • vb
ashore, strand. blot out, camouflage, cloak, conceal,
cover, disguise, hide, obscure, screen,
marriage n 1 matrimony, partner- shield, shroud, veil.
ship, union, wedlock. 2 nuptials,
union, wedding. □ bigamy, monogamy, masonry n bricks, brickwork, stone,
polygamy. stonework.
marriageable adj adult, mature, mass adj comprehensive, general,
nubile. large-scale, popular, universal,
wholesale, widespread. • n 1 ac-
marry vb espouse, inf get hitched, inf cumulation, agglomeration, ag-
get spliced, join in matrimony, inf gregation, body, bulk, inf chunk,
tie the knot, unite, wed. collection, concretion, conglomera-
marsh n bog, fen, marshland, tion, inf dollop, heap, hoard, inf
morass, mud, mudflats, quagmire, hunk, inf load, lot, lump, mound,
 249 mature
mountain, pile, profusion, quantity, ship, marriage, partnership, rela-
stack, volume. 2 > g r o u p . • vb accu- tionship, union. • vb 1 agree, accord,
mulate, aggregate, amass, assemble, be compatible, be equivalent, be the
collect, congregate, convene, flock same, be similar, blend, coincide,
together, gather, marshal, meet, combine, compare, coordinate, cor-
mobilize, muster, pile up, rally. respond, fit, inf go together, har-
massacre vb annihilate, slaughter. monize, suit, tally, tie in, tone in.
> KILL. Opp c o n t r a s t . 2 ally, combine, fit,
join, link up, marry, mate, pair off,
massage vb knead, manipulate, rub.
pair up, put together, team up. Opp
mast n aerial, flagpole, maypole, s pl it , matching > s imil a r .
pylon, transmitter.
mate n 1 inf better half, companion,
master n 1 inf boss, employer, gov- consort, helpmeet, husband, partner,
ernor, keeper, lord, overseer, owner, spouse, wife. > f r ie n d . 2 assistant,
person in charge, proprietor, ruler, associate, collaborator, colleague,
taskmaster. i> c h ie f . 2 captain, skip- helper. • vb become partners, cop-
per. 3 master of an art. inf ace, author- ulate, couple, have intercourse, inf
ity, expert, genius, maestro, have sex, join, marry, inf pair up,
mastermind, virtuoso. 4 > t e a c h e r . • unite, wed.
vb 1 become expert in, inf get off by
material adj concrete, corporeal,
heart, inf get the hang of, grasp,
palpable, physical, solid, substan-
know, learn, understand. 2 break in, tial, tangible. • n 1 fabric, stuff,
bridle, check, conquer, control, curb,
textile. d > c l o t h . 2 components, con-
defeat, dominate, inf get the better
stituents, content, data, facts, ideas,
of, govern, manage, overcome, over-
information, matter, notes, re-
power, quell, regulate, repress, rule, sources, statistics, stuff, subject
subdue, subjugate, suppress, tame,
matter, substance, supplies, things.
triumph over, vanquish.
materialize vb appear, become vis-
masterly adj accomplished, adroit,
ible, emerge, occur, take shape, inf
consummate, dexterous, excellent,
turn up.
expert, masterful, matchless, prac-
tised, proficient, skilful, skilled, mathematics plur n mathematical
unsurpassable. science, inf maths, number work.
□ addition, algebra, arithmetic, calculus,
mastermind n architect, brains,
division, geometry, multiplication, opera-
conceiver, contriver, creator, en-
tional research, statistics, subtraction,
gineer, expert, genius, intellectual,
trigonometry.
inventor, manager, originator, plan-
ner, prime mover. • vb carry matted adj knotted, tangled,
through, conceive, contrive, devise, uncombed, unkempt. > d is h e v e l l e d .
direct, engineer, execute, manage, matter n 1 body, material, stuff, sub-
organize, originate, plan, plot. > ma n - stance. 2 discharge, pus, suppura-
a g e. tion. 3 a matter of life and death, affair,
masterpiece n best work, Fr chef- business, concern, episode, event,
d’oeuvre, classic, inf hit, Lat magnum fact, incident, issue, occurrence,
opus, masterwork, Fr piece de resist- question, situation, subject, thing,
ance. topic. 4 What’s the matter? difficulty,
match n 1 bout, competition, con-
problem, trouble, upset, worry. • vb
test, duel, game, test match, tie, tour- be important, be of consequence, be
nament, tourney. 2 met my match. significant, count, make a difference,
complement, counterpart, double, mean something, signify, matter-of-
fact > PROSAIC.
equal, equivalent, twin. 3 a good
match, combination, fit, pair, simil- mature adj 1 adult, advanced, ex-
arity. 4 a love match, alliance, ffiend- perienced, full-grown, grown-up,
maturity 250

nubile, of age, perfect, sophisticated, vicious. 3 a mean dwelling, base, com-

well-developed. 2 mellow, ready, mon, humble, inferior, insignificant,
ripe, seasoned. Opp imma t u r e . • vb age, low, lowly, miserable, poor, shabby,
come to fruition, develop, grow up, squalid, wretched. Opp g e n e r o u s , v a l u -
mellow, reach maturity, ripen. a b l e . • vb 1 augur, betoken, com-
maturity n adulthood, completion, municate, connote, convey, denote,
majority, mellowness, perfection, inf drive at, express, foretell, inf get
readiness, ripeness. over, herald, hint at, imply, indicate,
intimate, portend, presage, refer to,
maul vb claw, injure, inf knock about,
represent, say, show, signal, signify,
lacerate, mangle, manhandle, mu-
specify, spell out, stand for, suggest,
tilate, paw, savage, treat roughly,
symbolize. 2 I mean to succeed, aim,
wound. desire, have in mind, hope, intend,
maximize vb 1 add to, augment, plan, propose, purpose, want, wish.
build up, increase, make the most 3 The job means long hours, entail,
of. 2 inflate, magnify, overdo, over- involve, necessitate.
state. > EXAGGERATE. Opp MINIMIZE.
meander vb ramble, rove, snake,
maximum adj biggest, extreme, full, twist and turn, wander, wind, zigzag,
fullest, greatest, highest, largest, meandering > t w is t y .
maximal, most, peak, supreme, top,
toptnost, utmost, uttermost. • n meaning n connotation, content,
apex, ceiling, climax, extreme, high- definition, denotation, drift, expla-
est point, peak, pinnacle, top, upper nation, force, gist, idea, implication,
limit, zenith. Opp m in im u m . import, importance, interpretation,
message, point, purport, purpose,
maybe adv conceivably, perhaps,
relevance, sense, significance, signi-
possibly.
fication, substance, thrust, value.
maze n complex, confusion, convo-
lution, labyrinth, network, tangle, meaningful adj deep, eloquent,
web. expressive, meaning, pointed, posit-
ive, pregnant, relevant, serious, sig-
meadow n field, old use mead, pad- nificant, suggestive, telling, tell-tale,
dock, pasture. weighty, worthwhile. Opp m e a n in g -
meagre adj deficient, inadequate, l ess.
insufficient, lean, mean, paltry, poor,
meaningless adj 1 absurd, coded,
puny, scanty, skimpy, slight, sparse,
incomprehensible, incoherent, in-
thin, unsatisfying. > s ma l l . Opp g e n -
consequential, irrelevant, nonsensi-
er o u s.
cal, pointless, senseless. 2 meaningless
meal n inf blow-out, old use collation, compliments, empty, flattering, hol-
repast, inf spread. □ banquet, barbecue, low, insincere, shallow, silly, syco-
breakfast, buffet, dinner, inf elevenses, phantic, vacuous, worthless. Opp
feast, high tea, lunch, luncheon, picnic, me a n in g f u l .
snack, supper, take-away, tea, tea-break,
old use tiffin. means n 1 ability, capacity, chan-
nel, course, fashion, machinery,
mean adj 1 beggarly, inf cheese-par- manner, medium, method, mode,
ing, close, close-fisted, illiberal, inf process, way. 2 private means. >
mingy, miserly, niggardly, parsimo- w ea l t h.
nious, inf penny-pinching, selfish,
sparing, stingy, inf tight, tight-fisted, measurable adj appreciable, con-
ungenerous. 2 a mean disposition, cal- siderable, perceptible, quantifiable,
lous, churlish, contemptible, cruel, reasonable, significant. Opp n e g l ig ib l e .
despicable, hard-hearted, ignoble, ill- measure n 1 allocation, allowance,
tempered, malicious, nasty, shabby, amount, amplitude, extent, magni-
shameful, small-minded, inf sneaky, tude, portion, quantity, quota, range,
spiteful, uncharitable, unkind, ration, scope, size, unit. > me a s u r e -
 251
medium
me n t . 2 criterion, inf litmus test, intercessor, intermediary, judge,
standard, test, touchstone, yardstick. liaison officer, middleman, mod-
3 measures to curb crime, act, action, erator, negotiator, peacemaker,
bill, control, course of action, expe- referee, umpire.
dient, law, means, procedure, step.
medicinal adj curative, healing,
• vb assess, calculate, calibrate, com-
medical, remedial, restorative, thera-
pute, count, determine, estimate, peutic.
gauge, judge, mark out, meter,
plumb (depth), quantify, rank, rate, medicine n 1 healing, surgery,
reckon, survey, take measurements therapeutics, therapy, treatment.
of, weigh, measure out > d is pe n s e . 2 cure, dose, drug, medicament,
medication, nostrum, panacea, old use
measurement n amount, calcula-
physic, prescription, remedy, treat-
tion, dimensions, extent, figure,
ment. □ anaesthetic, antibiotic, anti-
mensuration, size. t> me a s u r e . □ area,
breadth, bulk, capacity, depth, distance, dote, antiseptic, aspirin, capsule, gargle,
herbal remedy, iodine, inhaler, linctus,
height, length, mass, speed, time, volume,
lotion, lozenge, narcotic, ointment, pain-
weight, width. □ acreage, footage,
killer, pastille, penicillin, pill, sedative,
mileage, tonnage.
suppository, tablet, tonic, tranquillizer.
meat n flesh. > f o o d . □ bacon, beef,
chicken, game, gammon, ham, lamb, mediocre adj amateurish, average,
mutton, pork, poultry, turkey, veal, ven- inf common-or-garden, common-
ison. □ brawn, breast, burger, brisket, place, everyday, fair, indifferent, in-
chine, chops, chuck, cutlet, fillet, flank, ferior, medium, middling, moder-
hamburger, leg, loin, mince, offal, pate, ate, ordinary, passable, pedestrian,
potted meat, rib, rissole, rump, sausage, poorish, inf run-of-the-mill, second-
scrag, shoulder, silverside, sirloin, spare- rate, inf so-so, undistinguished, un-
rib, steak, topside, tripe. exceptional, unexciting, uninspired,
unremarkable, weakish. Opp o u t -
mechanic n engineer, technician, s t a n d in g .
mechanical adj 1 automated, auto-
meditate vb be lost in thought,
matic, machine-driven, techno- brood, cerebrate, chew over, cogitate,
logical. 2 cold, habitual, imper- consider, contemplate, deliberate,
sonal, inhuman, instinctive, lifeless, mull things over, muse, ponder,
matter-of-fact, perfunctory, reflex, pray, reflect, ruminate, think, turn
routine, soulless, unconscious, un- over.
emotional, unfeeling, unimaginat-
ive, uninspired, unthinking. Opp meditation n cerebration, contem-
HUMAN. plation, deliberation, musing, prayer,
reflection, rumination, thought,
mechanize vb automate, bring up
to date, computerize, equip with yoga-
machines, modernize. meditative adj brooding, contem-
medal n award, decoration, honour, plative, pensive, prayerful, rapt,
medallion, prize, reward, trophy. reflective, ruminative, thoughtful.
medallist n champion, victor, win- medium adj average, intermediate,
ner. mean, medial, median, mid, middle,
middling, mid-sized, midway, mod-
meddle vb inf be a busybody, butt erate, normal, ordinary, standard,
in, interfere, inf poke your nose in, usual. • n 1 average, centre, com-
piy, snoop, tamper. promise, mean, middle, midpoint,
mediate vb act as go-between, act norm. 2 agency, approach, chan-
as mediator, arbitrate, intercede, nel, form, means, method, mode,
liaise, negotiate. vehicle, way. 3 clairvoyant, seer,
mediator n arbiter, arbitrator, spiritualist, the media, mass media
broker, conciliator, go-between, t> COMMUNICATION.
 252
meek
meek adj acquiescent, compliant, ful, sombre, sorrowful, unhappy,
deferential, docile, forbearing, woebegone, woeful. > s a d . Opp c h e e r -
gentle, humble, long-suffering, f u l . • n l> SADNESS.
lowly, mild, modest, non-militant, mellow adj 1 mature, rich, ripe,
obedient, patient, peaceable, quiet, ■smooth, sweet. 2 mellow mood, agree-
resigned, retiring, self-effacing, shy, able, amiable, comforting, cordial,
soft, spineless, submissive, tame, genial, gentle, happy, kindly, peace-
timid, tractable, unambitious, un- ful, pleasant, reassuring, soft, sub-
assuming, unprotesting, weak, inf dued, warm. Opp h a r s h . • vb age,
wimpish. Opp a g g r e s s iv e . develop, improve with age, mature,
meet vb 1 inf bump into, chance ripen, soften, sweeten.
upon, collide with, come across, con- melodious adj dulcet, inf easy on
front, contact, encounter, face, hap- the ear, euphonious, harmonious,
pen on, have a meeting with, run lyrical, mellifluous, melodic, sweet,
across, run into, see. 2 be introduced tuneful.
to, make the acquaintance of. melodramatic adj emotional, exag-
3 come and fetch, greet, inf pick up, gerated, inf hammy, histrionic, over-
rendezvous with, welcome. 4 as- done, overdrawn, inf over the top,
semble, collect, come together, con- sensationalized, sentimental, the-
gregate, convene, forgather, gather, atrical.
have a meeting, muster, rally, ren-
dezvous. 5 The ends don’t meet, abut, melody n air, song, strain, subject,
adjoin, come together, connect, con- theme, tune.
verge, cross, intersect, join, link up, melt vb deliquesce, dissolve, liquefy,
merge, touch, unite. 6 meet a request. soften, thaw, unfreeze, melt away >
acquiesce in, agree to, answer, com- DISAPPEAR.
ply with, deal with, fulfil, inf meas- member n associate, colleague, fel-
ure up to, observe, pay, satisfy, settle, low, life-member, paid-up member.
take care of. 7 meet difficulties.
encounter, endure, experience, go memorable adj catchy (tune), dis-
through, suffer, undergo. tinguished, extraordinary, haunting,
historic, impressive, indelible,
meeting n 1 assembly, gathering, ineradicable, never-to-beforgotten,
inf get-together, inf powwow. □ audi- notable, outstanding, remarkable,
ence, board, briefing, cabinet, caucus, striking, unforgettable.
committee, conclave, conference, con-
memorial n cairn, cenotaph, grave-
gregation, congress, convention, council,
stone, headstone, monument,
discussion group, forum, prayer meeting,
rally, seminar, service, synod. 2 appoint- plaque, reminder, statue, tablet,
ment, assignation, date, engage- tomb.
ment, inf get-together, rendezvous, memorize vb commit to memory,
old use tryst. 3 chance meeting, con- inf get off by heart, learn, learn by
frontation, contact, encounter. rote, learn parrot-fashion, remem-
4 meeting of lines, roads, confluence ber, retain.
(of rivers), convergence, crossing, memory n 1 ability to remember,
crossroads, intersection, joining, recall, retention. 2 impression, re-
junction, T-junction, union. collection, reminder, reminiscence,
melancholy adj cheerless, dejected, souvenir. 3 memory of the dead, fame,
depressed, depressing, despondent, honour, name, remembrance, repu-
disconsolate, dismal, dispirited, tation, respect.
dispiriting, inf down, down-hearted, menace n danger, peril, threat,
forlorn, gloomy, glum, joyless, life- warning. • vb alarm, bully, cow,
less, low, lugubrious, melancholic, intimidate, terrify, terrorize,
miserable, moody, morose, mourn- threaten. t> f r ig h t e n .
253 merry
mend vb 1 fix, patch up, put right, gent, kind, kind-hearted, kindly,
rectify, remedy, renew, renovate, lenient, liberal, magnanimous, mild,
repair, restore. □ beat out, dam, patch, pitying, inf soft, soft-hearted, sym-
replace parts, sew up, solder, stitch up, pathetic, tender-hearted, tolerant.
touch up, weld. 2 mend your ways. Opp MERCILESS.
ameliorate, amend, correct, cure, merciless adj barbaric, barbarous,
improve, make better, reform, revise. brutal, callous, cold, cruel, cut-
3 mend after illness, convalesce, get
throat, hard, hard-hearted, harsh,
better, heal, improve, recover, recu- heartless, indifferent, inexorable,
perate. inflexible, inhuman, inhumane,
menial adj base, boring, common, intolerant, malevolent, pitiless,
degrading, demeaning, humble, in- relentless, remorseless, rigorous,
ferior, insignificant, low, lowly, serv- ruthless, savage, severe, stem, stony-
ile, slavish, subservient, unskilled, hearted, strict, tyrannical, unbend-
unworthy. • n inf dogsbody, lackey, ing, unfeeling, unforgiving, unkind,
minion, slave, underling. > s e r v a n t . unmerciful, unrelenting, unremit-
mental adj 1 abstract, cerebral, cog- ting, vicious. Opp MERCIFUL.
nitive, conceptual, intellectual, ra- mercy n beneficence, benignity,
tional, theoretical. 2 mental illness. charity, clemency, compassion, feel-
emotional, psychological, subjective, ing, forbearance, forgiveness,
temperamental. > m a d . generosity, grace, humaneness,
mentality n attitude, bent, charac- humanity, indulgence, kind-hearted-
ter, disposition, frame of mind, in- ness, kindness, leniency, love, pity,
clination, inf make-up, outlook, quarter, sympathy, understanding.
personality, predisposition, propen- merge vb 1 amalgamate, blend, co-
sity, psychology, set, temperament, alesce, combine, come together, con-
way of thinking. federate, consolidate, fuse, integrate,
mention vb acknowledge, allude to, join together, link up, mingle, mix,
animadvert on, bring up, broach, pool, put together, unite. 2 motor-
cite, comment on, disclose, draw ways merge, converge, join, meet. Opp
attention to, enumerate, hint at, inf SEPARATE.
let drop, let out, make known, make merit n credit, distinction, excel-
mention, name, note, observe, pay lence, good, goodness, importance,
tribute to, point out, quote, recog- quality, strength, talent, value,
nize, refer to, remark, report, reveal, virtue, worth, worthiness. • vb be
say, speak about, touch on, write entitled to, be worthy of, deserve,
about. earn, have a right to, incur, justify,
mercenary adj acquisitive, avari- rate, warrant.
cious, covetous, grasping, greedy, inf meritorious adj admirable, com-
money-mad, venal. • n > f ig h t e r . mendable, estimable, exemplary,
merchandise n commodities, honourable, laudable, praiseworthy,
goods, items for sale, produce, prod- worthy.
ucts, Stock. • vb > ADVERTISE. merriment n amusement, cheerful-
merchant n broker, dealer, distrib- ness, conviviality, exuberance, gai-
utor, retailer, salesman, seller, shop- ety, glee, good cheer, high spirits,
keeper, stockist, supplier, trader, hilarity, jocularity, joking, jollity,
tradesman, tradeswoman, vendor, joviality, inf larking about, laughter,
wholesaler. levity, light-heartedness, liveliness,
mirth, vivacity. t> me r r y ma k in g .
merciful adj beneficent, benevolent,
charitable, clement, compassionate, merry adj bright, inf bubbly, care-
forbearing, forgiving, generous, gra- free, cheerful, cheery, inf chirpy, con-
cious, humane, humanitarian, indul- vivial, festive, fun-loving, gay, glad,
merrymaking 254
hilarious, jocular, jolly, jovial, joyful, metaphorical adj allegorical, fig-
joyous, light-hearted, lively, mirth- urative, non-literal, symbolic. Opp
ful, rollicking, spirited, vivacious. t> LITERAL.
HAPPY. Opp SERIOUS. method n 1 approach, fashion, inf
merrymaking n carousing, celebra-
knack, manner, means, methodo-
tion, conviviality, festivity, frolic, fun, logy, mode, Lat modus operandi, plan,
inf fun and games, inf jollification, procedure, process, programme,
inf junketing, merriment, revelry, recipe, scheme, style, technique,
roistering, sociability, old use was- trick, way. 2 arrangement, design,
sailing. > PARTY. discipline, neatness, order, orderli-
ness, organization, pattern, routine,
mesh n grid, lace, lacework, lattice, structure, system.
lattice-work, net, netting, network, methodical adj businesslike, care-
reticulation, screen, sieve, tangle, ful, deliberate, disciplined, logical,
tracery, trellis, web, webbing. meticulous, neat, ordered, orderly,
mess n 1 chaos, clutter, confusion, organized, painstaking, precise,
dirt, disarray, disorder, hotchpotch, rational, regular, routine, structured,
jumble, litter, inf mishmash, systematic, tidy. Opp d is o r g a n iz e d .
muddle, inf shambles, tangle, un- meticulous adj accurate, exact,
tidiness. > c o n f u s io n , d ir t . 2 made a exacting, fastidious, inf finicky,
mess of it. inf botch, failure, inf hash, painstaking, particular, perfection-
inf mix-up. 3 got into a mess, diffi- ist, precise, punctilious, scrupulous,
culty, dilemma, inf fix, inf jam, inf thorough. Opp c a r e l e s s .
pickle, plight, predicament, problem, microbe n bacillus, bacterium, inf
trouble. • vb mess about amuse bug, germ, micro-organism, virus.
yourself, loaf, loiter, lounge about, middle adj central, centre, halfway,
inf monkey about, inf muck about, inner, inside, intermediate, inter-
inf play about, make a mess of vening, mean, medial, median, mid,
BUNGLE, MUDDLE. meSS Up > MUDDLE, middle-of-the-road, midway, neutral.
mess up a job bu n g l e. • n bull’s eye, centre, core, crown (of
message n announcement, bulletin, road), focus, half-way point, heart,
cable, communication, communique, hub, inside, middle position, mid-
dispatch, information, intelligence, point, midst, nucleus.
letter, memo, memorandum, mis- middling adj average, fair, inf fair to
sive, news, note, notice, report, state- middling, indifferent, mediocre,
ment, old use tidings. moderate, modest, inf nothing to
write home about, ordinary, pass-
messenger n bearer, carrier, able, run-of-the-mill, inf so-so, unre-
courier, dispatch-rider, emissary, markable. Opp o u t s t a n d in g .
envoy, errand-boy, errand-girl,
go-between, harbinger, herald, might n capability, capacity, energy,
intermediary, legate, Mercury, force, muscle, potency, power,
messenger-boy, messenger-girl, nun- strength, superiority, vigour.
cio, postman, runner. mighty adj brawny, dominant,
doughty, energetic, enormous, force-
messy adj blowzy, careless, chaotic, ful, great, hefty, muscular, potent,
cluttered, dirty, dishevelled, dis- powerful, robust, inf strapping,
orderly, filthy, grubby, mucky, strong, sturdy, vigorous, weighty. >
muddled, inf shambolic, slapdash, BIG. Opp WEAK.
sloppy, slovenly, unkempt, untidy.
migrate vb emigrate, go, immigrate,
Opp n e a t .
move, relocate, resettle, settle, travel.
metallic adj 1 gleaming, lustrous, mild adj 1 affable, amiable, concili-
shiny. 2 clanking, clinking, ringing. atory, docile, easygoing, equable, for-
255 mingle
bearing, forgiving, gentle, good-tem- mirror, mock, parody, parrot, pre-
pered, harmless, indulgent, inof- tend to be, reproduce, ridicule, sati-
fensive, kind, kindly, lenient, meek, rize, simulate, sound like, inf take
merciful, modest, non-violent, off.
pacific, peaceable, placid, quiet, inf mind n 1 astuteness, brain, brain-
soft, soft-hearted, submissive, sym- power, brains, cleverness, inf grey
pathetic, tractable, unassuming, matter, head, insight, intellect, in-
understanding, yielding. 2 mild telligence, judgement, memory,
weather, balmy, calm, clement, fair, mental power, perception, psyche,
peaceful, pleasant, serene, temper- rationality, reason, reasoning, re-
ate, warm. 3 a mild illness, insigni- membrance, sagacity, sapience,
ficant, minor, modest, slight, trivial, sense, shrewdness, thinking, under-
unimportant. 4 mild flavour, bland, standing, wisdom, wit, wits. 2
delicate, faint, mellow, soothing, attitude, belief, bias, disposition,
subtle. Opp SEVERE, STRONG. humour, inclination, intention, opin-
mildness n affability, amiability, ion, outlook, persuasion, plan, point
clemency, docility, forbearance, of view, position, view, viewpoint,
gentleness, kindness, leniency, way of thinking, wishes. • vb
moderation, placidity, softness, 1 attend to, care for, guard, keep an
sympathy, tenderness. Opp a s pe r it y . eye on, look after, take care of, take
militant adj active, aggressive, charge of, watch. 2 mind the warning.
assertive, attacking, combative, be careful about, beware of, heed,
fierce, hostile, positive, pugnacious. listen to, look out for, mark, note,
Opp pa s s iv e . • n activist, extremist, inf obey, pay attention to, remember,
hawk, partisan. take notice of, watch out for. 3 won’t
mind if he’s late, be annoyed, be both-
militaristic adj bellicose, belliger- ered, be offended, be resentful,
ent, combative, fond of fighting, bother, care, complain, disapprove,
hawkish, hostile, pugnacious, war- grumble, object, take offence, worry,
like. Opp pe a c e a b l e . be in two minds > h e s it a t e , make up
military adj armed, belligerent, com- your mind d e c id e , out of your
batant, enlisted, fighting, martial, mind > ma d .
uniformed, warlike. Opp c iv il . mindful adj alert, attentive, aware,
militate vb militate against cancel conscious, heedful, inf on the look-
out, counter, counteract, countervail, out, vigilant, watchful. > c a r e f u l . Opp
discourage, hinder, oppose, prevent, CARELESS.
resist. mindless adj brainless, fatuous,
milk vb bleed, drain, exploit, extract, idiotic, obtuse, senseless, thick,
tap, wring. thoughtless, unintelligent, unthink-
milky adj chalky, cloudy, misty, ing, witless. > s t u pid . Opp in t e l l i -
opaque, whitish. Opp c l e a r . g ent .

mill n 1 factory, foundry, plant, shop, mine n 1 coalfield, colliery, excava-

works, workshop. 2 crusher, grinder, tion, opencast mine, pit, quarry,
quern, watermill, windmill. • vb shaft, tunnel, working. 2 mine of in-
crush, granulate, grate, grind, formation. fund, repository, source,
pound, powder, pulverize, mill about store, storehouse, supply, treasury,
move aimlessly, seethe, swarm, vein, wealth. • vb dig, excavate,
throng, wander. extract, quarry, remove, scoop out,
unearth.
mimic n caricaturist, imitator,
impersonator, impressionist. • vb mineral n metal, ore, rock.
ape, caricature, copy, do impressions mingle vb amalgamate, associate,
of, echo, imitate, impersonate, lam- blend, circulate, combine, com-
poon, look like, inf make fun of, mingle, fraternize, get together, inf
miniature
hobnob, intermingle, intermix, miracle n marvel, miraculous event,
join, merge, mix, move about, inf mystery, wonder.
rub shoulders, socialize, unite. miraculous adj abnormal, extra-
miniature adj baby, diminutive, ordinary, incredible, inexplicable,
dwarf, pocket, pygmy, reduced, - magic, magical, mysterious, para-
scaled-down, small-scale, tiny, toy. normal, phenomenal, preternatural,
> SMALL. remarkable, supernatural, unac-
countable, unbelievable, unexplain-
minimal adj least, minimum, negli- able. > MARVELLOUS.
gible, nominal, slightest, smallest,
token. mirage n delusion, hallucination,
illusion, vision.
minimize vb 1 cut down, decrease,
mire n bog, fen, marsh, morass, mud,
diminish, lessen, pare, prune, reduce.
2 minimize problems, belittle, decry,
ooze, quagmire, quicksand, slime, old
depreciate, devalue, gloss over, make use slough, swamp. > d ir t .
light of, play down, underestimate, mirror n glass, looking-glass, re-
undervalue. Opp ma x imiz e . flector, speculum. • vb echo, re-
flect, repeat, send back.
minimum adj bottom, least, littlest,
lowest, minimal, minutest, nominal, misadventure n accident, calamity,
inf' rock-bottom, slightest, smallest. catastrophe, disaster, ill fortune, mis-
• ii least, lowest, minimum amount, chance, misfortune, mishap.
minimum quantity, nadir. Opp ma x - misanthropic adj anti-social, cyn-
im u m . ical, mean, nasty, surly, unfriendly,
minister n > c l e r g y ma n , o f f ic ia l . • vb unpleasant, unsociable. Opp ph il a n -
minister to aid, assist, attend to, care t h r o pic .
for, help, look after, nurse, see to, misappropriate vb defalcate,
support, wait on. embezzle, expropriate, peculate. >
minor adj inconsequential, inferior,
STEAL.
insignificant, lesser, little, negligible, misbehave vb be a nuisance, be
petty, secondary, smaller, subor- ' bad, behave badly, be mischievous,
dinate, subsidiary, trivial, unim- inf blot your copybook, inf carry on,
portant. > SMALL. Opp MAJOR. • Tl > commit an offence, default, disobey,
ADOLESCENT, c h il d . do wrong, err, fool about, make mis-
chief, inf mess about, inf muck about,
minstrel n balladeer, bard, enter-
offend, inf play about, play up, inf
tainer, jongleur, musician, singer,
raise Cain, sin, transgress.
troubadour.
misbehaviour n badness, delin-
mint adj brand-new, first-class, fresh, quency, disobedience, disorderliness,
immaculate, new, perfect, unblem- horseplay, indiscipline, insubordina-
ished, unmarked, unused. • n for- tion, mischief, mischief-making, mis-
tune, heap, inf packet, pile, stack, conduct, misdemeanour, naughti-
unlimited supply, vast amount. • vb ness, rowdyism, rudeness, sin,
cast, coin, forge, make, manufacture, vandalism, wrongdoing.
produce, stamp out, strike.
miscalculate vb inf boob, err, inf
minute adj diminutive, dwarf, infin- get it wrong, go wrong, make a
itesimal, insignificant, lilliputian, mistake, miscount, misjudge, mis-
microscopic, inf mini, miniature, read, overestimate, overrate, over-
minuscule, inf pint-sized, pocket, value, inf slip up, underestimate,
pygmy, tiny. > s ma l l . underrate.
minutes plur n log, notes, proceed- miscarriage n miscarriage ofjustice.
ings, record, resume, summary, breakdown, collapse, defeat, error,
transactions. failure, perversion.
257
misjudge
miscarry vb 1 abort, inf lose a baby, awful, bad, deplorable, destitute, dis-
suffer a miscarriage. 2 break down, graceful, distressing, heart-breaking,
inf come to grief, come to nothing, hopeless, impoverished, inadequate,
fail, fall through, founder, go wrong, inhuman, lamentable, pathetic,
misfire. Opp s u c c e e d . pitiable, pitiful, poor, shameful, sor-
miscellaneous adj assorted, differ- did, soul-destroying, squalid, vile,
ent, old use divers, diverse, hetero- uncivilized, uncomfortable, vile,
geneous, manifold, mixed, motley, worthless, wretched. 4 miserable
multifarious, sundry, varied, various, weather, cheerless, damp, depressing,
miscellany n assortment, diversity, dismal, dreary, grey, inclement, sun-
gallimaufry, hotchpotch, jumble, less, unpleasant, wet. Opp h a ppy , pl e a s -
ant .
medley, melange, inf mixed bag, mix-
ture, pot-pourri, inf ragbag, variety, miserly adj avaricious, inf cheese-
mischief n 1 devilment, devilry,
paring, inf close, inf close-fisted, cov-
escapade, impishness, misbehaviour, etous, economical, grasping, greedy,
misconduct, inf monkey business, mean, mercenary, mingy, niggardly,
naughtiness, playfulness, prank, parsimonious, penny-pinching,
rascality, roguishness, scrape, inf penurious, sparing, stingy, inf tight,
inf tight-fisted. Opp g e n e r o u s .
shenanigans, trouble. 2 damage, dif-
ficulty, evil, harm, hurt, injury, mis- misery n 1 angst, anguish, anxiety,
fortune, trouble. bitterness, dejection, depression,
mischievous adj annoying, badly
despair, desperation, despondency,
behaved, boisterous, disobedient, discomfort, distress, dolour, gloom,
grief, heartache, heartbreak, in/hell,
elvish, fractious, frolicsome, full of
mischief, impish, lively, naughty, hopelessness, melancholy, sadness,
sorrow, suffering, unhappiness, woe,
playful, inf puckish, rascally,
wretchedness. Opp h a ppin e s s . 2 ad-
roguish, sportive, uncontrollable,
versity, affliction, deprivation,
inf up to no good. t> w ic k e d . Opp w e l l -
destitution, hardship, indigence,
beh a v ed.
misfortune, need, oppression, pen-
miser n hoarder, miserly person, nig- ury, poverty, privation, squalor,
gard, inf Scrooge, inf skinflint. Opp suffering, inf trials and tribulations,
SPENDTHRIFT. tribulation, trouble, want, wretched-
miserable adj 1 broken-hearted, ness.
crestfallen, inf cut up, dejected, misfire vb abort, fail, fall through, inf
depressed, desolate, despairing, des- flop, founder, go wrong, miscarry.
pondent, disappointed, disconsol- Opp s u c c e e d .
ate, dismayed, dispirited, distressed,
misfortune n accident, adversity,
doleful, inf down, downcast, down-
affliction, bad luck, blow, calamity,
hearted, forlorn, friendless, gloomy, catastrophe, contretemps, curse, dis-
glum, grief-stricken, heartbroken, appointment, disaster, evil, hard
hopeless, in low spirits, infin the dol- luck, hardship, ill-luck, misadven-
drums, inf in the dumps, joyless, ture, mischance, mishap, reverse,
lachrymose, languishing, lonely, low, setback, tragedy, trouble, vicissitude,
melancholy, moping, mournful, sad,
sorrowful, suicidal, tearful, uneasy, misguided adj erroneous, foolish,
unfortunate, unhappy, unlucky, woe- ill-advised, ill-judged, inappropri-
begone, woeful, wretched. 2 churl- ate, incorrect, inexact, misinformed,
ish, cross, disagreeable, discontented, misjudged, misled, mistaken, un-
inf grumpy, ill-natured, mean, founded, unjust, unsound, unwise.
miserly, morose, pessimistic, sour, > WRONG.
sulky, sullen, surly, taciturn, misjudge vb get wrong, guess
unfriendly, unhelpful, unsociable. wrongly, infjump to the wrong con-
3 miserable living conditions, abject, clusion, make a mistake, misin-
mislay 258

terpret, overestimate, overvalue, mist n 1 cloud, drizzle, fog, haze,

underestimate, undervalue. > m is - smog, vapour. 2 condensation, film,
ca l cul a t e. steam.
mislay vb lose, mislocate, misplace, mistake n inf bloomer, blunder, inf
put in the wrong place. boob, inf botch, inf clanger, erratum,
error, false step, fault, Fr faux pas,
mislead vb bluff, confuse, delude, gaffe, inf howler, inaccuracy, indis-
fool, give misleading information to, cretion, lapse, misapprehension, mis-
give a wrong impression to, lead calculation, misconception, mis-
astray, inf lead up the garden path, judgement, misprint, misspelling,
lie to, misdirect, misguide, misin- misunderstanding, omission, over-
form, outwit, inf take for a ride, take sight, slip, slip-up, solecism, wrong
in, inf throw off the scent, trick. > move. • vb confuse, inf get the wrong
d e c e iv e , misleading > d e c e pt iv e , end of the stick, get wrong, miscon-
PUZZLING. strue, misinterpret, misjudge, mis-
miss vb 1 absent yourself from,
read, misunderstand, mix up, inf
avoid, be absent from, be too late take the wrong way.
for, dddge, escape, evade, fail to keep, mistaken adj erroneous, distorted,
forget, forgo, let go, lose, play truant false, faulty, ill-judged, inaccurate,
fforri, inf skip, inf skive off. 2 miss a inappropriate, incorrect, inexact,
target, be wide of, fail to hit, fall short misguided, misinformed, unfounded,
of. 3 miss absent friends, feel nostalgia unjust, unsound. > w r o n g . Opp c o r -
for, grieve for, lament, long for, need, r ect .
pine for, want, yearn for. miss out mistimed adj badly timed, early,
> OMIT. inconvenient, inopportune, late,
misshapen adj awry, bent, con- unseasonable, untimely. Opp o ppo r -
torted, corkscrew, crippled, crooked, t u n e.
crumpled, deformed, disfigured, dis- mistreat vb abuse, batter, damage,
torted, gnarled, grotesque, knotted, harm, hurt, ill-treat, ill-use, injure,
malformed, monstrous, screwed inf knock about, maltreat, man-
up, tangled, twisted, twisty, ugly, handle, misuse, molest, treat roughly.
warped. Opp pe r f e c t . mistress n [mostly old use] 1 chief,
missile n projectile. □ arrow, ballistic head, keeper, owner, person in
missile, bomb, boomerang, brickbat, bul- charge, proprietor. 2 > t e a c h e r . 3 >
let, dart, grenade, guided missile, rocket, LOVER.
shell, shot, torpedo. > w e a po n . mistrust n apprehension, inf chari-
ness, distrust, doubt, misgiving,
missing adj absent, disappeared,
reservation, scepticism, suspicion,
lost, mislaid, inf skiving, straying,
uncertainty, unsureness, wariness.
truant, unaccounted-for. Opp pr e s e n t .
• vb be sceptical about, be suspicious
mission n 1 delegation, deputation, of, be wary of, disbelieve, distrust,
expedition, exploration, journey, sor- doubt, fear, have doubts about, have
tie, task-force, voyage. 2 mission in misgivings about, have reservations
life, aim, assignment, calling, com- about, question, suspect. Opp t r u s t .
mitment, duty, function, goal, job, misty adj bleary, blurred, blurry,
life’s work, metier, objective, occu- clouded, cloudy, dim, faint, foggy,
pation, profession, purpose, quest, fuzzy, hazy, indistinct, murky,
undertaking, vocation. 3 evangelical obscure, opaque, shadowy, smoky,
mission, campaign, crusade, holy war. steamy, unclear, vague. Opp c l e a r .
missionary n campaigner, crusader, misunderstand vb inf get the
evangelist, minister, preacher, pros- wrong end of the stick, get wrong,
elytizer. misapprehend, miscalculate, mis-
259
mockery
conceive, misconstrue, mishear, mis- ambivalent, confused, equivocal,
interpret, misjudge, misread, miss muddled, uncertain.
the point of, mistake, mistranslate.
mixture n 1 alloy, amalgam, amal-
Opp UNDERSTAND.
gamation, association, assortment,
misunderstanding n 1 error, blend, collection, combination, com-
failure of understanding, false posite, compound, concoction, con-
impression, misapprehension, glomeration, emulsion, farrago,
miscalculation, misconception, mis- fusion, gallimaufry, inf hotchpotch,
construction, misinterpretation, mis- intermingling, jumble, medley,
judgement, misreading, mistake, inf melange, merger, mess, mingling,
mix up, wrong idea. 2 argument, inf miscellany, inf mishmash, mix, inf
contretemps, controversy, difference motley collection, pastiche, pot-
of opinion, disagreement, discord, pourri, selection, suspension, syn-
dispute. > QUARREL. thesis, variety. 2 cross-breed,
half-caste, hybrid, mongrel.
misuse n abuse, careless use,
corruption, ill-treatment, ill-use, moan n complaint, grievance,
maltreatment, misapplication, mis- lament, lamentation. • vb 1 com-
appropriation, mishandling, mis- plain, grieve, inf grouse, grumble,
treatment, perversion. • vb 1 dam- lament. 2 ciy, groan, keen, sigh, ulu-
age, harm, mishandle, treat care- late, wail, weep, whimper, whine. >
lessly. 2 misuse an animal, abuse, bat- SOUND.
ter, damage, harm, hurt, ill-treat, mob n inf bunch, crowd, gang, herd,
ill-use, injure, inf knock about, mal- horde, host, multitude, pack, press,
treat, manhandle, mistreat, molest, rabble, riot, inf shower, swarm,
treat roughly. 3 misuse funds, fritter throng. > g r o u p. • vb besiege, crowd
away, misappropriate, squander, use round, hem in, jostle, surround,
wrongly, waste. swarm round, throng round.
mitigate vb abate, allay, alleviate, mobile adj 1 itinerant, motorized,
decrease, ease, extenuate, lessen, movable, portable, transportable,
lighten, make milder, moderate, pal- travelling, unfixed. 2 able to move,
liate, qualify, reduce, relieve, soften, active, agile, independent, moving,
inf take the edge off, temper, tone nimble, inf on the go, inf up and
down. Opp AGGRAVATE. about. 3 mobile features, animated,
changeable, changing, expressive,
mix n amalgam, assortment, blend, flexible, fluid, plastic, shifting. Opp
combination, compound, range, vari- IMMOVABLE.
ety. • vb 1 alloy, amalgamate, blend,
coalesce, combine, commingle, com- mobilize vb activate, assemble, call
pound, confuse, diffuse, emulsify, up, conscript, enlist, enrol, gather,
fuse, homogenize, integrate, inter- get together, levy, marshal, muster,
mingle, join, jumble up, make a mix- organize, rally, stir up, summon.
ture, meld, merge, mingle, mix up, mock adj artificial, counterfeit,
muddle, put together, shuffle, stir ersatz, fake, false, imitation, make-
together, unite. Opp s e pa r a t e . 2 mix believe, man-made, inf pretend,
with people. t> s o c ia l iz e . sham, simulated, substitute. • vb
mixed adj 1 assorted, different,
decry, deride, disparage, flout, gibe
diverse, heterogeneous, miscellan- at, insult, jeer at, lampoon, laugh at,
eous, varied, various. 2 mixed with make fun of, make sport of, parody,
other things, adulterated, alloyed, poke fun at, ridicule, satirize, scoff
diluted, impure. 3 mixed ingredients. at, scorn, inf send up, sneer at, tan-
amalgamated, combined, composite, talize, taunt, tease, travesty. > m imic .
hybrid, integrated, joint, mongrel, mockery n derision, insults, jeering,
united. 4 mixed feelings, ambiguous, laughter, ridicule, scorn. □ burlesque,
mocking 260

caricature, lampoon, parody, sarcasm, ness, restraint, reticence, sobriety,

satire, inf send-up, inf spoof, inf take-off, temperance.
travesty. modern adj advanced, avant-garde,
mocking adj contemptuous, de- contemporary, current, fashionable,
risive, disparaging, disrespectful, forward-looking, fresh, futuristic, in
insulting, irreverent, jeering, rude, vogue, latest, modish, new, new-
sarcastic, satirical, scornful, taunt- fangled, novel, present, present-day,
ing, teasing, uncomplimentary, progressive, recent, stylish, inf
unkind. Opp r e s pe c t f u l . trendy, up-to-date, up-to-the-minute,
mode n 1 approach, configuration, inf with it. Opp o l d .
manner, medium, method, Lat modernize vb bring up-to-date, inf
modus operandi, procedure, set-up, do up, improve, make modern,
system, technique, way. 2 > f a s h io n . rebuild, redesign, redo, refurbish,
model adj 1 imitation, miniature, regenerate, rejuvenate, renovate,
scaled-down, toy. 2 model pupil, exem- revamp, update.
plary, ideal, perfect, unequalled. • n modest adj 1 diffident, humble,
1 archetype, copy, dummy, effigy, inconspicuous, lowly, meek, plain,
facsinfile, image, imitation, likeness, quiet, reserved, restrained, reticent,
miniature, inf mock-up, paradigm, retiring, self-effacing, simple, unas-
protdtype, replica, representation, suming, unobtrusive, unostenta-
scale model, toy. 2 model of excellence. tious, unpretentious. Opp c o n c e it e d .
byword, epitome, example, exem- 2 bashful, chaste, coy, decent,
plar, ideal, nonpareil, paragon, pat- demure, discreet, proper, seemly,
tern, standard, yardstick. 3 artist’s self-conscious, shamefaced, shy,
model, poser, sitter, subject. 4 latest simple. 3 a modest income, limited,
model, brand, design, kind, mark, medium, middling, moderate, nor-
type, version. 5 fashion model, man- mal, ordinary, reasonable, unexcep-
nequin. • vb carve, fashion, form, tional. Opp EXCESSIVE.
make, mould, sculpt, shape, model
modesty n 1 humbleness, humility,
yourself on > imit a t e .
lowliness, meekness, reserve,
moderate adj 1 average, balanced, restraint, reticence, self-effacement,
calm, cautious, commonsensical, simplicity. Opp o s t e n t a t io n . 2 modesty
cool, deliberate, fair, judicious, about undressing, bashfulness, coy-
medium, middle, inf middle-of-the- ness, decency, demureness, discre-
road, middling, modest, normal, tion, propriety, seemliness, self-
ordinary, rational, reasonable, consciousness, shame, shyness.
respectable, sensible, sober, steady,
temperate, unexceptional, usual. Opp modify vb adapt, adjust, alter,
e x t r e m e . 2 moderate winds, gentle,
amend, change, convert, improve,
light, mild. • vb 1 abate, become less reconstruct, redesign, remake,
extreme, decline, decrease, die down, remodel, reorganize, revise, reword,
ease off, subside. 2 blunt, calm, rework, transform, vary. > mo d e r a t e .
check, curb, dull, ease, keep down, modulate vb adjust, balance, change
lessen, make less extreme, mitigate, key, change the tone, lower the tone,
modify, modulate, mollify, reduce, moderate, regulate, soften, tone
regulate, restrain, slacken, subdue, down.
temper, tone down. moist adj affected by moisture,
moderately adv comparatively, clammy, damp, dank, dewy, humid,
fairly, passably, inf pretty, quite, misty, inf muggy, rainy, inf runny,
rather, reasonably, somewhat, to steamy, watery, wettish. > w e t . Opp
some extent. DRY.
moderation n balance, caution, moisten vb damp, dampen, humid-
common sense, fairness, reasonable- ify, make moist, moisturize, soak,
 monumental
spray, wet. Opp d r y . mongrel n cross-breed, cur, half-
moisture n condensation, damp, breed, hybrid, mixed breed.
dampness, dankness, dew, humidity, monitor n 1 detector, guardian, pre-
liquid, precipitation, spray, steam, fect, supervisor, watchdog. 2 TV mon-
vapour, water, wet, wetness. itor. screen, set, television, TV, VDU,
molest vb abuse, accost, annoy, visual display unit. • vb audit, check,
assault, attack, badger, bother, dis- examine, inf keep an eye on, over-
turb, harass, harry, hassle, hector, see, record, supervise, trace, track,
ill-treat, interfere with, irk, irritate, watch.
manhandle, mistreat, inf needle, per- monk n brother, friar, hermit,
secute, pester, plague, set on, tease, monkey n ape, primate, simian.
torment, vex, worry. □ baboon, chimpanzee, gibbon, gorilla,
molten adj fluid, liquefied, liquid, marmoset, orang-utan.
melted, soft. monopolize vb control, inf comer
moment n 1 flash, instant, inf jiffy, the market in, dominate, have a
minute, second, split second, inf tick, monopoly of, inf hog, keep for your-
inf trice, inf twinkling of an eye, inf self, own, shut others out of, take
two shakes. 2 a historic moment, hour, over. Opp s h a r e .
juncture, occasion, opportunity, monotonous adj boring, colourless,
point in time, stage, time. dreary, dull, featureless, flat, level,
momentary adj brief, ephemeral, repetitious, repetitive, soporific,
evanescent, fleeting, fugitive, hasty, tedious, tiresome, tiring, toneless,
passing, quick, short, short-lived, unchanging, uneventful, unexciting,
temporary, transient, transitory. Opp uniform, uninteresting, unvarying,
PERMANENT. wearisome. Opp in t e r e s t in g .
momentous adj consequential, crit- monster n abortion, beast, bogey-
ical, crucial, decisive, epoch-making, man, brute, demon, devil, fiend,
fateful, grave, historic, important, freak, giant, horror, monstrosity,
portentous, serious, significant, monstrous creature, mutant, ogre,
weighty. Opp u n im po r t a n t . troll.
monarch n crowned head, emperor, monstrous adj 1 colossal, elephant-
empress, king, potentate, queen, ine, enormous, gargantuan, giant,
ruler, tsar. gigantic, great, huge, hulking,
monarchy n domain, empire, king- immense, inf jumbo, mammoth,
dom, realm. mighty, prodigious, titanic, tower-
ing, tremendous, vast. > b ig . 2 a mon-
money n affluence, arrears, assets, strous crime, abhorrent, atrocious,
bank-notes, inf bread, capital, cash, awful, beastly, brutal, cruel, devilish,
change, cheque, coin, copper, credit disgusting, dreadful, evil, ghoulish,
card, credit transfer, currency, dam- grisly, gross, gruesome, heinous,
ages, debt, dividend, inf dough, hideous, inf horrendous, horrible,
dowry, earnings, endowment, estate, horrific, horrifying, inhuman, night-
expenditure, finance, fortune, fund, marish, obscene, outrageous, re-
grant, income, interest, investment, pulsive, shocking, terrible, ugly,
legal tender, loan, inf lolly, old use villainous, wicked. > e v il .
lucre, mortgage, inf nest-egg, notes,
outgoings, patrimony, pay, penny, monument n cairn, cenotaph, cross,
pension, pocket-money, proceeds, gravestone, headstone, mausoleum,
profit, inf the ready, remittance, memorial, obelisk, pillar, prehistoric
resources, revenue, riches, salary, remains, relic, reminder, shrine,
savings, silver, sterling, takings, tax, tomb, tombstone.
traveller’s cheque, wage, wealth, inf monumental adj 1 aweinspiring,
the wherewithal, winnings. awesome, classic, enduring, epoch-
mood 262

making, grand, historic, impressive, scruples, standards, uprightness,

large-scale, lasting, major, memor- virtue.
able, unforgettable. > b ig . 2 a monu- moralize vb lecture, philosophize,
mental plaque, commemorative, pontificate, preach, sermonize.
memorial.
morbid adj black (humour), brooding,
mood n 1 attitude, disposition, frame
dejected, depressed, ghoulish,
of mind, humour, inclination, gloomy, grim, grotesque, gruesome,
nature, spirit, state of mind, temper, lugubrious, macabre, melancholy,
vein. 2 atmosphere, feeling, tone. > monstrous, morose, pathological,
a n g r y , h a ppy , s a d , etc. in the mood >
pessimistic, inf sick, sombre,
READY. unhappy, unhealthy, unpleasant,
moody adj abrupt, bad-tempered, unwholesome. Opp c h e e r f u l .
cantankerous, capricious, change-
able, crabby, cross, crotchety, more adj added, additional, extra,
depressed, depressive, disgruntled, further, increased, longer, new,
erratic, fickle, gloomy, grumpy, inf other, renewed, supplementary. Opp
huffy, ill-humoured, inconstant, ir- LESS.
ritable;'melancholy, mercurial, mis- moreover adv also, as well, besides,
erable,' morose, peevish, petulant, further, furthermore, in addition, old
inf short, short-tempered, snappy, use to boot, too.
sulky, sullen, temperamental, testy,
morose adj bad-tempered, churlish,
inf touchy, unpredictable, unreli-
depressed, gloomy, glum, grim,
able, unstable, volatile. > s a d .
humourless, ill-natured, melancholy,
moor n fell, heath, moorland, waste- moody, mournful, pessimistic, sat-
land. • vb anchor, berth, dock, make urnine, sour, sulky, sullen, surly,
fast, secure, tie up. > f a s t e n . taciturn, unhappy, unsociable. >
mope vb be sad, brood, despair, s a d . Opp c h e e r f u l .
grieve, languish, inf moon, pine, sulk. morsel n bite, crumb, fragment, gob-
moral adj 1 blameless, chaste, bet, mouthful, nibble, piece, sample,
decent, ethical, good, highminded, scrap, small amount, soup^on,
honest, honourable, incorruptible, spoonful, taste, titbit. > b it .
innocent, irreproachable, just, law- mortal adj 1 ephemeral, human,
abiding, noble, principled, proper, passing, temporal, transient. Opp
pure, respectable, responsible, right, immo r t a l . 2 mortal sickness, deadly,
righteous, sinless, trustworthy, fatal, lethal, terminal. 3 mortal en-
truthful, upright, upstanding, virtu- emies. deadly, implacable, irrecon-
ous. 2 a moral tale, allegorical, cilable, rerttorseless, sworn, un-
cautionary, didactic, moralistic, relenting. • n creature, human being,
moralizing. Opp immo r a l . • n lesson, man, person, soul, woman.
maxim, meaning, message, point,
precept, principle, teaching, morals mortality n 1 corruptibility, human-
> mo r a l it y , moral tale allegory, cau- ity, impermanence, transience.
tionary tale, fable, parable. 2 infant mortality, death-rate, dying,
fatalities, loss of life.
morale n attitude, cheerfulness, con-
fidence, Fr esprit de corps, inf heart, mortify vb abash, chagrin, chasten,
mood, self-confidence, self-esteem, inf crush, deflate, embarrass,
spirit, state of mind. humble, humiliate, inf put down,
morality n behaviour, conduct, shame.
decency, ethics, ethos, fairness, good- mostly adv chiefly, commonly, gen-
ness, honesty, ideals, integrity, just- erally, largely, mainly, normally, pre-
ice, morals, principles, propriety, dominantly, primarily, principally,
rectitude, righteousness, rightness, typically, usually.
263 mouthful
moth-eaten adj antiquated, de- mould n blight, fungus, growth,
crepit, holey, mangy, ragged, shabby, mildew. • vb cast, fashion, forge,
inf tatty. > o l d . form, model, inf sculpt, shape,
mother n old use dam, inf ma, inf
stamp, work.
mamma, old use mater, inf mum, inf mouldy adj carious, damp, decaying,
mummy, parent. • vb care for, cher- decomposing, fusty, mildewed, moul-
ish, coddle, comfort, cuddle, fuss dering, musty, putrefying, rotten,
over, indulge, look after, love, nour- stale.
ish, nurse, nurture, pamper, protect, mound n bank, dune, elevation,
spoil, take care of. heap, hill, hillock, hummock, hump,
motherly adj caring, kind, maternal, knoll, pile, stack, tumulus.
protective. > l o v in g . mount n > m o u n t a in . • vb 1 ascend,
clamber up, climb, fly up, go up, rise,
motif n decoration, design, device,
rocket upwards, scale, shoot up, soar.
figure, idea, leitmotif, ornament, pat-
Opp d e s c e n d . 2 mount a horse, get
tern, symbol, theme.
astride, get on, jump onto. 3 savings
motion n action, activity, agitation, mount, accumulate, build up, es-
change, commotion, development, calate, expand, get bigger, grow,
evolution, move, movement, pro- increase, intensify, multiply, pile up,
gress, rise and fall, shift, stir, stir- swell. Opp d e c r e a s e . 4 mount a picture.
ring, to and fro, travel, travelling, display, exhibit, frame, install, pre-
trend. • vb > g e s t u r e . pare, put in place, put on, set up.
motionless adj at rest, calm, frozen, mountain n alp, arete, Scot ben,
immobile, inanimate, inert, lifeless, elevation, eminence, height, hill,
paralysed, peaceful, resting, stag- mound, mount, peak, prominence,
nant, static, stationary, still, stock- range, ridge, sierra, summit, tor, vol-
still, unmoving. Opp m o v in g . cano.
motivate vb activate, actuate, mountainous adj alpine, craggy,
arouse, cause, drive, egg on, encour- daunting, formidable, high, hilly,
age, excite, galvanize, goad, incite, precipitous, rocky, rugged, steep,
induce, influence, inspire, instigate, towering. > b ig .
move, occasion, persuade, prompt, mourn vb bemoan, bewail, fret, go
provoke, push, rouse, spur, stimu- into mourning, grieve, keen, lament,
late, stir, urge. mope, pine, regret, wail, weep. Opp
REJOICE.
motive n aim, ambition, cause, drive,
encouragement, end, enticement, mournful adj dismal, distressed, dis-
grounds, impulse, incentive, incite- tressing, doleful, funereal, gloomy,
ment, inducement, inspiration, insti- grief-stricken, grieving, heartbreak-
gation, intention, lure, motivation, ing, heartbroken, lamenting, lu-
object, provocation, purpose, push, gubrious, melancholy, plaintive,
rationale, reason, spur, stimulation, plangent, sad, sorrowful, tearful,
stimulus, thinking. tragic, unhappy, woeful. Opp c h e e r f u l .
mouth n 1 inf chops, si gob, jaws, si
motor n > e n g in e , v e h ic l e . • vb drive,
kisser, lips, maw, muzzle, palate.
go by car. > t r a v e l . 2 mouth of cave, aperture, door, door-
mottled adj blotchy, brindled, way, entrance, exit, gate, gateway,
dappled, flecked, freckled, marbled, inlet, opening, orifice, outlet, vent,
patchy, spattered, speckled, spotted, way in. 3 mouth of a river, delta, estu-
spotty, streaked, streaky, variegated. ary, outflow. • vb articulate, enunci-
motto n adage, aphorism, catch-
ate, form, pronounce. > s a y .
phrase, maxim, precept, proverb, mouthful n bite, gobbet, gulp,
rule, saw, saying, slogan. morsel, sip, spoonful, swallow, taste.
movable 264

movable adj adjustable, changeable, swing, tendency, trend. 3 a political

detachable, floating, mobile, port- movement, campaign, crusade, drive,
able, transferable, transportable, un- faction, group, organization, party.
fixed, variable. Opp immo v a b l e . 4 military movements, exercise, opera-
move n 1 act, action, deed, device, tion.
dodge, gambit, manoeuvre, measure, movie n film, inf flick, motion pic-
movement, ploy, ruse, step, strata- ture.
gem, inf tack, tactic. 2 a career move.
moving adj 1 active, alive, astir,
change, changeover, relocation, shift,
dynamic, flowing, going, in motion,
transfer. 3 your move, chance, go,
mobile, movable, on the move, trav-
opportunity, turn. • vb 1 move about. elling, under way. Opp mo t io n l e s s . 2 a
be agitated, be astir, budge, change moving tale, affecting, emotional,
places, change position, fidget, flap,
emotive, exciting, heart-rending,
roll, shake, shift, stir, swing, toss,
heart-warming, inspirational, inspir-
tremble, turn, twist, twitch, wag, inf
ing, pathetic, poignant, spine-
waggle, wave, inf wiggle. 2 move
tingling, stirring, inf tear-jerking,
along, cruise, fly, jog, journey, make
thrilling, touching.
headway, make progress, march,
pass, proceed, travel, walk. 3 move mow vb clip, cut, scythe, shear, trim,
quickly, bolt, inf bowl along, canter, muck n dirt, droppings, dung, excre-
career, dash, dart, flit, flounce, fly, ment, faeces, filth, grime, inf gunge,
gallop, hasten, hurry, hurtle, hustle, manure, mess, mire, mud, ooze,
injnip’, race, run, rush, shoot, speed, ordure, rubbish, scum, sewage,
stampede, streak, sweep along, slime, sludge.
sweep past, inf tear, inf zip, inf zoom.
4 move slowly, amble, crawl, dawdle, mucky adj dirty, filthy, foul, grimy,
drift, stroll. 5 move gracefully, dance, grubby, messy, muddy, scummy,
flow, glide, skate, skim, slide, slip, slimy, soiled, sordid, squalid. Opp
sweep. 6 move awkwardly, dodder, fal- CLEAN.
ter, flounder, lumber, lurch, pitch, mud n clay, dirt, mire, muck, ooze,
shuffle, stagger, stumble, sway, tot- silt, slime, sludge, slurry, soil.
ter, trip, trundle. 7 move stealthily.
muddle n chaos, clutter, confusion,
crawl, creep, edge, slink, slither.
disorder, inf hotchpotch, jumble,
8 move things, carry, export, import,
mess, inf mishmash, inf mix up, inf
relocate, shift, ship, transfer, trans-
shambles, tangle, untidiness. • vb
plant, transport, transpose. 9 moved
1 bemuse, bewilder, confound, con-
him to act. encourage, impel, influ-
fuse, disorient, disorientate, mislead,
ence, inspire, persuade, prompt,
perplex, puzzle. Opp c l a r if y . 2 dis-
stimulate, urge. 10 move the crowd’s
feelings, affect, arouse, enrage, fire, arrange, disorder, disorganize,
entangle, inf foul up, jumble, make
impassion, rouse, stir, touch.
11 moved to improve the situation, act,
a mess of, inf mess up, mix up,
do something, make a move, take scramble, shuffle, tangle. Opp t id y .
action, move away t> d e pa r t , move muddy adj 1 caked, dirty, filthy,
back > r e t r e a t , move down > messy, mucky, soiled. 2 muddy water.
DESCEND, move in > ENTER, move cloudy, impure, misty, opaque.
round > c ir c u l a t e , r o t a t e , move 3 muddy ground, boggy, marshy,
towards > a ppr o a c h , move up > sloppy, sodden, soft, spongy, water-
ASCEND. logged, wet. Opp c l e a n , f ir m .
movement n 1 action, activity, muffle vb 1 cloak, conceal, cover,
migration, motion, shifting, stirring. enclose, enfold, envelop, shroud,
> g e s t u r e , mo v e . 2 movement towards swathe, wrap up. 2 muffle noise.
green issues, change, development, damp, dampen, deaden, disguise,
drift, evolution, progress, shift, dull, hush, mask, mute, quieten,
265 musical
silence, soften, stifle, still, suppress, murderer n assassin, inf butcher,
tone down. cutthroat, gunman, homicide, killer,
muffled adj damped, deadened, dull, slayer.
fuzzy, indistinct, muted, silenced, murderous adj barbarous, blood-
stifled, suppressed, unclear, woolly. thirsty, bloody, brutal, cruel, dan-
Opp CLEAR. gerous, deadly, fell, ferocious, fierce,
mug n beaker, cup, old use flagon, homicidal, inhuman, pitiless, ruth-
pot, tankard. • vb assault, beat up, less, savage, vicious, violent.
jump on, molest, rob, set on, steal murky adj clouded, cloudy, dark,
from. > a t t a c k , mug up > l e a r n . dim, dismal, dreary, dull, foggy, fu-
mugger n attacker, hooligan, rob- nereal, gloomy, grey, misty,
ber, ruffian, thief, thug. t> c r imin a l . muddy, obscure, overcast, shadowy,
mugging n attack, robbery, street sombre. Opp c l e a r .
crime. t> c r ime . murmur n background noise, buzz,
muggy adj clammy, close, damp, drone, grumble, hum, mutter,
humid, moist, oppressive, steamy, rumble, susurration, undertone,
sticky, stuffy, sultiy, warm. whisper. • vb drone, hum, moan,
mumble, mutter, rumble, speak in an
multiple adj complex, compound, undertone, whisper. > g r u mb l e , t a l k .
double, many, numerous, plural,
quadruple, quintuple, triple. muscular adj athletic, inf beefy,
brawny, broad-shouldered, burly,
multiplicity n abundance, array,
hefty, inf hulking, husky, powerful,
complex, diversity, number, plural-
powerfully built, robust, sinewy, inf
ity, profusion, variety. strapping, strong, sturdy, tough,
multiply vb 1 double, quadruple, well-built, well-developed, wiry. Opp
quintuple, inf times, triple. 2 become WEAK.
numerous, breed, increase, prolifer-
ate, propagate, reproduce, spread. muse vb cogitate, consider, contem-
plate, deliberate, meditate, mull
multitude n crowd, host, large num- over, ponder, reflect, ruminate,
ber, legion, lots, mass, myriad, study, think.
swarm, throng. t> g r o u p.
mushy adj pulpy, spongy, squashy. t>
mumble vb be inarticulate, murmur, SOFT.
mutter, speak indistinctly, swallow
your words. music n harmony, a blues, chamber
music, choral music, classical music,
munch vb bite, chew, champ, chomp,
dance music, disco music, folk, instru-
crunch, eat, gnaw, masticate. mental music, jazz, orchestral music,
mundane adj banal, common, com- plain-song, pop, ragtime, reggae, rock,
monplace, down-to-earth, dull, every- soul, swing. □ anthem, ballad, cadenza,
day, familiar, human, material, calypso, canon, cantata, canticle, carol,
physical, practical, quotidian, rou- chant, concerto, dance, dirge, duet, etude,
tine, temporal, worldly. > o r d in a r y . fanfare, fugue, hymn, improvisation,
Opp e x t r a o r d in a r y , s pir it u a l . intermezzo, lullaby, march, musical, noc-
municipal adj borough, city, civic, turne, nonet, octet, opera, operetta, ora-
community, district, local, public, torio, overture, prelude, quartet, quintet,
town, urban. rhapsody, rondo, scherzo, sea shanty,
septet, sextet, sonata, song, spiritual,
murder n assassination, fratricide,
symphony, toccata, trio.
genocide, homicide, infanticide,
killing, manslaughter, matricide, musical adj euphonious, harmo-
parricide, patricide, regicide, sorori- nious, lyrical, melodious, pleasant,
cide, unlawful killing, uxoricide. • vb sweet-sounding, tuneful, musical
C> KILL. instrument > in s t r u me n t .
 266
musician
musician n composer, music-maker, mutiny n defiance, disobedience,
performer, player, singer. □ accom- insubordination, insurgency, insur-
panist, bass, bugler, cellist, clarinettist, rection, rebellion, revolt, revolution,
conductor, contralto, drummer, fiddler, sedition, subversion, unruliness,
flautist, guitarist, harpist, instrumental- uprising. • vb agitate, be mutinous,
ist, maestro, minstrel, oboist, organist, disobey, rebel, revolt, rise up, strike,
percussionist, pianist, piper, soloist, mutter vb drone, grumble, mumble,
soprano, tenor, timpanist, treble, trom- murmur, speak in an undertone,
bonist, trumpeter, violinist, virtuoso, whisper. > g r u mb l e , t a l k .
vocalist, musicians □ band, choir, mutual adj common, interactive,
chorus, consort, duet, duo, ensemble, joint, reciprocal, reciprocated,
group, nonet, octet, orchestra, quartet, requited, shared.
quintet, septet, sextet, trio.
muzzle n jaws, mouth, nose, snout.
muster vb assemble, call together, • vb censor, gag, restrain, silence,
collect, come together, convene, con- stifle, suppress.
voke, gather, get together, group, mysterious adj arcane, baffling,
marshal, mobilize, rally, round up, bewildering, bizarre, confusing,
summon. cryptic, curious, dark, enigmatic,
musty'adj airless, damp, dank, fusty, incomprehensible, inexplicable,
mildewed, mildewy, mouldy, smelly, inscrutable, insoluble, magical,
stale, stuffy, unventilated. miraculous, mystical, mystifying,
mutant n abortion, anomaly, de-
obscure, perplexing, puzzling, recon-
viant, freak, monster, monstrosity, dite, secret, strange, uncanny, unex-
plained, unfathomable, unknown,
sport, variant.
weird. Opp s t r a ig h t f o r w a r d .
mutation n alteration, deviance, mystery n conundrum, enigma,
evolution, metamorphosis, modi- miracle, problem, puzzle, question,
fication, transfiguration, trans- riddle, secret.
formation, transmutation, variation.
> CHANGE. mystical adj abnormal, arcane,
cabalistic, ineffable, metaphysical,
mute adj dumb, quiet, silent, speech- mysterious, occult, other-worldly,
less, tacit, taciturn, tight-lipped, preternatural, religious, spiritual,
tongue-tied, voiceless. • vb damp, supernatural. Opp m u n d a n e .
dampen, deaden, dull, hush, make mystify vb baffle, inf bamboozle, inf
quieter, mask, muffle, quieten, beat, bewilder, confound, confuse,
silence, soften, stifle, still, suppress, inf flummox, fool, hoax, perplex,
tone down. puzzle, inf stump.
mutilate vb cripple, damage, deface, myth n 1 allegory, fable, legend,
disable, disfigure, dismember, injure, mythology, symbolism. 2 fabrication,
lame, maim, mangle, mar, spoil, van- falsehood, fiction, invention, make-
dalize, wound. believe, pretence, untruth.
mutinous adj contumacious, defi- mythical adj 1 allegorical, fabled,
ant, disobedient, insubordinate, fabulous, legendary, mythic, mytho-
insurgent, insurrectionary, rebel- logical, poetic, symbolic. 2 false,
lious, refractory, revolutionary, sedi- fanciful, fictional, imaginary, in-
tious, subversive, ungovernable, vented, make-believe, non-existent,
unmanageable, unruly. Opp o b e d ie n t . pretended, unreal. Opp r e a l .
 N
nadir n bottom, depths, low point, narrate vb chronicle, describe, detail,
zero. Opp z e n it h . recount, rehearse, relate, repeat,
nag n > h o r s e . • vb annoy, badger, report, retail, tell, unfold.
chivvy, find fault with, goad, inf go narration n commentary, reading,
on at, harass, hector, inf henpeck, recital, recitation, relation, story-
keep complaining, pester, inf plague, telling, telling, voiceover.
scold, worry. narrative n account, chronicle,
nail n pin, spike, stud, tack. • vb > description, history, report, story,
FASTEN. tale, inf yam.
naive adj artless, inf bom yesterday, narrator n author, chronicler, racon-
candid, childlike, credulous, inf teur, reporter, storyteller.
green, guileless, gullible, inexperi-
narrow adj attenuated, close, con-
enced, ingenuous, innocent, open,
fined, constricted, constricting,
simple, simple-minded, stupid, trust-
cramped, enclosed, fine, limited,
ful, trusting, unsophisticated, unsus-
restricted, slender, slim, thin, tight.
pecting, unwary. Opp a r t f u l .
Opp WIDE.
naked adj bare, denuded, disrobed,
narrow-minded adj biased, bigoted,
exposed, in the nude, nude, stark-
naked, stripped, unclothed, uncon- conservative, conventional, hide-
cealed, uncovered, undraped, un- bound, illiberal, inflexible, insular,
dressed. intolerant, narrow, old-fashioned,
parochial, petty, prejudiced, prim,
name n 1 alias, appellation, Chris- prudish, puritanical, reactionary,
tian name, first name, forename, rigid, small-minded, straitlaced, inf
given name, inf handle, identity, Stuffy. Opp BROAD-MINDED.
nickname, nom de plume, pen name,
personal name, pseudonym, sobri- nasty adj [Nasty refers to anything
quet, surname, title. 2 denomina- you do not like. The range of syn-
tion, designation, epithet, term. • vb onyms is almost limitless: we give
1 baptize, call, christen, dub, style. only a selection here.] bad, beastly,
2 name a book, entitle, label. 3 named dangerous, difficult, dirty, disagree-
him man of the match, appoint, choose, able, disgusting, distasteful, foul,
commission, delegate, designate, hateful, horrible, loathsome, si lousy,
elect, nominate, select, single out, objectionable, obnoxious, obscene,
specify, named > s pe c if ic . inf off-putting, repulsive, revolting,
severe, sickening, unkind, unpleas-
nameless adj 1 anonymous, in-
cognito, unheard-of, unidentified, ant. Opp NICE.
unnamed, unsung. 2 nameless horrors. nation n civilization, community,
dreadful, horrible, indescribable, country, domain, land, people, popu-
inexpressible, shocking, unmention- lation, power, race, realm, society,
able, unspeakable, unutterable. state, superpower.
nap n catnap, doze, inf forty winks, national adj 1 ethnic, popular, ra-
rest, inf shut-eye, siesta, sleep, cial. 2 a national emergency, country-
snooze. wide, general, nationwide, state,
nationalism 268

widespread. • n citizen, inhabitant, nauseate vb disgust, offend, repel,

native, resident, subject. revolt, sicken.
nationalism n chauvinism, jingo- nauseous adj disgusting, foul, loath-
ism, loyalty, patriotism, xenophobia. some, nauseating, offensive, repul-
sive, revolting, sickening, stomach-
native adj 1 aboriginal, indigenous, turning.
local, original. 2 native wit. con- nautical adj marine, maritime,
genital, hereditary, inborn, inbred, naval, seafaring, seagoing, yachting.
inherent, inherited, innate, mother
(wit), natural. • n aborigine, life-long navigate vb captain, direct, drive,
resident. guide, handle, manoeuvre, map-read,
pilot, sail, skipper, steer.
natural adj 1 common, everyday,
navy n armada, convoy, fleet, flotilla,
habitual, normal, ordinary, pre-
dictable, regular, routine, standard, near adj 1 abutting, adjacent, adjoin-
typical, usual. 2 natural feelings. ing, bordering, close, connected,
healthy, hereditary, human, inborn, contiguous, immediate, nearby,
inherited, innate, instinctive, intu- neighbouring, next-door. 2 Christmas
itive, ;kind, maternal, native, pater- is near, approaching, coming, forth-
nal, proper, right. 3 a natural smile. coming, imminent, impending,
artless, authentic, candid, genuine, looming, inf round the comer. 3 near
guileless, sincere, spontaneous, un- friends, close, dear, familiar, intimate,
affected, unpretentious, unselfcon- related. Opp d is t a n t .
scious, unstudied. 4 natural resources. nearly adv about, all but, almost,
crude (oil), raw, unadulterated, approaching, approximately, around,
unprocessed, unrefined. 5 a natural as good as, close to, just about, not
leader, born, congenital, untaught. quite, practically, roughly, virtually,
Opp UNNATURAL. neat adj 1 adroit, clean, dainty, deft,
nature n 1 countryside, creation, dexterous, elegant, injnatty, orderly,
ecology, environment, natural his- organized, pretty, inf shipshape,
tory, scenery, wildlife. 2 attributes, smart, inf spick and span, spruce,
character, complexion, constitution, straight, systematic, tidy, trim,
disposition, essence, humour, make- uncluttered, well-kept. 2 accurate,
up, manner, personality, properties, expert, methodical, meticulous, pre-
quality, temperament, traits. 3 cat- cise, skilful. 3 neat alcohol, pure, inf
egory, description, kind, sort, spe- straight, unadulterated, undiluted.
cies, type, variety. Opp CLUMSY, UNTIDY.
necessary adj compulsory, des-
naughty adj 1 bad, badly-behaved,
bad-mannered, boisterous, contrary, tined, essential, fated, imperative,
defiant, delinquent, disobedient, dis- important, indispensable, ineluct-
orderly, disruptive, fractious, head- able, inescapable, inevitable, inexor-
strong, impish, impolite, incorri- able, mandatory, needed, needful,
gible, insubordinate, intractable, obligatory, predestined, required,
misbehaved, mischievous, obstin- requisite, unavoidable, vital. Opp
ate, obstreperous, perverse, play- UNNECESSARY.
ful, puckish, rascally, rebellious, necessity n 1 compulsion, essen-
refractory, roguish, rude, self-willed, tial, inevitability, inf must, need,
stubborn, troublesome, uncontrol- obligation, prerequisite, require-
lable, undisciplined, ungovernable, ment, requisite, Lat sine qua non.
unmanageable, unruly, wayward, 2 beggary, destitution, hardship,
wicked, wild, wilful. 2 [inj] cheeky, indigence, need, penury, poverty, pri-
improper, ribald, risque, shocking, vation, shortage, suffering, want.
inf smutty, vulgar. > o b s c e n e . Opp need n call, demand, lack, require-
POLITE, WELL BEHAVED. ment, want. > n e c e s s it y . • vb be short
269 neuter
of, call for, crave, demand, depend neighbourhood n area, com-
on, lack, miss, rely on, require, want, munity, district, environs, locality,
needless adj excessive, gratuitous, place, purlieus, quarter, region, sur-
pointless, redundant, superfluous, roundings, vicinity, zone.
unnecessary. neighbouring adj adjacent, adjoin-
needy adj badly off, destitute, inf ing, attached, bordering, close, clos-
hard up, impecunious, impoverished, est, connecting, contiguous, near,
indigent, necessitous, penurious, nearby, nearest, next-door, sur-
poverty-stricken, underpaid. > po o r . rounding.
negate vb annul, cancel out, deny, neighbourly adj civil, considerate,
gainsay, invalidate, nullify, oppose. friendly, helpful, kind, sociable,
negative adj adversarial, antagon- thoughtful, well-disposed.
istic, inf anti, contradictoiy, de- nerve n coolness, determination,
structive, disagreeing, dissenting, firmness, fortitude, resolution,
grudging, nullifying, obstructive, resolve, will-power. > c o u r a g e .
opposing, pessimistic, uncooperative,
unenthusiastic, unresponsive, un- nervous adj afraid, agitated,
willing. • n denial, no, refusal, rejec- anxious, apprehensive, disturbed,
tion, veto. Opp po s it iv e . edgy, excitable, fearful, fidgety, flus-
tered, fretful, highly-strung, ill-at-
neglect n carelessness, dereliction
ease, inf in a tizzy, insecure, inf
of duty, disregard, inadvertence, inat-
jittery, infjumpy, inf nervy, neurotic,
tention, indifference, negligence,
on edge, inf on tenterhooks, inf
oversight, slackness. • vb abandon,
rattled, restive, restless, ruffled,
be remiss about, disregard, forget,
shaky, shy, strained, tense, timid, inf
ignore, leave alone, let slide, lose
touchy, inf twitchy, uneasy, un-
sight of, miss, omit, overlook, pay no
nerved, unsettled, inf uptight,
attention to, shirk, skip, neglected
worried. t> f r ig h t e n e d . Opp c a l m .
> DERELICT.
negligent adj careless, forgetful, nestle vb cuddle, curl up, huddle,
heedless, inattentive, inconsiderate, nuzzle, snuggle.
indifferent, irresponsible, lax, off- net n lace, lattice-work, mesh, net-
hand, reckless, remiss, slack, sloppy, ting, network, web. • vb 1 cap-
slovenly, thoughtless, uncaring, ture, catch, enmesh, ensnare,
unthinking. Opp c a r e f u l . trammel, trap. 2 net £200 a week, accu-
negligible adj imperceptible, incon- mulate, bring in, clear, earn, get,
sequential, inconsiderable, insigni- make, realize, receive, inf take home.
ficant, minor, nugatory, paltry, petty, network n 1 inf criss-cross, grid,
slight, small, tiny, trifling, trivial, labyrinth, lattice, maze, mesh, net,
unimportant. Opp c o n s id e r a b l e . netting, tangle, tracery, web. 2 com-
negotiate vb arbitrate, bargain, plex, organization, system.
come to terms, confer, deal, discuss
neurosis n abnormality, anxiety,
terms, haggle, intercede, make
depression, mental condition, obses-
arrangements, mediate, parley,
sion, phobia.
transact.
negotiation n arbitration, bargain- neurotic adj anxious, distraught,
ing, conciliation, debate, diplomacy, disturbed, irrational, maladjusted,
discussion, mediation, parleying, nervous, obsessive, overwrought,
transaction. unbalanced, unstable.
negotiator n agent, ambassador, neuter adj ambiguous, ambivalent,
arbitrator, broker, conciliator, diplo- asexual, indeterminate, uncertain.
mat, go-between, intercessor, inter- • vb castrate, inf doctor, emasculate,
mediary, mediator, middleman. geld, spay, sterilize.
neutral 270

neutral adj 1 detached, disinterested, ished, refined, well-mannered. 3 [inf:

dispassionate, fair, impartial, indif- In this sense, nice refers to anything
ferent, non-aligned, non-belligerent, which you like. The range of syn-
non-partisan, objective, unaffiliated, onyms is almost limitless: we give
unaligned, unbiased, uncommitted, only a selection here.] acceptable,
uninvolved, unprejudiced. Opp b ia s e d . agreeable, amiable, attractive, beau-
2 neutral colours, characterless, colour- tiful, delicious, delightful, friendly,
less, drab, dull, indefinite, inde- good, gratifying, kind, likeable, pleas-
terminate, intermediate, neither ant, satisfactory, welcome. Opp n a s t y .
one thing nor the other, pale, vague. niche n alcove, comer, hollow, nook,
Opp DISTINCTIVE. recess.
neutralize vb annul, cancel out, nickname n alias, sobriquet,
compensate for, counteract, coun- niggardly adj mean, miserly, parsi-
terbalance, invalidate, make inef- monious, stingy.
fective, make up for, negate, nul-
lify, offset, wipe out. nimble adj acrobatic, active, adroit,
agile, brisk, deft, dextrous, limber,
new adj 1 brand-new, clean, differ- lithe, lively, inf nippy, quick-moving,
ent, fresh, mint, strange, unfamiliar, sprightly, spiy, swift. Opp c l u ms y .
unheard of, untried, unused. 2 new
ideas, advanced, contemporary, cur- nip vb bite, clip, pinch, snag, snap at,
rent, different, fashionable, latest, squeeze.
modern, modernistic, newfangled, nobility n 1 dignity, gloiy, grand-
novel, original, recent, revolutionary, eur, greatness, high-mindedness,
inf trendy, up-to-date. 3 new data. integrity, magnanimity, morality,
added, additional, changed, extra, nobleness, uprightness, virtue, wor-
further, just arrived, supplementary, thiness. 2 the nobility, aristocracy,
unexpected, unknown. Opp o l d . elite, gentry, nobles, peerage, the rul-
newcomer n alien, arrival, immig- ing classes, inf the upper crust.
rant, new boy, new girl, outsider, set- noble adj 1 aristocratic, inf blue-
tler, stranger. blooded, courtly, distinguished, elite,
news n account, advice, announce-
gentle, high-born, high-ranking,
ment, bulletin, communication, patrician, princely, royal, thorough-
communique, dispatch, headlines, bred, titled, upper-class. 2 noble deeds,
information, intelligence, inf the brave, chivalrous, courageous, gal-
latest, message, newscast, news- lant, glorious, heroic. 3 noble thoughts,
flash, newsletter, notice, press- elevated, high-flown, honourable,
release, proclamation, report, ru- lofty, magnanimous, moral, upright,
mour, statement, old use tidings, virtuous, worthy. 4 noble music.
word. dignified, elegant, grand, great,
imposing, impressive, magnificent,
newspaper n inf daily, gazette, majestic, splendid, stately. Opp b a s e ,
journal, paper, periodical, inf rag, c o m m o n . • n aristocrat, gentleman,
tabloid. gentlewoman, grandee, lady, lord,
next adj 1 adjacent, adjoining, clos- nobleman, noblewoman, patrician,
est, nearest, neighbouring, next- peer, peeress.
door. 2 the next moment, following, nod vb bend, bob, bow. nod off >
soonest, subsequent, succeeding. SLEEP.
nice adj 1 accurate, careful, delicate, noise n inf babel, bawling, bedlam,
discriminating, exact, fine, hair-split- blare, cacophony, inf caterwauling,
ting, meticulous, precise, punc- clamour, clangour, clatter, commo-
tilious, scrupulous, subtle. 2 nice tion, din, discord, inf fracas, hubbub,
manners, dainty, elegant, fastidious, inf hullabaloo, outcry, pandemon-
fussy, particular, inf pernickety, pol- ium, inf racket, row, inf rumpus,
271 note
screaming, screeching, shouting, stupid, unreasonable. > s il l y . Opp
shrieking, tumult, uproar, yelling. i> SENSIBLE.
SOUND. Opp SILENCE. non-stop adj ceaseless, constant,
noiseless adj inaudible, mute, continual, continuous, endless,
muted, quiet, silent, soft, soundless, eternal, incessant, interminable,
still. Opp NOISY. perpetual, persistent, inf round-
noisy adj blaring, boisterous, boom- the-clock, steady, unbroken, unend-
ing, cacophonous, chattering, clam- ing, uninterrupted, unremitting.
orous, deafening, discordant, dis- norm n criterion, measure, model,
sonant, ear-splitting, fortissimo, pattern, rule, standard, type, yard-
harsh, loud, raucous, resounding, stick.
reverberating, rowdy, screaming, normal adj 1 accepted, accustomed,
screeching, shrieking, shrill, strident, average, common, commonplace,
talkative, thunderous, tumultuous, conventional, customaiy, estab-
unmusical, uproarious, vociferous. lished, everyday, familiar, general,
Opp NOISELESS. habitual, natural, ordinary, ortho-
nomadic adj itinerant, peripatetic, dox, predictable, prosaic, quotidian,
roving, travelling, vagrant, wander- regular, routine, inf run-of-the-mill,
ing, wayfaring. standard, typical, universal, unsur-
nominal adj 1 formal, in name only, prising, usual. 2 a normal person.
ostensible, self-styled, inf so-called, balanced, healthy, rational, reason-
supposed, theoretical, titular. 2 a able, sane, stable, in/straight, well-
nominal sum. insignificant, minimal, adjusted. Opp ABNORMAL.
minor, small, token. normalize vb legalize, regularize,
nominate vb appoint, choose, desig- regulate, return to normal.
nate, elect, name, propose, put for- nose n 1 nostrils, proboscis, snout.
ward, inf put up, recommend, select, 2 nose of a boat, bow, front, prow. • vb
specify. enter cautiously, insinuate yourself,
non-existent adj chimerical, fic-
intrude, nudge your way, penetrate,
tional, fictitious, hypothetical, ima- probe, push, shove, nose about >
ginaiy, imagined, legendary, made- PRY.
up, mythical, unreal. Opp r e a l . nostalgia n longing, memory, pin-
ing, regret, reminiscence, sentiment,
nonplus vb amaze, baffle, confound,
sentimentality, yearning.
disconcert, dumbfound, flummox,
perplex, puzzle, render speechless. nostalgic adj emotional, maudlin,
regretful, romantic, sentimental,
nonsense n 1 [Most synonyms inf
wistful, yearning.
balderdash, bilge, boloney, bosh,
bunk, bunkum, claptrap, codswal- nosy adj curious, eavesdropping,
lop, double-Dutch, drivel, eyewash, inquisitive, interfering, meddlesome,
fiddlesticks, foolishness, gibberish, prying.
gobbledegook, mumbo jumbo, notable adj celebrated, conspicuous,
piffle, poppycock, rot, rubbish, silli- distinctive, distinguished, eminent,
ness, stuff and nonsense, stupidity, evident, extraordinary, famous,
tommy-rot, trash, tripe, twaddle. illustrious, important, impressive,
2 The plan was a nonsense, absurdity, memorable, noted, noteworthy,
inanity, mistake, nonsensical idea. noticeable, obvious, outstanding,
nonsensical adj absurd, asinine, pre-eminent, prominent, rare,
crazy, inf daft, fatuous, foolish, idi- remarkable, renowned, singular,
otic, illogical, impractical, inane, striking, uncommon, unforgettable,
incomprehensible, irrational, laugh- unusual, well-known. Opp o r d in a r y .
able, ludicrous, mad, meaningless, note n 1 billet-doux, chit, commun-
preposterous, ridiculous, senseless, ication, correspondence, epistle, jot-
noteworthy 272

ting, letter, inf memo, memorandum, notorious adj disgraceful, disrep-

message, postcard. 2 annotation, utable, flagrant, ill-famed, infamous,
comment, cross-reference, explana- outrageous, overt, patent, scan-
tion, footnote, gloss, jotting, mar- dalous, shocking, talked about,
ginal note. 3 a note in your voice. undisguised, undisputed, well-
feeling, quality, sound, tone. 4 a £5 known. > f a mo u s , w ic k e d .
note, banknote, bill, currency, draft. nourish vb feed, maintain, nurse,
• vb 1 enter, jot down, record, nurture, provide for, strengthen,
scribble, write down. 2 note mentally. support, sustain, nourishing > n u t r i -
detect, discern, discover, feel, find, t io u s .
heed, mark, mind, notice, observe,
nourishment n diet, food, goodness,
pay attention to, remark, register,
nutrient, nutriment, nutrition, sus-
see, spy, take note of. noted >
tenance, old use victuals.
FAMOUS.
novel adj different, fresh, imaginat-
noteworthy adj exceptional, extra-
ive, innovative, new, odd, original,
ordinary, rare, remarkable, uncom- rare, singular, startling, strange, sur-
mon, unique, unusual. Opp o r d in a r y . prising, uncommon, unconventional,
nothing n cricket duck, tennis love, old unfamiliar, untested, unusual. Opp
use naught,football nil, nought, zero, f a mil ia r . • n best-seller, inf block-
si zilch. buster, fiction, novelette, novella,
notice n 1 advertisement, announce- romance, stoiy. c> w r it in g .
ment, handbill, handout, intimation, novelty n 1 freshness, newness, odd-
leaflet, message, note, notification, ity, originality, strangeness, surprise,
placard, poster, sign, warning. unfamiliarity, uniqueness. 2 bauble,
2 attention, awareness, cognizance, curiosity, gimmick, knick-knack,
consciousness, heed, note, regard. ornament, souvenir, trifle, trinket.
• vb be aware, detect, discern, dis- novice n amateur, apprentice, begin-
cover, feel, find, heed, make out, ner, inf greenhorn, inexperienced
mark, mind, note, observe, pay person, initiate, learner, probationer,
attention to, perceive, register, re- tiro, trainee.
mark, see, spy, take note, give
now adv at once, at present, here and
notice > n o t if y , w a r n .
now, immediately, instantly, just
noticeable adj appreciable, audible, now, nowadays, promptly, inf right
clear, clear-cut, considerable, con- now, straight away, today.
spicuous, detectable, discernible, noxious adj corrosive, foul, harm-
distinct, distinguishable, mani- ful, nasty, noisome, objectionable,
fest, marked, measurable, notable, poisonous, polluting, sulphureous,
observable, obtrusive, obvious, overt, sulphurous, unwholesome.
palpable, perceivable, perceptible,
plain, prominent, pronounced, nub n centre, core, crux, essence, gist,
salient, significant, striking, uncon- heart, kernel, nucleus, pith, point.
cealed, unmistakable, visible. Opp nucleus n centre, core, heart, kernel,
IMPERCEPTIBLE. middle.
notify vb acquaint, advise, alert, nude adj bare, disrobed, exposed,
announce, apprise, give notice, in the nude, naked, stark-naked,
inform, make known, proclaim, pub- stripped, unclothed, uncovered,
lish, report, tell, warn. undressed.
notion n apprehension, belief, con- nudge vb bump, dig, elbow, hit, jab,
cept, conception, fancy, hypothesis, jog, jolt, poke, prod, push, shove,
idea, impression, inf inkling, opin- touch.
ion, sentiment, theory, thought, nuisance n annoyance, bother, bur-
understanding, view. den, inconvenience, irritant, irrita-
273 nutritious
tion, inf pain, pest, plague, trouble, plentiful, several, uncountable, un-
vexation, worry. told. Opp FEW.
nullify vb abolish, annul, cancel, do nun n abbess, mother-superior,
away with, invalidate, negate, neut- novice, prioress, sister.
ralize, quash, repeal, rescind, re- nurse n 1 district-nurse, old use
voke, stultify. matron, sister. 2 nanny, nursemaid.
• vb 1 care for, look after, minister
numb adj anaesthetized, inf asleep,
to, nurture, tend, treat. 2 breast-feed,
benumbed, cold, dead, deadened,
feed, suckle, wet-nurse. 3 cherish,
frozen, immobile, insensible, in-
coddle, cradle, cuddle, dandle, hold,
sensitive, paralysed, senseless, suf-
hug, mother, pamper.
fering from pins and needles. Opp
s e n s it iv e . • vb anaesthetize, benumb, nursery n 1 creche, kindergarten,
deaden, desensitize, drug, dull, fieeze, nursery school. 2 garden centre,
immobilize, make numb, paralyse, market garden.
stun, stupefy. nurture vb bring up, cultivate, edu-
cate, feed, look after, nourish, nurse,
number n 1 digit, figure, integer,
rear, tend, train.
numeral, unit. 2 aggregate, amount,
inf bunch, collection, crowd, multi- nut n kernel. □ almond, brazil, cashew,
tude, quantity, sum, total. > g r o u p. chestnut, cob-nut, coconut, filbert, hazel,
3 musical number, item, piece, song. peanut, pecan, pistachio, walnut.
4 a number of a magazine, copy, edi- nutrient n fertilizer, goodness, nour-
tion, impression, issue, printing, ishment.
publication. • vb add up to, total, nutriment n food, goodness, nour-
work out at. > c o u n t . ishment, nutrition, sustenance.
numerous adj abundant, copious, nutritious adj alimentary, benefi-
countless, endless, incalculable, in- cial, good for you, health-giving,
finite, innumerable, many, multi- healthy, nourishing, sustaining,
tudinous, myriad, numberless, wholesome.
oasis n 1 spring, watering-hole, well.
o
disapproval, exception, opposition,
2 asylum, haven, refuge, resort, outcry, protest, query, question,
retreat, safe harbour, sanctuary. quibble, refusal, remonstration.
oath n 1 assurance, avowal, guaran- objectionable adj abhorrent, de-
tee, pledge, promise, undertaking, testable, disagreeable, disgusting,
vow, word of honour. 2 blasphemy, dislikeable, displeasing, distasteful,
curse, exclamation, expletive, inf foul, hateful, insufferable, intoler-
four-letter word, imprecation, mal- able, loathsome, nasty, nauseating,
ediction, obscenity, profanity, noisome, obnoxious, odious, offens-
swearword. ive, inf off-putting, repellent, repug-
obedient adj acquiescent, amenable, nant, repulsive, revolting, sickening,
biddable, compliant, conformable, unacceptable, undesirable, un-
deferential, disciplined, docile, wanted. > UNPLEASANT. Opp ACCEPTABLE,
duteous, dutiful, law-abiding, man- objective adj 1 detached, disinter-
ageable, submissive, subservient, ested, dispassionate, factual, impar-
tamed, tractable, well-behaved, well- tial, impersonal, neutral, open-
trained. Opp DISOBEDIENT. minded, outward-looking, rational,
obese adj corpulent, gross, over- scientific, unbiased, uncoloured, un-
weight. > FAT. emotional, unprejudiced. 2 objective
evidence, empirical, existing, observ-
obey vb abide by, accept, acquiesce
able, real. Opp s u b j e c t iv e . • n aim,
in, act in accordance with, adhere
ambition, aspiration, design, des-
to, agree to, be obedient to, be ruled
tination, end, goal, hope, intent,
by, bow to, carry out, comply with,
intention, object, point, purpose,
conform to, defer to, do what you
target.
are told, execute, follow, fulfil, give
in to, heed, honour, implement, keep obligation n commitment, compul-
to, mind, observe, perform, inf stick sion, constraint, contract, duty,
to, submit to, take orders from. Opp liability, need, requirement, re-
DISOBEY. sponsibility. > PROMISE. Opp OPTION.
object n 1 article, body, entity, item, obligatory adj binding, compulsory,
thing. 2 aim, end, goal, intent, in- essential, mandatory, necessary,
tention, objective, point, purpose, required, requisite, unavoidable. Opp
reason. 3 object of ridicule, butt, OPTIONAL.
destination, target. • vb argue, be oblige vb 1 coerce, compel, con-
opposed, carp, cavil, complain, strain, force, make, require. 2 Please
demur, disapprove, dispute, dissent, oblige me. accommodate, gratify,
expostulate, si grouse, grumble, indulge, please, obliged > b o u n d ,
make an objection, inf mind, inf g r a t e f u l , obliging > h e l pf u l , po l it e .
moan, oppose, protest, quibble, raise oblique adj 1 angled, askew, aslant,
objections, raise questions, remon- canted, declining, diagonal, inclined,
strate, take a stand, take exception. leaning, listing, raked, rising,
Opp ACCEPT, AGREE. skewed, slanted, slanting, slantwise,
objection n argument, cavil, chal- sloping, tilted. 2 ah oblique insult.
lenge, complaint, demur, demurral, backhanded, circuitous, circumlocu-
 275 observer
tory, devious, implicit, implied, in- mystifying, perplexing, puzzling,
direct, roundabout. > e v a s iv e . Opp recherche, recondite, strange. Opp
DIRECT. o b v io u s . 3 an obscure poet, forgotten,
obliterate vb blot out, cancel, cover minor, undistinguished, unfamiliar,
over, delete, destroy, efface, elim- unheard of, unimportant, unknown,
inate, eradicate, erase, expunge, ex- unnoticed. Opp f a mo u s . • vb block out,
tirpate, leave no trace of, rub out, blur, cloak, cloud, conceal, cover,
wipe out. darken, disguise, eclipse, envelop,
oblivion n 1 anonymity, darkness,
hide, make obscure, mask, obfuscate,
disregard, extinction, limbo, neglect, overshadow, screen, shade, shroud,
obscurity. 2 amnesia, coma, forget- veil. Opp c l a r if y .
fulness, ignorance, insensibility, obsequious adj abject, in/bootlick-
obliviousness, unawareness, uncon- ing, crawling, cringing, deferential,
sciousness. effusive, fawning, flattering, ful-
oblivious adj forgetful, heedless, some, inf greasy, grovelling, ingrati-
ignorant, insensible, insensitive, ating, insincere, mealy-mouthed,
unacquainted, unaware, uncon- menial, inf oily, servile, inf smarmy,
scious, unfeeling, uninformed, un- submissive, subservient, syco-
mindful, unresponsive. Opp a w a r e . phantic, unctuous, be obsequious
> GROVEL.
obscene adj abominable, bawdy, inf
blue, coarse, corrupting, crude, observant adj alert, astute, attent-
debauched, degenerate, depraved, ive, aware, careful, eagle-eyed, heed-
dirty, disgusting, distasteful, filthy, ful, mindful, on the lookout, inf on
foul, foul-mouthed, gross, immodest, the qui vive, perceptive, percipient,
immoral, improper, impure, inde- quick, sharp-eyed, shrewd, vigilant,
cent, indecorous, indelicate, inf watchful, with eyes peeled. Opp in a t -
kinky, lecherous, lewd, loathsome, t e n t iv e .
nasty, inf off-colour, offensive, out-
observation n 1 attention (to),
rageous, perverted, pornographic,
examination, inspection, monitor-
prurient, repulsive, ribald, risque,
ing, scrutiny, study, surveillance,
rude, salacious, scatological, scur-
viewing, watching. 2 comment, note,
rilous, shameful, shameless, shock-
opinion, reaction, reflection, remark,
ing, inf sick, smutty, suggestive,
response, sentiment, statement,
unchaste, vile, vulgar. > o b j e c t io n -
thought, utterance.
a b l e , SEXY. Opp DECENT.
obscenity n abomination, blas- observe vb 1 consider, contemplate,
phemy, coarseness, dirtiness, evil, detect, discern, examine, inf keep an
filth, foulness, grossness, immoral- eye on, look at, monitor, note,
ity, impropriety, indecency, lewd- notice, perceive, regard, scrutinize,
ness, licentiousness, offensiveness, see, spot, spy, stare at, study, view,
outrage; perversion, pornography, watch, witness. 2 observe rules, abide
profanity, scurrility, vileness. > by, adhere to, comply with, conform
SWEARWORD. to, follow, heed, honour, keep, obey,
pay attention to, respect. 3 observe
obscure adj 1 blurred, clouded, con-
Easter, celebrate, commemorate,
cealed, covered, dark, dim, faint, keep, mark, recognize, remember,
foggy, hazy, hidden, inconspicuous, solemnize. 4 observed that it was badly
indefinite, indistinct, masked, misty, acted, animadvert (on), comment,
murky, nebulous, secret, shadowy, declare, explain, make an observa-
shady, shrouded, unclear, unlit, tion, mention, reflect, remark, say,
unrecognizable, vague, veiled. Opp state.
c l e a r . 2 an obscure joke, arcane, baf-
fling, complex, cryptic, delphic, enig- observer n beholder, bystander,
matic, esoteric, incomprehensible, commentator, eyewitness, looker-on,
obsess 276

onlooker, spectator, viewer, watcher, hinder, hold up, impede, inhibit,

witness. interfere with, interrupt, occlude,
obsess vb become an obsession prevent, restrict, retard, slow down,
with, bedevil, consume, control, stand in the way of, inf stonewall,
dominate, grip, haunt, monopolize, stop, inf stymie, thwart. Opp h e l p .
plague, possess, preoccupy, rule, take obtain vb 1 acquire, attain, be given,
hold of. bring, buy, capture, come by, come
obsession n addiction, inf bee in into possession of, earn, elicit, enlist
your bonnet, conviction, fetish, fixa- (help), extort, extract, find, gain, get,
tion, inf hang-up, inf hobby-horse, Fr get hold of, inf lay your hands on, inf
idee fixe, infatuation, mania, pas- pick up, procure, purchase, receive,
sion, phobia, preoccupation, si thing, secure, seize, take possession of, win.
obsessive adj addictive, compuls- 2 rules still obtain, apply, be in force,
ive, consuming, controlling, domin- be in use, be relevant, be valid, exist,
ating, haunting, passionate. prevail, stand.
obsolescent adj ageing, aging, obtrusive adj blatant, conspicuous,
declining, dying out, fading, going forward, importunate, inescapable,
out of use, losing popularity, mori- interfering, intrusive, meddling,
bund, inf on the way out, waning. meddlesome, noticeable, out of
obsolete adj anachronistic, anti- place, prominent, unwanted, unwel-
quated, antique, archaic, dated, dead, come. > OBVIOUS. Opp INCONSPICUOUS.
discarded, disused, extinct, old-fash- obtuse adj dense, dull, imperceptive,
ioned, inf old hat, out-dated, out-of- slow, slow-witted. > s t u pid . Opp
date, outmoded, passe, primitive, CLEVER.
superannuated, superseded, unfash-
ionable. > OLD. Opp CURRENT. obviate vb avert, forestall, make
unnecessaiy, preclude, prevent,
obstacle n bar, barricade, barrier, remove, take away.
block, blockage, catch, check, diffi-
culty, hindrance, hurdle, impedi- obvious adj apparent, bald, blatant,
ment, obstruction, problem, restric- clear, clear-cut, conspicuous, distinct,
tion, snag, inf stumbling-block. evident, eye-catching, flagrant, glar-
obstinate adj adamant, si bloody- ing, gross, inescapable, intrusive,
minded, defiant, determined, manifest, notable, noticeable, ob-
dogged, firm, headstrong, immov- trusive, open, overt, palpable,
able, inflexible, intractable, in- patent, perceptible, plain, promin-
transigent, inf mulish, obdurate, ent, pronounced, recognizable, self-
persistent, pertinacious, perverse, inf evident, self-explanatory, straight-
pig-headed, refractory, resolute, forward, unconcealed, undisguised,
rigid, self-willed, single-minded, inf undisputed, unmistakable, visible.
stiff-necked, stubborn, tenacious, Opp HIDDEN, OBSCURE.
uncooperative, unreasonable, occasion n 1 chance, circumstance,
unyielding, wilful, wrong-headed. moment, occurrence, opportunity,
Opp AMENABLE. time. 2 no occasion for rudeness, call,
obstreperous adj awkward, bois- cause, excuse, grounds, justification,
terous, disorderly, irrepressible, need, reason. 3 a happy occasion.
naughty, rough, rowdy, inf stroppy, affair, celebration, ceremony, event,
turbulent, uncontrollable, undiscip- function, inf get-together, happen-
lined, unmanageable, unruly, vocif- ing, incident, occurrence, party.
erous, wild. > NOISY. Opp WELL-BEHAVED, occasional adj casual, desultory, fit-
obstruct vb arrest, bar, block, bring ful, infrequent, intermittent, irregu-
to a standstill, check, curb, delay, lar, odd, inf once in a while, periodic,
deter, frustrate, halt, hamper, random, rare, scattered, spasmodic,
 277
offensive
sporadic, uncommon, unpredictable. alous, atypical, bizarre, inf cranky,
Opp FREQUENT, REGULAR. curious, deviant, different, eccentric,
occult adj > s u pe r n a t u r a l . • n black exceptional, extraordinary, freak,
arts, black magic, cabbalism, diab- funny, idiosyncratic, incongruous,
olism, occultism, sorcery, the super- inexplicable, inf kinky, outlandish,
natural, witchcraft. out of the ordinary, peculiar, puzz-
ling, queer, rare, singular, strange,
occupant n denizen, householder, uncharacteristic, uncommon, uncon-
incumbent, inhabitant, lessee, ventional, unexpected, unusual,
lodger, occupier, owner, resident, weird. Opp n o r ma l .
tenant.
oddments plur n bits, bits and
occupation n 1 incumbency, lease, pieces, fragments, infjunk, leftovers,
occupancy, possession, residency, litter, odds and ends, offcuts, rem-
tenancy, tenure, use. 2 appropri- nants, scraps, shreds, unwanted pieces,
ation, colonization, conquest, inva-
odious adj detestable, execrable,
sion, oppression, seizure, subjection,
loathsome, offensive, repugnant,
subjugation, suzerainty, inf takeover,
repulsive. > h a t e f u l .
usurpation. 3 appointment, busi-
ness, calling, career, employment, odorous adj fragrant, odoriferous,
job, inf line, metier, position, post, perfumed, scented. > s me l l in g .
profession, situation, trade, vocation, odour n aroma, bouquet, fragrance,
work. 4 leisure occupation, activity, nose, redolence, scent, smell, stench,
diversion, entertainment, hobby, inf stink.
interest, pastime, pursuit, recreation. odourless adj deodorized,
occupy vb 1 dwell in, inhabit, live in, unscented. Opp o d o r o u s .
move into, reside in, take up resid- offence n 1 breach, crime, fault,
ence in, tenant. 2 occupy space, fill, felony, infringement, lapse, mal-
take up, use, utilize. 3 capture, efaction, misdeed, misdemeanour,
colonize, conquer, garrison, invade, outrage, peccadillo, sin, transgres-
overrun, possess, subjugate, take sion, trespass, violation, wrong,
over, take possession of. 4 occupy your wrongdoing. 2 anger, annoyance,
time, absorb, busy, divert, engage, en- disgust, displeasure, hard feelings,
gross, involve, preoccupy, occupied indignation, irritation, pique, resent-
> BUSY. ment, inf upset, give offence t>
occur vb appear, arise, befall, be OFFEND.
found, chance, come about, come offend vb 1 affront, anger, annoy,
into being, old use come to pass, inf cause offence, chagrin, disgust, dis-
crop up, develop, exist, happen, please, embarrass, give offence, hurt
manifest itself, materialize, inf show your feelings, insult, irritate, make
up, take place, inf transpire, inf turn angiy, inf miff, outrage, pain, pro-
out, inf turn up. voke, inf put your back up, revolt,
occurrence n affair, case, circum- rile, sicken, slight, snub, upset, vex.
stance, development, event, happen- 2 offend against the law. do wrong,
ing, incident, manifestation, matter, transgress, violate, be offended be
occasion, phenomenon, proceeding. annoyed, inf take umbrage.
odd adj 1 odd numbers, uneven. Opp offender n criminal, culprit, delin-
e v e n . 2 an odd sock, extra, left over, inf
quent, evil-doer, guilty party, law-
one-off, remaining, single, spare, breaker, malefactor, miscreant,
superfluous, surplus, unmatched, outlaw, sinner, transgressor, wrong-
unused. 3 odd jobs, casual, irregular, doer.
miscellaneous, occasional, part-time, offensive adj 1 abusive, annoying,
random, sundry, varied, various. antisocial, coarse, detestable, dis-
4 odd behaviour, abnormal, anom- agreeable, disgusting, displeasing,
 278
offer
disrespectful, embarrassing, foul, president, principal, proctor, proprietor,
impolite, improper, indecent, insult- registrar, sheriff, steward, superin-
ing, loathsome, nasty, nauseating, tendent, supervisor, usher.
nauseous, noxious, objectionable, officiate vb adjudicate, be in charge,
obnoxious, inf off-putting, repug- he responsible, chair (a meeting), con-
nant, revolting, rude, sickening, duct, have authority, manage, pre-
unpleasant, unsavoury, vile, vulgar. side, referee, inf run (a meeting),
> o b s c e n e . Opp pl e a s a n t . 2 offensive umpire.
action, aggressive, antagonistic, officious adj inf bossy, bumptious,
attacking, belligerent, hostile, threat- inf cocky, dictatorial, forward, imper-
ening, warlike. Opp pe ac e abl e . • n > tinent, interfering, meddlesome,
ATTACK. meddling, overzealous, inf pushy,
offer n bid, proposal, proposition, self-appointed, self-important.
suggestion, tender. • vb 1 bid, offset vb cancel out, compensate for,
extend, give the opportunity of, hold counteract, counterbalance, make
out, make an offer of, make avail- amends for, make good, make up
able, proffer, put forward, put up, for, redress. > b a l a n c e .
suggest. 2 offer to help, come forward,
propose, inf show willing, volunteer, offshoot n branch, by-product, deriv-
ative, development, inf spin-off, sub-
offering n contribution, donation,
sidiary product.
gift, oblation, offertory, present, sac-
rifice. offspring n [sing] baby, child, des-
cendant, heir, successor, [plur]
offhand adj 1 abrupt, aloof, careless,
brood, family, fiy, issue, fitter, pro-
cavalier, cool, curt, off-handed, per- geny, old use seed, spawn, young.
functory, unceremonious, uncooper-
ative, uninterested. > c a s u a l . 2 > often adv again and again, inf all the
IMPROMPTU. time, commonly, constantly, con-
tinually, frequently, generally,
office n 1 bureau, room, workplace,
habitually, many times, regularly,
workroom. 2 appointment, assign-
repeatedly, time after time, time and
ment, commission, duty, function, again, usually.
job, occupation, place, position, post,
responsibility, role, situation, work. oil vb grease, lubricate.
officer n 1 adjutant, aide-de-camp, oily adj 1 buttery, fat, fatty, greasy,
CO, commandant, commanding of- oleaginous. 2 an oily manner. > o b -
ficer. 2 police officer, constable, PC, s e q u io u s .
policeman, policewoman, WPC. 3 > ointment n balm, cream, embroca-
OFFICIAL. tion, emollient, liniment, lotion,
official adj accredited, approved, paste, salve, unguent.
authentic, authoritative, authorized, old adj 1 ancient, antediluvian, anti-
bona fide, certified, formal, lawful, quated, antique, crumbling, decayed,
legal, legitimate, licensed, organized, decaying, decrepit, dilapidated, early,
proper, recognized, true, trustwor- historic, medieval, obsolete, primit-
thy, valid. > f o r ma l . • n adminis- ive, quaint, ruined, superannuated,
trator, agent, appointee, authorized time-worn, venerable, veteran, vin-
person, bureaucrat, dignitary, exec- tage. > o l d -f a s h io n e d . 2 old times.
utive, functionary, mandarin, officer, bygone, classical, forgotten, former,
organizer, representative, respons- (time) immemorial, old use olden,
ible person, a bailiff, captain, chief, past, prehistoric, previous, primeval,
clerk of court, commander, commissioner, primitive, primordial, remote. 3 old
consul, customs officer, director, elder people, advanced in years, aged, inf
(of church), equerry, governor, man- doddery, elderly, geriatric, inf getting
ager, marshal, mayor, mayoress, minister, on, grey-haired, hoary, inf in your
monitor, ombudsman, overseer, prefect, dotage, long-lived, oldish, inf past it,
 279
open
senile. 4 old customs, age-old, endur- oncoming adj advancing, approach-
ing, established, lasting, long-stand- ing, facing, looming, nearing.
ing, time-honoured, traditional,
onerous adj burdensome, demand-
well-established. 5 old clothes, moth-
ing, heavy, laborious, taxing. > d if f i -
eaten, ragged, scruffy, shabby, cul t .
threadbare, worn, worn-out. 6 old
bread, dry, stale. 7 old tickets, can- one-sided adj 1 biased, bigoted, par-
celled, expired, invalid, used. 8 an old tial, partisan, prejudiced. 2 one-sided
hand, experienced, expert, familiar, game, ill-matched, unbalanced, un-
mature, practised, skilled, veteran. equal, uneven.
Opp n e w , y o u n g , old age inf declining onlooker n bystander, eyewitness,
years, decrepitude, inf dotage, senil- looker-on, observer, spectator,
ity. old person centenarian, inf watcher, witness.
fogey, inf fogy, nonagenarian, octo-
only adj lone, one, single, sole, solit-
genarian, pensioner, septuagenarian,
ary, unique. • adv barely, exclus-
old-fashioned adj anachronistic, ively, just, merely, simply, solely.
antiquated, archaic, backward-look-
ooze vb bleed, discharge, emit,
ing, conventional, dated, fusty, hack-
neyed, narrow-minded, obsolete, old, exude, leak, secrete, seep, weep.
inf old hat, out of date, out of touch, opaque adj cloudy, dark, dim, dull,
outdated, outmoded, passe, pedan- filmy, hazy, impenetrable, muddy,
tic, prim, proper, prudish, reac- murky, obscure, turbid, unclear. Opp
tionary, time-honoured, traditional, CLEAR.
unfashionable. Opp m o d e r n , old-fash- open adj 1 agape, ajar, gaping,
ioned person inf fogey, inf fogy, inf unbolted, unfastened, unlocked,
fuddy-duddy, pedant, reactionary, inf unsealed, unwrapped, wide, wide-
square. open, yawning. 2 accessible, avail-
omen n augury, auspice, foreboding, able, exposed, free, public, revealed,
forewarning, harbinger, indication, unenclosed, unprotected, unre-
portent, premonition, presage, prog- stricted. 3 open space, bare, broad,
nostication, sign, token, warning, inf clear, empty, extensive, spacious,
writing on the wall. treeless, uncrowded, undefended,
ominous adj baleful, dire, fateful, unfenced, unobstructed, vacant.
forbidding, foreboding, grim, ill- 4 open arms, extended, outstretched,
omened, ill-starred, inauspicious, spread out, unfolded. 5 open nature.
lowering, menacing, portentous, artless, candid, communicative, flex-
prophetic, sinister, threatening, ible, frank, generous, guileless,
unfavourable, unlucky, unpromising, honest, innocent, magnanimous,
unpropitious, warning. Opp a u s pi - open-minded, responsive, sincere,
c io u s . straightforward, transparent, unin-
hibited. 6 open defiance, apparent,
omission n 1 deletion, elimination,
barefaced, blatant, conspicuous,
exception, excision, exclusion. 2 fail- downright, evident, flagrant, obvi-
ure, gap, neglect, negligence, over-
ous, outspoken, overt, plain, uncon-
sight, shortcoming. cealed, undisguised, visible. 7 an open
omit vb 1 cross out, cut, dispense question, arguable, debatable, moot,
with, drop, edit out, eliminate, erase, problematical, unanswered, unde-
except, exclude, ignore, jump, leave cided, unresolved, unsettled. Opp
out, miss out, overlook, pass over, c l o s e d , h id d e n . • vb 1 unbar, unblock,
reject, skip, strike out. 2 fail, forget, unbolt, unclose, uncork, undo, un-
neglect. fasten, unfold, unfurl, unlatch, un-
omnipotent adj all-powerful, al- lock, unroll, unseal, untie, unwrap.
mighty, invincible, supreme, uncon- 2 become open, gape, yawn. 3 open
querable. proceedings, activate, begin, com-
opening 280

mence, establish, infget going, inau- convenient, favourable, felicitous,

gurate, initiate, inf kick off, launch, fortunate, good, happy, lucky, pro-
set in motion, set up, start. Opp c l o s e . pitious, right, suitable, timely, well-
opening adj first, inaugural, initial, timed. Opp in c o n v e n ie n t .
introductory. Opp f in a l . • n 1 aper- opportunity n inf break, chance,
ture, breach, break, chink, cleft, moment, occasion, opening, poss-
crack, crevice, cut, door, doorway, ibility, time.
fissure, gap, gash, gate, gateway,
hatch, hole, leak, mouth, orifice, out- oppose vb argue with, attack, be at
let, rent, rift, slit, slot, space, split, variance with, be opposed to, chal-
tear, vent. 2 beginning, birth, com- lenge, combat, compete against,
mencement, dawn, inauguration, confront, contend with, contest,
inception, initiation, launch, outset, contradict, controvert, counter,
start. 3 a business opening, inf break, counterattack, defy, disagree with,
chance, opportunity, way in. disapprove of, dissent from, face,
fight, object to, obstruct, inf pit your
operate vb 1 act, function, go, per- wits against, quarrel with, resist,
form, run, work. 2 operate a machine. rival, stand up to, inf take a stand
control, deal with, drive, handle, against, take issue with, withstand.
manage, use, work. 3 operate on a Opp s u ppo r t , opposed > h o s t il e , o p -
patient, do an operation, perform po s it e .
surgery.
opposite adj 1 antithetical, con-
operation n 1 control, direction,
fimction, functioning, management, flicting, contradictory, contrasting,
operating, performance, running, converse, different, hostile, incom-
working. 2 action, activity, business, patible, inconsistent, opposed, oppos-
campaign, effort, enterprise, exer- ing, rival. 2 contrary, reverse. 3 your
cise, manoeuvre, movement, pro- opposite number, corresponding,
cedure, proceeding, process, pro- equivalent, facing, matching, sim-
ject, transaction, undertaking, ven- ilar. • n antithesis, contrary, con-
ture. 3 [medical] biopsy, surgery, verse, reverse.
transplant. opposition n antagonism, anti-
operational adj functioning, going, pathy, competition, defiance, disap-
in operation, in use, in working proval, enmity, hostility, objection,
order, operating, operative, running, resistance, scepticism, unfriendli-
injup and running, usable, working. ness. > OPPONENT. Opp SUPPORT.
operative adj 1 > o pe r a t io n a l . 2 the oppress vb abuse, afflict, burden,
operative word, crucial, important, crush, depress, encumber, enslave,
key, principal, relevant, significant. exploit, grind down, harass, intim-
• n > WORKER. idate, keep under, maltreat, over-
opinion n assessment, attitude, burden, persecute, pressurize, inf
belief, comment, conclusion, conjec- ride roughshod over, subdue, sub-
ture, conviction, estimate, feeling, jugate, terrorize, inf trample on, tyr-
guess, idea, impression, judgement, annize, weigh down.
notion, perception, point of view, oppressed adj browbeaten, down-
sentiment, theory, thought, view, trodden, enslaved, exploited, mis-
viewpoint, way of thinking. used, persecuted, subjugated, tyr-
opponent n adversary, antagonist, annized.
challenger, competitor, contender, oppression n abuse, despotism,
contestant, enemy, foe, opposer,
enslavement, exploitation, harass-
opposition, rival. Opp a l l y . ment, injustice, maltreatment, per-
opportune adj advantageous, ap- secution, pressure, subjection, sub-
propriate, auspicious, beneficial, jugation, suppression, tyranny.
281 organic
oppressive adj 1 brutal, cruel, archy, kind, level, rank, sort, status.
despotic, harsh, repressive, tyran- 4 in good order, condition, repair,
nical, undemocratic, unjust. 2 air- state. 5 orders to be obeyed, command,
less, close, heavy, hot, humid, muggy, decree, direction, directive, edict,
stifling, stuffy, suffocating, sultry. fiat, injunction, instruction, law,
optimism n buoyancy, cheerfulness, mandate, ordinance, regulation,
confidence, hope, idealism, positive- requirement, rule. 6 an order for
ness. Opp PESSIMISM. goods, application, booking, commis-
sion, demand, mandate, request, re-
optimistic adj buoyant, cheerful,
quisition, reservation. 7 religious
confident, expectant, hopeful, ideal-
orders, association, brotherhood,
istic, inf looking on the bright side,
community, fraternity, group, guild,
positive, sanguine. Opp pe s s imis t ic . lodge, sect, sisterhood, society, so-
optimum adj best, finest, firstclass, dality, sorority. Opp d is o r d e r . • vb 1
first-rate, highest, ideal, maximum, arrange, categorize, classify, codify,
most favourable, perfect, prime, lay out, organize, put in order, sort
superlative, top. out, tidy up. 2 old use bid, charge,
option n alternative, chance, choice, command, compel, decree, demand,
election, possibility, selection. direct, enjoin, instruct, ordain, re-
quire, tell. 3 apply for, ask for, book,
optional adj avoidable, discretion-
aiy, dispensable, elective, inessential, reserve, requisition, send away for.
possible, unforced, unnecessaiy, orderly adj 1 careful, methodical,
voluntaiy. Opp c o mpu l s o r y . neat, organized, regular, symmetri-
oral adj by mouth, said, spoken, cal, systematic, tidy, well-arranged,
unwritten, uttered, verbal, vocal, well-organized, well-prepared. Opp
voiced. CONFUSED, DISORGANIZED. 2 civilized,
controlled, decorous, disciplined,
oratory n declamation, eloquence,
law-abiding, peaceable, polite,
enunciation, fluency, inf gift of restrained, well-behaved, well-man-
the gab, grandiloquence, magnilo- nered. Opp UNDISCIPLINED.
quence, rhetoric, speaking, speech
making. ordinary adj accustomed, average,
orbit n circuit, course, path, revolu- common, inf common or garden,
tion, trajectoiy. • vb circle, encircle, commonplace, conventional, cus-
go round, travel round. tomaiy, established, eveiyday, fair,
familiar, habitual, humble, in/hum-
orbital adj circular, encircling, drum, indifferent, mediocre, me-
orchestrate vb 1 arrange, compose. dium, middling, moderate, modest,
2 > ORGANIZE. mundane, nondescript, normal,
ordeal n affliction, anguish, diffi- orthodox, passable, pedestrian, plain,
culty, distress, hardship, miseiy, inf prosaic, quotidian, reasonable, regu-
nightmare, pain, suffering, test, tor- lar, routine, inf run-of-the-mill, sat-
ture, trial, tribulation, trouble. isfactoiy, simple, inf so-so, standard,
stock, traditional, typical, undis-
order n 1 arrangement, array, clas- tinguished, unexceptional, unex-
sification, codification, disposition, citing, unimpressive, uninspired,
lay-out, inf line-up, neatness, organ- uninteresting, unpretentious, un-
ization, pattern, progression, se- remarkable, unsurprising, usual,
quence, series, succession, system, well-known, workaday. Opp e x t r a -
tidiness. 2 calm, control, discipline, o r d in a r y .
good behaviour, government, har-
mony, law and order, obedience, organic adj 1 animate, biological,
orderliness, peace, peacefulness, growing, live, living, natural, 2 an
quiet, rule. 3 social orders, caste, cat- organic whole, coherent, coordin-
egoiy, class, degree, group, hier- ated, evolving, integral, integrated,
organism 282

methodical, organized, structured, real, true, unique. 3 original ideas, cre-

systematic. ative, first-hand, fresh, imaginative,
organism n animal, being, cell, crea-
ingenious, innovative, inspired,
ture, living thing, plant. inventive, new, novel, resourceful,
thoughtful, unconventional, unfa-
organization n 1 arrangement, cat- miliar, unique, unusual. Opp h a c k -
egorization, classification, codifica- n eyed.
tion, composition, coordination,
logistics, organizing, planning, regi- originate vb 1 arise, be born, be
mentation, inf running, structuring. derived, be descended, begin, come,
2 a business organization, alliance,
commence, crop up, derive, emanate,
association, body, business, club, emerge, issue, proceed, spring up,
combine, company, concern, confed- start, stem. 2 beget, be the inventor
eration, conglomerate, consortium, of, bring about, coin, conceive, cre-
corporation, federation, firm, group, ate, design, discover, engender,
institute, institution, league, net- found, give birth to, inaugurate, ini-
work, inf outfit, party, society, syn- tiate, inspire, institute, introduce,
dicate, union. invent, launch, mastermind, pioneer,
produce, think up.
organize vb 1 arrange, catalogue,
categorize, classify, codify, compose, ornament n accessory, adornment,
coordinate, group, order, inf pigeon- bauble, beautification, decoration,
hole, put in order, rearrange, regi- embellishment, embroidery, en-
ment, inf run, sort, sort out, hancement, filigree, frill, frippery,
structure, systematize, tabulate, tidy garnish, gewgaw, ornamentation,
up. Opp ju mb l e . 2 build, coordinate, tracery, trimming, trinket. > j e w -
create, deal with, establish, make e l l e r y . • vb adorn, beautify, deck, dec-
arrangements for, manage, mobilize, orate, dress up, elaborate, embellish,
orchestrate, plan, put together, run, emblazon, emboss, embroider, en-
inf see to, set up, take care of. or- hance, festoon, garnish, prettify,
ganized > OFFICIAL, SYSTEMATIC. trim.
orgy n Bacchanalia, inf binge, ornamental adj attractive, decor-
debauch, inf fling, party, inf rave-up, ative, fancy, flashy, pretty, showy.
revel, revelry, Saturnalia, inf spree. ornate adj arabesque, baroque, inf
orient vb acclimatize, accommodate, busy, decorated, elaborate, fancy,
accustom, adapt, adjust, condition, flamboyant, florid, flowery, fussy,
familiarize, orientate, position. luxuriant, ornamented, overdone,
pretentious, rococo. Opp pl a in .
oriental adj Asiatic, eastern, far-east-
ern. orphan n foundling, stray, waif,
origin n 1 base, basis, beginning, orthodox adj accepted, accustomed,
birth, cause, commencement, cradle, approved, authorized, common, con-
creation, dawn, derivation, founda- formist, conservative, conventional,
tion, fount, fountainhead, genesis, customary, established, mainstream,
inauguration, inception, launch, out- normal, official, ordinary, prevailing,
set, provenance, root, source, start, recognized, regular, standard, tradi-
well-spring. Opp e n d . 2 humble origins. tional, usual, well-established. Opp
ancestry, background, descent, UNCONVENTIONAL.
extraction, family, genealogy, her- ostensible adj alleged, apparent,
itage, lineage, parentage, pedigree, outward, pretended, professed, inf
start in life, stock. put-on, reputed, specious, supposed,
original adj 1 aboriginal, archetypal, visible. Opp r e a l .
earliest, first, initial, native, primal, ostentation n affectation, dis-
primitive, primordial. 2 original play, exhibitionism, flamboyance,
antiques, actual, authentic, genuine, inf flashiness, flaunting, parade,
 283 outrageous
pretention, pretentiousness, self- a bl e. Opp in c o m in g , outgoings >
advertisement, show, showing-off, EXPENSE.
inf swank. Opp mo d e s t y . outing n excursion, expedition,
ostentatious adj flamboyant, inf jaunt, picnic, ride, tour, trip.
flashy, pretentious, showy, inf outlast vb outlive, survive.
swanky, vainglorious. > b o a s t f u l . Opp
outlaw n bandit, brigand, criminal,
MODEST.
deserter, desperado, fugitive, high-
ostracize vb avoid, banish, injblack, wayman, marauder, outcast, ren-
blackball, blacklist, boycott, cast out, egade, robber. • vb ban, exclude,
cold-shoulder, inf cut, inf cut dead, forbid, prohibit, proscribe. > b a n is h .
exclude, excommunicate, expel, outlet n 1 channel, discharge, duct,
isolate, reject, inf send to Coventry, egress, escape route, exit, mouth,
shun, shut out, snub. Opp b e f r ie n d . opening, orifice, safety valve, vent,
oust vb banish, drive out, eject, expel, way out. 2 > s h o p .
injkick out, remove, replace, inf sack, outline n 1 abstract, injbare bones,
supplant, take over from, unseat. diagram, digest, draft, framework,
outbreak n epidemic, inf flare-up, plan, precis, resume, inf rough idea,
plague, rash, upsurge. inf rundown, scenario, skeleton,
sketch, summary, synopsis, thumb-
outburst n attack, effusion, erup-
nail sketch. 2 contour, figure, form,
tion, explosion, fit, flood, outbreak,
profile, shadow, shape, silhouette.
outpouring, paroxysm, rush, spasm,
• vb delineate, draft, give the gist of,
surge, upsurge.
give the outline, plan out, precis,
outcast n castaway, displaced per- rough out, sketch out, summarize.
son, exile, leper, outlaw, outsider, outlook n 1 aspect, panorama,
pariah, refugee, reject, untouchable. scene, sight, vantage point, view,
outcome n conclusion, con- vista. 2 your mental outlook, angle, atti-
sequence, effect, end-product, tude, frame of mind, opinion, per-
result, sequel, upshot. spective, point of view, position,
outcry n cry of disapproval, dissent, slant, standpoint, viewpoint. 3 the
hue and ciy, objection, opposition, weather outlook, expectations, fore-
protest, protestation, remonstrance. cast, inf look-out, prediction, prog-
nosis, prospect.
outdo vb beat, defeat, exceed, excel,
outlying adj distant, far-away, far-
inf get the better of, outbid, outdis-
tance, outrun, outshine, outstrip, flung, far-off, outer, outermost,
outweigh, overcome, surpass, top, remote. Opp c e n t r a l .
trump. output n achievement, crop, harvest,
production, productivity, result,
outdoor adj alfresco, open-air, out
yield.
of doors, outside.
outrage n 1 atrocity, crime, inf dis-
outer adj 1 exterior, external, out- grace, enormity, indignity, outra-
side, outward, superficial, surface. geous act, scandal, inf sensation,
2 distant, further, outlying, peri- violation. 2 anger, bitterness, dis-
pheral, remote. Opp in n e r . gust, fuiy, horror, indignation, re-
outfit n 1 accoutrements, attire, cos- sentment, revulsion, shock, wrath. •
tume, ensemble, equipment, garb, vb > ANGER.
inf gear, inf get-up, infrig, suit, trap- outrageous adj 1 abominable, atro-
pings, inf turn-out. 2 t> o r g a n iz a t io n . cious, barbaric, beastly, bestial, crim-
outgoing adj 1 outgoing president. inal, cruel, disgracefill, disgusting,
departing, emeritus, ex-, former, last, execrable, infamous, iniquitous,
leaving, past, retiring. 2 outgoing tide. monstrous, nefarious, notorious,
ebbing, falling, retreating. 3 > soci- offensive, preposterous, revolting,
outside 284

scandalous, shocking, unspeakable, overcast adj black, clouded, cloudy,

unthinkable, vile, villainous, wicked. dark, dismal, dull, gloomy, grey,
2 outrageous prices, excessive, extor- leaden, lowering, murky, sombre,
tionate, extravagant, immoderate, starless, stormy, sunless, threaten-
unreasonable. Opp r e a s o n a b l e . ing. Opp CLOUDLESS.
outside adj 1 exterior, external, fa- overcoat n greatcoat, mackintosh,
cing, outer, outward, superficial, top-coat, trench-coat.
surface, visible. 2 outside interfer- overcome adj at a loss, beaten, inf
ence. alien, extraneous, foreign. 3 bowled over, in/done in, exhausted,
outside chance. > r e mo t e . • n appear- overwhelmed, prostrate, speechless.
ance, case, casing, exterior, facade, • Vb > OVERTHROW.
face, front, look, shell, skin, surface.
overcrowded adj congested,
outsider n alien, foreigner, inf gate- crammed, crawling, filled to capac-
crasher, guest, immigrant, inter- ity, full, jammed, inf jampacked,
loper, intruder, invader, newcomer, overloaded, packed.
non-member, non-resident, outcast,
stranger, trespasser, visitor. overdue adj 1 belated, delayed, late,
slow, tardy, unpunctual. Opp e a r l y .
outskirts plur n borders, edge, en- 2 overdue bills, due, outstanding,
virons, fringe, margin, outer areas, owing, unpaid, unresolved, un-
peripheiy, purlieus, suburbs. Opp settled.
CENTRE.
overeat vb be greedy, eat too much,
outspoken adj blunt, candid, direct, feast, gorge, gormandize, inf guzzle,
explicit, forthright, frank, plain- indulge yourself, inf make a pig of
spoken, tactless, unambiguous, un- yourself, overindulge, inf stuff your-
diplomatic, unequivocal, unre- self.
served. t> HONEST. Opp EVASIVE.
overflow vb brim over, flood, pour
outstanding adj 1 above the rest, over, run over, spill, well up.
celebrated, conspicuous, distin-
guished, dominant, eminent, excel- overgrown adj 1 outsize, oversized.
lent, exceptional, extraordinaiy, > b ig . 2 overgrown garden, overrun,
first-class, first-rate, great, im- rank, tangled, uncut, unkempt,
portant, impressive, memorable, untidy, untrimmed, unweeded,
notable, noteworthy, noticeable, pre- weedy, wild.
dominant, pre-eminent, prominent, overhang vb beetle, bulge, jut, pro-
remarkable, singular, special, strik- ject, protrude, stick out.
ing, superior, top rank, unrivalled. > overhaul vb 1 check over, examine,
FAMOUS. Opp ORDINARY. 2 > OVERDUE.
inf fix, inspect, mend, rebuild, recon-
outward adj apparent, evident, dition, refurbish, renovate, repair,
exterior, external, manifest, notice- restore, service. 2 > o v e r t a k e .
able, observable, obvious, ostens- overhead adj aerial, elevated, high,
ible, outer, outside, superficial, sur- overhanging, raised, upper.
face, visible.
overlook vb 1 fail to notice, forget,
outwit vb deceive, dupe, fool, inf get
leave out, miss, neglect, omit. 2 con-
the better of, gull, hoax, hoodwink,
done, disregard, excuse, gloss over,
make a fool of, outfox, outman-
ignore, let pass, make allowances for,
oeuvre, inf outsmart, inf put one
pardon, pass over, pay no attention
over on, inf take in, trick. > c h e a t . to, inf shut your eyes to, inf turn a
oval adj egg-shaped, ellipsoidal, el- blind eye to, inf write off. 3 overlook a
liptical, oviform, ovoid. lake, face, front, have a view of, look
ovation n acclaim, acclamation, at, look down on, look on to.
applause, cheering, plaudits, praise. overpower vb > o v e r t h r o w .
285 owner
overpowering adj compelling, con- beat, bring down, conquer, crush,
suming, inescapable, insupportable, deal with, defeat, depose, dethrone,
irrepressible, irresistible, overriding, get the better of, inf lick, master,
overwhelming, powerful, strong, oust, overcome, overpower, over-
unbearable, uncontrollable, unen- turn, overwhelm, rout, inf send pack-
durable. ing, subdue, inf topple, triumph over,
oversee vb administer, be in charge unseat, vanquish, win against.
of, control, direct, invigilate, inf keep overtone n association, connotation,
an eye on, preside over, superintend, hint, implication, innuendo, rever-
supervise, watch over. beration, suggestion, undertone.
oversight n 1 carelessness, derelic- overturn vb 1 capsize, flip, invert,
tion of duty, error, failure, fault, mis- keel over, knock over, spill, tip over,
take, omission. 2 oversight of a job. topple, turn over, inf turn turtle, turn
administration, control, direction, upside down, up-end, upset. 2 >
management, supervision, surveil- OVERTHROW.
lance.
overwhelm vb 1 engulf, flood,
overstate vb inf blow up out of pro- immerse, inundate, submerge,
portion, embroider, exaggerate, mag- swamp. 2 t> o v e r t h r o w , overwhelm-
nify, make too much of, maximize, ing l> OVERPOWERING.
overemphasize, overstress.
owe vb be in debt, have debts.
overt adj apparent, blatant, clear,
evident, manifest, obvious, open, owing adj due, outstanding, overdue,
patent, plain, unconcealed, undis- owed, payable, unpaid, unsettled,
guised, visible. Opp s e c r e t . owing to because of, caused by, on
account of, resulting from, thanks
overtake vb catch up with, gain on,
to, through.
leave behind, outdistance, outpace,
outstrip, overhaul, pass. own vb be the owner of, have, hold,
overthrow n conquest, defeat,
possess, own up i> c o n f e s s .
destruction, masteiy, rout, subjuga- owner n freeholder, holder, landlady,
tion, suppression, unseating. • vb landlord, possessor, proprietor.
pace n 1 step, stride. 2 a fast pace. page n 1 folio, leaf, recto, sheet, side,
gait, inf lick, movement, quickness, verso. 2 errand-boy, messenger,
rate, speed, tempo, velocity. • vb > page-boy.
WALK. pageant n ceremony, display,
pacify vb appease, assuage, calm, extravaganza, parade, procession,
conciliate, humour, mollify, placate, show, spectacle, tableau.
quell, quieten, soothe, subdue, tame, pageantry n ceremony, display,
tranquillize. Opp a n g e r . formality, grandeur, magnificence,
pack n 1 bale, box, bundle, package, pomp, ritual, show, spectacle, splend-
packet, parcel. 2 backpack, duffel our.
bag, haversack, kitbag, knapsack, pain n ache, aching, affliction, agony,
rucksack. 3 > g r o u p. • vb 1 bundle anguish, cramp, crick, discomfort,
(up), fill, load, package, parcel up, distress, headache, hurt, irritation,
put, put together, store, stow, wrap ordeal, pang, smart, smarting, sore-
up. 2 compress, cram, crowd, jam, ness, spasm, stab, sting, suffering,
overcrowd, press, ram, squeeze, tenderness, throb, throes, toothache,
stuff, tamp down, wedge, pack off > torment, torture, twinge. • vb > h u r t .
DISMISS, pack up > FINISH.
painful adj 1 aching, inf achy, agon-
pact n agreement, alliance, izing, burning, cruel, excruciating,
armistice, arrangement, bargain, old use grievous, hard to bear, hurt-
compact, concord, concordat, con- ing, inflamed, piercing, raw, severe,
tract, covenant, deal, Fr entente, sharp, smarting, sore, inf splitting
league, peace, settlement, treaty, (head), stabbing, stinging, tender,
truce, understanding. throbbing. 2 distressing, harrowing,
pad n 1 cushion, filler, hassock, hurtful, laborious, inf traumatic, try-
kneeler, padding, pillow, stuffing, ing, unpleasant, upsetting, vexing.
wad. 2 jotter, memo pad, notebook, 3 a painful decision, difficult, hard,
stationery, writing pad. • vb cush- troublesome, uncongenial. Opp pa in -
ion, fill, line, pack, protect, stuff, l e s s . be painful > h u r t .
upholster, wad. pad out > e x t e n d .
painkiller n anaesthetic, analgesic,
padding n 1 filling, protection, anodyne, palliative, sedative.
upholstery, stuffing, wadding. 2 pro-
painless adj comfortable, easy,
lixity, verbiage, verbosity, inf waffle,
effortless, pain-free, simple, trouble-
wordiness.
free, undemanding. Opp pa in f u l .
paddle n oar, scull. • vb 1 propel,
paint n colour, colouring, dye, pig-
row, scull. 2 dabble, splash about,
ment, stain, tint. □ distemper, emul-
wade.
sion, enamel, gloss paint, lacquer, matt
paddock n enclosure, field, meadow, paint, oil-colour, oil-paint, oils, pastel,
pasture. primer, tempera, undercoat, varnish,
pagan adj atheistic, godless, hea- water-colour, whitewash. • vb 1 apply
then, idolatrous, infidel, irreligious, paint to, coat, colour, cover, daub,
polytheistic, unchristian. • n atheist, decorate, dye, enamel, gild, lacquer,
heathen, infidel, savage, unbeliever. redecorate, stain, tint, touch up, var-
287 panic-stricken
nish, whitewash. 2 delineate, depict, palpitate vb beat, flutter, pound,
describe, picture, portray, represent. pulsate, quiver, shiver, throb,
tremble, vibrate.
painter n artist, decorator, illus-
trator, miniaturist. paltry adj contemptible, incon-
sequential, insignificant, petty, inf
painting n fresco, landscape, minia- piddling, pitiable, puny, trifling,
ture, mural, oil-painting, portrait, unimportant, worthless. > s ma l l . Opp
still-life, water-colour. IMPORTANT.
pair n brace, couple, duet, duo, pamper vb coddle, cosset, humour,
mates, partners, partnership, set of indulge, mollycoddle, overindulge,
two, twins, twosome. • vb pair off, pet, spoil, spoonfeed.
pair up couple, double up, find a
partner, get together, join up, inf pamphlet n booklet, brochure, bul-
make a twosome, match up, inf pal letin, catalogue, circular, flyer,
up, team up. folder, handbill, handout, leaflet,
notice, tract.
palace n castle, chateau, mansion,
pan n container, utensil. □ billycan,
official residence, stately home. casserole, frying-pan, pot, saucepan, skil-
> HOUSE. let. • vb > CRITICIZE.
palatable adj acceptable, agreeable, panache n animation, brio, confid-
appetizing, easy to take, eatable, ed- ence, dash, elan, energy, enthusiasm,
ible, nice to eat, pleasant, tasty. Opp flair, flamboyance, flourish, savoir-
UNPALATABLE. faire, self-assurance, spirit, style,
palatial adj aristocratic, grand, swagger, verve, zest.
large-scale, luxurious, majestic, opu- pandemonium n babel, bedlam,
lent, inf posh, splendid, stately, up- chaos, confusion, hubbub, noise,
market. rumpus, turmoil, uproar. > c o mmo -
t io n .
pale adj 1 anaemic, ashen, blanched,
bloodless, cadaverous, colourless, pander n go-between, inf pimp, pro-
corpse-like, inf deathly, drained, eti- curer. • vb pander to bow to, cater
olated, ghastly, ghostly, ill-looking, for, fulfil, gratify, humour, indulge,
pallid, pasty, inf peaky, sallow, sickly, please, provide, satisfy.
unhealthy, wan, inf washed-out, inf pane n glass, light, panel, sheet of
whey-faced, white, whitish. 2 pale glass, window.
colours, bleached, dim, faded, faint,
light, pastel, subtle, weak. Opp b r ig h t . panel n 1 insert, pane, panelling, rect-
• vb become pale, blanch, blench, angle, plur wainscot. 2 committee,
dim, etiolate, fade, lighten, lose col- group, jury, team.
our, whiten. panic n alarm, consternation, inf
pall n cloth, mantle, shroud, veil. flap, horror, hysteria, stampede, ter-
> c o v e r in g . • vb become boring, be- ror. • vb become panic-stricken, inf
come uninteresting, cloy, irritate, fall apart, inf flap, inf go to pieces, inf
jade, sate, satiate, weary. lose your head, inf lose your nerve,
overreact, stampede. > f e a r .
palliative adj alleviating, calming,
panic-stricken adj alarmed, inf
reassuring, sedative, soothing. • n beside yourself, disorientated, fran-
painkiller, sedative, tranquillizer.
tic, frenzied, horrified, hysterical, inf
palpable adj apparent, corporeal,’ in a cold sweat, infin a tizzy, jumpy,
evident, manifest, obvious, patent, overexcited, panicky, panic-struck,
physical, real, solid, substantial, tan- terror-stricken, undisciplined, un-
gible, touchable, visible. Opp in t a n - nerved, worked-up. > f r ig h t e n e d . Opp
g ib l e . c a l m.
panorama 288

panorama n landscape, perspective, respondence, equivalence, kinship,

prospect, scene, view, vista. resemblance, similarity. • vb be par-
panoramic adj commanding, extens- allel to, be parallel with, compare
ive, scenic, sweeping, wide. with, correspond to, duplicate, echo,
equate with, keep pace with, match,
pant vb blow, breathe quickly, gasp, remind you of, run alongside.
inf huff and puff, puff, wheeze, pant-
ing > BREATHLESS. paralyse vb anaesthetize, cripple,
pants n 1 old use bloomers, boxer deactivate, deaden, desensitize, dis-
shorts, briefs, camiknickers, draw- able, freeze, halt, immobilize, inca-
ers, knickers, panties, pantihose, pacitate, lame, numb, petrify, stop,
shorts, inf smalls, trunks, under- stun.
pants, inf undies, Y-ffonts. 2 > paralysed adj crippled, dead, desens-
TROUSERS. itized, disabled, handicapped, im-
paper n 1 folio, leaf, sheet. □ A4 (Al, mobile, immovable, incapacitated,
A2, etc), card, cardboard, cartridge lame, numb, palsied, paralytic, para-
paper, foolscap, manila, notepaper, plegic, rigid, unusable, useless.
papyrus, parchment, postcard, quarto,
stationery, tissue-paper, toilet paper, paralysis n deadness, immobility,
tracing-paper, vellum, wallpaper, wrap- numbness, palsy, paraplegia.
ping-paper, writing-paper. 2 certificate, paraphernalia plur n accessories,
credentials, deed, document, form, apparatus, baggage, belongings,
inf ID, identification, licence, record. chattels, inf clobber, effects, equip-
3 the daily paper, inf daily, journal, ment, gear, impedimenta, materials,
newspaper, infrag, tabloid. 4 an aca- inf odds and ends, possessions, prop-
demic paper, article, discourse, dis- erty, inf rig, stuff, tackle, things, trap-
sertation, essay, monograph, thesis, pings.
treatise.
paraphrase vb explain, interpret,
parable n allegoiy, exemplum, fable,
moral tale. > w r it in g . put into other words, rephrase,
restate, reword, rewrite, translate.
parade n cavalcade, ceremony,
column, cortege, display, file, march- parcel n bale, box, bundle, carton,
past, motorcade, pageant, proces- case, pack, package, packet, parcel
sion, review, show, spectacle. • vb out > d iv id e , parcel up > pa c k .
1 assemble, file past, form up, line parch vb bake, burn, dehydrate, de-
up, make a procession, march past, siccate, dry, scorch, shrivel, wither,
present yourself, process. > w a l k . parched > d r y , t h ir s t y .
2 > DISPLAY.
paradise n Eden, Elysium, heaven, pardon n absolution, amnesty, con-
Shangri-La, Utopia. donation, discharge, exculpation,
exoneration, forgiveness, indulgence,
paradox n absurdity, anomaly, con-
mercy, release, reprieve. • vb absolve,
tradiction, incongruity, inconsist- condone, exculpate, excuse, exoner-
ency, self-contradiction.
ate, forgive, free, grant pardon, let
paradoxical adj absurd, anomalous, off, overlook, release, remit, reprieve,
conflicting, contradictory, illogical, set free, spare.
improbable, incongruous, self-con-
tradictory. pardonable adj allowable, condon-
able, excusable, forgivable, justifi-
parallel adj 1 equidistant. 2 parallel
events, analogous, cognate, contem- able, minor, negligible, petty,
understandable, venial (sin). Opp
porary, corresponding, equivalent,
UNFORGIVABLE.
like, matching, similar. • n 1 ana-
logue, counterpart, equal, likeness, parent n begetter, father, guardian,
match. 2 analogy, comparison, cor- mother, procreator, progenitor.
 289 partner
parentage n ancestry, birth, engage, enter, help, join in, partake,
descent, extraction, family, line, lin- share, take part.
eage, pedigree, stock.
participation n activity, assistance,
park n common, gardens, green, complicity, contribution, coopera-
recreation ground. □ amusement park, tion, engagement, involvement, part-
arboretum, botanical gardens, car-park, nership, sharing.
estate, national park, nature reserve, particle n 1 bit, crumb, dot, drop,
parkland, reserve, theme park. • vb fragment, grain, hint, iota, jot, mite,
deposit, leave, place, position, put, morsel, old use mote, piece, scintilla,
station, store, park yourself > s e t t l e . scrap, shred, sliver, inf smidgen,
parliament n assembly, conclave, speck, trace. 2 atom, electron, mol-
congress, convocation, council, diet, ecule, neutron.
government, legislature, lower particular adj 1 distinct, idiosyn-
house, senate, upper house. cratic, individual, peculiar, personal,
parody n burlesque, caricature, dis- singular, specific, uncommon,
tortion, imitation, lampoon, mim- unique, unmistakable. 2 particular
icry, satire, inf send-up, inf spoof, inf with detail, exact, nice, painstaking,
take-off, travesty. • vb ape, burlesque, precise, rigorous, scrupulous, thor-
caricature, guy, imitate, lampoon, ough. 3 gave particular pleasure, espe-
mimic, satirize, inf send up, inf take cial, exceptional, important, marked,
off, travesty. > r id ic u l e . notable, noteworthy, outstanding,
parry vb avert, block, deflect, evade, significant, special, unusual. 4 par-
fend off, push away, repel, repulse, ticular about food, choosy, critical, dis-
stave off, ward off. criminating, fastidious, finical,
finicky, fussy, meticulous, nice, inf
part n 1 bit, branch, component, con- pernickety, selective. Opp g e n e r a l ,
stituent, department, division, ele- e a s y g o in g , particulars circumstances,
ment, fraction, fragment, ingredient, details, facts, information, si low-
parcel, particle, percentage, piece, down.
portion, ramification, scrap, section,
sector, segment, shard, share, single parting n departure, farewell, going
item, subdivision, unit. 2 depart- away, leave-taking, leaving, saying
ment, faction, party, section, subdi- goodbye, separation, splitting up,
vision, unit. 3 part of a book, chapter, valediction.
episode. 4 part of a town, area, district, partisan adj biased, bigoted, blink-
neighbourhood, quarter, region, sec- ered, devoted, factional, fanatical,
tor, vicinity. 5 part of the body, limb, narrow-minded, one-sided, partial,
member, organ. 6 part in a play. prejudiced, sectarian, unfair. Opp
cameo, character, role. • vb 1 cut impa r t ia l . • n adherent, devotee,
off, detach, disconnect, divide, pull fanatic, follower, freedom fighter,
apart, separate, sever, split, sunder. guerrilla, resistance fighter, sup-
Opp j o in . 2 break away, depart, go porter, underground fighter, zealot.
away, leave, part company, quit, say partition n 1 break-up, division, sep-
goodbye, separate, split up, take aration, splitting up. 2 barrier, panel,
leave, withdraw. Opp me e t , part with room-divider, screen, wall. • vb cut
t> r e l in q u is h , take part > pa r t ic ipa t e . up, divide, parcel out, separate off,
partial adj 1 imperfect, incomplete, share out, split up, subdivide.
limited, qualified, unfinished. Opp partner n 1 accessory, accomplice,
c o mpl e t e . 2 partial Judge, biased, one- ally, assistant, associate, inf bedfel-
sided, partisan, prejudiced, unfair. low, collaborator, colleague, com-
Opp impa r t ia l , be partial to > l ik e . panion, comrade, confederate,
participate vb assist, be active, be helper, inf mate, si sidekick. 2 con-
involved, contribute, cooperate, sort, husband, mate, spouse, wife.
partnership 290

partnership n 1 affiliation, alliance, ing on, passing, progress, progres-

association, combination, company, sion, transition. 3 sea passage, cross-
confederation, cooperative, syndic- ing, cruise, voyage. > j o u r n e y .
ate. 2 collaboration, complicity, coop- 4 through passage, pass, route, thor-
eration. 3 marriage, relationship, oughfare, tunnel, way through.
union. > o pe n in g . 5 passage from a book.
party n 1 celebration, inf do, festivity, citation, episode, excerpt, extract,
function, gathering, inf get-together, paragraph, part, piece, portion,
inf jollification, inf knees-up, merry- quotation, scene, section, selection.
making, inf rave-up, inf shindig, passenger n commuter, rider, trav-
social gathering. □ ball, banquet, bar- eller, voyager.
becue, ceilidh, dance, inf disco, dis-
cotheque, feast, inf hen-party, passer-by n bystander, onlooker,
house-warming, orgy, picnic, reception, witness.
reunion, inf stag-party, tea-party, wed-
ding. 2 a political party, alliance, asso- passion n appetite, ardour, avidity,
ciation, bloc, cabal, inf camp, caucus, avidness, commitment, craving,
clique, coalition, faction, junta, craze, desire, drive, eagerness, emo-
league, sect, side. > g r o u p . tion, enthusiasm, fanaticism, fer-
vency, fervour, fire, flame, frenzy,
pass n 1 canyon, col, cut, defile, gap, greed, heat, hunger, infatuation,
gorge, gully, opening, passage, intensity, keenness, love, lust, mania,
ravine, valley, way through. 2 identity obsession, strong feeling, suffering,
pass, authority, authorization, clear- thirst, urge, urgency, vehemence,
ance, inf ID, licence, passport, per- zeal, zest.
mission, permit, safe-conduct, ticket,
warrant. • vb 1 go beyond, go by, passionate adj ardent, aroused,
move on, move past, outstrip, over- avid, burning, committed, eager,
haul, overtake, proceed, progress, inf emotional, enthusiastic, excited,
thread your way. 2 time passes, disap- fanatical, fervent, fiery, frenzied,
pear, elapse, fade, go away, lapse, greedy, heated, hot, hungry, impas-
tick by, vanish. 3 pass drinks, circu- sioned, infatuated, inflamed, intense,
late, deal out, deliver, give, hand lustful, manic, obsessive, roused,
over, offer, present, share, submit, sexy, strong, urgent, vehement, vi-
supply, transfer. 4 pass a resolution. olent, worked up, zealous. Opp a pa -
agree, approve, authorize, confirm, t h e t ic .
decree, enact, establish, ordain, pro-
nounce, ratify, validate. 5 I pass! inf passive adj apathetic, complaisant,
give in, opt out, say nothing, waive compliant, deferential, docile, impass-
your rights, pass away > d ie . pass ive, inert, inactive, long-suffering,
on > TRANSFER, pass out > FAINT, pass malleable, non-violent, patient,
over> IGNORE. phlegmatic, pliable, quiescent, recept-
passable adj 1 acceptable, adequate, ive, resigned, sheepish, submissive,
admissible, allowable, all right, fair, supine, tame, tractable, unassertive,
indifferent, mediocre, middling, unmoved, unresisting, yielding.
moderate, not bad, ordinary, satis- > CALM. Opp ACTIVE.
factory, inf so-so, tolerable. Opp u n a c - past adj bygone, dead, inf dead and
c e pt a b l e . 2 clear, navigable, open,
buried, earlier, ended, finished, for-
traversable, unblocked, unob- gotten, former, gone, historical, late,
structed, usable. Opp impa s s a b l e . olden (days), inf over and done with,
passage n i corridor, entrance, previous, recent, sometime. • n
hall, hallway, lobby, passageway, antiquity, days gone by, former
vestibule. 2 passage of time, advance, times, history, old days, olden days,
flow, lapse, march, movement, mov- past times. Opp f u t u r e .
 291
patronize
paste n 1 adhesive, fixative, glue, patience n 1 calmness, composure,
gum. 2 pate, spread. • vb fix, glue, endurance, equanimity, forbearance,
Stick. > FASTEN. fortitude, leniency, long-suffering,
pastiche n blend, composite, com- resignation, restraint, self-control,
pound, inf hotchpotch, mess, miscel- serenity, stoicism, toleration, inf
lany, mixture, inf motley collection, unflappability. 2 work with patience.
patchwork, selection. assiduity, determination, diligence,
doggedness, endurance, firmness,
pastime n activity, amusement,
perseverance, persistence, pertina-
avocation, distraction, diversion, en- city, inf stickability, tenacity.
tertainment, fun, game, hobby,
leisure activity, occupation, play, patient adj 1 accommodating, acqui-
recreation, relaxation, sport. escent, calm, compliant, composed,
docile, easygoing, even-tempered,
pastoral adj 1 agrarian, agricultural,
forbearing, forgiving, lenient, long-
Arcadian, bucolic, country, farming, suffering, mild, philosophical, quiet,
idyllic, outdoor, provincial, rural, rus- resigned, self-possessed, serene, sto-
tic. > PEACEFUL. Opp URBAN. 2 pastoral ical, submissive, tolerant, uncom-
duties, clerical, ecclesiastical, minis- plaining. 2 a patient worker.
terial, parochial, priestly. assiduous, determined, diligent,
pasture n field, grassland, grazing, dogged, persevering, persistent,
mead, meadow, paddock, pasturage. steady, tenacious, unhurried, untir-
pat vb caress, dab, slap, stroke, tap. ing. Opp impa t ie n t . • n case, invalid,
> TOUCH. outpatient, sufferer.
patch n dam, mend, piece, rein- patriot n derog chauvinist, loyalist,
forcement, repair. • vb cover, dam, nationalist, derog xenophobe.
fix, mend, reinforce, repair, sew up, patriotic adj derog chauvinistic, derog
stitch up. jingoistic, loyal, nationalistic, derog
patchy adj inf bitty, blotchy, chang- xenophobic.
ing, dappled, erratic, inconsistent, patriotism n derog chauvinism, derog
irregular, speckled, spotty, uneven, jingoism, loyalty, nationalism, derog
unpredictable, variable, varied, vary- xenophobia.
ing. Opp UNIFORM. patrol n 1 beat, guard, policing,
patent adj apparent, blatant, clear, sentiy-duty, surveillance, vigilance,
conspicuous, evident, flagrant, mani- watch. 2 guard, lookout, patrolman,
fest, obvious, open, plain, self- sentinel, sentry, watchman. • vb be
evident, transparent, undisguised, on patrol, defend, guard, inspect,
visible. keep a lookout, make the rounds,
path n 1 alley, bridle-path, bridle- police, protect, stand guard, tour,
way, esplanade, footpath, footway, walk the beat, watch over.
pathway, pavement, Amer sidewalk, patron n 1 advocate, inf an-
towpath, track, trail, walk, walkway, gel, backer, benefactor, champion,
way. > r o a d . 2 approach, course, defender, helper, philanthropist, pro-
direction, flight path, orbit, route, moter, sponsor, subscriber, sup-
trajectory, way. porter. 2 patron of a shop, client,
pathetic adj 1 affecting, distressing, customer, frequenter, inf regular,
emotional, emotive, heartbreaking, shopper.
heart-rending, lamentable, moving,’ patronage n backing, business, cus-
piteous, pitiable, pitiful, plaintive, tom, help, sponsorship, support,
poignant, stirring, touching, tragic. trade.
> SAD. 2 !> INADEQUATE. patronize vb 1 back, be a patron of,
pathos n emotion, feeling, pity, bring trade to, buy from, deal with,
poignancy, sadness, tragedy. encourage, frequent, give patronage
pattern 292

to, shop at, support. 2 be patronizing expenditure, fare, fee, figure, fine,
towards, humiliate, inf look down on, instalment, loan, outgoings, outlay,
inf look down your nose at, inf put pocket-money, premium, price, ran-
down, talk down to. patronizing > som, rate, remittance, reward, roy-
SUPERIOR. alty, inf sub, subscription,
pattern n 1 arrangement, decora- subsistence, supplement, surcharge,
tion, design, device, figuration, fig- tip, toll, wage. Opp in c o m e .
ure, motif, ornamentation, sequence, peace n 1 accord, agreement, amity,
shape, system, tessellation. 2 arche- conciliation, concord, friendliness,
type, criterion, example, exemplar, harmony, order. Opp c o n f l ic t .
guide, ideal, model, norm, original, 2 alliance, armistice, cease-fire, pact,
paragon, precedent, prototype, sam- treaty, truce. Opp w a r . 3 peace of mind.
ple, specimen, standard, yardstick. calm, calmness, peace and quiet,
pause n break, inf breather, breath- peacefulness, placidity, quiet, repose,
ing space, caesura, check, delay, gap, serenity, silence, stillness, tranquil-
halt, hesitation, hiatus, hold-up, lity. Opp ANXIETY.
interlude, intermission, interruption, peaceable adj amicable, civil, con-
interyal, lacuna, lapse, inf let-up, lull, ciliatory, cooperative, friendly,
moratorium, respite, rest, standstill, gentle, harmonious, inoffensive,
stop, stoppage, suspension, wait. • vb mild, non-violent, pacific, peace-
break off, delay, falter, halt, hang loving, placid, temperate, understand-
back, have a pause, hesitate, hold, ing. Opp QUARRELSOME.
mark time, rest, stop, inf take a peaceful adj balmy, calm, easy, gen-
break, inf take a breather, wait. tle, pacific, placid, pleasant, quiet,
pave vb asphalt, concrete, cover with relaxing, restful, serene, slow-mov-
paving, flag, old use macadamize, inf ing, soothing, still, tranquil, undis-
make up, surface, tarmac, tile, pave turbed, unruffled, untroubled. Opp
the way > pr e pa r e . NOISY, STORMY.
pavement n footpath, Amer side- peacemaker n adjudicator,
walk. > PATH. appeaser, arbitrator, conciliator,
pay n cash in hand, compensation, diplomat, intercessor, intermedi-
dividend, earnings, emoluments, fee, ary, mediator, reconciler, referee,
gain, honorarium, income, money, umpire.
payment, profit, recompense, reim- peak n 1 apex, brow, cap, crest,
bursement, remittance, return, crown, eminence, hill, mountain,
salary, settlement, stipend, take- pinnacle, point, ridge, summit, tip,
home pay, wages. • vb 1 inf cough up, top. 2 peak of your career, acme,
inf fork out, give, grant, hand over, apogee, climax, consummation, cri-
proffer, recompense, remunerate, sis, crown, culmination, height, high-
requite, spend, inf stump up. 2 pay est point, zenith.
debts, bear the cost of, clear, com-
peal n carillon, chime, chiming,
pensate, inf foot, honour, indemnify,
clangour, knell, reverberation, ring-
meet, pay back, pay off, pay up,
ing, tintinnabulation, toll. • vb
refund, reimburse, repay, settle.
chime, clang, resonate, ring, ring the
3 crime doesn’t pay. avail, benefit, be
changes, sound, toll.
profitable, pay off, produce results,
prove worthwhile, yield a return. peasant n [derog] boor, bumpkin,
4 pay for mistakes, be punished, suffer. churl, oaf, rustic, serf, swain, village
> a t o n e , pay back > r e t a l ia t e . idiot, yokel.
payment n advance, alimony, pebbles plur n cobbles, gravel,
allowance, charge, commission, com- stones.
pensation, contribution, cost, peculiar adj 1 aberrant, abnormal,
deposit, disbursement, donation, anomalous, atypical, bizarre, curi-
 293
pension
ous, deviant, eccentric, exceptional, titled person. □ baron, baroness, count-
freakish, funny, odd, offbeat, out- ess, duchess, duke, earl, lady, lord, mar-
landish, out of the ordinaiy, quaint, chioness, marquis, viscount, viscountess.
queer, quirky, strange, surprising, • vb have a look, look earnestly, spy,
uncommon, unconventional, un- squint. > l o o k , peers 1 aristocracy,
usual, weird. 2 your peculiar style. nobility, peerage. 2 colleagues, com-
characteristic, different, distinctive, peers, confreres, equals, fellows,
identifiable, idiosyncratic, individual, peer-group.
natural, particular, personal, private,
peevish adj cantankerous, churlish,
singular, special, unique, unmistak- crabby, crusty, curmudgeonly,
able. Opp COMMON, ORDINARY. grumpy, illhumoured, irritable, pet-
peculiarity n abnormality, charac- ulant, querulous, testy, touchy,
teristic, difference, distinctiveness, Waspish. > BAD-TEMPERED.
eccentricity, foible, idiosyncrasy,
peg n bolt, dowel, pin, rod, stick,
individuality, mannerism, oddity, thole-pin. • vb > f a s t e n .
outlandishness, quirk, singularity,
speciality, trait, uniqueness. pelt n coat, fur, hide, skin. • vb assail,
bombard, shower, strafe. > t h r o w .
pedantic adj 1 academic, bookish,
donnish, dry, formal, humourless, pen n 1 coop, Amer corral, enclosure,
learned, old-fashioned, pompous, fold, hutch, pound. 2 ball-point, biro,
scholarly, schoolmasterly, stiff, felt-tip, fountain pen, old use quill.
stilted, inf stuffy. 2 inf by the book, penalize vb discipline, fine, impose
doctrinaire, exact, fastidious, fussy, a penalty on, punish.
inflexible, inf nit-picking, precise,
punctilious, strict, unimaginative. penalty n fine, forfeit, price. > pu n -
is h m e n t . pay the penalty > a t o n e .
Opp INFORMAL, LAX.
peddle vb inf flog, hawk, market, inf penance n amends, atonement, con-
push, sell, traffic in, vend. trition, penitence, punishment, re-
paration. do penance > a t o n e .
pedestrian adj 1 pedestrianized,
traffic-free. 2 banal, boring, dreaiy, pendent adj dangling, hanging,
dull, commonplace, flat-footed, life- loose, pendulous, suspended, sway-
less, mundane, prosaic, run-of-the- ing, swinging, trailing.
mill, tedious, unimaginative, pending adj about to happen, forth-
uninteresting. > o r d in a r y . • n inf coming, inf hanging fire, imminent,
foot-slogger, foot-traveller, stroller, impending, inf in the offing, unde-
walker. cided, waiting.
pedigree adj pure-bred, thorough- penetrate vb 1 bore through, break
bred. • n ancestry, blood, descent, through, drill into, enter, get into,
extraction, family, family history, get through, infiltrate, lance, make a
genealogy, line, lineage, parentage, hole, perforate, pierce, probe, punc-
roots, stock, strain. ture, stab, stick in. 2 damp penetrates.
pedlar n old use chapman, inf cheap- filter through, impregnate, percolate
jack, old use colporteur, door-to-door through, permeate, pervade, seep
salesman, hawker, infpusher, seller, into, suffuse.
street-trader, trafficker, vendor. penitent adj apologetic, conscience-
peel n coating, rind, skin. • vb stricken, contrite, regretful, remorse-
denude, flay, hull, pare, skin, strip. ful, repentant, rueful, shamefaced,
> UNDRESS. Sony. Opp UNREPENTANT.
peep vb 1 glance, have a look, peek, pennon n banner, flag, pennant,
squint. > l o o k . 2 > s h o w . standard, streamer.
peer n aristocrat, grandee, noble, pension n annuity, benefit, old age
nobleman, noblewoman, patrician, pension, superannuation.
pensive 294

pensive adj brooding, cogitating, perch n rest, resting-place, roost. • vb

contemplative, day-dreaming, inf far- balance, rest, roost, settle, sit.
away, inf in a brown study, lost in percussion n □ bell, castanets, celesta,
thought, meditative, reflective, rumin- chime bar, cymbal, glockenspiel, gong,
ative, thoughtful. .kettledrum, maracas, rattle, tambourine,
penury n beggary, destitution, timpani, triangle, tubular bells, vibra-
impoverishment, indigence, lack, phone, whip, wood block, xylophone.
need, poverty, scarcity, want. > DRUM.
people n 1 folk, human beings, perdition n damnation, doom,
humanity, humans, individuals, downfall, hell, hellfire, ruin, ruina-
ladies and gentlemen, mankind, men tion.
and women, mortals, persons. 2 citi-
perfect adj 1 absolute, complete,
zenry, citizens, community, elect-
completed, consummate, excellent,
orate, inf grass roots, Gr hoi polloi,
exemplary, faultless, finished, flaw-
nation, inf the plebs, populace, popu-
less, ideal, immaculate, incompar-
lation, the public, society, subjects.
able, matchless, mint, superlative,
3 your own people, clan, family, kins-
men. kith and kin, nation, race, rela- unbeatable, undamaged, unexcep-
tionable, unqualified, whole.
tions, relatives, tribe. • vb colonize,
fill, inhabit, occupy, overrun, popu- 2 blameless, irreproachable, pure,
sinless, spotless, unimpeachable.
late, settle.
3 accurate, authentic, correct, exact,
perceive vb 1 become aware of, faithful, immaculate, impeccable,
catch sight of, descry, detect, discern, precise, tailor-made, true. Opp impe r -
discover, distinguish, espy, glimpse, f e c t . • vb bring to fruition, bring to
hear, identify, make out, note, perfection, carry through, complete,
notice, observe, recognize, see, spot. consummate, effect, execute, finish,
2 appreciate, apprehend, compre- fulfil, make perfect, realize, inf see
hend, deduce, feel, inf figure out, through.
gather, grasp, infer, know, realize,
sense, understand. perfection n 1 beauty, complete-
ness, excellence, faultlessness, flaw-
perceptible adj appreciable, aud-
lessness, ideal, precision, purity,
ible, detectable, discernible, distinct,
wholeness. Opp impe r f e c t io n . 2 the per-
distinguishable, evident, identifiable, fection of a plan, accomplishment,
manifest, marked, notable, notice-
achievement, completion, consum-
able, observable, obvious, palpable,
mation, end, fruition, fulfilment,
perceivable, plain, recognizable,
realization.
unmistakable, visible. Opp impe r c e pt i -
bl e. perforate vb bore through, drill,
perception n appreciation, ap- penetrate, pierce, prick, punch, punc-
prehension, awareness, cognition, ture, riddle.
comprehension, consciousness, perform vb 1 accomplish, achieve,
discernment, insight, instinct, intu- bring about, carry on, carry out,
ition, knowledge, observation, per- commit, complete, discharge, dis-
spective, realization, recognition, patch, do, effect, execute, finish, ful-
sensation, sense, understanding, fil, inf pull off. 2 behave, function,
view. go, operate, run, work. 3 perform on
perceptive adj acute, alert, astute, stage, act, appear, dance, feature, fig-
attentive, aware, clever, discerning, ure, take part. 4 perform a play, song.
discriminating, observant, penetrat- enact, mount, play, present, produce,
ing, percipient, perspicacious, quick, put on, render, represent, serenade,
responsive, sensitive, sharp, sharp- sing, stage.
eyed, shrewd, sympathetic, under- performance n 1 accomplishment,
standing. > INTELLIGENT. achievement, carrying out, comple-
295 permit
tion, doing, execution, fulfilment. unimportant, unnecessary. Opp c e n -
2 act, behaviour, conduct, deception, tral.
exhibition, exploit, feat, play-acting, perish vb 1 be destroyed, be killed,
pretence. 3 stage performance, acting, die, expire, fall, lose your life, meet
debut, impersonation, interpreta- your death, pass away. 2 crumble
tion, play, playing, portrayal, pre- away, decay, decompose, disinteg-
sentation, production, rendition, rate, go bad, rot.
representation. □ concert, dress
rehearsal, first night, last night, matinee, perishable adj biodegradable,
premiere, preview, rehearsal, show, destructible, liable to perish, un-
sketch, turn. stable. Opp PERMANENT.
perjury n bearing false witness,
performer n actor, actress, artist,
lying, mendacity.
artiste, player, singer, star, inf super-
star, thespian, trouper. > e n t e r t a in e r . permanent adj abiding, ceaseless,
changeless, chronic, constant, con-
perfume n 1 aroma, bouquet, fra-
tinual, continuous, durable, endless,
grance, odour, scent. > s me l l . 2 after-
enduring, eternal, everlasting, fixed,
shave, eau de Cologne, scent, toilet immutable, incessant, incurable,
water. indestructible, indissoluble, inerad-
perfunctory adj apathetic, auto- icable, interminable, invariable,
matic, brief, cursory, dutiful, fleet- irreparable, irreversible, lasting, life-
ing, half-hearted, hurried, in- long, long-lasting, never-ending, non-
attentive, indifferent, mechanical, stop, ongoing, perennial, perpetual,
offhand, routine, superficial, uncar- persistent, stable, steady, unalter-
ing, unenthusiastic, uninterested, able, unceasing, unchanging, undy-
uninvolved, unthinking. Opp e n t h u - ing, unending. Opp t e mpo r a r y .
s ia s t ic . permeate vb diffuse, filter through,
perhaps adv conceivably, maybe, old flow through, impregnate, infiltrate,
use peradventure, old use perchance, penetrate, percolate, pervade, sat-
possibly. urate, soak through, spread through,
peril n danger, hazard, insecurity, permissible adj acceptable, admiss-
jeopardy, risk, susceptibility, threat, ible, allowable, allowed, excusable,
vulnerability. lawful, legal, legitimate, licit, per-
mitted, proper, right, sanctioned, tol-
perilous adj dangerous, hazardous,
erable, valid, venial (sin). Opp
insecure, risky, uncertain, unsafe,
UNACCEPTABLE.
vulnerable. Opp s a f e .
permission n agreement, approba-
perimeter n border, borderline,
tion, approval, acquiescence, assent,
boundary, bounds, circumference, authority, authorization, consent,
confines, edge, fringe, frontier, limit, dispensation, franchise, inf go-ahead,
margin, periphery, verge. inf green light, leave, licence, inf
period n 1 duration, interval, phase, rubber stamp, sanction, seal of ap-
season, session, span, spell, stage, proval, stamp of approval, support.
stint, stretch, term, while. 2 aeon, > PERMIT.
age, epoch, era. > t im e . permissive adj acquiescent, con-
periodic adj cyclical, intermittent, senting, easygoing, indulgent,
occasional, recurrent, repeated, spas- latitudinarian, lenient, liberal,
modic, sporadic. libertarian, tolerant.
peripheral adj 1 distant, on the permit n authority, authorization,
perimeter, outer, outermost, outly- certification, charter, licence, order,
ing. 2 borderline, incidental, inessen- pass, passport, ticket, visa, warrant.
tial, irrelevant, marginal, minor, • vb admit, agree to, allow, approve
nonessential, secondary, tangential, of, authorize, consent to, endorse,
perpendicular 296

enfranchise, give an opportunity for, interminable, lasting, long-lasting,

give permission for, give your bless- never-ending, obstinate, permanent,
ing to, legalize, license, make poss- perpetual, persisting, recurrent,
ible, sanction, old use suffer, support, recurring, remaining, repeated,
tolerate. unending, unrelenting, unrelieved,
perpendicular adj at right angles, 'unremitting. Opp b r ie f , in t e r mit t e n t .
erect, plumb, straight up and down, 2 assiduous, determined, dogged,
upright, vertical. hard-working, indefatigable, patient,
persevering, pertinacious, relentless,
perpetual adj abiding, ageless, resolute, steadfast, steady, stubborn,
ceaseless, chronic, constant, continu- tenacious, tireless, unflagging, untir-
al, continuous, endless, enduring, ing, unwavering, zealous. Opp l a z y .
eternal, everlasting, frequent,
immortal, immutable, incessant, person n adolescent, adult, baby,
incurable, indestructible, ineradic- being, inf body, character, child, inf
able, interminable, invariable, lasting, customer, figure, human, human
long-lasting, never-ending, non-stop, being, individual, infant, mortal, per-
ongoing, perennial, permanent, per- sonage, soul, inf type, woman. > ma n ,
sistent, protracted, recurrent, recur- PEOPLE, WOMAN.
ring,- repeated, old use sempiternal, persona n character, exterior,
timeless, unceasing, unchanging, facade, guise, identity, image, part,
undying, unending, unfailing, personality, role, self-image.
unremitting. Opp t e mpo r a r y .
personal adj 1 distinct, distinctive,
perpetuate vb continue, eternalize, exclusive, idiosyncratic, individual,
eternize, extend, immortalize, keep inimitable, particular, peculiar, pri-
going, maintain, make permanent, vate, special, unique, your own. Opp
preserve. g e n e r a l . 2 fl personal appearance.
perplex vb baffle, inf bamboozle, actual, in person, in the flesh, live,
befuddle, bewilder, confound, con- physical. 3 personal letters, confiden-
fuse, disconcert, distract, dumb- tial, friendly, individual, informal,
found, muddle, mystify, nonplus, intimate, private, secret. Opp pu b l ic .
puzzle, inf stump, inf throw, worry. 4 personal friends, bosom, close, dear,
perquisite n benefit, bonus, inf con- familiar, intimate, known. 5 personal
sideration, emolument, extra, fringe remarks, belittling, critical, derog-
benefit, gratuity, inf perk, tip. atory, disparaging, insulting, offens-
ive, pejorative, rude, slighting,
persecute vb abuse, afflict, annoy,
unfriendly. 6 personal knowledge.
badger, bother, bully, discriminate direct, empirical, experiential, first-
against, harass, hector, hound, ill- hand.
treat, intimidate, maltreat, martyr,
molest, oppress, pester, inf put the personality n 1 attractiveness, char-
screws on, suppress, terrorize, tor- acter, charisma, charm, disposition,
ment, torture, trouble, tyrannize, vic- identity, individuality, magnetism,
timize, worry. inf make-up, nature, persona, psy-
che, temperament. 2 inf big name,
persist vb be diligent, be steadfast,
celebrity, idol, luminary, name, pub-
carry on, continue, endure, go on,
inf hang on, hold out, inf keep at it, lic figure, star, superstar.
keep going, inf keep it up, keep on, personification n allegorical rep-
last, linger, persevere, inf plug away, resentation, embodiment, epitome,
remain, inf soldier on, stand firm, human likeness, incarnation, living
stay, inf stick at it. Opp c e a s e . image, manifestation.
persistent adj 1 ceaseless, chronic, personify vb allegorize, embody,
constant, continual, continuous, end- epitomize, exemplify, give human
less, eternal, everlasting, incessant, shape to, incarnate, manifest, per-
297 pester
sonalize, represent, stand for, sym- pervasive adj general, inescapable,
bolize, typify. insidious, omnipresent, penetrating,
personnel n employees, manpower, permeating, pervading, prevalent,
people, staff, workers, workforce. rife, ubiquitous, universal, wide-
spread.
perspective n angle, approach, atti-
perverse adj adamant, contradict-
tude, outlook, point of view, posi-
ory, contrary, disobedient, fractious,
tion, prospect, slant, standpoint,
headstrong, illogical, inappropriate,
view, viewpoint.
inflexible, intractable, intransigent,
persuade vb bring round, cajole, obdurate, obstinate, peevish, inf pig-
coax, convert, convince, entice, headed, rebellious, refractory, self-
exhort, importune, induce, influ- willed, stubborn, tiresome,
ence, inveigle, press, prevail upon, uncooperative, unhelpful, unreason-
prompt, talk into, tempt, urge, use able, wayward, wilful, wrong-headed.
persuasion, wheedle (into), win over. Opp REASONABLE.
Opp DISSUADE. perversion n 1 corruption, distor-
persuasion n 1 argument, bland- tion, falsification, misrepresentation,
ishment, brainwashing, cajolery, misuse, twisting. 2 aberration,
coaxing, conditioning, enticement, abnormality, depravity, deviance,
exhortation, inducement, persuad- deviation, immorality, impropriety,
ing, propaganda, reasoning. 2 affili- inf kinkiness, perversity, unnatural-
ation, belief, conviction, creed, ness, vice, wickedness.
denomination, faith, religion, sect. pervert n debauchee, degenerate,
persuasive adj cogent, compelling, deviant, perverted person, profligate.
conclusive, convincing, credible, • vb 1 bend, deflect, distort, divert,
effective, efficacious, eloquent, force- falsify, misrepresent, perjure, sub-
ful, influential, logical, plausible, vert, twist, undermine. 2 pervert a wit-
potent, reasonable, sound, strong, ness. bribe, corrupt, lead astray.
telling, unarguable, valid, watertight. perverted adj abnormal, amoral,
Opp UNCONVINCING. bad, corrupt, debauched, degenerate,
depraved, deviant, dissolute, eccen-
pertain vb appertain, apply, be relev-
tric, evil, immoral, improper, inf
ant, have bearing, have reference,
kinky, profligate, sick, twisted,
have relevance, refer, pertain to
unnatural, unprincipled, warped,
affect, concern.
wicked, wrong. t> o b s c e n e . Opp n a t -
pertinent adj apposite, appropriate, ur al .
apropos, apt, fitting, germane, relev- pessimism n cynicism, despair,
ant, suitable. Opp ir r e l e v a n t . despondency, fatalism, gloom, hope-
perturb vb agitate, alarm, bother, lessness, negativeness, resignation,
confuse, discomfit, discompose, dis- unhappiness. Opp o pt im is m .
concert, disquiet, distress, disturb, pessimistic adj bleak, cynical,
fluster, frighten, make anxious, defeatist, despairing, despondent,
ruffle, scare, shake, trouble, un- fatalistic, gloomy, hopeless, melan-
nerve, unsettle, upset, vex, worry. Opp choly, morbid, negative, resigned,
r ea ssu r e. unhappy. t> s a d . Opp o pt imis t ic .
peruse vb examine, inspect, look pest n 1 annoyance, bane, bother,
over, read, run your eye over, scan, curse, irritation, nuisance, inf pain
scrutinize, study. in the neck, inf thorn in your flesh,
pervade vb affect, diffuse, fill, filter
trial, vexation. 2 in/bug, in/creepy-
through, flow through, impregnate, crawly, insect, parasite, plur vermin,
penetrate, percolate, permeate, sat- pester vb annoy, badger, bait,
urate, spread through, suffuse. besiege, bother, inf get under some-
pestilence 298

one’s skin, harass, harry, inf hassle, philistine adj boorish, ignorant,
irritate, molest, nag, nettle, plague, lowbrow, materialistic, uncivilized,
provoke, torment, trouble, worry. uncultivated, uncultured, unenlight-
pestilence n blight, curse, epi- ened, unlettered, vulgar.
demic, pandemic, plague, scourge. philosopher n sage, student of philo-
> ILLNESS. sophy, thinker.
pet n inf apple of your eye, darling, philosophical adj 1 abstract, aca-
favourite, idol. • vb caress, cuddle, demic, analytical, erudite, esoteric,
fondle, kiss, nuzzle, pat, stroke. ideological, impractical, intellectual,
> TOUCH. learned, logical, metaphysical, ra-
petition n appeal, application, en- tional, reasoned, scholarly, theoreti-
treaty, list of signatures, plea, re- cal, thoughtful, wise. 2 calm,
quest, solicitation, suit, supplication. collected, composed, detached,
• vb appeal to, call upon, deliver a equable, imperturbable, judicious,
petition to, entreat, importune, sol- patient, reasonable, resigned, serene,
icit, sue, supplicate. > a s k . sober, stoical, unemotional, unruf-
petty adj 1 inconsequential, insigni- fled. Opp EMOTIONAL.
ficant, minor, niggling, small, trivial, philosophize vb analyse, moralize,
trifling. > u n impo r t a n t . Opp impo r t a n t . pontificate, preach, rationalize,
2 petty complaints, grudging, mean, reason, sermonize, theorize, think
nit-picking, small-minded, ungener- things out.
ous. Opp GENEROUS.
philosophy n 1 epistemology, ideo-
phase n development, period, sea- logy, logic, metaphysics, rationalism,
son, spell, stage, state, step. > t im e . thinking. 2 philosophy of life, attitude,
phase in > in t r o d u c e , phase out
convictions, outlook, set of beliefs,
> FINISH. tenets, values, viewpoint, wisdom.
phenomenal adj amazing, aston-
ishing, astounding, exceptional, phlegmatic adj apathetic, cold, cool,
extraordinary, inf fantastic, incred- frigid, impassive, imperturbable, in-
ible, marvellous, inf mind-boggling, different, lethargic, passive, placid,
miraculous, notable, outstanding, slow, sluggish, stoical, stolid, torpid,
prodigious, rare, remarkable, inf undemonstrative, unemotional, un-
sensational, singular, staggering, enthusiastic, unfeeling, uninvolved,
stunning, unbelievable, unorthodox, unresponsive. Opp e x c it a b l e .
unusual, inf wonderful. Opp o r d in a r y . phobia n anxiety, aversion, dislike,
phenomenon n 1 circumstance, dread, inf hang-up, hatred, horror,
event, experience, fact, happening, loathing, neurosis, obsession, repug-
incident, occasion, occurrence, sight. nance, revulsion. > f e a r . □ agora-
2 an unusual phenomenon, curiosity, phobia (open space), arachnophobia
marvel, miracle, phenomenal person, (spiders), claustrophobia (enclosed
phenomenal thing, prodigy, rarity, space), xenophobia (foreigners).
sensation, spectacle, wonder. phone vb call, dial, inf give a buzz,
philanthropic adj altruistic, benef- ring, telephone.
icent, benevolent, bountiful, caring, phoney adj affected, artificial,
charitable, generous, humane, assumed, bogus, cheating, contrived,
humanitarian, magnanimous, mun- counterfeit, deceitful, ersatz, facti-
ificent, public-spirited, ungrudging. tious, fake, faked, false, fictitious,
> KIND. Opp MISANTHROPIC. fraudulent, hypocritical, imitation,
philanthropist n altruist, benefac- insincere, mock, pretended, inf
tor, donor, giver, inf Good Samari- pseudo, inf put-on, inf put-up, sham,
tan, humanitarian, patron, provider, spurious, synthetic, trick, unreal. Opp
sponsor. REAL.
 299 pierce
photocopy vb copy, duplicate, pho- ing, fresco, plur graffiti, plur graphics,
tostat, print off, reproduce, inf run icon, identikit, illustration, landscape,
off. montage, mosaic, mural, oil-painting, old
photograph n enlargement, expos- master, painting, photofit, photograph,
ure, negative, inf photo, picture, pin-up, plate, portrait, print, reproduc-
plate, positive, print, shot, slide, inf tion, self-portrait, silhouette, sketch, slide,
snap, snapshot, transparency. • vb inf snap, snapshot, still life, transfer,
film, shoot, snap, take a photograph transparency, triptych, Fr trompe I’oeil,
of. video, vignette. 2 film, movie, moving
picture, video. > f il m . • vb 1 carica-
photographic adj 1 accurate, exact,
ture, delineate, depict, display,
faithful, graphic, lifelike, naturalistic,
doodle, draw, engrave, etch, evoke,
realistic, representational, true to film, illustrate, outline, paint, pho-
life. 2 photographic memory, pictorial, tograph, portray, print, represent,
retentive, visual. show, sketch, video. 2 picture the
phrase n clause, expression. > s a y in g . future, conceive, describe, dream up,
• vb > SAY. envisage, envision, fancy, imagine,
phraseology n diction, expression, see in your mind’s eye, think up,
idiom, language, parlance, phrasing, visualize.
style, turn of phrase, wording. picturesque adj 1 attractive, charm-
physical adj actual, bodily, carnal, ing, colourful, idyllic, lovely, pleasant,
concrete, corporal, corporeal, earth- pretty, quaint, scenic, inf story-book.
ly, fleshly, incarnate, material, mor- > BEAUTIFUL. Opp UNATTRACTIVE. 2 pic-
tal, palpable, physiological, real, turesque language, colourful, descrip-
solid, substantial, tangible. Opp in t a n - tive, expressive, graphic, imaginative,
g ib l e , s pir it u a l . poetic, vivid. Opp pr o s a ic .
pie n flan, pasty, patty, quiche, tart,
physician n consultant, doctor, gen-
eral practitioner, inf GP, inf medic, tartlet, turnover, vol-au-vent.
medical practitioner, specialist. piece n 1 bar, bit, bite, block, chip,
chunk, crumb, division, inf dollop,
physiological adj anatomical, bod-
fraction, fragment, grain, helping,
ily, physical. Opp ps y c h o l o g ic a l .
hunk, length, lump, morsel, part,
physique n body, build, figure, form, particle, portion, quantity, remnant,
frame, muscles, physical condition, sample, scrap, section, segment,
shape. shard, share, shred, slab, slice, sliver;
pick n 1 choice, election, option, pre- snippet, speck, stick, tablet, inf tit-
ference, selection. 2 best, cream, bit, wedge. 2 component, con-
elite, favourite, flower, pride. • vb stituent, element, spare part, unit.
1 cast (actor), choose, decide on, elect, 3 piece of music, work, article, composi-
fix on, make a choice of, name, tion, example, instance, item, num-
nominate, opt for, prefer, select, set- ber, passage, specimen, work. >
tle on, single out, vote for. 2 pick flow- MUSIC, w r it in g , piece together >
ers. collect, cull, cut, gather, harvest, ASSEMBLE.
pluck, pull off, take, pick on > b u l l y . pied adj dappled, flecked, mottled,
pick up > GET, IMPROVE. particoloured, patchy, piebald, spot-
pictorial adj diagrammatic, graphic, ted, variegated.
illustrated, realistic, representa- pier n 1 breakwater, jetty, landing-
tional, vivid. stage, quay, wharf. > d o c k . 2 but-
picture n 1 delineation, depiction, tress, column, pile, pillar, post,
image, likeness, outline, portrayal, support, upright.
profile, representation. □ abstract, pierce vb bayonet, bore through, cut,
cameo, caricature, cartoon, collage, des- drill, enter, go through, impale, jab,
ign, doodle, drawing, engraving, etch- lance, make a hole in, penetrate, per-
piety 300

forate, poke through, prick, punch, pin n old use bodkin, bolt, brooch, dip,
puncture, riddle, skewer, spear, spike, dowel, drawing-pin, hatpin, nail, peg,
spit, stab, stick into, thrust into, rivet, safety-pin, spike, staple, thole,
transfix, tunnel through, wound, tiepin. • vb clip, nail, pierce, staple,
piercing > SHARP. tack, transfix. > f a s t e n .
piety n dedication, devotedness, devo- pinch vb 1 crush, grip, hurt, nip,
tion, devoutness, faith, godliness, press, squeeze, tweak. 2 > s t e a l .
holiness, piousness, religion, derog pine vb mope, mourn, sicken, waste
religiosity, saintliness, sanctity. Opp away, pine for > w a n t .
IMPIETY.
pinnacle n 1 acme, apex, cap, cli-
pig n boar, hog, inf piggy, piglet, runt, max, consummation, crest, crown,
sow, swine. crowning point, height, highest
pile n 1 abundance, accumulation, point, peak, summit, top, zenith.
agglomeration, collection, concen- 2 pinnacle on a roof, spire, steeple, tur-
tration, conglomeration, deposit, ret.
heap, hoard, inf load, mass, mound, pioneer n 1 colonist, discoverer,
inf mountain, plethora, quantity, explorer, frontiersman, frontiers-
stack,' stockpile, supply, inf tons. woman, pathfinder, settler, trail-
2 column, pier, post, support, blazer. 2 innovator, inventor, orig-
upright. • vb accumulate, amass, inator, pace-maker, trend-setter. • vb
assemble, bring together, build up, begin, inf bring out, create, develop,
collect, concentrate, deposit, gather, discover, establish, experiment with,
heap, hoard, load, mass, stack up, found, inaugurate, initiate, institute,
stockpile, store. introduce, invent, launch, open up,
pilfer vb inf filch, inf pinch, rob, originate, set up, start.
shoplift. > STEAL. pious adj 1 dedicated, devoted,
pilgrim n crusader, old use palmer. devout, faithful, god-fearing, godly,
> TRAVELLER. good, holy, moral, religious, rever-
ent, reverential, saintly, sincere, spir-
pill n bolus, capsule, lozenge, pastille,
itual, virtuous. Opp im pio u s . 2 [derog]
pellet, pilule, tablet. > m e d ic in e .
inf goody-goody, inf holier-than-
pillage n buccaneering, depredation, thou, hypocritical, insincere, mealy-
despoliation, devastation, looting, mouthed, Pharisaical, pietistic,
marauding, piracy, plunder, plun- sanctimonious, self-righteous, self-
dering, ransacking, rape, rapine, satisfied, inf smarmy, unctuous. Opp
robbeiy, robbing, sacking, stealing, SINCERE.
stripping. • vb despoil, devastate,
pip n 1 pit, seed, stone. 2 mark, spot,
loot, maraud, plunder, raid, ransack,
star. 3 bleep, blip, sound, stroke.
ravage, raze, rob, sack, steal, strip,
vandalize. pipe n conduit, channel, duct, hose,
hydrant, line, main, pipeline, piping,
pillar n baluster, caiyatid, column,
tube. • vb 1 carry along a pipe, carry
pier, pilaster, pile, post, prop, shaft,
along a wire, channel, convey,
stanchion, support, upright.
deliver, supply, transmit. 2 pipe a
pilot n 1 airman, old use aviator, cap- tune, blow, play, sound, inf tootle,
tain, flier. 2 coxswain, helmsman, whistle, pipe up > s pe a k , piping >
navigator, steersman. • vb conduct, HOT, s h r il l .
convey, direct, drive, fly, guide, lead,
piquant adj 1 appetizing, pungent,
navigate, shepherd, steer.
salty, sharp, spicy, tangy, tart, tasty.
pimple n blackhead, boil, eruption, Opp b l a n d . 2 a piquant notion, arrest-
pustule, spot, swelling, si zit. ing, exciting, interesting, provocat-
pimples acne, rash. ive, stimulating. Opp b a n a l .
 301 plague
pirate n buccaneer, old use corsair, sympathy, tenderness, understand-
marauder, privateer, sea rover. > ing, warmth. Opp c r u e l t y . • vb inf
THIEF. • Vb > PLAGIARIZE. bleed for, commiserate with, inf feel
pit n 1 abyss, chasm, crater, depres- for, feel soriy for, show pity for, sym-
sion, ditch, excavation, hole, hollow, pathize with, weep for.
pothole, rut, trench, well. 2 coal- pivot n axis, axle, centre, fulcrum,
mine, colliery, mine, mineshaft, gudgeon, hinge, hub, pin, point of
quarry, shaft, working. balance, spindle, swivel. • vb hinge,
pitch n 1 bitumen, tar. 2 pitch of a revolve, rotate, spin, swivel, turn,
roof, angle, gradient, incline, slope, twirl, whirl.
steepness, tilt. 3 musical pitch, fre- placard n advert, advertisement, bill,
quency, tuning. 4 soccer pitch, arena, notice, poster, sign.
ground, playing-field, stadium. • vb
placate vb appease, calm, conciliate,
1 erect, put up, raise, set up. 2 pitch
humour, mollify, pacify, soothe.
stones, bowl, inf bung, cast, inf chuck,
fire, fling, heave, hurl, launch, lob, place n 1 area, country, district,
sling, throw, toss. 3 pitch into the locale, locality, location, locus, neigh-
water, dive, drop, fall headlong, bourhood, part, point, position, quar-
plummet, plunge, inf take a nose- ter, region, scene, setting, site,
dive, topple, pitch about > t o s s . situation, inf spot, town, venue, vi-
pitch in > c o o pe r a t e , pitch into > cinity, inf whereabouts. 2 a place in
ATTACK. society, condition, degree, estate, func-
tion, grade, job, mission, niche,
piteous adj affecting, distressing,
office, position, rank, role, standing,
heartbreaking, heart-rending, lam-
station, status. 3 a place to live. >
entable, miserable, moving, pathetic,
h o u s e . 4 a place to sit. > s e a t . • vb
pitiable, pitiful, plaintive, poignant,
1 deposit, dispose, inf dump, lay,
touching, woeful, wretched. > s a d .
leave, locate, pinpoint, plant, posi-
pitfail n catch, danger, difficulty, tion, put down, rest, set down, set
hazard, peril, snag, trap. out, settle, situate, stand, station, inf
pitiful adj 1 abject, contemptible, stick. 2 arrange, categorize, class,
deplorable, hopeless, inadequate, classify, grade, order, position, put
incompetent, insignificant, laugh- in order, rank, sort. 3 can’t place it.
able, mean, inf miserable, inf identify, put a name to, put into con-
pathetic, pitiable, ridiculous, sorry, text, recognize, remember.
trifling, unimportant, useless, worth- placid adj 1 collected, composed,
less. Opp ADMIRABLE. 2 > PITEOUS. cool, equable, even-tempered, im-
pitiless adj bloodthirsty, brutal, perturbable, level-headed, mild,
callous, cruel, ferocious, hard, heart- phlegmatic, restful, sensible, stable,
less,.inexorable, inhuman, merciless, steady, unexcitable. 2 calm, motion-
relentless, ruthless, sadistic, un- less, peaceful, quiet, tranquil, unruf-
feeling, unrelenting, unrelieved, fled, untroubled. Opp e x c it a b l e ,
unremitting, unsympathetic. Opp STORMY.
MERCIFUL. plagiarize vb appropriate, borrow,
pitted adj dented, eaten away, copy, inf crib, imitate, infringe copy-
eroded, inf holey, marked, pock- right, inf lift, pirate, purloin, repro-
marked, rough, scarred, uneven. Opp duce. > STEAL.
SMOOTH. plague n 1 affliction, bane, blight,
pity n charity, clemency, commisera- calamity, contagion, epidemic, infec-
tion, compassion, condolence, feel- tion, outbreak, pandemic, pestilence.
ing, forbearance, forgiveness, grace, > il l n e s s . 2 infestation, invasion, nuis-
humanity, kindness, leniency, love, ance, scourge, swarm, visitation.
mercy, regret, old use ruth, softness, • vb afflict, annoy, be a nuisance to,
plain 302

bother, distress, disturb, harass, planning n arrangement, design,

harry, hound, irritate, molest, inf drafting, forethought, organization,
nag, persecute, pester, torment, tor- preparation, setting up, thinking out.
ture, trouble, vex, worry. plant n greeneiy, growth, under-
plain adj 1 apparent, audible, cer- growth, vegetation. □ annual, bulb,
tain, clear, comprehensible, definite, cactus, cereal, climber, fem, Jlower, fungus,
distinct, evident, intelligible, legible, grass, herb, lichen, moss, perennial,
lucid, manifest, obvious, patent, shrub, tree, vegetable, vine, water-plant,
simple, transparent, unambiguous, weed. >' f l o w e r , t r e e , v e g e t a b l e . 2 a
understandable, unmistakable, vis- manufacturingplant, factory, foundry,
ible, well-defined. Opp o b s c u r e . 2 plain mill, shop, works, workshop. 3 indus-
speech, basic, blunt, candid, direct, trial plant, apparatus, equipment,
downright, explicit, forthright, frank, machinery, machines. • vb 1 bed out,
honest, informative, outspoken, set out, sow, transplant. 2 locate,
plain-spoken, prosaic, sincere, place, position, put, situate, station.
straightforward, unequivocal, unvar- plaster n 1 mortar, stucco. 2 dress-
nished. 3 plain living, austere, drab, ing, sticking-plaster. • vb apply,
eveiyday, frugal, homely, modest, bedaub, coat, cover, daub, smear,
ordinaiy, simple, Spartan, stark, spread.
unaddrned, unattractive, undecor-
ated,' unexciting, unprepossessing, plastic adj ductile, flexible, mal-
unpretentious, unremarkable, work- leable, pliable, shapable, soft, sup-
aday.. Opp s o ph is t ic a t e d . • n grassland, ple, workable. □ bakelite, celluloid,
pampas, pasture, prairie, savannah, polystyrene, polythene, polyurethane,
steppe, tundra, veld. polyvinyl, PVC, vinyl.
plaintive adj doleful, melancholy, plate n 1 old use charger, dinner-
mournful, plangent, sorrowful, wist- plate, dish, platter, salver, side-plate,
ful. > SAD. soup-plate, old use trencher. 2 lamina,
plan n 1 infbird’s-eye view, blueprint,
lamination, layer, leaf, pane, panel,
chart, design, diagram, drawing, lay- sheet, slab, stratum. 3 plates in a book.
out, map, representation, sketch- illustration, inf photo, photograph,
map. 2 apian of action, aim, course of picture, print. 4 a dental plate, den-
action, design, formula, idea, inten- tures, false teeth. • vb anodize, coat,
tion, method, plot, policy, procedure, cover, electroplate, galvanize (with
programme, project, proposal, prop- zinc), gild (with gold).
osition, inf scenario, scheme, strat- platform n 1 dais, podium, rostrum,
egy, system. • vb 1 arrange, concoct, stage, stand. 2 political platform. > po l -
contrive, design, devise, draw up a ic y .
plan, formulate, invent, map out, inf platitude n banality, cliche, com-
mastermind, organize, outline, plot, monplace, truism.
prepare, scheme, think out, work
plausible adj 1 acceptable, believ-
out. 2 I plan to go away, aim, con-
spire, contemplate, envisage, expect, able, conceivable, credible, imagin-
intend, mean, propose, think of. able, likely, logical, persuasive,
planned > DELIBERATE.
possible, probable, rational, reason-
able, sensible, tenable, thinkable.
plane adj even, flat, flush, level, Opp impl a u s ib l e . 2 deceptive, glib,
smooth, uniform. • n 1 flat surface, meretricious, misleading, specious,
level, surface. 2 > a ir c r a f t . smooth, sophistical.
planet n globe, orb, satellite, sphere, play n 1 amusement, diversion,
world. □ Earth, Jupiter, Mars, Mercury, entertainment, frivolity, fun, inf fun
Neptune, Pluto, Saturn, Uranus, Venus. and games, inf horseplay, joking,
plank n beam, board, planking, tim- make-believe, merrymaking, playing,
ber. pretending, recreation, reveliy, inf
 303
plentiful
skylarking, sport. 2 play in moving attractive, balmy, beautiful, charm-
parts, flexibility, freedom, freedom of ing, cheerful, congenial, decent,
movement, in/give, latitude, leeway, delicious, delightful, enjoyable, en-
looseness, movement, tolerance. 3 > tertaining, excellent, fine, friendly,
d r a ma . • vb 1 amuse yourself, caper, genial, gentle, good, gratifying, inf
cavort, disport yourself, enjoy your- heavenly, hospitable, kind, likeable,
self, fool about, frisk, frolic, gambol, lovely, mellow, mild, nice, palat-
inf have a good time, have fun, inf able, peaceful, pleasing, pleasurable,
mess about, romp, sport. 2 play a pretty, reassuring, relaxed, satisfy-
game, join in, participate, take part. ing, soothing, sympathetic, warm,
3 play an opponent, challenge, com- welcome, welcoming. Opp a n n o y in g ,
pete against, oppose, rival, take on, u n pl e a s a n t .
vie with. 4 play a role, act, depict,
please vb 1 amuse, cheer up, con-
impersonate, perform, portray, pre-
tent, delight, divert, entertain, give
tend to be, represent, take the part
pleasure to, gladden, gratify,
of. 5 play an instrument, make music
humour, make happy, satisfy, suit.
on, perform on, strum. 6 play the
2 Do what you please. > w a n t , pleas-
radio, have on, listen to, operate, put
ing > PLEASANT.
on, switch on. play about > mis b e -
h a v e . play along, play ball > COOPER- pleased adj inf chuffed, derog com-
ATE. play down > m in im iz e , play for placent, contented, delighted, elated,
time > d e l a y , play it by ear > impr o - euphoric, glad, grateful, gratified, si
v is e . play up > mis b e h a v e , play up to over the moon, satisfied, thankful,
> FLATTER. thrilled. > h a ppy . Opp a n n o y e d .
player n 1 athlete, competitor, con- pleasure n 1 bliss, comfort, con-
testant, participant, sportsman, sports- tentment, delight, ecstasy, enjoy-
woman. 2 actor, actress, artiste, ment, euphoria, fulfilment, gladness,
entertainer, instrumentalist, musi- gratification, happiness, joy, rapture,
cian, performer, soloist, Thespian, satisfaction, solace. 2 amusement,
trouper. > e n t e r t a in e r , m u s ic ia n . diversion, entertainment, fun, lux-
playful adj active, cheerful, coltish, ury, recreation, self-indulgence.
facetious, flirtatious, frisky, frolic- pleat n crease, flute, fold, gather,
some, fun-loving, good-natured, tuck.
high-spirited, humorous, impish,
plebiscite n ballot, poll, referen-
jesting, inf jokey, joking, kittenish,
light-hearted, lively, mischievous, dum, vote.
puckish, roguish, skittish, spirited, pledge n 1 assurance, covenant,
sportive, sprightly, teasing, inf guarantee, oath, pact, promise,
tongue-in-cheek, vivacious, waggish. undertaking, vow, warranty, word.
Opp SERIOUS. 2 a pledge left at a pawnbroker’s, bail,
plea n 1 appeal, entreaty, invocation, bond, collateral, deposit, pawn, secur-
petition, prayer, request, solicita- ity, surety. • vb agree, commit your-
tion, suit, supplication. 2 argument, self, contract, give your word,
excuse, explanation, justification, guarantee, promise, swear, under-
pretext, reason. take, vouch, vouchsafe, vow.
plead vb 1 appeal, ask, beg, beseech, plenary adj full, general, open.
ciy out, demand, entreat, implore, plentiful adj abounding, abund-
importune, petition, request, seek, ant, ample, bounteous, bountiful,
solicit, supplicate. 2 allege, argue, bristling, bumper (crop), copious, gen-
assert, aver, declare, maintain, rea- erous, inexhaustible, lavish, liberal,
son, swear. overflowing, plenteous, profuse, pro-
pleasant adj acceptable, affable, lific. Opp s c a r c e , be plentiful >
agreeable, amiable, approachable, a bo un d.
plenty 304

plenty n abundance, adequacy, afflu- plumb adv 1 accurately, inf dead,

ence, cornucopia, excess, fertility, exactly, precisely, inf slap. 2 perpen-
flood, fruitfulness, glut, inf heaps, inf dicularly, vertically. • vb fathom,
lashings, inf loads, a lot, inf lots, inf measure, penetrate, probe, sound.
masses, more than enough, much, plumbing n heating system, pipes,
inf oceans, inf oodles, inf piles, water-supply.
plentitude, plentifulness, plethora, plume n feather, plur plumage, quill,
prodigality, profusion, prosperity,
quantities, inf stacks, sufficiency, plump adj ample, buxom, chubby,
superabundance, surfeit, surplus, inf dumpy, overweight, podgy, portly,
tons, wealth. Opp s c a r c it y . pudgy, inf roly-poly, rotund, round,
squat, stout, tubby, inf well-
pliable adj 1 bendable, inf bendy,
upholstered. > f a t . Opp t h in , plump
ductile, flexible, plastic, pliant,
for > CHOOSE.
springy, supple. 2 a pliable character.
adaptable, compliant, docile, easily plunder n booty, contraband, loot,
influenced, easily led, easily per- pickings, pillage, prize, spoils, swag,
suaded, impressionable, manageable, takings. • vb capture, despoil, devast-
persuadable, receptive, responsive, ate, lay waste, loot, maraud, pillage,
susceptible, suggestible, tractable, raid, ransack, ravage, rifle, rob, sack,
yielding. seize, spoil, steal from, strip, vandal-
ize.
plod yb 1 slog, tramp, trudge. > w a l k .
2 drudge, grind on, labour, inf peg plunge vb 1 descend, dip, dive, drop,
away,'persevere, inf plug away, toil. engulf, fall, fall headlong, hurtle,
> WORK. immerse, jump, leap, lower, nose-
dive, pitch, plummet, sink, sub-
plot n 1 acreage, allotment, area,
merge, swoop, tumble. 2 force, push,
estate, garden, lot, parcel, patch, stick, thrust.
smallholding, tract. 2 a plot of a novel.
chain of events, narrative, organiza- poach vb 1 hunt, steal. 2 > c o o k .
tion, outline, scenario, story, story- pocket n bag, container, pouch,
line, thread. 3 a subversive plot, cabal, receptacle. • vb > t a k e .
conspiracy, intrigue, machination, pod n case, hull, shell.
plan, scheme. • vb 1 chart, compute,
poem n inf ditty, inf jingle, piece of
draw, map out, mark, outline, plan,
project. 2 plot to rob a bank, collude, poetry, rhyme, verse. □ ballad, ballade,
conspire, have designs, intrigue, doggerel, eclogue, elegy, epic, epithala-
machinate, scheme. 3 plot a crime. mium, haiku, idyll, lay, limerick, lyric,
arrange, inf brew, conceive, concoct, nursery-rhyme, pastoral, ode, sonnet, vers
inf cook up, design, devise, dream libre. > v e r s e .
up, hatch. poet n bard, lyricist, minstrel, poet-
pluck n > c o u r a g e , vb 1 collect,
aster, rhymer, rhymester, sonneteer,
versifier. > w r it e r .
gather, harvest, pick, pull off, remove.
2 grab, jerk, pull, seize, snatch, tear poetic adj emotive, derog flowery,
away, tweak, yank. 3 pluck a chicken. imaginative, lyrical, metrical, mu-
denude, remove feathers from, strip. sical, poetical. Opp pr o s a ic .
4 pluck a violin, play pizzicato, strum, poignant adj affecting, distressing,
twang. heartbreaking, heartfelt, heart-
plug n 1 bung, cork, stopper. 2 > rending, moving, painful, pathetic,
ADVERTISEMENT. • vb 1 block Up, inf piquant, piteous, pitiful, stirring, ten-
' bung up, close, cork, fill, jam, seal, der, touching, upsetting. > s a d .
stop up, stuff up. 2 advertise, com- point n 1 apex, peak, prong, sharp
mend, mention frequently, promote, end, spike, spur, tine, tip. 2 a point in
publicize, puff, recommend, plug space, location, place, position, site,
away > w o r k . situation, spot. 3 a point in time.
 305
polish
instant, juncture, moment, second, mortal, noxious, poisoned, septic,
stage, time. 4 decimal point, dot, full toxic, venomous, virulent.
stop, mark, speck, spot. 5 the point of
poke vb butt, dig, elbow, goad, jab,
an argument, aim, burden, crux, drift,
jog, nudge, prod, stab, stick, thrust.
end, essence, gist, goal, heart, im-
> h it . poke about > s e a r c h , poke
port, intention, meaning, motive,
fun at > RIDICULE, poke out > PRO-
nub, object, objective, pith, purpose,
TRUDE.
quiddity, relevance, significance, sub-
ject, substance, theme, thrust, use, poky adj confined, cramped, incon-
usefulness. 6 points to raise, aspect, venient, restrictive, uncomfortable.
detail, idea, item, matter, particular, > SMALL. Opp SPACIOUS.
question, thought, topic. 7 good points polar adj antarctic, arctic, freezing,
in her character, attribute, character- glacial, icy, Siberian. > col d.
istic, facet, feature, peculiarity,
property, quality, trait. • vb 1 call polarize vb diverge, divide, move to
attention to, direct attention to, opposite positions, separate, split.
draw attention to, indicate, point pole n 1 bar, beanpole, column, flag-
out, show, signal. 2 aim, direct, pole, mast, post, rod, shaft, spar,
guide, lead, steer, pointed > s h a r p , to staff, stake, standard, stick, stilt,
the point > r e l e v a n t . upright. 2 opposite poles, end, ex-
pointer n arrow, hand (of clock), treme, limit, poles apart > d if f e r -
en t .
indicator.
police n si the Bill, constabulary, si
pointless adj aimless, fatuous, fruit-
the fuzz, inf the law, police force,
less, futile, inane, ineffective, sense-
policemen. • vb control, guard, keep
less, silly, unproductive, useless,
in order, keep the peace, monitor,
vain, worthless. > s t u pid .
oversee, patrol, protect, provide a
poise n aplomb, assurance, balance, police presence, supervise, watch
calmness, composure, coolness, over.
dignity, equanimity, equilibrium,
policeman, policewoman ns inf
equipoise, imperturbability, pres-
bobby, constable, si cop, si copper,
ence, sang-froid, self-confidence, self-
detective, Fr gendarme, inspector,
control, self-possession, serenity,
officer, PC, police constable, si rozzer,
steadiness. • vb balance, be poised,
woman police constable, WPC.
hover, keep in balance, support, sus-
pend. policy n 1 approach, code of con-
duct, custom, guidelines, inf line,
poised adj 1 balanced, hovering, in
method, practice, principles, proced-
equilibrium, standing, steady, tee- ure, protocol, regulations, rules,
tering, wavering. 2 poised to begin. stance, strategy, tactics. 2 intentions,
keyed up, prepared, ready, set, stand- manifesto, plan of action, platform,
ing by, waiting. 3 a poised performer. programme, proposals.
assured, calm, composed, cool, cool-
headed, dignified, self-confident, polish n 1 brightness, brilliance,
self-possessed, serene, suave, inf un- finish, glaze, gleam, gloss, lustre,
flappable, unruffled, urbane. sheen, shine, smoothness, sparkle.
2 beeswax, French polish, oil, shellac,
poison n bane, toxin, venom. • vb varnish, wax. 3 His manners show pol-
1adulterate, contaminate, infect, ish. in/class, elegance, finesse, grace,
pollute, taint. > k il l . 2 poison the mind. refinement, sophistication, style,
corrupt, defile, deprave, envenom, suavity, urbanity. • vb brighten,
pervert, prejudice, subvert, warp, brush up, buff up, burnish, French-
poisoned > d ir t y , po is o n o u s . polish, gloss, rub down, rub up,
poisonous adj deadly, fatal, infec- shine, smooth, wax. polish off > f in -
tious, lethal, mephitic, miasmic, is h . polish up > IMPROVE.
polished 306
polished adj 1 bright, burnished, ornate, ostentatious, overbearing,
glassy, gleaming, glossy, lustrous, pedantic, pontifical, posh, preten-
shining, shiny. 2 polished manners, civ- tious, self-important, sententious,
ilized, inf classy, cultivated, cultured, showy, smug, snobbish, inf snooty,
debonair, elegant, expert, faultless, inf stuck-up, inf stuffy, supercilious,
fine, finished, flawless, genteel, gra- turgid, vain, vainglorious. > pr o u d .
cious, impeccable, perfect, perfected, Opp MODEST.
polite, inf posh, refined, soigne(e),
ponderous adj 1 awkward, bulky,
sophisticated, suave, urbane. Opp
burdensome, cumbersome, heavy,
ROUGH.
hefty, huge, massive, unwieldy,
polite adj agreeable, attentive, chival- weighty. Opp l ig h t . 2 a ponderous
rous, civil, considerate, correct, cour- style, dreary, dull, elephantine,
teous, courtly, cultivated, deferential, heavy-handed, humourless, inflated,
diplomatic, discreet, euphemistic, laboured, lifeless, long-winded, over-
formal, gallant, genteel, gentle- done, pedestrian, plodding, prolix,
manly, gracious, ladylike, obliging, slow, stilted, stodgy, tedious, tire-
polished, proper, respectful, tactful, some, verbose, inf windy. Opp l iv e l y .
thoughtful, well-bred, well-mannered,
well-spoken. Opp r u d e . pool n lagoon, lake, mere, oasis,
political adj 1 administrative, civil,
paddling-pool, pond, puddle,
swimming-pool, tarn. • vb > c o mb in e .
diplomatic, governmental, legislat-
ive, parliamentary, state. 2 activist, poor adj 1 badly off, bankrupt, beg-
factional, militant, partisan, party- garly, inf broke, deprived, destitute,
political. a anarchist, capitalist, com- disadvantaged, inf down-and-out, inf
munist, conservative, democrat, fascist, hard up, homeless, impecunious,
Labour, leftist, left-wing, liberal, Marxist, impoverished, in debt, indigent,
moderate, monarchist, nationalist, Nazi, insolvent, necessitous, needy, inf on
parliamentarian, radical, republican, your uppers, penniless, penurious,
revolutionary, rightist, right-wing, social- poverty-stricken, si skint, straitened,
ist, Tory, old use Whig. underpaid, underprivileged. 2 poor
politics n diplomacy, government, soil, barren, exhausted, infertile, ster-
political affairs, political science, ile, unfruitful, unproductive. 3 a poor
public affairs, statecraft, statesman- salary, inadequate, insufficient, low,
ship. □ anarchy, capitalism, commun- meagre, mean, scanty, small, sparse,
ism, democracy, dictatorship, martial unprofitable, unrewarding. 4 poor in
law, monarchy, oligarchy, republic. health, inf below par, poorly. > il l .
5 poor quality, amateurish, bad,
poll n 1 ballot, election, vote. 2 can-
cheap, defective, deficient, disap-
vass, census, plebiscite, referendum,
pointing, faulty, imperfect, inferior,
survey. • vb ballot, canvass, question,
low-grade, mediocre, paltry, second-
sample, survey.
rate, shoddy, substandard, unac-
pollute vb adulterate, befoul, blight, ceptable, unsatisfactory, useless,
contaminate, corrupt, defile, dirty, worthless. 6 poor child! forlorn, hap-
foul, infect, poison, soil, taint. less, ill-fated, luckless, miserable,
pomp n brilliance, ceremonial, pathetic, pitiable, sad, unfortunate,
ceremony, display, formality, glory, unhappy, unlucky, wretched. Opp
grandeur, magnificence, ostentation, g o o d , l a r g e , l u c k y , r ic h . • plur n beg-
pageantry, ritual, show, solemnity, gars, the destitute, down-and-outs,
spectacle, splendour. the homeless, paupers, tramps, the
underprivileged, vagrants, wretches.
pompous adj affected, arrogant,
bombastic, conceited, grandiloquent, populace n commonalty, derog Gk
grandiose, haughty, inf highfalutin, hoi polloi, masses, people, public,
imperious, long-winded, magisterial, derog rabble, derog riff-raff.
 307 position
popular adj 1 accepted, acclaimed, centage, piece, quantity, quota,
inf all the rage, approved, celebrated, ration, scrap, section, segment, serv-
famous, fashionable, favoured, fav- ing, share, slice, sliver, subdivision,
ourite, inf in, in demand, liked, lion- wedge, portion out > s h a r e .
ized, loved, renowned, sought-after,
portrait n depiction, image, likeness,
inf trendy, well-known, well-liked, picture, portrayal, profile, represen-
well-received. Opp u n po pu l a r . 2 pop- tation, self-portrait. t> pic t u r e .
ular opinion, average, common,
conventional, current, democratic, portray vb 1 delineate, depict, de-
general, of the people, ordinary, pre- scribe, evoke, illustrate, paint, pic-
dominant, prevailing, representative, ture, represent, show. 2 > impe r s o n -
standard, universal. a t e.

popularize vb 1 make popular, pro- pose n 1 attitude, position, posture,

mote, spread. 2 popularize classics. stance. 2 act, affectation, attitudin-
make easy, simplify, derog tart up. izing, facade, masquerade, pretence.
• vb 1 keep still, model, sit, strike a
populate vb colonize, dwell in, fill,
inhabit, live in, occupy, overrun, pose. 2 attitudinize, inf be a poser, be
people, reside in, settle. a poseur, posture, inf put on airs,
show off. 3 pose a question, advance,
population n citizenry, citizens, ask, broach, posit, postulate, present,
community, denizens, folk, inhab- put forward, submit, suggest, pose
itants, natives, occupants, people, as t> IMPERSONATE.
populace, public, residents.
poser n 1 dilemma, enigma, prob-
populous adj crowded, full, heavily lem, puzzle, question, riddle. 2 >
populated, jammed, overcrowded, POSEUR.
overpopulated, packed, swarming,
teeming. poseur n attitudinizer, exhibition-
ist, fraud, impostor, masquerader,
porch n doorway, entrance, lobby, inf phoney, inf poser, pretender, inf
portico. show-off.
pore vb pore over examine, go over, posh adj in/classy, elegant, fashion-
peruse, read, scrutinize, study. able, formal, grand, lavish, luxuri-
pornographic adj arousing, in/blue, ous, ostentatious, rich, showy, smart,
erotic, explicit, exploitative, sexual, snobbish, stylish, sumptuous, inf
sexy, titillating. t> o b s c e n e . swanky, in/swish.
porous adj absorbent, cellular, holey, position n 1 locality, location, locus,
penetrable, permeable, pervious, place, placement, point, reference,
spongy. Opp impe r v io u s . site, situation, spot, whereabouts.
port n anchorage, dock, dockyard, 2 an awkward position, circum-
harbour, haven, marina, mooring, stances, condition, predicament,
sea-port. situation, state. 3 position of the body.
portable adj compact, convenient,
angle, pose, posture, stance. 4 intel-
lectual position, assertion, attitude,
easy to carry, handy, light, light-
contention, hypothesis, opinion,
weight, manageable, mobile, mov-
outlook, perspective, principle, propo-
able, pocket, pocket-sized, small,
sition, standpoint, thesis, view,
transportable. Opp u n w ie l d y .
viewpoint. 5 position in a firm.
porter n 1 caretaker, concierge, door- appointment, degree, employment,
keeper, doorman, gatekeeper, jan- function, grade, job, level, niche,
itor, security-guard, watchman. occupation, place, post, rank, role,
2 baggage-handler, bearer, carrier. standing, station, status, title. • vb
portion n allocation, allowance, bit, arrange, deploy, dispose, fix, locate,
chunk, division, fraction, fragment, place, put, settle, site, situate, stand,
helping, hunk, measure, part, per- station.
positive 308

positive adj 1 affirmative, assured, appointment, assignment, employ-

categorical, certain, clear, conclus- ment, function, job, occupation,
ive, confident, convinced, decided, office, place, position, situation,
definite, emphatic, explicit, firm, task, work. 4 airmail, cards, delivery,
incontestable, incontrovertible, ir- junk mail, letters, mail, packets,
refutable, real, sure, undeniable, un- parcels, postcards. • vb 1 advertise,
equivocal. 2 positive advice, beneficial, announce, display, pin up, proclaim,
constructive, helpful, optimistic, promulgate, publicize, publish, put
practical, useful, worthwhile. Opp up, stick up. 2 post a letter, dispatch,
NEGATIVE. mail, send, transmit. 3 post a sentry.
appoint, assign, locate, place, pos-
possess vb 1 be in possession of,
enjoy, have, hold, own. 2 be gifted ition, set, situate, station.
with, embody, embrace, include. poster n advertisement, announce-
3 possess territory, acquire, control, ment, bill, broadsheet, circular, dis-
dominate, govern, invade, occupy, play, flyer, notice, placard, sign.
rule, seize, take over. 4 possess a per- posterity n descendants, future gen-
son. bewitch, captivate, cast a spell erations, heirs, issue, offspring, pro-
over, charm, enthral, haunt, hypnot- geny, successors.
ize, obsess.
postpone vb adjourn, defer, delay,
possessions plur n assets, belong- extend, hold over, keep in abeyance,
ings, chattels, effects, estate, fortune, lay aside, put back, put off, inf put on
goods, property, riches, things, ice, inf put on the back burner, inf
wealth, worldly goods. shelve, stay, suspend, temporize.
possessive adj clinging, dominat- postscript n addendum, addition,
ing, domineering, jealous, overbear- afterthought, codicil (to will), epi-
ing, proprietorial, protective, selfish. logue, inf PS.
t> GREEDY.
postulate vb assume, hypothesize,
possibility n capability, chance, dan- posit, propose, suppose, theorize.
ger, feasibility, likelihood, odds,
opportunity, plausibility, potential, posture n 1 appearance, bearing,
potentiality, practicality, probability, carriage, deportment, pose, position,
risk. stance. 2 t> a t t it u d e .
possible adj achievable, admissible, posy n bouquet, bunch of flowers,
attainable, conceivable, credible, inf buttonhole, corsage, nosegay, spray,
doable, feasible, imaginable, likely, pot n basin, bowl, casserole, caul-
obtainable, inf on, plausible, poten- dron, container, crock, crucible, dish,
tial, practicable, practical, probable, jar, pan, saucepan, stewpot, teapot,
prospective, realizable, reasonable, urn, vessel.
tenable, thinkable, viable, workable. potent adj 1 effective, forceful,
Opp IMPOSSIBLE. formidable, influential, intoxicat-
possibly adv God willing, inf hope- ing (drink), mighty, overpowering,
fully, if possible, maybe, old use overwhelming, powerful, puissant,
peradventure, old use perchance, strong, vigorous. > s t r o n g . 2 a potent
perhaps. argument. > pe r s u a s iv e . Opp w e a k .
post n 1 baluster, bollard, brace, cap- potential adj 1 aspiring, budding,
stan, column, gate-post, leg, newel, embryonic, future, inf hopeful,
pale, paling, picket, pier, pile, pillar, intending, latent, likely, possible,
pole, prop, pylon, shaft, stake, stan- probable, promising, prospective, inf
chion, standard, starting-post, strut, would-be. 2 potential disaster, immin-
support, upright, winning-post. 2 a ent, impending, looming, threaten-
sentry’s post, location, place, point, ing. • n aptitude, capability, capacity,
position, station. 3 post in a firm. possibility, resources.
309 practise
potion n brew, concoction, decoc- a tyrant, ascendancy, inf clout, com-
tion, dose, draught, drink, drug, mand, control, dominance, domina-
elixir, liquid, medicine, mixture, tion, dominion, influence, mastery,
philtre, potation, tonic. omnipotence, oppression, potency,
potter vb dabble, do odd jobs, fiddle rule, sovereignty, supremacy, sway.
about, loiter, mess about, tinker, t> STRENGTH. Opp WEAKNESS.
work. powerful adj authoritative, cogent,
pottery n ceramics, china, crockery, commanding, compelling, consum-
crocks, earthenware, porcelain, stone- ing, convincing, dominant, dynamic,
ware, terracotta. effective, effectual, energetic, force-
ful, high-powered, influential, in-
pouch n bag, pocket, purse, reticule,
vincible, irresistible, mighty,
sack, wallet.
muscular, omnipotent, overpowering,
poultry n □ bantam, chicken, duck, fowl, overwhelming, persuasive, potent,
goose, guinea-fowl, hen, pullet, turkey. sovereign, vigorous, weighty. t> s t r o n g .
pounce vb ambush, attack, drop on, Opp POWERLESS.
jump on, leap on, seize, snatch, powerless adj defenceless, disabled,
spring at, strike, swoop down on, feeble, helpless, impotent, incapable,
take by surprise. incapacitated, ineffective, ineffectual,
pound n compound, corral, enclos- paralysed, unable, unfit. > w e a k . Opp
ure, pen. • vb batter, beat, crush, POWERFUL.
grind, hammer, knead, mash, pow- practicable adj achievable, attain-
der, pulp, pulverize, smash. > h it . able, inf doable, feasible, per-
pour vb 1 cascade, course, discharge, formable, possible, practical, real-
disgorge, flood, flow, gush, run, istic, sensible, viable, workable. Opp
spew, spill, spout, spurt, stream. 2 IMPRACTICABLE.
pour wine, decant, empty, serve, tip. practical adj 1 applied, empirical,
poverty n 1 beggary, bankruptcy, experimental. 2 businesslike, capa-
debt, destitution, hardship, impecu- ble, competent, down-to-earth,
niousness, indigence, insolvency, efficient, expert, hard-headed,
necessity, need, penuiy, privation, matter-of-fact, inf no-nonsense, prag-
want. 2 a poverty of talent, absence, matic, proficient, realistic, sensible,
dearth, insufficiency, lack, paucity, skilled. 3 a practical tool, convenient,
scarcity, shortage. Opp w e a l t h . functional, handy, usable, useful,
powder n dust, particles, talc. utilitarian. 4 t> pr a c h c a b l e . Opp im -
• vb 1 atomize, comminute, crush, pr a c t ic a l , t h e o r e t ic a l , practical joke
granulate, grind, pound, pulverize, > TRICK.
reduce to powder. 2 besprinkle, coat, practically adv almost, close to, just
cover with powder, dredge, dust, about, nearly, to all intents and pur-
sprinkle. poses, virtually.
powdered adj 11> po w d e r y . 2 dehyd- practice n 1 action, actuality, ap-
rated, dried, freeze-dried. plication, doing, effect, operation, real-
powdery adj chalky, crumbly, ity, use. 2 inf dummy-run, exercise,
crushed, disintegrating, dry, dusty, practising, preparation, rehearsal, inf
fine, friable, granular, granulated, run-through, training, inf try-out, inf
ground, loose, powdered, pulverized, work-out. 3 common practice, conven-
sandy. Opp s o l id , w e t . tion, custom, habit, modus operandi,
routine, tradition, way, wont. 4 a doc-
power n 1 ability, capability, capa-
tor’s practice, business, office, work.
city, competence, drive, energy, fac-
ulty, force, might, muscle, potential, practise vb 1 do exercises, drill,
skill, talent, vigour. 2 power to arrest. exercise, prepare, rehearse, train,
authority, privilege, right. 3 power of warm up, infwork out. 2 practise what
praise 310

you preach, apply, carry out, do, prearranged adj arranged before-
engage in, follow, make a practice hand, fixed, planned, predetermined,
of, perform, put into practice. prepared, rehearsed, thought out.
praise n 1 acclaim, acclamation,
Opp SPONTANEOUS.
accolade, admiration, adulation, precarious adj dangerous, inf dicey,
applause, approbation, approval, inf dodgy, dubious, hazardous, in-
commendation, compliment, con- secure, perilous, risky, rocky, shaky,
gratulation, encomium, eulogy, slippery, treacherous, uncertain, un-
homage, honour, ovation, panegyric, reliable, unsafe, unstable, un-
plaudits, testimonial, thanks, trib- steady, vulnerable, wobbly. Opp s a f e .
ute. 2 praise to God. adoration, devo- precaution n anticipation, defence,
tion, glorification, worship. • vb insurance, preventive measure, pro-
1 acclaim, admire, applaud, cheer, tection, provision, safeguard, safety
clap, commend, compliment, con- measure.
gratulate, inf crack up, eulogize, precede vb be in front of, come
extol, give a good review of, marvel before, go ahead, go before, go in
at, offer praise to, pay tribute to, inf front, herald, introduce, lead, lead
rave about, recommend, inf say nice into, pave the way for, preface, pre-
things about, show approval of. Opp fix, start, usher in. Opp f o l l o w .
c r it ic iz e . 2 praise God. adore, exalt,
glorify, honour, laud, magnify, wor- precious adj 1 costly, expensive,
ship. Opp CURSE. invaluable, irreplaceable, priceless,
valuable. Opp w o r t h l e s s . 2 adored,
praiseworthy adj admirable, com- beloved, darling, dear, loved, prized,
mendable, creditable, deserving, treasured, valued, venerated.
laudable, meritorious, worthy. > g o o d .
precipice n bluff, cliff, crag, drop,
Opp BAD.
escarpment, precipitous face, rock.
pram n baby-carriage, old use peram-
precipitate adj breakneck, hasty,
bulator, push-chair. headlong, meteoric, premature. >
prance vb bound, caper, cavort, q u ic k . • vb accelerate, advance, bring
dance, frisk, frolic, gambol, hop, jig on, cause, encourage, expedite, fur-
about, jump, leap, play, romp, skip, ther, hasten, huriy, incite, induce,
spring. instigate, occasion, provoke, spark
prattle vb babble, blather, chatter, off, trigger off.
gabble, maunder, inf rattle on, inf precipitation n □ dew, downpour,
witter on. drizzle, hail, rain, rainfall, shower, sleet,
pray vb beseech, call upon, invoke, snow, snowfall.
say prayers, supplicate. > a s k . precipitous adj abrupt, perpendic-
prayer n collect, devotion, entreaty,
ular, sharp, sheer, steep, vertical.
invocation, litany, meditation, peti- precise adj 1 accurate, clear-cut, cor-
tion, praise, supplication. rect, defined, definite, distinct, exact,
explicit, fixed, measured, right, spe-
prayer-book n breviary, missal,
cific, unambiguous, unequivocal,
preach vb 1 deliver a sermon, evan- well-defined. Opp impr e c is e . 2 precise
gelize, expound, proselytize, spread work, careful, critical, exacting, fas-
the Gospel. 2 expatiate, give moral tidious, faultless, finicky, flawless,
advice, harangue, inf lay down the meticulous, nice, perfect, punctili-
law, lecture, moralize, pontificate, ous, rigorous, scrupulous. Opp c a r e -
sermonize. l ess.
preacher n cleric, crusader, divine, preclude vb avert, avoid, bar, debar,
ecclesiastic, evangelist, minister, mis- exclude, forestall, frustrate, impede,
sionary, moralist, pastor, revivalist. make impossible, obviate, pre-empt,
> CLERGYMAN. prevent, prohibit, rule out, thwart.
 311
prejudiced
precocious adj advanced, forward, preamble, prelude, proem, proleg-
gifted, mature, quick. t> c l e v e r . Opp omenon, prologue. • vb begin, intro-
BACKWARD. duce, lead into, open, precede, prefix,
preconception n assumption, bias, start.
expectation, preconceived idea, pre- prefer vb advocate, inf back, be par-
disposition, prejudgement, prejudice, tial to, choose, fancy, favour, inf go
presupposition. for, incline towards, like, like better,
predatory adj acquisitive, avari- opt for, pick out, inf plump for, inf
cious, covetous, extortionate, greedy, put your money on, recommend,
hunting, marauding, pillaging, plun- select, single out, think preferable,
dering, preying, rapacious, ravenous, vote for, want.
voracious.
preferable adj advantageous, bet-
predecessor n ancestor, ante- ter, better-liked, chosen, desirable,
cedent, forebear, forefather, fore- favoured, likely, nicer, preferred, rec-
runner, precursor. ommended, wanted. Opp o b je c t io n -
predetermined adj 1 fated, des- a bl e.
tined, doomed, ordained, predes- preference n 1 choice, fancy,
tined. 2 agreed, prearranged, favourite, liking, option, pick, selec-
pre-planned, recognized, inf set up. tion, wish. 2 favouritism, inclination,
predicament n crisis, difficulty, partiality, predilection, prejudice,
dilemma, embarrassment, emer- proclivity.
gency, inf fix, impasse, in/jam, inf
mess, inf pickle, plight, problem, preferential adj advantageous, bet-
quandary, situation, state. ter, biased, favourable, favoured,
privileged, showing favouritism, spe-
predict vb augur, forebode, forecast, cial, superior.
foresee, foreshadow, foretell, fore-
token, forewarn, hint, intimate, pregnant adj 1 carrying a child,
presage, prognosticate, prophesy, tell expectant, inf expecting, gestating,
fortunes. gravid, parturient, old use with child.
2 pregnant remark. > me a n in g f u l .
predictable adj anticipated, certain,
expected, foreseeable, foreseen, prejudice n bias, bigotry, chauvin-
likely, inf on the cards, probable, ism, discrimination, dogmatism,
sure, unsurprising. Opp u n pr e d ic t a b l e . fanaticism, favouritism, intoler-
predominant adj ascendant, chief, ance, jingoism, leaning, narrow-
dominating, leading, main, prepon- mindedness, partiality, partisanship,
derant, prevailing, prevalent, prim- predilection, predisposition, pre-
ary, ruling, sovereign. judgement, racialism, racism, sex-
ism, unfairness, xenophobia. Opp
predominate vb be in the majority, t o l e r a n c e . • vb 1 bias, colour, incline,
control, dominate, inf have the upper influence, interfere with, make prej-
hand, hold sway, lead, outnumber, udiced, predispose, sway. 2 prejudice
outweigh, preponderate, prevail, your chances, damage, harm, injure,
reign, rule. ruin, spoil, undermine.
pre-eminent adj distinguished,
prejudiced adj biased, bigoted,
eminent, excellent, incomparable,
chauvinist, discriminatory, illiberal,
matchless, outstanding, peerless,
intolerant, jaundiced, jingoistic,
supreme, unrivalled, unsurpassed.
leading (question), loaded, narrow-
pre-empt vb anticipate, appropriate, minded, one-sided, parochial, partial,
arrogate, expropriate, forestall, seize, partisan, racist, sexist, tendentious,
take over. unfair, xenophobic. Opp impa r t ia l .
preface n exordium, foreword, prejudiced person bigot, chauvin-
introduction, inf lead-in, overture, ist, fanatic, racist, sexist, zealot.
prejudicial 312

prejudicial adj damaging, deleteri- ready, organize, pave the way, plan,
ous, detrimental, disadvantageous, process, set up. > ma k e . 2 prepare for
harmful, inimical, injurious, un- exams, inf cram, practise, revise,
favourable. study, inf swot. 3 prepare pupils for
preliminary adj advance, earliest, exams, brief, coach, educate, equip,
early, experimental, exploratory, instruct, rehearse, teach, train, tutor,
first, inaugural, initial, introductory, prepared > pr e -a r r a n g e d , r e a d y , pre-
opening, prefatory, preparatory, pare yourself be prepared, be ready,
qualifying, tentative, trial. • n > pr e - brace yourself, discipline yourself,
l u d e. fortify yourself, steel yourself.
prelude n beginning, inf curtain- preposterous adj bizarre, excessive,
raiser, exordium, introduction, extreme, grotesque, monstrous, out-
opener, opening, overture, pream- rageous, surreal, unreasonable,
ble, precursor, preface, preliminary, unthinkable. > a b s u r d .
preparation, proem, prolegomenon, prerequisite adj compulsory, essen-
prologue, start, starter, inf warm-up. tial, indispensable, mandatory,
Opp CONCLUSION, POSTSCRIPT. necessary, obligatory, prescribed,
premature adj abortive, before time, required, requisite, specified, stipu-
early, hasty, ill-timed, precipitate, inf lated. Opp o pt io n a l . • n condition,
previous, too early, too soon, un- essential, necessity, precondition,
developed, untimely. Opp l a t e . proviso, qualification, requirement,
requisite, Lat sine qua non, stipula-
premeditated adj calculated, con-
tion. '
scious, considered, contrived, delib-
erate, intended, intentional, planned, prescribe vb advise, assign, com-
prearranged, preconceived, prede- mand, demand, dictate, direct, fix,
termined, preplanned, studied, impose, instruct, lay down, ordain,
wilful. Opp SPONTANEOUS. order, recommend, require, specify,
stipulate, suggest.
premiss n assertion, assumption,
basis, grounds, hypothesis, proposi- presence n 1 attendance, closeness,
tion, supposition, thesis. companionship, company, nearness,
premonition n anxiety, fear, fore-
propinquity, proximity, society. 2 air,
boding, forewarning, inf funny feel- appearance, aura, bearing, comport-
ing, inf hunch, indication, intuition, ment, demeanour, impressiveness,
misgiving, omen, portent, presenti- mien, personality, poise, self-
ment, suspicion, warning, worry. assurance, self-possession.
preoccupied adj 1 absorbed, present adj 1 adjacent, at hand,
engaged, engrossed, immersed, inter- close, here, in attendance, nearby.
ested, involved, obsessed, sunk, 2 contemporary, current, existing,
taken up, wrapped up. 2 absent- extant, present-day, up-to-date. • n
minded, abstracted, day-dreaming, 1 inf here and now, today. 2 alms,
distracted, faraway, inattentive, lost bonus, bounty, charity, contribution,
in thought, musing, pensive, pon- donation, endowment, gift, grant,
dering, rapt, reflecting, thoughtful. gratuity, handout, offering, tip. • vb
1 award, bestow, confer, dispense,
preparation n arrangements, brief- distribute, donate, give, hand over,
ing, inf gearing up, getting ready, offer. 2 present evidence, adduce, bring
groundwork, making provision, meas- forward, demonstrate, display,
ures, organization, plans, practice, exhibit, furnish, proffer, put forward,
preparing, setting up, spadework, reveal, set out, show, submit. 3 pre-
training. sent a guest, announce, introduce,
prepare vb 1 arrange, cook, devise, make known. 4 present a play, act,
inf do what’s necessary, inf fix up, bring out, perform, put on, stage,
get ready, make arrangements, make present yourself > a t t e n d , r e po r t .
313 pretentious
presentable adj acceptable, ad- ance, influence, inf kudos, regard,
equate, all right, clean, decent, dec- renown, reputation, respect, stand-
orous, fit to be seen, good enough, ing, stature, status.
neat, passable, proper, respectable, prestigious adj acclaimed, august,
satisfactory, suitable, tidy, tolerable, celebrated, creditable, distinguished,
inf up to scratch, worthy. eminent, esteemed, estimable,
presently adv old use anon, before famed, famous, highly-regarded,
long, by and by, infin a jiffy, shortly, high-ranking, honourable, honoured,
soon. important, influential, pre-eminent,
preserve n 1 conserve, jam, jelly, renowned, reputable, respected, sig-
marmalade. 2 wildlife preserve, reser- nificant, wellknown. Opp in s ig n if ic a n t .
vation, reserve, sanctuary. • vb 1 care presume vb 1 assume, believe, con-
for, conserve, defend, guard, keep, jecture, gather, guess, hypothesize,
lay up, look after, maintain, perpetu- imagine, infer, postulate, suppose,
ate, protect, retain, safeguard, save, surmise, suspect, inf take for
secure, stockpile, store, support, sus- granted, inf take it, think. 2 He
tain, uphold, watch over. Opp d e s t r o y . presumed to correct me. be presumptu-
2 preserve food, bottle, can, chill, cure, ous enough, dare, have the effron-
dehydrate, dry, freeze, freeze-dry, tery, make bold, take the liberty,
irradiate, jam, pickle, refrigerate, venture.
salt, tin. 3 preserve a corpse, embalm,
presumptuous adj arrogant, bold,
mummify.
brazen, inf cheeky, conceited, for-
preside vb be in charge, chair, offi- ward, impertinent, impudent, in-
ciate, take charge, take the chair, solent, over-confident, inf pushy,
preside over t> g o v e r n . shameless, unauthorized, unwar-
press n magazines, the media, news- ranted. C> PROUD.
papers. • vb 1 apply pressure to, com- pretence n act, acting, affectation,
press, condense, cram, crowd, crush, appearance, artifice, camouflage,
depress, force, gather, infjam, push, charade, counterfeiting, deception,
shove, squash, squeeze, subject to disguise, display, dissembling, dis-
pressure. 2 press laundry, flatten, iron, simulation, excuse, facade, falsifica-
smooth. 3 press someone to stay, ask, tion, feigning, feint, fiction, front,
beg, bully, coerce, constrain, dra- guise, hoax, inf humbug, hypocrisy,
goon, entreat, exhort, implore, insincerity, invention, lying, make-
importune, induce, inf lean on, per- believe, masquerade, pose, posing,
suade, pressure, pressurize, put pres- posturing, pretext, ruse, sham, show,
sure on, request, require, urge, simulation, subterfuge, trickery,
pressing > u r g e n t . wile. t> DECEIT.
pressure n 1 burden, compression,
pretend vb 1 act, affect, allege,
force, heaviness, load, might, power, behave insincerely, bluff, counterfeit,
stress, weight. 2 pressure of modem deceive, disguise, dissemble, dis-
life, adversity, affliction, constraints, simulate, fake, feign, fool, hoax,
demands, difficulties, exigencies, inf hoodwink, imitate, impersonate,
hassle, hurry, oppression, problems, inf kid, lie, inf make out, mislead,
strain, stress, urgency. • vb ask, beg, perform, play a part, play-act, pose,
bully, coerce, constrain, dragoon, posture, profess, purport, put on
entreat, exhort, implore, importune, an act, sham, simulate, take some-
induce, inf lean on, persuade, press, one in, trick. 2 t> ima g in e . 3 > c l a im .
pressurize, put pressure on, request,
require, urge. pretender n aspirant, claimant,
prestige n cachet, celebrity, credit,
rival, suitor.
distinction, eminence, esteem, fame, pretentious adj affected, inf arty,
glory, good name, honour, import- conceited, exaggerated, extravagant,
pretext 314

grandiose, inf highfalutin, inflated, cedent, earlier, erstwhile, foregoing,

ostentatious, overblown, infover the former, past, preceding, prior. Opp
top, pompous, showy, inf snobbish, SUBSEQUENT. 2 > PREMATURE.
superficial. Opp u n pr e t e n t io u s . prey n kill, quarry, victim. • vb prey
pretext n cloak, cover, disguise, on eat, feed on, hunt, kill, live off.
excuse, pretence. ’> EXPLOIT.
pretty adj appealing, attractive, price n 1 amount, charge, cost, inf
inf bonny, charming, inf cute, damage, expenditure, expense, fare,
dainty, delicate, inf easy on the eye, fee, figure, outlay, payment, rate,
fetching, good-looking, lovely, nice, sum, terms, toll, value, worth. 2 Give
pleasing, derog pretty-pretty, win- me a price, estimate, offer, quotation,
some. > BEAUTIFUL. Opp UGLY. • adv valuation. > pa y me n t , pay the price
fairly, moderately, quite, rather, for > ATONE.
reasonably, somewhat, tolerably. Opp priceless adj 1 costly, dear, ex-
VERY. pensive, incalculable, inestimable,
prevail vb be prevalent, hold sway, invaluable, irreplaceable, precious,
predominate, preponderate, succeed, inf pricey, rare, valuable. Opp w o r t h -
triumph, inf win the day. > w in . pre- l e s s . 2 > FUNNY.
vailing > PREVALENT. prick vb 1 bore into, jab, lance, per-
prevalent adj accepted, ascendant, forate, pierce, punch, puncture,
chief, common, commonest, current, riddle, stab, sting. 2 > s t imu l a t e .
customary, dominant, dominating, prickle n 1 barb, bristle, bur, needle,
effectual, established, extensive, spike, spine, thorn. 2 irritation, itch,
familiar, fashionable, general, gov- pricking, prickling, tingle, tingling.
erning, influential, main, main- • vb irritate, itch, make your skin
stream, normal, ordinary, orthodox, crawl, scratch, sting, tingle.
pervasive, popular, powerful, pre- prickly adj 1 barbed, bristly, rough,
dominant, prevailing, principal, rul- scratchy, sharp, spiky, spiny,
ing, ubiquitous, universal, usual, stubbly, thorny, unshaven. Opp
widespread. Opp u n u s u a l . SMOOTH. 2 > IRRITABLE.
prevaricate vb inf beat about the pride n 1 Fr amour propre, gratifica-
bush, be evasive, cavil, deceive, equi- tion, happiness, honour, pleasure,
vocate, inf fib, hedge, lie, mislead, satisfaction, self-respect, self-satis-
quibble, temporize. faction. > d ig n it y . 2 her pride and joy.
prevent vb anticipate, avert, avoid, jewel, treasure, treasured possession.
baffle, bar, block, check, control, 3 pride before a fall, arrogance, being
curb, deter, fend off, foil, forestall, proud, inf big-headedness, boastful-
frustrate, hamper, inf head off, inf ness, conceit, egotism, haughtiness,
help (can’t help it), hinder, impede, hubris, megalomania, narcissism,
inhibit, inoculate against, intercept, overconfidence, presumption, self-
inf nip in the bud, obstruct, obviate, admiration, self-esteem, self-import-
preclude, pre-empt, prohibit, inf put ance, self-love, smugness, snobbery,
a stop to, restrain, save, stave off, snobbishness, vainglory, vanity. Opp
stop, take precautions against, HUMILITY.
thwart, ward off. > f o r b id . Opp priest n confessor, Druid, lama,
ENCOURAGE. minister, preacher. > c l e r g y ma n .
preventive adj anticipatory, coun- priggish adj conservative, fussy, inf
teractive, deterrent, obstructive, goody-goody, haughty, moralistic,
precautionary, pre-emptive, pre- prudish, self-righteous, sententious,
ventative. stiff-necked, inf stuffy. > pr im .
previous adj 1 above-mentioned, prim adj demure, fastidious, formal,
aforementioned, aforesaid, ante- inhibited, narrow-minded, precise,
 315
privileged
inf prissy, proper, prudish, inf uprightness, virtue, principles
starchy, strait-laced. Opp b r o a d min d e d . basics, elements, essentials, funda-
primal adj 1 early, earliest, first, mentals, laws, philosophy, theory.
original, primeval, primitive, prim- print n 1 impression, imprint, inden-
ordial. 2 > PRIMARY. tation, mark, stamp. 2 characters,
primarily adv basically, chiefly, espe- fount, lettering, letters, printing,
cially, essentially, firstly, funda- text, type, typeface. 3 copy, duplic-
mentally, generally, mainly, mostly, ate, engraving, etching, facsimile,
particularly, predominantly, pre- linocut, lithograph, monoprint, pho-
eminently, principally. tograph, reproduction, silk screen,
woodcut. > pic t u r e . • vb 1 copy,
primary adj basic, cardinal, chief, impress, imprint, issue, publish, run
dominant, first, foremost, funda- off, stamp. 2 > w r it e .
mental, greatest, important, initial,
prior adj earlier, erstwhile, former,
leading, main, major, outstand-
late, old, onetime, previous.
ing, paramount, predominant, pre-
eminent, primal, prime, principal, priority n first place, greater import-
supreme, top. ance, precedence, preference, pre-
rogative, right-of-way, seniority,
prime adj 1 best, first-class, first-rate, superiority, urgency.
foremost, select, superior, top, top-
quality. > EXCELLENT. 2 > PRIMARY. • Vb prise vb force, lever, prize, wrench,
get ready, prepare. prison n old use approved school, old
use Borstal, cell, si clink, custody,
primitive adj 1 aboriginal, ancient,
detention centre, dungeon, gaol,
barbarian, early, first, prehistoric,
guardhouse, house of correction, jail,
primeval, savage, uncivilized, uncul-
inf lock-up, Amer penitentiary, oubli-
tivated. 2 primitive technology, ante-
diluvian, backward, basic, injbehind ette, reformatory, si stir, youth cus-
tody centre. > c a pt iv it y .
the times, crude, elementary, obso-
lete, rough, rudimentary, simple, prisoner n captive, convict, detainee,
simplistic, undeveloped. > o l d . inf gaolbird, hostage, inmate,
3 primitive art. childlike, crude, naive, internee, lifer, inf old lag, inf trusty.
unpolished, unrefined, unsophi- privacy n concealment, isolation,
sticated. Opp ADVANCED, SOPHISTICATED. monasticism, quietness, retirement,
principal adj basic, cardinal, chief, retreat, seclusion, secrecy, solitude.
dominant, dominating, first, fore- private adj 1 exclusive, individual,
most, fundamental, greatest, high- particular, personal, privately owned,
est, important, key, leading, main, reserved. 2 classified, confidential,
major, outstanding, paramount, pre- inf hush-hush, inf off the record,
dominant, pre-eminent, prevailing, restricted, secret, top secret, undis-
primary, prime, starring, supreme, closed. 3 a private meeting, clandes-
top. • n 1 > c h ie f . 2 the principal in a tine, closed, covert, intimate,
play, diva, hero, heroine, lead, lead- surreptitious. 4 a private hideaway.
ing role, prima ballerina, protag- concealed, hidden, inaccessible, iso-
onist, star. lated, little-known, quiet, secluded,
sequestered, solitary, unknown,
principle n 1 assumption, axiom,
withdrawn. Opp pu b l ic .
belief, creed, criterion, doctrine,
dogma, ethic, idea, ideal, maxim, privilege n advantage, benefit, con-
notion, precept, proposition, rule, cession, entitlement, exemption,
standard, teaching, tenet, truism, freedom, immunity, licence, prerog-
truth, values. 2 a person of principle. ative, right.
conscience, high-mindedness, hon- privileged adj 1 advantaged, author-
esty, honour, ideals, integrity, moral- ized, elite, entitled, favoured, hon-
ity, probity, scruples, standards, oured, immune, licensed, powerful,
prize 316

protected, sanctioned, special, su- 2 arise, be derived, begin, develop,

perior. 2 > WEALTHY. emerge, grow, originate, spring up,
prize n accolade, award, jackpot, inf start. I> RESULT.
purse, reward, trophy, winnings. proceedings plur n 1 events, inf
• vb 1 appreciate, approve of, goings-on, happenings, things. 2 legal
cherish, esteem, hold dear, like, rate proceedings, action, lawsuit, pro-
highly, regard, revere, treasure, cedure, process. 3 proceedings of
value. 2 > pr is e . a meeting, annals, business, deal-
probable adj believable, convincing, ings, inf doings, matters, minutes,
credible, expected, feasible, likely, records, report, transactions.
inf odds-on, plausible, possible, proceeds plur n earnings, gain, gate,
predictable, presumed, undoubted, income, profit, receipts, returns,
unquestioned. Opp impr o b a b l e . revenue, takings. > mo n e y .
probationer n apprentice, beginner, process n 1 function, method, oper-
inexperienced worker, learner, ation, procedure, proceeding, sys-
novice, tiro. tem, technique. 2 process of ageing.
probe n enquiry, examination, ex- course, development, evolution,
ploration, inquiry, investigation, experience, progression. • vb 1 alter,
research, scrutiny, study. • vb change, convert, deal with, make
1 delve, dig, penetrate, plumb, poke, usable, manage, modify, organize,
prod. 2 probe a problem, examine, prepare, refine, transform, treat. 2 >
explore, go into, inquire into, invest- PARADE.
igate, look into, research into, scru- procession n cavalcade, chain, col-
tinize, study. umn, cortege, file, line, march,
problem n 1 brain-teaser, conun- march-past, motorcade, pageant,
drum, enigma, mystery, inf poser, parade, sequence, string, succession,
puzzle, question, riddle. 2 a worrying train.
problem, burden, inf can of worms, proclaim vb 1 announce, advertise,
complication, difficulty, dilemma, assert, declare, give out, make
dispute, inf facer, inf headache, inf known, profess, promulgate, pro-
hornet’s nest, predicament, nounce, publish. 2 l> DECREE.
quandary, set-back, snag, trouble,
procrastinate vb be dilatory, be
worry.
indecisive, dally, defer a decision,
problematic adj complicated, con- delay, inf dilly-dally, dither, inf drag
troversial, debatable, difficult, dis- your feet, equivocate, evade the
puted, doubtful, enigmatic, hard to issue, hesitate, inf hum and haw,
deal with, inf iffy, intractable, moot pause, inf play for time, postpone,
(point), problematical, puzzling, ques- put things off, inf shilly-shally, stall,
tionable, sensitive, taxing, inf tricky, temporize, vacillate, waver.
uncertain, unsettling, woriying. Opp
STRAIGHTFORWARD. procure vb acquire, buy, come by,
find, get, inf get hold of, inf lay your
procedure n approach, conduct, hands on, obtain, inf pick up, pur-
course of action, inf drill, formula, chase, requisition.
method, methodology, Lat modus
operandi, plan of action, policy, prac- prod vb dig, elbow, goad, jab, nudge,
tice, process, routine, scheme, strat- poke, push, urge on. > h it , u r g e .
egy, system, technique, way. prodigal adj excessive, extravagant,
proceed vb 1 advance, carry on, con- immoderate, improvident, irrespons-
tinue, follow, forge ahead, inf get ible, lavish, profligate, reckless, self-
going, go ahead, go on, make head- indulgent, wasteful. Opp t h r if t y .
way, make progress, move along, prodigy n curiosity, freak, genius,
move forward, inf press on, progress. marvel, miracle, phenomenon, rar-
 317
profuse
ity, sensation, talent, virtuoso, inf Opp u n pr o f e s s io n a l . • n expert, pro-
whizz kid, wonder, Ger Wunderkind, fessional player, professional worker,
produce n crop, harvest, output, proficient adj able, accomplished,
yield. > pr o d u c t . • vb 1 assemble, adept, capable, competent, efficient,
bring out, cause, compose, conjure expert, gifted, professional, skilled,
up, construct, create, cultivate, talented. Opp in c o mpe t e n t .
develop, fabricate, form, generate,
give rise to, grow, initiate, invent, profile n 1 contour, outline, shape,
make, manufacture, originate, pro- side view, silhouette. 2 personal pro-
voke, result in, supply, think up, turn file. account, biography, Lat curric-
out, yield. 2 produce evidence, advance, ulum vitae, sketch, study.
bring out, disclose, display, exhibit, profit n advantage, benefit, excess,
furnish, introduce, offer, present, gain, interest, proceeds, return, rev-
provide, put forward, reveal, show, enue, surplus, yield. • vb 1 advance,
supply, throw up. 3 produce children. avail, benefit, further the interests
bear, beget, breed, give birth to, of, pay, serve. t> h e l p . 2 profit from a
raise, rear. 4 produce a play, direct, sale, capitalize (on), inf cash in, earn
mount, present, put on, stage. money, gain, inf make a killing,
product n 1 artefact, by-product, make a profit, make money, profit
commodity, end-product, goods, by, profit from > e x pl o it .
merchandise, output, produce, pro- profitable adj advantageous, be-
duction. 2 consequence, effect, fruit, neficial, commercial, enriching,
issue, outcome, result, upshot, yield, fruitful, gainful, lucrative, money-
productive adj 1 beneficial, busy, making, paying, productive, profit-
constructive, creative, effective, effi- making, remunerative, rewarding,
cient, gainful (employment), inventive, useful, valuable, well-paid, worth-
profitable, profitmaking, remunera- while. Opp UNPROFITABLE.
tive, rewarding, useful, valuable, profiteer n black-marketeer, ex-
worthwhile. 2 a productive garden. ploiter, extortionist, racketeer. • vb
abundant, bounteous, bountiful,
exploit, extort, fleece, overcharge.
fecund, fertile, fruitful, lush, prolific,
vigorous. Opp UNPRODUCTIVE. profligate adj 1 abandoned,
profess vb 1 affirm, announce, debauched, degenerate, depraved,
assert, asseverate, aver, confess, con- dissolute, immoral, libertine, licen-
firm, declare, maintain, state, vow. tious, loose, perverted, promiscuous,
2 profess to be an expert, allege, claim, sinful, sybaritic, unprincipled, wan-
make out, pretend, purport. ton. > w ic k e d . 2 extravagant, prod-
igal, reckless, spendthrift, wasteful.
profession n 1 business, calling,
career, craft, employment, job, fine profound adj 1 deep, heartfelt,
of work, metier, occupation, trade, intense, sincere. 2 a profound discus-
vocation, work. 2 profession of love. sion. abstruse, arcane, erudite, eso-
acknowledgement, affirmation, teric, imponderable, informed,
announcement, assertion, avowal, intellectual, knowledgeable, learned,
confession, declaration, statement, penetrating, philosophical, recon-
testimony. dite, sagacious, scholarly, serious,
thoughtful, wise. 3 profound silence.
professional adj 1 able, authorized,
absolute, complete, extreme, funda-
educated, experienced, expert,
mental, perfect, thorough, total,
knowledgeable, licensed, official, pro
unqualified. Opp s u pe r f ic ia l .
ficient, qualified, skilled, trained. Opp
a m a t e u r . 2 full-time, paid. 3 profes- profuse adj abundant, ample, boun-
sional work, businesslike, competent, tiful, copious, extravagant, exuber-
conscientious, efficient, masterly, ant, generous, lavish, luxuriant,
proper, skilful, thorough, well-done. plentiful, productive, prolific, super-
programme 318

abundant, thriving, unsparing, proposal, scheme, task, undertaking,

unstinting. Opp m e a n , s pa r s e . venture. • vb 1 concoct, contrive,
programme n 1 agenda, bill of fare,
design, devise, invent, plan, propose,
calendar, curriculum, inf line-up, list- scheme, think up. 2 beetle, bulge,
ing, menu, plan, routine, schedule, extend, jut out, overhang, protrude,
scheme, syllabus, timetable. 2 a IV stand out, stick out. 3 project into
programme, broadcast, performance, space, cast, inf chuck, fling, hurl,
presentation, production, show, launch, lob, propel, shoot, throw.
transmission. 4 project light, cast, flash, shine, throw
out. 5 project future profits, estimate,
progress n 1 advance, break- forecast, predict.
through, development, evolution,
proliferate vb burgeon, flourish,
forward movement, furtherance,
grow, increase, multiply, mushroom,
gain, growth, headway, improve-
reproduce, thrive.
ment, march (of time), maturation,
progression, inf step forward. 2 jour- prolific adj 1 abundant, bounteous,
ney, route, travels, way. 3 progress in bountiful, copious, fruitful, numer-
a career, advancement, betterment, ous, plenteous, profuse, rich. 2 a
elevation, promotion, rise, inf step prolific writer, creative, fertile,
up. • vb advance, inf come on, productive. Opp u n pr o d u c t iv e .
develop, inf forge ahead, go forward, prolong vb delay, inf drag out, draw
go 'on, make headway, make out, elongate, extend, increase, keep
progress, move forward, press for- up, lengthen, make longer, inf pad
ward, press on, proceed, prosper. out, protract, inf spin out, stretch
> IMPROVE. Opp REGRESS, STAGNATE, OUt. Opp SHORTEN.
progression n 1 > pr o g r e s s . 2 chain, prominent adj 1 conspicuous, dis-
concatenation, course, flow, order, cernible, distinguishable, evident,
row, sequence, series, string, succes- eye-catching, large, notable, notice-
sion. able, obtrusive, obvious, pronounced,
progressive adj 1 accelerating,
recognizable, salient, significant,
advancing, continuing, continuous, striking. Opp in c o n s pic u o u s . 2 bulging,
developing, escalating, gradual, jutting out, projecting, protruding,
growing, increasing, ongoing, steady. protuberant, sticking out. 3 cel-
2 progressive ideas, advanced, avant- ebrated, distinguished, eminent,
garde, contemporary, dynamic, familiar, foremost, illustrious, im-
enterprising, forward-looking, inf portant, leading, major, much-
go-ahead, modernistic, radical, publicized, noted, outstanding,
reformist, revisionist, revolutionary, public, renowned. > f a mo u s . Opp
up-to-date. Opp c o n s e r v a t iv e . UNKNOWN.
promiscuous adj casual, haphaz-
prohibit vb ban, bar, block, censor,
ard, indiscriminate, irresponsible,
check, inf cut out, debar, disallow,
non-selective, random, undiscrim-
exclude, foil, forbid, hinder, impede,
inating. > IMMORAL. Opp MORAL.
inhibit, interdict, make illegal, out-
law, place an embargo on, preclude, promise n 1 assurance, commit-
prevent, proscribe, restrict, rule out, ment, compact, contract, covenant,
shut out, stop, taboo, veto. Opp a l l o w . guarantee, oath, pledge, undertak-
ing, vow, word, word of honour. 2
prohibitive adj discouraging, exces-
actor with promise, capability, expecta-
sive, exorbitant, impossible, inf out of tion^), latent ability, potential,
reach, out of the question, unreas- promising qualities, talent. • vb
onable, unthinkable. 1 agree, assure, commit yourself,
project n activity, assignment, con- consent, contract, engage, give a
tract, design, enterprise, idea, job, promise, give your word, guarantee,
piece of research, plan, programme, pledge, swear, take an oath, under-
319 proper
take, vow. 2 The clouds promise rain. decree, judge, make known, pro-
augur, old use betoken, forebode, claim, state. > s pe a k .
foretell, hint at, indicate, presage, pronounced adj clear, conspicuous,
prophesy, show signs of, suggest. decided, definite, distinct, evident,
promising adj auspicious, budding, inescapable, marked, noticeable,
encouraging, favourable, hopeful, obvious, prominent, recognizable,
likely, optimistic, propitious, tal- striking, unambiguous, undisguised,
ented, inf up-and-coming. unmistakable, well-defined.
promontory n cape, foreland, head- pronunciation n accent, articula-
land, peninsula, point, projection, tion, delivery, diction, elocution,
ridge, spit, spur. enunciation, inflection, intonation,
modulation, speech.
promote vb 1 advance, elevate, exalt,
give promotion, move up, prefer, proof n 1 authentication, certifica-
raise, upgrade. 2 promote a product. tion, confirmation, corroboration,
advertise, back, boost, champion, demonstration, evidence, facts,
encourage, endorse, further, help, grounds, substantiation, testimony,
make known, market, patronize, inf validation, verification. 2 the proof of
plug, popularize, publicize, inf push, the pudding, criterion, judgement,
recommend, sell, speak for, sponsor, measure, test, trial.
support. > HELP. prop n brace, buttress, crutch, post,
promoter n backer, champion,
stay, strut, support, truss, upright.
patron, sponsor, supporter. • vb 1 bolster, brace, buttress, hold
up, reinforce, shore up, support,
promotion n 1 advancement, eleva- sustain. 2 lean, rest, stand.
tion, preferment, rise, upgrading. propaganda n advertising, brain-
2 promotion of a product, advertising,
washing, disinformation, indoctrina-
backing, encouragement, further- tion, persuasion, publicity.
ance, marketing, publicity, recom-
mendation, selling, sponsorship. propagate vb 1 breed, generate,
increase, multiply, produce, prolif-
prompt adj eager, efficient, expedi- erate, reproduce. 2 propagate ideas.
tious, immediate, instantaneous, on circulate, disseminate, pass on,
time, punctual, timely, unhesitating, promote, promulgate, publish,
willing. > q u ic k . Opp u n pu n c t u a l . • n spread, transmit. 3 propagate plants.
cue, line, reminder. • vb advise, coax, grow from seed, layer, sow, take
egg on, encourage, exhort, help, cuttings.
incite, influence, inspire, jog the
memory, motivate, nudge, persuade, propel vb drive, force, impel, launch,
prod, provoke, remind, rouse, spur, move, inf pitchfork, push, send, set in
stimulate, urge. motion, shoot, spur, thrust, urge.
propeller n rotor, screw, vane,
prone adj 1 face down, flat, hori-
zontal, lying, on your front, prost- proper adj 1 becoming, conven-
rate, stretched out. Opp s u pin e . 2 prone tional, decent, decorous, delicate,
to colds, apt, disposed, given, inclined, dignified, formal, genteel, gentle-
liable, likely, predisposed, subject, manly, grave, in good taste, ladylike,
susceptible, tending, vulnerable. Opp modest, polite, derog prim, derog
IMMUNE. prudish, respectable, sedate, seemly,
serious, solemn, tactful, tasteful.
prong n point, spike, spur, tine, 2 acceptable, accepted, advisable,
pronounce vb 1 articulate, aspirate, apposite, appropriate, apropos, apt,
enunciate, express, put into words, deserved, fair, fitting, just, lawful,
say, sound, speak, utter, vocalize, legal, normal, orthodox, rational,
voice. 2 pronounce judgement. sensible, suitable, unexceptionable,
announce, assert, asseverate, declare, usual, valid. 3 the proper time, accur-
property 320

ate, correct, exact, precise, right. put forward, recommend, submit,

4 the proper place, allocated, distinc- suggest. 2 aim, have in mind, intend,
tive, individual, own, particular, mean, offer, plan, purpose. 3 propose
reserved, separate, special, unique. a candidate, nominate, put forward,
Opp IMPROPER. put up, sponsor.
property n 1 assets, belongings, cap- propriety n appropriateness, apt-
ital, chattels, effects, fortune, inf ness, correctness, courtesy, decency,
gear, goods, holdings, patrimony, decorum, delicacy, dignity, etiquette,
possessions, resources, riches, fairness, fitness, formality, gentility,
wealth. 2 acreage, buildings, estate, good form, good manners, gravity,
land, premises. 3 attribute, charac- justice, modesty, politeness, derog
teristic, feature, hallmark, idiosyn- prudishness, refinement, respectabil-
crasy, oddity, peculiarity, quality, ity, sedateness, seemliness, sensitiv-
quirk, trait. ity, suitability, tact, tastefulness. Opp
prophecy n augury, crystal-gazing, IMPROPRIETY.
divination, forecast, foretelling, for- prosaic adj 1 clear, direct, down to
tune-telling, oracle, prediction, pro- earth, factual, matter-of-fact, plain,
gnosis, prognostication, vaticination, simple, straightforward, to the point,
prophesy vb augur, bode, divine, unadorned, understandable, unemo-
forecast, foresee, foreshadow, fore- tional, unsentimental, unvarnished.
tell, portend, predict, presage, pro- 2 [derog] characterless, cliched, com-
gnosticate, promise, vaticinate. monplace, dry, dull, flat, hackneyed,
lifeless, monotonous, mundane,
prophet n clairvoyant, forecaster,
pedestrian, prosy, routine, stereo-
fortune-teller, oracle, seer, sibyl,
typed, trite, unfeeling, unimagin-
soothsayer.
ative, uninspired, uninspiring,
prophetic adj apocalyptic, farseeing, unpoetic, unromantic. > o r d in a r y .
oracular, predictive, prescient, pro- Opp POETIC.
gnostic, prophesying, sibylline.
prosecute vb 1 accuse, arraign,
propitious adj advantageous, auspi- bring an action against, bring to
cious, favourable, fortunate, happy, trial, charge, indict, institute legal
lucky, opportune, promising, prov- proceedings against, prefer charges
idential, rosy, timely, well-timed. against, put on trial, sue, take legal
proportion n 1 balance, compari- proceedings against, take to court.
son, correlation, correspondence, 2 > PURSUE.
distribution, equivalence, ratio, sta- prospect n 1 aspect, landscape, out-
tistical relationship. 2 allocation, look, panorama, perspective, scene,
fraction, part, percentage, piece, seascape, sight, spectacle, view, vista.
quota, ration, section, share. 2 prospect offine weather, anticipation,
> n u m b e r , q u a n t it y , proportions chance, expectation, hope, likeli-
dimensions, extent, magnitude, mea- hood, opportunity, possibility, prob-
surements, size, volume. ability, promise. • vb explore, quest,
proportional adj analogous, bal- search, survey.
anced, commensurate, comparable, prospective adj anticipated, ap-
corresponding, equitable, in propor- proaching, awaited, coming, expected,
tion, just, proportionate, relative, forthcoming, future, imminent,
symmetrical. Opp d is pr o po r t io n a t e . impending, intended, likely, looked-
proposal n bid, declaration, draft, for, negotiable, pending, possible,
motion, offer, plan, project, proposi- potential, probable.
tion, recommendation, scheme, prospectus n announcement,
statement, suggestion, tender. brochure, catalogue, leaflet, mani-
propose vb 1 advance, ask for, inf festo, pamphlet, programme, scheme,
come up with, present, propound, syllabus.
 321 proud
prosper vb become prosperous, be tering, shielding, waterproof. 2 pro-
successful, inf boom, burgeon, tective parents, careful, defensive,
develop, do well, fare well, flourish, heedful, jealous, paternalistic, pos-
inf get ahead, inf get on, inf go from sessive, solicitous, vigilant, watchful.
strength to strength, grow, inf make
protector n benefactor, bodyguard,
good, inf make your fortune, profit,
champion, defender, guard,
progress, strengthen, succeed, thrive.
guardian, si minder, patron.
Opp FAIL.
prosperity n affluence, injbonanza, protest n 1 complaint, cry of disap-
inf boom, good fortune, growth, opu- proval, demur, demurral, dissent,
lence, plenty, profitability, riches, exception, grievance, inf gripe, inf
success, wealth. grouse, grumble, objection, opposi-
tion, outcry, protestation, remon-
prosperous adj affluent, inf bloom- strance. 2 inf demo, demonstration,
ing, inf booming, buoyant, expand- march, rally. • vb 1 appeal, argue,
ing, flourishing, fruitful, healthy, challenge a decision, complain, cry
moneyed, moneymaking, productive, out, expostulate, express disap-
profitable, prospering, rich, success- proval, fulminate, inf gripe, inf
ful, thriving, vigorous, wealthy, inf grouse, grumble, make a protest, inf
well-heeled, well-off, well-to-do. Opp moan, object, remonstrate, take
UNSUCCESSFUL. exception. 2 demonstrate, injhold a
prostitute n old use bawd, call girl, demo, march. 3 protest your innocence.
old use camp follower, old use cour- affirm, assert, asseverate, aver,
tesan, old use harlot, inf hooker, declare, insist on, profess, swear.
streetwalker, old use strumpet, inf protracted adj endless, extended,
tart, toy boy, trollop, whore. • vb interminable, long-drawn-out, long-
cheapen, debase, degrade, demean, winded, never-ending, prolonged,
devalue, lower, misuse. Spun-OUt. > LONG. Opp SHORT.
prostrate adj > o v e r c o me , pr o n e . • vb protrude vb balloon, bulge, extend,
prostrate yourself abase yourself, bow, jut out, overhang, poke out, project,
kneel, kowtow, lie flat, submit. stand out, stick out, stick up, swell.
> GROVEL.
protruding adj bulbous, bulging, dis-
protagonist n chief actor, con-
tended, gibbous, humped, jutting,
tender, contestant, hero, heroine, overhanging, projecting, prominent,
lead, leading figure, principal, title protuberant, swollen, tumescent.
role.
proud adj 1 appreciative, delighted,
protect vb care for, cherish, con-
serve, defend, escort, guard, harbour, glad, gratified, happy, honoured,
insulate, keep, keep safe, look after, pleased, satisfied. 2 a proud bearing.
mind, preserve, provide cover for, brave, dignified, independent, self-
safeguard, screen, secure, shield, respecting. 3 a proud history, august,
stand up for, support, take care of, distinguished, glorious, great, hon-
tend, watch over. Opp e n d a n g e r , ourable, illustrious, noble, reputable,
respected, splendid, worthy. 4 [derog]
NEGLECT.
arrogant, inf big-headed, boastful,
protection n 1 care, conservation, bumptious, inf cocksure, inf cocky,
custody, defence, guardianship, conceited, disdainful, egocentric,
patronage, preservation, safekeep- egotistical, grand, haughty, in/high
ing, safety, security, tutelage. 2 bar- and mighty, immodest, lordly, nar-
rier, buffer, bulwark, cloak, cover, cissistic, self-centred, self-important,
guard, insulation, screen, shelter, self-satisfied, smug, snobbish, inf
shield. snooty, inf stuck-up, supercilious, inf
protective adj 1 fireproof, insulat- swollen-headed, inf toffee-nosed,
ing, preservative, protecting, shel- vain, vainglorious. Opp mo d e s t .
provable 322

provable adj demonstrable, verifi- provocation n inf aggravation,

able. Opp UNPROVABLE. cause, challenge, grievance, grounds,
prove vb ascertain, assay, attest,
incentive, incitement, inducement,
authenticate, inf bear out, certify, justification, motivation, motive,
check, confirm, corroborate, demon- reason, stimulus, taunts, teasing.
strate, establish, explain, justify, provocative adj 1 alluring, arous-
show to be true, substantiate, test, ing, erotic, pornographic, inf
verify. Opp d is pr o v e . raunchy, seductive, sensual, sensu-
proven adj accepted, proved, reliable, ous, inf sexy, tantalizing, tempting.
tried and tested, trustworthy, 2 inf aggravating, annoying, infuri-
undoubted, unquestionable, valid, ating, irksome, irritating, madden-
verified. Opp d o u b t f u l , t h e o r e t ic a l . ing, provoking, teasing, vexing.
proverb n adage, maxim, old use saw. provoke vb 1 activate, arouse,
t> SAYING. awaken, bring about, call forth,
cause, elicit, encourage, excite,
proverbial adj aphoristic, axiomatic,
foment, generate, give rise to,
cliched, conventional, customary,
induce, initiate, inspire, instigate,
famous, legendary, time-honoured,
kindle, motivate, promote, prompt,
traditional, well-known.
spark off, start, stimulate, stir up,
provide vb afford, allot, allow, urge on, work up. 2 inf aggravate,
arrange for, cater, contribute, anger, annoy, enrage, exasperate,
donate, endow, equip, inf fix up with, gall, inf get on your nerves, goad,
inf fork out, furnish, give, grant, lay incense, incite, inflame, infuriate,
on, lend, make provision, offer, pres- insult, irk, irritate, madden, offend,
ent, produce, purvey, spare, stock, outrage, pique, rile, rouse, tease, tor-
supply, yield. ment, upset, vex, inf wind up, worry.
providence n destiny, divine inter- Opp PACIFY.
vention, fate, fortune, karma, kismet. prowess n 1 ability, adeptness,
provident adj careful, economical, adroitness, aptitude, cleverness,
far-sighted, forward-looking, frugal, competence, dexterity, excellence,
judicious, prudent, thrifty. expertise, genius, mastery, pro-
providential adj felicitous, fortu-
ficiency, skill, talent. 2 prowess in
nate, happy, lucky, opportune, battle, boldness, bravery, courage,
timely. daring, doughtiness, gallantry, hero-
ism, mettle, spirit, valour.
provincial adj 1 local, regional. Opp
n a t io n a l . 2 [derog] backward, boorish, prowl vb creep, lurk, roam, rove,
bucolic, insular, narrow-minded, skulk, slink, sneak, steal. > w a l k .
parochial, rural, rustic, small- proximity n 1 closeness, nearness,
minded, uncultivated, uncultured, propinquity. 2 locality, neighbour-
unsophisticated. Opp c o s mo po l it a n . hood, vicinity.
provisional adj conditional, interim, prudent adj advisable, careful, cau-
stopgap, temporaiy, tentative, trans- tious, circumspect, discreet, economi-
itional. Opp DEFINITIVE, PERMANENT. cal, far-sighted, frugal, judicious,
provisions plur n food, foodstuff, politic, proper, provident, reasonable,
groceries, provender, rations, sagacious, sage, sensible, shrewd,
requirements, stocks, stores, sub- thoughtful, thrifty, vigilant, watch-
sistence, supplies, old use victuals. ful, wise. Opp u n w is e .
proviso n condition, exception, lim- prudish adj decorous, easily shocked,
itation, provision, qualification, illiberal, intolerant, narrow-minded,
requirement, restriction, rider, stipu- old-fashioned, inf old-maidish, prig-
lation. gish, prim, inf prissy, proper, purit-
 323
Pulp
anical, rigid, shockable, strait-laced, publicity n 1 attention, inf ballyhoo,
Strict. Opp BROAD-MINDED. fame, inf hype, limelight, notoriety.
prune vb clip, cut back, lop, pare 2 advertising, marketing, promotion.
down, trim. > c u t . > ADVERTISEMENT.
pry vb be curious, be inquisitive, be publicize vb advertise, si hype, inf
nosy, delve, inf ferret, inquire, inter- plug, promote, old use puff. > pu b l is h .
fere, intrude, investigate, meddle, inf
nose about, peer, poke about, inf publish vb 1 bring out, circulate,
poke your nose in, search, inf snoop, issue, make available, print, produce,
inf stick your nose in. prying > in q u is - put on sale, release. 2 publish secrets.
it iv e . advertise, announce, break the news
about, broadcast, communicate,
pseudonym n alias, assumed name, declare, disclose, disseminate,
false name, incognito, nickname, Fr divulge, issue a statement about, inf
nom de plume, pen-name, sobriquet, leak, make known, make public, pro-
stage name. claim, promulgate, publicize, inf put
psychic adj clairvoyant, extrasens- about, report, reveal, spread.
ory, magical, mental, metaphysical,
mystic, occult, preternatural, psych- pucker vb compress, contract,
ical, spiritual, supernatural, tele- crease, crinkle, draw together, purse,
pathic. • n astrologer, clairvoyant, screw up, squeeze, tighten, wrinkle.
crystal-gazer, fortune-teller, medium, puerile adj babyish, boyish, childish,
mind-reader, spiritualist, telepathist, immature, infantile, juvenile. > s il l y .
psychological adj cerebral, emo-
puff n 1 blast, blow, breath, draught,
tional, mental, subconscious, sub-
flurry, gust, whiff, wind. 2 a puff of
jective, subliminal, unconscious. Opp smoke, cloud, wisp. • vb 1 blow,
PHYSIOLOGICAL.
breathe heavily, gasp, huff, pant,
pub n old use alehouse, bar, si boozer, wheeze. 2 puff at a cigar, inf drag,
cocktail lounge, old use hosteliy, inn, draw, inhale, pull, smoke, suck.
inf local, public house, saloon, tav- 3 sails puffed by the wind, balloon, bil-
ern, wine bar. low, distend, enlarge, inflate, rise,
puberty n adolescence, growing-up, swell.
juvenescence, pubescence, sexual pugnacious adj aggressive, antag-
maturity, inf teens. onistic, argumentative, bellicose,
public adj 1 accessible, available, belligerent, combative, contentious,
common, familiar, free, known, disputatious, excitable, fractious,
open, shared, unconcealed, unres- hostile, hottempered, litigious, mil-
tricted, visible, well-known. 2 public itant, unfriendly, warlike. > q u a r r e l -
support, civic, civil, collective, com- s o m e . Opp pe a c e a b l e .
munal, community, democratic,
general, majority, national, popular, pull vb 1 drag, draw, haul, lug, tow,
social, universal. 3 a public figure. trail. Opp pu s h . 2 jerk, pluck, rip, tug,
> PROMINENT. Opp PRIVATE. • n the wrench, inf yank. 3 pull a tooth.
public, citizens, the community, the extract, pull out, remove, take out.
country, the nation, people, the pull Off > DETACH, pull OUt > WITH-
populace, society, voters. DRAW. pull round > r e c o v e r , pull
someone’s leg t e a s e , pull through
publication n 1 appearance, issu- > r e c o v e r , pull together > c o o pe r -
ing, printing, production. > b o o k , a t e . pull up > h a l t .
m a g a z in e . 2 advertising, announce-
ment, broadcasting, declaration, pulp n mash, mush, paste, pap,
disclosure, dissemination, proclam- puree. • vb crush, liquidize, mash,
ation, promulgation, publicizing, pound, pulverize, puree, smash,
reporting. squash.
pulsate 324

pulsate vb beat, drum, oscillate, pal- tion of property, corporal punishment,

pitate, pound, pulse, quiver, rever- detention, excommunication, execution,
berate, throb, tick, vibrate. exile, fine, flogging, gaol, inf hiding,
pulse n beat, drumming, oscillation, imprisonment, jail, keelhauling, lashing,
pounding, pulsation, rhythm, throb, pillory, prison, probation, scourging,
ticking, vibration. spanking, the stocks, torture, whipping.
pump vb drain, draw off, empty, punitive adj disciplinary, penal,
force, raise, siphon, pump up blow retaliatory, retributive, revengeful,
up, fill, inflate. vindictive.
punch vb 1 beat, si biff, box, inf clout, puny adj diminutive, dwarf, feeble,
cuff, jab, poke, prod, pummel, slog, frail, sickly, stunted, under-
si slug, si sock, strike, thump. > h it . developed, undernourished, under-
2 > PIERCE. sized. > SMALL. Opp LARGE, STRONG.
punctual adj in good time, inf on pupil n apprentice, beginner, dis-
the dot, on time, prompt. Opp u n pu n c - ciple, follower, learner, novice,
t ual . protege(e), scholar, schoolboy,
punctuate vb 1 insert punctuation, schoolchild, schoolgirl, student, tiro.
point. 2punctuated by applause, break, puppet n doll, dummy, finger-
interrupt, intersperse, inf pepper. puppet, glove-puppet, hand-puppet,
punctuation n marks, points, stops. marionette, string-puppet.
n accent, apostrophe, asterisk, bracket, purchase n 1 acquisition, inf buy (a
caret, cedilla, colon, comma, dash, excla- good buy), investment. 2 grasp, grip,
mation mark, full stop, hyphen, question hold, leverage, support. • vb acquire,
mark, quotation marks, speech marks, buy, get, invest in, obtain, pay for,
semicolon. procure, secure.
puncture n blow-out, burst, burst pure adj 1 authentic, genuine, neat,
tyre, inf flat, flat tyre, hole, leak, real, solid, sterling, straight, unadul-
opening, perforation, pin-prick, rup- terated, unalloyed, undiluted. 2 pure
ture. • vb deflate, go through, let food, eatable, germ-free, hygienic,
down, penetrate, perforate, pierce, natural, pasteurized, uncontamin-
prick, rupture. ated, untainted, wholesome. 3 pure
pungent adj 1 aromatic, hot, pep- water, clean, clear, distilled, drink-
pery, piquant, seasoned, sharp, spicy, able, fresh, potable, sterile, unpol-
strong, tangy. 2 acid, acrid, astrin- luted. 4 pure in morals, blameless,
gent, caustic, inf chemically, harsh, chaste, decent, good, impeccable,
sour, stinging. 3 pungent criticism, bit- innocent, irreproachable, maidenly,
ing, bitter, incisive, mordant, sar- modest, moral, proper, sinless, stain-
castic, scathing, trenchant. less, virginal, virtuous. 5 pure genius.
punish vb castigate, chasten, chas- absolute, complete, downright, inf
tise, correct, discipline, exact retri- out-and-out, perfect, sheer, thor-
bution from, impose punishment on, ough, total, true, unmitigated,
inflict punishment on, inf make an unqualified, utter. 6 pure science.
example of, pay back, penalize, inf abstract, academic, conjectural, con-
rap over the knuckles, scold, inf teach ceptual, hypothetical, speculative,
someone a lesson. theoretical. Opp im pu r e , pr a c t ic a l .
punishment n chastisement, cor- purgative n aperient, cathartic,
rection, discipline, forfeit, imposi- enema, laxative, purge.
tion, inf just deserts, penalty, purge vb 1 clean out, cleanse, clear,
punitive measure, retribution, depurate, empty, purify, wash out.
revenge, sentence. □ banishment, beat- 2 purge your opponents, eject, elim-
ing, the birch, old use Borstal, the cane, inate, eradicate, expel, get rid of,
capital punishment, cashiering, confisca- liquidate, oust, remove, root out.
 325
putative
purify vb clarify, clean, cleanse, inquire into, investigate, quest after,
decontaminate, depurate, disinfect, search for, seek.
distil, filter, fumigate, make pure,
purge, refine, sanitize, sterilize. pursuit n 1 chase, chasing, follow-
ing, harrying, inf hue and cry, hunt,
puritan n fanatic, derog killjoy, hunting, pursuing, shadowing, stalk-
moralist, derog prude, zealot. ing, tracking down, trail. 2 leisure
puritanical adj ascetic, austere, pursuits, activity, employment,
moralistic, narrow-minded, pietistic, enthusiasm, hobby, interest, obses-
prim, proper, prudish, rigid, self- sion, occupation, pastime, pleasure,
denying, self-disciplined, severe, speciality, specialization.
stem, stiff-necked, strait-laced, strict, push vb 1 advance, drive, force,
temperate, unbending, uncom-
hustle, impel, jostle, move, nudge,
promising. Opp HEDONISTIC. poke, press, prod, propel, set in
purpose n 1 aim, ambition, aspira- motion, shove, thrust. 2 push a but-
tion, design, end, goal, hope, intent, ton. depress, press. 3 push into a space.
intention, motivation, motive, ob- compress, cram, crowd, crush, insert,
ject, objective, outcome, plan, point, jam, pack, put, ram, squash, squeeze.
rationale, result, target, wish. 4 push someone to act. browbeat, bully,
2 determination, devotion, drive, firm- coerce, compel, constrain, dragoon,
ness, persistence, resolution, resolve, encourage, force, hurry, importune,
steadfastness, tenacity, will, zeal. incite, induce, influence, inf lean on,
3 purpose of a tool, advantage, appli- motivate, nag, persuade, pressurize,
cation, benefit, good (what’s the good prompt, put pressure on, spur, stimu-
of it?), point, practicality, use, use- late, urge. 5 push a new product, adver-
fulness, utility, value. • vb > in t e n d . tise, boost, make known, market, inf
plug, promote, publicize. Opp pu l l .
purposeful adj calculated, decided,
push around BULLY, push off
decisive, deliberate, determined,
DEPART, push on > ADVANCE.
devoted, firm, persistent, positive,
resolute, steadfast, derog stubborn, put vb 1 arrange, assign, commit,
tenacious, unwavering, wilful, zeal- consign, deploy, deposit, dispose, fix,
ous. > INTENTIONAL. Opp HESITANT. hang, lay, leave, locate, park, place,
purposeless adj aimless, bootless, inf plonk, position, rest, set down,
empty, gratuitous, meaningless, settle, situate, stand, station. 2 put a
pointless, senseless, unnecessary, question, express, formulate, frame,
useless, vacuous, wanton. Opp me a n - phrase, say, state, utter, voice, word,
in g f u l , USEFUL.
write. 3 put a proposal, advance, bring
forward, offer, outline, present, pro-
purposely adv consciously, deliber- pose, submit, suggest, tender. 4 put
ately, intentionally, knowingly, on blame on someone, attach, attribute,
purpose, wilfully. cast, fix, impose, inflict, lay, inf pin.
purse n bag, handbag, moneybag, put across COMMUNICATE, put back
pocketbook, pouch, wallet. > r e t u r n , put by > s a v e , put down >
KILL, SUPPRESS, put in > INSERT, INSTALL,
pursue vb 1 chase, follow, go after, put off > POSTPONE, put out > EJECT,
go in pursuit of, harry, hound, hunt, EXTINGUISH, put over > COMMUNICATE,
keep up with, run after, shadow, put right r e pa ir , put someone up
stalk, inf tail, trace, track down, trail. > ACCOMMODATE, put up > RAISE, put
2 aim for, aspire to, be committed io, your foot down in s is t , put your
carry on, conduct, continue, dedicate foot in it > BLUNDER.
yourself to, engage in, follow up, inf
go for, persevere in, persist in, pro- putative adj alleged, assumed,
ceed with, prosecute, inf stick with, conjectural, presumed, reputed,
strive for, try for. 3 pursue truth. rumoured, supposed, suppositious.
putrefy 326
putrefy vb decay, decompose, go bad, stump, in/stymie, worry, puzzle out
go off, moulder, rot, spoil. > s o l v e , puzzle over > c o n s id e r .
putrid adj bad, corrupt, decaying, puzzling adj ambiguous, baffling,
decomposing, fetid, foul, mouldy, bewildering, confusing, cryptic, enig-
putrefying, rotten, rotting, spoilt. matic, impenetrable, inexplicable,
puzzle n inf brain-teaser, conun- insoluble, inf mind-boggling, mys-
drum, difficulty, dilemma, enigma, terious, mystifying, perplexing,
mysteiy, paradox, in/poser, problem, strange, unaccountable, unanswer-
quandaiy, question, riddle. • vb able, unfathomable, worrying. Opp
baffle, bewilder, confound, confuse, STRAIGHTFORWARD.
in/floor, in/flummox, mystify, non- pygmy adj dwarf, lilliputian, midget,
plus, perplex, set thinking, in/ tiny. > s ma l l .
quadrangle n cloisters, courtyard,
Q. qualify vb 1 authorize, empower,
enclosure, inf quad, yard. entitle, equip, fit, make eligible, per-
quagmire n bog, fen, marsh, mire, mit, sanction. 2 become eligible, get
morass, mud, quicksand, old use through, inf make the grade, meet
slough, swamp. requirements, pass. 3 qualify your
praise, abate, lessen, limit, mit-
quail vb back away, be apprehensive,
igate, moderate, modulate, restrain,
blench, cower, cringe, falter, flinch, restrict, soften, temper, weaken.
quake, recoil, show fear, shrink,
tremble, wince. quality n 1 calibre, class, condition,
excellence, grade, rank, sort, stand-
quaint adj antiquated, antique, ard, status, value, worth. 2 personal
charming, curious, eccentric, fanci- qualities, attribute, characteristic, dis-
ful, fantastic, odd, offbeat, old- tinction, feature, mark, peculiarity,
fashioned, old-world, outlandish, property, trait.
peculiar, picturesque, strange, inf
quandary n inf catch-22, inf cleft
twee, unconventional, unexpected,
stick, confusion, difficulty, dilemma,
unfamiliar, unusual, whimsical.
perplexity, plight, predicament,
quake vb convulse, heave, move, uncertainty.
quaver, quiver, rock, shake, shiver,
quantity n aggregate, amount, bulk,
shudder, stagger, sway, tremble, consignment, dosage, dose, expanse,
vibrate, wobble. extent, length, load, lot, magnitude,
qualification n 1 ability, aptitude, mass, measurement, number, part,
capability, capacity, certification, portion, proportion, quantum, sum,
competence, eligibility, experience, total, volume, weight. > me a s u r e .
fitness, inf know-how, knowledge, quarrel n altercation, argument,
proficiency, quality, skill, suitability, bickering, clash, conflict, confronta-
training. 2 certificate, degree, tion, contention, controversy, debate,
diploma, doctorate, first degree, Mas- difference, disagreement, discord,
ter’s degree, matriculation. 3 agree disharmony, dispute, dissension,
without qualification, caveat, con- division, feud, in/hassle, misunder-
dition, exception, limitation, mo- standing, row, in/ructions, rupture,
dification, proviso, reservation, inf scene, schism, in/slanging match,
restriction. split, squabble, strife, inf tiff,
qualified adj 1 able, capable, certi- vendetta, wrangle. • vb argue, inf be
ficated, competent, equipped, ex- at loggerheads, infbe at odds, bicker,
perienced, expert, fit, practised, clash, conflict, contend, inf cross
professional, proficient, skilled, swords, differ, disagree, dispute, dis-
trained, well-informed. Opp u n s k il l e d . sent, in/fall out, feud, haggle, mis-
2 qualified applicants, appropriate, understand one another, inf row,
eligible, suitable. 3 qualified praise. squabble, wrangle. > f ig h t , quarrel
cautious, conditional, equivocal, with > DISPUTE.
guarded, half-hearted, limited, quarrelsome adj aggressive, angry,
modified, provisional, reserved, argumentative, bad-tempered, can-
restricted. Opp u n c o n d it io n a l . tankerous, choleric, contentious,
quarry 328

contrary, cross, defiant, disagreeable, calm, mitigate, moderate, mollify,

dyspeptic, explosive, fractious, impa- pacify, soothe, tranquillize.
tient, irascible, irritable, peevish, quench vb 1 allay, appease, cool,
petulant, querulous, quick-tempered, sate, satisfy, slake. 2 quench a fire.
inf stroppy, testy, truculent, un- damp down, douse, extinguish, put
friendly, volatile > pu g n a c io u s . Opp out, smother, snuff out, stifle, sup-
PEACEABLE. press.
quarry n 1 game, kill, object, prey, quest n crusade, expedition, explora-
victim. 2 excavation, mine, pit, work- tion, hunt, mission, pilgrimage,
ing. • vb dig out, excavate, extract, pursuit, search, voyage of discovery.
mine. • vb quest after > s e e k .
quarter n area, district, division, question n 1 inf brain-teaser, conun-
locality, neighbourhood, part, region, drum, demand, enquiry, inquiry, inf
section, sector, territory, vicinity, poser, query, request, riddle. 2 an
zone. • vb accommodate, billet, unresolved question, argument, con-
board, house, lodge, inf put up, shel- troversy, debate, difficulty, dispute,
ter, station, quarters abode, accom- doubt, misgiving, mystery, objection,
modation, barracks, billet, domicile, problem, puzzle, uncertainty. • vb
dwelling-place, home, housing, liv- 1 ask, catechize, cross-examine,
ing quarters, lodgings, residence, crossquestion, debrief, enquire of,
rooms; shelter. examine, inf grill, inquire of, inter-
quash vb 1 abolish, annul, cancel, rogate, interview, probe, inf pump,
invalidate, overrule, overthrow, quiz. 2 question a decision, argue over,
reject, rescind, reverse, revoke. 2 > be sceptical about, call into question,
QUELL. cast doubt upon, challenge, dispute,
quaver vb falter, fluctuate, oscillate, doubt, enquire about, impugn,
pulsate, quake, quiver, shake, shiver, inquire about, object to, oppose,
shudder, tremble, vibrate, waver. quarrel with, query.
quay n berth, dock, harbour, jetty, questionable adj arguable, border-
landing-stage, pier, wharf. line, debatable, disputable, doubtful,
dubious, inf iffy, moot, problemat-
queasy adj bilious, inf green, inf ical, inf shady (customer), suspect,
groggy, nauseated, nauseous, inf suspicious, uncertain, unclear, un-
poorly, inf queer, sick, unwell. > il l . provable, unreliable.
queer adj 1 aberrant, abnormal,
questionnaire n catechism, opin-
anomalous, atypical, bizarre, curi- ion poll, question sheet, quiz, sur-
ous, different, eerie, exceptional, vey, test.
extraordinary, inf fishy, freakish, inf
funny, incongruous, inexplicable, queue n chaiin, column, concatena-
irrational, mysterious, odd, offbeat, tion, inf crocodile, file, line, line-up,
outlandish, peculiar, puzzling, procession, row, string, succession,
quaint, remarkable, inf rum, sin- tail-back, train. • vb fall in, form a
gular, strange, unaccountable, queue, fine up, wait in a queue.
uncanny, uncommon, unconven- quibble n > o b je c t io n . • vb inf bandy
tional, unexpected, unnatural, words, be evasive, carp, cavil, equivoc-
unorthodox, unusual, weird. 2 inf ate, inf nit-pick, object, pettifog, inf
cranky, deviant, eccentric, question- split hairs, wrangle.
able, inf shady (customer), inf shifty, quick adj 1 breakneck, brisk, expedi-
suspect, suspicious. > m a d . Opp n o r - tious, express, fast, old use fleet, head-
ma l . 3 > ILL. 4 > HOMOSEXUAL.
long, high-speed, inf nippy, preci-
quell vb 1 crush, overcome, put pitate, rapid, inf smart (pace), inf
down, quash, repress, subdue, sup- spanking, speedy, swift. 2 a quick
press. 2 quell fears, allay, alleviate, reaction, adroit, agile, animated,
329 quote
brisk, deft, dexterous, energetic, sake, go away from, leave, walk out
lively, nimble, spirited, spiy, vigor- (on), withdraw. 2 abdicate, discon-
ous. 3 a quick response, abrupt, early, tinue, drop, give up, leave, inf pack it
hasty, hurried, immediate, instant, in, relinquish, renounce, repudiate,
instantaneous, perfunctory, precipit- resign from, retire from, withdraw
ate, prompt, punctual, ready, sud- from. 3 [in/] Quit pushing! cease, desist
den, summaiy, unhesitating. 4 a from, discontinue, leave off, stop.
quick mind, acute, alert, apt, astute, quite adv [NB: the two senses are
bright, clever, intelligent, perceptive, almost opposite.] 1 Yes, I’ve quite
quick-witted, sharp, shrewd, smart. finished, absolutely, altogether,
Opp s l o w . 5 a quick rest, brief, fleeting, completely, entirely, perfectly, thor-
momentaiy, passing, perfunctoiy, oughly, totally, unreservedly, utterly,
short, short-lived, temporary, trans- wholly. 2 quite good, but not perfect.
itory. 6 [old use] the quick and the dead. comparatively, fairly, moderately, inf
> ALIVE. Opp SLOW. pretty, rather, relatively, somewhat,
quicken vb 1 accelerate, expedite, to some extent.
go faster, hasten, hurry, speed up.
quits adj equal, even, level, repaid,
2 > AROUSE.
revenged, square.
quiet adj 1 inaudible, noiseless,
silent, soundless. 2 quiet music. quiver vb flicker, fluctuate, flutter,
hushed, low, pianissimo, soft, It sotto oscillate, palpitate, pulsate, quake,
voce. 3 a quiet person, composed, con- quaver, shake, shiver, shudder, trem-
templative, contented, gentle, intro- ble, vibrate, wobble.
verted, meditative, meek, mild, quixotic adj fanciful, foolhardy, ide-
modest, peaceable, reserved, re- alistic, impracticable, impractical,
tiring, shy, taciturn, thoughtful, romantic, inf starry-eyed, unrealistic,
uncommunicative, unforthcoming, unrealizable, unselfish, Utopian,
unsociable, withdrawn. 4 a quiet life. visionary. Opp r e a l is t ic .
cloistered, sheltered, tranquil, unad- quiz n competition, exam, exam-
venturous, unexciting, untroubled. ination, questioning, questionnaire,
5 a quiet place, isolated, lonely, peace- quiz-game, test. • vb > q u e s t io n .
ful, private, secluded, sequestered,
undisturbed, unfrequented. 6 quiet quizzical adj amused, comical, curi-
weather, calm, motionless, placid, ous, intrigued, perplexed, puzzled,
restful, serene, still. Opp b u s y , n o is y , queer, questioning.
RESTLESS. quota n allocation, allowance, appor-
quieten vb 1 calm, compose, hush, tionment, assignment, inf cut, part,
lull, pacify, sedate, soothe, subdue, portion, proportion, ration, share.
tranquillize. 2 deaden, dull, muffle, quotation n 1 allusion, citation, inf
mute, reduce the volume of, silence, clip, cutting, excerpt, extract, pas-
soften, stifle, suppress, tone down. sage, piece, reference, selection.
quirk n aberration, caprice, crotchet, 2 estimate, price, tender, valuation.
eccentricity, idiosyncrasy, kink, odd- quote vb 1 cite, instance, mention,
ity, peculiarity, trick, whim. produce a quotation from, refer to,
quit vb 1 abandon, decamp from, repeat, reproduce. 2 quote a price, es-
depart from, desert, exit from, for- timate, tender.
rabble n crowd, gang, herd, Gk hoi radical adj 1 basic, cardinal, deep-
polloi, horde, mob, inf riffraff, seated, elementary, essential, fun-
swarm, throng. > g r o u p . damental, primary, principal,
race n 1 breed, clan, ethnic group, profound. 2 complete, comprehen-
family, folk, genus, kind, lineage, sive, drastic, entire, exhaustive, thor-
nation, people, species, stock, tribe, ough, thoroughgoing. 3 radical
variety. 2 chase, competition, con- politics, extreme, extremist, fanatical,
tention, contest, heat, rivalry. □ cross- far-reaching, revolutionary, derog
subversive. Opp mo d e r a t e , s u pe r f ic ia l .
country, greyhound race, horse-race,
hurdles,.'.marathon, motor-race, regatta, radio n CB, si ghettoblaster, portable,
relay, road-race, rowing, scramble, speed- receiver, set, inf transistor, transmit-
way, sprint, steeple-chase, stock-car race, ter, walkie-talkie, old use wireless. •
swimming, track event. • vb 1 I’ll race vb broadcast, send out, transmit.
you! compete with, contest with, rafter n beam, girder, joist.
have a race with, try to beat. 2 race rage n > a n g e r . • vb be angry, boil,
along, career, dash, inf fly, gallop, fume, go berserk, lose control, rave,
hasten, hurry, move fast, run, rush, inf see red, seethe, storm.
speed, sprint, inf tear, inf zip, inf ragged adj 1 chafed, frayed, in rib-
zoom. bons, old, patched, patchy, ravelled,
racetrack n cinder-track, circuit, rent, ripped, rough, rough-edged,
dog-track, lap, racecourse. shabby, shaggy, tattered, tatty,
racial adj ethnic, folk, genetic, threadbare, tom, unkempt, unrav-
national, tribal. elled, untidy, worn out. 2 ragged line.
denticulated, disorganized, erratic,
racism n bias, bigotry, chauvinism,
irregular, jagged, serrated, uneven,
discrimination, intolerance, preju- zigzag.
dice, racialism, xenophobia. □ anti-
Semitism, apartheid. rags plur n bits and pieces, cloths,
fragments, old clothes, remnants,
racist adj biased, bigoted, chauvinist,
ribbons, scraps, shreds, tatters.
discriminatory, intolerant, preju-
diced, racialist, xenophobic. □ anti- raid n assault, attack, blitz, foray,
Semitic. incursion, inroad, invasion, on-
slaught, sally, sortie, strike, surprise
rack n frame, framework, holder, attack, swoop. • vb 1 assault, attack,
scaffold, scaffolding, shelf, stand, descend on, invade, pounce on, rush,
support. • vb > TORTURE. storm, swoop down on. 2 loot,
radiant adj 1 beaming, bright, bril- maraud, pillage, plunder, ransack,
liant, effulgent, gleaming, glorious, rifle, rob, sack, steal from, strip.
glowing, incandescent, luminous, raider n attacker, brigand, invader,
phosphorescent, refulgent, shining. looter, marauder, outlaw, pillager,
2 The bride was radiant. > h a ppy . pirate, plunderer, ransacker, robber,
radiate vb beam, diffuse, emanate, rustler, thief.
emit, give off, gleam, glow, send out, railway n line, permanent way, Amer
shed, shine, spread, transmit. railroad, rails, track, a branch line,
 331
range
cable railway, funicular, light railway, ramble n hike, tramp, trek, walk.
main line, metro, mineral line, monorail, • vb 1 hike, range, roam, rove,
mountain railway, narrow gauge, rack- tramp, trek, stroll, wander. > w a l k .
and-pinion, rapid transit system, siding, 2 digress, drift, inf lose the thread,
standard gauge, tramway, tube, under- maunder, inf rabbit on, inf rattle on,
ground. t> TRAIN. talk aimlessly, wander, infwitter on.
rain n cloudburst, deluge, downpour, rambling adj 1 circuitous, indirect,
drizzle, precipitation, raindrops, labyrinthine, meandering, round-
rainfall, rainstorm, shower, squall. about, tortuous, twisting, wander-
• vb inf bucket down, drizzle, pelt, ing, winding, zigzag. Opp d ir e c t .
pour, inf rain cats and dogs, spit, 2 aimless, circumlocutory, confused,
teem. diffuse, digressive, disconnected,
discursive, disjointed, illogical,
rainy adj damp, drizzly, showery,
incoherent, jumbled, muddled,
wet. periphrastic, unstructured, verbose,
raise vb 1 elevate, heave up, hoist, wordy. Opp c o h e r e n t . 3 a rambling
hold up, jack up, lift, loft, pick up, house, asymmetrical, extensive, ir-
put up, rear. 2 raise prices, augment, regular, large, sprawling, straggling,
boost, increase, inflate, put up, inf straggly. Opp c o mpa c t .
up. 3 raise to a higher rank, exalt, pre- ramification n branch, byproduct,
fer, promote, upgrade. 4 raise a monu- complication, consequence, division,
ment. build, construct, create, erect, effect, extension, implication, off-
set up. 5 raise hopes, activate, arouse, shoot, result, subdivision, upshot.
awaken, build up, buoy up, encour-
age, engender, enlarge, excite, fo- ramp n acclivity, gradient, incline,
ment, foster, heighten, incite, kindle, rise, slope.
motivate, provoke, rouse, stimulate, rampage n frenzy, riot, tumult,
uplift. 6 raise animals, children, crops. uproar, vandalism, violence. • vb
breed, bring up, care for, cultivate, behave violently, go berserk, go wild,
educate, farm, grow, look after, nur- lose control, race about, run amok,
ture, produce, propagate, rear. 7 raise run riot, rush about, storm about,
money, amass, collect, get, make, on the rampage > w il d .
receive, solicit. 8 raise questions. ramshackle adj broken-down,
advance, bring up, broach, express, crumbling, decrepit, derelict, dilap-
instigate, introduce, mention, moot, idated, flimsy, jerry-built, rickety,
originate, pose, present, put forward, ruined, run-down, shaky, tottering,
suggest. Opp l o w e r , r e d u c e , raise tumbledown, unsafe, unstable,
from the dead > r e s u r r e c t , raise the unsteady. Opp s o l id .
alarm t> w a r n .
random adj accidental, adventitious,
rally n 1 assembly, inf demo, demon- aimless, arbitrary, casual, chance,
stration, gathering, march, mass fortuitous, haphazard, inf hit-or-miss,
meeting, protest. 2 t> c o m pe t it io n . indiscriminate, irregular, seren-
• vb 1 assemble, convene, get dipitous, stray, unconsidered, un-
together, marshal, muster, organize, planned, unpremeditated, unspecific,
round up, summon. 2 come unsystematic. Opp d e l ib e r a t e , s y s t e m -
together, reassemble, reform, a t ic .
regroup. 3 rally after illness. > r e c o v e r . range n 1 area, compass, distance,
ram vb 1 bump, butt, collide with, extent, field, gamut, limit, orbit,
crash into, slam into, smash into, radius, reach, scope, span, spectrum,
strike. > h it . 2 compress, cram, sphere, spread, sweep. 2 a wide range
crowd, crush, drive, force, jam, pack, of goods, diversity, selection, variety.
press, push, squash, squeeze, tamp 3 range of mountains, chain, file, line,
down, wedge. rank, row, series, string, tier. • vb
rank 332

1 differ, extend, fluctuate, go, reach, mischiefmaker, miscreant, ne’er-do-

run the gamut, spread, stretch, vary. well, rapscallion, rogue, inf scally-
2 > RANK. 3 > ROAM. wag, scamp, scoundrel, troublemaker,
rank adj 1 rank growth. > a b u n d a n t . villain, wastrel. > c r imin a l .
2 rank smell. t> s me l l in g . • n 1 col- rash adj careless, foolhardy, hare-
umn, file, formation, line, order, brained, hasty, headlong, head-
queue, row, series, tier. 2 birth, strong, heedless, hotheaded, hurried,
blood, caste, class, condition, degree, ill-advised, ill-considered, impetuous,
echelon, estate, grade, level, position, imprudent, impulsive, incautious,
standing, station, status, stratum, indiscreet, injudicious, madcap, pre-
title. • vb arrange, array, assort, cat- cipitate, reckless, risky, thoughtless,
egorize, class, classify, grade, gradu- unthinking, wild. Opp c a r e f u l . • n
ate, line up, order, organize, range, 1 efflorescence, eruption, spots. 2 a
rate, set out in order, sort. rash of thefts. > o u t b r e a k .
ransack vb 1 comb, explore, go rasp vb 1 abrade, file, grate, rub,
through, rake through, rummage scrape. 2 rasp orders, croak, screech,
through, scour, search, inf turn speak hoarsely. > s pe a k , rasping >
upside, down. 2 ransack a shop. HARSH.
despoilf loot, pillage, plunder, raid,
ravage, rob, sack, strip, wreck. rate n 1 gait, pace, speed, tempo,
velocity. 2 amount, charge, cost, fare,
ransom n payment, inf payoff, price,
fee, figure, payment, price, scale, tar-
redemption. • vb buy the release of,
deliver, redeem. iff, wage. • vb 1 appraise, assess,
class, classify, compute, consider,
rap vb 1 knock, strike, tap. > h it . 2 > estimate, evaluate, gauge, grade,
CRITICIZE. judge, measure, prize, put a price on,
rape n 1 assault, sexual attack. 2 > rank, reckon, regard, value, weigh.
pil l a g e . • vb assault, defile, deflower, 2 rate a prize, be worthy of, deserve,
dishonour, force yourself on, inf have merit. 3 > r e pr im a n d .
your way with, old use ravish, violate,
rather adv 1 fairly, moderately, inf
rapid adj alacritous, breakneck, pretty, quite, relatively, slightly,
brisk, expeditious, express, fast, old somewhat. 2 would rather have tea
use fleet, hasty, headlong, high-speed, than coffee, more willingly, preferably,
hurried, immediate, impetuous, sooner.
instant, instantaneous, inf lightning,
inf nippy, precipitate, prompt, quick, ratify vb approve, authorize, confirm,
smooth, speedy, swift, unchecked, endorse, sanction, sign, validate, ver-
uninterrupted. Opp s l o w . ify-
rapids plur n cataract, current, rating n classification, evaluation,
waterfall, white water. grade, grading, mark, order, placing,
rapture n bliss, delight, ecstasy, ela- ranking.
tion, euphoria, exaltation, happiness, ratio n balance, correlation, corres-
joy, pleasure, thrill, transport. pondence, fraction, percentage, pro-
rare adj abnormal, atypical, curious, portion, relationship.
exceptional, extraordinary, inf few ration n allocation, allotment,
and far between, infrequent, irre- allowance, amount, helping, meas-
placeable, limited, occasional, odd, ure, percentage, portion, quota,
out of the ordinary, peculiar, scarce, share. • vb allocate, allot, apportion,
singular, special, strange, surprising, conserve, control, distribute fairly,
uncommon, unfamiliar, unusual. dole out, give out, limit, parcel out,
Opp COMMON. restrict, share equally, rations food,
rascal n blackguard, old use bounder, necessaries, necessities, provisions,
devil, good-fomothing, imp, knave, stores, supplies.
 333 readily
rational adj balanced, clear-headed, 4 raw skin, bloody, chafed, grazed, in-
commonsense, enlightened, intelli- flamed, painful, red, rough, scraped,
gent, judicious, logical, lucid, scratched, sensitive, sore, tender,
normal, ratiocinative, reasonable, vulnerable. 5 raw wind. > c o l d .
reasoned, reasoning, sane, sensible, ray n 1 bar, beam, laser, pencil, shaft,
sound, thoughtful, wise. Opp ir r a - streak, stream. 2 a ray of hope, flicker,
t io n a l . gleam, glimmer, hint, indication,
rationale n argument, case, cause, scintilla, sign, trace.
excuse, explanation, grounds, justi- raze vb bulldoze, demolish, destroy,
fication, logical basis, principle, flatten, level, tear down.
reason, reasoning, theory, vindica-
razor n □ cut-throat razor, disposable
tion.
razor, electric razor, safety razor.
rationalize vb 1 account for, be
reach n compass, distance, orbit,
rational about, elucidate, excuse,
range, scope, sphere. • vb 1 achieve,
explain, justify, make rational, pro-
arrive at, attain, come to, get hold of,
vide a rationale for, ratiocinate,
get to, go as far as, grasp, inf make,
think through, vindicate. 2 > r e o r -
take, touch. 2 reach for the salt, put
g a n iz e .
out your hand, stretch, try to get.
rattle vb 1 clatter, vibrate. 2 agitate, 3 reach me by phone, communicate
jar, infjiggle about, joggle, jolt, shake with, contact, get in touch with,
about. 3 [inf] rattled him by booing. reach out > e x t e n d .
alarm, discomfit, discompose, dis- react vb act, answer, behave, con-
concert, disturb, fluster, frighten, duct yourself, reciprocate, reply,
make nervous, put off, unnerve, respond, retaliate, retort, take
upset, wony. rattle off > r e c it e , rat- revenge, react to > c o u n t e r .
tle on > RAMBLE, TALK.
reaction n answer, backlash, inf
raucous adj ear-splitting, harsh, come-back, counter, countermove,
husky, grating, jarring, noisy, rasp- effect, feedback, parry, reciprocation,
ing, rough, screeching, shrill, reflex, rejoinder, reply, reprisal,
squawking, strident. response, retaliation, retort, revenge,
ravage vb damage, despoil, destroy, riposte.
devastate, lay waste, loot, pillage, reactionary adj conservative,
plunder, raid, ransack, ruin, sack, die-hard, old-fashioned, rightist,
spoil, wreak havoc on, wreck. right-wing, inf stick-in-the-mud, tradi-
rave vb 1 be angry, fulminate, fume, tionalist, unprogressive. Opp pr o g r e s -
rage, rant, roar, storm, thunder. 2 be s iv e .
enthusiastic, enthuse, inf go into rap- read vb 1 devour, inf dip into, glance
tures, inf gush, rhapsodize. at, interpret, look over, peruse, pore
ravenous adj famished, hungry, over, review, scan, skim, study.
insatiable, ravening, starved, starv- 2 can’t read the handwriting, decipher,
ing, voracious. > g r e e d y . decode, interpret, make out, under-
ravish vb 1 bewitch, captivate, cap- stand.
ture, charm, delight, enchant, readable adj 1 absorbing, compuls-
entrance, spellbind, transport. 2 > ive, easy, engaging, enjoyable, en-
r a pe , ravishing > b e a u t if u l . tertaining, gripping, interesting,
raw adj 1 fresh, rare (steak), un- stimulating, well-written. Opp b o r in g .
cooked, underdone, unpre-pared, wet 2 clear, comprehensible, decipher-
(fish). 2 raw materials, crude, natural, able, distinct, intelligible, legible,
unprocessed, unrefined, untreated. neat, plain, understandable. Opp
3 raw recruits, inf green, ignorant, il l e g ib l e .
immature, inexperienced, innocent, readily adv cheerfully, eagerly, easily,
new, unseasoned, untrained, untried. effortlessly, freely, gladly, happily,
ready 334

promptly, quickly, ungrudgingly, reality n actuality, authenticity, cer-

unhesitatingly, voluntarily, willingly. tainty, empirical knowledge, experi-
ence, fact, life, inf nittygritty, real
ready adj 1 accessible, inf all set, life, the real world, truth, verity. Opp
arranged, at hand, available, com- FANTASY.
plete, convenient, done, finalized,
finished, fit, obtainable, prepared, realize vb 1 accept, appreciate,
primed, ripe, set, set up, waiting. apprehend, be aware of, become con-
2 ready to help, agreeable, consent- scious of, inf catch on to, compre-
ing, content, disposed, eager, hend, conceive of, inf cotton on to,
equipped, inf game, glad, inclined, in grasp, know, perceive, recognize, see,
the mood, keen, inf keyed up, liable, sense, inf twig, understand, inf wake
likely, minded, of a mind, open, up to. 2 realize an ambition, accom-
organized, pleased, poised, predis- plish, achieve, bring about, complete,
posed, primed, inf psyched up, raring effect, effectuate, fulfil, implement,
(to go), trained, willing. 3 ready wit. make a reality of, obtain, perform,
acute, adroit, alert, apt, facile, imme- put into effect. 3 realize a price, inf
diate, prompt, quick, quick-witted, bring in, inf clear, earn, fetch, make,
rapid, sharp, smart, speedy. Opp s l o w , net, obtain, produce.
UNPREPARED. realm n countiy, domain, empire,
kingdom, monarchy, principality.
real adj 1 actual, authentic, certain,
corporeal, everyday, existing, factual, reap vb 1 cut, garner, gather in,
genuine, material, natural, ordinary, glean, harvest, mow. 2 reap a reward.
palpable, physical, pure, realistic, acquire, bring in, collect, get, obtain,
tangible, visible. 2 authenticated, Lat receive, win.
bona fide, legal, legitimate, official, rear adj back, end, hind, hinder,
valid, verifiable. 3 real friends, depend- hindmost, last, rearmost. Opp f r o n t .
able, positive, reliable, sound, true, • n 1 back, end, stem (of ship), tail-
trustworthy, worthy. 4 real grief. end. 21> b u t t o c k s . • vb 1 breed, bring
earnest, heartfelt, honest, sincere, up, care for, cultivate, educate, feed,
truthful, unaffected, undoubted, look after, nurse, nurture, produce,
unfeigned, unquestionable. Opp f a l s e . raise, train. 2 rear your head, elevate,
realism n 1 authenticity, fidelity,
hold up, lift, raise, uplift. 3 > b u il d .
naturalism, verisimilitude. 2 realism rearrange vb change round, re-
in business, clear-sightedness, com- group, reorganize, switch round,
mon sense, objectivity, practicality, swop round, transpose. > c h a n g e .
pragmatism. rearrangement n anagram, reor-
realistic adj 1 businesslike, clear- ganization,, transposition. > c h a n g e .
sighted, commonsense, down-to- reason n 1 apology, argument, case,
earth, feasible, hardheaded, inf cause, defence, excuse, explanation,
hard-nosed, levelheaded, logical, grounds, incentive, justification,
matter-of-fact, inf no-nonsense, motive, occasion, pretext, rationale,
objective, possible, practicable, prac- vindication. 2 brains, common sense,
tical, pragmatic, rational, sensible, inf gumption, intelligence, judge-
tough, unemotional, unsentimental, ment, logic, mind, inf nous, perspi-
viable, workable. 2 realistic pictures. cacity, rationality, reasonableness,
authentic, convincing, faithful, sanity, sense, understanding, wis-
graphic, lifelike, natural, recogniz- dom, wit. > r e a s o n in g . 3 reason for liv-
able, representational, true-to-life, ing. aim, goal, intention, motivation,
truthful, vivid. 3 realistic prices. motive, object, objective, point, pur-
acceptable, adequate, fair, genuine, pose, spur, stimulus. • vb 1 act ration-
justifiable, moderate, reasonable. Opp ally, calculate, cerebrate, conclude,
UNREALISTIC. consider, deduce, estimate, figure
 335
recent
out, hypothesize, infer, intellectual- gent, intractable, malcontent, muti-
ize, judge, inf put two and two nous, obstinate, quarrelsome, rebel,
together, ratiocinate, resolve, theor- recalcitrant, refractory, resistant,
ize, think, use your head, work out. revolting, revolutionary, seditious,
2 1 reasoned with her. argue, debate, uncontrollable, ungovernable, un-
discuss, expostulate, remonstrate. manageable, unruly, wild. Opp o b e d i -
reasonable adj 1 calm, helpful, en t .
honest, intelligent, rational, real- rebirth n reawakening, regeneration,
istic, sane, sensible, sincere, sober, renaissance, renewal, resurgence,
thinking, thoughtful, unemotional, resurrection, return, revival.
wise. 2 reasonable argument, arguable, rebound vb inf backfire, inf
believable, credible, defensible, jus- boomerang, bounce, misfire, recoil,
tifiable, logical, plausible, practical, ricochet, spring back.
reasoned, sound, tenable, viable,
rebuff n inf brush-off, check, dis-
well-thought-out. 3 reasonable prices.
acceptable, appropriate, average, couragement, refusal, rejection,
cheap, competitive, conservative, slight, snub. • vb cold-shoulder,
fair, inexpensive, moderate, ordin- decline, discourage, refuse, reject,
ary, proper, right, suitable, tolerable, repulse, slight, snub, spurn, turn
down.
unexceptionable. Opp ir r a t io n a l .
rebuild n reassemble, reconstruct,
reasoning n analysis, argument,
case, derog casuistry, cerebration, recreate, redevelop, refashion, regen-
deduction, dialectic, hypothesis, line erate, remake. t> r e c o n d it io n .
of thought, logic, proof, rationaliza- rebuke vb admonish, castigate, cen-
tion, derog sophistry, theorizing, sure, chide, reprehend, reproach,
thinking. reprove, scold, upbraid. > r e pr ima n d .
reassure vb assure, bolster, buoy up, recall vb 1 bring back, call in, sum-
calm, cheer, comfort, encourage, give mon, withdraw. 2 t> r e me mb e r .
confidence to, hearten, inf set some- recede vb abate, decline, dwindle,
one’s mind at rest, support, uplift. ebb, fall back, go back, lessen,
Opp a l a r m , t h r e a t e n , reassuring t> regress, retire, retreat, return, shrink
SOOTHING, SUPPORTIVE. back, sink, slacken, subside, wane,
rebel adj t> r e b e l l io u s . • n anarchist, withdraw.
apostate, dissenter, freedom fighter, receipt n 1 account, acknowledge-
heretic, iconoclast, insurgent, mal- ment, bill, proof of purchase, sales
content, maverick, mutineer, non- slip, ticket. 2 receipt of goods, accept-
conformist, recusant, resistance ance, delivery, reception, receipts
fighter, revolutionary, schismatic. • gains, gate, income, proceeds, prof-
vb be a rebel, disobey, dissent, fight, its, return, takings.
inf kick over the traces, mutiny, receive vb 1 accept, acquire, be
refuse to obey, revolt, rise up, inf run given, be paid, be sent, collect, come
riot, inf take a stand. Opp c o n f o r m . by, come into, derive, earn, gain, get,
rebel against d efy . gross, inherit, make, net, obtain,
rebellion n contumacy, defiance, dis- take. 2 receive an injury, bear, be sub-
obedience, insubordination, in- jected to, endure, experience, meet
surgency, insurrection, mutiny, with, suffer, sustain, undergo.
rebelliousness, resistance, revolt, rev- 3 receive visitors, accommodate, admit,
olution, rising, schism, sedition, entertain, greet, let in, meet, show
uprising. in, welcome. Opp g iv e .
rebellious adj inf bolshie, break- recent adj brand-new, contempor-
away, contumacious, defiant, diffi- ary, current, fresh, just out, latest,
cult, disaffected, disloyal, disobedient, modem, new, novel, present-day, up-
incorrigible, insubordinate, insur- to-date, young. Opp o l d .
reception 336

reception n 1 greeting, response, ate, estimate, evaluate, figure out,

welcome. 2 t> pa r t y . gauge, number, tally, total, value,
receptive adj amenable, favourable, work out. 2 t> THINK.
flexible, interested, open, open- reclaim vb 1 get back, inf put in for,
minded, responsive, susceptible, recapture, recover, regain. 2 reclaim
sympathetic, tractable, welcoming, derelict land, make usable, redeem,
well-disposed. Opp r e s is t a n t . regenerate, reinstate, rescue, restore,
recess n 1 alcove, apse, bay, cavity, salvage, save.
comer, cranny, hollow, indentation, recline vb lean back, fie, loll, lounge,
niche, nook. 2 adjournment, break, repose, rest, sprawl, stretch out.
inf breather, breathing-space, inter- recluse n anchoress, anchorite, her-
lude, intermission, interval, respite, mit, loner, monk, nun, solitaiy.
rest, time off.
recognizable adj detectable, dis-
recession n decline, depression,
tinctive, distinguishable, identifiable,
downturn, slump. known, noticeable, perceptible,
recipe n directions, formula, instruc- undisguised, unmistakable, visible.
tions, method, plan, prescription,
recognize vb 1 detect, diagnose, dis-
procedure, technique.
cern, distinguish, identify, know,
reciprocal adj corresponding, name, notice, perceive, pick out,
exchanged, joint, mutual, requited, place (can’t place him), inf put a name
returned, shared. to, recall, recollect, remember, see,
reciprocate vb exchange, give the spot. -2 recognize your faults, accept,
same in return, match, repay, acknowledge, admit to, appreciate,
requite, return. be aware of, concede, confess, grant,
recital n 1 concert, performance,
realize, understand. 3 recognize some-
programme. 2 recital of events. one’s rights, approve of, inf back,
account, description, narration, nar- endorse, legitimize, ratify, sanction,
rative, recounting, rehearsal, rela- support, validate.
tion, repetition, story, telling. t> recoil vb blench, draw back, falter,
RECITATION. flinch, jerk back, jump, quail, shrink,
recitation n declaiming, declama- shy away, start, wince. t> r e b o u n d .
tion, delivery, monologue, narration, recollect vb hark back to, recall,
performance, presentation, reading, reminisce about, summon up, think
old use rendition, speaking, telling. back to. t> REMEMBER.
recite vb articulate, declaim, deliver, recommend vb 1 advise, advocate,
narrate, perform, present, quote, inf counsel, exhort, prescribe, pro-
rattle off, recount, reel off, rehearse, pose, put forward, suggest, urge.
relate, repeat, speak, tell. 2 applaud, approve of, inf back, com-
reckless adj 1 brash, careless, inf mend, favour, inf plug, praise, inf
crazy, daredevil, inf devil-maycare, push, inf put in a good word for,
foolhardy, harebrained, inf harum- speak well of, support, vouch for. t>
scarum, hasty, heedless, impetuous, ADVERTISE.
imprudent, impulsive, inattentive, recommendation n advice, ad-
incautious, indiscreet, injudicious, vocacy, approbation, approval, inf
irresponsible, inf mad, madcap, neg- backing, commendation, counsel,
ligent, rash, thoughtless, uncon- favourable mention, reference, seal
sidered, unwise, wild. Opp c a r e f u l . of approval, support, testimonial.
2 reckless criminals, dangerous, des-
reconcile vb bring together, old use
perate, hardened, violent.
conciliate, harmonize, make friendly
reckon vb 1 add up, appraise, assess, again, placate, reunite, settle differ-
calculate, compute, count, enumer- ences between, be reconciled to
 337
red
accept, adjust to, resign yourself to, get better, heal, improve, mend, inf
submit to. pull round, inf pull through, rally,
recondition vb make good, over- recuperate, regain your strength,
haul, rebuild, renew, renovate, revive, survive, inf take a turn for the
repair, restore. better.
reconnaissance n examination, recovery n 1 recapture, reclama-
exploration, inspection, investiga- tion, repossession, restoration, re-
tion, observation, inf recce, recon- trieval, salvage, salvaging. 2 recovery
noitring, scouting, spying, survey. from illness, advance, convalescence,
reconnoitre vb inf case, inf check cure, deliverance, healing, improve-
out, examine, explore, gather intel- ment, progress, rally, recuperation,
ligence (about), inspect, investigate, revival, upturn.
patrol, scout, scrutinize, spy, survey, recreation n amusement, distrac-
si suss out. tion, diversion, enjoyment, enter-
reconsider vb be converted, change tainment, fun, games, hobby, leisure,
your mind, come round, reappraise, pastime, play, pleasure, refreshment,
reassess, re-examine, rethink, review relaxation, sport.
your position, think better of. recrimination n accusation, inf
reconstruct vb act out, mock up, come-back, counter-attack, counter-
recreate, rerun. > r e b u il d . charge, reprisal, retaliation, retort.
record n 1 account, annals, archives, recruit n apprentice, beginner, con-
catalogue, chronicle, diary, docu- script, inf greenhorn, initiate,
mentation, dossier, file, journal, log, learner, neophyte, inf new boy, new
memorandum, minutes, narrative, girl, novice, tiro, trainee. Opp v e t e r a n .
note, register, report, transactions. • vb advertise for, conscript, draft in,
2 best performance, best time. 3 > engage, enlist, enrol, old use impress,
r e c o r d in g . • vb 1 chronicle, docu- mobilize, muster, register, sign on,
ment, enter, inscribe, list, log, sign up, take on.
minute, note, put down, register, set rectify vb amend, correct, cure, inf
down, take down, transcribe, write fix, make good, put right, repair,
down. 2 record on tape, keep, preserve, revise.
tape, tape-record, video. recumbent adj flat, flat on your
recording n performance, release. back, horizontal, lying down, prone,
□ album, audio-tape, cassette, CD, com- reclining, stretched out, supine. Opp
pact disc, digital recording, disc, long- UPRIGHT.
playing record, LP, mono recording,
recuperate vb convalesce, get bet-
record, single, stereo recording, tape, ter, heal, improve, mend, rally,
tape-recording, tele-recording, video,
regain strength, revive. > r e c o v e r .
video-cassette, video disc, videotape.
recur vb be repeated, come back
record-player n CD player, gramo-
again, happen again, persist, re-
phone, midi system, old use phono-
appear, repeat, return.
graph, record deck, turntable.
recurrent adj chronic, cyclical, fre-
recount vb communicate, describe,
detail, impart, narrate, recite, relate, quent, intermittent, iterative, peri-
report, tell, unfold. odic, persistent, recurring, regular,
repeated, repetitive, returning. >
recover vb 1 find, get back, get com- CONTINUAL.
pensation for, make good, make up
for, recapture, reclaim, recoup, recycle vb reclaim, recover, retrieve,
regain, repossess, restore, retrieve, reuse, salvage, use again.
salvage, trace, track down, win back. red adj bloodshot, blushing, embar-
2 inf be on the mend, come round, rassed, fiery, flaming, florid, flushed,
convalesce, inf get back on your feet, glowing, inflamed, rosy, rubicund,
redden 338

ruddy, a auburn, blood-red, brick-red, stumble, sway, totter, waver, whirl,

cardinal, carmine, carroty, cerise, cherry, wobble, reel off > r e c it e .
chestnut, crimson, damask, flame- refer vb refer to 1 allude to, bring
coloured, foxy, magenta, maroon, orange, up, cite, comment on, draw atten-
pink, rose, roseate, ruby, scarlet, titian, tion to, make reference to, mention,
vermilion, wine-coloured, red herring > name, point to, quote, speak of, spec-
DECOY. ify, touch on. 2 refer one person to
redden vb blush, colour, flush, glow, another, direct to, guide to, hand over
redeem vb buy back, cash in, to, pass on to, recommend to, send
exchange for cash, reclaim, recover, to. 3 refer to the dictionary, consult, go
re-purchase, trade in, win back. > l ib - to, look up, resort to, study, turn to.
e r a t e . redeem yourself > ATONE. referee n adjudicator, arbiter, ar-
redolent adj 1 aromatic, fragrant, bitrator, judge, mediator, umpire.
perfumed, scented, smelling. 2 redol- reference n 1 allusion, citation,
ent of the past, reminiscent, suggest- example, illustration, instance, in-
ive. timation, mention, note, quotation,
reduce vb 1 abate, abbreviate, referral, remark. 2 endorsement, re-
abridge, clip, compress, curtail, cut, commendation, testimonial.
cut back, cut down, decimate, refill vb fill up, refuel, renew, replen-
decrease, detract from, devalue, ish, top up.
dilute, diminish, inf dock (wages), inf refine vb 1 clarify, cleanse, clear,
ease' up on, halve, impair, lessen, decontaminate, distil, process, puri-
limit, lower, make less, minimize, fy, treat. 2 refine manners, civilize, cul-
moderate, narrow, prune, shorten, tivate, improve, perfect, polish.
shrink, simplify, mf slash, slim down,
tone down, trim, truncate, weaken, refined adj 1 aristocratic, civilized,
whittle. 2 become less, contract, courteous, courtly, cultivated, cul-
dwindle, shrink. 3 reduce a liquid, con- tured, delicate, dignified, discerning,
centrate, condense, thicken. 4 reduce discriminating, educated, elegant,
to rubble, break up, destroy, grind, fastidious, genteel, gentlemanly, gra-
pulp, pulverize, triturate. 5 reduce to cious, ladylike, nice, polished, polite,
poverty, degrade, demote, downgrade, inf posh, precise, derog pretentious,
humble, impoverish, move down, derog prissy, sensitive, sophisticated,
put down, ruin. Opp in c r e a s e , r a is e . stylish, subtle, tasteful, inf upper-
crust, urbane, well-bred, well
reduction n 1 contraction, curtail- brought-up. Opp r u d e . 2 refined oil.
ment, inf cutback, deceleration (of clarified, distilled, processed, puri-
speed), decimation, decline, decrease, fied, treated. Opp c r u d e .
diminution, drop, impairment, lessen-
ing, limitation, loss, moderation, nar- refinement n 1 breeding, mf class,
rowing, remission, shortening, courtesy, cultivation, delicacy, dis-
shrinkage, weakening. 2 reduction in cernment, discrimination, elegance,
price, concession, cut, depreciation, finesse, gentility, graciousness, pol-
devaluation, discount, rebate, re- ish, derog pretentiousness, sensitiv-
fund. Opp INCREASE. ity, sophistication, style, subtlety,
taste, urbanity. 2 refinements in design.
redundant adj excessive, inessen-
alteration, change, enhancement,
tial, non-essential, superfluous,
improvement, modification, perfec-
supernumerary, surplus, too many, tion.
unnecessary, unneeded, unwanted.
Opp NECESSARY. reflect vb 1 echo, mirror, return,
send back, shine back, throw back.
reek n stench, stink. > s me l l .
2 brood, cerebrate, inf chew things
reel n bobbin, spool. • vb falter, lurch, over, consider, contemplate, deliber-
pitch, rock, roll, spin, stagger, ate, meditate, ponder, remind your-
 339 regardless
self, reminisce, ruminate. > t h in k . refuge n asylum, in/bolt-hole, cover,
3 Her success reflects her hard work, bear harbour, haven, inf hideaway, hide-
witness to, correspond to, demon- out, in/hidey-hole, hiding-place, pro-
strate, evidence, exhibit, illustrate, tection, retreat, safety, sanctuary,
indicate, match, point to, reveal, security, shelter, stronghold.
show. refugee n displaced person, emigre,
reflection n 1 echo, image, likeness. exile, fugitive, outcast, runaway.
2 reflection of hard work, demonstra- refund n rebate, repayment. • vb give
tion, evidence, indication, manifesta- back, pay back, recoup, reimburse,
tion, result. 3 no reflection on you. repay, return.
aspersion, censure, criticism, dis-
refusal n inf brush-off, denial, dis-
credit, imputation, reproach, shame,
agreement, disapproval, rebuff, rejec-
slur. 4 time for reflection, cerebration,
tion, veto. Opp ACCEPTANCE.
cogitation, contemplation, delibera-
tion, meditation, pondering, ru- refuse n detritus, dirt, garbage, junk,
mination, self-examination, study, litter, rubbish, trash, waste. • vb
thinking, thought. baulk at, decline, deny, disallow, inf
jib at, in/pass up, rebuff, reject, repu-
reflective adj 1 glittering, lustrous, diate, say no to, spurn, turn down,
reflecting, shiny, silvery. 2 > veto, withhold. Opp a c c e pt , g r a n t .
THOUGHTFUL.
refute vb counter, discredit, disprove,
reform vb 1 ameliorate, amend, negate, prove wrong, rebut.
become better, better, change, con-
vert, correct, improve, make better, regain vb be reunited with, find, get
mend, put right, reconstruct, rectify, back, recapture, reclaim, recoup,
remodel, reorganize, save. 2 reform a recover, repossess, retake, retrieve,
system, purge, reconstitute, regener- return to, win back.
ate, revolutionize. regal adj derog haughty, imperial,
kingly, lordly, majestic, noble, pa-
refrain vb refrain from abstain from,
latial, derog pompous, princely,
avoid, cease, desist from, do with-
queenly, royal, stately. > s pl e n d id .
out, eschew, forbear, leave off, inf
quit, renounce, stop. regard n 1 gaze, look, scrutiny, stare.
2 attention, care, concern, considera-
refresh vb 1 cool, energize, enliven, tion, deference, heed, notice, refer-
fortify, freshen, invigorate, inf perk ence, respect, sympathy, thought.
up, quench the thirst of, reanimate, 3 admiration, affection, appreciation,
rejuvenate, renew, restore, resuscit- approbation, approval, deference,
ate, revitalize, revive, slake (thirst). esteem, favour, honour, love, respect,
2 refresh the memory, activate, awaken, reverence, veneration. • vb 1 behold,
jog, prod, prompt, remind, stimulate, contemplate, eye, gaze at, keep an
refreshing adj 1 bracing, cool, eye on, look at, note, observe,
enlivening, exhilarating, inspiriting, scrutinize, stare at, view, watch.
invigorating, restorative, reviving, 2 regarded me as a liability, account,
stimulating, thirst-quenching, tin- consider, deem, esteem, judge, look
gling, tonic. Opp e x h a u s t in g . 2 a upon, perceive, rate, reckon, respect,
refreshing change, different, fresh, think of, value, view, weigh up.
interesting, new, novel, original, regarding prep about, apropos, con-
unexpected, unfamiliar, unforeseen, cerning, connected with, involving,
unpredictable, welcome. Opp b o r in g . on the subject of, pertaining to, inf
refreshments plur n drinks, eat- re, respecting, with reference to,
ables, inf eats, inf nibbles, snack. with regard to.
> DRINK, FOOD. regardless adj regardless of care-
refrigerate vb chill, cool, freeze, ice, less about, despite, heedless of,
keep cold. indifferent to, neglectful of, notwith-
regime 340

standing, unconcerned about, un- reprehensible, sad, shameful, un-

mindful of. desirable, unfortunate, unhappy,
regime n administration, control,
unlucky, unwanted, upsetting, woe-
discipline, government, leadership, ful, wrong.
management, order, reign, rule, sys- regular adj 1 consistent, constant,
tem. equal, even, fixed, measured,
regiment vb arrange, control, dis- ordered, predictable, recurring,
cipline, organize, regulate, system- repeated, rhythmic, steady, symmet-
atize. rical, systematic, uniform, unvary-
ing. □ daily, hourly, monthly, weekly,
region n area, country, department,
yearly. 2 a regular procedure, accus-
district, division, expanse, land, local-
tomed, common, commonplace, con-
ity, neighbourhood, part, place,
ventional, customary, established,
province, quarter, sector, territory,
everyday, familiar, frequent, habit-
tract, vicinity, zone.
ual, known, normal, official, ordin-
register n archives, catalogue, ary, orthodox, prevailing, proper,
chronicle, diary, directory, file, index, routine, scheduled, standard, tradi-
inventory, journal, ledger, list, tional, typical, usual. 3 a regular sup-
record, roll, tally. • vb 1 enlist, enrol, porter. dependable, faithful, reliable.
enter your name, join, sign on. 2 reg- Opp ir r e g u l a r . • n inf faithful, fre-
ister a complaint, catalogue, enter, list, quenter, habitue, regular customer,
log, make official, minute, present, patron.
record, set down, submit, write
down. 3 register emotion, betray, dis- regulate vb 1 administer, conduct,
play, divulge, express, indicate, man- control, direct, govern, manage,
ifest, reflect, reveal, show. 4 register in monitor, order, organize, oversee,
a hotel, inf check in, sign in. 5 register restrict, supervise. 2 regulate temper-
what someone says, keep in mind, ature. adjust, alter, balance, change,
make a note of, mark, notice, take get right, moderate, modify, set,
account of. vary.
regress vb backslide, degenerate, regulation n by-law, command-
deteriorate, fall back, go back, move ment, decree, dictate, directive, edict,
backwards, retreat, retrogress, law, order, ordinance, requirement,
revert, slip back. Opp pr o g r e s s . restriction, rule, ruling, statute.
regret n 1 bad conscience, com- rehearsal n dress rehearsal, inf dry
punction, contrition, guilt, peni- run, exercise, practice, preparation,
tence, pricking of conscience, inf read-through, inf runthrough, inf
remorse, repentance, self-accusation, tiy-out.
self-condemnation, self-reproach,
shame. 2 disappointment, grief, sad- rehearse vb drill, go over, practise,
ness, sorrow, sympathy. • vb accuse prepare, inf run over, inf run
yourself, bemoan, be regretful, be through, try out.
sad, bewail, deplore, deprecate, feel rehearsed adj calculated, practised,
remorse, grieve (about), lament, pre-arranged, premeditated, pre-
mourn, repent (of), reproach your- pared, scripted, studied, thought out.
self, rue, weep (over). Opp IMPROMPTU.
regretful adj apologetic, ashamed, reign n administration, ascendancy,
conscience-stricken, contrite, disap- command, empire, government,
pointed, guilty, penitent, remorse- jurisdiction, kingdom, monarchy,
ful, repentant, rueful, sorry. > s a d . power, rule, sovereignty. • vb be
Opp UNREPENTANT. king, be on the throne, be queen,
regrettable adj deplorable, disap- command, govern, have power, hold
pointing, distressing, lamentable, sway, rule, inf wear the crown.
341
relaxed
reincarnation n rebirth, return to related adj affiliated, akin, allied,
life, transmigration. associated, cognate, comparable,
reinforce vb 1 back up, bolster, but- connected, consanguineous, inter-
tress, fortify, give strength to, hold connected, interdependent, interre-
up, prop up, stay, stiffen, strengthen, lated, joined, joint, linked, mutual,
support, toughen. 2 reinforce an army. parallel, reciprocal, relative, similar,
add to, assist, augment, help, twin. £> RELEVANT. Opp UNRELATED.
increase the size of, provide rein- relation n 1 old use kinsman, old use
forcements for, supplement. kinswoman, plur kith and kin, mem-
ber of the family, relative. > f a mil y .
reinforcements plur n additional
2 relation of a story. t> n a r r a t io n .
troops, auxiliaries, back-up, help,
reserves, support. relationship n 1 affiliation, affin-
ity, association, attachment, bond,
reinstate vb recall, rehabilitate, closeness, connection, consanguin-
restore, take back, welcome back. ity, correlation, correspondence,
Opp DISMISS. interconnection, interdependence,
reject vb 1 cast off, discard, discount, kinship, link, parallel, pertinence,
dismiss, eliminate, exclude, jettison, rapport, ratio, tie, understanding. >
infjunk, put aside, scrap, send back, s imil a r it y . Opp c o n t r a s t . 2 affair, inf
throw away, throw out. 2 reject intrigue, inf liaison, love affair,
friends, disown, inf drop, inf give romance, sexual relations. t> f r ie n d -
someone the cold shoulder, jilt, s h ip .
rebuff, renounce, repel, repudiate, relative adj t> r el a t ed , r el ev a n t .
repulse, inf send packing, shun, relative to commensurate (with),
spurn, turn your back on. 3 reject an comparative, proportional, propor-
invitation, brush aside, decline, tionate. Opp UNRELATED. • HO RELATION.
refuse, say no to, turn down, veto.
Opp ACCEPT, ADOPT. relax vb 1 be easy, be relaxed, calm
down, cool down, feel at home, inf let
rejoice vb be happy, celebrate, go, inf put your feet up, rest, inf slow
delight, exult, glory, revel, triumph. down, inf take it easy, unbend,
Opp GRIEVE. unwind. Opp t e n s io n . 2 relax your vi-
relapse n degeneration, deteriora- gilance. abate, curb, decrease, dimin-
tion, recurrence (of illness), regression, ish, ease off, lessen, loosen, mitigate,
reversion, in/set-back, worsening. • vb moderate, reduce, release, relieve,
backslide, degenerate, deteriorate, slacken, soften, temper, inf tone
fall back, have a relapse, lapse, down, unclench, unfasten, weaken.
regress, retreat, revert, sink back, Opp INCREASE.
slip back, weaken. relaxation n 1 ease, informality,
loosening up, relaxing, repose, rest,
relate vb 1 communicate, describe,
unwinding. > r e c r e a t io n . Opp t e n s io n .
detail, divulge, impart, make known,
2 abatement, alleviation, diminu-
narrate, present, recite, recount,
tion, lessening, in/let-up, mitigation,
rehearse, report, reveal, tell. 2 ally,
moderation, remission, slackening,
associate, compare, connect, con-
weakening. Opp in c r e a s e .
sider together, coordinate, correlate,
couple, join, link, relate to 1 apper- relaxed adj derog blase, calm, care-
tain to, apply to, bear upon, be rele- free, casual, comfortable, contented,
vant to, concern, inf go with, pertain cool, cosy, easygoing, inf free and
to, refer to. 2 relate to other people, be easy, friendly, good-humoured,
friends with, empathize with, frat- happy, inf happy-golucky, informal,
ernize with, handle, have a relation- insouciant, inf laid-back, derog lax,
ship with, identify with, socialize leisurely, light-hearted, nonchalant,
with, understand. peaceful, reassuring, restful, serene,
relay 342

derog slack, tranquil, unconcerned, relic n heirloom, heritage, inherit-

unhurried, untroubled. Opp t e n s e . ance, keepsake, memento, remains,
reminder, remnant, souvenir, sur-
relay n 1 shift, turn. 2 live relay. vival, token, vestige.
broadcast, programme, transmis-
sion. • vb broadcast, communicate, relief n abatement, aid, alleviation,
pass on, send out, spread, televise, assistance, assuagement, comfort,
transmit. cure, deliverance, diversion, ease,
help, inf let-up, mitigation, palliation,
release vb 1 acquit, allow out, relaxation, release, remedy, remis-
deliver, discharge, dismiss, emancip- sion, respite, rest.
ate, excuse, exonerate, free, let go,
relieve vb abate, alleviate, anaes-
let loose, let off, liberate, loose, par-
thetize, assuage, bring relief to, calm,
don, rescue, save, set free, set loose,
comfort, console, cure, diminish, dis-
unchain, unfasten, unfetter, unleash,
burden, disencumber, dull, ease,
unshackle, untie. Opp d e t a in . 2 fire
lessen, lift, lighten, make less, mit-
off, launch, let fly, let off, send off.
igate, moderate, palliate, reduce,
3 release information, circulate, dis-
relax, release, rescue, soften, soothe,
seminate, distribute, issue, make
unburden. > h e l p . Opp in t e n s if y .
available, present, publish, put out,
send out, unveil. religion n 1 belief, creed, divinity,
doctrine, dogma, derog pietism, the-
relegate vb 1 consign to a lower ology. 2 creed, cult, denomination,
position, demote, downgrade, put faith, persuasion, sect, a Buddhism,
down. 2 banish, dispatch, exile. Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism,
relent vb acquiesce, become more Sikhism, Taoism, Zen.
lenient, be merciful, capitulate, give religious adj 1 devotional, divine,
in, give way, relax, show pity, soften, holy, sacramental, sacred, scriptural,
weaken, yield. theological. Opp s e c u l a r . 2 church-
relentless adj 1 dogged, fierce, going, committed, dedicated, devout,
hard-hearted, implacable, incessant, God-fearing, godly, derog pietistic,
inexorable, intransigent, merciless, pious, derog religiose, reverent, right-
obdurate, obstinate, pitiless, re- eous, saintly, derog sanctimonious,
morseless, ruthless, uncompromis- spiritual. Opp ir r e l ig io u s . 3 religious
ing, unfeeling, unforgiving, wars, bigoted, doctrinal, fanatical,
unmerciful, unyielding. > c r u e l . sectarian, schismatic.
2 unceasing, unrelieved, unstop- relinquish vb concede, give in, hand
pable, unyielding. > c o n t in u o u s . over, part with, submit, surrender,
yield.
relevant adj appertaining, applic-
able, apposite, appropriate, apropos, relish n 1 appetite, delight, enjoy-
apt, connected, essential, fitting, ger- ment, enthusiasm, gusto, pleasure,
mane, linked, material, pertinent, zest. 2 flavour, piquancy, savour,
proper, related, relative, significant, tang, taste. • vb appreciate, delight
suitable, suited, to the point. Opp in, enjoy, like, love, revel in, savour,
IRRELEVANT. take pleasure in.
reluctant adj averse, disinclined,
reliable adj certain, conscientious,
consistent, constant, dependable, grudging, hesitant, loath, unenthu-
siastic, unwilling. Opp e a g e r .
devoted, efficient, faithful, honest,
infallible, loyal, predictable, proven, rely vb rely on inf bank on, count on,
punctilious, regular, reputable, depend on, have confidence in, lean
responsible, safe, solid, sound, sta- on, put your faith in, inf swear by,
ble, staunch, steady, sure, trusted, trust.
trustworthy, trusty, unchanging, remain vb old use abide, be left, cany
unfailing. Opp u n r e l ia b l e . on, continue, endure, keep on,
343
remorseful
linger, live on, persevere, persist, remember vb 1 be mindful of, have
stay, inf stay put, survive, tarry, wait, a memoiy of, have in mind, keep in
remaining > r e s id u a l . mind, recognize. 2 learn, memorize,
remainder n balance, excess, extra, retain. 3 remember old times, be nos-
remnant, residue, residuum, rest, talgic about, hark back to, recall, re-
Surplus. > REMAINS. collect, reminisce about, review,
summon up, tell stories about, think
remains plur n 1 crumbs, debris, back to. 4 remember Christmas, cele-
detritus, dregs, fragments, inf left- brate, commemorate, observe. Opp
overs, oddments, inf odds and ends, FORGET.
offcuts, remainder, remnants, res-
remind vb give a reminder to, jog
idue, rubble, ruins, scraps, traces,
the memoiy of, nudge, prompt.
vestiges, wreckage. 2 historic remains.
heirloom, heritage, inheritance, reminder n 1 aide-memoire, cue,
keepsake, memento, monument, hint, inf memo, memorandum,
relic, reminder, souvenir, survival. mnemonic, note, inf nudge, prompt,
3 human remains, ashes, body, bones, inf shopping list. 2 heirloom, inher-
carcass, corpse. itance, keepsake, memento, relic,
souvenir, survival.
remake vb piece together, rebuild,
reconstitute, reconstruct, redo. > reminisce vb be nostalgic, hark
RENEW. back, look back, recall, remember,
review, tell stories, think back.
remark n comment, mention, obser-
reminiscence n account, anecdote,
vation, opinion, reflection, state-
memoir, memoiy, recollection,
ment, thought, utterance, word. • vb
remembrance.
1 assert, comment, declare, mention,
note, observe, pass comment, reflect, reminiscent adj evocative, nostal-
say, state. 2 heed, mark, notice, gic, recalling, redolent, suggestive.
observe, perceive, see, take note of. remiss adj careless, dilatoiy, forget-
remarkable adj amazing, aston- ful, irresponsible, lax, negligent,
ishing, astounding, conspicuous, slack, thoughtless. Opp c a r e f u l .
curious, different, distinguished, ex- remit vb 1 remit a debt, cancel, let off,
ceptional, extraordinaiy, important, settle. 2 abate, decrease, ease off,
impressive, marvellous, memorable, lessen, relax, slacken. 3 dispatch, for-
notable, noteworthy, odd, out-of-the- ward, send, transmit. > pa y .
ordinary, outstanding, peculiar, remittance n allowance, fee, pay-
phenomenal, prominent, signal, sig- ment.
nificant, singular, special, strange,
remnants plur n bits, fragments, inf
striking, surprising, inf terrific, inf
leftovers, oddments, offcuts, residue,
tremendous, uncommon, unforget-
scraps, traces, vestiges. > r e ma in s .
table, unusual, wonderful. Opp o r d i -
nar y. remodel vb > r e n e w .
remedy n inf answer, antidote, remorse n bad conscience, com-
corrective, countermeasure, cure, punction, contrition, grief, guilt,
cure-all, drug, elixir, medicament, mortification, pangs of conscience,
medication, medicine, nostrum, penitence, pricking of conscience,
palliative, panacea, prescription, regret, repentance, sadness, self-
redress, relief, restorative, solution, accusation, self-reproach, shame, sor-
therapy, treatment. • vb alleviate, inf row.
ameliorate, answer, control, correct, remorseful adj ashamed, con-
counteract, in/fix, heal, help, mend, science-stricken, contrite, grief-
mitigate, palliate, put right, rectify, stricken, guilt-ridden, guilty,
redress, relieve, repair, solve, treat. > penitent, regretful, repentant, rue-
CURE. ful, sorry. Opp u n r e pe n t a n t .
remorseless 344

remorseless adj dogged, implac- render vb 1 cede, deliver, furnish,

able, inexorable, intransigent, mer- give, hand over, offer, present, prof-
ciless, obdurate, pitiless, relentless, fer, provide, surrender, tender, yield.
ruthless, uncompromising, unfor- 2 render a song, execute, interpret,
giving, unkind, unmerciful, unremit- perform, play, produce, sing. 3 ren-
ting. > CRUEL. dered me speechless, cause to be, make,
remote adj 1 alien, cut off, desolate, rendezvous n appointment, assig-
distant, far-away, foreign, God-for- nation, date, engagement, meeting,
saken, hard to find, inaccessible, isol- meeting-place, old use tiyst.
ated, lonely, outlying, out of reach, renegade n apostate, backslider,
out of the way, secluded, solitary, defector, deserter, fugitive, heretic,
unfamiliar, unfrequented, injunget- mutineer, outlaw, rebel, runaway,
at-able, unreachable. Opp c l o s e . 2 a traitor, turncoat.
remote chance, doubtful, implausible, renege vb renege on abjure, abrog-
improbable, negligible, outside, poor, ate, inf back out of, break, default
slender, slight, small, unlikely. Opp on, fail to keep, go back on, si rat on,
s u r e . 3 a remote manner, abstracted,
repudiate, si welsh on.
aloof,.cold, cool, detached, haughty,
preoccupied, reserved, standoffish, renew vb 1 bring up to date, inf do
uninvolved, withdrawn. Opp f r ie n d l y . up, inf give a face-lift to, improve,
mend, modernize, overhaul, recon-
removal n 1 relocation, removing, dition, reconstitute, recreate, redec-
taking away, transfer, transporta- orate,, redesign, redevelop, redo, refit,
tion. 2 elimination, eradication, refresh, refurbish, regenerate, re-
extermination, liquidation, purge, introduce, rejuvenate, remake,
purging. t> k il l in g . 3 removal from a remodel, renovate, repaint, repair,
job. deposition, dethronement, dis- replace, replenish, restore, resume,
lodgement, dismissal, displacement, resurrect, revamp, revitalize, revive,
ejection, expulsion, inf firing, making touch up, transform, update. 2 renew
redundant, ousting, redundancy, inf an activity, come back to, pick up
sacking, transference, unseating. again, recommence, restart, resume,
4 removal of teeth, drawing, extrac- return to. 3 renew vows, confirm, reaf-
tion, pulling, taking out, withdrawal. firm, reiterate, repeat, restate.
remove vb 1 abolish, abstract, ampu- renounce vb 1 abandon, abjure,
tate (limb), banish, clear away, cut abstain from, declare your opposi-
off, cut out, delete, depose, detach, tion to, deny, desert, discard, disown,
disconnect, dismiss, dispense with, eschew, forgo, forsake, forswear, give
displace, dispose of, do away with, up, reject, repudiate, spurn. 2 re-
eject, eliminate, eradicate, erase, nounce the throne, abdicate, inf quit,
evict, excise, exile, expel, expunge, relinquish, resign, surrender.
inf fire, inf get rid of, inf kick out,
kill, oust, purge, root out, rub out, inf renovate vb t> r e n e w .
sack, send away, separate, strike out, renovation n improvement, mod-
sweep away, take out, throw out, ernization, overhaul, reconditioning,
turn out, undo, unfasten, uproot, redevelopment, refit, refurbishment,
wash off, wipe (tape-recording), wipe renewal, repair, restoration, trans-
out. 2 remove furniture, carry away, formation, updating.
convey, move, take away, transfer, renowned adj celebrated, distin-
transport. 3 remove a tooth, draw out, guished, eminent, illustrious, noted,
extract, pull out, take out. 4 remove prominent, well-known. > f a mo u s .
clothes, doff (a hat), peel off, strip off,
rent n 1 fee, hire, instalment, pay-
take off.
ment, rental. 2 a rent in a garment. >
rend vb cleave, lacerate, pull apart, s pl it . • vb charter, farm out, hire,
rip, rupture, shred, split, tear. lease, let.
 345
repose
reorganize vb rationalize, re- repeated, repeating, repetitious, tau-
arrange, re-deploy, reshuffle, restruc- tologous, tedious, unchanging, un-
ture. varied. t> c o n t in u a l .
repair vb 1 inf fix, mend, overhaul, replace vb 1 make good, put back,
patch up, put right, rectify, refit, reinstate, restore, return. 2 be a
restore, service. t> r e n e w . 2 darn, replacement for, come after, follow,
patch, sew up. oust, succeed, supersede, supplant,
repay vb 1 compensate, give back, take over from, take the place of. >
pay back, recompense, refund, reim- d e pu t iz e . 3 replace worn parts, change,
burse, remunerate, settle. 2 avenge, renew, substitute.
get even, inf get your own back, re- replacement n inf fill-in, proxy,
ciprocate, requite, retaliate, return, stand-in, substitute, successor,
revenge. understudy.
repeal vb abolish, abrogate, annul, replenish vb fill up, refill, renew,
cancel, invalidate, nullify, rescind, restock, top up.
reverse, revoke. replete adj inf bursting, crammed,
repeat vb 1 do again, duplicate, redo, gorged, inf jam-packed, overloaded,
rehearse, replay, replicate, repro- sated, stuffed. t> f u l l .
duce, re-run, show again. 2 echo, replica n inf carbon copy, clone,
quote, recapitulate, re-echo, regurgi- copy, duplicate, facsimile, imitation,
tate, reiterate, restate, retell, say likeness, model, reconstruction,
again. reproduction.
repel vb 1 check, drive away, fend reply n acknowledgement, answer,
off, fight off, hold off, inf keep at bay, inf come-back, reaction, rejoinder,
parry, push away, rebuff, repulse, response, retort, riposte. • vb answer,
resist, ward off, withstand. 2 repel give a reply, react, rejoin, respond,
water, be impermeable to, exclude, reply to > ACKNOWLEDGE, COUNTER.
keep out, reject. 3 cruelty repels us. report n 1 account, announcement,
alienate, be repellent to, disgust, article, communication, commu-
nauseate, offend, inf put off, revolt, nique, description, dispatch, narra-
sicken, inf turn off. Opp a t t r a c t . tive, news, record, statement, story,
repellent adj 1 impermeable, imper- inf write-up. 2 backfire, bang, blast,
vious, resistant, unsusceptible. 2 t> boom, crack, detonation, discharge,
REPULSIVE. explosion, noise. • vb 1 announce,
repent vb bemoan, be repentant broadcast, circulate, communicate,
about, bewail, feel repentance for, declare, describe, disclose, divulge,
lament, regret, reproach yourself for, document, give an account of, notify,
rue. present a report on, proclaim, pub-
lish, put out, record, recount, reveal,
repentance n contrition, guilt, pen- state, tell. 2 report for duty, announce
itence, regret, remorse, self-accusa- yourself, check in, clock in, intro-
tion, self-reproach, shame, sorrow. duce yourself, make yourself known,
repentant adj apologetic, ashamed, present yourself, sign in. 3 report
conscience-stricken, contrite, grief- someone to the police, complain about,
stricken, guilt-ridden, guilty, penit- denounce, inform against, inf tell on.
ent, regretful, remorseful, rueful, reporter n columnist, commentator,
sorry. Opp u n r e pe n t a n t . correspondent, journalist, news-
repertory n collection, repertoire, caster, newsman, newspaperman,
repository, reserve, stock, store, sup- newspaperwoman, news presenter,
ply. newswoman, photojoumalist.
repetitive adj boring, incessant, it- repose n calm, calmness, comfort,
erative, monotonous, recurrent, ease, inactivity, peace, peacefulness,
reprehensible 346

poise, quiescence, quiet, quietness, potism, dictatorship, oppression,

relaxation, respite, rest, serenity, restraint, subjugation, totalitarian-
stasis, stillness, tranquillity. > s l e e p. ism, tyranny. 2 repression of emotion,
Opp ACTIVITY. inf bottling up, frustration, inhibi-
tion, suffocation, suppression.
reprehensible adj blameworthy,
culpable, deplorable, disgraceful, repressive adj authoritarian, auto-
immoral, objectionable, regrettable, cratic, brutal, coercive, cruel, des-
remiss, shameful, unworthy, wicked. potic, dictatorial, fascist, harsh,
t> GUILTY. Opp INNOCENT. illiberal, oppressive, restricting,
represent vb 1 act out, assume the severe, totalitarian, tyrannical, unde-
guise of, be an example of, embody, mocratic, unenlightened. Opp l ib e r a l .
enact, epitomize, exemplify, exhibit, reprieve n amnesty, pardon, post-
express, illustrate, impersonate, ponement, respite, stay of execution.
incarnate, masquerade as, personify, • vb commute a sentence, forgive,
pose as, present, pretend to be, stand let off, pardon, postpone execution,
for, symbolize, typify. 2 characterize, set free, spare.
define, delineate, depict, describe,
draw, paint, picture, portray, reflect, reprimand n admonition, castiga-
show,'’sketch. 3 act for, speak for, tion, censure, condemnation, cri-
stand Up for. ticism, inf dressing-down, inf
going-over, inf lecture, lesson, inf rap
representation n depiction, figure, on the knuckles, rebuke, remonstra-
icon, image, imitation, likeness, tion, reproach, reproof, scolding, inf
model, picture, portrait, portrayal, slap on the wrist, inf slating, inf talk-
resemblance, semblance, statue. ing-to, inf telling-off, inf ticking-off,
representative adj 1 archetypal, upbraiding, inf wigging. • vb admon-
average, characteristic, illustrative, ish, berate, blame, inf carpet, casti-
normal, typical. Opp a b n o r ma l . 2 rep- gate, censure, chide, condemn,
resentative government, chosen, demo- correct, criticize, disapprove of, inf
cratic, elected, elective, popular. Opp dress down, find fault with, inf haul
t o t a l it a r ia n . • n 1 delegate, deputy, over the coals, inf lecture, inf rap,
proxy, spokesman, spokeswoman, rate, inf read the riot act to, rebuke,
stand-in, substitute. 2 agent, inf rep, reprehend, reproach, reprove, scold,
salesman, salesperson, saleswoman, inf slate, inf take to task, inf teach a
inf traveller. 3 ambassador, consul, lesson, inf tell off, inf tick off,
diplomat, emissary, envoy, legate. upbraid. Opp pr a is e .
4 Amer congressman, councillor,
Member of Parliament, MP, ombuds- reprisal n counter-attack, getting
man. even, redress, repayment, retaliation,
retribution; revenge, vengeance.
repress vb 1 control, crush, curb,
keep down, limit, oppress, overcome, reproach n blame, disapproval, dis-
put down, quell, restrain, subdue, grace, scorn. • vb censure, criticize,
subjugate. 2 repress emotion, inf bottle scold, show disapproval of, upbraid.
up, frustrate, inhibit, stifle, suppress, > REPRIMAND. Opp PRAISE.
repressed adj 1 cold, frigid, frus- reproachful adj admonitory, cen-
trated, inhibited, neurotic, inf prim sorious, condemnatory, critical, dis-
and proper, tense, unbalanced, approving, disparaging, reproving,
undemonstrative, inf uptight. Opp scornful, withering.
u n in h ib it e d . 2 repressed emotion, inf bot-
reproduce vb 1 copy, counterfeit,
tled up, hidden, latent, subconscious, duplicate, forge, imitate, mimic, pho-
suppressed, unconscious, unfulfilled. tocopy, print, redo, reissue, reprint,
repression n i authoritarianism, simulate. > r e pe a t . 2 beget young,
censorship, coercion, control, des- breed, increase, multiply, procreate,
347
resent
produce offspring, propagate, regen- require vb 1 be missing, be short of,
erate, spawn. depend on, lack, need, want. 2 require
reproduction n 1 breeding, cloning, a response, call for, coerce, command,
increase, multiplying, procreation, compel, direct, force, insist, instruct,
proliferation, propagation, spawn- make, oblige, order, put pressure on.
ing. 2 in/carbon copy, clone, copy, > r e q u e s t , required > r e q u is it e .
duplicate, facsimile, fake, forgery, requirement n condition, demand,
imitation, likeness, print, replica. essential, necessity, need, precondi-
repudiate vb 1 deny, disagree with, tion, prerequisite, provision, proviso,
dispute, rebuff, refute, reject, scorn, qualification, Lat sine qua non, stipu-
turn down. Opp a c k n o w l e d g e . 2 repu- lation.
diate an agreement, abrogate, discard, requisite adj compulsory, essential,
disown, go back on, recant, imperative, indispensable, mandat-
renounce, rescind, retract, reverse, ory, necessary, needed, obligatory,
revoke. prescribed, required, set, stipulated.
repugnant adj :> r e pu l s iv e . Opp OPTIONAL.
repulsive adj abhorrent, abom- requisition n application, author-
inable, beastly, disagreeable, dis- ization, demand, mandate, order,
gusting, distasteful, distressing, foul, request, voucher. • vb 1 demand,
gross, hateful, hideous, loathsome, order, in/put in for, request. 2 appro-
nasty, nauseating, nauseous, objec- priate, commandeer, confiscate,
tionable, obnoxious, odious, of- expropriate, occupy, seize, take over,
fensive, inf off-putting, repellent, take possession of.
repugnant, revolting, inf sick, sick- rescue n deliverance, emancipation,
ening, unattractive, unpalatable, freeing, liberation, recovery, release,
unpleasant, unsavoury, unsightly, relief, salvage. • vb 1 deliver, eman-
vile. > UGLY. Opp ATTRACTIVE. cipate, extricate, free, let go, liber-
reputable adj creditable, depend-
ate, loose, ransom, release, save, set
free. 2 get back, recover, retrieve, sal-
able, esteemed, famous, good, highly
vage.
regarded, honourable, honoured,
prestigious, reliable, respectable, research n analysis, enquiry, ex-
respected, trustworthy, unimpeach- amination, experimentation, ex-
able, inf up-market, well-thought-of, ploration, fact-finding, inquiry,
worthy. Opp d is r e pu t a b l e . investigation, inf probe, scrutiny,
searching, study. • vb inf check out,
reputation n character, fame, name,
inf delve into, experiment, investi-
prestige, recognition, renown, re-
gate, inf probe, search, study.
pute, standing, stature, status.
resemblance n affinity, closeness,
reputed adj alleged, assumed,
coincidence, comparability, compar-
believed, considered, deemed, famed,
ison, conformity, congruity, corre-
judged, purported, reckoned,
spondence, equivalence, likeness,
regarded, rumoured, said, supposed,
similarity, similitude.
thought.
resemble vb approximate to, bear
request n appeal, application, call,
resemblance to, be similar to, com-
demand, entreaty, petition, plea,
pare with, look like, mirror, sound
prayer, question, requisition, soli-
like, inf take after.
citation, suit, supplication. • vb
adjure, appeal, apply (for), ask, beg, resent vb begrudge, be resentful
beseech, call for, claim, demand, about, dislike, envy, feel bitter about,
desire, entreat, implore, importune, grudge, grumble at, object to, inf
invite, petition, pray for, require, req- take exception to, inf take umbrage
uisition, seek, solicit, supplicate. at.
resentful 348

resentful adj aggrieved, annoyed, maining, surviving, unconsumed,

begrudging, bitter, disgruntled, unused.
displeased, embittered, envious, resign vb abandon, abdicate, si chuck
grudging, hurt, indignant, irked, in, forsake, give up, leave, quit, relin-
jaundiced, jealous, malicious, of- quish, renounce, retire, stand down,
fended, inf peeved, inf put out, spite- step down, surrender, vacate,
ful, unfriendly, ungenerous, upset, resigned t> PATIENT, resign yourself
vexed, vindictive. > a n g r y . to > ACCEPT.
resentment n animosity, bitterness, resilient adj 1 bouncy, elastic, firm,
discontent, envy, grudge, hatred, plastic, pliable, rubbeiy, springy, sup-
hurt, ill-will, indignation, irritation, ple. Opp b r it t l e . 2 a resilient person.
jealousy, malevolence, malice, pique, adaptable, buoyant, irrepressible,
rancour, spite, unfriendliness, vexa- strong, tough, unstoppable. Opp v u l -
tion, vindictiveness. > a n g e r . n er a bl e.

reservation n 1 condition, doubt, resist vb avoid, be resistant to, check,

hedging, hesitation, misgiving, pro- confront, counteract, defy, face up
viso, qualification, qualm, reluc- to, hinder, inf hold out against, inf
tance, reticence, scepticism, scruple. hold your ground against, impede,
2 hotelreservation. appointment, book- inhibit, keep at bay, oppose, prevent,
ing. 3 a wildlife reservation. t> r e s e r v e . rebuff, refuse, stand up to, with-
stand. > FIGHT. Opp ASSIST, YIELD.
reserve n 1 cache, fund, hoard, inf
resistant adj defiant, hostile, intran-
nest-egg, reservoir, savings, stock,
sigent, invulnerable, obstinate,
stockpile, store, supply. 2 inf back-
opposed, refractory, stubborn, unco-
up, deputy, plur reinforcements,
operative, unresponsive, unyielding,
replacement, stand-by, inf stand-in,
resistant to against, impervious to,
substitute, understudy. 3 a wildlife
invulnerable to, opposed to, proof
reserve, enclave, game park, preserve,
against, repellent of, unaffected by,
protected area, reservation, safari-
unsusceptible to, unyielding to. Opp
park, sanctuary. 4 aloofness, caution,
SUSCEPTIBLE.
modesty, quietness, reluctance,
reticence, self-consciousness, self- resolute adj adamant, bold, com-
effacement, shyness, derog stand- mitted, constant, courageous, de-
offishness, taciturnity, timidity. • vb cided, decisive, determined, dogged,
1 earmark, hoard, hold back, keep, firm, immovable, immutable, inde-
keep back, preserve, put aside, fatigable, derog inflexible, derog
retain, save, set aside, stockpile, store obstinate, persevering, persistent,
up. 2 reserve seats, infbag, book, order, pertinacious, relentless, resolved,
pay for. reserved > r e t ic e n t . single-minded, staunch, steadfast,
strong-minded, strong-willed, derog
reside vb reside in dwell in, inhabit, stubborn, tireless, unbending, un-
live in, lodge in, occupy, settle in. daunted, unflinching, unshakable,
residence n old use abode, address, unswerving, untiring, unwavering.
domicile, dwelling, dwelling-place, Opp IRRESOLUTE.
habitation, home, quarters, seat. > resolution n 1 boldness, commit-
HOUSE. ment, constancy, determination,
resident adj in residence, livingin,
devotion, doggedness, firmness,
permanent, remaining, staying. • n derog obstinacy, perseverance, per-
citizen, denizen, dweller, house- sistence, pertinacity, purposefulness,
holder, houseowner, inhabitant, inf resolve, single-mindedness, staunch-
local, native. ness, steadfastness, derog stubborn-
ness, tenacity, will-power. > c o u r a g e .
residual adj abiding, continuing, left 2 commitment, oath, pledge,
over, outstanding, persisting, re- promise, undertaking, vow. 3 resolu-
 349 responsible
tion at a meeting, decision, motion, our, look up to, pay homage to,
proposal, proposition, statement. revere, reverence, show respect to,
4 resolution of a problem, answer, think well of, value, venerate. Opp
denouement, disentangling, resolv- DESPISE.
ing, settlement, solution, sorting out. respectable adj 1 decent, genteel,
resolve n t> r e s o l u t io n . • vb 1 agree, honest, honourable, law-abiding,
conclude, decide formally, deter- refined, respected, unimpeachable,
mine, elect, fix, make a decision, upright, worthy. 2 respectable clothes.
make up your mind, opt, pass a res- chaste, clean, decorous, dignified,
olution, settle, undertake, vote. modest, presentable, proper, seemly.
2 resolve a problem, answer, clear up, Opp d is r e pu t a b l e . 3 a respectable sum. >
disentangle, figure out, settle, solve, CONSIDERABLE.
sort out, work out. respectful adj admiring, civil, con-
resonant adj booming, echoing, full, siderate, cordial, courteous, deferen-
pulsating, resounding, reverber- tial, dutiful, gentlemanly, gracious,
ant, reverberating, rich, ringing, humble, ladylike, obliging, polite,
sonorous, thunderous, vibrant, proper, reverent, reverential, derog
vibrating. servile, subservient, thoughtful, well-
resort n 1 alternative, course of mannered. Opp DISRESPECTFUL.
action, expedient, option, recourse, respective adj individual, own, par-
refuge, remedy, reserve. 2 a seaside ticular, personal, relevant, separate,
resort, holiday town, retreat, spa, old several, special, specific.
use wateringplace. • vb resort to respite n break, in/breather, delay,
1 adopt, inf fall back on, have hiatus, holiday, intermission, inter-
recourse to, make use of, turn to, ruption, interval, inf let-up, lull,
use. 2 frequent, go to, inf hang out pause, recess, relaxation, relief,
in, haunt, invade, patronize, visit. remission, rest, time off, time out,
resound vb boom, echo, pulsate, res- vacation.
onate, reverberate, ring, rumble, resplendent adj brilliant, dazzling,
thunder, vibrate, resounding > r e s - glittering, shining, splendid. >
ona nt . BRIGHT.
resourceful adj clever, creative, respond vb respond to 1 acknow-
enterprising, imaginative, ingenious, ledge, answer, counter, give a
innovative, inspired, inventive, ori- response to, react to, reciprocate,
ginal, skilful, in/smart, talented. Opp reply to. 2 respond to need. > s y mpa t h -
SHIFTLESS. iz e .
resources plur n 1 assets, capital, response n acknowledgement,
funds, possessions, property, re- answer, in/comeback, counter, coun-
serves, riches, wealth. > mo n e y . 2 nat- terblast, feedback, reaction, rejoin-
ural resources, materials, raw der, reply, retort, riposte.
materials. responsible adj 1 at fault, culp-
respect n 1 admiration, apprecia- able, guilty, liable, to blame. 2 a
tion, awe, consideration, courtesy, responsible person. accountable,
deference, esteem, homage, honour, answerable, concerned, conscien-
liking, love, politeness, regard, rev- tious, creditable, dependable, dili-
erence, tribute, veneration. 2 perfect gent, dutiful, ethical, honest, in
in every respect, aspect, attribute, char- charge, law-abiding, loyal, mature,
acteristic, detail, element, facet, fea- moral, reliable, sensible, sober,
ture, particular, point, property, steady, thinking, thoughtful, trust-
quality, trait, way. • vb admire, worthy, unselfish. Opp ir r e s po n s ib l e .
appreciate, be polite to, defer to, 3 a responsible job. burdensome, de-
esteem, have high regard for, hon- cision-making, executive, inf front-
responsive 350

line, important, managerial, inf top. tions. re-establish, rehabilitate, rein-

Opp MENIAL. state, reintroduce, rekindle, revive.
responsive adj alert, alive, aware, 4 restore to health, cure, nurse, reju-
impressionable, interested, open, venate, resuscitate, revitalize.
perceptive, receptive, sensitive, restrain vb 1 check, control, curb,
sharp, sympathetic, warm-hearted, govern, hold back, inhibit, keep back,
wideawake, willing. Opp u n in t e r e s t e d . keep under control, limit, regulate,
rest n 1 break, inf breather, breath- rein in, repress, restrict, stifle, stop,
ing-space, comfort, ease, hiatus, idle- strait-jacket, subdue, suppress.
ness, inactivity, indolence, interlude, 2 arrest, bridle, confine, detain, fet-
intermission, interval, leisure, inf let- ter, handcuff, harness, imprison,
up, inf lie-down, inf loafing, lull, nap, incarcerate, jail, inf keep under lock
pause, quiet, recess, relaxation, and key, lock up, manacle, muzzle,
relief, remission, repose, respite, pinion, tie up. restrained o c a l m ,
siesta, tea-break, time off, vacation. DISCREET.
> s l e e p . 2 base, brace, bracket, restrict vb circumscribe, confine,
holder, prop, stand, support, trestle, control, cramp, delimit, enclose,
tripod. 3 t> r e ma in d e r . • vb 1 be still, impede, imprison, inhibit, keep
doze,'have a rest, idle, laze, lie back, within bounds, limit, regulate, shut.
lie down, lounge, nod off, inf put > RESTRAIN. Opp FREE.
your feet up, recline, relax, snooze, restriction n ban, check, constraint,
inf take a nap, inf take it easy, control, curb, curfew, inhibition,
unwind. > s l e e p. 2 lean, place, posi- limit,-limitation, proviso, qualifica-
tion, prop, set, stand, support. 3 It all tion, regulation, restraint, rule, stip-
rests on the weather, depend, hang, ulation.
hinge, rely, turn, come to rest >
HALT. result n 1 conclusion, consequence,
effect, end-product, fruit, issue, out-
restaurant n eating-place. □ bistro,
come, repercussion, sequel, upshot.
brasserie, buffet, caff, cafeteria, canteen,
2 result of a trial, decision, judgement,
carvery, diner, dining-room, grill, refec-
verdict. 3 result of a sum. answer,
tory, snack-bar, steak-house.
product, score, total. • vb arise, be
restful adj calm, calming, comfort- produced, come about, develop,
able, leisurely, peaceful, quiet, emanate, emerge, ensue, eventuate,
relaxed, relaxing, reposeful, sooth- follow, happen, issue, occur, proceed,
ing, still, tranquil, undisturbed, spring, stem, take place, turn out.
unhurried, untroubled. Opp e x h a u s t - result in > c a u s e .
in g .
resume vb begin again, carry on,
restless adj 1 agitated, anxious, continue, inf pick up the threads,
edgy, excitable, fidgety, highly- proceed, recommence, reconvene, re-
strung, impatient, infjittery, jumpy, open, restart.
nervous, inf on tenterhooks, restive,
skittish, uneasy, worked up, worried. resumption n continuation, recom-
> a c t iv e . 2 a restless night, disturbed, mencement, re-opening, inf restart.
interrupted, sleepless, inf tossing and resurrect vb breathe new life into,
turning, troubled, uncomfortable, bring back, raise (from the dead),
unsettled. Opp r e s t f u l . reawaken, restore, resuscitate, re-
restore vb 1 bring back, give back, vitalize, revive. t> r e n e w .
make restitution, put back, reinstate, retain vb 1 inf hang on to, hold, hold
replace, return. 2 restore antiques. back, keep, keep control of, main-
clean, inf do up, fix, inf make good, tain, preserve, reserve, save. Opp l o s e .
mend, rebuild, recondition, recon- 2 retain moisture, absorb, soak up.
struct, refurbish, renew, renovate, 3 retain facts, keep in mind, learn,
repair, touch up. 3 restore good rela- memorize, remember. Opp f o r g e t .
351
reveal
retaliate vb avenge yourself, be aiy, shelter. • vb 1 back away, back
revenged, counter-attack, exact re- down, climb down, decamp, depart,
tribution, inf get even, inf get your evacuate, fall back, flee, give ground,
own back, inf give tit for tat, hit back, go away, leave, move back, pull back,
pay back, repay, revenge yourself, retire, inf run away, take flight, inf
seek retribution, inf settle a score, take to your heels, in/turn tail, with-
strike back, inf take an eye for an draw. 2 the floods retreated, ebb, flow
eye, take revenge, wreak vengeance, back, recede, shrink back. Opp
retaliation n counter-attack, ADVANCE.
reprisal, retribution, revenge, ven- retribution n compensation, Lat
geance. quid pro quo, recompense, redress,
retard vb check, handicap, hinder, reprisal, retaliation, revenge, old use
hold back, hold up, impede, obstruct, satisfaction, vengeance. Opp f o r g iv e -
postpone, put back, set back, slow n ess.
down. t> d e l a y . retarded > b a c k -w a r d . retrieve vb bring back, come back
reticent adj aloof, derog antisocial, with, fetch back, find, get back, make
bashful, cautious, derog cold, cool, up for, recapture, reclaim, recoup,
demure, diffident, discreet, distant, recover, regain, repossess, rescue,
modest, quiet, remote, reserved, restore, return, salvage, save, take
restrained, retiring, secretive, self- back, trace, track down.
conscious, self-effacing, shy, silent, retrograde adj backward, negative,
derog standoffish, taciturn, timid, regressive, retreating, retrogressive,
uncommunicative, undemonstrative, reverse.
unemotional, unforthcoming, unre- retrospective adj backwardlook-
sponsive, unsociable, withdrawn. Opp ing, looking back, looking behind,
DEMONSTRATIVE. nostalgic, with hindsight.
retinue n attendants, company, return n 1 advent, arrival, home-
entourage, followers, inf hangerson, coming, reappearance, re-entry.
servants, suite, train. 2 return to normality, re-establishment
retire vb 1 give up, leave, quit, resign. (of), regression, reversion. 3 return of
2 retire from society, become reclusive, a problem recrudescence, recurrence,
cloister yourself, go away, go into re-emergence, repetition. 4 return of
retreat, retreat from the world, stolen goods, replacing, restitution,
sequester yourself, withdraw. 3 aes- restoration, retrieval. 5 return on an
tivate, go to bed, hibernate, si hit the investment, benefit, earnings, gain,
hay. > s l e e p. income, interest, proceeds, profit,
yield. • vb 1 backtrack, come back, do
retort n answer, inf comeback, rebut- a U-turn, double back, go back,
tal, rejoinder, reply, response, retali- reassemble, reconvene, re-enter,
ation, riposte. • vb answer, counter, regress, retrace your steps, revert,
react, rejoin, reply, respond, retali- turn back. 2 put back, readdress,
ate, return. repatriate, replace, restore, send
retract vb 1 draw in, pull back, pull back. 3 return money, exchange, give
in. 2 abandon, cancel, disclaim, dis- back, refund, reimburse, repay.
own, forswear, inf have second 4 return a verdict, inf come up with,
thoughts about, recant, renounce, deliver, give, proffer, report. 5 The
repeal, repudiate, rescind, reverse, problem returned, inf crop up again,
revoke, withdraw. happen again, reappear, recur, resur-
retreat n 1 departure, escape, evacu- face.
ation, exit, flight, retirement, with- reveal vb announce, bare, betray,
drawal. 2 a secluded retreat, asylum, bring to light, communicate, confess,
den, haven, inf hideaway, hideout, declare, denude, dig up, disclose, dis-
hiding-place, refuge, resort, sanctu- play, divulge, exhibit, expose, inf give
 352
revel
the game away, lay bare, leak, inf let reverie n inf brown study, daydream,
on, inf let out, inf let slip, make dream, fantasy, meditation.
known, open, proclaim, produce, reverse adj back, back-to-front,
publish, show, show up, inf spill the backward, contrary, converse,
beans about, inf take the wraps off, inverse, inverted, opposite, rear. • n
tell, uncover, undress, unearth, 1 antithesis, contrary, converse,
unfold, unmask, unveil. Opp h id e . opposite. 2 back, rear, underside,
revel n carnival, festival, fete, infjam- verso, wrong side. 3 defeat, difficulty,
boree, inf rave-up, inf spree. > r e v - disaster, failure, misfortune, mishap,
e l r y . • vb carouse, celebrate, inf have problem, reversal, setback, inf upset,
a spree, have fun, indulge in reveliy, vicissitude. • vb 1 change, invert,
inf live it up, make merry, inf paint overturn, transpose, turn round,
the town red. revel in > e n jo y . turn upsidedown. 2 reverse a car.
back, drive backwards, go into
revelation n admission, announce-
reverse. 3 reverse a decision, abandon,
ment, communique, confession, annul, cancel, countermand, invali-
declaration, disclosure, discovery, date, negate, nullify, overturn,
expose, exposure, information, inf quash, recant, repeal, rescind,
leak, ;news, proclamation, publica-
retract, revoke, undo.
tion, revealing, unmasking, unveil-
ing. , review n 1 examination, inf look
back, inf post-mortem, reappraisal,
revelry n carousing, celebration, con- reassessment, recapitulation, recon-
viviality, debauchery, festivity, fun, sideration, re-examination, report,
gaiety, infhigh jinks, jollification, jol- retrospective, study, survey. 2 book
lity, inf junketing, inf living it up, review, appreciation, assessment,
merry-making, revelling, revels, rois- commentary, criticism, critique,
tering, inf spree. > pa r t y . evaluation, judgement, notice, inf
revenge n reprisal, retaliation, re- write-up. • vb 1 appraise, assess, con-
tribution, spitefulness, vengeance, sider, evaluate, examine, inf go over,
vindictiveness. • vb avenge, repay, be inspect, reassess, recapitulate, recon-
revenged > RETALIATE. sider, re-examine, scrutinize, study,
revenue n gain, income, interest, survey, take stock of, inf weigh up.
money, proceeds, profits, receipts, 2 review a book, criticize, write a
returns, takings, yield. review of.
revise vb 1 adapt, alter, change, cor-
reverberate vb boom, echo, pulsate,
resonate, resound, ring, rumble, rect, edit, emend, improve, modify,
throb, thunder, vibrate. overhaul, inf polish up, reconsider,
rectify, inf redo, inf rehash, rephrase,
revere vb admire, adore, adulate, revamp, reword, rework, rewrite,
beatify, esteem, feel reverence for, update. 2 revise for exams, brush up,
glorify, honour, idolize, pay homage inf cram, learn, study, inf swot.
to, praise, respect, reverence, value,
revival n advance, progress, quick-
venerate, worship. Opp d e s pis e .
ening, reanimation, reawakening,
reverence n admiration, adoration, rebirth, recovery, renaissance, re-
adulation, awe, deference, devotion, newal, restoration, resurgence,
esteem, glorification, homage, hon- resurrection, resuscitation, return,
our, idolization, praise, respect, ven- revitalization, upsurge.
eration, worship. revive vb 1 awaken, come back to
reverent adj adoring, awed, life, inf come round, inf come to,
awestruck, deferential, devoted, quicken, rally, reawaken, recover,
devout, pious, prayerful, religious, resurrect, rouse, waken. Opp r e l a ps e .
respectful, reverential, solemn, wor- 2 bring back to life, inf cheer up,
shipful. Opp IRREVERENT. freshen, invigorate, refresh, renew,
353 riddle
restore, resuscitate, revitalize, oratorical, ornate, pretentious, ver-
strengthen. Opp w e a r y . bose, wordy.
revolt n civil war, coup, coup d’etat, rhyme n doggerel, jingle, poem. >
insurrection, mutiny, putsch, rebel- VERSE.
lion, reformation, revolution, rising, rhythm n accent, beat, measure,
inf take-over, uprising. • vb 1 disobey, metre, movement, pattern, pulse,
dissent, mutiny, rebel, riot, rise up. stress, tempo, throb, time.
2 appal, disgust, nauseate, offend,
rhythmic adj beating, measured,
outrage, repel, sicken, upset, revolt-
ing > OFFENSIVE.
metrical, predictable, pulsing, regu-
lar, repeated, steady, throbbing. Opp
revolution n 1 > r e v o l t . 2 circuit, IRREGULAR.
cycle, gyration, orbit, rotation, spin,
ribald adj bawdy, coarse, disrespect-
turn. 3 change, reorganization, reori-
ful, earthy, naughty, racy, rude, scur-
entation, shift, transformation, inf
rilous, inf smutty, vulgar. > o b s c e n e .
turn-about, upheaval, inf upset, inf
U-turn. ribbon n band, braid, line, strip,
stripe, tape, trimming, in ribbons >
revolutionary adj 1 insurgent,
RAGGED.
mutinous, rebel, rebellious, sedi-
tious, subversive. 2 revolutionary rich adj 1 affluent, inf flush, inf
ideas, avant-garde, challenging, cre- loaded, moneyed, opulent, pluto-
ative, different, experimental, cratic, prosperous, wealthy, inf well-
extremist, innovative, new, novel, heeled, well-off, well-to-do. Opp po o r .
progressive, radical, inf unheard-of, 2 rich furnishings, costly, elaborate,
upsetting. Opp c o n s e r v a t iv e . • n anar- expensive, lavish, luxurious, pre-
chist, extremist, freedom fighter, cious, priceless, splendid, sumptu-
insurgent, mutineer, rebel, terrorist, ous, valuable. 3 rich land, fecund,
fertile, fruitful, lush, productive. 4 a
revolve vb circle, go round, gyrate, rich harvest, abundant, ample, boun-
orbit, pirouette, pivot, reel, rotate, tiful, copious, plenteous, plentiful,
spin, swivel, turn, twirl, wheel, whirl, profuse, prolific, teeming. 5 rich
revulsion n abhorrence, aversion, colours, deep, full, intense, strong,
disgust, hatred, loathing, nausea, vibrant, vivid, warm. 6 rich food, cloy-
outrage, repugnance. ing, creamy, fat, fattening, fatty, full-
reward n award, bonus, bounty, flavoured, heavy, highly-flavoured,
compensation, decoration, favour, luscious, sumptuous, sweet, rich per-
honour, medal, payment, prize, re- son billionaire, capitalist, million-
compense, remuneration, requital, aire, plutocrat, tycoon.
return, tribute. Opp pu n is h m e n t . • vb riches plur n affluence, fortune,
compensate, decorate, give a reward means, money, opulence, plenty,
to, honour, recompense, remuner- possessions, prosperity, resources,
ate, repay. Opp pe n a l iz e , pu n is h . wealth.
rewarding > pr o f it a b l e , w o r t h w h il e . rickety adj dilapidated, flimsy, frail,
rhapsodize vb be expansive, effuse, insecure, ramshackle, shaky, totter-
enthuse, inf go into raptures. ing, tumbledown, unsteady, wobbly.
rhetoric n derog bombast, eloquence, > WEAK.
expressiveness, inf gift of the gab, rid vb clear, deliver (from), free, purge,
grandiloquence, magniloquence, ora- rescue, save, get rid of > d e s t r o y ,
tory, rhetorical language, derog REMOVE.
speechifying. riddle n 1 inf brain-teaser, conun-
rhetorical adj [most synonyms derog] drum, enigma, mystery, inf poser,
artifical, bombastic, florid, inf problem, puzzle, question. 2 filter,
flowery, fustian, grandiloquent, screen, sieve. • vb 1 filter, screen,
grandiose, highflown, insincere, sieve, sift, strain. 2 riddle with holes.
ride 354

honeycomb, inf pepper, perforate, upright, virtuous. 2 right answers.

pierce, puncture. accurate, apposite, appropriate, apt,
ride n t> jo u r n e y . • vb 1 ride a bike. correct, exact, factual, faultless, fit-
control, handle, manage, sit on, ting, genuine, perfect, precise,
steer. 2 ride on a bike, be carried, free- proper, sound, suitable, true, truth-
wheel, pedal. 3 ride on a horse, amble, ful, valid, veracious. 3 the right way.
canter, gallop, trot. > t r a v e l . advantageous, beneficial, best, con-
venient, good, normal, preferable,
ridge n arete, bank, crest, edge, preferred, recommended, sensible,
embankment, escarpment. > h il l . usual. 4 your right side, right-hand,
ridicule n badinage, banter, bur- starboard [= right facing bow of ship],
lesque, caricature, contumely, deri- 5 right wing in politics, conservative,
sion, invective, jeering, jibing, fascist, reactionary, Tory. Opp l e f t ,
lampoon, laughter, mockery, parody, w r o n g . • n 1 decency, equity, ethics,
raillery, inf ribbing, sarcasm, satire, fairness, goodness, honesty, integ-
scorn, sneers, taunts, teasing. • vb rity, justice, morality, propriety', rea-
be sarcastic, be satirical about, bur- son, truth, virtue. 2 right to free speech.
lesque, caricature, chaff, deride, gibe entitlement, facility, freedom, lib-
at, guy, hold up to ridicule, jeer at, erty, prerogative, privilege. 3 right to
jibe at, joke about, lampoon, laugh give orders, authority, commission,
at, make fun of, make jokes about, franchise, licence, position, power,
mimic, mock, parody, pillory, inf title. • vb 1 amend, correct, make
poke fun at, inf rib, satirize, scoff at, amends for, put right, rectify,
inf send up, sneer at, subject to redress, remedy, repair, set right.
ridicule, inf take the mickey, taunt, 2 pick up, set upright, stand upright,
tease, travesty. straighten up.
ridiculous adj absurd, amusing, righteous adj blameless, ethical,
comic, comical, inf crazy, inf daft, God-fearing, good, guiltless, derog
eccentric, farcical, foolish, grotesque, holier-than-thou, honest, just, law-
hilarious, illogical, irrational, laugh- abiding, moral, pure, derog sancti-
able, ludicrous, mad, nonsensical, monious, upright, upstanding,
preposterous, senseless, silly, unbe- virtuous. Opp SINFUL.
lievable, unreasonable, weird, inf
zany. t> f u n n y , s t u pid . Opp s e n s ib l e . rightful adj authorized, Lat bona fide,
correct, just, lawful, legal, legitimate,
rife adj abundant, common, endemic, licensed, licit, proper, real, true,
prevalent, widespread. valid. Opp ILLEGAL.
rift n 1 breach, break, chink, cleft,
rigid adj 1 adamantine, firm, hard,
crack, fracture, gap, gulf, opening,
inelastic, inflexible, set, solid, steely,
split. 2 a rift between friends, alien-
stiff, strong, unbending, wooden.
ation, conflict, difference, dis-
2 rigid discipline, harsh, intransigent,
agreement, disruption, division,
punctilious, stern, strict, uncom-
opposition, schism, separation.
promising, unkind, unrelenting,
rig n 1 > r ig g in g . 2 oil rig. platform. unyielding. t> o b s t in a t e , r ig o r o u s . Opp
3 [infl sporting rig. apparatus, clothes, FLEXIBLE.
equipment, gear, kit, outfit, stuff,
tackle. • vb rig out equip, fit out, kit rigorous adj 1 conscientious,
out, outfit, provision, set up, supply, demanding, exact, exacting, meticu-
lous, painstaking, precise, punc-
rigging n rig, tackle. □ halyards, ropes tilious, rigid, scrupulous, strict,
and pulleys, sails. stringent, structured, thorough,
right adj 1 decent, ethical, fair, good, tough, uncompromising, undeviat-
honest, honourable, just, law-abid- ing, unsparing, unswerving. Opp l a x .
ing, lawful, moral, principled, 2 rigorous climate, extreme, hard,
responsible, righteous, right-minded, harsh, inclement, inhospitable,
 355
river
severe, unfriendly, unpleasant. t> ripe adj mature, mellow, ready to
COLD. Opp MILD. use.
rim n brim, brink, circumference, ripen vb age, become riper, come to
edge, lip, perimeter, periphery. maturity, develop, mature, mellow.
rind n crust, husk, outer layer, peel, ripple n t> w a v e . • vb agitate, disturb,
skin. make waves, purl, ruffle, stir.
ring n 1 annulus, band, bracelet, rise n 1 acclivity, ascent, bank, cam-
circle, circlet, collar, corona, eyelet, ber, climb, elevation, hill, hump,
girdle, halo, hoop, loop, O, ringlet. incline, ramp, ridge, slope. 2 a rise in
2 boxing ring, arena, enclosure, rink. prices, escalation, gain, increase,
3 drugs ring, association, band, gang, increment, jump, leap, upsurge,
mob, organization, syndicate. t> upswing, upturn, upward move-
g r o u p . 4 the ring of a bell, boom, buzz, ment. • vb 1 arise, ascend, climb, fly
chime, clang, clink, inf ding-a-ling, up, go up, jump, leap, levitate, lift,
jangle, jingle, knell, peal, ping, lift off, mount, soar, spring, take off.
resonance, reverberation, tinkle, 2 get to your feet, get up, stand up.
tintinnabulation, tolling. 5 give me a 3 prices rise each year, escalate, grow,
ring sometime, inf bell, inf buzz, call, increase, spiral. 4 cliffs rise above us.
inf tinkle. • vb 1 bind, circle, loom, stand out, stick up, tower, rise
embrace, encircle, enclose, encom- up t> REBEL.
pass, gird, surround. 2 boom, buzz,
risk n 1 chance, likelihood, possibil-
chime, clang, clink, jangle, jingle,
ity. 2 danger, gamble, hazard, peril,
peal, ping, resonate, resound, rever-
speculation, uncertainty, venture.
berate, sound (the knell), tinkle, toll.
• vb 1 chance, dare, endanger,
3 call, inf give a buzz, phone, ring
hazard, imperil, jeopardize. 2 risk
up, telephone.
money, gamble, speculate, venture.
rinse vb bathe, clean, cleanse,
risky adj inf chancy, inf dicey, haz-
drench, flush, sluice, swill, wash.
ardous, inf iffy, perilous, precarious,
riot n affray, anarchy, brawl, chaos, unsafe. t> d a n g e r o u s . Opp s a f e .
commotion, demonstration, disor-
ritual n ceremonial, ceremony, cus-
der, disturbance, fracas, fray,
tom, formality, liturgy, observance,
hubbub, imbroglio, insurrection,
practice, rite, routine, sacrament,
lawlessness, mass protest, melee,
service, set procedure, solemnity,
mutiny, pandemonium, inf punch-
tradition.
up, revolt, rioting, riotous behaviour,
rising, row, inf rumpus, inf shindy, rival n adversary, antagonist, chal-
strife, tumult, turmoil, unrest, lenger, competitor, contender,
uproar, violence. • vb brawl, create a contestant, enemy, opponent, oppo-
riot, inf go on the rampage, inf go sition. • vb 1 challenge, compete
wild, mutiny, rampage, rebel, revolt, with, contend with, contest, emu-
rise up, run riot, inf take to the late, oppose, struggle with, under-
streets. t> f ig h t . cut, vie with. Opp c o o pe r a t e . 2 be as
good as, compare with, equal, match,
riotous adj anarchic, boisterous,
measure up to.
chaotic, disorderly, lawless, mu-
tinous, noisy, obstreperous, rivalry n antagonism, competition,
rampageous, rebellious, rowdy, competitiveness, conflict, conten-
tumultuous, uncivilized, uncontrol- tion, feuding, opposition, strife. Opp
lable, undisciplined, ungovernable, c o o pe r a t io n .
unrestrained, unruly, uproarious, river n brook, rivulet, stream, water-
violent, wild. Opp o r d e r l y . course, waterway. □ channel, conflu-
rip vb gash, lacerate, pull apart, rend, ence, delta, estuary, lower reaches, mouth,
rupture, shred, slit, split, tear. source, tributary, upper reaches.
 356
road
road n roadway, route, way. □ alley, sedimentary. □ basalt, chalk, clay, flint,
arterial road, avenue, boulevard, bridle- gneiss, granite, gravel, lava, limestone,
path, bridle-way, bypass, byroad, byway, marble, obsidian, pumice, quartz, sand-
cart-track, causeway, clearway, crescent, stone, schist, shale, slate, tufa, tuff. • vb
cul-de-sac, drive, driveway, dual car- 1 lurch, move to and fro, pitch, reel,
riageway, Amer freeway, highway, lane, roll, shake, sway, swing, toss, totter,
motorway, one-way street, path, path- wobble. 2 > s h o c k .
way, ring road, service road, side-road, rocky adj i barren, inhospitable,
side-street, slip-road, street, thoroughfare, pebbly, rough, rugged, stony. 2 >
tow-path, track, trail, trunk road, old UNSTEADY.
use turnpike.
rod n bar, baton, cane, dowel, pole,
roam vb amble, drift, meander, rail, shaft, spoke, staff, stick, strut,
prowl, ramble, range, rove, saunter, wand.
stray, stroll, inf traipse, travel, walk,
wander. rogue n blackguard, charlatan, cheat,
inf con-man, fraud, old use knave,
roar vb bellow, cry out, growl, howl, mischief-maker, inf quack, rapscal-
shout, snarl, thunder, yell, yowl. > lion, rascal, ruffian, scoundrel,
SOUND,. swindler, trickster, villain, wastrel,
rob vb-burgle, inf con, defraud, hold wretch. > c r imin a l .
up, lQot, inf mug, old use mulct, pick
role n 1 character, impersonation,
pockets, pilfer from, pillage, plun-
lines, part, portrayal. 2 role in a busi-
der, ransack, rifle, steal from. > s t e a l
ness. contribution, duty, function,
robber n bandit, brigand, burglar, job, position, post, task.
cat burglar, inf con-man, defrauder,
embezzler, old use highwayman, roll n 1 cylinder, drum, reel, scroll,
housebreaker, looter, inf mugger, spool, tube. 2 catalogue, directory,
pickpocket, pirate, shoplifter, swind- index, inventory, list, listing, record,
ler, thief. register. • vb 1 go round, gyrate,
move round, revolve, rotate, run,
robbery n breaking and entering, somersault, spin, tumble, turn, twirl,
burglary, inf con, confidence trick, whirl. 2 coil, curl, furl, make into a
embezzlement, fraud, hijacking, inf roll, twist, wind, wrap. 3 roll the lawn.
hold-up, larceny, looting, inf mug- flatten, level off, level out, smooth.
ging, pilfering, pillage, plunder, sack- 4 ship rolled in the storm, lumber,
ing, inf scrumping, shoplifting, lurch, pitch, reel, rock, stagger, sway,
stealing, inf stick-up, theft, thieving. toss, totter, wallow, welter, rolling >
robe n cloak, dress, frock, gown. w a v y , roll in, roll up > ARRIVE.
□ bathrobe, caftan, cassock, dressing-
romance n i idyll, love story, novel.
gown, habit, housecoat, kimono,
> w r it in g . 2 adventure, colour,
peignoir, surplice, vestment. • vb >
excitement, fascination, glamour,
DRESS.
mystery. 3 affair, amour, attach-
robot n android, automated ment, intrigue, liaison, love affair,
machine, automaton, bionic man, relationship.
bionic woman, computerized ma-
romantic adj 1 colourful, dream-
chine, mechanical man.
like, exotic, fabulous, fairy-tale, glam-
robust adj 1 athletic, brawny, fit, inf orous, idyllic, nostalgic, picturesque.
hale and hearty, hardy, healthy, 2 romantic feelings, affectionate,
hearty, muscular, powerful, rugged, amorous, emotional, erotic, loving,
sound, strong, sturdy, tough, vigor- passionate, inf sexy, inf soppy, tender.
ous. 2 durable, serviceable, strongly- 3 romantic fiction, emotional, escapist,
made, well-made. Opp w e a k . heart-warming, nostalgic, reassur-
rock n boulder, crag, ore, outcrop, ing, sentimental, derog sloppy,
scree, stone. □ igneous, metamorphic, tender, unrealistic. 4 romantic ideals.
357 round
chimerical, inf head in the clouds, pirouette, pivot, reel, revolve, roll,
idealistic, illusoiy, impractical, spin, swivel, turn, turn anticlock-
improbable, quixotic, starry-eyed, wise, turn clockwise, twiddle, twirl,
unworkable, Utopian, visionary. Opp twist, wheel, whirl. 2 rotate duties.
REALISTIC. alternate, pass round, share out, take
room n 1 inf elbow-room, freedom, in turn, take turns.
latitude, leeway, margin, scope, rotten adj 1 bad, corroded, crum-
space, territory. 2 a room in a house. bling, decayed, decaying, de-
apartment, cell, old use chamber. composed, disintegrating, foul,
□ ante-room, attic, audience chamber, mouldering, mouldy, inf off, over-
bathroom, bedroom, boudoir, cell, cellar, ripe, perished, putrid, rusty, smelly,
chapel, classroom, cloakroom, conserva- tainted, unfit for consumption,
tory, corridor, dining-room, dormitory, unsound. Opp s o u n d . 2 t> immo r a l .
drawing-room, dressing-room, gallery,
rough adj 1 broken, bumpy, coarse,
guest-room, hall, kitchen, kitchenette, lab-
craggy, irregular, jagged, knobbly,
oratory, landing, larder, laundry, lava-
lumpy, pitted, rocky, rugged, rutted,
tory, library, living-room, loft, lounge,
stony, uneven. 2 rough skin, bristly,
music-room, nursery, office, pantry, par- callused, chapped, coarse, haiiy,
lour, passage, play-room, porch, salon, harsh, leathery, ragged, scratchy,
saloon, scullery, sick-room, sitting-room, shaggy, unshaven, wrinkled. 3 a
spare room, stateroom, store-room, stu- rough sea. agitated, choppy, stormy,
dio, study, toilet, utility room, waiting- tempestuous, turbulent, violent,
room, ward, washroom, WC, workroom, wild. 4 a rough voice, cacophonous,
workshop. discordant, grating, gruff, harsh,
roomy adj capacious, commodious, hoarse, husky, rasping, raucous, stri-
large, sizeable, spacious, voluminous. dent, unmusical, unpleasant. Opp
> BIG. Opp SMALL. s m o o t h . 5 rough manners, a rough fel-
root n 1 radicle, rhizome, rootlet, tap low. badly-behaved, bluff, blunt,
root, tuber. 2 the root of a problem. brusque, churlish, ill-bred, impolite,
base, basis, bottom, cause, founda- loutish, rowdy, rude, surly, inf ugly,
tion, fount, origin, seat, source, start- uncivil, uncivilized, undisciplined,
ing-point. • vb root out t> REMOVE. unfriendly. 6 rough treatment, brutal,
cruel, painful, ruffianly, thuggish,
rope n cable, cord, line, strand,
violent. 7 rough work, amateurish,
string. □ halyard, hawser, lanyard, la- careless, clumsy, crude, hasty, imper-
riat, lasso, tether. • vb bind, hitch, lash, fect, inept, inf rough and ready,
moor, tether, tie. t> f a s t e n . unfinished, unpolished, unskilful.
rot n 1 corrosion, corruption, decay, 8 a rough estimate, approximate,
decomposition, deterioration, disin- general, hasty, imprecise, inexact,
tegration, dry rot, mould, mouldi- sketchy, vague. Opp e x a c t , g e n t l e ,
ness, putrefaction, wet rot. 2 What s mo o t h .
rot! > n o n s e n s e . • vb become rotten,
roughly adv about, approximately,
corrode, crumble, decay, decompose,
around, close to, nearly.
degenerate, deteriorate, disintegrate,
fester, go bad, inf go off, perish, round adj 1 [two-dimensional} annu-
putrefy, rust, spoil. lar, circular, curved, discshaped,
hoop-shaped, orbicular, ring-shaped.
rota n list, roster, schedule,
2 [three-dimensional} ball-shaped, bul-
timetable.
bous, cylindrical, globelike, globoid,
rotary adj gyrating, revolving, rotat- globular, orb-shaped, spherical,
ing, rotatoiy, spinning, turning, spheroid. 3 a round figure, ample, full,
twirling, twisting, whirling. plump, rotund, rounded, well-
rotate vb 1 go round, gyrate, have a padded. > f a t . • n bout, contest,
rotary movement, move round, game, heat, stage. • vb skirt, travel
roundabout 358

round, turn, round off > c o mpl e t e . royal adj imperial, kingly, majestic,
round on > a t t a c k , round the bend princely, queenly, regal, stately. • n
> m a d . round the clock > c o n t in u - [inf member of royal family. □ con-
o u s . round up > a s s e mb l e . sort, Her/His Majesty, Her/His Royal
Highness, king, monarch, prince,
roundabout adj circuitous, circular,
princess, queen, queen mother, regent,
devious, indirect, long, meandering,
sovereign. > n o b l e .
oblique, rambling, tortuous, twist-
ing, winding. Opp d ir e c t . • n rub vb 1 caress, knead, massage,
1 carousel, merry-go-round, old use smooth, stroke. 2 abrade, chafe,
whirligig. 2 traffic island. graze, scrape, wear away. 3 rub clean.
buff, burnish, polish, scour, scrub,
round-shouldered adj hunch- shine, wipe, rub it in > e mph a s iz e , rub
backed, humpbacked, stooping. out e r a s e , rub up the wrong way
rouse vb 1 arise, arouse, awaken, > ANNOY.
call, get up, wake up. 2 rouse to a rubbish n 1 debris, detritus, dregs,
frenzy, agitate, animate, electrify, dross, filth, flotsam and jetsam,
excite, galvanize, goad, incite, garbage, junk, leavings, inf left-overs,
inflame, provoke, spur on, stimulate, litter, lumber, muck, inf odds and
stir up, inf wind up, work up. ends, offal, offcuts, refuse, rejects,
rout vb conquer, crush, overpower, rubble, scrap, slops, sweepings,
overwhelm, put to flight, inf send trash, waste. 2 > n o n s e n s e .
packing. > d e f e a t . rubble n broken bricks, debris, frag-
ments, remains, ruins, wreckage.
route n course, direction, itinerary,
journey, path, road, way. ruddy adj flushed, fresh, glowing,
healthy, red, sunburnt.
routine adj accustomed, common-
place, customaiy, everyday, familiar, rude adj 1 abrupt, abusive, badman-
habitual, normal, ordinary, perfunc- nered, bad-tempered, blasphemous,
tory, planned, run-of-the-mill, sched- blunt, boorish, brusque, cheeky,
uled, uneventful, wellrehearsed. • n churlish, coarse, common, condes-
1 course of action, custom, inf drill, cending, contemptuous, discour-
habit, method, pattern, plan, prac- teous, disparaging, disrespectful,
tice, procedure, schedule, system, foul, graceless, gross, ignorant, ill-
way. 2 comedy routine, act, number, bred, ill-mannered, impertinent,
performance, programme, set piece. impolite, improper, impudent, in
bad taste, inconsiderate, indecent,
row n 1 [rhyme with crow] chain, insolent, insulting, loutish, mocking,
column, cordon, file, line, queue, naughty, oafish, offensive, offhand,
rank, sequence, series, string, tier. patronizing, peremptory, personal
2 [rhyme with cow] ado, commotion, (remarks), saucy, scurrilous, shame-
fuss, hubbub, hullabaloo, inf racket, less, tactless, unchivalrous, uncivil,
rumpus, tumult, uproar. > n o is e . uncomplimentaiy, uncouth, ungra-
3 altercation, argument, controversy, cious, old use unmannerly, unprint-
disagreement, dispute, fight, fracas, able, vulgar. > o b s c e n e . Opp po l it e .
inf ructions, inf slanging match, 2 rude workmanship, awkward, basic,
squabble. > q u a r r e l . • vb 1 [rhyme bumbling, clumsy, crude, inartistic,
with crow] row a boat, move, propel, primitive, rough, rough-hewn, sim-
scull. 2 [rhyme with cow] > q u a r r e l . ple, unpolished, unskilful, unsophis-
rowdy adj badly-behaved, boisterous, ticated, unsubtle. Opp s o ph is t ic a t e d .
disorderly, ill-disciplined, irrepress- be rude to > in s u l t .
ible, lawless, obstreperous, riotous, rudeness n abuse, inf backchat, bad
rough, turbulent, undisciplined, manners, boorishness, inf cheek,
unruly, violent, wild. > n o is y . Opp churlishness, condescension, con-
QUIET. tempt, discourtesy, disrespect, ill-
359 run
breeding, impertinence, impudence, ious, pernicious, shattering. 2 i>
incivility, insolence, insults, oafish- RUINED.
ness, tactlessness, uncouthness, vul- rule n 1 axiom, code, decree, plur
garity.
guidelines, law, ordinance, practice,
rudiments plur n basic principles, precept, principle, regulation, ruling,
basics, elements, essentials, first statute. 2 administration, ascend-
principles, foundations, fundament- ancy, authority, command, control,
als. domination, dominion, empire, gov-
rudimentary adj basic, crude, ele- ernment, influence, jurisdiction,
mentary, embryonic, immature, ini- management, mastery, oversight,
tial, introductory, preliminary, power, regime, reign, sovereignty,
primitive, provisional, undeveloped. supervision, supremacy, sway. 3 as a
Opp ADVANCED. general rule, convention, custom,
ruffian n inf brute, bully, desperado,
norm, routine, standard. • vb
1 administer, be the ruler of, com-
gangster, hoodlum, hooligan, lout,
mugger, rogue, scoundrel, thug, inf mand, control, direct, dominate, gov-
tough, villain, inf yob. ern, guide, hold sway, lead, manage,
predominate, reign, run, superin-
ruffle vb 1 agitate, disturb, ripple, tend. 2 adjudicate, decide, decree,
stir. 2 ruffle your hair, derange, dis- deem, determine, find, judge, pro-
arrange, dishevel, disorder, inf mess nounce, resolve, rule out > e x c l u d e .
up, rumple, tangle, tousle. 3 ruffle
your composure, annoy, confuse, dis- ruler n administrator, inf Big Brother,
concert, disquiet, fluster, irritate, inf law-maker, leader, manager. □ auto-
nettle, inf rattle, inf throw, unnerve, crat, Caesar, demagogue, despot, dic-
unsettle, upset, vex, worry. Opp tator, doge, emir, emperor, empress,
SMOOTH. governor, kaiser, king, lord, monarch,
potentate, president, prince, princess,
rug n blanket, coverlet, mat, matting, queen, rajah, regent, satrap, sovereign,
rugged adj 1 bumpy, craggy, irregu- sultan, suzerain, triumvirate [= three
lar, jagged, pitted, rocky, rough, ruling jointly], tyrant, tsar, viceroy. >
stony, uneven. 2 rugged conditions. CHIEF.
arduous, difficult, hard, harsh, oner- rumour n chat, inf chit-chat, gossip,
ous, rough, severe, tough. 3 rugged hearsay, inf low-down, news, prattle,
good looks, burly, hardy, husky, mus- report, scandal, inf tittletattle, whis-
cular, robust, rough, strong, sturdy, per.
ungraceful, unpolished, weather-
beaten. run n 1 canter, dash, gallop, jog,
marathon, race, sprint, trot. 2 a run
ruin n bankruptcy, breakdown, col-
in the car. drive, excursion, jaunt,
lapse, inf crash, destruction, down-
journey, joyride, ride, inf spin, trip.
fall, end, failure, fall, ruination,
3 run of bad luck, chain, sequence,
undoing, wreck. • vb damage, demol-
series, stretch. 4 chicken run. com-
ish, destroy, devastate, flatten, over-
pound, coop, enclosure, pen. • vb
throw, shatter, spoil, wreck, ruins
1 bolt, canter, career, dash, gallop,
debris, havoc, remains, rubble, hare, huny, jog, race, rush, scamper,
wreckage. scoot, scurry, scuttle, speed, sprint,
ruined adj crumbling, derelict, dilap- tear, trot. 2 buses run hourly, go, oper-
idated, fallen down, in ruins, ram- ate, ply, provide a service, travel.
shackle, ruinous, tumbledown, 3 car runs well, behave, function, per-
uninhabitable, unsafe, wrecked. form, work. 4 water runs downhill, cas-
ruinous adj 1 apocalyptic, ca- cade, dribble, flow, gush, leak, pour,
lamitous, cataclysmic, catastrophic, spill, stream, trickle. 5 Who runs the
crushing, destructive, devastating, country? administer, conduct, control,
dire, disastrous, fatal, harmful, injur- direct, govern, look after, maintain,
runner 360

manage, rule, supervise, run across fly, gallop, inf get a move on, hare,
> me e t , run after > pu r s u e , run away hasten, huriy, jog, make haste, move
> e s c a pe , run into > me e t . fast, race, run, scamper, inf scoot,
runner n 1 athlete, competitor, scramble, scurry, scuttle, shoot,
entrant, hurdler, jogger, participant, speed, sprint, stampede, inf step on
sprinter. 2 courier, dispatch-rider, it, inf tear, trot, inf zoom.
errand-boy, errand-girl, messenger. rust vb become rusty, corrode, crum-
3 plant sends out runners, offshoot, ble away, oxidize, rot.
shoot, sprout, sucker, tendril. rustic adj 1 > r u r a l . 2 rustic simplic-
runny adj fluid, free-flowing, liquid, ity. artless, clumsy, crude, naive,
running, thin, watery. Opp s o l id , vis- derog oafish, plain, rough, simple,
cous. uncomplicated, uncultured, unpol-
rupture n 1 breach, break, burst, ished, unsophisticated.
cleavage, fracture, puncture, rift, rusty adj 1 corroded, oxidized, rot-
split. 2 rupture between friends. break- ten, tarnished. 2 [inj] My French is
up, disunity, schism, separation. rusty, dated, forgotten, out of prac-
3 [medical] hernia. • vb break, burst, tice, unused.
fracture, part, separate, split. rut n 1 channel, furrow, groove,
rural-adj agrarian, agricultural, Arca- indentation, pothole, track, trough,
dian,' bucolic, countrified, pastoral, wheel-mark. 2 in a rut. dead end,
rustic, sylvan. Opp u r b a n . habit, pattern, routine, treadmill.
rush n 1 bustle, dash, haste, huriy, ruthless adj bloodthirsty, brutal, cal-
panic, pressure, race, scramble, lous,. cruel, dangerous, ferocious,
speed, turmoil, urgency. 2 rush of fierce, hard, heartless, inexorable,
water, cataract, flood, gush, spate, inhuman, merciless, pitiless, relent-
surge. 3 rush of people, charge, less, sadistic, unfeeling, unrelenting,
onslaught, stampede. • vb bolt, burst, unsympathetic, vicious, violent. Opp
bustle, canter, career, charge, dash, MERCIFUL.
sabotage n disruption, vandalism, heartened, disillusioned, dismal,
wilful damage, wrecking. • vb dispirited, dissatisfied, distressed,
cripple, damage, destroy, disable, doleful, dolorous, inf down, down-
disrupt, incapacitate, put out of cast, downhearted, dreary, forlorn,
action, inf throw a spanner in the friendless, funereal, gloomy, glum,
works (of), vandalize, wreck. grave, grief-stricken, grieving, grim,
sack n 1 bag, pouch. 2 inf the boot, guilty, heartbroken, inf heavy, heavy-
inf the chop, dismissal, firing, re- hearted, homesick, hopeless, in low
dundancy, inf your cards. • vb 1 inf spirits, inf in the doldrums, joyless,
axe, discharge, dismiss, inf fire, give lachrymose, lonely, inf long-faced, inf
someone notice, inf give someone the low, lugubrious, melancholy, mis-
boot, inf give someone the chop, inf erable, moody, moping, morose,
give someone the sack, lay off, make mournful, pathetic, penitent, pess-
redundant. 2 i> d e s t r o y , pl u n d e r , get imistic, piteous, pitiable, pitiful,
the sack be dismissed, be sacked, plaintive, poignant, regretful, rueful,
inf get your cards, get your marching saddened, serious, sober, sombre,
orders, lose your job. sorrowful, sorry, tearful, troubled,
unhappy, unsatisfied, upset, wistful,
sacred adj blessed, blest, consec-
woebegone, woeful, wretched. 2 sad
rated, dedicated, divine, godly, hal-
news, calamitous, deplorable, de-
lowed, holy, religious, revered,
pressing, disastrous, discouraging,
sacrosanct, sanctified, venerable,
dispiriting, distressing, grievous,
venerated. Opp s e c u l a r . heartbreaking, heart-rending, lam-
sacrifice n immolation, oblation, entable, morbid, moving, painful,
offering, propitiation, votive offer- regrettable, inf tear-jerking, touch-
ing. • vb 1 immolate, kill, offer up, ing, tragic, unfortunate, unsatis-
slaughter, yield up. 2 abandon, for- factory, unwelcome, upsetting. 3 a
feit, forgo, give up, let go, lose, relin- sad state of disrepair, o u n s a t is f a c t o r y .
quish, renounce, surrender. Opp HAPPY.
sacrilege n blasphemy, desecration, sadden vb aggrieve, inf break some-
disrespect, heresy, impiety, irrever- one’s heart, deject, depress, disap-
ence, profanation. point, discourage, dishearten,
sacrilegious adj atheistic, blas- dismay, dispirit, distress, grieve,
phemous, disrespectful, heretical, make sad, upset. Opp c h e e r .
impious, irreligious, irreverent, pro- sadistic adj barbarous, beastly, bru-
fane, ungodly. t> w ic k e d . Opp r e v e r e n t . tal, inhuman, monstrous, perverted,
sacrosanct adj inviolable, inviolate, pitiless, ruthless, vicious. > c r u e l .
protected, respected, secure, un- sadness n bleakness, care, dejec-
touchable. > SACRED. tion, depression, desolation, despair,
sad adj 1 abject, inf blue, broken- despondency, disappointment, disil-
hearted, careworn, cheerless, crest-* lusionment, dissatisfaction, distress,
fallen, dejected, depressed, desolate, dolour, gloom, glumness, grief,
despairing, desperate, despondent, heartbreak, heaviness, homesick-
disappointed, disconsolate, discon- ness, hopelessness, joylessness, lone-
tented, discouraged, disgruntled, dis- liness, melancholy, miseiy, moping,
safe 362

moroseness, mournfulness, pess- saintly adj angelic, blessed, blest,

imism, poignancy, regret, rue- chaste, godly, holy, innocent, moral,
fulness, seriousness, soberness, pious, pure, religious, righteous,
sombreness, sorrow, tearfulness, seraphic, sinless, virginal, virtuous.
trouble, unhappiness, wistfulness, t> GOOD. Opp SATANIC.
woe. Opp HAPPINESS. sake n account, advantage, behalf,
safe adj 1 defended, foolproof, ’benefit, gain, good, interest, welfare,
guarded, immune, impregnable, salary n compensation, earnings,
invulnerable, protected, secured, emolument, income, pay, payment,
shielded. > s e c u r e . Opp v u l n e r a b l e . remuneration, stipend, wages.
2 inf alive and well, inf all right, inf in
sale n marketing, selling, trade, traf-
one piece, intact, sound, undamaged,
fic, transaction, vending. □ auction,
unharmed, unhurt, uninjured,
bazaar, closing-down sale, fair, jumble
unscathed, well, whole. 3 safe drivers.
sale, market, rummage sale, spring sale.
cautious, circumspect, dependable,
reliable, trustworthy. 4 safe pets. salesperson n assistant, auction-
docile, friendly, harmless, innocuous, eer, representative, salesman, sales-
tame. 5 safe to drink, decontamin- woman, shop-boy, shop-girl, shop-
ated, drinkable, eatable, fit for human keeper.
consumption, fresh, good, non- saliva n inf dribble, inf spit, spittle,
poisdnous, non-toxic, pasteurized, sputum.
potable, pure, purified, uncontam- sallow adj anaemic, bloodless,
inated, unpolluted, wholesome. 6 safe colourless, etiolated, pale, pallid,
vehicle, airworthy, roadworthy, sea- pasty, unhealthy, wan, yellowish.
worthy, tried and tested. Opp d a n g e r -
o u s . make safe > s e c u r e , safe salt adj brackish, briny, saline, salted,
keeping care, charge, custody,
salty, savoury. Opp f r e s h .
guardianship, keeping, protection. salubrious adj health-giving,
safeguard vb care for, defend, keep healthy, hygienic, invigorating, nice,
safe, look after, protect, shelter, pleasant, refreshing, sanitaiy, whole-
shield. some. Opp UNHEALTHY.
safety n 1 cover, immunity, invul- salute n acknowledgement, gesture,
nerability, protection, refuge, sanc- greeting, salutation, wave. • vb
tuary, security, shelter. 2 safety of air accost, acknowledge, address, greet,
travel, dependability, harmlessness, hail, honour, pay respects to, recog-
reliability. nize. > GESTURE.
sag vb be limp, bend, dip, droop, fall, salvage n 1 reclamation, recovery,
flop, hang down, sink, slump. > d r o p . rescue, retrieval, salvation, saving.
2 recyclable material, waste. • vb
sail n 1 canvas, □foresail, gaffsail, jib,
conserve, preserve, reclaim, recover,
lateen sail, lugsail, mainsail, mizzen,
recycle, redeem, rescue, retrieve,
spinnaker, spritsail, topsail. 2 cruise,
reuse, save, use again.
sea-passage, voyage. > jo u r n e y . • vb
1 captain, navigate, paddle, pilot, salvation n deliverance, escape,
punt, row, skipper, steer. 2 cruise, help, preservation, redemption, res-
go sailing, put to sea, set sail, steam. cue, saving, way out. Opp d a mn a t io n .
> TRAVEL. salve n balm, cream, demulcent,
sailor n mariner, old use sea dog, sea- embrocation, emolient, liniment,
farer, seaman. □ able seaman, bargee, lotion, ointment, unguent. • vb alle-
boatman, boatswain, bosun, captain, cox, viate, appease, assuage, comfort,
coxswain, plur crew, deck-hand, helms- ease, mitigate, mollify, soothe.
man, mate, midshipman, navigator, same adj 1 actual, identical, self-
pilot, rating, rower, skipper, yachtsman, same. 2 two women wearing the same
yachtswoman. jacket, analogous, comparable, con-
 363
satirical
sistent, corresponding, duplicate, sound mind, rational, reasonable,
equal, equivalent, indistinguishable, sensible, sound, stable, well-bal-
interchangeable, matching, parallel, anced. Opp MAD.
similar, synonymous [= having same sanguine adj buoyant, cheerful, con-
meaning], twin, unaltered, un- fident, expectant, hopeful, inf look-
changed, uniform, unvaried. Opp d if - ing on the bright side, optimistic,
f er en t .
positive. Opp pe s s imis t ic .
sample n bit, demonstration, ex- sanitary adj aseptic, bacteria-free,
ample, foretaste, free sample, illus- clean, disinfected, germffee, healthy,
tration, indication, instance, hygienic, pure, salubrious, sterile,
model, pattern, representative piece, sterilized, uncontaminated, unpol-
selection, snippet, specimen, taste, luted, wholesome. Opp u n h e a l t h y .
trailer (of film), trial offer. • vb ex-
perience, inspect, take a sample of, sanitation n drainage, drains, lav-
taste, test, tiy. atories, sanitary arrangements,
sewage disposal, sewers.
sanatorium n clinic, convalescent
sap n fluid, life-blood, moisture,
home, hospital, nursing home, rest-
home. vigour, vitality, vital juices. • vb
bleed, drain. t> e x h a u s t .
sanctify vb beatify, bless, canonize,
sarcasm n acerbity, asperity, con-
consecrate, hallow, justify, purify.
tumely, derision, irony, malice,
sanctimonious adj canting, holier- mockery, ridicule, satire, scorn.
than-thou, hypocritical, insincere,
sarcastic adj acerbic, acidulous, bit-
moralizing, Pharisaical, si pi, pietis-
tic, pious, self-righteous, sententious,
ing, caustic, contemptuous, cutting,
demeaning, derisive, disparaging,
inf smarmy, smug, superior, unctu-
hurtful, ironic, ironical, mocking,
ous.
satirical, scathing, sharp, sneering,
sanction n agreement, approval, spiteful, taunting, trenchant, ven-
authorization, inf blessing, con- omous, vitriolic, withering, wound-
firmation, consent, encourage- ing. t> HUMOROUS.
ment, endorsement, legalization,
sardonic adj bitter, black, cruel,
licence, permission, ratification, sup-
cynical, grim, heartless, malicious,
port, validation. • vb agree to, allow,
mordant, wry. > h u m o r o u s .
approve, authorize, confirm, con-
sent to, endorse, inf give your bless- sash n band, belt, cummerbund,
ing to, give permission for, legalize, girdle, waistband.
legitimize, licence, permit, ratify, satanic adj demonic, devilish, dia-
support, validate. bolical, fiendish, hellish, infernal,
sanctity n divinity, godliness, grace, Mephistophelian. t> w ic k e d . Opp
holiness, piety, sacredness, saintli- SAINTLY.
ness. satchel n bag, pouch, school-bag,
sanctuary n 1 asylum, haven, pro- shoulder-bag.
tection, refuge, retreat, safety, shel- satellite n 1 moon, planet. 2 man-
ter. 2 wildlife sanctuary, conservation made satellite, spacecraft, sputnik.
area, park, preserve, reservation, satire n burlesque, caricature, de-
reserve. 3 a holy sanctuary, chapel, rision, invective, irony, lampoon,
church, holy of holies, holy place, mockeiy, parody, ridicule, satirical
sanctum, shrine, temple. comedy, scorn, inf send-up, inf spoof,
sands plur n beach, seaside, shore, inf take-off, travesty. i> w r it in g .
poet strand. satirical adj’critical, derisive, dis-
sane adj inf all there, balanced, Lat paraging, disrespectful, ironic, irrev-
compos mentis, inf in your right erent, mocking, scornful. t> h u m o r -
mind, level-headed, lucid, normal, of o u s , s a r c a s t ic .
satirize 364

satirize vb be satirical about, bur- aside, inf stash away, store up, take
lesque, caricature, criticize, deride, care of, use wisely. Opp w a s t e . 2 save
hold up to ridicule, lampoon, laugh from captivity, bail out, deliver, free,
at, make fun of, mimic, mock, par- liberate, ransom, redeem, release,
ody, pillory, inf send up, inf take off, rescue, set free. 3 save from destruction,
travesty. > r id ic u l e . recover, retrieve, salvage. 4 save from
satisfaction n comfort, content, danger, defend, deliver, guard, keep
contentment, delight, enjoyment, safe, preserve, protect, safeguard,
fulfilment, gratification, happiness, screen, shelter, shield. 5 saved me
joy, pleasure, pride, self-satisfaction. from looking a fool, check, deter, pre-
Opp DISSATISFACTION. clude, prevent, spare, stop. Opp a b a n -
don.
satisfactory adj acceptable, ad-
equate, inf all right, competent, fair, saving n 1 economizing, frugality,
inf good enough, inf not bad, pass- parsimony, prudence, inf scrimping
able, pleasing, satisfying, sufficient, and scraping, thrift. 2 cut, discount,
suitable, tolerable, inf up to scratch. economy, reduction.
Opp UNSATISFACTORY. savings n capital, funds, invest-
satisfy vb appease, assuage, comfort, ments, inf nest-egg, reserves, re-
comply with, content, fill, fulfil, grat- sources, riches, wealth.
ify, make happy, meet, pacify, pla- saviour n 1 champion, defender,
cate, please, put an end to, quench, deliverer, inf friend in need,
sate,, satiate, serve (a need), settle, guardian, liberator, rescuer. 2 [theo-
slake (thirst), solve, supply. Opp f r u s - logical] Christ, Our Lord, The Messiah,
t r a t e '. satisfied > c o n t e n t . The Redeemer.
saturate vb drench, fill, impregnate,
savour n flavour, piquancy, relish,
permeate, soak, souse, steep, suffuse,
smell, tang, taste, zest. • vb appreci-
waterlog, wet.
ate, delight in, enjoy, relish, smell,
sauce n 1 condiment, gravy, taste.
ketchup, relish. 2 > in s o l e n c e .
savoury adj appetizing, delicious,
saucepan n cauldron, pan, pot, flavoursome, piquant, salty. > t a st y .
skillet, stockpot. Opp SWEET.
savage adj 1 barbarian, barbaric,
saw n 1 □ chain-saw, hack-saw, jigsaw,
cannibal, heathen, pagan, primitive,
ripsaw. 2 [old use] just an old saw. t>
uncivilized, uncultivated, unedu- SAYING. • Vb > CUT.
cated. Opp c iv il iz e d . 2 savage beasts.
feral, fierce, undomesticated, un- say vb affirm, allege, announce,
tamed, wild. 3 savage attack, angry, answer, articulate, assert, asseverate,
atrocious, barbarous, beastly, bestial, aver, old use bruit abroad, inf come
blistering, bloodthirsty, bloody, bru- out with, comment, communicate,
tal, callous, cold-blooded, cruel, de- convey, declare, disclose, divulge,
monic. diabolical, ferocious, fierce, ejaculate, enunciate, exclaim,
heartless, inhuman, merciless, mur- express, intimate, maintain, men-
derous, pitiless, ruthless, sadistic, tion, mouth, phrase, pronounce, inf
unfeeling, vicious, violent. Opp t a me . put it about, read out, recite, rejoin,
• n barbarian, beast, brute, cannibal, remark, repeat, reply, report, re-
fiend, savage person. • vb attack, spond, retort, reveal, signify, state,
bite, claw, lacerate, maul, mutilate. suggest, tell, utter. > s pe a k , t a l k , t e l l .
save vb 1 be sparing with, collect, saying n adage, aphorism, apoph-
conserve, economize, hoard, hold thegm, axiom, catch-phrase, catch-
back, hold on to, invest, keep, inflay word, cliche, dictum, epigram, ex-
aside, inf put by, put in a safe place, pression, formula, maxim, motto,
reserve, retain, scrape together, set phrase, precept, proverb, quotation,
365 scatterbrained
remark, old use saw, slogan, state- s ma l l . Opp pl e n t if u l . 2 scanty clothes.
ment, tag, truism, watchword. indecent, revealing, inf see-through,
scab n clot of blood, crust, sore, thin.
scale n 1 dandruff, flake, plate, scapegoat n dupe, si fall guy, inf
scurf. 2 remove scale from teeth, cak- front, victim, whipping-boy.
ing, coating, crust, deposit, en- scar n blemish, brand, bum, cica-
crustation, inf fur, plaque, tartar. trice, cicatrix, cut, disfigurement,
3 the scale on a thermometer, calibra- injury, mark, scab, scratch. > w o u n d .
tion, gradation, graduation. 4 the • vb blemish, brand, bum, damage,
social scale, hierarchy, ladder, order, deface, disfigure, injure, leave a scar
ranking, spectrum. 5 small/large on, mark, scratch, spoil.
scale, proportion, ratio. > s iz e . 6 mu- scarce adj inf few and far between,
sical scale, sequence, series. □ chromatic in/hard to come by, in/hard to find,
scale, diatonic scale, major scale, minor inadequate, infrequent, in short sup-
scale. • vb ascend, clamber up, climb, ply, insufficient, lacking, meagre,
go up, mount, scales balance, rare, scant, scanty, sparse, inf thin
weighing-machine. on the ground, uncommon, unusual.
scamper vb dash, frisk, frolic, gam- Opp PLENTIFUL.
bol, hasten, huny, play, romp, run, scarcely adv barely, hardly, only
rush, scuttle. just.
scan vb 1 check, examine, explore,
scarcity n dearth, famine, inad-
eye, gaze at, investigate, look at, pore
equacy, insufficiency, lack, need,
over, scrutinize, search, stare at,
paucity, poverty, rarity, shortage,
study, survey, view, watch. 2 scan the
want. Opp PLENTY.
papers, flip through, glance at, read
quickly, skim, thumb through. scare n alarm, jolt, shock, start.
> f r ig h t . • vb 1 alarm, dismay, in-
scandal n 1 discredit, disgrace, dis-
timidate, make someone afraid, inf
honour, disrepute, embarrassment,
make someone jump, menace,
ignominy, infamy, notoriety, oblo-
panic, shake, shock, startle, terror-
quy, outrage, reproach, sensation,
ize, threaten, unnerve. > f r ig h t e n .
shame. 2 calumny, defamation, gos-
Opp r e a s s u r e .
sip, innuendo, libel, rumour, slan-
der, slur, inf smear, inf tittle-tattle. scarf n headscarf, muffler, shawl,
stole.
scandalize vb affront, appal, dis-
gust, horrify, offend, outrage, shock, scary adj [infl creepy, eerie, hair-
upset. raising, horrible, scaring, unnerv-
ing. > FRIGHTENING.
scandalous adj 1 disgraceful, dis-
gusting, dishonourable, disreputable, scathing adj biting, caustic, critical,
ignominious, immodest, immoral, humiliating, mordant, satirical, sav-
improper, indecent, indecorous, in- age, scornful, tart, withering. Opp
famous, licentious, notorious, out- COMPLIMENTARY.
rageous, shameful, shocking, scatter vb 1 break up, disband, dis-
sinful, sordid, unmentionable, un- integrate, dispel, disperse, divide,
speakable, wicked. 2 a scandalous lie. send in all directions, separate. 2 scat-
calumnious, defamatory, libellous, ter seeds, broadcast, disseminate,
scurrilous, slanderous, untrue. intersperse, shed, shower, sow,
scansion n metre, prosody, rhythm. spread, sprinkle, strew, throw about.
I> VERSE. Opp GATHER.
scanty adj 1 inadequate, insuffi- scatterbrained adj absent-minded,
cient, meagre, mean, si measly, inf careless, crazy, disorganized, forget-
mingy, minimal, scant, scarce, inf ful, frivolous, hare-brained, inat-
skimpy, sparing, sparse, stingy. > tentive, muddled, inf not with it, inf
scavenge 366

scatty, thoughtless, unreliable, un- scheme n 1 approach, blueprint,

systematic, vague. > s il l y . design, draft, idea, method, plan,
scavenge vb forage, rummage,
procedure, programme, project, pro-
posal, scenario, strategy, system.
scrounge, search.
2 a dishonest scheme, conspiracy,
scenario n design, framework, lay- inf dodge, intrigue, machinations,
out, outline, plan, scheme, storyline, -manoeuvre, plot, inf ploy, inf racket,
structure, summaiy. ruse, stratagem, subterfuge, tactic.
scene n 1 area, background, con- 3 colour scheme, arrangement, design.
text, locale, locality, location, place, • vb collude, connive, conspire, inf
position, setting, site, situation, spot, cook something up, in/hatch a plot,
whereabouts. 2 a beautiful scene, pic- intrigue, machinate, manoeuvre,
ture, sight, spectacle. > s c e n e r y . plan, plot.
3 scene from a film, act, chapter, inf scholar n academic, inf egghead,
clip, episode, part, section, sequence. expert, highbrow, intellectual, pro-
4 a nasty scene, altercation, argument, fessor, pundit, savant. > pu pil .
inf carry-on, commotion, disturb-
scholarly adj 1 academic, bookish,
ance, furore, fuss, quarrel, row,
inf brainy, inf deep, erudite, high-
tantrum, inf to-do, inf upset.
brow, intellectual, knowledgeable,
scenery n 1 landscape, outlook, learned, lettered, widely-read. 2 schol-
panorama, prospect, scene, terrain, arly treatise, documented, researched,
view, vista. 2 stage scenery. backdrop, rigorous, scientific, well-argued, well-
flats, set, setting. informed.
scenic adj attractive, beautiful, scholarship n 1 academic achieve-
breathtaking, grand, impressive, ment, education, erudition, intellec-
lovely, panoramic, picturesque, tual attainment, knowledge, learn-
pretty, spectacular. ing, research, schooling, scientific
scent n 1 aroma, bouquet, fragrance, rigour, wisdom. 2 a scholarship to
nose, odour, perfume, redolence, Oxford, award, bursary, endowment,
smell. 2 after-shave, eau de cologne, exhibition, fellowship, grant.
lavender water, perfume. 3 an an- school n 1 educational institution.
imal’s scent, spoor, track, trail. • vb □ academy, boarding-school, coeduca-
t> s me l l , scented > s me l l in g . tional school, college, comprehensive
sceptic n agnostic, cynic, doubter, (school), first school, grammar school,
inf doubting Thomas, disbeliever, high school, infant school, junior school,
scoffer, unbeliever. Opp b e l ie v e r . kindergarten, nursery school, playgroup,
preparatory school, primary school, pub-
sceptical adj agnostic, cynical, dis-
lic school, secondary school, seminary. 2 a
believing, distrustful, doubting, du-
school of whales, shoal. t> g r o u p . • vb
bious, incredulous, mistrustful, t> EDUCATE.
questioning, scoffing, suspicious,
uncertain, unconvinced, unsure. Opp science n organized knowledge, sys-
CONFIDENT. tematic study. □ acoustics, aeronautics,
agricultural science, anatomy, anthro-
scepticism n agnosticism, cyni-
pology, artifical intelligence, astronomy,
cism, disbelief, distrust, doubt, dubi- astrophysics, behavioural science, bio-
ety, incredulity, lack of confidence, chemistry, biology, biophysics, botany,
mistrust, suspicion. Opp f a it h . chemistry, climatology, computer science,
schedule n agenda, calendar, diaiy, cybernetics, dietetics, domestic science,
itinerary, list, plan, programme, dynamics, earth science, ecology, eco-
register, scheme, timetable. • vb nomics, electronics, engineering, ento-
appoint, arrange, assign, book, ear- mology, environmental science, food
mark, fix a time, organize, outline, science, genetics, geographical science,
plan, programme, time, timetable. geology, geophysics, hydraulics, informa-
367 scowl
tion technology, life science, linguistics, chalk up, earn, gain, inf knock up,
materials science, mathematics, mech- make, tally, win. 2 score a groove, cut,
anics, medical science, metallurgy, met- engrave, gouge, incise, mark, scrape,
eorology, microbiology, mineralogy, scratch, slash. 3 score music, orches-
ornithology, pathology, pharmacology, trate, write out. settle a score t>
physics, physiology, political science, psy- RETALIATE.
chology, robotics, sociology, space tech-
scorn n contempt, contumely, deri-
nology, telecommunications, thermo-
dynamics, toxicology, veterinary science, sion, detestation, disdain, disgust,
dislike, dismissal, disparagement,
zoology.
disrespect, jeering, mockery, rejec-
scientific adj analytical, method- tion, ridicule, scoffing, sneering,
ical, meticulous, orderly, organized, taunt-ing. Opp a d m ir a t io n . • vb be
precise, rational, regulated, rigorous, scornful about, contemn, deride,
systematic. despise, disapprove of, disdain, dis-
scientist n inf boffin, researcher, sci- like, dismiss, disparage, hate, insult,
entific expert, technologist. jeer at, laugh at, look down on, make
scintillating adj brilliant, clever, fun of, mock, reject, ridicule, inf scoff
coruscating, dazzling, effervescent, at, sneer at, spurn, taunt, inf turn up
flashing, glittering, lively, sparkling, your nose at. Opp a d m ir e .
vivacious, witty. Opp d u l l . scornful adj condescending, con-
scoff vb 1 belittle, be sarcastic, be temptuous, contumelious, depreca-
scornful, deride, disparage, gibe, jeer, tive, derisive, disdainful, dismissive,
jibe, laugh, mock, inf poke fun, disparaging, disrespectful, haughty,
ridicule, sneer, taunt, tease. 2 t> e a t . insulting, jeering, mocking, patron-
scold vb admonish, berate, blame,
izing, sarcastic, satirical, scathing,
inf carpet, castigate, censure, chide, scoffing, sneering, inf snide, inf
criticize, disapprove of, find fault snooty, supercilious, superior, taunt-
with, inf jump down someone’s ing, withering. Opp r e s pe c t f u l .
throat, inf lecture, inf nag, rate, scoundrel n blackguard, blighter,
rebuke, reprehend, reprimand, bounder, cad, good-for-nothing, heel,
reproach, reprove, inf slate, inf tell knave, miscreant, rascal, rogue,
off, inf tick off, upbraid. ruffian, scallywag, scamp, villain,
scoop n 1 bailer, ladle, shovel, wretch.
spoon. 2 news scoop, exclusive, inside scour vb 1 abrade, buff up, burnish,
story, inf latest, revelation. • vb dig, clean, cleanse, polish, rub, scrape,
excavate, gouge, hollow, scrape, scrub, shine, wash. 2 scour the house.
shovel, spoon. comb, forage through, hunt through,
scope n 1 ambit, area, breadth, com- rake through, ransack, rummage
pass, competence, extent, field, limit, through, search, inf turn upside
range, reach, span, sphere, terms of down.
reference. 2 scope for expansion, capa- scourge n 1 affliction, bane, curse,
city, chance, inf elbow-room, free- evil, misery, misfortune, plague, tor-
dom, latitude, leeway, liberty, oppor- ment, woe. 2 > w h ip . • vb beat, belt,
tunity, outlet, room, space, spread. flagellate, flog, horsewhip, lash,
scorch vb blacken, brand, burn, whip.
char, heat, roast, sear, singe.
scout n lookout, spy. • vb explore,
score n 1 account, amount, count, get information, hunt around, in-
marks, points, reckoning, result, vestigate, look about, reconnoitre,
sum, tally, total. 2 score on furniture. search, inf snoop, spy.
cut, groove, incision, line, mark,
nick, scrape, scratch, slash. • vb scowl vb frown, glower, grimace, inf
1 account for, achieve, add up, inf look daggers, lower.
scraggy 368

scraggy adj bony, emaciated, gaunt, scrawl vb doodle, scribble, write hur-
lanky, lean, scrawny, skinny, starved, riedly. > w r it e .
thin, underfed. Opp pl u mp . scream n & vb bawl, caterwaul, cry,
scramble n commotion, confusion, howl, roar, screech, shout, shriek,
in/free-for-all, haste, hurry, melee, squeal, wail, yell, yowl.
race, rush, scrimmage, struggle. • vb screen n 1 blind, curtain, divider,
1 clamber, climb, crawl, grope, move partition. 2 camouflage, conceal-
awkwardly, scrabble. 2 scramble for ment, cover, disguise, protection,
gold, compete, contend, dash, fight, shelter, shield, smokescreen. 3 si/t
hasten, hurry, jostle, push, run, rush, through a screen, filter, mesh, riddle,
scuffle, strive, struggle, tussle, vie. 3 sieve, strainer. • vb 1 divide, partition
scramble a message, confuse, jumble, off, subdivide, wall off. 2 camouflage,
mix up. cloak, conceal, cover, disguise, guard,
scrap n 1 atom, bit, crumb, fraction, hide, mask, protect, safeguard,
fragment, grain, hint, iota, jot, mite, shade, shelter, shield, shroud, veil.
molecule, morsel, particle, piece, rag, 3 screen employees for security, in/check
scintilla, shard, shred, sliver, snip- out, examine, investigate, process,
pet, speck, trace. 2 in/junk, leavings, sift out, vet.
littef, odds and ends, offcuts, refuse, screw n 1 bolt, screw-bolt. 2 rota-
rejects, remains, remnants, residue, tion, spiral, turn, twist. • vb rotate,
rubbish, salvage, waste. 3 a friendly turn, twist, screw down > f a s t e n .
scrap, argument, quarrel, scuffle, inf screw up > b u n g l e , t w is t .
set-to, squabble, tiff, tussle, wrangle.
> f ig h t . • vb 1 abandon, cancel, dis- scribble vb > s c r a w l .
card, inf ditch, drop, give up, jet- scribe n amanuensis, clerk, copyist,
tison, throw away, write off. 2 secretary, transcriber, writer.
scrap over trifles, argue, bicker, flare script n 1 calligraphy, handwriting,
up, quarrel, spar, squabble, tussle, penmanship. 2 script of a play.
wrangle. > f ig h t . libretto, screenplay, text, words.
scrape n 1 abrasion, graze, injuiy, scripture n bible, holy writ, sacred
laceration, scratch, scuff, wound. writings, Word of God. □ Bhagavad-
2 an awkward scrape, difficulty, Gita, inf the Good Book, the Gospel, Holy
escapade, inf kettle of fish, piece of Bible, Koran, Upanishad.
mischief, plight, prank, predicament, scrounge vb beg, cadge, importune,
trouble. • vb 1 abrade, bark, bruise,
damage, graze, injure, lacerate, scrub vb 1 brush, clean, rub, scour,
scratch, scuff, skin, wound. 2 scrape wash. 2 > CANCEL.
clean, clean, file, rasp, rub, scour, scruffy adj bedraggled, dirty, dishev-
scrub, scrape together t> c o l l e c t . elled, disordered, dowdy, frowsy,
scrappy adj bitty, careless, dis- messy, ragged, scrappy, shabby, slat-
jointed, fragmentary, hurriedly done, ternly, slovenly, tatty, ungroomed,
imperfect, incomplete, inconclusive, unkempt, untidy, worn out. Opp
sketchy, slipshod, unfinished, unpol- SMART.
ished, unsatisfactory. Opp pe r f e c t . scruple n compunction, conscience,
scratch n abrasion, damage, dent, doubt, hesitation, misgiving, qualm,
gash, gouge, graze, groove, indenta- reluctance, inf second thought. • vb
tion, injury, laceration, line, mark, [usu neg] be reluctant, have a con-
score, scoring, scrape, scuff, wound. science (about), have scruples
• vb abrade, claw at, cut, damage the (about), hesitate, hold back (from),
surface of, dent, gash, gouge, graze, in/think twice (about).
groove, incise, injure, lacerate, mark, scrupulous adj 1 careful, cautious,
rub, scarify, score, scrape, scuff, conscientious, diligent, exacting, fas-
wound, up to scratch > s a t is f a c t o r y . tidious, inf finicky, meticulous,
 369
seclusion
minute, neat, painstaking, precise, squalid, unattractive, unpleasant,
punctilious, rigid, rigorous, strict, unsavoury, unwholesome.
systematic, thorough. 2 scrupulous search n check, enquiry, examina-
honesty, ethical, fair-minded, honest, tion, hunt, inspection, investigation,
honourable, just, moral, principled, look, inf probe, pursuit, quest,
proper, upright, upstanding. Opp scrutiny. • vb 1 cast about, explore,
UNSCRUPULOUS. ferret about, hunt, investigate, inf
scrutinize vb analyse, check, exam- leave no stone unturned, look, nose
ine, inf go over with a toothcomb, about, poke about, prospect, pry,
inspect, investigate, look closely at, seek. 2 search suspects, check, exam-
inf probe, sift, study. ine, inf frisk, inspect, scrutinize.
scrutiny n analysis, examination, 3 search a house, comb, go through,
inspection, investigation, probing, ransack, rifle, rummage through,
search, study. scour, searching > in q u is it iv e , t h o r -
ough.
sculpture n three-dimensional art.
seaside n beach, coast, coastal
□ bas-relief bronze, bust, carving, cary- resort, sands, sea-coast, sea-shore,
atid, cast, ejfigy, figure, figurine, ma- shore.
quette, marble, moulding, plaster cast,
relief, statue, statuette. • vb carve, cast, season n period, phase, time. • vb
chisel, fashion, form, hew, model, 1 add seasoning to, flavour, inf pep
mould, inf sculpt, shape. up, salt, spice. 2 season wood, age,
harden, mature, ripen.
scum n dirt, film, foam, froth, im-
purities, suds. seasonable adj appropriate, apt,
convenient, favourable, fitting, nor-
scurrilous adj abusive, calumnious, mal, opportune, propitious, suitable,
coarse, defamatory, derogatory, dis- timely, well-timed.
paraging, foul, indecent, insulting, seasoning n additives, condiments,
libellous, low, obscene, offensive, flavouring, relish, zest. □ dressing,
opprobrious, scabrous, shameful, herbs, mustard, pepper, salt, sauce, spice,
slanderous, vile, vulgar. vinegar.
sea adj aquatic, marine, maritime, seat n 1 place, sitting-place. □ arm-
nautical, naval, ocean-going, oceanic, chair, bench, carver, chair, chaise longue,
salt-water, seafaring, seagoing. • n couch, deck-chair, dining-chair, easy
inf briny, poet deep, lake, old use main, chair, Fr fauteuil, form, pew, pillion,
ocean. pouffe, reclining chair, rocking-chair,
seal n 1 sea-lion, walrus. 2 royal seal. saddle, settee, settle, sofa, squab, stall,
badge, coat of arms, crest, emblem, stool, throne, window seat. 2 a country
escutcheon, impression, imprint, seat. > r e s id e n c e . 3 > b u t t o c k s , seat
mark, monogram, sign, stamp, sym- yourself > SIT.
bol, token. • vb 1 close, fasten, lock, secateurs plur n clippers, cutters,
make airtight, make watertight, pruning shears.
plug, secure, shut, stick down, stop secluded adj cloistered, concealed,
up. 2 seal an agreement, affirm, cut off, hidden, inaccessible, isolated,
authenticate, inf clinch, conclude, lonely, monastic, inf off the beaten
confirm, corroborate, decide, en- track, private, remote, retired,
dorse, finalize, guarantee, ratify, set- screened, sequestered, sheltered,
tle, sign, validate, verify. shut away, solitary, unfrequented,
seam n 1 join, stitching. 2 seam of unvisited. Opp pu b l ic .
coal, bed, layer, lode, stratum, thick- seclusion n concealment, hiding,
ness, vein. isolation, loneliness, privacy, remote-
seamy adj disreputable, distasteful, ness, retirement, separation, shelter,
nasty, repulsive, shameful, sordid, solitariness.
second 370

second adj added, additional, al- secrete vb 1 cloak, conceal, cover

ternative, another, complement- up, disguise, enshroud, hide, mask,
ary, duplicate, extra, following, fur- put away, put into hiding. 2 secrete
ther, later, matching, next, other, fluid, discharge, emit, excrete, exude,
repeated, subsequent, twin. • n give off, leak, ooze, produce, release.
1 flash, instant, infjiffy, moment, inf secretion n discharge, emission,
tick, inf twinkling, inf wink. 2 second escape, excretion, leakage, release.
in a fight. assistant, deputy, helper, inf
number two, inf right-hand man, secretive adj close-lipped, enig-
right-hand woman, second-in-com- matic, furtive, mysterious, quiet,
mand, inf stand-in, subordinate, sup- reserved, reticent, secret, shifty,
porter, understudy, vice-. • vb 1 aid, silent, taciturn, tight-lipped, uncom-
assist, back, encourage, give approval municative, unforthcoming, with-
to, help, promote, side with, spon- drawn. Opp COMMUNICATIVE.
sor, support. 2 second to another job. sect n cult, denomination, faction,
move, reassign, relocate, shift, trans- order, party, persuasion. > g r o u p .
fer.
sectarian adj bigoted, clannish,
secondary adj 1 alternative, ancil- cliquish, cultic, denominational, dog-
lary, auxiliary, inf backup, extra, matic, exclusive, factional, fanatical,
inessential, inferior, lesser, lower, inflexible, narrow, narrow-minded,
minor, nonessential, reinforcing, partial, partisan, prejudiced, rigid,
reserve, second, second-rate, spare, schismatic.
subordinate, subsidiary, supplemen-
tary, supporting, supportive, unim- section n bit, branch, chapter, com-
portant. 2 secondary sources, copied, partment, component, department,
derivative, second-hand, unoriginal. division, element, fraction, fragment,
second-hand adj 1 inf hand-me-
group, instalment, leg (of journey),
down, old, used, worn. Opp n e w . part, passage, piece, portion, quar-
2 second-hand experience, indirect,
ter, sample, sector, segment, slice,
secondary, vicarious. Opp d ir e c t . stage, subdivision, subsection.
second-rate adj commonplace, sector n area, district, division, part,
indifferent, inferior, low-grade, quarter, region, zone. > s e c t io n .
mediocre, middling, ordinary, poor, secular adj civil, earthly, lay, ma-
second-best, second-class, undistin- terial, mundane, non-religious,
guished, unexciting, uninspiring. temporal, terrestrial, worldly. Opp
secret adj 1 clandestine, concealed, RELIGIOUS.
covert, disguised, hidden, inf hushed secure adj 1 cosy, defended,
up, inf hush-hush, invisible, private, guarded, immune, impregnable,
secluded, shrouded, stealthy, under- invulnerable, protected, safe, shel-
cover, underground, unknown. t> tered, shielded, snug, unharmed,
s e c r e t iv e . 2 secret papers, classified, unhurt, unscathed. 2 secure doors.
confidential, inaccessible, intimate, bolted, burglarproof, closed, fast,
personal, restricted, sensitive, top- fastened, fixed, foolproof, immov-
secret, undisclosed, unpublished. able, locked, shut, solid, tight, un-
3 secret meanings, arcane, cryptic, yielding. 3 secure faith, certain, con-
encoded, esoteric, incomprehensible, fident, firm, stable, steady, strong,
mysterious, occult, recondite. 4 secret sure, unquestioning. • vb 1 defend,
about his private life. t> s e c r e t iv e . Opp guard, make safe, preserve, protect,
OPEN, PUBLIC. shelter, shield. 2 anchor, attach,
secretary n amanuensis, clerk, fil- bolt, close, fix, lock, make fast, screw
ing-clerk, personal assistant, scribe, down, tie down. > f a s t e n . 3 secure a
shorthand-typist, stenographer, typ- loan, acquire, be promised, come by,
ist, word-processor operator. gain, get, obtain, procure, win.
 371 segregation
sedate adj calm, collected, com- ceive, realize, take in, understand.
posed, controlled, conventional, cool, 3 see problems ahead, anticipate, con-
decorous, deliberate, dignified, ceive, envisage, foresee, foretell,
equable, even-tempered, formal, imagine, picture, visualize. 4 see what
grave, imperturbable, level-headed, can be done, consider, decide, discover,
peaceful, derog prim, proper, quiet, investigate, mull over, reflect on,
sensible, serene, serious, slow, sober, think about, weigh up. 5 see a play.
solemn, staid, strait-laced, tranquil, attend, be a spectator at, watch. 6 see-
unruffled. Opp l iv e l y . • vb calm, put ing him tonight, court, go out with,
to sleep, tranquillize, treat with inf have a date with, meet, socialize
sedatives. with, visit, woo. 7 see you home.
sedative adj anodyne, calming, len- accompany, conduct, escort. 8 saw
itive, narcotic, relaxing, soothing, fighting in the war. endure, experi-
soporific, tranquillizing. • n anodyne, ence, go through, suffer, survive,
barbiturate, calmative, depressant, undergo. 9 Guess who I saw today!
narcotic, opiate, sleeping-pill, encounter, face, meet, run into, talk
soporific, tranquillizer. to, visit, see to > o r g a n iz e .
sedentary adj desk-bound, immob- seed n 1 egg, embiyo, germ, ovule,
ile, inactive, seated, sitting down. Opp ovum, semen, spawn, sperm, spore.
ACTIVE. 2 seed in fruit, pip, pit, stone. • vb >
sow.
sediment n deposit, dregs, grounds,
lees, precipitate, remains, residue, seek vb aim at, apply for, ask for,
inf sludge. aspire to, beg for, demand, desire,
sedition n agitation, incitement,
go after, hope for, hunt for, inquire
insurrection, mutiny, rabblerousing, after, look for, pursue, quest after,
revolt, treachery, treason. > r e b e l - request, search for, solicit, strive
after, try for, want, wish for.
l io n .
seduce vb 1 allure, beguile, charm, seem vb appear, feel, give an impres-
corrupt, deceive, decoy, deprave, sion of being, have an appearance of
ensnare, entice, inveigle, lead astray, being, look, pretend to be, sound.
lure, mislead, tempt. 2 debauch, seep vb dribble, drip, exude, flow,
deflower, dishonour, rape, ravish, old leak, ooze, percolate, run, soak,
use ruin, violate. trickle.
seduction n 1 allurement, attrac- seer n clairvoyant, fortune-teller, or-
tion, charm, temptation. 2 rape, rav- acle, prophet, prophetess, psychic,
ishing. > SEX. sibyl, soothsayer, vaticinator.
seductive adj alluring, appealing, seethe vb be agitated, be angiy, boil,
attractive, bewitching, captivating, bubble, erupt, foam, froth up, rise,
charming, coquettish, enchanting, simmer, stew, surge.
enticing, flirtatious, inviting, irres-
segment n bit, compartment,
istible, persuasive, provocative, inf department, division, element, frac-
sexy, tantalizing, tempting. Opp
tion, fragment, part, piece, portion,
REPULSIVE. quarter, section, sector, slice, subdi-
see vb 1 behold, catch sight of, vision, subsection, wedge.
descry, discern, discover, distinguish,
segregate vb compartmentalize, cut
espy, glimpse, identify, look at, make
off, exclude, isolate, keep apart, put
out, mark, note, notice, observe, per-
apart, separate, sequester, set apart,
ceive, recognize, regard, sight, spot,
spy, view, watch, witness. 2 see what shut out.
someone means, appreciate, appre- segregation n 1 apartheid, dis-
hend, comprehend, fathom, follow, crimination. 2 isolation, quarantine,
inf get the hang of, grasp, know, per- seclusion, separation.
seize 372

seize vb 1 abduct, apprehend, arrest, nicative, undemonstrative, unemo-

capture, catch, clutch, inf collar, tional.
detain, grab, grasp, grip, hold, inf self-control n calmness, compos-
nab, pluck, possess, snatch, take, ure, coolness, patience, resolve,
take into custody, take prisoner. restraint, self-command, self-denial,
2 seize a country, annex, invade. 3 seize self-discipline, self-possession, self-
property, appropriate, commandeer, restraint, will-power.
confiscate, hijack, impound, steal, self-denial n abstemiousness, fast-
take away. Opp r e l e a s e , seize up > ing, moderation, self-abnegation,
STICK. self-sacrifice, temperance, unselfish-
seizure n 1 abduction, annexation, ness. Opp SELFINDULGENCE.
appropriation, arrest, capture, con- self-employed adj freelance, inde-
fiscation, hijacking, invasion, se- pendent.
questration, theft, usurpation.
2 [medical] apoplexy, attack, convul- self-esteem n 1 > s e l f -r e s pe c t .
sion, epileptic fit, fit, paroxysm, 2 arrogance, inf big-headedness,
spasm, stroke. conceit, egotism, overconfidence,
self-admiration, self-importance, self-
seldom adv infrequently, occasion- love, smugness, vanity.
ally, rarely.
self-explanatory adj apparent,
select adj best, choice, chosen, elite, axiomatic, blatant, clear, conspicu-
excellent, exceptional, exclusive, ous, eye-catching, flagrant, glaring,
favoured, finest, first-class, first-rate, inescapable, manifest, obvious,
inf hand-picked, preferred, prime, patent, plain, recognizable, self-
privileged, rare, selected, special, top- evident, understandable, unmistak-
quality. Opp o r d in a r y . • vb appoint, able, visible.
cast (actor for role), choose, decide on,
self-governing adj autonomous,
elect, nominate, opt for, pick, pre-
fer, settle on, single out, vote for. free, independent, sovereign.
self-important adj arrogant, bom-
selection n 1 choice, option, pick,
bastic, conceited, grandiloquent,
preference. 2 a selection of goods.
haughty, magisterial, ostentatious,
assortment, range, variety. 3 selection
pompous, pontifical, pretentious,
from the classics, excerpts, extracts,
self-centred, sententious, smug, inf
passages, quotations.
snooty, inf stuckup, supercilious,
selective adj careful, inf choosy, dis- vainglorious.
cerning, discriminating, particular,
self-indulgence n extravagance,
specialized. Opp c o mpr e h e n s iv e , impe r -
gluttony, greed, hedonism, pleasure,
CEPTTVE.
profligacy, self-gratification. > s e l f -
self-confident adj assertive, is h n e s s . Opp SELF-DENIAL.
assured, collected, cool, fearless, self-indulgent adj dissipated, epi-
independent, outgoing, poised, pos- curean, extravagant, gluttonous,
itive, self-assured, self-possessed, gourmandizing, greedy, hedonistic,
self-reliant, sure of yourself. > b o l d . immoderate, intemperate, pleasure-
Opp SELFCONSCIOUS.
loving, profligate, sybaritic. > s e l f -
self-conscious adj awkward, bash- is h . Opp ABSTEMIOUS.
ful, blushing, coy, diffident, embar- selfish adj acquisitive, avaricious,
rassed, ill at ease, insecure, nervous, covetous, demanding, egocentric,
reserved, self-effacing, sheepish, shy, egotistic, grasping, greedy, inconsid-
uncomfortable, unnatural. t> t imid . erate, mean, mercenary, miserly,
Opp s e l f -c o n f id e n t . self-absorbed, self-centred, self-indul-
self-contained adj 1 complete, gent, self-interested, self-seeking,
independent, separate. 2 aloof, cold, self-serving, inf stingy, thoughtless,
reserved, self-reliant, uncommu- uncaring, ungenerous, unhelpful,
 373
sense
unsympathetic, worldly. Opp send vb 1 address, consign, convey,
UNSELFISH. deliver, direct, dispatch, fax, forward,
selfishness n acquisitiveness, av- mail, post, remit, ship, transmit.
arice, covetousness, egotism, greed, 2 send a rocket to the moon, fire,
meanness, miserliness, niggardli- launch, project, propel, release,
ness, possessiveness, self-indulgence, shoot, send away > d is m is s , send
self-interest, selflove, self-regard, inf down > impr is o n , send for > s u mmo n .
stinginess, thoughtlessness. send-off n > g o o d b y e , send out >
e m it , send round > c ir c u l a t e , send
self-reliant adj autonomous, inde-
up > PARODY.
pendent, self-contained, self-suffi-
cient, self-supporting. senile adj declining, doddery, inf in
self-respect n Fr amour propre, your dotage, old, derog past it.
dignity, honour, integrity, morale, senior adj chief, elder, higher, high-
pride, self-confidence, self-esteem. ranking, major, older, principal,
self-righteous adj complacent, inf revered, superior, well-established.
goody-goody, inf holier-than-thou, Opp JUNIOR.
mealy-mouthed, Pharisaical, pietis- sensation n 1 awareness, feeling,
tic, pious, pompous, priggish, proud, perception, sense. 2 affair caused a
sanctimonious, self-important, self- sensation, commotion, excitement,
satisfied, sleek, smug, superior, vain. furore, outrage, scandal, stir, thrill.
self-sufficient adj autonomous,
independent, self-reliant, self-sup- sensational adj 1 blood-curdling,
porting. hair-raising, lurid, melodramatic,
overwritten, scandal-mongering,
self-willed adj determined, dogged, shocking, startling, stimulating,
forceful, headstrong, inflexible, in- violent. 2 [inf a sensational result.
tractable, intransigent, inf mulish, amazing, astonishing, astounding,
obstinate, inf pigheaded, single- breathtaking, electrifying, exciting,
minded, inf stiffnecked, stubborn, extraordinary, inf fabulous, inf fan-
uncontrollable, uncooperative, wil- tastic, inf great, incredible, mar-
ful. vellous, remarkable, spectacular,
sell vb 1 auction, barter, deal in, spine-tingling, stirring, superb, sur-
exchange, give in part-exchange, prising, thrilling, unbelievable, unex-
handle, hawk, inf keep, inf knock pected, wonderful.
down, offer for sale, peddle, inf put
sense n 1 awareness, consciousness,
under the hammer, retail, sell off,
faculty, feeling, sensation. □ hearing,
stock, tout, trade, inf trade in (traded
sight, smell, taste, touch. 2 brains,
in my car), traffic in, vend. 2 sell hard.
cleverness, gumption, intellect, in-
advertise, market, merchandise,
telligence, intuition, judgement,
package, promote, inf push.
logic, inf nous, perception, reason,
seller n dealer, merchant, stockist, reasoning, understanding, wisdom,
supplier, trader, vendor. □ agent, bar- wit. 3 the sense of a message, coher-
row-boy, broker, old use colporteur, ence, connotations, denotation, inf
costermonger, old use hawker, market- drift, gist, import, intelligibility, in-
trader, pedlar, inf rep, representative, terpretation, meaning, message,
retailer, salesman, salesperson, sales- point, purport, significance, signif-
woman, shop assistant, shopkeeper, store- ication, substance. • vb be aware (of),
keeper, street trader, tradesman, traveller, detect, discern, divine, feel, guess,
wholesaler. > s h o p . inf have a hunch, intuit, notice, per-
seminal adj basic, constructive, cre- ceive, inf pick up vibes, realize, res-
ative, fertile, formative, imaginative, pond to, suspect, understand. > f e e l ,
important, influential, innovative, h e a r , s e e , s me l l , t a s t e , make sense
new, original, primary, productive. of > u n d e r s t a n d .
senseless 374

senseless adj 1 anaesthetized, demn, pass judgement on, pro-

asleep, comatose, insensate, insens- nounce sentence on.
ible, knocked out, numb, inf out sentiment n 1 attitude, belief, idea,
like a light, stunned, unconscious. judgement, opinion, outlook,
2 absurd, crazy, fatuous, meaning- thought, view. 2 sentiment of a poem.
less, pointless, purposeless, silly. > emotion, feeling, sensibility.
STUPID.
sentimental adj 1 compassionate,
sensible adj 1 calm, common-sense, emotional, nostalgic, romantic, soft-
commonsensical, cool, discreet, dis- hearted, sympathetic, tearful, ten-
criminating, intelligent, judicious, der, warm-hearted, inf weepy.
level-headed, logical, prudent, ra- 2 [derog] gushing, inf gushy, indul-
tional, realistic, reasonable, reas- gent, insincere, maudlin, mawkish,
oned, sage, sane, serious-minded, inf mushy, overdone, over-emotional,
sound, straightforward, thoughtful, inf sloppy, inf soppy, inf sugary, tear-
wise. Opp s t u pid . 2 sensible phenom- jerking, inf treacly, unrealistic, si
ena. corporeal, existent, material, yucky. Opp c y n ic a l .
palpable, perceptible, physical, real,
sentimentality n bathos, emotion-
tangible, visible. 3 sensible clothes.
alism, insincerity, inf kitsch, mawk-
comfortable, functional, inf no-
nonsense, practical, useful. Opp ishness, nostalgia, inf slush.
FASHIQNABLE, IMPRACTICAL, sensible sentry n guard, lookout, patrol,
of acquainted with, alert to, alive picket, sentinel, watch, watchman.
to, appreciative of, aware of, cog- separable adj detachable, distin-
nizant of, in touch with, mindful of, guishable, fissile, removable.
responsive to, inf wise to.
separate adj apart, autonomous,
sensitive adj 1 considerate, per- cloistered, cut off, detached, differ-
ceptive, reactive, receptive, re- ent, discrete, disjoined, distinct,
sponsive, susceptible, sympathetic, divided, divorced, fenced off, free-
tactful, thoughtful, understanding. standing, independent, individual,
2 a sensitive temperament, emo- isolated, particular, peculiar, se-
tional, hypersensitive, impression- cluded, segregated, separated, shut
able, temperamental, thin-skinned, off, solitary, unattached, uncon-
touchy, volatile, vulnerable. 3 sensitive nected, unique, unrelated, unshared,
skin, delicate, fine, fragile, painful, withdrawn. • vb 1 break up, cut off,
soft, sore, tender. 4 a sensitive topic. detach, discomiect, disengage, dis-
confidential, controversial, delicate, entangle, disjoin, dismember, disso-
inf tricky. Opp in s e n s it iv e , sensitive ciate, divide, fence off, fragment,
to affected by, attuned to, aware of, hive off, isolate, keep apart, part, pull
considerate of, perceptive about, apart, segregate, sever, split, sunder,
receptive to, responsive to, under- take apart, uncouple, unfasten,
standing about. unhook, unravel, unyoke. 2 Thepaths
sensual adj animal, bodily, carnal, separate here, bifurcate, branch,
fleshly, physical, pleasure-loving, self- diverge, fork. 3 separated the grain
indulgent, voluptuous, worldly. t> from the chaff, abstract, distinguish,
SEXY. Opp ASCETIC. filter out, remove, set apart, sift out,
winnow. 4 He separated from his part-
sensuous adj beautiful, emotional, ner. become estranged, disband,
gratifying, lush, luxurious, rich, divorce, part company, inf split up.
richly embellished. Opp COMBINE, UNITE.
sentence n 1 exclamation, ques- separation n 1 amputation, cutting
tion, statement, thought, utterance. off, detachment, disconnection, dis-
2 decision, judgement, pronounce- memberment, dissociation, division,
ment, punishment, ruling. • vb con- fission, fragmentation, parting, rift,
375 service
severance, splitting. Opp c o n n e c t io n . sermon n address, discourse,
2 separation of partners, break, inf homily, lecture, lesson, talk.
break-up, divorce, estrangement, rift, serpentine adj labyrinthine, me-
split. Opp UNION. andering, roundabout, sinuous,
septic adj diseased, festering, snaking, tortuous, twisting, vermic-
infected, inflamed, poisoned, puru- ular, winding. Opp s t r a ig h t .
lent, putrefying, putrid, suppurating. serrated adj cogged, crenellated,
sequel n consequence, continuation, denticulate, indented, jagged,
development, inf follow-up, issue, notched, saw-like, toothed, zigzag.
outcome, result, upshot. Opp STRAIGHT.
sequence n 1 arrangement, chain, servant n assistant, attendant, derog
concatenation, course, cycle, line, dogsbody, inf domestic, derog drudge,
order, procession, programme, pro- helper, derog hireling, derog menial,
gression, range, row, run, series, set, old use servitor, inf skivvy, slave, old
string, succession, train. 2 a sequence use vassal. □ au pair, barmaid, barman,
from a film, inf clip, episode, excerpt, batman, inf boots, butler, chamber-maid,
extract, scene, section. inf char, charwoman, chauffeur, chef,
cleaner, old use coachman, commission-
serene adj 1 calm, idyllic, peaceful, aire, cook, inf daily, errand boy, fac-
placid, pleasing, quiet, restful, still, totum, derog flunkey, footman, gover-
tranquil, unclouded, undisturbed, ness, groom, home help, houseboy, house-
unperturbed, unruffled, untroubled. maid, housekeeper, kitchenmaid, derog
2 serene temperament, collected, com- lackey, lady-in-waiting, maid, maidser-
posed, contented, cool, easy-going, vant, major-domo, manservant, nanny,
equable, even-tempered, imper- page, parlour-maid, old use postilion,
turbable, pacific, peaceable, poised, old use retainer, plur retinue, scout,
self-possessed, inf unflappable. Opp scullery maid, old use scullion, old use
BOISTEROUS, EXCITABLE. seneschal, slave, steward, stewardess,
series n 1 arrangement, chain, con- valet, waiter, waitress.
catenation, course, cycle, line, order, serve vb 1 accommodate, aid, assist,
procession, programme, progression, attend, inf be at someone’s beck and
range, row, run, sequence, set, call, further, help, look after, minis-
string, succession, train. 2 TV series. ter to, wait upon, work for. 2 serve in
mini-series, serial, inf soap, soap- the forces, be employed, do your duty,
opera. enlist, fight, sign on. 3 serve goods.
serious adj 1 dignified, grave, grim, deal out, distribute, dole out, give
humourless, long-faced, pensive, out, make available, provide, sell,
poker-faced, sedate, sober, solemn, supply. 4 serve at table, carve, inf dish
sombre, staid, stern, straight-faced, up, officiate, wait. 5 serve a sentence.
thoughtful, unsmiling. Opp c h e e r f u l . complete, endure, go through, pass,
2 serious discussion, deep, earnest, spend, survive.
heavy, honest, important, intellec- service n 1 aid, assistance, benefit,
tual, momentous, profound, signifi- favour, help, kindness, office. 2 service
cant, sincere, weighty. 3 serious illness. of the community, attendance (on),
acute, appalling, awful, calamitous, employment (by), ministering (to),
critical, dangerous, dreadful, fright- work (for). 3 a bus service, business,
ful, ghastly, grievous, hideous, hor- organization, provision, system,
rible, in/life-and-death, nasty, severe, timetable. 4 give the car a service.
shocking, terrible, unfortunate, check-over, maintenance, overhaul,
unpleasant, urgent, violent. Opp repair, servicing. 5 church service.
t r iv ia l . 4 serious worker, careful, ceremony, liturgy, meeting, rite,
committed, conscientious, diligent, ritual, worship. □ baptism, christening,
hard-working. communion, compline, evensong, fu-
serviceable 376

neral, marriage, Mass, matins. Requiem > IGNITE, set out t> DEPART. Set up >
Mass, vespers. • vb service a vehicle. ESTABLISH.
check, maintain, mend, overhaul, set-back n inf blow, check, com-
repair, tune. plication, defeat, delay, difficulty,
serviceable adj dependable, disappointment, hindrance, inf
durable, functional, hard-wearing, hitch, hold-up, impediment, mis-
lasting, practical, strong, tough, fortune, obstacle, problem, relapse,
usable. reverse, snag, upset.
settee n chaise longue, couch, sofa,
servile adj abject, acquiescent, base,
inf boot-licking, craven, cringing, de- setting n 1 background, context,
ferential, fawning, flattering, grovel- environment, environs, frame, hab-
ling, humble, ingratiating, low, itat, locale, location, place, position,
menial, obsequious, slavish, submis- site, surroundings. 2 setting for a play.
sive, subservient, sycophantic, inf backcloth, backdrop, scene, scenery,
time-serving, toadying, unctuous. set.
Opp b o s s y , be servile > GROVEL. settle vb 1 arrange, conclude, deal
serving n helping, plateful, portion, with, decide, organize, put in order,
ration.; straighten out. 2 alight, come to rest,
land, light, inf make yourself com-
session n 1 assembly, conference, fortable, inf park yourself, pause,
discussion, hearing, meeting, sitting. rest, roost, sit down. 3 settle things in
2 a session at the baths, period, term, place, assign, deploy, deposit, dispose,
time. lay, locate, lodge, park, place, plant,
set adj 1 set price, advertised, agreed, position, put, rest, set, set down,
arranged, defined, definite, fixed, situate, stand, station. 4 the dust
prearranged, predetermined, pre- settled, calm down, clear, compact, go
pared, scheduled, standard. 2 set in down, sink, subside. 5 settle what to
your ways, established, invariable, do. agree, choose, decide, establish,
predictable, regular, stable, unchang- fix. 6 settle differences, end, negotiate,
ing, unvaiying. • n 1 batch, bunch, put an end to, reconcile, resolve, sort
category, class, clique, collection, out, square. 7 settle debts, clear, dis-
combination, kind, series, sort. > charge, pay, pay off. 8 settle new
g r o u p . 2 a TV set. apparatus, receiver. territory, become established in,
3 set for a play, scene, scenery, set- colonize, immigrate, make your
ting, stage. • vb 1 arrange, assign, home in, occupy, people, set up
deploy, deposit, dispose, lay, leave, home in, stay in.
locate, lodge, park, place, plant, inf settlement n 1 camp, colony, com-
plonk, put, position, rest, set down, munity, encampment, kibbutz, out-
set out, settle, situate, stand, station. post, post, town, village. 2 agree-
2 set a clock, adjust, correct, put right, ment, arbitration, arrangement,
rectify, regulate. 3 set a post in con- contract, payment.
crete. embed, fasten, fix. 4 set like con-
settler n colonist, frontiersman,
crete. become firm, congeal, inf gel, immigrant, newcomer, pioneer,
harden, inf jell, stiffen, take shape. squatter.
5 set a problem, ask, express, formu-
late, frame, phrase, pose, present, sever vb 1 amputate, break, cut off,
put forward, suggest, write. 6 set detach, disconnect, disjoin, part,
a target, allocate, allot, appoint, de- remove, separate, split, terminate. t>
cide, designate, determine, establish, c u t . 2 sever a relationship, abandon,
identify, name, ordain, prescribe, break off, discontinue, end, put an
settle, set about t> a t t a c k , b e g in . end to, suspend, terminate.
set free > u b e r a t e . set off > d e pa r t , several adj assorted, certain, differ-
e x pl o d e , set on t> a t t a c k , set on fire ent, divers, a few, a handful of,
377 shadowy
many, miscellaneous, a number of, sexuality n gender. □ bisexuality,
some, sundry, a variety of, various. hermaphroditism, heterosexuality, homo-
severe adj 1 aloof, brutal, cold, cold- sexuality.
hearted, cruel, disapproving, dour, sexy adj 1 amorous, carnal, concu-
exacting, forbidding, glowering, piscent, erotic, lascivious, lecherous,
grave, grim, hard, harsh, inexorable, derog lewd, libidinous, derog lubri-
merciless, obdurate, pitiless, relent- cious, lustful, passionate, provoc-
less, rigorous, stern, stony, strict, ative, derog prurient, inf randy,
unbending, uncompromising, un- seductive, sensual, sexual, inf sultry,
kind, unsmiling, unsympathetic, venereal, voluptuous. 2 attractive, inf
unyielding. 2 severe illness, acute, beddable, desirable, si dishy, flirta-
critical, dangerous, drastic, fatal, tious. 3 sexy books, aphrodisiac, arous-
great, intense, keen, life-threatening, ing, pornographic, si raunchy, sala-
mortal, nasty, serious, sharp, ter- cious, inf steamy, suggestive, titillat-
minal, troublesome. 3 severe penalties. ing, inf torrid. > o b s c e n e .
draconian, extreme, maximum, shabby adj 1 bedraggled, dilap-
oppressive, punitive, stringent. idated, dingy, dirty, dowdy, drab,
4 severe weather, adverse, bad, incle- faded, frayed, inf grubby, mangy, inf
ment, violent, inf wicked. t> c o l d , moth-eaten, ragged, run-down, inf
s t o r my . 5 a severe challenge, arduous, scruffy, seedy, tattered, inf tatty,
demanding, difficult, onerous, pun- threadbare, unattractive, worn,
ishing, taxing, tough. 6 severe style. worn-out. Opp s ma r t . 2 shabby behav-
austere, bare, chaste, plain, simple, iour. base, contemptible, despicable,
spartan, stark, unadorned. Opp disagreeable, discreditable, dishon-
FRIENDLY, MILD, ORNATE. est, dishonourable, disreputable,
sew vb baste, dam, hem, mend, ignoble, inf low-down, mean, nasty,
repair, stitch, tack. shameful, shoddy, unfair, unfriendly,
ungenerous, unkind, unworthy. Opp
sewage n effluent, waste. HONOURABLE.
sewer n drain, drainage, sanitation, shack n cabin, hovel, hut, lean-to,
septic tank, soak-away. shanty, shed.
sewing n dressmaking, embroidery, shade n 1 > s h a d o w . 2 awning,
mending, needlepoint, needlework, blind, canopy, covering, curtain,
tapestry. parasol, screen, shelter, shield,
umbrella, Venetian blind. 3 a shade of
sex n 1 gender, sexuality. 2 carnal blue, colour, hue, intensity, tinge,
knowledge, coition, coitus, congress, tint, tone. 4 shades of meaning, degree,
consummation of marriage, copula- difference, nicety, nuance, variation.
tion, coupling, fornication, inf going • vb 1 camouflage, conceal, cover,
to bed, incest, intercourse, intimacy, hide, mask, obscure, protect, screen,
love-making, masturbation, mating, shield, shroud, veil. 2 shade with pen-
orgasm, perversion, rape, seduction, cil. black out, block in, cross-hatch,
sexual intercourse, sexual relations, darken, fill in, make dark.
union, have sex (with) be intimate
shadow n 1 darkness, dimness,
(with), consummate marriage, copu-
dusk, gloom, obscurity, penumbra,
late (with), couple (with), fornicate
semi-darkness, shade, umbra. 2 The
(with), have sexual intercourse (with),
sun casts shadows, outline, shape, sil-
make love (to), mate (with), rape,
houette. 3 a shadow of doubt. > h in t .
ravish, si screw, seduce, unite (with).
• vb dog, follow, hunt, inf keep
sexism n inf chauvinism, discrim- tabs on, keep watch on, pursue,' stalk,
ination, prejudice. inf tag onto, tail, track, trail, watch.
sexual adj 1 genital, procreative, shadowy adj 1 dark, dim, faint,
progenitive, reproductive. 2 > s e x y . hazy, ill-defined, indefinite, indis-
shady 378

tinct, nebulous, obscure, unclear, sham adj artificial, bogus, counter-

unrecognizable, vague. > g h o s t l y . feit, ersatz, fake, false, fictitious,
2 > SHADY. fraudulent, imitation, make-believe,
mock, inf pretend, pretended, simu-
shady adj 1 poet bosky, cool, dark, lated, synthetic. • n counterfeit, fake,
dim, dusky, gloomy, leafy, shaded, fiction, fraud, hoax, imitation, make-
shadowy, sheltered, sunless. Opp believe, pretence, inf put-up job,
s u n n y . 2 a shady character, devious, simulation. • vb counterfeit, fake,
dishonest, disreputable, dubious, inf feign, imitate, make believe, pretend,
fishy, questionable, shifty, suspi- simulate.
cious, unreliable, untrustworthy. Opp
HONEST. shambles plur n 1 battlefield, scene
of carnage, slaughterhouse. 2 [inf]
shaft n 1 arrow, column, handle, chaos, confusion, devastation, dis-
helve, pillar, pole, post, rod, shank, order, mess, muddle, inf pigsty, inf
stanchion, stem, stick, upright. tip.
2 duct, mine, pit, tunnel, well, work- shame n 1 chagrin, degradation, dis-
ing. 3 shaft of light, beam, gleam, credit, disgrace, dishonour, distress,
laser, pencil, ray, streak. embarrassment, guilt, humiliation,
shaggy adj bushy, dishevelled, ignominy, infamy, loss of face, mor-
fibrous, fleecy, hairy, hirsute, mat- tification, obloquy, opprobrium,
ted, rough, tousled, unkempt, un- remorse, stain, stigma, vilification.
shorn, untidy, woolly. Opp s m o o t h . 2 a shame to mistreat him so. outrage,
pity, scandal, wickedness. • vb abash,
shake vb 1 convulse, heave, jump, chagrin, chasten, discomfit, discon-
quake, quiver, rattle, rock, shiver, cert, discountenance, disgrace,
shudder, sway, throb, totter, embarrass, humble, humiliate, make
tremble, vibrate, waver, wobble. 2 someone ashamed, mortify, inf put
shake your umbrella, agitate, brandish, someone in his/her place, inf show
flourish, gyrate, jar, jerk, inf jiggle, someone up.
infjoggle, jolt, oscillate, sway, swing,
twirl, twitch, vibrate, wag, inf shamefaced adj 1 abashed,
waggle, wave, inf wiggle. 3 The bad ashamed, chagrined, inf hang-dog,
news shook us. alarm, distress, disturb, humiliated, mortified, penitent, inf
frighten, perturb, inf rattle, shock, red-faced, remorseful, repentant,
startle, inf throw, unnerve, unsettle, sorry. 2 bashful, coy, embarrassed,
upset. > SURPRISE. modest, self-conscious, sheepish, shy,
timid. Opp SHAMELESS.
shaky adj 1 decrepit, dilapidated, shameful adj 1 a shameful crime.
feeble, flimsy, frail, insecure, pre- base, contemptible, deplorable, dis-
carious, ramshackle, rickety, rocky, graceful, ignoble, infamous, low,
shaking, unreliable, unsound, un- mean, outrageous, reprehensible,
steady, weak, wobbly. 2 a shaky scandalous, unworthy. > w ic k e d .
voice, faltering, quavering, quivering, 2 shameful to be found out. com-
trembling, tremulous. 3 a shaky start. promising, degrading, demeaning,
nervous, tentative, uncertain, under- discreditable, dishonourable, em-
confident, unimpressive, unpromis- barrassing, humiliating, ignomi-
ing. Opp STEADY, STRONG. nious, si infra dig, inglorious, lower-
shallow adj 1 shallow water. [There ing, mortifying, undignified. Opp
are no apt synonyms for this sense.] HONOURABLE.
2 shallow argument, empty, facile, fool- shameless adj 1 barefaced, bold,
ish, frivolous, glib, insincere, puerile, brazen, cheeky, cool, defiant,
silly, simple, inf skin-deep, slight, flagrant, hardened, impenitent,
superficial, trivial, unconvincing, impudent, incorrigible, insolent,
unscholarly, unthinking. Opp d e e p . unabashed, unashamed, unrepent-
 379
shed
ant. 2 shameless nudity, frank, honest, pected, vertical. 3 sharp focus, clear,
immodest, improper, indecorous, defined, distinct, focused, well-
open, rude, shocking, unblushing, defined. 4 a sharp storm, extreme,
unconcealed, undisguised, unself- heavy, intense, serious, severe, sud-
conscious. Opp SHAMEFACED. den, violent. 5 sharp frost, biting, bit-
shape n 1 body, build, figure, ter, keen, nippy. > c o l d . 6 sharp pain.
physique, profile, silhouette. 2 geo- acute, excruciating, painful, stab-
metrical shape, configuration, figure, bing, stinging. 7 sharp rejoinder.
form, format, model, mould, outline, acerbic, acid, acidulous, barbed, bit-
pattern. □ [two-dimensional] circle, ing, caustic, critical, cutting, hurtful,
diamond, ellipse, heptagon, hexagon, incisive, malicious, mocking, mor-
lozenge, oblong, octagon, oval, parallelo- dant, sarcastic, sardonic, scathing,
gram, pentagon, polygon, quadrant, spiteful, tart, trenchant, unkind,
quadrilateral, rectangle, rhomboid, rhom- venomous, vitriolic. 8 sharp mind.
bus, ring, semicircle, square, trapezium, acute, agile, alert, artful, astute,
trapezoid, triangle, [three-dimensional] bright, clever, crafty, inf cute, dis-
cone, cube, cylinder, decahedron, hemi- cerning, incisive, intelligent, observ-
sphere, hexahedron, octahedron, poly- ant, penetrating, perceptive, prob-
hedron, prism, pyramid, sphere. • vb ing, quick-witted, searching, shrewd,
adapt, adjust, carve, cast, cut, fash- inf smart. 9 sharp eyes, attentive,
ion, form, frame, give shape to, eagle-eyed, observant, inf peeled
model, mould, inf sculpt, sculpture, (keep your eyes peeled), quick, watchful,
whittle. wide-open. 10 sharp taste, smell, acid,
acrid, bitter, caustic, hot, piquant,
shapeless adj 1 amorphous, form- pungent, sour, spicy, tangy, tart.
less, indeterminate, irregular, neb- 11 sharp sound, clear, detached, ear-
ulous, undefined, unformed, un- splitting, high, high-pitched, pen-
structured, vague. 2 a shapeless figure. etrating, piercing, shrieking, shrill,
deformed, distorted, inf dumpy, flat, staccato, strident. Opp b l u n t , d u l l ,
misshapen, twisted, unattractive, SLIGHT.
unshapely. Opp s h a pe l y .
sharpen vb file, grind, hone, make
shapely adj attractive, comely, inf
sharp, strop, whet. Opp b l u n t .
curvaceous, elegant, good-looking,
graceful, neat, trim, inf voluptuous, sharpener n file, grindstone, hone,
well-proportioned. Opp s h a pe l e s s . pencil-sharpener, strop, whetstone.
share n allocation, allotment, shatter vb blast, break, break up,
allowance, bit, cut, division, due, burst, crack, crush, dash to pieces,
fraction, helping, part, percentage, demolish, destroy, disintegrate,
piece, portion, proportion, quota, explode, pulverize, shiver, smash, inf
ration, serving, si whack. • vb 1 al- smash to smithereens, splinter, split,
locate, allot, apportion, deal out, wreck, shattered > s u r pr is e d , w e a r y .
distribute, divide, dole out, inf go
sheaf n bunch, bundle, file, ream.
halves or shares (with), halve, par-
take of, portion out, ration out, shear vb clip, strip, trim. > c u t .
share out, split. 2 share work, be in- sheath n casing, covering, scabbard,
volved, cooperate, join, participate, sleeve.
take part, shared > j o in t .
sheathe vb cocoon, cover, encase,
sharp adj 1 acute, arrow-shaped, cut-
enclose, put away, put in a sheath,
ting, fine, jagged, keen, knife-edged,
wrap.
needle-sharp, pointed, razor-sharp,
sharpened, spiky, tapering. 2 sharp shed n hut, hutch, lean-to, outhouse,
bend, drop, abrupt, acute, angular, penthouse, potting-shed, shack, shel-
hairpin, marked, precipitous, sheer, ter, storehouse. • vb abandon, cast
steep, sudden, surprising, unex- off, discard, drop, let fall, moult,
sheen 380

pour off, scatter, shower, spill, shield. 2 shelter a runaway, accom-

spread, throw off. shed light > s h in e . modate, give shelter to, harbour,
sheen n brightness, burnish, glaze, hide, inf put up. sheltered > q u ie t .
gleam, glint, gloss, lustre, patina, shelve vb 1 defer, hold in abeyance,
polish, radiance, reflection, shimmer, lay aside, postpone, put off, put on
shine. ice. 2 > s l o pe .
sheep n ewe, lamb, mutton, ram, shield n 1 barrier, bulwark, defence,
wether. guard, protection, safeguard, screen,
sheepish adj abashed, ashamed, shelter. 2 a warrior’s shield, buckler,
bashful, coy, docile, embarrassed, heraldry escutcheon. • vb cover,
guilty, meek, mortified, reticent, self- defend, guard, keep safe, protect,
conscious, self-effacing, shamefaced, safeguard, screen, shade, shelter.
shy, timid. Opp s h a me l e s s . shift n 1 adjustment, alteration,
sheer adj 1 absolute, arrant, com- change, move, switch, transfer,
plete, downright, out-and-out, plain, transposition. 2 night shift, crew,
pure, simple, thoroughgoing, total, gang, group, period, inf stint, team,
unadulterated, unalloyed, unmitig- workforce. • vb adjust, alter, budge,
ated, unmixed, unqualified, utter. 2 a change, displace, reposition, switch,
sheer cliff, abrupt, perpendicular, pre- transfer, transpose. > mo v e , shift for
cipitous', steep, vertical. 3 sheer silk. yourself t> ma n a g e .
diaphahous, filmy, fine, flimsy,
gauzy, gossamer, inf see-through, shiftless adj idle, indolent, ineffect-
thin, translucent, transparent. ive, inefficient, inept, irresponsible,
lazy, unambitious, unenterprising.
sheet n 1 bedsheet, duvet cover. Opp RESOURCEFUL.
2 [paper] folio, leaf, page. 3 [glass, etc]
pane, panel, plate. 4 [ice, etc] blanket, shifty adj artful, canny, crafty, cun-
coating, covering, film, lamina, layer, ning, deceitful, designing, devious,
membrane, skin, veneer. 5 [water] dishonest, evasive, inf foxy, furtive,
area, expanse, surface. scheming, secretive, inf shady, inf
shelf n ledge, shelving. slippery, sly, treacherous, tricky,
untrustworthy, wily. Opp s t r a ig h t f o r -
shell n 1 carapace (of tortoise), case, war d.
casing, covering, crust, exterior,
facade, hull, husk, outside, pod. shimmer vb flicker, glimmer, glis-
2 fired shells at them, cartridge, pro- ten, ripple. t> s h in e .
jectile. • vb attack with gunfire, bar- shine n brightness, burnish, corus-
rage, bomb, bombard, fire at, shoot cation, glaze, gleam, glint, gloss,
at, strafe. glow, luminosity, lustre, patina,
shellfish n bivalve, crustacean, mol- phosphorescence, polish, radiance,
lusc. □ barnacle, clam, cockle, conch, reflection, sheen, shimmer, sparkle,
crab, crayfish, cuttlefish, limpet, lobster, varnish. • vb 1 beam, be luminous,
mussel, oyster, prawn, scallop, shrimp, blaze, coruscate, dazzle, emit fight,
whelk, winkle. flare, flash, glare, gleam, glint, glis-
shelter n 1 asylum, cover, haven, ten, glitter, glow, phosphoresce, radi-
lee, protection, refuge, safety, sanc- ate, reflect, scintillate, shed light,
tuaiy, security. 2 barrier, conceal- shimmer, sparkle, twinkle. 2 used to
ment, cover, fence, hut, roof, screen, shine at maths, be brilliant, be clever,
shield. 3 seek shelter for the night. do well, excel, inf make your mark,
accommodation, home, housing, stand out. 3 shine your shoes, brush,
lodging, resting-place. t> h o u s e . 4 air- buff up, burnish, clean, polish, rub
raid shelter, bunker. • vb 1 defend, up. shining > b r ig h t , c o n s pic u o u s .
enclose, guard, keep safe, protect, shingle n 1 gravel, pebbles, stones.
safeguard, screen, secure, shade, 2 roofing shingle, tile.
381 short
shiny adj bright, brilliant, burnished, shell, snipe at, strafe, inf take pot-
gleaming, glistening, glossy, glow- shots at. 3 shoot from your chair, bolt,
ing, luminous, lustrous, phosphor- dart, dash, fly, hurtle, leap, move
escent, polished, reflective, rubbed, quickly, race, run, rush, speed,
shimmering, shining, sleek, smooth. spring, streak. 4 plants shoot in the
Opp DULL. spring, bud, burgeon, develop, flour-
ship n boat. > v e s s e l . • vb carry, inf ish, grow, put out shoots, spring up,
cart, convey, deliver, feny, freight, sprout.
move, send, transport. shop n boutique, cash-and-cariy,
shirk vb avoid, dodge, duck, evade, department store, old use emporium,
get out of, neglect, shun, shirk work establishment, market, outlet,
be lazy, malinger, inf skive, slack. retailer, seller, store, wholesaler.
□ baker, betting shop, bookshop, butcher,
shiver n flutter, frisson, quiver, rat-
chandler, chemist, confectioner, couturier,
tle, shake, shudder, thrill, tremor,
creamery, dairy, delicatessen, draper,
vibration. • vb chatter, flap, flutter,
fishmonger, florist, garden-centre, green-
quake, quaver, quiver, rattle, shake, grocer, grocer, haberdasher, herbalist,
shudder, tremble, twitch, vibrate.
hypermarket, ironmonger, jeweller, laun-
shock n 1 blow, collision, concus- derette, minimarket, newsagent, off-
sion, impact, jolt, thud. 2 came as a licence, outfitter, pawnbroker, pharmacy,
shock, inf bombshell, surprise, inf post office, poulterer, stationer, super-
thunderbolt. 3 state of shock, dismay, market, tailor, take-away, tobacconist,
distress, fright, trauma, upset. • vb toyshop, video shop, vintner, watchmaker.
1 alarm, amaze, astonish, astound,
shopkeeper n dealer, merchant,
confound, daze, dismay, distress,
retailer, salesgirl, salesman, sales-
dumbfound, frighten, inf give some-
woman, stockist, storekeeper, sup-
one a turn, jar, jolt, numb, paralyse, plier, trader, tradesman.
petrify, rock, scare, shake, stagger,
startle, stun, stupefy, surprise, inf shopper n buyer, customer, patron,
throw, traumatize, unnerve. 2 Sadism shopping n 1 buying, inf spending-
shocks us. appal, disgust, horrify, spree. 2 goods, purchases.
nauseate, offend, outrage, repel,
shopping-centre n arcade, com-
revolt, scandalize, sicken.
plex, hypermarket, mall, precinct.
shoddy adj 1 cheap, flimsy, inf gim-
shore n bank, beach, coast, edge,
crack, inferior, jerry-built, mere-
foreshore, sands, seashore, seaside,
tricious, nasty, poor quality, inf
shingle, strand. • vb shore up > s u p -
rubbishy, second-rate, shabby, si
po r t .
tacky, inf tatty, tawdiy, inf trashy.
2 shoddy work, careless, messy, negli- short adj 1 diminutive, inf dumpy,
gent, slipshod, inf sloppy, slovenly, dwarfish, little, midget, fem petite,
untidy. Opp s u pe r io r . derog pint-sized, slight, small, squat,
shoe n plur footwear. □ boot, bootee,
inf stubby, inf stumpy, stunted, tiny,
inf wee, undergrown. 2 a short visit.
brogue, clog, espadrille, inf flip-flop,
brief, cursoiy, curtailed, ephemeral,
galosh, gum-boot, inflace-up, moccasin,
fleeting, momentary, passing, quick,
plimsoll, pump, sabot, sandal, inf slip-on,
short-lived, temporaiy, transient,
slipper, trainer, wader, Wellington.
transitory. 3 a short book, abbreviated,
shoemaker n bootmaker, cobbler, abridged, compact, concise, cut,
shoot n branch, bud, new growth, pocket, shortened, succinct. 4 in short
offshoot, sprout, sucker, twig. • vb supply, deficient, inadequate, insuffi-
1 shoot a gun. aim, discharge, fire. cient, lacking, limited, low, meagre,
2 shoot the enemy, aim at, bombard, scanty, scarce, sparse, wanting. 5 a
fire at, gun down, hit, hunt, kill, inf short manner, abrupt, bad-tempered,
let fly at, open fire on, inf pick off, blunt, brusque, cross, curt, gruff,
shortage 382

grumpy, impolite, irritable, laconic, show n 1 drama, performance, play,

sharp, snappy, taciturn, terse, testy, presentation, production. > e n t e r -
uncivil, unfriendly, unkind, unsym- t a in m e n t . 2 flower show, competition,
pathetic. Opp EXPANSIVE, LONG, PLENTI- demonstration, display, exhibition,
FUL, TALL. CUt Short > SHORTEN. inf expo, exposition, fair, presenta-
tion. 3 show of strength, appearance,
shortage n absence, dearth, defi-
demonstration, facade, illusion,
ciency, deficit, insufficiency, lack,
impression, pose, pretence, threat.
paucity, poverty, scarcity, shortfall,
4 just for show, affectation, exhibi-
want. Opp PLENTY. tionism, flamboyance, ostentation,
shortcoming n bad habit, defect, pretentiousness, showing off. • vb
deficiency, drawback, failing, failure, 1 bare, betray, demonstrate, display,
fault, flaw, foible, imperfection, lim- divulge, exhibit, expose, make pub-
itation, vice, weakness, weak point. lic, make visible, manifest, open up,
shorten vb abbreviate, abridge, com- present, produce, reveal, uncover.
2 Let your feelings show, appear, be
press, condense, curtail, cut, cut
down, cut short, diminish, dock, lop, seen, be visible, catch the eye, come
precis, prune, reduce, shrink, sum- out, emerge, make an appearance,
marize, take up (clothes), telescope, materialize, inf peep through, stand
trim, truncate. Opp l e n g t h e n . out, stick out. 3 show the way. con-
duct, direct, escort, guide, indicate,
shortly adv old use anon, before long, lead, point out, steer, usher. 4 show
by and by, directly, presently, soon. kindness, accord, bestow, confer,
short-sighted adj 1 myopic, near- grant, treat with. 5 This photo shows us
sighted. 2 unadventurous, unima- at work, depict, give a picture of, illus-
ginative, without vision. trate, picture, portray, represent,
symbolize. 6 Show me how. clarify,
short-tempered adj abrupt, describe, elucidate, explain, instruct,
acerbic, brusque, crabby, cross, make clear, teach, tell. 7 Tests show I
crusty, curt, gruff, irascible, irritable, was right, attest, bear out, confirm,
peevish, peremptoiy, shrewish, corroborate, demonstrate, evince,
snappy, testy, touchy, waspish. Opp exemplify, manifest, prove, substan-
GOOD-TEMPERED. tiate, verify, witness, show off >
shot n 1 ball, bullet, discharge, mis- BOAST, show up > ARRIVE, HUMILIATE.
sile, pellet, projectile, round, inf slug.
showdown n confrontation, crisis,
2 heard a shot, bang, blast, crack,
inf decider, decisive encounter, inf
explosion, report. 3 a first-class shot.
moment of truth.
marksman, markswoman, sharp-
shooter. 4 give it a shot, attempt, shower n 1 drizzle, sprinkling. >
chance, inf crack, effort, endeavour, r a in . 2 douche, shower-bath. • vb
inf go, hit, kick, inf stab, stroke, tiy. 1 deluge, drop, rain, spatter, splash,
5 photographic shot, angle, photo- spray, sprinkle. 2 shower with gifts.
graph, picture, scene, sequence, heap, inundate, load, overwhelm.
snap, snapshot.
show-off n inf big-head, boaster,
shout vb bawl, bellow, inf belt, call, braggart, conceited person, egotist,
cheer, clamour, ciy out, exclaim, exhibitionist, inf poser, poseur, inf
howl, rant, roar, scream, screech, showman, sw’aggerer.
shriek, talk loudly, vociferate,
whoop, yell, yelp, yowl. Opp w h is pe r . showy adj bright, conspicuous, elab-
orate, fancy, flamboyant, flashy,
shove vb inf barge, crowd, drive,
florid, fussy, garish, gaudy, lavish, inf
elbow, hustle, impel, jostle, nudge,
press, prod, push, shoulder, thrust. loud, lurid, ornate, ostentatious, inf
over the top, pretentious, striking,
shovel vb clear, dig, scoop, shift. trumpeiy, vulgar. Opp d is c r e e t .
 383 sickly
shred n atom, bit, fragment, grain, shuffle vb 1 confuse, disorganize,
hint, iota, jot, piece, scintilla, scrap, inteiinix, intersperse, jumble, mix,
sliver, snippet, speck, trace. • vb cut mix up, rearrange, reorganize. 2
to shreds, destroy, grate, rip up, shuffle along, drag your feet, scrape,
scrap, tear, shreds rags, ribbons, shamble, slide. > w a l k .
strips, tatters. shun vb avoid, disdain, eschew, flee,
shrewd adj acute, artful, astute, cal- inf give the cold shoulder to, keep
culating, inf canny, clever, crafty, clear of, rebuff, reject, shy away
cunning, discerning, discriminating, from, spurn, steer clear of, turn away
inf foxy, ingenious, intelligent, know- from. Opp SEEK.
ing, observant, perceptive, percipi- shut vb bolt, close, fasten, latch, lock,
ent, perspicacious, quick-witted, push to, replace, seal, secure, slam,
sage, sharp, sly, smart, wily, wise. shut in > c o n f in e , im pr is o n , shut off
Opp STUPID. > is o l a t e , shut out > e x c l u d e , shut
shriek vb cry, scream, screech, up > c o n f in e , im pr is o n , s il e n c e .
squawk, squeal. shutter n blind, louvre, screen.
shrill adj ear-splitting, high, high-
shy adj apprehensive, backward,
pitched, jarring, penetrating, pier- bashful, cautious, chaiy, coy, diffid-
cing, piping, screaming, screeching,
ent, hesitant, inhibited, introverted,
screechy, sharp, shrieking, strident, modest, inf mousy, nervous, re-
treble, whistling. Opp g e n t l e , served, reticent, retiring, self-con-
so n o r o u s.
scious, self-effacing, sheepish, timid,
shrine n altar, chapel, holy of holies, timorous, underconfident, wary,
holy place, place of worship, rel- withdrawn. Opp a s s e r t iv e , u n in h ib it e d .
iquary, sanctum, tomb. > c h u r c h . • vb > THROW.
shrink vb 1 become smaller, con- sibling n brother, sister, twin. > f a m -
tract, decrease, diminish, dwindle, il y .
lessen, make smaller, narrow, re-
sick adj 1 afflicted, ailing, bedridden,
duce, shorten. > s h r iv e l . Opp e x pa n d .
diseased, ill, indisposed, infirm,
2 shrink with fear, back off, cower,
inf laid up, inf poorly, inf queer,
cringe, flinch, hang back, quail, sickly, inf under the weather, un-
recoil, retire, shy away, wince, with-
healthy, unwell. > il l . 2 airsick, bi-
draw. Opp ADVANCE. lious, carsick, likely to vomit, naus-
shrivel vb become parched, become eated, nauseous, queasy, seasick,
wizened, curl, dehydrate, desiccate, squeamish. 3 sick of rudeness, annoyed
droop, diy out, diy up, pucker up, (by), bored (with), disgusted (by), dis-
wilt, wither, wrinkle. > s h r in k . tressed (by), inf fed up (with), glutted
shroud n blanket, cloak, cloud, (with), nauseated (by), sated (with),
cover, mantle, mask, pall, veil, wind- sickened (by), tired, troubled (by),
ing-sheet. • vb camouflage, cloak, upset (by), weaiy. 4 [inf] a sick joke.
conceal, cover, disguise, enshroud, > m o r b id , be sick > v o m it .
envelop, hide, mask, screen, swathe, sicken vb 1 inf catch a bug, fail, fall
veil, wrap up. ill, take sick, weaken. 2 appal, be
shrub n bush, tree. □ berberis, black- sickening to, disgust, make someone
thorn, broom, bryony, buckthorn, bud- sick, nauseate, offend, repel, revolt,
dleia, camellia, daphne, forsythia, gorse, inf turn someone off, inf turn some-
heather, hydrangea, japonica, jasmine, one’s stomach, sickening > r e pu l s -
lavender, lilac, myrtle, privet, rhododen- iv e.
dron, rosemary, rue, viburnum. sickly adj 1 ailing, anaemic, delicate,
shudder vb be horrified, convulse, drawn, feeble, frail, ill, pale, pallid,
jerk, quake, quiver, rattle, shake, inf peaky, unhealthy, wan, weak. >
shiver, squirm, tremble, vibrate. il l . Opp h e a l t h y . 2 sickly sentiment, cloy-
sickness 384

ing, maudlin, mawkish, inf mushy, omen, pointer, portent, presage,

nasty, nauseating, obnoxious, inf off- warning. > s ig n a l . 2 sign that someone
putting, syrupy, treacly, unpleasant. was here, clue, inf giveaway, indica-
Opp REFRESHING. tion, manifestation, marker, proof,
sickness n biliousness, nausea, reminder, spoor (of animal), sugges-
queasiness, vomiting. > il l n e s s . tion, symptom, token, trace, vestige.
3 put up a sign, advertisement, notice,
side n 1 sides of a cube, elevation, face, placard, poster, publicity, signboard.
facet, flank, surface. 2 side of the road. 4 identifying sign, badge, brand,
border, boundary, brim, brink, edge, cipher, device, emblem, flag, hiero-
fringe, limit, margin, perimeter, rim, glyph, ideogram, ideograph, insignia,
verge. 3 sides in a debate, angle, logo, mark, monogram, rebus, sym-
aspect, attitude, perspective, point bol, trademark. • vb 1 autograph,
of view, position, school of thought, countersign, endorse, inscribe, write.
slant, standpoint, view, viewpoint. 2 > s ig n a l , sign off > f in is h , sign on
4 sides in a quarrel, army, camp, fac-
> e n l is t , sign over > t r a n s f e r .
tion, interest, party, sect, team. • vb
side with ally with, favour, form an
signal n 1 communication, cue, ges-
alliance with, inf go along with, join ticulation, gesture, inf goahead, in-
up With, partner, prefer, support, dication, motion, sign, signal, inf
team up with. > h e l p. tip-off, token, warning. □ alarm-bell,
beacon, bell, burglar-alarm, buzzer, flag,
sidestep vb avoid, circumvent, flare, gong, green light, indicator, pass-
dodge, inf duck, evade, skirt round. word, red light, reveille, rocket, sema-
sidetrack vb deflect, distract, divert, phore signal, siren, smoke-signal, tocsin,
sideways adj 1 crabwise, indirect, old use trafficator, traffic-lights, warn-
lateral, oblique. 2 a sideways glance. ing-light, whistle, winker. 2 radio signal.
covert, sidelong, sly, inf sneaky, broadcast, emission, output, trans-
unobtrusive. mission, waves. • vb beckon, com-
municate, flag, gesticulate, give or
siege n blockade. • vb t> b e s ie g e .
send a signal, indicate, motion,
sieve n colander, riddle, screen, notify, sign, wave. > g e s t u r e .
strainer. • vb > s if t .
signature n autograph, endorse-
sift vb 1 filter, riddle, screen, sep- ment, mark, name.
arate, sieve, strain. 2 sift evidence. signet n seal, stamp.
analyse, examine, investigate, pick
out, review, scrutinize, select, sort significance n denotation, force,
out, weed out, winnow. idea, implication, import, import-
ance, message, point, purport, relev-
sigh n breath, exhalation, murmur,
ance, sense, signification, useful-
suspiration. > s o u n d . ness, value, weight. t> m e a n in g .
sight n 1 eyesight, seeing, vision, significant adj 1 eloquent, express-
visual perception. 2 within sight, field ive, indicative, informative, knowing,
of vision, gaze, range, view, visibility. meaningful, pregnant, revealing,
3 a brief sight of it. glimpse, look. 4 an
suggestive, symbolic, inf tell-tale.
impressive sight, display, exhibition, 2 significant event, big, consequential,
scene, show, show-piece, spectacle. considerable, historic, important,
• vb behold, descry, discern, distin- influential, memorable, newsworthy,
guish, espy, glimpse, make out, noteworthy, relevant, salient, ser-
notice, observe, perceive, recognize, ious, sizeable, valuable, vital, worth-
see, spot, catch sight of > s e e . while. Opp INSIGNIFICANT.
sightseer n globe-trotter, holiday- signify vb 1 announce, be a sign of,
maker, tourist, tripper, visitor. betoken, communicate, connote,
sign n 1 augury, forewarning, hint, convey, denote, express, foretell,
indication, indicator, intimation, impart, imply, indicate, intimate,
385
simulate
make known, reflect, reveal, signal, shallow, simple, simple-minded,
suggest, symbolize, tell, transmit. 2 It simplistic, inf soppy, stupid, thought-
doesn’t signify, be significant, count, less, unintelligent, unreasonable,
matter, merit consideration. unsound, unwise, wild, witless. Opp
signpost n finger-post, pointer, s e r io u s , w is e . 2 [in/| knocked silly. >
road-sign, sign. u n c o n s c io u s .
silence n 1 calm, calmness, hush, silt n alluvium, deposit, mud, ooze,
noiselessness, peace, quiet, quiet- sediment, slime, sludge.
ness, quietude, soundlessness, still- silvan adj arboreal, leafy, tree-
ness, tranquillity. Opp n o is e . 2 Her covered, wooded.
silence puzzled us. dumbness, mute-
ness, reticence, speechlessness, ta- similar adj akin, alike, analogous,
citurnity, uncommunicativeness. comparable, compatible, congruous,
• vb 1 gag, hush, keep quiet, make co-ordinating, corresponding, equal,
silent, muzzle, repress, shut up, equivalent, harmonious, homo-
suppress. 2 silence engine noise, damp, geneous, identical, indistinguish-
deaden, muffle, mute, quieten, able, like, matching, parallel, re-
smother, stifle. Silence! Be quiet! lated, resembling, the same, toning,
Be silent! inf Hold your tongue! twin, uniform, well-matched. Opp d if -
Hush! Keep quiet! inf Pipe down! f er en t .
Shut up! Stop talking! similarity n affinity, closeness, con-
silent adj 1 hushed, inaudible, gruity, correspondence, equivalence,
muffled, muted, noiseless, quiet, homogeneity, kinship, likeness,
soundless. 2 dumb, laconic, inf match, parallelism, relationship,
mum, reserved, reticent, speechless, resemblance, sameness, similitude,
taciturn, tight-lipped, tongue-tied, uniformity. Opp d if f e r e n c e .
uncommunicative, unforthcoming, simmer vb boil, bubble, cook, seethe,
voiceless. 3 silent listeners, attentive, stew.
rapt, restrained, still. 4 silent agree-
ment. implicit, implied, mute, tacit, simple adj 1 artless, basic, candid,
understood, unexpressed, unspoken, childlike, elementary, frank, funda-
unuttered. Opp e x pl ic it , n o is y , t a l k - mental, guileless, homely, honest,
a t iv e . be silent keep quiet, inf pipe
humble, ingenuous, innocent, lowly,
down, say nothing, inf shut up. modest, derog naive, natural, derog
silly, simple-minded, sincere, unaf-
silhouette n contour, form, outline, fected, unassuming, unpretentious,
profile, shadow, shape. unsophisticated. Opp s o ph is t ic a t e d .
silky adj delicate, fine, glossy, lus- 2 simple instructions, clear, compre-
trous, satiny, sleek, smooth, soft, vel- hensible, direct, easy, fool-proof,
vety. intelligible, lucid, straightforward,
silly adj 1 absurd, asinine, brainless, uncomplicated, understandable. Opp
childish, crazy, daft, inf dopey, inf c o mpl e x . 3 a simple dress, austere, clas-
dotty, fatuous, feather-brained, sical, plain, severe, stark, unadorned,
feeble-minded, flighty, old use fond, unembellished. Opp o r n a t e .
foolish, frivolous, grotesque, inf simplify vb clarify, explain, make
half-baked, hare-brained, idiotic, ill- simple, paraphrase, prune, inf put in
advised, illogical, immature, im- words of one syllable, streamline,
practical, imprudent, inadvisable, unravel, untangle. Opp c o mpl ic a t e .
inane, infantile, irrational, infjokey,
simplistic adj [always derog] facile,
laughable, light-hearted, ludicrous,
mad, meaningless, mindless, mis-
inadequate, naive, oversimple, over-
simplified, shallow, silly, superficial.
guided, naive, nonsensical, playful,
pointless, preposterous, ridiculous, simulate vb act, counterfeit, dis-
scatter-brained, inf scatty, senseless, simulate, enact, fake, feign, imitate,
simultaneous 386

inf mock up, play-act, pretend, repro- single adj 1 exclusive, individual, isol-
duce, sham. ated, lone, odd, one, only, personal,
separate, singular, sole, solitary,
simultaneous adj coinciding, con-
unique, unparalleled. 2 a single per-
current, contemporaneous, parallel,
son. celibate, inf free, unattached,
synchronized, synchronous.
unmarried. • vb single out > c h o o s e .
sin n blasphemy, corruption, deprav-
single-handed adj alone, indepen-
ity, desecration, deviliy, error, evil, dent, solitary, unaided, unassisted,
fault, guilt, immorality, impiety,
without help.
iniquity, irreverence, misdeed,
offence, peccadillo, profanation, sac- single-minded adj dedicated, deter-
rilege, sinfulness, transgression, old mined, devoted, dogged, derog fanat-
use trespass, ungodliness, unright- ical, derog obsessive, persevering,
eousness, vice, wickedness, wrong, resolute, steadfast, tireless, unswerv-
wrongdoing. • vb be guilty of sin, ing, unwavering.
blaspheme, do wrong, err, fall from singular adj 1 > s in g l e . 2 abnormal,
grace, go astray, lapse, misbehave, curious, different, distinct, eccentric,
offend, stray, transgress. exceptional, extraordinaiy, odd, out-
sincere adj candid, direct, earnest, standing, peculiar, rare, remarkable,
frank) genuine, guileless, heartfelt, strange, unusual. > d is t in c t iv e . Opp
honest, open, real, serious, simple, c o mmo n .
inf straight, straightforward, true, sinister adj 1 dark, disquieting, dis-
truthful, unaffected, unfeigned, turbing, evil, forbidding, foreboding,
upright, wholehearted. Opp in s in c e r e . frightening, gloomy, inauspicious,
sincerity n candour, directness, malevolent, malignant, menacing,
earnestness, frankness, genuineness, minatory, ominous, threatening,
honesty, honour, integrity, openness, upsetting. 2 sinister motives, bad, cor-
straightforwardness, trustworthi- mpt, criminal, dishonest, furtive,
ness, truthfulness, uprightness. illegal, nefarious, questionable, inf
shady, suspect, treacherous, un-
sinewy adj brawny, muscular, strap- worthy, villainous.
ping, tough, wiry. > s t r o n g .
sink n basin, stoup, washbowl. • vb
sinful adj bad, blasphemous, corrupt, 1 collapse, decline, descend, dimin-
damnable, depraved, erring, evil, ish, disappear, droop, drop, dwindle,
fallen, guilty, immoral, impious, ini- ebb, fade, fail, fall, go down, go
quitous, irreligious, irreverent, pro- lower, plunge, set (sun sets), slip
fane, sacrilegious, ungodly, unholy, down, subside, vanish, weaken. 2 be
unrighteous, vile, wicked, wrong, engulfed, be submerged, founder, go
wrongful. Opp r ig h t e o u s . down, go under. 3 sink a ship, scup-
sing vb carol, chant, chirp, chorus, per, scuttle. 4 sink a borehole, bore,
croon, descant, hum, intone, seren- dig, drill, excavate.
ade, trill, vocalize, warble, whistle, sinner n evil-doer, malefactor, mis-
yodel. creant, offender, reprobate, trans-
singe vb blacken, bum, char, scorch, gressor, wrongdoer.
sear. sip vb drink, lap, sample, taste.
singer n songster, vocalist. □ alto, bal- sit vb 1 be seated, perch, rest, seat
ladeer, baritone, bass, carol-singer, cas- (yourself), settle, squat, take a seat,
trate, plur choir, choirboy, choirgirl, inf take the weight off your feet. 2 sit
chorister, plur chorus, coloratura, con- for a portrait, pose. 3 sit an exam, be a
tralto, counter-tenor, crooner, It diva, folk candidate in, inf go in for, take, write.
singer, minstrel, opera singer, pop star, 4 Parliament sat for 12 hours, as-
precentor, It prima donna, soloist, semble, be in session, convene,
soprano, tenor, treble, troubadour. gather, get together, meet.
 387 sky
site n area, campus, ground, loca- talented, trained, versatile, versed,
tion, place, plot, position, setting, workmanlike. > c l e v e r . Opp u n s k il f u l .
situation, spot. • vb > s it u a t e .
skill n ability, accomplishment,
sitting-room n drawing-room, liv- adroitness, aptitude, art, artistry,
ing-room, lounge. capability, cleverness, competence,
situate vb build, establish, found, craft, cunning, deftness, dexterity,
install, locate, place, position, put, experience, expertise, facility, flair,
set up, site, station. gift, handicraft, ingenuity, knack,
mastery, professionalism, profi-
situation n 1 area, locale, locality,
ciency, prowess, shrewdness, talent,
location, place, position, setting, site,
technique, training, versatility, work-
spot. 2 an awkward situation, case, cir-
manship.
cumstances, condition, inf kettle of
fish, plight, position, predicament, skilled adj experienced, expert,
state of affairs. 3 situations vacant. qualified, trained, versed. > s k il f u l .
employment, job, place, position, skim vb 1 aquaplane, coast, fly, glide,
post. move lightly, plane, sail, skate, ski,
size n amount, area, bigness, skid, slide, slip. 2 skim a book, dip
breadth, bulk, capacity, depth, into, leaf through, look through,
dimensions, extent, gauge, height, read quickly, scan, skip, thumb
immensity, largeness, length, mag- through.
nitude, mass, measurement, propor- skin n casing, coat, coating, com-
tions, scale, scope, volume, weight, plexion, covering, epidermis, ex-
width. i> m e a s u r e . • vb size up i> terior, film, fur, hide, husk,
ASSESS. integument, membrane, outside,
sizeable adj considerable, decent, peel, pelt, rind, shell, surface. • vb
generous, largish, significant, worth- excoriate, flay, pare, peel, shell, strip,
while. > BIG. skin-deep adj insubstantial, shal-
skate vb glide, skim, slide. low, superficial, trivial, unimportant,
skeleton n bones, frame, frame- skinny adj bony, emaciated, gaunt,
work, structure. half-starved, lanky, scraggy, wasted.
sketch n 1 description, design, dia- > THIN.
gram, draft, drawing, outline, pic- skip vb 1 bound, caper, cavort, dance,
ture, plan, inf rough, skeleton, frisk, gambol, hop, jump, leap,
vignette. 2 comic sketch, performance, prance, romp, spring. 2 skip the boring
playlet, scene, skit, turn. • vb depict, bits, avoid, forget, ignore, leave out,
draw, indicate, outline, portray, rep- miss out, neglect, omit, overlook,
resent. sketch out t> o u t l in e . pass over, skim through. 3 skip
sketchy adj bitty, crude, cursory, lessons, be absent from, cut, miss,
hasty, hurried, imperfect, incom- play truant from.
plete, inexact, perfunctory, rough, skirmish n brush, fight, fray, scrim-
scrappy, undeveloped, unfinished, mage, inf set-to, tussle. • vb > f ig h t .
unpolished. Opp d e t a il e d , pe r f e c t .
skirt vb avoid, border, bypass, circle,
skid vb aquaplane, glide, go out of
encircle, go round, pass round, inf
control, slide, slip. steer clear of, surround.
skilful adj able, accomplished, adept,
skit n burlesque, parody, satire,
adroit, apt, artful, capable, compet-
sketch, spoof, inf take-off.
ent, consummate, crafty, cunning,
deft, dexterous, experienced, expert, sky n air, atmosphere, poet blue,
gifted, handy, ingenious, masterful, poet empyrean, poet firmament, poet
masterly, practised, professional, heavens, space, stratosphere, poet
proficient, qualified, shrewd, smart, welkin.
slab 388

slab n block, chunk, hunk, lump, news, bias, colour, distort, prejudice,
piece, slice, wedge, inf wodge. twist, weight, slanting > o b l iq u e .
slack adj 1 drooping, limp, loose, slap vb smack, spank. > h it .
sagging, soft. Opp t ig h t . 2 slack atti- slash vb gash, slit. > c u t .
tude. careless, dilatory, disorganized, slaughter n bloodshed, butchery,
easy-going, flaccid, idle, inattentive, Carnage, killing, massacre, murder.
indolent, lax, lazy, listless, neglectful, • vb annihilate, butcher, massacre,
negligent, permissive, relaxed, murder, slay. > k il l .
remiss, slothful, unbusinesslike,
slaughterhouse n abattoir,
uncaring, undisciplined. Opp r ig o r -
o u s . 3 slack trade, inactive, quiet, slow,
shambles.
slow-moving, sluggish. Opp b u s y . • vb slave n old use bondslave, drudge,
be lazy, idle, malinger, neglect your serf, thrall, vassal. > s e r v a n t . • vb
duty, shirk, inf skive. drudge, exert yourself, grind away,
labour, inf sweat, toil, inf work your
slacken vb 1 ease off, loosen, relax,
fingers to the bone. > w o r k .
release. 2 slacken speed, abate,
decrease, ease, lessen, lower, moder- slave-driver n despot, hard
ate, reduce, slow down. taskmaster, tyrant.
slaver vb dribble, drool, foam at the
slacker n inf good-for-nothing, idler,
lazy person, malingerer, si skiver, mouth, salivate, slobber, spit.
sluggard. slavery n bondage, captivity,
enslavement, serfdom, servitude,
slake vb allay, assuage, cool, ease,
subjugation, thraldom, vassalage.
quench, relieve, satisfy. Opp FREEDOM.
slam vb 1 bang, shut. 2 [mfl > c r it i - slavish adj 1 abject, cringing, fawn-
c iz e . ing, grovelling, humiliating, menial,
slander n backbiting, calumny, obsequious, servile, submissive.
defamation, denigration, insult, libel, 2 slavish imitation, close, flattering,
lie, misrepresentation, obloquy, scan- strict, sycophantic, unimaginative,
dal, slur, smear, vilification. • vb unoriginal. Opp in d e pe n d e n t .
blacken the name of, calumniate, slay vb assassinate, bump off,
defame, denigrate, disparage, libel, butcher, destroy, dispatch, execute,
malign, misrepresent, slur, smear, exterminate, inf finish off, martyr,
spread tales about, tell lies about, massacre, murder, put down, put to
traduce, vilify. death, slaughter. > k il l .
slanderous adj abusive, calum- sleazy adj cheap, contemptible,
nious, cruel, damaging, defamatory, dirty, disreputable, low-class, mean,
disparaging, false, hurtful, insulting, mucky, ron-down, seedy, slovenly,
libellous, lying, malicious, men- sordid, squalid, unprepossessing.
dacious, scurrilous, untrue, vicious. sledge n bob-sleigh, sled, sleigh,
slang n argot, cant, jargon. • vb > toboggan.
in s u l t , slanging match > q u a r r e l . sleek adj 1 brushed, glossy, graceful,
slant n 1 angle, bevel, camber, cant, lustrous, shining, shiny, silken, silky,
diagonal, gradient, incline, list, pitch, smooth, soft, trim, velvety, well-
rake, ramp, slope, tilt. 2 slant on a groomed. Opp u n t id y . 2 a sleek look.
problem, approach, attitude, per- complacent, contented, fawning,
spective, point of view, standpoint, self-satisfied, inf slimy, inf smarmy,
view, viewpoint. 3 slant to the news. smug, suave, thriving, unctuous,
bias, distortion, emphasis, imbal- well-fed.
ance, one-sidedness, prejudice. • vb sleep n inf beauty sleep, catnap,
1 be at an angle, be skewed, incline, coma, dormancy, doze, inf forty
lean, shelve, slope, tilt. 2 slant the winks, hibernation, si kip, inf nap,
 389 slipshod
repose, rest, inf shut-eye, siesta, delicate, diminutive, flimsy, fragile,
slumber, snooze, torpor, uncon- frail, petite, sickly, slender, slim,
sciousness. • vb aestivate, be sleep- svelte, sylphlike, thin, tiny, weak. Opp
ing, be unconscious, catnap, inf doss BIG. • n, vbt> INSULT.
down, doze, inf drop off, drowse, fall slightly adv hardly, moderately, only
asleep, go to bed, inf have forty just, scarcely. Opp v e r y .
winks, hibernate, si kip, inf nod off,
rest, slumber, snooze, inf take a nap. slim adj 1 fine, graceful, lean, nar-
sleeping > a s l e e p . row, slender, svelte, sylphlike, trim.
t> t h in . 2 a slim chance, little, neg-
sleepiness n drowsiness, lassitude,
ligible, remote, slight, unlikely.
lethargy, somnolence, tiredness, tor-
• vb become slimmer, diet, lose
por.
weight, reduce.
sleepless adj awake, conscious, dis-
slime n muck, mucus, mud, ooze,
turbed, insomniac, restless, inf toss-
sludge.
ing and turning, wakeful, watchful,
wide awake. Opp a s l e e p . slimy adj clammy, greasy, mucous,
sleepwalker n noctambulist, muddy, oily, oozy, slippery, inf slippy,
somnambulist. slithery, inf squidgy, inf squishy, wet.
sleepy adj 1 comatose, inf dopey, sling vb cast, inf chuck, fling, heave,
drowsy, heavy, lethargic, ready to hurl, launch, inf let fly, lob, pelt,
sleep, sluggish, somnolent, soporific, pitch, propel, shoot, shy, throw, toss.
tired, torpid, weaiy. 2 a sleepy village. slink vb creep, edge, move guiltily,
boring, dull, inactive, quiet, restful, prowl, skulk, slither, sneak, steal.
slowmoving, unexciting. Opp l iv e l y . slinky adj [infla slinky dress, clinging,
slender adj 1 fine, graceful, lean, close-fitting, graceful, inf sexy, sinu-
narrow, slight, svelte, sylphlike, trim. ous, sleek.
t> t h in . 2 slender thread, feeble, fragile, slip n 1 accident, inf bloomer, blun-
tenuous. 3 slender means, inadequate, der, error, fault, Fr faux pas, impro-
meagre, scanty, small. Opp f a t , l a r g e . priety, inaccuracy, indiscretion,
slice n carving, layer, piece, rasher, lapse, miscalculation, mistake, over-
shaving, sliver, wedge. • vb carve, sight, inf slip of the pen, slip of the
shave off. > c u t . tongue, inf slip-up. 2 slip of paper.
slick adj 1 adroit, artful, clever, cun- note, piece, sheet, strip. • vb 1 aqua-
ning, deft, dextrous, efficient, quick, plane, coast, glide, glissade, move
skilful, smart. 2 a slick talker, glib, out of control, skate, ski, skid, skim,
meretricious, plausible, inf smarmy, slide, slither, stumble, trip. 2 slipped
smooth, smug, specious, suave, into the room, creep, edge, move qui-
superficial, inf tricky, unctuous, etly, slink, sneak, steal, give some-
untrustworthy, urbane, wily. 3 slick one the slip > ESCAPE, let slip
hair, glossy, oiled, plastered down, r e v e a l , slip away, slip the net
shiny, sleek, smooth. t> ESCAPE. Slip up > BLUNDER.
slide n 1 avalanche, landslide, land- slippery adj 1 glassy, greasy, icy,
slip. 2 photographic slide, trans- lubricated, oily, slimy, inf slippy,
parency. • vb aquaplane, coast, glide, slithery, smooth, wet. 2 a slippery cus-
glissade, plane, skate, ski, skid, skim, tomer. crafty, cunning, devious,
slip, slither, toboggan. evasive, inf hard to pin down, shifty,
sly, inf smarmy, smooth, sneaky,
slight adj 1 imperceptible, inad-
equate, inconsequential, inconsid- specious, inf tricky, unreliable, un-
erable, insignificant, insufficient, trustworthy, wily.
little, minor, negligible, scanty, slim slipshod adj careless, disorganized,
(chance), small, superficial, trifling, lax, messy, slapdash, inf sloppy,
trivial, unimportant. 2 slight build. slovenly, untidy.
slit 390

slit n aperture, breach, break, chink, plodding, protracted, slow-moving,

cleft, crack, cut, fissure, gap, gash, sluggardly, sluggish, steady, tardy,
hole, incision, opening, rift, slot, torpid, unhurried, unpunctual. 2 slow
split, tear, vent. • vb cut, gash, slice, learner, backward, dense, dim, dull,
split, tear. obtuse, inf thick. > s t u pid . 3 slow
slither vb creep, glide, inf skitter,
worker, phlegmatic, reluctant, unen-
slide, slink, slip, snake, worm. ’thusiastic, unwilling. > s l u g g is h . Opp
f a s t . • vb slow down brake, deceler-
sliver n chip, flake, shard, shaving, ate, inf ease up, go slower, hold back,
snippet, splinter, strip. > pie c e . reduce speed, be slow > d a w d l e ,
slobber vb dribble, drool, salivate, DELAY.
slaver. sludge n mire, muck, mud, ooze,
slogan n battle-cry, catch-phrase, precipitate, sediment, silt, slime,
catchword, jingle, motto, war-cry, slurry, slush.
watchword. > s a y in g . sluggish adj apathetic, dull, idle,
slope n angle, bank, bevel, camber, inactive, indolent, inert, lazy, leth-
cant, gradient, hill, incline, pitch, argic, lifeless, listless, phlegmatic,
rake, ramp, scarp, slant, tilt. slothful, torpid, unresponsive. >
□ [upwards] acclivity, ascent, rise. SLOW. Opp LIVELY.
□ [downwards] decline, declivity, des- sluice vb flush, rinse, swill, wash,
cent, dip, drop, fall. • vb ascend, bank, slumber n, vb > s l e e p.
decline, descend, dip, fall, incline,
lean, pitch, rise, shelve, slant, tilt, slump n collapse, crash, decline,
tip. sloping > o b l iq u e . depression, dip, downturn, drop, fall,
falling-off, plunge, recession, trough.
sloppy adj 1 liquid, messy, runny, Opp b o o m . • vb 1 collapse, crash,
inf sloshy, slushy, inf splashing about, decline, dive, drop, fall off, plummet,
squelchy, watery, wet. 2 sloppy work. plunge, recede, sink, slip, inf take a
careless, dirty, disorganized, lax, nosedive, worsen. Opp pr o s pe r .
messy, slapdash, slipshod, slovenly, 2 slump in a chair, be limp, collapse,
unsystematic, untidy. 3 > s e n t i - droop, flop, hunch, loll, lounge, sag,
me n t a l . slouch, subside.
slot n 1 aperture, breach, break, slur n affront, aspersion, calumny,
channel, chink, cleft, crack, cut, fis- imputation, innuendo, insinuation,
sure, gap, gash, groove, hole, in- insult, libel, slander, smear, stigma.
cision, opening, rift, slit, split, vent. • vb garble, lisp, mumble.
2 slot on a schedule, place, position,
slurry n mud, ooze, slime.
space, spot, time.
sly adj artful, inf canny, inf catty, con-
sloth n apathy, idleness, indolence,
niving, crafty, cunning, deceitful,
inertia, laziness, lethargy, sluggish-
designing, devious, disingenuous, inf
ness, torpor.
foxy, furtive, guileful, insidious,
slouch vb droop, hunch, loaf, loll, knowing, scheming, secretive, inf
lounge, sag, shamble, slump, stoop. shifty, shrewd, inf sneaky, inf snide,
slovenly adj careless, inf couldn’t- stealthy, surreptitious, treacherous,
care-less, disorganized, lax, messy, tricky, underhand, wily. Opp c a n d id ,
shoddy, slapdash, slatternly, inf o pe n .
sloppy, thoughtless, unmethodical, smack vb pat, slap, spank. > h it .
untidy. Opp c a r e f u l . small adj 1 inf baby, bantam, com-
slow adj 1 careful, cautious, crawl- pact, concise, cramped, diminutive,
ing, dawdling, delayed, deliberate, inf dinky, dwarf, exiguous, fine, frac-
dilatory, gradual, lagging, late, tional, infinitesimal, lean, lilliputian,
lazy, leisurely, lingering, loitering, little, microscopic, midget, inf mini,
measured, moderate, painstaking, miniature, minuscule, minute, nar-
391 smooth
row, petite, inf pint-sized, in/pocket- malign, slander, stigmatize, tarnish,
sized, inf poky, portable, pygmy, vilify.
short, slender, slight, inf teeny, thin,
smell n odour, redolence. □ [pleas-
tiny, toy, undergrown, undersized,
ant] aroma, bouquet, fragrance, incense,
inf wee, inf weeny. 2 small helpings. nose, perfume, scent. □ [unpleasant]
inadequate, insufficient, meagre, fetor, mephitis, miasma, inf pong, pun-
mean, inf measly, miserly, modest, gency, reek, stench, stink, whiff. »vb1 inf
niggardly, parsimonious, inf pid- get a whiff of, scent, sniff. 2 onions
dling, scanty, skimpy, stingy, un- smell, inf hum, inf pong, reek, stink,
generous, unsatisfactoiy. 3 a small whiff.
problem, inconsequential, insigni-
ficant, minor, negligible, nugatory, smelling adj [Smelling is usually used
slim (chance), slight, trifling, trivial, in combination: sweet-smelling, etc.]
unimportant. Opp b ig . small arms 1 pleasant-smelling, aromatic, fra-
> WEAPON. grant, musky, odoriferous, odorous,
perfumed, redolent, scented, spicy.
small-minded adj bigoted, grudg- 2 unpleasantsmelling, fetid, foul, gamy,
ing, hidebound, illiberal, intolerant, in/high, malodorous, mephitic, mias-
narrow, narrowminded, old-fash- mic, musty, noisome, inf off, si
ioned, parochial, petty, prejudiced, pongy, pungent, putrid, rank, reek-
rigid, selfish, trivial, unimaginative. ing, rotten, smelly, stinking, inf
> MEAN. Opp BROAD-MINDED. whiffy. Opp o d o u r l e s s .
smart adj 1 acute, adept, artful, smelly adj t> s me l l in g .
astute, bright, clever, crafty, inf cute,
discerning, ingenious, intelligent, smile n, vb beam, grin, leer, simper,
perceptive, perspicacious, quick, smirk, sneer.
quickwitted, shrewd, si streetwise. smoke n 1 air pollution, exhaust,
Opp d u l l . 2 smart appearance, bright, fog, fumes, gas, smog, steam, vapour.
chic, clean, dapper, inf dashing, el- 2 cigar, cigarette, cheroot, inf fag,
egant, fashionable, fresh, modish, inf pipe, tobacco. • vb 1 emit smoke,
natty, neat, inf posh, inf snazzy, Fr fume, reek, smoulder. 2 smoke cigars,
soigne, spruce, stylish, tidy, trim, inhale, puff at.
well-dressed, well-groomed, well- smoky adj clouded, dirty, foggy,
looked-after. Opp s c r u f f y . 3 a smart grimy, hazy, sooty. Opp c l e a r .
pace, brisk, inf cracking, fast, forceful,
quick, rapid, inf rattling, speedy, smooth adj 1 even, flat, horizontal,
swift. 4 a smart blow, painful, sharp, level, plane, regular, unbroken,
stinging, vigorous. • vb > h u r t . unruffled. 2 smooth sea. calm, peace-
ful, placid, quiet, restful. 3 a smooth
smash vb 1 smash to pieces, crumple, finish, burnished, glassy, glossy, pol-
crush, demolish, destroy, shatter, ished, satiny, shiny, silken, silky,
squash, wreck. > b r e a k . 2 smash into sleek, soft, velvety. 4 smooth progress.
a wall, bang, bash, batter, bump, col- comfortable, easy, effortless, fluent,
lide, crash, hammer, knock, pound, steady, uncluttered, uneventful,
ram, slam, strike, thump, wallop. uninterrupted, unobstructed. 5 a
> HIT. smooth taste, agreeable, bland, mel-
smear n 1 blot, daub, mark, smudge, low, mild, pleasant, soft, soothing.
stain, streak. 2 a smear on your name. 6 a smooth mixture, creamy, flowing,
aspersion, calumny, defamation, runny. 7 a smooth talker, convincing,
imputation, innuendo, insinuation, facile, glib, insincere, plausible,
libel, slander, slur, stigma, vilifica* polite, self-assured, self-satisfied,
tion. • vb 1 dab, daub, plaster, rub, slick, smug, sophisticated, suave,
smudge, spread, wipe. 2 smear a rep- untrustworthy, urbane. Opp r o u g h .
utation. attack, besmirch, blacken, • vb buff up, burnish, even out, file,
calumniate, defame, discredit, libel, flatten, iron, level, level off, plane,
smother 392

polish, press, roll out, sand down, (against), report, si snitch, inf tell
sandpaper. tales (about).
smother vb 1 asphyxiate, choke, sneaking adj furtive, half-formed,
cover, kill, snuff out, stifle, strangle, intuitive, lurking, nagging, inf nig-
suffocate, throttle. 2 > s u ppr e s s . gling, persistent, private, secret,
smoulder vb burn, smoke, smoul- uncomfortable, unconfessed, undis-
dering t> ANGRY. closed, unproved, worrying.
smudge vb blot, blur, dirty, mark, sneaky adj cheating, contemptible,
smear, stain, streak. crafty, deceitful, despicable, devious,
dishonest, furtive, inf low-down,
smug adj complacent, conceited, inf mean, nasty, shady, inf shifty, sly,
holier-than-thou, pleased, priggish, treacherous, underhand, unortho-
self-important, selfrighteous, self-sat- dox, unscrupulous, untrustworthy.
isfied, sleek, superior. Opp h u mb l e . Opp STRAIGHTFORWARD.
snack n bite, inf elevenses, inf nibble, sneer vb be contemptuous, be scorn-
refreshments. t> me a l . ful, boo, curl your Up, hiss, hoot, jeer,
snack-bar n buffet, cafe, cafeteria, laugh, mock, scoff, sniff, sneer at
fast-food restaurant, transport cafe. t> DENIGRATE, r id ic u l e .
snag' n catch, complication, diffi- sniff vb 1 inf get a whiff of, scent,
culty, drawback, hindrance, hitch, smell. 2 t> s n iv e l . 3 t> s n e e r .
impediment, obstacle, obstruction, snigger vb chuckle, giggle, laugh,
problem, set-back, inf stumbling- snicker, titter.
block. • vb catch, jag, rip, tear.
snip vb clip, dock, nick, nip. t> c u t .
snake n ophidian, serpent. □ adder,
anaconda, boa constrictor, cobra, cop- snipe vb fire, shoot, inf take pot-
perhead, flying-snake, grass snake, shots. snipe at t> c r it ic iz e .
mamba, python, rattlesnake, sand snake, snippet n fragment, morsel, par-
sea snake, sidewinder, tree snake, viper. ticle, scrap, shred, snatch. t> pie c e .
• vb crawl, creep, meander, twist snivel vb blubber, cry, grizzle, mewl,
and turn, wander, worm, zigzag, sob, sniff, sniffle, snuffle, whimper,
snaking t> t w is t y . whine, inf whinge. t> w e e p .
snap adj > s u d d e n . • vb 1 break, snobbish adj affected, condescend-
crack, fracture, give way, part, split. ing, disdainful, elitist, haughty, high-
2 snap your fingers, click, crack, pop. falutin, inf hoitytoity, lofty, lordly,
3 dog snapped at me. bite, gnash, nip, patronizing, pompous, inf posh, pre-
snatch. 4 snap orders, bark, growl, inf sumptuous, pretentious, inf putting
jump down someone’s throat, snarl, on airs, self-important, smug, inf
speak angrily. snooty, inf stuck-up, supercilious,
snare n ambush, booby-trap, old use superior, inf toffee-nosed. t> c o n -
gin, noose, springe, trap. • vb cap- c e it e d . Opp u n pr e t e n t io u s .
ture, catch, decoy, ensnare, entrap, snoop vb be inquisitive, butt in, do
net, trap. detective work, interfere, intrude,
snarl vb 1 bare the teeth, growl. investigate, meddle, inf nose about,
2 snarl up rope, confuse, entangle, pry, sneak, spy, in/stick your nose in.
jam, knot, tangle, twist. snooper n busybody, detective,
snatch vb 1 catch, clutch, grab, investigator, meddler, sneak, spy.
grasp, lay hold of, pluck, seize, take, snout n face, muzzle, nose, nozzle,
wrench away, wrest away. 2 abduct, proboscis, trunk.
kidnap, remove, steal. snub vb be rude to, brush off, cold-
sneak vb 1 creep, move stealthily, shoulder, disdain, humiliate, insult,
prowl, skulk, slink, stalk, steal. 2 [in/] offend, inf put someone down,
sneak on someone, si grass, inform rebuff, reject, scorn, inf squash.
 393 soil
snuff vb extinguish, put out. snuff it raderie, companionship, company,
> DIE. snuff out > Kin.. fellowship, friendship, togetherness.
snug adj 1 comfortable, inf comfy, 3 a secret society, etc. academy,
cosy, enclosed, friendly, intimate, alliance, association, brotherhood,
protected, reassuring, relaxed, relax- circle, club, confraternity, fraternity,
ing, restful, safe, secure, sheltered, group, guild, league, organization,
soft, warm. 2 a snug fit. close-fitting, sisterhood, sodality, sorority, union,
exact, well-tailored. sofa n chaise longue, couch, settee,
soak vb bathe, drench, inf dunk, sofa bed. > s e a t .
immerse, marinate, penetrate, per- soft adj 1 compressible, crumbly,
meate, pickle, saturate, souse, steep, cushiony, elastic, flabby, flexible,
submerge, wet thoroughly, soaked, floppy, limp, malleable, mushy, plas-
soaking > w e t . soak up > a b s o r b . tic, pliable, pliant, pulpy, spongy,
soar vb 1 ascend, climb, float, fly, springy, squashable, squashy,
glide, hang, hover, rise, tower. squeezable, supple, tender, yielding.
2 prices soared, escalate, increase, rise, 2 soft ground, boggy, marshy, muddy,
rocket, shoot up, spiral. sodden, waterlogged. 3 a soft bed.
comfortable, cosy. 4 soft texture.
sob vb blubber, cry, gasp, snivel, inf
downy, feathery, fleecy, fluffy, furry,
sob your heart out, whimper. > w e e p . satiny, silky, sleek, smooth, velvety.
sober adj 1 calm, clear-headed, com- 5 soft music, dim, faint, low, melliflu-
posed, dignified, grave, in control, ous, muted, peaceful, quiet, relax-
level-headed, lucid, peaceful, quiet, ing, restful, soothing, subdued. 6 soft
rational, sedate, sensible, serene, breeze, balmy, delicate, gentle, light,
serious, solemn, steady, subdued, mild, pleasant, warm. 7 [inj] a soft
tranquil, unexciting. Opp s il l y . 2 sober option, easy, undemanding. 8 soft feel-
habits, abstemious, moderate, inf on ings. > SOFT-HEARTED. Opp HARD, HARSH,
the wagon, restrained, self-con- VIOLENT.
trolled, staid, teetotal, temperate. soften vb 1 abate, alleviate, buffer,
Opp d r u n k . 3 sober dress, colourless, cushion, deaden, decrease, deflect,
drab, dull, plain, sombre. diminish, lower, make softer, mel-
sociable adj affable, approachable, low, mitigate, moderate, muffle,
old use clubbable, companionable, pacify, palliate, quell, quieten, reduce
convivial, extroverted, friendly, the impact of, subdue, temper, tone
gregarious, hospitable, neighbourly, down, turn down. 2 dissolve, fluff
outgoing, warm, welcoming. > up, lighten, liquefy, make softer,
SOCIAL. Opp UNFRIENDLY, WITHDRAWN. melt. 3 soften in attitude, become
social adj 1 civilized, collaborative, softer, concur, ease up, give in, give
gregarious, organized. 2 social events. way, inf let up, relax, succumb,
collective, communal, community, weaken, yield. Opp h a r d e n , in t e n s if y .
general, group, popular, public. > soft-hearted adj benign, compas-
s o c ia b l e . Opp s o l it a r y . • n dance, disco, sionate, conciliatory, easygoing, gen-
inf do, gathering, inf get-together, erous, indulgent, kind-hearted, derog
party, reception, reunion, soiree. > lax, lenient, merciful, permissive,
PARTY. sentimental, inf soft, sympathetic,
socialize vb associate, be sociable, tender, tender-hearted, tolerant,
entertain, fraternize, get together, understanding. > k in d . Opp c r u e l .
inf go out together, join in, keep com- soggy adj drenched, dripping, heavy
pany, mix, relate. (soil), saturated, soaked, sodden, inf
society n 1 civilization, the com- sopping, wet through. > w e t . Opp d r y .
munity, culture, the human family, soil n clay, dirt, earth, ground,
mankind, nation, people, the public. humus, land, loam, marl, topsoil.
2 the society of our friends, cama- • vb befoul, besmirch, blacken, con-
solace 394

taminate, defile, dirty, make dirty, controvertible, indisputable, irre-

muddy, pollute, smear, stain, sully, futable, provable, proven, real,
tarnish. sound, tangible, weighty. 8 solid sup-
solace n comfort, consolation, reas-
port. complete, dependable, effective,
surance, relief. • vb > c o n s o l e . like-minded, reliable, stalwart,
strong, trustworthy, unanimous,
soldier n fighter, fighting man, fight- undivided, united, unwavering, vig-
ing woman, old use man at arms, ser- orous. Opp f l u id , f r a g me n t a r y , w e a k .
viceman, servicewoman, warrior.
solidarity n accord, agreement,
a cadet, cavalryman, centurion, com-
coherence, cohesion, concord, har-
mando, conscript, guardsman, gunner,
mony, like-mindedness, unanimity,
infantryman, lancer, marine, mercenary,
unity. Opp d is u n it y .
NCO, officer, paratrooper, private, recruit,
regular, rifleman, sapper, sentry, trooper, solidify vb cake, clot, coagulate, con-
plur troops, warrior. > f ig h t e r , r a n k . geal, crystallize, freeze, harden, jell,
• vb soldier on > pe r s is t . set, thicken. Opp l iq u e f y .
sole adj exclusive, individual, lone, soliloquy n monologue, speech,
one, only, single, singular, solitaiy, solitary adj 1 alone, antisocial, clois-
unique. tered, companionless, friendless,
solenin adj 1 earnest, gloomy, glum,
isolated, lonely, lonesome, reclus-
grave, grim, long-faced, reserved, ive, unsociable, withdrawn. 2 a sol-
sedate, serious, sober, sombre, staid, itary survivor, individual, one, only,
straight-faced, thoughtful, unsmil- single, sole. 3 a solitary place, desol-
ing. Opp c h e e r f u l . 2 a solemn occasion. ate, distant, hidden, inaccessible,
august, awe-inspiring, awesome, isolated, out-of-the-way, private,
ceremonial, ceremonious, digni- remote, secluded, sequestered, unfre-
fied, ecclesiastical, formal, grand, quented, unknown. Opp n u m e r o u s ,
pu b l ic , s o c ia l . • n anchorite, hermit,
holy, important, imposing, impress-
ive, liturgical, momentous, pom- inf loner, recluse.
pous, religious, ritualistic, stately. solitude n aloneness, friendlessness,
Opp f r iv o l o u s . isolation, loneliness, privacy, remote-
ness, retirement, seclusion.
solicit vb appeal for, ask for, beg,
entreat, importune, petition, seek. solo adv alone, individually, on your
own, unaccompanied.
solicitous adj 1 attentive, caring,
concerned, considerate, sympathetic. soloist n performer, player, singer. >
2 > ANXIOUS. mu s ic ia n .
soluble adj 1 explicable, manage-
solid adj 1 concrete, hard, impen-
etrable, impermeable, rigid, unmov- able, solvable, tractable, under-
ing. 2 a solid crowd, compact, standable.' 2 soluble in water.
crowded, dense, jammed, packed. dispersing, dissolving, melting. Opp
in s o l u b l e .
3 solid gold, authentic, genuine, pure,
real, unadulterated, unalloyed, un- solution n 1 answer, clarification,
mixed. 4 a solid hour, continual, con- conclusion, denouement, elucida-
tinuous, entire, unbroken, unin- tion, explanation, explication, key,
terrupted, unrelieved, whole. 5 solid outcome, resolution, solving, unrav-
foundations, firm, fixed, immovable, elling, working out. 2 a chemical solu-
robust, sound, stable, steady, stout, tion. blend, compound, emulsion,
strong, sturdy, substantial, unbend- infusion, mixture, suspension.
ing, unyielding, well-made. 6 a solid solve vb answer, clear up, inf crack,
shape, cubic, rounded, spherical, decipher, elucidate, explain, ex-
thick, three-dimensional. 7 solid plicate, figure out, find the solution
evidence, authoritative, cogent, co- to, interpret, puzzle out, resolve,
herent, convincing, genuine, in- unravel, work out.
395 sorrow
solvent adj creditworthy, in credit, soporific adj boring, deadening,
profitable, reliable, self-supporting, hypnotic, sedative, sleep-inducing,
solid, sound, viable. Opp b a n k r u pt . sleepy, somnolent. Opp l iv e l y .
sombre adj black, bleak, cheerless, sorcerer n conjuror, enchanter,
dark, dim, dismal, doleful, drab, enchantress, magician, magus, medi-
dreaiy, dull, funereal, gloomy, grave, cine man, necromancer, sorceress,
grey, joyless, lowering, lugubrious, old use warlock, witch, witch-doctor,
melancholy, morose, mournful, seri- wizard.
ous, sober. > s a d . Opp c h e e r f u l . sorcery n black magic, charms, con-
somewhat adv fairly, moderately,
juring, diabolism, incantations,
inf pretty, quite, rather, inf sort of. magic, inf mumbo jumbo, necro-
mancy, the occult, spells, voodoo,
song n air, inf ditty, inf hit, lyric, witchcraft, wizardry.
number, tune. □ anthem, aria, ballad, sordid adj 1 dingy, dirty, disrep-
blues, calypso, cantata, canticle, carol, utable, filthy, foul, miserable, inf
chant, chorus, descant, folk-song, hymn, mucky, nasty, offensive, polluted,
jingle, Ger lied [plur Heder], lullaby, putrid, ramshackle, seamy, seedy, inf
madrigal, nursery rhyme, plainsong, pop sleazy, inf slummy, squalid, ugly,
song, psalm, reggae, rock, serenade, unclean, undignified, unpleasant,
shanty, soul, spiritual, wassail. unsanitary, wretched. Opp c l e a n .
sonorous adj deep, full, loud, 2 sordid dealings, avaricious, base,
powerful, resonant, resounding, corrupt, covetous, degenerate, de-
reverberant, rich, ringing. Opp s h r il l . spicable, dishonourable, ignoble,
ignominious, immoral, mean, mer-
soon adv old use anon, inf any minute cenary, rapacious, selfish, inf shabby,
now, before long, inf in a minute, shameful, unethical, unscrupulous.
presently, quickly, shortly, straight Opp h o n o u r a b l e .
away. sore adj 1 aching, burning, chafing,
sooner adv 1 before, earlier. 2 sooner delicate, hurting, inflamed, painful,
have tea than coffee, preferably, rather. raw, red, sensitive, smarting, sting-
ing, tender. 2 aggrieved, hurt, irked,
soot n dirt, grime. inf peeved, inf put out, resentful,
soothe vb allay, appease, assuage, upset, vexed. > a n n o y e d . • n abra-
calm, comfort, compose, ease, mol- sion, abscess, boil, bruise, burn,
lify, pacify, quiet, relieve, salve, carbuncle, gall, gathering, graze,
settle, still, tranquillize. infection, inflammation, injury, la-
ceration, pimple, rawness, redness,
soothing adj 1 balmy, balsamic, scrape, spot, swelling, ulcer. >
comforting, demulcent, emollient, w o u n d , make sore abrade, bruise,
healing, lenitive, mild, palliative. burn, chafe, chap, gall, graze, hurt,
2 soothing music, calming, gentle, inflame, lacerate, redden, rub.
peaceful, pleasant, reassuring, relax-
sorrow n 1 affliction, anguish, dejec-
ing, restful, serene.
tion, depression, desolation, despair,
sophisticated adj 1 adult, si cool, desperation, despondency, disap-
cosmopolitan, cultivated, cultured, pointment, discontent, disgruntle-
elegant, fashionable, inf grown-up, ment, dissatisfaction, distress,
mature, polished, inf posh, derog pre- dolour, gloom, glumness, grief,
tentious, refined, stylish, urbane, heartache, heartbreak, heaviness,
worldly. Opp u n s o ph is t ic a t e d . 2 soph- homesickness, hopelessness, loneli-
isticated ideas, advanced, clever, com- ness, melancholy, misery, misfor-
plex, complicated, elaborate, hard to tune, mourning, sad feelings,
understand, ingenious, intricate, sadness, suffering, tearfulness, tribu-
involved, subtle. Opp pr imit iv e , s impl e . lation, trouble, unhappiness, wist-
sorrowful 396

fulness, woe, wretchedness. Opp h a p - sound adj 1 durable, fit, healthy,

pin e s s . 2 sorrow for wrongdoing. apolo- hearty, inf in good shape, robust,
gies, guilt, penitence, regret, secure, solid, strong, sturdy, tough,
remorse, repentance. • vb agonize, undamaged, uninjured, unscathed,
be sorrowful, be sympathetic, bewail, vigorous, well, whole. 2 sound food.
grieve, lament, mourn, weep. Opp eatable, edible, fit for human con-
REJOICE. sumption, good, wholesome. 3 sound
ideas, balanced, coherent, common-
sorrowful adj broken-hearted, sense, convincing, correct, judicious,
dejected, disconsolate, distressed, logical, orthodox, prudent, rational,
doleful, grief stricken, heartbroken, reasonable, reasoned, sane, sensible,
long faced, lugubrious, melancholy, well-founded, wise. 4 a sound business.
miserable, mournful, regretful, rue- dependable, established, profitable,
ful, saddened, sombre, tearful, un- recognized, reliable, reputable, safe,
happy, upset, woebegone, woeful, secure, trustworthy, viable. Opp b a d ,
wretched. r> s a d , s o r r y . Opp h a ppy . w e a k . • n din, noise, resonance,
sorry adj 1 apologetic, ashamed, con- timbre, tone. □ [Most of these words
science-stricken, contrite, guilt-rid- can be used as either nouns or verbs.]
den, penitent, regretful, remorseful, bang, bark, bawl, bay, bellow, blare,
repentant, shamefaced. 2 sorry for the blast, bleat, bleep, boo, boom, bray,
homeless, compassionate, concerned, buzz, cackle, caw, chime, chink, chirp, chir-
merciful, pitying, sympathetic, un- rup, chug, clack, clamour, clang, dank,
derstanding. clap, clash, clatter, click, clink, cluck,
coo, crack, crackle, crash, creak, croak,
sort n 1 brand, category, class, clas- croon, crow, crunch, cry, drone, echo, ex-
sification, description, form, genre, plosion, fizz, grate, grizzle, groan, growl,
group, kind, make, mark, nature, grunt, gurgle, hiccup, hiss, honk, hoot,
quality, set, type, variety. 2 breed, howl, hum, jabber, jangle, jeer, jingle, lisp,
class, family, genus, race, species, low, miaow, moan, moo, murmur, neigh,
strain, stock, variety. • vb arrange, patter, peal, ping, pip, plop, pop, purr,
assort, catalogue, categorize, classify, quack, rattle, report, reverberation, ring,
divide, file, grade, group, order, or- roar, rumble, rustle, scream, screech,
ganize, put in order, rank, systemat- shout, shriek, sigh, sizzle, skirl, slam,
ize, tidy. Opp m ix . sort out 1 choose, slurp, smack, snap, snarl, sniff, snore,
inf put on one side, segregate, select, snort, sob, splutter, squawk, squeak,
separate, set aside. 2 sort out a prob- squeal, squelch, swish, throb, thud,
lem. attend to, clear up, cope with, thump, thunder, tick, ting, tinkle, toot,
deal with, find an answer to, grapple trumpet, twang, tweet, twitter, wail, war-
with, handle, manage, organize, put ble, whimper, whine, whinny, whir,
right, resolve, solve, straighten out, whistle, whiz, whoop, woof, yap. yell,
tackle. yelp, yodel, yowl. t> n o is e . • vb 1 be-
soul n 1 psyche, spirit. 2 [inj] poor come audible, be heard, echo, make
soullo PERSON. a noise, resonate, resound, reverber-
ate. 2 sound a signal, activate, cause,
soulful adj deeply felt, eloquent, create, make, make audible, produce,
emotional, expressive, fervent, heart- pronounce, set off, utter, sound out
felt, inspiring, moving, passionate, check, examine, inquire into, invest-
profound, sincere, spiritual, stirring, igate, measure, plumb, probe, re-
uplifting, warm. Opp s o u l l e s s . search, survey, test, try.
soulless adj cold, inhuman, insin- soup n broth, consomme, stock.
cere, mechanical, perfunctory, rou- sour adj 1 acid, acidic, acidulous, bit-
tine, spiritless, superficial, trite, ter, citrus, lemony, pungent, sharp,
unemotional, unfeeling, uninspiring, tangy, tart, unripe, vinegary. 2 sour
unsympathetic. Opp s o u l f u l . milk, bad, curdled, inf off, rancid,
397 spate
stale, turned. 3 sour remarks, acerbic, spar vb box, exchange blows, scrap,
bad-tempered, bitter, caustic, cross, shadow-box. > f ig h t .
crusty, curmudgeonly, cynical, disaf-
spare adj 1 additional, auxiliary,
fected, disagreeable, grudging, extra, free, inessential, in reserve,
grumpy, ill-natured, irritable, jaun-
leftover, odd, remaining, superflu-
diced, peevish, petulant, snappy, ous, supernumerary, supplementary,
testy, unpleasant.
surplus, unnecessary, unneeded,
source n 1 author, begetter, cause, unused, unwanted. Opp n e c e s s a r y . 2 a
creator, derivation, informant, ini- spare figure. t> t h in . • vb 1 be merciful
tiator, originator, root, starting- to, deliver, forgive, free, have mercy
point. 2 source of river, head, origin, on, let go, let off, liberate, pardon,
spring, start, well-head, well-spring. redeem, release, reprieve, save.
> BEGINNING. 2 spare money, time, etc. afford, allow,
donate, give, give up, manage, part
souvenir n heirloom, keepsake,
with, provide, sacrifice, sparing >
memento, relic, reminder.
ECONOMICAL, MISERLY.
sovereign adj 1 absolute, all-
spark n flash, flicker, gleam, glint,
powerful, dominant, highest, royal, scintilla, sparkle. • vb spark off
supreme, unlimited. 2 sovereign state.
ignite, kindle. > pr o v o k e .
autonomous, independent, self-gov-
erning. • n emperor, empress, king, sparkle vb burn, coruscate, flash,
monarch, prince, princess, queen. > flicker, gleam, glint, glitter, reflect,
RULER. scintillate, shine, spark, twinkle,
wink. > LIGHTEN.
sow vb broadcast, disseminate, plant,
scatter, seed, spread. sparkling adj 1 brilliant, flashing,
glinting, glittering, scintillating,
space adj extraterrestrial, inter- shining, shiny, twinkling. > b r ig h t .
planetary, interstellar, orbiting. • n Opp d u l l . 2 sparkling drinks, aerated,
1 emptiness, endlessness, infinity, bubbling, bubbly, carbonated, effer-
ionosphere, stratosphere, the uni- vescent, fizzy, foaming.
verse. 2 space to move about, inf elbow-
room, expanse, freedom, latitude, sparse adj inf few and far between,
leeway, margin, room, scope, spa- inadequate, light, little, meagre,
ciousness. 3 an empty space, area, scanty, scarce, scattered, sparing,
blank, break, chasm, concourse, dis- spread out, thin, inf thin on the
tance, duration, gap, hiatus, hole, ground. Opp pl e n t if u l .
intermission, interval, lacuna, lapse, spartan adj abstemious, ascetic, aus-
opening, place, spell, stretch, time, tere, bare, bleak, disciplined, frugal,
vacuum, wait. • vb space things out. > hard, harsh, plain, rigid, rigorous,
ARRANGE. severe, simple, stern, strict. Opp l u x -
spacious adj ample, broad, capa- u r io u s .
cious, commodious, extensive, large, spasm n attack, contraction, con-
open, roomy, sizeable, vast, wide. > vulsion, eruption, fit, jerk, outburst,
BIG. Opp SMALL. paroxysm, seizure, plur throes,
span n breadth, compass, distance,
twitch.
duration, extent, interval, length, spasmodic adj inf by fits and starts,
period, reach, scope, stretch, term, erratic, fitful, intermittent, inter-
width. • vb arch over, bridge, cross, rupted, irregular, jerky, occasional,
extend across, go over, pass over, inf on and off, periodic, sporadic. Opp
reach over, straddle, stretch over, tra- c o n t in u o u s , r e g u l a r .
verse. spate n cataract, flood, flow, gush,
spank vb slap, slipper, smack. > h it , inundation, onrush, outpouring,
PUNISH. rush, torrent.
spatter 398

spatter vb bespatter, besprinkle, devote yourself to, have a reputation

daub, pepper, scatter, shower, slop, for.
speckle, splash, splatter, spray, specialized adj esoteric, expert, spe-
sprinkle. cialist, unfamiliar.
speak vb answer, argue, articulate, species n breed, class, genus, kind,
ask, communicate, complain, con- face, sort, type, variety.
verse, declaim, declare, deliver a specific adj clear-cut, defined, def-
speech, discourse, ejaculate, enunci- inite, detailed, exact, explicit, ex-
ate, exclaim, express yourself, ful- press, fixed, identi-fied, individual,
minate, harangue, hold a conversa- itemized, known, named, particu-
tion, hold forth, object, inf pipe up, lar, peculiar, precise, predetermined,
plead, pronounce words, read aloud, special, specified, unequivocal. Opp
recite, say something, soliloquize, GENERAL.
inf speechify, talk, tell, use your
voice, utter, verbalize, vocalize, voice. specify vb be specific about, define,
t> SAY, TALK, speak about t> MENTION, denominate, detail, enumerate,
speak to a d d r e s s , speak your
establish, identify, itemize, list,
mind be honest, say what you think,
name, particularize, inf set out, spell
speak' honestly, speak out, state out, stipulate.
your opinion, voice your thoughts. specimen n example, exemplar,
illustration, instance, model, pattern,
speaker n lecturer, mouthpiece, or-
representative, sample.
ator, public speaker, spokesperson.
specious adj casuistic, deceptive,
spear n assegai, harpoon, javelin, misleading, plausible, seductive.
lance, pike.
speck n bit, crumb, dot, fleck, grain,
special adj 1 different, distin- mark, mite, old use mote, particle,
guished, exceptional, extraordinary, speckle, spot, trace.
important, infrequent, momentous, speckled adj blotchy, brindled,
notable, noteworthy, odd, inf out-of- dappled, dotted, flecked, freckled,
the-ordinary, rare, red-letter (day), mottled, patchy, spattered (with),
remarkable, significant, strange, spotted, spotty, sprinkled (with),
uncommon, unconventional, unor- stippled.
thodox, unusual. Opp o r d in a r y . 2
Petrol has a special smell, characteristic, spectacle n ceremonial, ceremony,
distinctive, idiosyncratic, mem- colourfulness, display, exhibition,
orable, peculiar, singular, unique, extravaganza, grandeur, magni-
unmistakable. 3 my special chair, espe- ficence, ostentation, pageantry,
cial, individual, particular, personal. parade, pomp, show, sight, spec-
4 a special tool for the job. bespoke, tacular effects, splendour, spec-
proper, specialized, specific. tacles t> GLASS.
spectacular adj beautiful, breath-
specialist n 1 authority, connois-
taking, colourful, dramatic, elab-
seur, expert, fancier (pigeon fancier), orate, eye-catching, impressive,
master, professional, inf pundit,
magnificent, derog ostentatious, sen-
researcher. 2 [medical] consultant. >
sational, showy, splendid, stunning,
MEDICINE.
spectator n plur audience,
speciality n inf claim to fame, beholder, bystander, plur crowd, eye-
expertise, field, forte, genius, in/line, witness, looker-on, observer, on-
specialization, special knowledge, looker, passer-by, viewer, watcher,
special skill, strength, strong point, witness.
talent.
spectre n apparition, ghost,
specialize vb specialize in be a spe- phantom, presentiment, vision,
cialist in, be best at, concentrate on, wraith. > s pir it .
399
spice
spectrum n compass, extent, speedy adj 1 expeditious, fast, old
gamut, orbit, range, scope, series, use fleet, nimble, quick, rapid, swift.
span, spread, sweep, variety. 2 a speedy exit, hasty, hurried, imme-
speculate vb 1 conjecture, consider, diate, precipitate, prompt, unhesit-
hypothesize, make guesses, med- ating. Opp SLOW.
itate, ponder, reflect, ruminate, sur- spell n 1 bewitchment, charm, con-
mise, theorize, weigh up, wonder. > juration, conjuring, enchantment,
t h in k . 2 speculate in shares, gamble, incantation, magic formula, sorceiy,
invest speculatively, inf play the mar- witchcraft, witcheiy. 2 the spell of the
ket, take a chance, wager. theatre, allure, captivation, charm,
speculative adj 1 abstract, based enthralment, fascination, glamour,
on guesswork, conjectural, doubtful, magic. 3 a spell of rain, interval,
inf gossipy, hypothetical, notional, period, phase, season. 4 a spell at the
suppositional, suppositious, theor- wheel, session, stint, stretch, term,
etical, unfounded, uninformed, time, tour of duty, turn, watch. • vb
unproven, untested. Opp pr o v e n . augur, bode, foretell, indicate, mean,
2 speculative investments, inf chancy, portend, presage, signal, signify, sug-
inf dicey, inf dodgy, hazardous, inf gest. Spell OUt t> CLARIFY.
iffy, risky, uncertain, unpredictable, spellbound adj bewitched, cap-
unreliable, unsafe. Opp s a f e . tivated, charmed, enchanted, en-
speech n 1 articulation, commun- thralled, entranced, fascinated,
ication, declamation, delivery, hypnotized, mesmerized, overcome,
diction, elocution, enunciation, overpowered, transported.
expression, pronunciation, speaking, spend vb 1 inf blue, consume, inf
talking, using words, utterance. cough up, disburse, exhaust, expend,
2 dialect, idiolect, idiom, jargon, lan- inf fork out, fritter, inf get through,
guage, parlance, register, tongue. 3 a invest, inf lash out, pay out, inf shell
public speech, address, discourse, dis- out, inf splash out, inf splurge, squan-
quisition, harangue, homily, lecture, der. 2 spend time, devote, fill, occupy,
oration, paper, presentation, ser- pass, use up, waste.
mon, inf spiel, talk, tirade. 4 speech in
spendthrift n inf big spender, prod-
a play, dialogue, lines, monologue,
igal, profligate, wasteful person,
soliloquy.
wastrel. Opp mis e r .
speechless adj dumb, dumb-
founded, dumbstruck, inarticulate, sphere n 1 ball, globe, globule, orb,
inf mum, mute, nonplussed, silent, spheroid. 2 sphere of influence, area,
thunderstruck, tongue-tied, voice- department, discipline, domain,
field, province, range, scope, special-
less. Opp TALKATIVE.
ity, subject, territoiy. 3 social sphere.
speed n 1 pace, rate, tempo, velocity. caste, class, domain, milieu, position,
2 alacrity, briskness, celerity, dis- rank, society, station, stratum, walk
patch, expeditiousness, fleetness, of life.
haste, huriy, quickness, rapidity,
speediness, swiftness. • vb 1 inf belt, spherical adj ball-shaped, globe-
inf bolt, inf bowl along, canter, shaped, globular, rotund, round,
career, dart, dash, flash, flit, fly, gal- spheric, spheroidal.
lop, inf go like the wind, hasten, spice n 1 flavouring, piquancy, rel-
huriy, hurtle, make haste, move ish, seasoning. □ allspice, bayleaf cap-
quickly, inf nip, inf put your foot sicum, cardamom, cassia, cayenne, chilli,
down, race, run, rush, shoot, sprint, cinnamon, cloves, coriander, curry pow-
stampede, streak, tear, inf zoom. der, ginger, grains of paradise, juniper,
2 speed on the road, break the speed mace, nutmeg, paprika, pepper, pimento,
limit, go too fast, speed up > a c c e l - poppy seed, saffron, sesame, turmeric.
er a t e. 2 add spice to life, colour, excitement,
spicy 400

gusto, interest, inf lift, inf pep, sharp- motivation, optimism, pluck, resolve,
ness, stimulation, vigour, zest. valour, verve, vivacity, will-power,
spicy adj aromatic, fragrant, gingery, zest. 5 > ALCOHOL.
highly flavoured, hot, peppery, spirited adj active, animated,
piquant, pungent, seasoned, spiced, assertive, brave, brisk, buoyant,
tangy, zestful. Opp b l a n d . courageous, daring, determined,
spike n barb, nail, pin, point, pro- dynamic, energetic, enterprising,
jection, prong, skewer, spine, stake, enthusiastic, frisky, gallant, inf gutsy,
tine. • vb impale, perforate, pierce, intrepid, lively, mettlesome, plucky,
skewer, spear, spit, stab, stick. positive, resolute, sparkling,
spill vb 1 overturn, slop, splash sprightly, vigorous, vivacious. Opp
about, tip over, upset. 2 brim, flow, SPIRITLESS.
overflow, pour, run. 3 lorry spilled its spiritless adj apathetic, cowardly,
load, discharge, drop, scatter, shed, defeatist, despondent, dispirited,
tip. dull, irresolute, lacklustre, languid,
spin vb 1 gyrate, pirouette, revolve, lethargic, lifeless, listless, melan-
rotate, swirl, turn, twirl, twist, wheel, choly, negative, passive, slow, un-
whirl.;,2 head was spinning, be giddy, enterprising, unenthusiastic. Opp
reel, suffer vertigo, swim, spin out SPIRITED.
> PRQLONG. spiritual adj devotional, divine,
spindle n axis, axle, pin, rod, shaft, eternal, heavenly, holy, incor-
spine n 1 backbone, spinal column, poreal, inspired, other-worldly, re-
vertebrae. 2 hedgehog’s spines, barb, ligious, sacred, unworldly, visionary.
bristle, needle, point, prickle, prong, Opp TEMPORAL.
quill, spike, spur, thorn.
spit n 1 dribble, saliva, spittle, spu-
spineless adj cowardly, craven, tum. • vb dribble, expectorate, sal-
faint-hearted, feeble, helpless, irres- ivate, splutter, spit out t> d is c h a r g e .
olute, inf lily-livered, pusillanimous, spitting image t> t w in .
inf soft, timid, unheroic, weedy, inf
wimpish. > w e a k . Opp b r a v e . spite n animosity, animus, antag-
onism, inf bitchiness, bitterness, inf
spiral adj cochlear, coiled, corkscrew,
cattiness, gall, grudge, hate, hatred,
turning, whorled. • n coil, curl, helix,
hostility, ill-feeling, ill will, malevol-
screw, whorl. • vb 1 turn, twist. 2
spiralling prices. t> f a l l , r is e . ence, malice, maliciousness, malig-
nity, rancour, resentment, spleen,
spire n fleche, pinnacle, steeple, venom, vindictiveness. • vb t> a n n o y .
spirit n 1 Lat anima, breath, mind,
psyche, soul. 2 supernatural spirits. spiteful adj acid, acrimonious, inf
apparition, inf bogy, demon, devil, bitchy, bitter, inf catty, cruel, cutting,
genie, ghost, ghoul, gremlin, hob- hatefill, hostile, hurtful, ill-natured,
goblin, imp, incubus, nymph, phan- invidious, malevolent, malicious,
tasm, phantom, poltergeist, poet nasty, poisonous, punitive, ran-
shade, shadow, spectre, inf spook, corous, resentful, revengeful, sharp,
sprite, sylph, vision, visitant, wraith, inf snide, sour, unforgiving, ven-
zombie. 3 spirit of a poem, aim, atmo- omous, vicious, vindictive. Opp k in d .
sphere, essence, feeling, heart, inten- splash vb 1 bespatter, besprinkle,
tion, meaning, mood, purpose, sense. shower, slop, inf slosh, spatter, spill,
4 fighting spirit, animation, bravery, splatter, spray, sprinkle, squirt,
cheerfulness, confidence, courage, wash. 2 splash about in water, bathe,
daring, determination, dynamism, dabble, paddle, wade. 3 splash news
energy, enthusiasm, fire, fortitude, across the front page, blazon, display,
inf get-up-and-go, inf go, inf guts, exhibit, flaunt, inf plaster, publicize,
heroism, liveliness, mettle, morale, show, spread, splash out t> s pe n d .
 401
sporadic
splay vb make a V-shape, slant, spoiled in the heat, become useless,
spread. curdle, decay, decompose, go bad, inf
splendid adj admirable, aweinspir- go off, moulder, perish, putrefy, rot,
ing, beautiful, brilliant, costly, daz- inf turn. 3 spoil children, coddle, cos-
zling, dignified, elegant, fine, set, dote on, indulge, make a fuss of,
first-class, glittering, glorious, gor- mollycoddle, over-indulge, pamper,
geous, grand, great, handsome, spoken adj oral, unwritten, verbal,
imposing, impressive, lavish, luxuri- Lat viva voce. Opp w r it t e n .
ous, magnificent, majestic, marvel- spokesperson n mouthpiece, rep-
lous, noble, ornate, derog resentative, spokesman, spokes-
ostentatious, palatial, inf posh, reful- woman.
gent, regal, resplendent, rich, royal,
derog showy, spectacular, inf splen- sponge vb 1 clean, cleanse, mop,
diferous, stately, sublime, sumptu- rinse, sluice, swill, wash, wipe. 2 [in/|
ous, inf super, superb, supreme, sponge on friends, be dependent (on),
wonderful. > e x c e l l e n t . cadge (from), scrounge (from).
splendour n beauty, brilliance, cere- spongy adj absorbent, compressible,
mony, costliness, display, elegance, elastic, giving, porous, soft, springy,
inf glitter, glory, grandeur, luxury, yielding. Opp s o l id .
magnificence, majesty, nobility, sponsor n inf angel, backer, bene-
ostentation, pomp, pomp and cir- factor, donor, patron, promoter, sup-
cumstance, refulgence, richness, porter. • vb back, be a sponsor of,
show, spectacle, stateliness, sump- finance, fund, help, patronize, pro-
tuousness. mote, subsidize, support, under-
splice vb bind, conjoin, entwine, write.
join, knit, marry, tie together, unite. sponsorship n aegis, auspices, back-
splinter n chip, flake, fragment, ing, benefaction, funding, guarantee,
shard, shaving, shiver, sliver. • vb patronage, promotion, support.
chip, crack, fracture, shatter, shiver, spontaneous adj 1 infad lib, extem-
smash, split. > b r e a k . pore, impromptu, impulsive, in/off-
split n 1 break, chink, cleavage, cleft, the-cuff, unplanned, unpremedit-
crack, cranny, crevice, fissure, fur- ated, unprepared, unrehearsed,
row, gash, groove, leak, opening, voluntary. 2 a spontaneous reaction.
rent, rift, rip, rupture, slash, slit, tear. automatic, instinctive, instinctual,
2 breach, dichotomy, difference, dis-
involuntary, mechanical, natural,
sension, divergence of opinion, divi- reflex, unconscious, unconstrained,
sion, divorce, estrangement, schism, unforced, unthinking. Opp pr e me d it -
a t ed.
separation. > q u a r r e l . • vb 1 break
up, disintegrate, divide, divorce, go spooky adj creepy, eerie, frighten-
separate ways, move apart, separate. ing, ghostly, haunted, mysterious,
2 split logs, burst, chop, cleave, crack, scary, uncanny, unearthly, weird.
rend, rip apart, rip open, slash, slice, spool n bobbin, reel.
slit, splinter, tear. > CUT. 3 split spoon n dessert-spoon, ladle, table-
profits, allocate, allot, apportion, dis- spoon, teaspoon.
tribute, divide, halve, share. 4 road
splits, bifurcate, branch, diverge, fork, spoon-feed vb cosset, help, indulge,
split on > INFORM.
mollycoddle, pamper, spoil.
spoil vb 1 blight, blot, blotch, bungle, spoor n footprints, scent, traces,
damage, deface, destroy, disfigure, track.
inf dish, harm, injure, inf make a sporadic adj erratic, fitful, inter-
mess of, mar, in/mess up, ruin, stain, mittent, irregular, occasional, peri-
undermine, undo, upset, vitiate, odic, scattered, separate, unpredict-
worsen, wreck. Opp im pr o v e . 2 food able.
 402
sport
sport n 1 activity, amusement, diver- picnic, locale, locality, location, neigh-
sion, enjoyment, entertainment, bourhood, place, point, position,
exercise, fun, games, pastime, play, scene, setting, site, situation. 5 an
pleasure, recreation. □ aerobics, awkward spot, difficulty, dilemma,
angling, archery, athletics, badminton, embarrassment, mess, predicament,
base-ball, basketball, billiards, blood quandary, situation. 6 spot of bother.
sports, bobsleigh, bowls, boxing, canoe- bit, small amount, inf smidgen. • vb
ing, climbing, cricket, croquet, cross-coun- 1 blot, discolour, fleck, mark, mottle,
try, curling, darts, decathlon, discus, smudge, spatter, speckle, splash,
fishing, football, gliding, golf, gym- spray, stain. 2 > s e e .
nastics, hockey, hunting, hurdling, ice- spotless adj 1 clean, fresh, im-
hockey, javelin, jogging, keep-fit, lacrosse, maculate, laundered, unmarked, un-
marathon, martial arts, mountaineering, spotted, white. 2 spotless reputation.
netball, orienteering, pentathlon, inf blameless, faultless, flawless, im-
ping-pong, polo, pool, pot-holing, quoits, maculate, innocent, irreproachable,
racing, rock-climbing, roller-skating, pure, unblemished, unsullied, un-
rounders, rowing, Rugby, running, sail- tarnished, inf whiter than white.
ing, shooting, shot, show-jumping, skat-
ing, skiing, skin-diving, sky-diving, spotty adj blotchy, dappled, flecked,
snooker, soccer, squash, street-hockey, freckled, mottled, pimply, pock-
surfing, surf-riding, swimming, table- marked, pocky, spattered, speckled,
tennis, tennis, tobogganing, trampolin- speckly, inf splodgy, spotted.
ing, volley-ball, water-polo, water-skiing, spouse n better half, old use help-
wind-surfing, winter sports, wrestling, mate, husband, partner, wife.
yachting. > a t h l e t ic s , r a c e . 2 badinage, spout n duct, fountain, gargoyle,
banter, humour, jesting, joking, mer- geyser, jet, lip, nozzle, outlet, rose
riment, raillery, teasing. • vb 1 caper, (of watering-can), spray, waterspout.
cavort, divert yourself, frisk about, • vb 1 discharge, emit, erupt, flow,
frolic, gambol, lark about, rollick, gush, jet, pour, shoot, spew, spit,
romp, skip about. 2 sport new clothes. spurt, squirt, stream. 2 > t a l k .
display, exhibit, flaunt, show off,
wear. sprawl vb 1 flop, lean back, lie, loll,
lounge, recline, relax, slouch, slump,
sporting adj considerate, fair, gen-
spread out, stretch out. 2 be scat-
erous, good-humoured, honourable,
tered, branch out, spread, straggle.
sportsmanlike.
spray n 1 drizzle, droplets, fountain,
sportive adj coltish, frisky, kitten-
ish, light-hearted, playful, waggish. > mist, shower, splash, sprinkling.
SPRIGHTLY. 2 spray offlowers, arrangement, bou-
quet, branch, bunch, corsage, posy,
sportsperson n contestant, parti- sprig. 3 spray for paint, aerosol, atom-
cipant, player, sportsman, sports- izer, spray-gun, sprinkler, vaporizer.
woman. • vb diffuse, disperse, scatter,
sporty adj 1 active, athletic, ener- shower, spatter, splash, spread in
getic, fit, vigorous. 2 sporty clothes. droplets, sprinkle.
casual, informal, inf loud, rakish, spread n 1 broadcasting, broaden-
showy, inf snazzy. ing, development, diffusion, dis-
spot n 1 blemish, blot, blotch, dis- pensing, dispersal, dissemination,
coloration, dot, fleck, mark, patch, distribution, expansion, extension,
smudge, speck, speckle, stain, growth, increase, passing on, prolif-
stigma. 2 spot on the skin, birthmark, eration, promotion, promulgation.
boil, freckle, plur impetigo, mole, 2 spread of a bird’s wings, breadth,
naevus, pimple, pock, pock-mark, compass, extent, size, span, stretch,
plur rash, sty, whitlow, si zit. 3 spots sweep. 3 t> me a l . • vb 1 arrange, dis-
of rain, bead, blob, drop. 4 spot for a play, lay out, open out, unfold,
403 square
unfurl, unroll. 2 broaden, enlarge, prod, prompting, stimulus, urging.
expand, extend, fan out, get bigger, 2 motorway spur, branch, projection.
get longer, get wider, lengthen, inf • vb animate, egg on, encourage,
mushroom, proliferate, straggle, impel, incite, motivate, pressure,
widen. 3 spread news, advertise, pressurize, prick, prod, prompt, pro-
broadcast, circulate, diffuse, dis- vide an incentive, stimulate, urge.
pense, disperse, disseminate, dis-
spurn vb disown, give (someone) the
tribute, divulge, give out, make
known, pass on, pass round, pro- cold shoulder, jilt, rebuff, reject,
claim, promote, promulgate, publi- renounce, repel, repudiate, repulse,
cize, publish, scatter, sow, transmit. shun, snub, turn your back on.
4 spread butter, apply, cover a surface spy n contact, double agent, fifth
with, smear. columnist, si grass, infiltrator, in-
spree n inf binge, debauch, escapade, formant, informer, inf mole, private
inf fling, frolic, inf orgy, outing, revel. detective, secret agent, snooper,
> REVELRY. stool-pigeon, undercover agent. • vb
1 be a spy, be engaged in spying,
sprightly adj active, agile, animated,
eavesdrop, gather intelligence, in-
brisk, inf chipper, energetic, jaunty,
form, inf snoop. 2 > s e e . spy on keep
lively, nimble, inf perky, playful, under surveillance, inf tail, trail,
quickmoving, spirited, sportive, spry, watch.
vivacious. Opp l e t h a r g ic .
spring n 1 bounce, buoyancy, elasti- spying n counter-espionage, detect-
city, give, liveliness, resilience. ive work, eavesdropping, espionage,
2 clock spring, coil, mainspring. intelligence, snooping, surveillance.
3 spring of water, fount, fountain, squabble vb argue, bicker, clash, inf
geyser, source (of river), spa, well, row, wrangle. > q u a r r e l .
well-spring. • vb bounce, bound, hop,
jump, leap, pounce, vault, spring squalid adj 1 dingy, dirty, disgust-
from come from, derive from, pro- ing, filthy, foul, insalubrious, mean,
ceed from, stem from, spring up mucky, nasty, poverty-stricken,
appear, arise, burst forth, come up, repulsive, run-down, inf sleazy,
develop, emerge, germinate, grow, slummy, sordid, ugly, uncared-for,
shoot up, sprout. unpleasant, wretched. Opp c l e a n .
2 squalid behaviour, corrupt, degrad-
springy adj bendy, elastic, flexible, ing, dishonest, dishonourable, dis-
pliable, resilient, spongy, stretchy, reputable, immoral, scandalous, inf
supple. Opp r ig id . shabby, shameful, unethical, un-
sprinkle vb drip, dust, pepper, scat- worthy. Opp HONOURABLE.
ter, shower, spatter, splash, spray,
squander vb inf blow, inf blue, dis-
strew.
sipate, inf fritter, misuse, spend
sprint vb dash, inf hare, race, speed, unwisely, inf splurge, use up, waste.
inf tear. > r u n . Opp SAVE.
sprout n bud, shoot. • vb bud, come
square adj 1 perpendicular, rectan-
up, develop, emerge, germinate, gular, right-angled. 2 a square deal,
grow, shoot up, spring up. inf above-board, decent, equitable,
spruce adj clean, dapper, elegant, ethical, fair, honest, honourable,
groomed, inf natty, neat, inf posh, proper, inf right and proper, inf
smart, tidy, trim, well-dressed, well- straight. • n 1 piazza, plaza. 2 [inf an
groomed, inf well-turned-out. Opp old-fashioned square, bourgeois, con-
s c r u f f y . • vb spruce up > t id y . formist, conservative, conventional
spur n 1 encouragement, goad, im- person, die-hard, inf fuddy-duddy, inf
petus, incentive, incitement, in- old fogy, inf stick-in-the-mud, tradi-
ducement, motivation, motive, tionalist. • vb square an account. i>
 404
squash
s e t t l e , squared chequered, criss- 2 constant, continuing, durable,
crossed, marked in squares. established, immutable, lasting,
long-lasting, permanent, predictable,
squash vb 1 compress, crumple,
resolute, steadfast, unchanging,
crush, flatten, mangle, mash, pound,
unwavering. 3 a stable personality, bal-
press, pulp, smash, stamp on, tamp
anced, even-tempered, reasonable,
down, tread on. 2 squash into a room.
cram, crowd, pack, push, ram, shove, sane, sensible. Opp u n s t a b l e .
squeeze, stuff, thrust, wedge. stack n 1 accumulation, heap,
3 squash an uprising, control, put hill, hoard, mound, mountain, pile,
down, quash, quell, repress, sup- quantity, stock, stockpile, store. 2
press. 4 squash with a look, humiliate, chimney, pillar, smokestack. 3 stack
inf put down, silence, snub. ofhay. old use cock, haycock, haystack,
squashy adj mashed up, mushy,
rick, stook. • vb accumulate, amass,
pulpy, shapeless, soft, spongy, assemble, build up, collect, gather,
squelchy, yielding. Opp f ir m . heap, load, mass, pile, inf stash away,
stockpile.
squat adj burly, dumpy, plump,
podgy, short, stocky, thick, thickset. stadium n amphitheatre, arena,
Opp t a l l . • vb crouch, sit. ground, sports-ground.
squeamish adj inf choosy, dainty, staff n 1 baton, cane, crook, crosier,
fastidious, finicky, over-scrupulous, flagstaff, pike, pole, rod, sceptre,
particular, inf pernickety, prim, inf shaft, stake, standard, stave, stick,
prissy, prudish, scrupulous. token, wand. 2 staff of a business, as-
sistants, crew, employees, old use
squeeze vb 1 clasp, compress, crush, hands, personnel, officers, team,
embrace, enfold, exert pressure on, workers, workforce. • vb man, pro-
flatten, grip, hug, mangle, pinch, vide with staff, run.
press, squash, stamp on, tread on,
wring. 2 cram, crowd, pack, push, stage n 1 apron, dais, performing
ram, shove, squash, stuff, tamp, area, platform, podium, proscenium,
thrust, wedge, squeeze out expel, rostrum. 2 stage of a journey, junc-
extrude, force out. ture, leg, phase, period, point, time.
• vb arrange, inf get up, mount, or-
squirm vb twist, wriggle, writhe, ganize, perform, present, produce,
squirt vb ejaculate, eject, gush, jet, inf put on, set up, stage-manage.
send out, shoot, spit, splash, spout, stagger vb 1 falter, lurch, pitch, reel,
spray, spurt. rock, stumble, sway, teeter, totter,
stab n 1 blow, cut, jab, prick, punc- walk unsteadily, waver, wobble.
ture, thrust, wound, wounding. 2 price staggered us. alarm, amaze,
2 stab of pain. > pa in . • vb bayonet, astonish, astound, confuse, dismay,
cut, injure, jab, lance, perforate, dumbfound, flabbergast, shake,
pierce, puncture, skewer, spike, shock, startle, stun, stupefy, surprise,
stick, thrust, transfix, wound, have a worry.
stab at > TRY. stagnant adj motionless, sluggish,
stability n balance, constancy, dur- stale, standing, static, still, without
ability, equilibrium, firmness, im- movement. Opp m o v in g .
mutability, permanence, reliability, stagnate vb achieve nothing,
solidity, soundness, steadiness, become stale, be stagnant, degener-
strength. Opp in s t a b il it y . ate, deteriorate, idle, languish, stand
stabilize vb balance, become stable, still, stay still, vegetate. Opp pr o g r e s s .
give stability to, keep upright, make stain n 1 blemish, blot, blotch, dis-
stable, settle. Opp u ps e t . coloration, mark, smear, smudge,
stable adj 1 balanced, firm, fixed, speck, spot. 2 a wood stain, colouring,
solid, sound, steady, strong, sturdy. dye, paint, pigment, tinge, tint, var-
 405 standard
nish. • vb 1 blacken, blemish, blot, stammer vb falter, hesitate, hem
contaminate, dirty, discolour, make and haw, splutter, stumble, stutter.
dirty, mark, smudge, soil, tarnish. t> TALK.
2 stain your reputation, besmirch,
stamp n 1 brand, die, hallmark,
damage, defile, disgrace, shame, impression, imprint, print, punch,
spoil, sully, taint. 3 stain wood, colour, seal. 2 stamp of genius, characteristic,
dye, paint, tinge, tint, varnish.
mark, sign. 3 stamp on a letter, frank-
stair n riser, step, tread, stairs es- ing, postage stamp. • vb 1 bring
calator, flight of stairs, staircase, down, strike, thump. 2 stamp a mark.
stairway, steps. brand, emboss, engrave, impress,
stake n 1 paling, palisade, pike, pile, imprint, label, mark, print, punch,
pillar, pole, post, rod, sceptre, shaft, stamp on > s u ppr e s s , stamp out
standard, stave, stick, upright. 2 a t> ELIMINATE.
gambler’s stake, bet, pledge, wager. • stampede n charge, dash, flight,
vb 1 fasten, hitch, secure, tether, tie panic, rout, rush, sprint. • vb 1 bolt,
up. 2 stake a claim, establish, put on career, charge, dash, gallop, panic,
record, state. 3 stake my life on it. bet, run, rush, sprint, inf take to your
chance, gamble, hazard, risk, ven- heels, tear. 2 stampede cattle, frighten,
ture, wager, stake out define, panic, rout, scatter.
delimit, demarcate, enclose, fence in,
stand n 1 base, pedestal, rack, sup-
mark off, outline.
port, tripod, trivet. 2 booth, kiosk,
stale adj 1 dry, hard, limp, mouldy, stall. 3 grandstand, terraces. • vb
musty, inf off, old, inf past its best, 1 arise, get to your feet, get up, rise.
tasteless. 2 stale ideas, banal, cliched, 2 Stand it on the floor, arrange,
familiar, hackneyed, old-fashioned, deposit, erect, locate, place, position,
out-of-date, overused, stock, thread- put up, set up, situate, station,
bare, inf tired, trite, uninteresting, upend. 3 Trees stand along the avenue.
unoriginal, worn out. Opp f r e s h . be, be situated, exist. 4 My offer
stalemate n deadlock, impasse, stands, be unchanged, continue,
standstill. remain valid, stay. 5 Can’t stand
onions, abide, bear, endure, put up
stalk n branch, shaft, shoot, stem,
with, suffer, tolerate, inf wear, stand
trunk, twig. • vb 1 chase, dog, follow,
by > s u ppo r t , stand for > s y mb o l iz e .
haunt, hound, hunt, pursue, shadow,
stand in for t> d e pu t iz e , stand out t>
tail, track, trail. 2 stalk about, prowl,
s h o w , stand up for t> pr o t e c t , s u p -
rove, stride, strut. t> w a l k .
po r t . stand up to t> r e s is t .
stall n booth, compartment, kiosk,
standard adj accepted, accustomed,
stand, table. • vb be obstructive,
delay, hang back, haver, hesitate, approved, average, basic, classic,
pause, inf play for time, postpone,
common, conventional, customary,
prevaricate, procrastinate, put off,
definitive, established, everyday,
familiar, habitual, normal, official,
stonewall, stop, temporize, waste
ordinary, orthodox, popular, prevail-
time.
ing, prevalent, recognized, regular,
stalwart adj courageous, depend- routine, set, staple (diet), stock, tra-
able, determined, faithful, indomit- ditional, typical, universal, usual. Opp
able, intrepid, redoubtable, reliable, u n u s u a l . • n 1 archetype, benchmark,
resolute, robust, staunch, steadfast, criterion, example, exemplar, gauge,
sturdy, tough, trustworthy, valiant. grade, guide, guideline, ideal, level
t> BRAVE, STRONG. Opp WEAK. of achievement, measure, measure-
stamina n endurance, energy, inf ment, model, paradigm, pattern,
grit, indomitability, resilience, requirement, rule, sample, specifica-
staunchness, staying power, inf stick- tion, touchstone, yardstick.. 2 aver-
ability. age, level, mean, norm. 3 standard of
standardize 406

a regiment, banner, colours, ensign, springboard. Opp f in is h . 2 an unfair

flag, pennant. 4 lamp standard, col- start, advantage, edge, head-start,
umn, pillar, pole, post, support, opportunity. 3 bankloan gave me a
upright, standards > mo r a l it y . start, assistance, backing, financing,
standardize vb average out, con- help, inf leg-up, inf send-off, spon-
form to a standard, equalize, homo- sorship. 4 a nasty start, jump, shock,
genize, normalize, regiment, stereo- surprise. • vb 1 depart, embark, inf
type, systematize. get going, inf get under way, si hit
the road, inf kick off, leave, move off,
standoffish adj aloof, antisocial,
proceed, set off, set out. 2 start some-
cold, cool, distant, frosty, haughty, thing. activate, beget, begin, com-
remote, reserved, reticent, retiring, mence, create, embark on, engender,
secretive, self-conscious, inf snooty, establish, found, inf get cracking on,
taciturn, unapproachable, uncom- inf get off the ground, inf get the ball
municative, unforthcoming, un- rolling, give birth to, inaugurate, ini-
friendly, unsociable, withdrawn. Opp tiate, instigate, institute, introduce,
FRIENDLY. launch, open, originate, pioneer, set
standpoint n angle, attitude, belief, in motion, set up. Opp f in is h . 3 start at
opinion, perspective, point of view, sudden noise, blench, draw back,
positioh, stance, vantage point, view, flinch, jerk, jump, quail, recoil, shy,
viewpoint. spring up, twitch, wince, make
standstill n inf dead end, deadlock, someone start > STARTLE.
halt, inf hold-up, impasse, jam, stale-
startle vb agitate, alarm, catch
mate, stop, stoppage. unawares, disturb, frighten, give you
staple adj basic, chief, important, a start, jolt, make you jump, make
main, principal. > s t a n d a r d . you start, scare, shake, shock, sur-
star n 1 celestial body, sun. □ asteroid, prise, take aback, take by surprise,
comet, evening star, falling star, lodestar, upset, startling > s u r pr is in g .
morning star, nova, shooting star, super-
starvation n deprivation, famine,
nova. 2 asterisk, pentagram. 3 TV star.
hunger, malnutrition, undernour-
attraction, big name, celebrity, It
ishment, want.
diva, inf draw, idol, leading lady, lead-
ing man, personage, It prima donna, starve vb die of starvation, go hun-
starlet, superstar. > pe r f o r me r . gry, go without, perish, starve your-
starchy adj aloof, conventional, self diet, fast, go on hunger strike,
formal, prim, stiff. > u n f r ie n d l y . refuse food, starving > h u n g r y .
stare vb gape, inf gawp, gaze, glare, state n 1 plur circumstances, condi-
goggle, look fixedly, peer, stare at tion, fitness, health, mood, inf shape,
contemplate, examine, eye, scrutin- situation. 2 Agitation, excitement, inf
ize, study, watch. flap, panic, plight, predicament, inf
stark adj 1 austere, bare, bleak, tizzy. 3 a sovereign state, land, nation.
depressing, desolate, dreary, gloomy, > c o u n t r y . • vb affirm, announce,
grim. 2 stark contrast, absolute, clear, assert, asseverate, aver, commun-
complete, obvious, perfect, plain, icate, declare, express, formulate,
sharp, sheer, thoroughgoing, total, proclaim, put into words, report,
unqualified, utter. specify, submit, testify, voice. > s a y ,
SPEAK, TALK.
start n 1 beginning, birth, com-
mencement, creation, dawn, es- stately adj august, dignified, distin-
tablishment, founding, fount, guished, elegant, formal, grand,
inauguration, inception, initiation, imperial, imposing, impressive, lofty,
institution, introduction, launch, majestic, noble, pompous, regal,
onset, opening, origin, outset, point royal, solemn, splendid, striking. Opp
of departure, setting out, spring, in f o r ma l , stately home > m a n s io n .
407 steal
statement n account, affirmation, stay n 1 holiday, old use sojourn, stop,
announcement, annunciation, asser- stop-over, visit. 2 stay of execution. >
tion, bulletin, comment, commun- d e l a y . 3 > s u ppo r t . • vb 1 old use bide,
ication, communique, declaration, carry on, continue, endure, inf hang
disclosure, explanation, message, about, hold out, keep on, last, linger,
notice, proclamation, proposition, live on, loiter, persist, remain, sur-
report, testament, testimony, utter- vive, old use tarry, wait. 2 stay in a
ance. hotel, old use abide, be accommodated,
statesman n diplomat, politician, be a guest, be housed, board, dwell,
live, lodge, reside, settle, old use
static adj constant, fixed, immobile, sojourn, stop, visit. 3 stay judgement.
immovable, inert, invariable, motion- > DELAY.
less, passive, stable, stagnant, sta-
tionary, steady, still, unchanging, steadfast adj committed, constant,
unmoving. Opp mo b il e , v a r ia b l e . dedicated, dependable, determined,
station n 1 calling, caste, class,
devoted, faithful, firm, loyal, patient,
degree, employment, level, location, persevering, reliable, resolute,
occupation, place, position, post, resolved, single-minded, sound,
rank, situation, standing, status. stalwart, staunch, steady, true,
2 fire station, base, depot, headquar- trustworthy, trusty, unchanging,
ters, office. 3 radio station, channel, unfaltering, unflinching, unswerv-
company, transmitter, wavelength. ing, unwavering. > s t r o n g . Opp u n r e -
4 railway station, halt, platform, stop- l ia b l e .
ping-place, terminus, train station. steady adj 1 balanced, confident,
• vb assign, garrison, locate, place, fast, firm, immovable, poised, safe,
position, put, site, situate, spot, secure, settled, solid, stable, sub-
stand. stantial. 2 a steady flow, ceaseless,
stationary adj at a standstill, at changeless, consistent, constant,
rest, halted, immobile, immovable, continuous, dependable, endless,
motionless, parked, pausing, stand- even, incessant, invariable, never-
ing, static, still, stock-still, unmov- ending, nonstop, perpetual, per-
ing. Opp MOVING. sistent, regular, reliable, repeated,
rhythmic, inf round-the-clock, un-
stationery n paper, office supplies,
broken, unchanging, undeviating,
writing materials.
unfaltering, unhurried, uniform,
statistics n data, figures, informa- uninterrupted, unrelieved, unremit-
tion, numbers. ting, unvarying. Opp u n s t e a d y . 3 >
statue n carving, figure, statuette. > s t e a d f a s t . • vb 1 balance, brace, hold
SCULPTURE. steady, keep still, make steady,
secure, stabilize, support. 2 steady
statuesque adj dignified, elegant, your nerves, calm, control, soothe,
imposing, impressive, poised, stately, tranquillize.
upright.
steal vb 1 annex, appropriate, arrog-
stature n 1 build, height, size, tall-
ness. 2 artist of international stature. ate, burgle, commandeer, confiscate,
esteem, greatness, recognition. > s t a - embezzle, expropriate, inf filch,
hijack, inf knock off, inf lift, loot, inf
t u s.
make off with, misappropriate, inf
status n class, degree, eminence, nick, peculate, pick pockets, pilfer,
grade, importance, level, position, pillage, inf pinch, pirate, plagiarize,
prestige, prominence, rank, reputa- plunder, poach, purloin, inf rip you
tion, significance, standing, station, off, rob, seize, shop-lift, inf sneak, inf
stature, title. snitch, inf swipe, take, thieve, usurp,
staunch adj > s t e a d f a s t . walk off with. 2 steal quietly upstairs.
 408
stealing
creep, move stealthily, slink, slip, stereoscopic adj solid-looking,
sneak, tiptoe. three-dimensional, inf 3-D.
stealing n robbery, theft, thieving. stereotype n formula, model, pat-
□ break-in, burglary, embezzlement, tern, stereotyped idea.
fraud, hijacking, housebreaking, larceny, stereotyped adj cliched, conven-
looting, misappropriation, mugging, pec- tional, formalized, hackneyed, pre-
ulation, pilfering, pillage, piracy, pla- dictable, standard, standardized,
giarism, plundering, poaching, stock, typecast, unoriginal.
purloining, scrumping, shop-lifting.
sterile adj 1 arid, barren, childless,
stealthy adj clandestine, concealed, dry, fruitless, infertile, lifeless,
covert, disguised, furtive, imper- unfruitful, unproductive. 2 sterile
ceptible, inconspicuous, quiet, bandage, antiseptic, aseptic, clean,
secret, secretive, inf shifty, sly, inf disinfected, germ-free, hygienic,
sneaky, surreptitious, underhand, pure, sanitary, sterilized, uncontam-
unobtrusive. Opp b l a t a n t . inated, uninfected, unpolluted. 3 a
steam n condensation, haze, mist, sterile attempt, abortive, fruitless,
smoke, vapour. hopeless, pointless, unprofitable,
steamy adj 1 blurred, clouded, useless. Opp f e r t il e , f r u it f u l , s e pt ic .
cloudy, fogged over, foggy, hazy, sterilize vb 1 clean, cleanse, decon-
misted over, misty. 2 a steamy atmo- taminate, depurate, disinfect, fu-
sphere. close, damp, humid, moist, migate, make sterile, pasteurize,
muggy, inf sticky, sultry, sweaty, purify. 2 sterilize animals, caponize,
sweltering. 3 [infl steamy sex scenes. > castrate, emasculate, geld, neuter,
SEXY. perform a vasectomy on, spay, vas-
steep adj 1 abrupt, bluff, headlong, ectomize.
perpendicular, precipitous, sharp, stern adj adamant, austere, author-
sheer, sudden, vertical. Opp g r a d u a l . itarian, critical, dour, forbidding,
2 steep prices. > e x pe n s iv e . • vb > s o a k . frowning, grim, hard, harsh, inflex-
steeple n pinnacle, point, spire, ible, obdurate, resolute, rigid, rigor-
steer vb be at the wheel, control, ous, severe, strict, stringent, tough,
direct, drive, guide, navigate, pilot, unbending, uncompromising, unre-
steer clear of > a v o id . lenting, unremitting. > s e r io u s . Opp
s o f t -h e a r t e d . • n stem of ship, aft, back,
stem n peduncle, shoot, stalk, stock,
rear end.
trunk, twig. • vb arise, come, de-
rive, develop, emanate, flow, issue, stew n casserole, goulash, hash, hot-
originate, proceed, result, spring, pot, ragout. • vb boil, braise, cas-
sprout. 2 to stem the flow. > c h e c k . serole, simmer. > c o o k .
stench n mephitis, inf pong, reek, steward, stewardess ns 1 atten-
stink. > SMELL. dant, waiter. > s e r v a n t . 2 marshal,
step n 1 footfall, footstep, pace, officer, official.
stride, tread. 2 doorstep, rung, stair, stick n branch, stalk, twig, obar,
tread. 3 a step forward, advance, baton, cane, club, hockey-stick, pike, pole,
move, movement, progress, progres- rod, staff, stake, walking-stick, wand. •
sion. 4 step in a process, action, initi- vb 1 bore, dig, impale, jab, penetrate,
ative, manoeuvre, measure, phase, pierce, pin, poke, prick, prod, punch,
procedure, stage. • vb put your foot, puncture, run through, spear, spike,
stamp, stride, trample, tread. > w a l k . spit, stab, thrust, transfix. 2 stick with
steps ladder, stairs, staircase, stair- glue, adhere, affix, agglutinate, bind,
way, stepladder, step down > r e s ig n . bond, cement, cling, coagulate, fuse
step in > e n t e r , in t e r v e n e , step on it together, glue, gum, paste, solder,
> h u r r y , step up > in c r e a s e , take weld. > f a s t e n . 3 stick in your mind, be
steps > BEGIN. fixed, continue, endure, keep on,
409 stingy
last, linger, persist, remain, stay. stigma n blot, brand, disgrace, dis-
4 stick in mud. become trapped, get honour, mark, reproach, shame, slur,
bogged down, seize up, jam, wedge. stain, taint.
5t> t o l e r a t e , stick at t> pe r s is t , stick
stigmatize vb brand, condemn,
in t> PENETRATE. Stick out > PROTRUDE,
stick together t> u n it e , stick up >
defame, denounce, disparage, label,
mark, pillory, slander, vilify.
PROTRUDE, stick up for t> d e f e n d , stick
with t> SUPPORT. still adj at rest, calm, even, flat,
sticky adj 1 adhesive, glued, hushed, immobile, inert, lifeless,
gummed, self-adhesive. 2 sticky paint. motionless, noiseless, pacific, peace-
gluey, glutinous, inf gooey, gummy, ful, placid, quiet, restful, serene,
tacky, viscous. 3 sticky weather. silent, smooth, soundless, stagnant,
clammy, close, damp, dank, humid, static, stationary, tranquil, unmov-
moist, muggy, steamy, sultry, ing, unruffled, untroubled, windless.
sweaty. Opp d r y . Opp a c t iv e , n o is y . • vb allay, appease,
assuage, calm, lull, make still, pacify,
stiff adj 1 compact, dense, firm, hard, quieten, settle, silence, soothe, sub-
heavy, inelastic, inflexible, rigid, due, suppress, tranquillize. Opp a g it -
semi-solid, solid, solidified, thick, a t e.
tough, unbending, unyielding, vis-
cous. 2 stiff joints, arthritic, immov- stimulant n antidepressant, drug,
able, painfiil, paralysed, rheumatic, inf pick-me-up, restorative, inf re-
taut, tight. 3 a stiff task, arduous, viver, inf shot in the arm, tonic. >
challenging, difficult, exacting, STIMULUS.
exhausting, hard, laborious, tiring, stimulate vb activate, arouse,
tough, uphill. 4 stiff opposition, deter- awaken, cause, encourage, excite,
mined, dogged, obstinate, powerful, fan, fire, foment, galvanize, goad,
resolute, stubborn, unyielding, vig- incite, inflame, inspire, instigate,
orous. 5 a stiff manner, artificial, awk- invigorate, kindle, motivate, prick,
ward, clumsy, cold, forced, formal, prompt, provoke, quicken, rouse, set
graceless, haughty, inelegant, off, spur, stir up, titillate, urge, whet.
laboured, mannered, pedantic, self- Opp d is c o u r a g e .
conscious, standoffish, starchy, stimulating adj arousing, challeng-
stilted, inf stuffy, tense, turgid, ing, exciting, exhilarating, inspira-
ungainly, unnatural, wooden. 6 stiff tional, inspiring, interesting,
penalties, cruel, drastic, excessive, intoxicating, invigorating, provoc-
harsh, hurtful, merciless, pitiless, ative, provoking, rousing, stirring,
punishing, punitive, relentless, rig- thought-provoking, titillating. Opp
orous, severe, strict. 7 stiff wind. UNINTERESTING.
brisk, fresh, strong. 8 stiff drink, al-
coholic, potent, strong. Opp e a s y , stimulus n challenge, encour-
RELAXED, SOFT. agement, fillip, goad, incentive, in-
ducement, inspiration, prompting,
stiffen vb become stiff, clot, coagu-
provocation, spur, stimulant. Opp d is -
late, congeal, dry out, harden, c o u r a g e me n t .
jell, set, solidify, thicken, tighten,
toughen. sting n bite, prick, stab. t> pa in . • vb
1 bite, nip, prick, wound. 2 smart,
stifle vb 1 asphyxiate, choke,
tingle. > hur t .
smother, strangle, suffocate,
throttle. 2 stifle laughter, check, stingy adj 1 avaricious, cheesepar-
control, curb, dampen, deaden, ing, close, close-fisted, covetous,
keep back, muffle, restrain, suppress, mean, mingy, miserly, niggardly,
withhold. 3 stifle free speech, crush, parsimonious, penny-pinching, tight-
destroy, extinguish, kill off, quash, fisted, ungenerous. 2 stingy helpings,
repress, silence, stamp out, stop. inadequate, insufficient, meagre, inf
stink 410

measly, scanty. > s ma l l . Opp g e n e r - sell, supply, trade in. out of stock
o u s. sold out, unavailable, take stock
stink n, vb > s me l l .
> REVIEW.
stockade n fence, paling, palisade,
stipulate vb demand, insist on,
wall.
make a stipulation, require, specify.
stockings n nylons, panti-hose,
stipulation n condition, demand,
socks, tights.
prerequisite, proviso, requirement,
specification. stockist n merchant, retailer, seller,
shopkeeper, supplier.
stir n > c o m m o t io n . • vb 1 agitate,
stocky adj burly, compact, dumpy,
beat, blend, churn, mingle, mix,
move about, scramble, whisk. 2 stir heavy-set, short, solid, squat, stubby,
from sleep, arise, bestir yourself, inf sturdy, thickset. Opp t h in .
get a move on, inf get going, get up, stodgy adj 1 filling, heavy, indi-
move, rise, inf show signs of life, inf gestible, lumpy, soggy, solid, starchy.
stir your stumps. 3 stir emotions, ac- Opp s u c c u l e n t . 2 a stodgy lecture, bor-
tivate, affect, arouse, awaken, chal- ing, dull, ponderous, inf stuffy,
lenge; disturb, electrify, excite, tedious, tiresome, turgid, unexciting,
exhilarate, fire, impress, inspire, unimaginative, uninteresting. Opp
kindle, move, resuscitate, revive, LIVELY.
rouse, stimulate, touch, upset. stoical adj calm, cool, disciplined,
stirring adj affecting, arousing, chal- impassive, imperturbable, long-suf-
lenging, dramatic, electrifying, emo- fering, patient, philosophical, phleg-
tional, emotion-charged, emotive, matic, resigned, stolid, uncomplain-
exciting, exhilarating, heady, impas- ing, unemotional, unexcitable,
sioned, inspirational, inspiring, inter- inf unflappable. Opp e x c it a b l e .
esting, intoxicating, invigorating, stoke vb fuel, keep burning, mend,
moving, provocative, provoking, put fuel on, tend.
rousing, spirited, stimulating, stole n cape, shawl, wrap.
thought-provoking, thrilling, titillat-
ing, touching. Opp u n e x c it in g . stolid adj bovine, dull, heavy, immov-
able, impassive, lumpish, phleg-
stitch vb darn, mend, repair, sew, matic, unemotional, unexciting,
tack. unimaginative, wooden. > s t o ic a l .
stock adj accustomed, banal, cliched, Opp LIVELY.
common, commonplace, conven- stomach n abdomen, belly, inf guts,
tional, customary, expected, hack- inf insides, derog paunch, derog pot,
neyed, ordinary, predictable, regular, inf tummy. • vb > t o l e r a t e .
routine, run-of-the-mill, set, stand-
stomach-ache n colic, inf colly-
ard, staple, stereotyped, inf tired,
wobbles, inf gripes, inf tummy-ache.
traditional, trite, unoriginal, usual.
Opp u n e x pe c t e d . • n 1 cache, hoard, stone n 1 boulder, cobble, plur
reserve, reservoir, stockpile, store, gravel, pebble, rock, plur scree. >
supply. 2 stock of a shop, commodities, r o c k . 2 block, flagstone, sett, slab.
goods, merchandise, range, wares. 3 a memorial stone, gravestone, head-
3 farm stock, animals, beasts, cattle, stone, memorial, monolith, obelisk,
flocks, herds, livestock. 4 ancient stock. tablet. 4 precious stone. > je w e l . 5 stone
ancestry, blood, breed, descent, in fruit, pip, pit, seed.
dynasty, extraction, family, fore- stony adj 1 pebbly, rocky, rough,
bears, genealogy, line, lineage, shingly. 2 stony silence, adamant,
parentage, pedigree. 5 meat stock. chilly, cold, coldhearted, expression-
broth, soup. • vb carry, deal in, less, frigid, hard, inf hardboiled,
handle, have available, inf keep, heartless, hostile, icy, indifferent,
keep in stock, market, offer, provide, insensitive, merciless, pitiless, steely,
 411
straggle
stony-hearted, uncaring, unemo- storage, depot, granary, larder, pantry,
tional, unfeeling, unforgiving, safe, silo, stock-room, strong-room, treas-
unfriendly, unresponsive, unsym- ury, vault, warehouse.
pathetic. storey n deck, floor, level, stage, tier,
stooge n butt, dupe, inf fall-guy, storm n 1 disturbance, onslaught,
lackey, puppet. outbreak, outburst, stormy weather,
stoop vb 1 bend, bow, crouch, duck, tempest, tumult, turbulence. □ bliz-
hunch your shoulders, kneel, lean, zard, cloudburst, cyclone, deluge, dust-
squat. 2 condescend, degrade your- storm, electrical storm, gale, hailstorm,
self, deign, humble yourself, lower hurricane, mistral, monsoon, rainstorm,
yourself, sink. sandstorm, simoom, sirocco, snowstorm,
stop n 1 ban, cessation, close, con- squall, thunderstorm, tornado, typhoon,
clusion, end, finish, halt, shut-down, whirlwind. 2 storm of protest. > c l a m -
standstill, stoppage, termination. 2 a o u r . • vb t> ATTACK.
stop for refreshments, break, destina- stormy adj angiy, blusteiy, choppy,
tion, pause, resting-place, stage, sta- fierce, furious, gusty, raging, rough,
tion, stopover, terminus. 3 a stop at a squally, tempestuous, thundeiy,
hotel, holiday, old use sojourn, stay, tumultuous, turbulent, vehement,
vacation, visit. • vb 1 break off, call a violent, wild, windy. Opp c a l m .
halt to, cease, conclude, cut off, story n 1 account, anecdote, chron-
desist from, discontinue, end, finish, icle, fiction, histoiy, narration, nar-
halt, inf knock off, leave off, inf pack rative, plot, recital, record, scenario,
in, pause, quit, refrain from, rest tale, yam. □ allegory, children's story,
from, suspend, terminate. 2 stop the crime story, detective story, epic, fable,
flow, bar, block, check, curb, cut fairy-tale, fantasy, folk-tale, legend, mys-
off, delay, frustrate, halt, hamper, tery, myth, novel, parable, romance,
hinder, immobilize, impede, inter- saga, sciencefiction, SF, thriller, inf who-
cept, interrupt, inf nip in the bud, dunit. 2 story in newspaper, article, dis-
obstruct, put a stop to, stanch, patch, exclusive, feature, news item,
staunch, stem, suppress, thwart. piece, report, scoop. 3 falsehood, inf
3 stop in a hotel, be a guest, have a fib, lie, tall story, untruth.
holiday, old use sojourn, spend time,
stay, visit. 4 stop a gap. inf bung up, storyteller n author, biographer,
close, fill in, plug, seal. 5 stop a thief. narrator, raconteur, teller.
arrest, capture, catch, detain, hold, stout adj 1 inf beefy, big, bulky,
seize. 6 the rain stopped, be over, burly, inf chubby, corpulent, fleshy,
cease, come to an end, finish, peter heavy, inf hulking, overweight,
out. 7 the bus stopped, come to rest, plump, portly, solid, stocky, inf strap-
draw up, halt, pull up. ping, thick-set, inf tubby, well-built.
stopper n bung, cork, plug. > f a t . Opp t h in . 2 stout rope. durable,
reliable, robust, sound, strong,
store n 1 accumulation, cache, fund, sturdy, substantial, thick, tough.
hoard, quantity, reserve, reservoir, 3 stout fighter, bold, brave, coura-
stock, stockpile, supply. > s t o r e h o u s e . geous, fearless, gallant, heroic, in-
2 a grocery store, outlet, retail busi- trepid, plucky, resolute, spirited,
ness, retailers, supermarket. > s h o p . valiant. Opp w e a k .
• vb accumulate, aggregate, deposit,
hoard, keep, lay by, lay in, lay up, stove n boiler, cooker, fire, furnace,
preserve, put away, reserve, save, set heater, oven, range.
aside, inf stash away, stockpile, stock stow vb load, pack, put away, inf
up, stow away. stash away, store.
storehouse n depositoiy, repos- straggle vb be dispersed, be scat-
itory, storage, store, store-room. tered, dangle, dawdle, drift, fall
□ armoury, arsenal, bam, cellar, cold- behind, lag, loiter, meander, ramble,
straight 412

scatter, spread out, stray, string out, strand n fibre, filament, string,
trail, wander, straggling > d is o r - thread, wire. • vb 1 abandon, desert,
g a n iz e d , LOOSE. forsake, leave stranded, lose,
maroon. 2 strand a ship, beach,
straight adj 1 aligned, direct, flat,
ground, run aground, wreck,
linear, regular, smooth, true, un-
stranded > a g r o u n d , h e l pl e s s .
bending, undeviating, unswerv-
ing. 2 neat, orderly, organized, right, strange adj 1 abnormal, astonish-
inf shipshape, sorted out, spruce, ing, atypical, bizarre, curious, eerie,
tidy. 3 a straight sequence, consec- exceptional, extraordinary, fantastic,
utive, continuous, non-stop, perfect, inf funny, grotesque, irregular, odd,
sustained, unbroken, uninterrupted, out-of-the-ordinary, outre, peculiar,
unrelieved. 4 > s t r a ig h t f o r w a r d . Opp quaint, queer, rare, remarkable,
CROOKED, INDIRECT, UNTIDY. Straight singular, surprising, surreal, un-
away at once, directly, immediately, common, unexpected, unheard-of,
instantly, now, without delay. unique, unnatural, untypical, un-
usual. 2 strange neighbours, inf
straighten vb disentangle, make cranky, eccentric, sinister, uncon-
straight, put straight, rearrange, sort ventional, weird, in/zany. 3 a strange
out, ti.dy, unbend, uncurl, unravel, problem, baffling, bewildering, in-
untangle, untwist. explicable, insoluble, mysterious,
straightforward adj blunt, candid, mystifying, perplexing, puzzling,
direct, easy, forthright, frank, genu- unaccountable. 4 strange places, alien,
ine, honest, intelligible, lucid, open, exotic,, foreign, little-known, off the
plain, simple, sincere, straight, truth- beaten track, outlandish, out-of-the-
ful, uncomplicated. Opp d e v io u s . way, remote, unexplored, unmapped.
strain n 1 anxiety, difficulty, effort, 5 strange experience, different, fresh,
exertion, hardship, pressure, stress, new, novel, unaccustomed, unfamil-
tension, worry. 2 genetic strain. > iar. Opp FAMILIAR, ORDINARY.
a n c e s t r y . • vb 1 haul, heave, make strangeness n abnormality,
taut, pull, stretch, tighten, tug. bizarreness, eccentricity, eeriness,
2 strain to succeed, attempt, endeav- extraordinariness, irregularity, mys-
our, exert yourself, labour, make an teriousness, novelty, oddity, oddness,
effort, strive, struggle, toil, try. outlandishness, peculiarity, quaint-
3 strain yourself, exercise, exhaust, ness, queemess, rarity, singularity,
overtax, inf push to the limit, stretch, unconventionality, unfamiliarity.
tax, tire out, weaken, wear out, stranger n alien, foreigner, guest,
weary. 4 strain a muscle, damage, newcomer, outsider, visitor.
hurt, injure, overwork, pull, rick,
strangle vb.1 asphyxiate, choke, gar-
sprain, tear, twist, wrench. 5 strain
rotte, smother, stifle, suffocate,
liquid, clear, drain, draw off, filter,
throttle. 2 strangle a cry. > s u ppr e s s .
percolate, purify, riddle, screen, sep-
arate, sieve, sift. strangulate vb bind, compress, con-
strict, squeeze.
strained adj 1 artificial, constrained,
distrustful, embarrassed, false, strangulation n asphyxiation, gar-
forced, insincere, self-conscious, stiff, rotting, suffocation.
tense, uncomfortable, uneasy, unnat- strap n band, belt, strop, tawse,
ural. 2 strained look, drawn, tired, thong, webbing. • vb > f a s t e n .
weary. 3 strained interpretation, far- stratagem n artifice, device, inf
fetched, incredible, laboured, dodge, manoeuvre, plan, ploy, ruse,
unlikely, unreasonable. Opp n a t u r a l , scheme, subterfuge, tactic, trick.
RELAXED.
strategic adj advantageous, critical,
strainer n colander, filter, riddle, crucial, deliberate, key, planned,
sieve. politic, tactical, vital.
 413
stretch
strategy n approach, design, might, muscle, power, resilience,
manoeuvre, method, plan, plot, robustness, sinew, stamina, stout-
policy, procedure, programme, inf ness, sturdiness, toughness, vigour.
scenario, scheme, tactics. 2 strength of purpose, inf backbone,
stratum n layer, seam, table, thick- commitment, courage, determina-
ness, vein. tion, firmness, inf grit, perseverance,
straw n com, stalks, stubble. persistence, resolution, resolve,
spirit, tenacity. Opp w e a k n e s s .
stray adj 1 abandoned, homeless,
lost, roaming, roving, wandering. strengthen vb 1 bolster, boost,
2 stray bullets, accidental, casual, brace, buildup, buttress, encourage,
chance, haphazard, isolated, lone, fortify, harden, hearten, increase,
occasional, odd, random, single. • vb make stronger, prop up, reinforce,
1 get lost, get separated, go astray, stiffen, support, tone up, toughen.
meander, move about aimlessly, 2 strengthen an argument, back up,
ramble, range, roam, rove, straggle, consolidate, corroborate, enhance,
wander. 2 stray from the point, deviate, justify, substantiate. Opp w e a k e n .
digress, diverge, drift, get off the sub- strenuous adj 1 arduous, back-
ject, inf go off at a tangent, veer. breaking, burdensome, demanding,
streak n 1 band, bar, dash, line, difficult, exhausting, gruelling, hard,
mark, score, smear, stain, stria, stri- laborious, punishing, stiff, taxing,
ation, strip, stripe, stroke, vein. 2 a tough, uphill. Opp e a s y . 2 strenuous
selfish streak, component, element, efforts, active, committed, deter-
strain, touch, trace. 3 streak of good mined, dogged, dynamic, eager, ener-
luck, period, run, series, spate, spell, getic, herculean, indefatigable,
stretch, time. • vb 1 mark with laborious, pertinacious, resolute,
streaks, smear, smudge, stain, stri- spirited, strong, tenacious, tireless,
ate. 2 streak past, dart, dash, flash, unremitting, vigorous, zealous. Opp
fly, gallop, hurtle, move at speed, CASUAL.
rush, inf scoot, speed, sprint, tear, inf stress n 1 anxiety, difficulty, dis-
whip, zoom. tress, hardship, pressure, strain,
streaky adj barred, lined, smeary, tenseness, tension, trauma, worry.
smudged, streaked, striated, stripy, 2 accent, accentuation, beat, em-
veined. phasis, importance, significance,
underlining, urgency, weight. • vb
stream n 1 beck, brook, brooklet, 1 accent, accentuate, assert, draw
bum, channel, freshet, poet rill, river, attention to, emphasize, feature,
rivulet, streamlet, watercourse. 2 cas- highlight, insist on, lay stress on,
cade, cataract, current, deluge, efflu- mark, put stress on, repeat, spot-
ence, flood, flow, fountain, gush, jet, light, underline, underscore.
outpouring, rush, spate, spurt, surge, 2 stressed by work, burden, distress,
tide, torrent. • vb cascade, course, overstretch, pressure, pressurize,
deluge, flood, flow, gush, issue, pour, push to the limit, tax, weigh down.
run, spill, spout, spurt, squirt, surge,
well. stressful adj anxious, difficult, tax-
ing, tense, tiring, traumatic, worry-
streamer n banner, flag, pennant,
ing. Opp RELAXED.
pennon, ribbon.
stretch n 1 period, spell, stint, term,
streamlined adj 1 aerodynamic,
time, tour of duty. 2 stretch of country.
elegant, graceful, hydrodynamic, area, distance, expanse, length, span,
sleek, smooth. 2 t> e f f ic ie n t . spread, sweep, tract. • vb 1 broaden,
street n avenue, roadway, terrace. t> crane (your neck), dilate, distend, draw
ROAD. out, elongate, enlarge, expand,
strength n 1 brawn, capacity, con- extend, flatten out, inflate, lengthen,
dition, energy, fitness, force, health, open out, pull out, spread out, swell,
 414
strew
tauten, tighten, widen. 2 stretch into obvious, out-of-the-ordinary, out-
the distance, be unbroken, continue, standing, prominent, showy, stun-
disappear, extend, go, reach out, ning, telling, unmistakable, unusual.
spread. 3 stretch resources, overextend, Opp INCONSPICUOUS.
overtax, inf push to the limit, strain, string n 1 cable, cord, fibre, line,
tax. rope, twine. 2 chain, file, line, pro-
strew vb disperse, distribute, scat- cession, progression, queue, row,
ter, spread, sprinkle. sequence, series, stream, succession,
train. • vb string together connect,
strict adj 1 austere, authoritarian,
join, line up, link, thread, stringed
autocratic, firm, harsh, merciless, inf instruments strings. □ banjo, cello,
no-nonsense, rigorous, severe, stem, clavichord, double-bass, inffiddle, guitar,
stringent, tyrannical, uncompromis-
harp, harpsichord, lute, lyre, piano, sitar,
ing. Opp e a s y g o in g . 2 strict rules.
spinet, ukulele, viola, violin, zither.
absolute, binding, defined, inf hard
and fast, inflexible, invariable, pre- stringy adj chewy, fibrous, gristly,
cise, rigid, stringent, tight, un- sinewy, tough. Opp t e n d e r .
changeable. Opp FLEXIBLE. 3 Strict strip n band, belt, fillet, lath, line,
truthfulness. accurate, complete, cor- narrow piece, ribbon, shred, slat,
rect, exact, meticulous, perfect, pre- sliver, stripe, swathe. • vb 1 bare,
cise, .right, scrupulous. clear, decorticate, defoliate, denude,
stride n pace, step. • vb > w a l k . divest, old use doff, excoriate, flay, lay
bare, peel, remove the covering,
strident adj clamorous, discordant, remove the paint, remove the skin,
grating, harsh, jarring, loud, noisy, skin, uncover. Opp c o v e r . 2 strip to the
raucous, screeching, shrill, unmu- waist, bare yourself, disrobe, expose
sical. Opp SOFT. yourself, get undressed, uncover
strife n animosity, arguing, bicker- yourself. Opp d r e s s , strip down > d is -
ing, competition, conflict, discord, ma n t l e . Strip Off I> UNDRESS.
disharmony, dissension, enmity, fric- stripe n band, bar, chevron, line, rib-
tion, hostility, quarrelling, rivalry, bon, streak, striation, strip, stroke,
unfriendliness. > f ig h t . Opp c o o pe r a - swathe.
t io n .
striped adj banded, barred, lined,
strike n 1 go-slow, industrial action, streaky, striated, stripy.
stoppage, walk-out, withdrawal of
strive vb attempt, inf do your best,
labour. 2 assault, attack, bombard-
endeavour, make an effort, strain,
ment. • vb 1 bang against, bang into,
struggle, try. > f ig h t .
beat, collide with, hammer, impel,
knock, rap, run into, smack, smash stroke n , 1 action, blow, effort,
into, inf thump, inf whack. > a t t a c k , knock, move, swipe. > h it . 2 a stroke
h it . 2 strike a match, ignite, light. of the pen. flourish, gesture, line,
3 tragedy struck us forcibly, affect, mark, movement, sweep. 3 [medical]
afflict, inf come home to, impress, apoplexy, attack, embolism, fit,
influence. 4 clock struck one. chime, seizure, spasm, thrombosis. • vb
ring, sound. 5 strike for more pay. inf caress, fondle, massage, pass your
come out, inf down tools, stop work, hand over, pat, pet, rub, soothe,
take industrial action, withdraw touch.
labour, work to rule. 6 strike a flag, stroll n, vb amble, meander, saunter,
tent, dismantle, lower, pull down, wander. > w a l k .
remove, take down. strong adj 1 durable, hard, hard-
striking adj affecting, amazing, wearing, heavy-duty, impregnable,
arresting, conspicuous, distinctive, indestructible, permanent, rein-
extraordinary, glaring, imposing, forced, resilient, robust, sound,
impressive, memorable, noticeable, stout, substantial, thick, unbreak-
415 studious
able, well-made. 2 strong physique. design, form, frame, give structure
athletic, inf beefy, inf brawny, burly, to, organize, shape, systematize.
fit, inf hale and hearty, hardy, inf struggle n 1 challenge, difficulty,
hefty, inf husky, mighty, muscular, effort, endeavour, exertion, labour,
powerful, robust, sinewy, stalwart, problem. 2 > f ig h t . • vb 1 endeavour,
inf strapping, sturdy, tough, well- exert yourself, labour, make an
built, wiry. 3 strong personality. effort, move violently, strain, strive,
assertive, committed, determined, toil, try, work hard, wrestle, wriggle
domineering, dynamic, energetic, about, writhe about. 2 struggle
forceful, independent, reliable, res- through mud. flail, flounder, stumble,
olute, stalwart, steadfast, inf stout, wallow. 3 t> FIGHT.
strong-minded, strong-willed, tena-
stub n butt, end, remains, remnant,
cious, vigorous. > s t u b b o r n . 4 strong
stump. • vb > h it .
commitment, active, assiduous, deep-
rooted, deep-seated, derog doctrin- stubble n 1 stalks, straw. 2 beard,
aire, derog dogmatic, eager, earnest, bristles, inf five-o’clock shadow, hair,
enthusiastic, fervent, fierce, firm, roughness.
genuine, intense, keen, loyal, pas- stubbly adj bristly, prickly, rough,
sionate, positive, rabid, sedulous, unshaven.
staunch, true, vehement, zealous. stubborn adj defiant, determined,
5 strong government, decisive, depend- difficult, disobedient, dogged, dog-
able, derog dictatorial, fearless, derog matic, headstrong, inflexible,
tyrannical, unswerving, unwavering. intractable, intransigent, mulish,
6 strong measures, aggressive, dracon- obdurate, obstinate, opinionated,
ian, drastic, extreme, harsh, high- persistent, pertinacious, inf pig-
handed, ruthless, severe, tough, headed, recalcitrant, refractory, rigid,
unflinching, violent. 7 a strong army. self-willed, tenacious, uncomprom-
formidable, invincible, large, numer- ising, uncontrollable, uncooperative,
ous, powerful, unconquerable, well- unmanageable, unreasonable, un-
armed, well-equipped, well-trained. yielding, wayward, wilful. Opp
8 strong colour, light, bright, brilliant, AMENABLE.
clear, dazzling, garish, glaring, vivid. stuck adj 1 bogged down, cemented,
9 strong taste, smell, concentrated, fast, fastened, firm, fixed, glued,
highly-flavoured, hot, intense, notice- immovable. 2 stuck on a problem.
able, obvious, overpowering, prom- baffled, beaten, held up, inf
inent, pronounced, pungent, sharp, stumped, inf stymied.
spicy, unmistakable. 10 strong evi-
dence. clear-cut, cogent, compelling, stuck-up adj arrogant, inf big-
convincing, evident, influential, per- headed, bumptious, inf cocky, con-
suasive, plain, solid, telling, undis- ceited, condescending, inf high-
puted. 11 strong drink, alcoholic, and-mighty, patronizing, proud, self-
concentrated, intoxicating, potent, important, snobbish, inf snooty,
undiluted. Opp w e a k . supercilious, inf toffee-nosed. Opp
MODEST.
stronghold n bastion, bulwark,
castle, citadel, old use fastness, fort, student n apprentice, disciple,
fortification, fortress, garrison. learner, postgraduate, pupil, scholar,
schoolchild, trainee, undergraduate,
structure n 1 arrangement, com-
position, configuration, constitu- studied adj calculated, conscious,
tion, design, form, formation, inf contrived, deliberate, intentional,
make-up, order, organization, plan, planned, premeditated.
shape, system. 2 complex, construc- studious adj academic, assiduous,
tion, edifice, erection, fabric, frame- attentive, bookish, brainy, earnest,
work, pile, superstructure. c> b u il d in g . hard-working, intellectual, Scholarly,
• vb arrange, build, construct, serious-minded, thoughtful.
study 416

study vb 1 analyse, consider, con- stupefy, stunning > b e a u t if u l , s t u -

template, enquire into, examine, pe n d o u s .
give attention to, investigate, learn stunt n inf dare, exploit, feat, trick. •
about, look closely at, peruse, vb stunt growth. > c h e c k .
ponder, pore over, read carefully,
research, scrutinize, survey, think stupendous adj amazing, colossal,
about, weigh. 2 study for exams, inf enormous, exceptional, extraord-
cram, learn, inf mug up, read, inf inary, huge, incredible, marvellous,
swot, work. miraculous, notable, phenomenal,
prodigious, remarkable, inf sensa-
stuff n 1 ingredients, matter, sub-
tional, singular, special, staggering,
stance. 2 fabric, material, textile. >
stunning, tremendous, unbelievable,
c l o t h . 3 all sorts of stuff, accoutre-
wonderful. Opp o r d in a r y .
ments, articles, belongings, inf bits
and pieces, inf clobber, effects, inf stupid adj [Most synonyms derog]
gear, impedimenta, junk, objects, 1 addled, bird-brained, bone-headed,
inf paraphernalia, possessions, inf bovine, brainless, clueless, cretinous,
tackle, things. • vb 1 compress, cram, dense, dim, doltish, dopey, drippy,
crowd, force, jam, pack, press, push, dull, dumb, empty-headed, feather-
ram, shove, squeeze, stow, thrust, brained, feeble-minded, foolish,
tuck. 2 stuff a cushion, fill, line, pad. gormless, half-witted, idiotic, ignor-
stuff yourself > e a t . ant, imbecilic, imperceptive, inedu-
cable, lacking, lumpish, mindless,
stuffing n 1 filling, lining, padding,
moronic, naive, obtuse, puerile,
quilting, wadding. 2 stuffing in
senseless, silly, simple, simple-
poultry, forcemeat, seasoning.
minded, slow, slow in the uptake,
stuffy adj 1 airless, close, fetid, fuggy, slowwitted, subnormal, thick, thick-
fusty, heavy, humid, muggy, musty, headed, thick-skulled, thickwitted,
oppressive, stale, steamy, stifling, unintelligent, unthinking, unwise,
suffocating, sultry, unventilated, vacuous, weak in the head, witless.
warm. Opp a ir y . 2 [inf] a stuffy old bore. 2 a stupid thing to do. absurd, asinine,
boring, conventional, dreary, dull, barmy, crack-brained, crass, crazy,
formal, humourless, narrow-minded, fatuous, feeble, futile, half-baked,
old-fashioned, pompous, prim, staid, hare-brained, ill-advised, inane, irra-
inf stodgy, strait-laced. Opp l iv e l y . tional, irrelevant, irresponsible,
stumble vb 1 blunder, flounder,
laughable, ludicrous, lunatic, mad,
lurch, miss your footing, reel, slip, nonsensical, pointless, rash, reckless,
stagger, totter, trip, tumble. > w a l k . ridiculous, risible, scatterbrained,
2 stumble in speech, become tongue-
thoughtless, unjustifiable. 3 stupid
tied, falter, hesitate, pause, stammer, after a knock on the head, dazed, in a
stutter. stupor, semi-conscious, sluggish,
stunned, stupefied. Opp in t e l l ig e n t .
stumbling-block n bar, difficulty, stupid person > f o o l .
hindrance, hurdle, impediment,
obstacle, snag. stupidity n absurdity, crassness,
denseness, dullness, inf dumbness,
stump vb baffle, bewilder, inf catch fatuity, fatuousness, folly, foolish-
out, confound, confuse, defeat, inf ness, futility, idiocy, ignorance, imbe-
flummox, mystify, outwit, perplex, cility, inanity, lack of intelligence,
puzzle, inf stymie, stump up > pa y . lunacy, madness, mindlessness,
stun vb 1 daze, knock out, knock naivety, pointlessness, recklessness,
senseless, make unconscious. silliness, slowness, thoughtlessness.
2 amaze, astonish, astound, bewil- Opp INTELLIGENCE.
der, confound, confuse, dumbfound, stupor n coma, daze, inertia, lassi-
flabbergast, numb, shock, stagger, tude, lethargy, numbness, shock,
417 submerge
state of insensibility, torpor, trance, Hable, prone, susceptible, vulnerable.
unconsciousness. Opp f r e e . • n 1 citizen, dependant,
sturdy adj 1 athletic, brawny, burly, national, passport-holder, taxpayer,
hardy, healthy, hefty, husky, mus- voter. 2 subject for discussion, affair,
cular, powerful, robust, stalwart, business, issue, matter, point, pro-
stocky, inf strapping, vigorous, well- position, question, theme, thesis,
built. 2 sturdy shoes, etc. durable, solid, topic. 3 subject of study, area, branch
sound, substantial, tough, well-made. of knowledge, course, discipline,
3 sturdy opposition, determined, firm, field. □ anatomy, archaeology, architec-
indomitable, resolute, staunch, ture, art, astronomy, biology, business,
steadfast, uncompromising, vigor- chemistry, computing, craft, design,
ous. > STRONG. Opp WEAK. divinity, domestic science, drama, eco-
nomics, education, electronics, engineer-
stutter vb stammer, stumble. > t a l k .
ing, English, environmental science, eth-
style n 1 dash, elegance, flair, flam- nology, etymology, geography, geology,
boyance, panache, polish, refine- heraldry, history, languages, Latin, law,
ment, smartness, sophistication, linguistics, literature, mathematics,
stylishness, taste. 2 not my style. mechanics, medicine, metallurgy, meta-
approach, character, custom, habit, physics, meteorology, music, natural
idiosyncrasy, manner, method, way. history, oceanography, ornithology,
3 style in writing, diction, mode, penology, pharmacology, pharmacy,
phraseology, phrasing, register, sen- philology, philosophy, photography,
tence structure, tenor, tone, word- physics, physiology, politics, psychology,
ing. 4 style in clothes, chic, cut, design, religious studies, science, scripture, social
dress-sense, fashion, look, mode, pat- work, sociology, sport, surveying, tech-
tern, shape, tailoring, type, vogue. nology, theology, topology, zoology. • vb
stylish adj Fr a la mode, chic, inf 1 subject a thing to scrutiny, expose, lay
classy, contemporary, inf dapper, el- open, submit. 2 > s u b ju g a t e .
egant, fashionable, modern, modish, subjective adj biased, emotional,
inf natty, inf posh, smart, inf snazzy, inf gut (reaction), idiosyncratic, indi-
sophisticated, inf trendy, up-to-date. vidual, instinctive, intuitive, per-
Opp OLD-FASHIONED. sonal, prejudiced, self-centred. Opp
subconscious adj deep-rooted, OBJECTIVE.
hidden, inner, intuitive, latent, re- subjugate vb beat, conquer, control,
pressed, subliminal, suppressed, crush, defeat, dominate, enslave,
unacknowledged, unconscious. Opp enthral, inf get the better of, master,
CONSCIOUS. oppress, overcome, overpower, over-
subdue vb check, curb, hold back, run, put down, quash, quell, subdue,
keep under, moderate, quieten, subject, tame, triumph over, van-
repress, restrain, suppress, temper. quish.
> SUBJUGATE. sublimate vb channel, convert,
subdued adj 1 chastened, crest- divert, idealize, purify, redirect,
fallen, depressed, downcast, grave, refine.
reflective, repressed, restrained, seri- sublime adj ecstatic, elated, elevated,
ous, silent, sober, solemn, thought- exalted, great, heavenly, high, high-
ful. > s a d . Opp e x c it e d . 2 subdued minded, lofty, noble, spiritual, tran-
music, calm, hushed, low, mellow, scendent. Opp BASE.
muted, peaceful, placid, quiet, soft, submerge vb 1 cover with water,
soothing, toned down, tranquil, dip, drench, drown, inf dunk, engulf,
unobtrusive. flood, immerse, inundate, over-
subject adj 1 captive, dependent, whelm, soak, swamp. 2 dive, go
enslaved, oppressed, ruled, subjug- down, go under, plummet, sink, sub-
ated. 2 subject to interference, exposed, side.
submission 418

submission n 1 acquiescence, capit- subside vb 1 abate, calm down,

ulation, compliance, giving in, sur- decline, decrease, die down, dimin-
render, yielding. t> s u b mis s iv e n e s s . ish, dwindle, ebb, fall, go down,
2 contribution, entry, offering, pre- lessen, melt away, moderate,
sentation, tender. 3 a legal submission. quieten, recede, shrink, slacken,
argument, claim, contention, idea, wear off. 2 subside into a chair, col-
proposal, suggestion, theory. lapse, descend, lower yourself, settle,
submissive adj accommodating, sink. Opp r is e .
acquiescent, amenable, biddable, subsidiary adj additional, ancillary,
derog boot-licking, compliant, defer- auxiliary, complementary, contrib-
ential, docile, humble, meek, obedi- utory, inferior, lesser, minor, sec-
ent, obsequious, passive, pliant, ondary, subordinate, supporting.
resigned, servile, slavish, supine, subsidize vb aid, back, finance,
sycophantic, tame, tractable, un- fund, give subsidy to, maintain, pro-
assertive, uncomplaining, unresist- mote, sponsor, support, underwrite,
ing, weak, yielding. Opp a s s e r t iv e .
subsidy n aid, backing, financial
submissiveness n acquiescence, help, funding, grant, maintenance,
assent^ compliance, deference, docil- sponsorship, subvention, support.
ity, humility, meekness, obedience,
obsequiousness, passivity, resigna- substance n 1 actuality, body, con-
tion, servility, submission, sub- creteness, corporeality, reality, solid-
servience, tameness. ity. 2 chemical, fabric, make-up,
material, matter, stuff. 3 substance of
submit vb 1 accede, bow, capitulate, an argument, core, essence, gist,
concede, give in, inf knuckle under, import, meaning, significance, sub-
succumb, surrender, yield. 2 submit a ject-matter, theme. 4 [old use] a person
proposal, advance, enter, give in, hand of substance. > w e a l t h .
in, offer, present, proffer, propose,
propound, put forward, state, sug- substandard adj inf below par, dis-
gest. submit to > a c c e pt , o b e y . appointing, inadequate, inferior,
poor, shoddy, unworthy.
subordinate adj inferior, junior,
lesser, lower, menial, minor, sec- substantial adj 1 durable, hefty,
ondary, subservient, subsidiary. • n massive, solid, sound, stout, strong,
aide, assistant, dependant, employee, sturdy, well-built, well-made. 2 big,
inferior, junior, menial, inf under- consequential, considerable, gener-
ling. > SERVANT. ous, great, large, significant, sizeable,
worthwhile. Opp f l ims y , s ma l l .
subscribe vb subscribe to 1 con-
tribute to, covenant to, donate to, substitute adj 1 acting, deputy,
give to, patronize, sponsor, support. relief, reserve, stand-by, surrogate,
2 subscribe to a magazine, be a sub- temporary. 2 alternative, ersatz, im-
scriber to, buy regularly, pay a sub- itation. • n alternative, deputy,
scription to. 3 subscribe to a theory, locum, proxy, relief, replacement,
advocate, agree with, approve of, inf reserve, stand-in, stopgap, substitu-
back, believe in, condone, consent tion, supply, surrogate, understudy.
to, endorse, inf give your blessing to. • vb 1 change, exchange, inter-
change, replace, inf swop, inf switch.
subscriber n patron, regular cus- 2 substitute for an absentee, act as a
tomer, sponsor, supporter. substitute, cover, deputize, double,
subscription n due, fee, payment, stand in, supplant, take the place of,
regular contribution, remittance. take over the role of, understudy.
subsequent adj coming, con- subtle adj 1 delicate, elusive, faint,
sequent, ensuing, following, future, fine, gentle, mild, slight, unobtrus-
later, next, resultant, resulting, suc- ive. 2 subtle argument, arcane, clever,
ceeding, successive. Opp pr e v io u s . indirect, ingenious, mysterious,
 419 sugar
recondite, refined, shrewd, sophist- successor n heir, inheritor, replace-
icated, tactful, understated. t> c u n - ment.
n in g . Opp OBVIOUS.
succinct adj brief, compact, concise,
subtract vb debit, deduct, remove, condensed, epigrammatic, pithy,
take away, take off. Opp a d d . short, terse, to the point. Opp w o r d y .
suburban adj outer, outlying, resi- succulent adj fleshy, juicy, luscious,
dential. moist, mouthwatering, palatable,
suburbs n fringes, outer areas, out- rich.
skirts, residential areas, suburbia. succumb vb accede, be overcome,
subversive adj challenging, dis- capitulate, give in, give up, give way,
ruptive, insurrectionary, question- submit, surrender, yield. Opp s u r v iv e .
ing, radical, seditious, traitorous, suck vb suck up absorb, draw up,
treacherous, treasonous, under- pull up, soak up. suck up to > f l a t -
mining, unsettling. t> r e v o l u t io n a r y . t er .
Opp c o n s e r v a t iv e , o r t h o d o x .
sudden adj 1 abrupt, brisk, hasty,
subvert vb challenge, corrupt, hurried, impetuous, impulsive, pre-
destroy, disrupt, overthrow, over- cipitate, quick, rash, inf snap, swift,
turn, pervert, ruin, undermine, unconsidered, unplanned, unpre-
upset, wreck. meditated. Opp s l o w . 2 a sudden shock.
subway n tunnel, underpass. acute, sharp, startling, surprising,
succeed vb 1 accomplish your unannounced, unexpected, unfore-
objective, inf arrive, be a success, do seeable, unforeseen, unlooked-for.
well, flourish, inf get on, infget to the Opp pr e d ic t a b l e .
top, inf make it, prosper, thrive. 2 be suds n bubbles, foam, froth, lather,
effective, inf catch on, produce soapsuds.
results, work. 3 be successor to, sue vb 1 indict, institute legal pro-
come after, follow, inherit from, ceedings against, proceed against,
replace, take over from. Opp f a il , suc- prosecute, summons, take legal
ceeding £> SUBSEQUENT. action against. 2 sue for peace. £>
success n 1 fame, good fortune, ENTREAT.
prosperity, wealth. 2 success of a plan. suffer vb 1 bear, cope with, endure,
accomplishment, achievement, at- experience, feel, go through, live
tainment, completion, effectiveness, through, inf put up with, stand, tol-
successful outcome. 3 a great success, erate, undergo, withstand. 2 suffer
inf hit, inf sensation, triumph, vic- from a wound, ache, agonize, feel
tory, inf winner. Opp f a il u r e . pain, hurt, smart. 3 suffer for a crime.
successful adj 1 booming, effect- atone, be punished, make amends,
ive, effectual, flourishing, fruitful, pay-
lucrative, money-making, productive, suffice vb answer, be sufficient, inf
profitable, profit-making, prosper- do, satisfy, serve.
ous, rewarding, thriving, useful, well-
off. 2 best-selling, celebrated, famed, sufficient adj adequate, enough, sat-
famous, high-earning, leading, pop- isfactory. Opp INSUFFICIENT.
ular, top, unbeaten, victorious, well- suffocate vb asphyxiate, choke,
known, winning. Opp u n s u c c e s s f u l . smother, stifle, stop breathing,
succession n chain, flow, line, pro- strangle, throttle.
cession, progression, run, sequence, sugar n a brown sugar, cane sugar,
series, string. caster sugar, demerara, glucose, granu-
successive adj consecutive, con- lated sugar, icing sugar, lump sugar,
tinuous, in succession, succeeding, molasses, sucrose, sweets, syrup, treacle.
unbroken, uninterrupted. • vb sweeten.
sugary 420

sugary adj 1 glazed, iced, sugared, stuffy, warm. Opp c o l d . 2 sultry beauty’.
sweetened. > s w e e t . 2 sugary senti- erotic, mysterious, passionate, pro-
ments. cloying, honeyed, sickly. > s e n - vocative, seductive, sensual, sexy,
t ime n t a l . voluptuous.
suggest vb 1 advise, advocate, coun- sum n aggregate, amount, number,
sel, moot, move, propose, propound, quantity, reckoning, result, score,
put forward, raise, recommend, urge. tally, total, whole. • vb sum up >
2 call to mind, communicate, hint, SUMMARIZE.
imply, indicate, insinuate, intimate, summarize vb abridge, condense,
make you think (of), mean, signal. digest, encapsulate, give the gist,
suggestion n 1 advice, counsel, make a summary, outline, precis, inf
offer, plan, prompting, proposal, re- recap, recapitulate, reduce, review,
commendation, urging. 2 breath, shorten, simplify, sum up. Opp e l a b -
hint, idea, indication, intimation, o r a t e.
notion, suspicion, touch, trace. summary n abridgement, abstract,
suggestive adj 1 evocative, ex- condensation, digest, epitome, gist,
pressive, indicative, reminiscent, outline, precis, recapitulation, reduc-
thought-provoking. 2 > in d e c e n t . tion, resume, review, summation,
suicidal adj 1 hopeless, inf summing-up, synopsis.
kamikaze, self-destructive. 2 > d e s - summery adj bright, sunny, tropical,
ol a t e. warm. > h o t . Opp w in t r y .
suit n outfit. > c l o t h e s . • vb 1 accom- summit n 1 apex, crown, head,
modate, be suitable for, conform to, height, peak, pinnacle, point, top.
fill your needs, fit in with, gratify, Opp b a s e . 2 summit of success, acme,
harmonize with, match, please, sat- apogee, climax, culmination, high
isfy, tally with. Opp d is pl e a s e . 2 That point, zenith. Opp n a d ir .
colour suits you. become, fit, look good summon vb 1 command, demand,
on. invite, order, send for, subpoena.
suitable adj acceptable, applicable, 2 assemble, call, convene, convoke,
apposite, appropriate, apt, becom- gather together, muster, rally.
ing, befitting, congenial, convenient, sunbathe vb bake, bask, inf get a
correct, decent, decorous, fit, fitting, tan, sun yourself, tan.
handy, old use meet, opportune, per- sunburnt adj blistered, bronzed,
tinent, proper, relevant, right, satis- brown, peeling, tanned, weather-
factoiy, seemly, tasteful, timely, beaten.
well-chosen, well-judged, well-timed.
Opp UNSUITABLE. sundry adj assorted, different, old use
divers, miscellaneous, mixed, vari-
sulk vb be sullen, brood, mope, pout, ous.
sullen adj 1 antisocial, bad-tem- sunken adj 1 submerged, under-
pered, brooding, churlish, crabby, water, wrecked. 2 sunken cheeks, con-
cross, disgruntled, dour, glum, grim, cave, depressed, drawn, hollow,
grudging, ill-humoured, lugubrious, hollowed.
moody, morose, inf out of sorts, pet-
sunless adj cheerless, cloudy, dark,
ulant, pouting, resentful, silent,
sour, stubborn, sulking, sulky, surly, dismal, dreary, dull, gloomy, grey,
uncommunicative, unforgiving, un- overcast, sombre. Opp s u n n y .
friendly, unhappy, unsociable. > s a d . sunlight n daylight, sun, sunbeams,
2 a sullen sky. cheerless, dark, dismal, sunshine.
dull, gloomy, grey, leaden, sombre. sunny adj 1 bright, clear, cloudless,
Opp CHEERFUL. fair, fine, summery, sunlit, sunshiny,
sultry adj 1 close, hot, humid, inf unclouded. Opp s u n l e s s . 2 > c h e e r f u l .
muggy, oppressive, steamy, stifling, sunrise n dawn, daybreak.
 421
supple
sunset n dusk, evening, gloaming, dainful, elitist, haughty, inf high-
nightfall, sundown, twilight. and-mighty, lofty, paternalistic,
sunshade n awning, canopy, para- patronizing, self-important, smug,
sol. snobbish, inf snooty, stuck-up, super-
superannuated adj 1 discharged, cilious. Opp INFERIOR.
inf pensioned off, inf put out to grass, superlative adj best, choicest, con-
old, retired. 2 discarded, disused, summate, excellent, finest, first-rate,
obsolete, thrown out, worn out. > incomparable, matchless, peerless,
OLD. inf tip-top, inf top-notch, unrivalled,
superannuation n annuity, pen- unsurpassed. > s u pr e me .
sion. supernatural adj abnormal,
superb adj admirable, excellent, fine, ghostly, inexplicable, magical, meta-
first-class, first-rate, grand, impress- physical, miraculous, mysterious,
ive, marvellous, superior. > s pl e n d id . mystic, occult, other-worldly, para-
Opp INFERIOR. normal, preternatural, psychic, spir-
itual, uncanny, unearthly, unnatural,
superficial adj 1 cosmetic, external,
weird.
exterior, on the surface, outward,
shallow, skin-deep, slight, surface, superstition n delusion, illusion,
unimportant. 2 careless, casual, cur- myth, inf old wives’ tale, supersti-
sory, desultory, facile, frivolous, tious belief.
hasty, hurried, inattentive, light- superstitious adj credulous,
weight, inf nodding (acquaintance), groundless, illusoiy, irrational, myth-
oversimplified, passing, perfunctory, ical, traditional, unfounded, unprov-
simple-minded, simplistic, sweeping able.
(generalization), trivial, unconvincing,
supervise vb administer, be in
uncritical, undiscriminating, unques-
charge of, be the supervisor of, con-
tioning, unscholarly, unsophistic-
duct, control, direct, govern, invigi-
ated. Opp ANALYTICAL, DEEP.
late (an exam), inf keep an eye on,
superfluous adj excess, excessive, lead, look after, manage, organize,
extra, needless, redundant, spare, oversee, preside over, run, superin-
superabundant, surplus, unneces- tend, watch over.
sary, unneeded, unwanted. Opp n e -
c essa r y .
supervision n administration, con-
duct, control, direction, government,
superhuman adj 1 god-like, her- invigilation, management, organiza-
culean, heroic, phenomenal, prodi- tion, oversight, running, surveil-
gious. 2 superhuman powers, divine, lance.
higher, metaphysical, supernatural.
supervisor n administrator, chief,
superimpose vb overlay, place on
controller, director, executive, fore-
top of. man, inf gaffer, head, inspector,
superintend vb administer, be in invigilator, leader, manager, or-
charge of, be the supervisor of, con- ganizer, overseer, superintendent,
duct, control, direct, look after, man- timekeeper.
age, organize, oversee, preside over,
supine adj 1 face upwards, flat on
run, supervise, watch over.
your back, prostrate, recumbent. Opp
superior adj 1 better, inf classier, PRONE. 2 > PASSIVE.
greater, higher, higher-bom, loftier,
supplant vb displace, dispossess,
more important, more impressive,
nobler, senior, inf up-market. 2 su- eject, expel, oust, replace, inf step
perior quality, choice, exclusive, fine, into the shoes of, supersede, inf
first-class, first-rate, select, top, unri- topple, unseat.
valled. 3 superior attitude, arrogant, supple adj bending, inf bendy,
condescending, contemptuous, dis- elastic, flexible, flexile, graceful,
supplement 422

limber, lithe, plastic, pliable, pliant, speak up for, stand by, stand up for,
resilient, soft. Opp r ig id . stay with, inf stick up for, inf stick
supplement n 1 additional pay- with, take someone’s part. 3 support
ment, excess, surcharge. 2 a news- a family, bring up, feed, finance, fund,
paper supplement, etc. addendum, keep, look after, maintain, nourish,
addition, annexe, appendix, codicil, provide for, sustain. 4 support a char-
continuation, endpiece, extra, insert, ity. be a supporter of, be interested
postscript, sequel. • vb add to, aug- in, contribute to, espouse (a cause),
ment, boost, complement, extend, follow, give to, patronize, pay money
reinforce, inf top up. to, sponsor, subsidize, work for.
5 support a point of view, accept,
supplementary adj accompanying,
adhere to, advocate, agree with,
added, additional, ancillary, auxili- allow, approve, argue for, confirm,
ary, complementary, excess, extra, corroborate, defend, endorse,
new, supportive. explain, justify, promote, ratify, sub-
supplication n appeal, entreaty, stantiate, uphold, validate, verify.
petition, plea, prayer, request, soli- Opp s u b v e r t , w e a k e n , support your-
citation. self lean, rest.
supplier n dealer, provider, pur- supporter n 1 adherent, admirer,
veyor, -retailer, seller, shopkeeper, advocate, aficionado, apologist,
vendor, wholesaler. champion, defender, devotee, en-
supply n 1 cache, hoard, quantity, thusiast, inf fan, fanatic, follower,
reserve, reservoir, stock, stockpile, seconder, upholder, voter. 2 ally,
store. 2 equipment, food, necessities, assistant, collaborator, helper, hench-
provisions, rations, shopping. 3 a man, second.
regular supply, delivery, distribution, supportive adj caring, concerned,
provision, provisioning. • vb cater encouraging, favourable, heartening,
to, contribute, deliver, distribute, helpful, interested, kind, loyal,
donate, endow, equip, feed, furnish, positive, reassuring, sustaining, sym-
give, hand over, pass on, produce, pathetic, understanding. Opp s u b -
provide, purvey, sell, stock. v e r s iv e .
support n 1 aid, approval, assistance,
suppose vb 1 accept, assume,
backing, back-up, bolstering, con- believe, conclude, conjecture, expect,
tribution, cooperation, donation, guess, infer, judge, postulate, pre-
encouragement, fortifying, friend- sume, presuppose, speculate, sur-
ship, help, interest, loyalty, patron- mise, suspect, take for granted,
age, protection, reassurance, re- think. 2 daydream, fancy, fantasize,
inforcement, sponsorship, succour. hypothesize, imagine, maintain, pos-
2 brace, bracket, buttress, crutch, tulate, pretend, theorize, supposed
foundation, frame, pillar, post, prop, > h y po t h e t ic a l , pu t a t iv e , supposed to
sling, stanchion, stay, strut, sub- due to, expected to, having a duty
structure, trestle, truss, underpin- to, meant to, required to.
ning. 3 financial support, expenses,
funding, keep, maintenance, sub- supposition n assumption, belief,
sistence, upkeep. • vb 1 bear, bol- conjecture, fancy, guess, inf guess-
ster, buoy up, buttress, carry, give timate, hypothesis, inference, no-
strength to, hold up, keep up, prop tion, opinion, presumption, specu-
up, provide a support for, reinforce, lation, surmise, theoiy, thought.
shore up, strengthen, underlie, suppress vb 1 conquer, inf crack
underpin. 2 support someone in trouble. down on, crush, end, finish off, halt,
aid, assist, back, be faithful to, cham- overcome, overthrow, put an end to,
pion, comfort, defend, encourage, put down, quash, quell, stamp out,
favour, fight for, give support to, stop, subdue. 2 suppress emotion.
help, rally round, reassure, side with, bottle up, censor, choke back, con-
423 surprised
ceal, cover up, hide, hush up, keep flow, gush, heave, make waves, move
quiet about, keep secret, muffle, irresistibly, push, roll, rush, stam-
mute, obstruct, prohibit, repress, pede, stream, sweep, swirl, well up.
restrain, silence, smother, stamp
surgery n 1 biopsy, operation. 2 a
on, stifle, strangle.
doctor’s surgery, clinic, consulting
supremacy n ascendancy, dom- room, health centre, infirmary, med-
inance, domination, dominion, ical centre, sick-bay.
lead, mastery, predominance, pre-
surly adj bad-tempered, boorish, can-
eminence, sovereignty, superiority.
tankerous, churlish, crabby, cross,
supreme adj best, choicest, con- crotchety, in/crusty, curmudgeonly,
summate, crowning, culminating, dyspeptic, gruff, inf grumpy, ill-
excellent, finest, first-rate, greatest, natured, illtempered, irascible, mis-
highest, incomparable, matchless, erable, morose, peevish, rough, rude,
outstanding, paramount, peerless, sulky, sullen, testy, touchy, uncivil,
predominant, pre-eminent, prime, unfriendly, ungracious, unpleasant.
principal, superlative, surpassing, inf Opp FRIENDLY.
tip-top, top, inf top-notch, ultimate,
unbeatable, unbeaten, unparalleled, surmise vb assume, believe, conjec-
unrivalled, unsurpassable, unsur- ture, expect, fancy, gather, guess,
passed. hypothesize, imagine, infer, judge,
postulate, presume, presuppose,
sure adj 1 assured, certain, confid- sense, speculate, suppose, suspect,
ent, convinced, decided, definite, per- take for granted, think.
suaded, positive. 2 sure to come.
bound, certain, compelled, obliged, surpass vb beat, better, do better
required. 3 a sure fact, accurate, clear, than, eclipse, exceed, excel, go
convincing, guaranteed, indis- beyond, leave behind, in/leave stand-
putable, inescapable, inevitable, ing, outclass, outdistance, outdo,
infallible, proven, reliable, true, outperform, outshine, outstrip, over-
unchallenged, undeniable, undis- shadow, top, transcend, worst.
puted, undoubted, verifiable. 4 a sure surplus n balance, excess, extra,
ally, dependable, effective, estab- glut, oversupply, remainder, residue,
lished, faithful, firm, infallible, loyal, superfluity, surfeit.
reliable, resolute, safe, secure, solid, surprise n 1 alarm, amazement,
steadfast, steady, trustworthy, trusty, astonishment, consternation, dis-
undeviating, unerring, unfailing, may, incredulity, stupefaction, won-
unfaltering, unflinching, unswerv- der. 2 a complete surprise, blow, in/bolt
ing, unwavering. Opp u n c e r t a in . from the blue, in/bombshell, inf eye-
surface n 1 coat, coating, covering, opener, jolt, shock. • vb 1 alarm,
crust, exterior, facade, integument, amaze, astonish, astound, disconcert,
interface, outside, shell, skin, veneer. dismay, dumbfound, flabbergast,
2 cube has six surfaces, face, facet, nonplus, rock, shock, stagger, startle,
plane, side. 3 a working surface, bench, stun, stupefy, in/take aback, take by
table, top, worktop. • vb 1 appear, surprise, in/throw. 2 surprise someone
arise, in/come to light, come up, inf doing wrong, capture, catch out, inf
crop up, emerge, materialize, inf pop catch red-handed, come upon, detect,
up, rise. 2 coat, cover, laminate, discover, take unawares.
veneer. surprised adj alarmed, amazed,
surfeit n excess, flood, glut, over- astonished, astounded, disconcerted,
abundance, overindulgence, over- dismayed, dumbfounded, flabber-
supply, plethora, superfluity, surplus, gasted, incredulous, inf knocked
surge n burst, gush, increase, for six, nonplussed, inf shattered,
onrush, onset, outpouring, rush, shocked, speechless, staggered,
upsurge. > w a v e . • vb billow, eddy, startled, struck dumb, stunned,
surprising 424

taken aback, taken by surprise, inf survive vb 1 inf bear up, carry on,
thrown, thunderstruck. continue, endure, keep going, last,
surprising adj alarming, amazing, live, persist, remain. 2 survive disaster.
astonishing, astounding, disconcert- come through, live through, outlast,
ing, extraordinary, frightening, in- outlive, pull through, weather, with-
credible, inf off-putting, shocking, stand. Opp SUCCUMB.
staggering, startling, stunning, susceptible adj affected (by), dis-
sudden, unexpected, unforeseen, posed, given, inclined, liable, open,
unlooked-for, unplanned, unpre- predisposed, prone, responsive,
dictable, upsetting. Opp pr e d ic t a b l e . sensitive, vulnerable. Opp r e s is t a n t .
surrender n capitulation, giving in, suspect adj doubtful, dubious, inad-
resignation, submission. • vb 1 acqui- equate, questionable, inf shady, sus-
esce, capitulate, inf cave in, collapse, pected, suspicious, unconvincing,
concede, fall, inf give in, give up, give unreliable, unsatisfactory, untrust-
way, give yourself up, resign, sub- worthy. • vb 1 call into question,
mit, succumb, inf throw in the towel, disbelieve, distrust, doubt, have
inf throw up the sponge, yield. 2 sur- suspicions about, mistrust. 2 suspect
render your ticket, deliver up, give up, that she’s lying, believe, conjecture,
hand over, part with, relinquish. consider, guess, imagine, infer, pre-
3 surrender your rights. abandon, cede, sume, speculate, suppose, surmise,
renounce, waive. think.
surreptitious adj clandestine, con- suspend vb 1 dangle, hang, swing.
cealed, covert, crafty, disguised, 2 suspend work, adjourn, break off,
furtive, hidden, private, secret, se- defer, delay, discontinue, freeze, hold
cretive, shifty, sly, inf sneaky, in abeyance, hold up, interrupt, post-
stealthy, underhand. Opp b l a t a n t . pone, put off, inf put on ice, shelve.
surround vb beset, besiege, cocoon, 3 suspend from duty, debar, dismiss,
cordon off, encircle, enclose, encom- exclude, expel, lay off, lock out, send
pass, engulf, environ, girdle, hedge down.
in, hem in, ring, skirt, trap, wrap.
suspense n anticipation, anxiety,
surrounding adj adjacent, adjoin- apprehension, doubt, drama, excite-
ing, bordering, local, nearby, neigh- ment, expectancy, expectation, in-
bouring. security, irresolution, nervousness,
surroundings plur n ambience, not knowing, tension, uncertainty,
area, background, context, environ- waiting.
ment, location, milieu, neighbour-
suspicion n 1 apprehension, appre-
hood, setting, vicinity.
hensiveness; caution, distrust, doubt,
surveillance n check, observation, dubiety, dubiousness, inf funny feel-
reconnaissance, scrutiny, supervi- ing, guess, hesitation, inf hunch,
sion, vigilance, watch. impression, misgiving, mistrust, pre-
survey n appraisal, assessment, cen- sentiment, qualm, scepticism, uncer-
sus, count, evaluation, examination, tainty, wariness. 2 suspicion of a smile.
inquiry, inspection, investigation, glimmer, hint, inkling, shadow, sug-
review, scrutiny, study, triangula- gestion, tinge, touch, trace.
tion. t vb 1 appraise, assess, es- suspicious adj 1 apprehensive, inf
timate, evaluate, examine, inspect, chary, disbelieving, distrustful,
investigate, look over, review, scru- doubtful, dubious, incredulous, in
tinize, study, view, weigh up. 2 do a doubt, mistrustful, sceptical, uncer-
survey of, map out, measure, plan tain, unconvinced, uneasy, wary. Opp
out, plot, reconnoitre, triangulate. t r u s t f u l . 2 suspicious character, disrep-
survival n continuance, continued utable, dubious, inf fishy, peculiar,
existence, persistence. questionable, inf shady, suspect, sus-
 425
swell
pected, unreliable, untrustworthy. take an oath, testify, vouchsafe, vow.
Opp TRUSTWORTHY. 2 blaspheme, curse, execrate, im-
sustain vb 1 continue, develop, precate, use swearwords, utter pro-
elongate, extend, keep alive, keep fanities.
going, keep up, maintain, prolong. swear-word n m/bad language, blas-
2 > SUPPORT. phemy, curse, execration, expletive,
sustenance n eatables, edibles, inf four-letter word, imprecation,
food, foodstuffs, nourishment, nutri- oath, obscenity, profanity, swearing.
ment, provender, provisions, rations, sweat vb 1 inf glow, perspire, swel-
old use victuals. ter. 2 > WORK.
swag n booty, loot, plunder, takings, sweaty adj clammy, damp, moist,
swagger vb parade, strut. > w a l k . perspiring, sticky, sweating.
swallow vb consume, inf down, gulp sweep vb brush, clean, clear, dust,
down, guzzle, ingest, take down. > tidy up. sweep along > mo v e , sweep
d r in k , e a t . swallow up absorb, assim- away > r e mo v e , sweeping > g e n e r a l ,
ilate, enclose, enfold, make disap- SUPERFICIAL.
pear. > SWAMP. sweet adj 1 aromatic, fragrant, hon-
swamp n bog, fen, marsh, marsh- eyed, luscious, mellow, perfumed,
land, morass, mud, mud-flats, quag- sweetened, sweetscented, sweet-
mire, quicksand, salt-marsh, old use smelling. 2 [derog] sickly sweet.
slough, wetlands. • vb deluge, cloying, saccharine, sentimental,
drench, engulf, envelop, flood, sickening, sickly, sugary, syrupy,
immerse, inundate, overcome, over- treacly. 3 sweet sounds, dulcet, eu-
whelm, sink, submerge, swallow up. phonious, harmonious, heavenly,
mellifluous, melodious, musical,
swampy adj boggy, marshy, muddy,
pleasant, silvery, soothing, tuneful.
soft, soggy, unstable, waterlogged,
4 a sweet nature, affectionate, ami-
wet. Opp DRY, FIRM.
able, attractive, charming, dear,
swarm n cloud, crowd, hive, horde, endearing, engaging, friendly, genial,
host, multitude. > g r o u p . • vb cluster, gentle, gracious, lovable, lovely, nice,
congregate, crowd, flock, gather, pretty, unselfish, winning. Opp a c id ,
mass, move in a swarm, throng, b it t e r , n a s t y , s a v o u r y . • n 1 inf afters,
swarm up > c l imb , swarm with > dessert, pudding. 2 [usu plur] old use
TEEM. bon-bons, Amer candy, confectionery,
swarthy adj brown, dark, dark- inf sweeties, old use sweetmeats.
complexioned, dark-skinned, dusky, □ acid drop, barley sugar, boiled sweet,
tanned. bull’s-eye, butterscotch, candy, candyfloss,
swashbuckling adj adventurous, caramel, chewing-gum, chocolate, fon-
aggressive, bold, daredevil, daring, dant, fruit pastille, fudge, humbug,
dashing, inf macho, manly, swagger- liquorice, lollipop, marshmallow, marzi-
pan, mint, nougat, peppermint, rock,
ing. Opp TIMID.
toffee, Turkish delight.
sway vb 1 bend, fluctuate, lean from
side to side, oscillate, rock, roll, sweeten vb 1 make sweeter, sugar.
2 sweeten your temper, appease,
swing, undulate, wave. 2 sway opin-
ions. affect, bias, bring round, change assuage, calm, mellow, mollify,
(someone’s mind), convert, convince, pacify, soothe.
govern, influence, persuade, win sweetener n □ artificial sweetener,
over. 3 sway from a chosen path, divert, honey, saccharine, sugar, sweetening,
go off course, swerve, veer, waver. syrup.
swear vb 1 affirm, asseverate, attest, swell vb 1 balloon, become bigger,
aver, avow, declare, give your word, belly, billow, blow up, bulge, dilate,
insist, pledge, promise, state on oath, distend, enlarge, expand, fatten, fill
swelling 426

out, grow, increase, inflate, mush- swing n change, fluctuation, move-

room, puff up, rise. 2 swell numbers. ment, oscillation, shift, variation.
augment, boost, build up, extend, • vb 1 be suspended, dangle, flap,
increase, make bigger, raise, step up. fluctuate, hang loose, move from
Opp SHRINK. side to side, move to and fro, oscil-
late, revolve, rock, roll, sway, swivel,
swelling n blister, boil, bulge, bump,
turn, twirl, wave about. 2 swing
distension, enlargement, excres-
opinion, affect, bias, bring round,
cence, hump, inflammation, knob,
change (someone’s mind), convert,
lump, node, nodule, prominence, convince, govern, influence, per-
protrusion, protuberance, tumes-
suade, win over. 3 support swung to
cence, tumour.
the opposition, change, move across,
sweltering adj humid, muggy, shift, transfer, vary. 4 swing from a
oppressive, steamy, sticky, stifling, path, deviate, divert, go off course,
sultry, torrid, tropical. > h o t . swerve, veer, waver, zigzag.
swerve vb career, change direction, swipe vb 1 lash out at, strike, swing
deviate, diverge, dodge about, sheer at. > HIT. 2 > STEAL.
off, swing, take avoiding action, turn
swirl vb boil, churn, circulate, curl,
aside, veer, wheel.
eddy, move in circles, seethe, spin,
swift adj agile, brisk, expeditious, surge, twirl, twist, whirl.
fast, old use fleet, fleet-footed, hasty,
switch n circuit-breaker, lightswitch,
hurried, nimble, inf nippy, prompt,
power-point. • vb change, divert,
quick, rapid, speedy, sudden. Opp
exchange, redirect, replace, reverse,
SLOW.
shift, substitute, inf swap, transfer,
swill vb 1 bathe, clean, rinse, sponge turn.
down, wash. 2 c> d r in k .
swivel vb gyrate, pirouette, pivot,
swim vb bathe, dive in, float, go revolve, rotate, spin, swing, turn,
swimming, inf take a dip. twirl, wheel.
swimming-bath n baths, leisure- swoop vb descend, dive, drop, fall, fly
pool, lido, swimming-pool. down, lunge, plunge, pounce, swoop
swim-suit n bathing-costume, on t> RAID.
bathing-dress, bathing-suit, bikini, sword n blade, broadsword, cutlass,
swimwear, trunks. dagger, foil, kris, rapier, sabre, scim-
swindle n cheat, chicanery, inf con, itar.
confidence trick, deception, double- sycophantic adj flattering, servile,
dealing, fraud, knavery, inf racket, inf smarmy, toadyish, unctuous.
inf rip-off, inf sharp practice, inf
swizz, trickery. • vb inf bamboozle, syllabus n course, curriculum, out-
cheat, inf con, cozen, deceive, line, programme of study.
defraud, inf diddle, inf do, double- symbol n mark, sign, token. □ badge,
cross, dupe, exploit, inf fiddle, inf brand, character, cipher, coat of arms,
fleece, fool, gull, hoax, hoodwink, crest, emblem, figure, hieroglyph,
mulct, inf pull a fast one on you, inf ideogram, ideograph, image, insignia,
rook, inf take you for a ride, trick, inf letter, logo, logotype, monogram, motif,
welsh (on a bet). number, numeral, pictogram, pictograph,
swindler n charlatan, cheat, cheater,
trademark.
inf con man, counterfeiter, double- symbolic adj allegorical, emblem-
crosser, extortioner, forger, fraud, atic, figurative, meaningful, meta-
hoaxer, impostor, knave, mounte- phorical, representative, signific-
bank, quack, racketeer, scoundrel, ant, suggestive, symptomatic, token
inf shark, trickster, inf twister. (gesture).
427 systematize
symbolize vb be a sign of, betoken, synthesis n amalgamation, blend,
communicate, connote, denote, epi- coalescence, combination, compos-
tomize, imply, indicate, mean, rep- ite, compound, fusion, integration,
resent, signify, stand for, suggest. union. Opp a n a l y s is .
symmetrical adj balanced, even, synthetic adj artificial, bogus, con-
proportional, regular. Opp a s y mme t - cocted, counterfeit, ersatz, fabric-
r ic a l . ated, fake, inf made-up, man-made,
sympathetic adj benevolent, car- manufactured, mock, inf phoney,
ing, charitable, comforting, commis- simulated, spurious, unnatural. Opp
erating, compassionate, concerned, GENUINE, NATURAL.
consoling, empathetic, friendly,
syringe n hypodermic, needle.
humane, interested, kind-hearted,
kindly, merciful, pitying, soft- system n 1 network, organization,
hearted, solicitous, sony, supportive, inf set-up, structure. 2 approach,
tender, tolerant, understanding, arrangement, logic, method,
warm. Opp u n s y mpa t h e t ic . methodology, Lat modus operandi,
sympathize vb inf be on the same order, plan, practice, procedure,
wavelength, be sorry, be sym- process, routine, rules, scheme, tech-
pathetic, comfort, commiserate, nique. 3 system of government, consti-
condole, console, empathize, feel, tution, regime. 4 system of knowledge.
grieve, have sympathy, identify categorization, classification, code,
(with), mourn, pity, respond, show discipline, philosophy, science, set of
sympathy, understand. principles, theoiy.
sympathy n affinity, commisera- systematic adj according to plan,
tion, compassion, concern, con- businesslike, categorized, classified,
dolence, consideration, empathy, codified, constitutional, coordinated,
feeling, fellow-feeling, kindness, logical, methodical, neat, ordered,
mercy, pity, rapport, solicitousness, orderly, organized, planned, ra-
tenderness, understanding. tional, regimented, routine, scien-
symptom n characteristic, evidence, tific, structured, tidy, well-arranged,
feature, indication, manifestation, well-organized, well-rehearsed, well-
mark, marker, sign, warning, warn- run. Opp UNSYSTEMATIC.
ing-sign. systematize vb arrange, catalogue,
symptomatic adj characteristic, categorize, classify, codify, make sys-
indicative, representative, suggestive, tematic, organize, rationalize, regi-
typical. ment, standardize, tabulate.
 T
table n 1 bench, board, counter, lenge, interception, intervention.
desk, gate-leg table, kitchen table, • vb 1 address (yourself to), apply
worktop. 2 table of information. yourself to, attempt, attend to, com-
agenda, catalogue, chart, diagram, bat, inf come to grips with, concen-
graph, index, inventoiy, list, regis- trate on, confront, cope with, deal
ter, schedule, tabulation, timetable. • with, engage in, face up to, focus on,
vb bring forward, lay on the table, get involved in, grapple with, handle,
offer, proffer, propose, submit. inf have a go at, manage, set about,
tablet n 1 capsule, drop, lozenge, settle down to, sort out, take on,
medicine, pastille, pellet, pill. 2 tablet undertake. 2 tackle an opponent.
of soap, bar, block, chunk, piece, slab. attack, challenge, intercept, stop,
3 tablet of stone, gravestone, head- take on.
stone, memorial, plaque, plate, tacky adj adhesive, gluey, inf gooey,
tombstone. gummy, sticky, viscous, wet. Opp d r y .
taboo adj banned, censored, disap- tact n adroitness, consideration,
proved of, forbidden, interdicted, delicacy, diplomacy, discernment,
prohibited, proscribed, unacceptable, discretion, finesse, judgement, per-
unlawful, unmentionable, unnam- ceptiveness, politeness, savoir-faire,
able. c> r u d e . • n anathema, ban, sensitivity, tactfulness, thoughtful-
curse, interdiction, prohibition, pro- ness, understanding. Opp t a c t l e s s n e s s .
scription, taboo subject. tactful adj adroit, appropriate, con-
tabulate vb arrange as a table, cata- siderate, courteous, delicate, diplo-
logue, index, list, pigeon-hole, set out matic, discreet, judicious, perceptive,
in columns, systematize. polite, politic, sensitive, thoughtful,
tacit adj implicit, implied, silent, understanding. Opp t a c t l e s s .
undeclared, understood, unex- tactical adj artful, calculated, clever,
pressed, unsaid, unspoken, unvoiced, deliberate, planned, politic, prudent,
taciturn adj mute, quiet, reserved, shrewd, skilful, strategic.
reticent, silent, tight-lipped, uncom- tactics plur n approach, campaign,
municative, unforthcoming. Opp t a l k - course of action, design, device,
a t iv e . manoeuvre, manoeuvring, plan,
tack n 1 drawing-pin, nail, pin, tin- ploy, policy, procedure, ruse, scheme,
tack. 2 the wrong tack, approach, bear- stratagem, strategy.
ing, course, direction, heading, line, tactless adj blundering, blunt, boor-
policy, procedure, technique. • vb ish, bungling, clumsy, discourteous,
1 nail, pin. > f a s t e n . 2 sew, stitch. gauche, heavyhanded, hurtful, im-
3 tack in a yacht, beat against the polite, impolitic, inappropriate, in-
wind, change course, go about, considerate, indelicate, indiscreet,
zigzag, tack on c> a d d . inept, insensitive, maladroit, mis-
tackle n 1 accoutrements, appar- judged, thoughtless, uncivil, un-
atus, inf clobber, equipment, fit- couth, undiplomatic, unkind. > r u d e .
tings, gear, implements, kit, outfit, Opp TACTFUL.
paraphernalia, rig, rigging, tools. 2 tactlessness n boorishness, clum-
a football tackle, attack, block, chal- siness, gaucherie, indelicacy, indis-
429
talk
cretion, ineptitude, insensitivity, PARnaPATE. take place t> h a ppe n , take
lack of diplomacy, misjudgement, to task t> REPRIMAND, take up t> BEGIN,
thoughtlessness, uncouthness. > OCCUPY.
RUDENESS. Opp TACT.
take-over n amalgamation, com-
tag n 1 docket, label, marker, name bination, incorporation, merger.
tag, price tag, slip, sticker, tab, ticket.
takings plurn earnings, gains, gate,
2 a Latin tag. t> s a y in g . • vb identify,
income, proceeds, profits, receipts,
label, mark, ticket, tag along with > revenue.
FOLLOW.
tale n account, anecdote, chronicle,
tail n appendage, back, brush (offox), narration, narrative, relation, report,
buttocks, end, extremity, rear, rump, si spi6l, story, yarn. t> w r it in g .
scut (of rabbit), tail-end. • vb dog, fol-
low, hunt, pursue, shadow, stalk, talent n ability, accomplishment,
track, trail, tail off t> d e c l in e . aptitude, brilliance, capacity, ex-
pertise, facility, faculty, flair,
taint vb 1 adulterate, contaminate, genius, gift, ingenuity, knack, inf
defile, dirty, infect, poison, pollute, know-how, prowess, skill, strength,
soil. 2 taint a reputation, besmirch, versatility.
blacken, blemish, damage, dishon-
our, harm, ruin, slander, smear, talented adj able, accomplished,
spoil, stain, sully, tarnish. artistic, brilliant, distinguished,
expert, gifted, inspired, proficient,
take vb 1 acquire, bring, carry away, skilful, skilled, versatile, o c l e v e r . Opp
inf cart off, catch, clasp, clutch, fetch, UNSKILFUL.
gain, get, grab, grasp, grip, hold, pick
up, pluck, remove, secure, seize, talisman n amulet, charm, fetish,
snatch, transfer. 2 take prisoners. mascot.
abduct, arrest, capture, catch, cor- talk n 1 baby-talk, in/blarney, chat,
ner, detain, ensnare, entrap, secure. inf chin-wag, inf chit-chat, confabu-
3 take property, appropriate, get away lation, conference, conversation, dia-
with, pocket. > s t e a l . 4 take 2 from 4. logue, discourse, discussion, gossip,
deduct, eliminate, subtract, take intercourse, language, palaver, inf
away. 5 take passengers, accommod- powwow, inf tattle, inf tittle-tattle,
ate, carry, contain, have room for, words. 2 a public talk, address, dia-
hold. 6 take a partner, accompany, tribe, exhortation, harangue, lecture,
conduct, convey, escort, ferry, guide, oration, inf peptalk, presentation,
lead, transport. 7 take a taxi, engage, sermon, speech, tirade. • vb
hire, make use of, travel by, use. 1 address one another, articulate
8 take a subject, have lessons in, learn ideas, commune, communicate, con-
about, read, study. 9 can’t take pain. fer, converse, deliver a speech, dis-
abide, accept, bear, brook, endure, course, discuss, enunciate, exchange
receive, inf stand, inf stomach, suf- views, have a conversation, in/hold
fer, tolerate, undergo, withstand. forth, lecture, negotiate, inf pipe
10 take food, drink, consume, drink, up, pontificate, prate, pronounce
eat, have, swallow. 111t takes courage words, say something, sermonize,
to own up. necessitate, need, require, speak, tell, use language, use your
use up. 12 take a new name, adopt, voice, utter, verbalize, vocalize.
assume, choose, select, take aback a babble, bawl, bellow, blab, blether,
> s u r pr is e , take after > r e s e mb l e . blurt out, breathe, buttle, call out, chat,
take against t> d is l ik e , take back t> chatter, clamour, croak, cry, drawl, drone,
w it h d r a w , take in > a c c o m m o d a t e , gabble, gas, gibber, gossip, grunt, harp,
DECEIVE, UNDERSTAND, take life t> KILL, howl, intone, jabber, jaw, jeer, lisp,
take off > IMITATE, take off, take out maunder, moan, mumble, murmur, mut-
> REMOVE, take on, take up > UNDER- ter, natter, patter, prattle, pray, preach,
TAKE. take over t> USURP, take part > rabbit on, rant, rasp, rattle on, rave, roar.
talkative 430

scream, screech, shout, shriek, slur, snap, tan n sunburn, suntan. • vb bronze,
snarl, speak in an undertone, splutter, brown, burn, colour, darken, get
spout, squeal, stammer, stutter, tattle, tanned.
vociferate, wail, whimper, whine, whinge, tang n acidity, inf bite, inf edge, inf
whisper, witter, yell. 2 talk French. nip, piquancy, pungency, savour,
communicate in, express yourself in, sharpness, spiciness, zest.
pronounce, speak. 3 get someone to
talk, confess, give information, inf tangible adj actual, concrete, cor-
grass, inform, inf let on, inf spill the poreal, definite, material, palpable,
beans, inf squeal, inf tell tales. t> s a t , perceptible, physical, positive, prov-
s pe a k , talk about t> d is c u s s , talk to t> able, real, solid, substantial, tactile,
ADDRESS. touchable. Opp in t a n g ib l e .
tangle n coil, complication, confu-
talkative adj articulate, inf chatty,
sion, jumble, jungle, knot, labyrinth,
communicative, effusive, eloquent,
mass, maze, mesh, mess, muddle,
expansive, garrulous, glib, gossipy,
scramble, twist, web. • vb 1 com-
long-winded, loquacious, open, pro-
plicate, confuse, entangle, entwine,
lix, unstoppable, verbose, vocal, vol- inf foul up, intertwine, interweave,
uble, wordy. Opp t a c it u r n , talkative muddle, ravel, scramble, inf snarl up,
person chatter-box, si gas-bag, gos-
twist. 2 tangle fish in a net. catch,
sip, si wind-bag. enmesh, ensnare, entrap, trap. Opp
tall adj colossal, giant, gigantic, high, d is e n t a n g l e , f r e e . 3 tangle with crim-
lofty, soaring, towering. t> b ig . Opp inals. become involved with, con-
SHORT. front, cross, tangled c> d is h e v e l l e d ,
INTRICATE.
tally n addition, count, reckoning,
record, sum, total. • vb 1 accord, tangy adj acid, appetizing, bitter,
agree, coincide, concur, correspond, fresh, piquant, pungent, refreshing,
match up, square. 2 tally up the bill. sharp, spicy, strong, tart. Opp b l a n d .
add, calculate, compute, count, tank n 1 aquarium, basin, cistern,
reckon, total, work out. reservoir. 2 army tank, armoured
vehicle.
tame adj 1 amenable, biddable,
broken in, compliant, disciplined, tanned adj brown, sunburnt, sun-
docile, domesticated, gentle, man- tanned, weather-beaten.
ageable, meek, mild, obedient, safe, tantalize vb bait, entice, frustrate,
subdued, submissive, tamed, tractable, inf keep on tenterhooks, lead on,
trained. 2 tame animals, approach- plague, provoke, taunt, tease, tempt,
able, bold, fearless, friendly, sociable, titillate, torment.
unafraid. 3 a tame story, bland, bor-
tap n 1 Amer faucet, spigot, stopcock,
ing, dull, feeble, flat, insipid, lifeless,
valve. 2 knock, rap. • vb knock, rap,
tedious, unadventurous, unexciting,
strike. c> h it .
uninspiring, uninteresting, vapid,
inf wishy-washy. Opp e x c it in g , w il d . tape n 1 band, belt, binding, braid,
• vb break in, conquer, curb, dis- fillet, ribbon, strip, stripe. 2 audio-
cipline, domesticate, house-train, tape, cassette, magnetic tape, tape-
humble, keep under, make tame, recording, videotape.
master, mollify, mute, quell, repress, taper n candle, lighter, spill. • vb
subdue, subjugate, suppress, temper, attenuate, become narrower, nar-
tone down, train. row, thin, taper off c> d e c l in e .
tamper vb tamper with alter, inf target n 1 aim, ambition, end, goal,
fiddle about with, interfere with, hope, intention, objective, purpose.
make adjustments to, meddle with, 2 target of attack, butt, object, quarry,
tinker with. victim.
 431
tawdry
tariff n 1 charges, menu, pricelist, tasteless adj 1 cheap, coarse, crude,
schedule. 2 tariff on imports, customs, inf flashy, garish, gaudy, graceless,
duty, excise, impost, levy, tax, toll. improper, inartistic, in bad taste,
indecorous, indelicate, inelegant,
tarnish vb 1 blacken, corrode, dirty,
injudicious, in poor taste, inf kitsch,
discolour, soil, spoil, stain, taint.
inf loud, meretricious, ugly, unat-
2 tarnish a reputation, blemish, blot,
tractive, uncouth, uncultivated,
calumniate, defame, denigrate, dis-
undiscriminating, unfashionable,
grace, dishonour, mar, ruin, spoil,
stain, sully. unimaginative, unpleasant, unre-
fined, unseemly, unstylish, vulgar.
tarry vb dawdle, delay, inf hang Opp t a s t e f u l . 2 tasteless food, bland,
about, hang back, linger, loiter, characterless, flavourless, insipid,
pause, procrastinate, temporize, mild, uninteresting, watered-down,
wait. wateiy, weak, inf wishy-washy. Opp
TASTY.
tart adj 1 acid, acidic, acidulous,
astringent, biting, citrus, harsh, tasty adj appetizing, delectable, deli-
cious, flavoursome, luscious, inf
lemony, piquant, pungent, sharp,
mouth-watering, inf nice, palatable,
sour, tangy. 2 a tart rejoinder. > s h a r p .
inf scrumptious, toothsome, st
Opp b l a n d , s w e e t . • n 1 flan, pastiy,
yummy. □ acid, bitter, creamy, fruity,
pasty, patty, pie, quiche, tartlet,
hot, meaty, peppery, piquant, salty,
turnover. 2 > pr o s t it u t e .
savoury, sharp, sour, spicy, sugary, sweet,
task n activity, assignment, burden, tangy, tart. Opp t a s t e l e s s .
business, charge, chore, duty, tattered adj frayed, ragged, rent,
employment, enterprise, errand, ripped, shredded, tatty, threadbare,
imposition, job, mission, require- tom, worn out. Opp s ma r t .
ment, test, undertaking, work, take tatters plur n bits, pieces, rags, rib-
to task t> REPRIMAND.
bons, shreds, tom pieces.
taste n 1 character, flavour, relish, tatty adj 1 frayed, old, patched,
savour. 2 bit, bite, morsel, mouth- ragged, ripped, scruffy, shabby, tat-
ful, nibble, piece, sample, titbit. 3 an tered, tom, threadbare, untidy, worn
acquired taste, appetite, appreciation, out. 2 > TAWDRY. Opp SMART.
choice, fancy, fondness, inchnation, taunt vb annoy, goad, insult, jeer at,
judgement, leaning, liking, partial- reproach, tease, torment. > r id ic u l e .
ity, preference. 4 a person of taste.
taut adj firm, rigid, stiff, strained,
breeding, cultivation, culture, dis-
stretched, tense, tight. Opp s l a c k .
cernment, discretion, discrimination,
education, elegance, fashion sense, tautological adj long-winded,
finesse, good judgement, perception, otiose, pleonastic, prolix, redundant,
perceptiveness, polish, refinement, repetitious, repetitive, superfluous,
sensitivity, style, tastefulness. • vb tautologous, verbose, wordy. Opp c o n -
nibble, relish, sample, savour, sip, c is e .
test, tiy. in bad taste > t a s t e l e s s , in tautology n duplication, long-
good taste > t a s t e f u l . windedness, pleonasm, prolixity,
repetition, verbiage, verbosity,
tasteful adj aesthetic, artistic, at-
wordiness.
tractive, charming, Fr comme il
faut, correct, cultivated, decorous, tavern n old use alehouse, bar,
dignified, discerning, discreet, dis- hostelry, inn, inf local, pub, public
criminating, elegant, fashionable, house.
in good taste, judicious, inf nice, tawdry adj inf Brummagem, cheap,
polite, proper, refined, restrained, common, eye-catching, fancy, inf
sensitive, smart, stylish, tactful, well- flashy, garish, gaudy, inferior, mere-
judged. Opp TASTELESS. tricious, poor quality, showy, taste-
tax 432

less, tatty, tinny, vulgar, worthless. mangle, pierce, pull apart, rend, rip,
Opp TASTEFUL. rive, rupture, scratch, sever, shred,
tax n charge, due, duty, imposition,
slit, snag, split, shed tears > w e e p .
impost, levy, tariff, old use tribute. tearful adj inf blubbering, crying,
□ airport tax, community charge, cor- emotional, in tears, lachrymose, sniv-
poration tax, customs, death duty, elling, sobbing, weeping, inf weepy,
wet-cheeked, whimpering. > s a d .
estate duty, excise, income tax, poll tax,
property tax, rates, old use tithe, toll,
tease vb inf aggravate, annoy,
value added tax. vb 1 assess, exact, badger, bait, chaff, goad, harass,
impose a tax on, levy a tax on. 2 tax irritate, laugh at, make fun of, mock,
someone’s patience, burden, exhaust, inf needle, inf nettle, pester, plague,
make heavy demands on, overwork, provoke, inf pull someone’s leg,
pressure, pressurize, strain, try. > inf rib, tantalize, taunt, torment, vex,
t ir e , tax with accuse of, blame for, worry. > r id ic u l e .
censure for, charge with, reproach teasing n badinage, banter, chaffing,
for, reprove for. joking, mockery, provocation,
taxi n cab, old use hackney carriage, raillery, inf ribbing, ridicule, taunts.
minicab. technical adj 1 complicated,
teach vb advise, brainwash, coach, detailed, esoteric, expert, profes-
counsel, demonstrate to, discipline, sional, specialized. 2 technical skill.
engineering, industrial, mechanical,
drill, edify, educate, enlighten, famili-
arize with, give lessons in, ground technological, scientific.
in, impart knowledge to, implant technician n engineer, mechanic,
knowledge in, inculcate habits in, skilled worker, plur technical staff.
indoctrinate, inform, instruct, lec- technique n 1 approach, dodge,
ture, school, train, tutor.
knack, manner, means, method,
teacher n adviser, educator, guide. mode, procedure, routine, system,
fj coach, counsellor, demonstrator, don,trick, way. 2 an artist’s technique, art,
governess, guru, headteacher, housemas- artistry, cleverness, craft, craftsman-
ter, housemistress, instructor, lecturer,ship, expertise, facility, inf know-
maharishi, master, mentor, mistress, ped-
how, proficiency, skill, talent,
agogue, preacher, preceptor, professor, workmanship.
pundit, schoolmaster, schoolmistress, technological adj advanced, auto-
schoolteacher, trainer, tutor. mated, computerized, electronic, sci-
teaching n 1 education, guidance, entific.
instruction, training. □ brainwashing, tedious adj banal, boring, dreaiy, inf
briefing, coaching, computer-aided learn-dry-as-dust, dull, endless, inf hum-
ing, counselling, demonstration, famili- drum, irksome, laborious, long-
arization, grounding, indoctrination, drawn-out, long-winded, monoton-
lecture, lesson, practical, preaching, rote
ous, prolonged, repetitious, slow,
learning, schooling, seminar, tuition, soporific, tiresome, tiring, unexcit-
tutorial, work experience, workshop. ing, uninteresting, vapid, wearing,
2 religious teachings, doctrine, dogma, wearisome, wearying. Opp in t e r e s t -
gospel, precept, principle, tenet. in g .
team n club, crew, gang, inf line up, tedium n boredom, dreariness,
side. > g r o u p . dullness, ennui, long-windedness,
tear n 1 [rhymes with fear] droplet, monotony, repetitiousness, slowness,
tear-drop, [plur] inf blubbering, cry- tediousness.
ing, sobs, weeping. 2 [rhymes with teem vb 1 abound (in), be alive (with),
bear] cut, fissure, gap, gash, hole, be full (of), be infested, be overrun
laceration, opening, rent, rip, slit, (by), inf bristle, inf crawl, proliferate,
split. • vb claw, gash, lacerate, seethe, swarm with. 2 > r a in .
 433 temporary
teenager n adolescent, boy, girl, unpredictability, volatility, in/wax,
juvenile, minor, youngster, youth. wrath. 3 keep your temper, calmness,
teetotal adj abstemious, abstinent, si composure, si cool, coolness, equan-
on the wagon, restrained, self-deny- imity, sang-froid, self-control, self-
ing, self-disciplined, temperate. possession. • vb 1 assuage, lessen,
teetotaller n abstainer, non-drinker,
mitigate, moderate, modify, modu-
late, reduce, soften, soothe, tone
telegram n cable, cablegram, fax, down. 2 temper steel, harden,
telex, wire. strengthen, toughen.
telepathic adj clairvoyant, psychic, temperament n attitude, charac-
telephone n inf blower, earphone, ter, old use complexion, disposition,
handset, phone. • vb in/buzz, call, frame of mind, old use humour, inf
dial, in/give someone a buzz, inf give make-up, mood, nature, personality,
someone a call, inf give someone a spirit, state of mind, temper.
tinkle, phone, ring, ring up. temperamental adj 1 character-
telescope vb abbreviate, collapse, istic, congenital, constitutional, in-
compress, elide, shorten. herent, innate, natural. 2 tempera-
telescopic adj adjustable, collaps- mental moods, capricious, changeable,
ible, expanding, extending, retract- emotional, erratic, excitable, explos-
able. ive, fickle, highly-strung, impatient,
inconsistent, inconstant, irascible,
televise vb broadcast, relay, send irritable, mercurial, moody, neurotic,
out, transmit. passionate, sensitive, touchy, unde-
television n inf the box, monitor, pendable, unpredictable, unreliable,
receiver, inf small screen, inf telly, inf up and down, variable, volatile.
video. temperance n abstemiousness,
tell vb 1 acquaint with, advise, continence, moderation, self-dis-
announce, assure, communicate, cipline, self-restraint, sobriety, tee-
describe, disclose, divulge, explain, totalism.
impart, inform, make known, nar- temperate adj calm, controlled,
rate, notify, portray, promise, recite, disciplined, moderate, reasonable,
recount, rehearse, relate, reveal, restrained, self-possessed, sensible,
utter. > s pe a k , t a l k . 2 tell the difference. sober, stable, steady. Opp e x t r e me .
calculate, comprehend, decide, dis-
tempest n cyclone, gale, hurricane,
cover, discriminate, distinguish,
tornado, tumult, typhoon, whirl-
identify, notice, recognize, see. 3 told
wind. t> STORM.
me what to do. command, direct,
instruct, order, tell off > r e pr ima n d . tempestuous adj fierce, furious,
tumultuous, turbulent, vehement,
teller n 1 author, narrator, racon-
violent, wild. t> s t o r my . Opp c a l m .
teur, storyteller. 2 teller in a bank.
bank clerk, cashier. temple n church, house of god,
mosque, pagoda, place of worship,
telling adj considerable, effective,
shrine, synagogue.
influential, potent, powerful, signi-
ficant, striking, weighty. tempo n beat, pace, pulse, rate,
rhythm, speed.
temper n 1 attitude, character, dis-
position, frame of mind, humour, inf temporal adj earthly, fleshly, imper-
make-up, mood, personality, state of manent, material, materialistic, mor-
mind, temperament. 2 watch your tal, mundane, non-religious, passing,
temper, anger, churlishness, fit of secular, sublunary, terrestrial, tran-
anger, fury, hot-headedness, ill- sient, transitory, worldly. Opp s pir -
humour, irascibility, irritability, inf it u a l .
paddy, passion, peevishness, petu- temporary adj i brief, ephemeral,
lance, rage, surliness, tantrum, evanescent, fleeting, fugitive, im-
tempt 434

permanent, interim, makeshift, 2 tender meat, chewable, eatable,

momentary, passing, provisional, edible. 3 a tender wound, aching,
short, short-lived, short-term, stop- inflamed, painful, sensitive, smart-
gap, transient, transitory. 2 temporary ing, sore. 4 a tender love-song, emo-
captain, acting. Opp pe r ma n e n t . tional, heartfelt, moving, poignant,
tempt vb allure, attract, bait, bribe,
romantic, sentimental, stirring,
cajole, captivate, coax, decoy, en- touching. 5 tender care, affectionate,
tice, fascinate, inveigle, lure, offer amorous, caring, compassionate,
incentives, persuade, seduce, tan- concerned, considerate, fond, gentle,
talize, woo. tempting > a ppe t iz in g , humane, kind, loving, merciful, pity-
ATTRACTIVE. ing, soft-hearted, sympathetic,
tender-hearted, warm-hearted. Opp
temptation n allure, allurement, TOUGH, UNSYMPATHETIC.
appeal, attraction, cajolery, coaxing,
draw, enticement, fascination, in- tense adj 1 rigid, strained, stretched,
ducement, lure, persuasion, pull, taut, tight. 2 a tense person, anxious,
seduction, snare, wooing. apprehensive, edgy, excited, fidgety,
highly-strung, intense, jittery, jumpy,
tenable adj arguable, believable, inf keyed-up, nervous, on edge, inf on
conceivable, credible, creditable, tenterhooks, overwrought, restless,
defendable, defensible, feasible, jus- strained, stressed, inf strung up,
tifiable, legitimate, logical, plausible, touchy, uneasy, si uptight, worried.
rational, reasonable, sensible, sound, 3 a tense situation, exciting, fraught,
supportable, understandable, viable. inf nail-biting, nerve-racking, stress-
Opp INDEFENSIBLE. ful, worrying. Opp r e l a x e d .
tenacious adj determined, dogged,
tension n 1 pull, strain, stretching,
firm, intransigent, obdurate, ob-
tautness, tightness. 2 the tension
stinate, persistent, pertinacious,
of waiting, anxiety, apprehension,
resolute, single-minded, steadfast,
edginess, excitement, nervousness,
strong, stubborn, tight, uncom-
stress, suspense, unease, worry. Opp
promising, unfaltering, unshake-
r e l a x a t io n .
able, unswerving, unwavering, un-
yielding. Opp WEAK. tent n □ bell tent, big-top, frame tent,
marquee, ridge tent, tepee, trailer tent,
tenant n inhabitant, leaseholder,
lessee, lodger, occupant, occupier, wigwam.
resident. tentative adj cautious, diffident,
tend vb 1 attend to, care for, cherish, doubtful, experimental, exploratory,
cultivate, guard, keep, inf keep an half-hearted, hesitant, inconclusive,
eye on, look after, manage, mind, indecisive, indefinite, nervous, pre-
minister to, mother, protect, super- liminary, provisional, shy, speculat-
vise, take care of, watch. 2 tend the ive, timid, uncertain, uncommitted,
sick, nurse, treat. 3 tend to fall asleep. unsure, inf wishywashy. Opp d e c is iv e .
be biased, be disposed, be inclined, tenuous adj attenuated, fine, flimsy,
be liable, be prone, have a tendency, fragile, insubstantial, slender, slight,
incline. weak. > t h in . Opp s t r o n g .
tendency n bias, disposition, drift, tepid adj 1 lukewarm, warm. 2 a
inclination, instinct, leaning, liabil- tepid response. > a pa t h e t ic .
ity, partiality, penchant, predilection, term n 1 duration, period, season,
predisposition, proclivity, proneness, span, spell, stretch, time. 2 a school
propensity, readiness, susceptibility, term. Amer semester, session. 3 tech-
trend. nical terms, appellation, designation,
tender adj 1 dainty, delicate, fleshy, epithet, expression, name, phrase,
fragile, frail, green, immature, soft, saying, title, word, terms 1 condi-
succulent, vulnerable, weak, young. tions, particulars, provisions, pro-
435 textile
visos, specifications, stipulations. terror n alarm, awe, consternation,
2 a hotel’s terms, charges, fees, prices, dismay, dread, fright, inf funk, hor-
rates, schedule, tariff. ror, panic, shock, trepidation. t> f e a r .
terminal adj deadly, fatal, final, terrorist n assassin, bomber, des-
incurable, killing, lethal, mortal. • n perado, gunman, hijacker.
1 keyboard, VDU, work-station. 2 pas-
senger terminal, airport, terminus. terrorize vb browbeat, bully, coerce,
3 electric terminal, connection, con- cow, intimidate, menace, persecute,
nector, coupling. terrify, threaten, torment, tyrannize.
t> FRIGHTEN.
terminate vb bring to an end, cease,
come to an end, discontinue, end, terse adj abrupt, brief, brusque, com-
finish, inf pack in, phase out, stop, inf pact, concentrated, concise, crisp,
Wind up. t> END. Opp BEGIN. curt, epigrammatic, incisive, laconic,
terminology n argot, cant, choice pithy, short, inf short and sweet, inf
of words, jargon, language, nomen- snappy, succinct, to the point. Opp
clature, phraseology, special terms, VERBOSE.
technical language, vocabulaiy. test n analysis, appraisal, assay,
terminus n destination, last stop, assessment, audition, inf check-over,
station, terminal, termination. inf check-up, evaluation, examina-
tion, inspection, interrogation, in-
terrain n country, ground, land,
vestigation, probation, quiz, screen-
landscape, territoiy, topography.
test, trial, inf tiy-out. • vb analyse,
terrestrial adj earthly, mundane, appraise, assay, assess, audition,
ordinary, sublunaiy. check, evaluate, examine, experi-
terrible adj 1 acute, appalling, awful, ment with, inspect, interrogate,
infbeastly, distressing, dreadful, fear- investigate, probe, inf put someone
ful, fearsome, formidable, fright- through their paces, put to the test,
ening, frightful, ghastly, grave, question, quiz, screen, tiy out.
gruesome, harrowing, hideous, hor- testify vb affirm, attest, aver, bear
rendous, horrible, horrific, horrify- witness, declare, give evidence, pro-
ing, insupportable, intolerable, claim, state on oath, swear, vouch,
loathsome, nasty, nauseating, outra-
witness.
geous, revolting, shocking, terrific,
terrifying, unbearable, vile. 2 > b a d . testimonial n character reference,
terrific adj Terrific may mean causing commendation, recommendation,
terror (t> t e r r ib l e ). It is more often reference.
used informally of anything which is testimony n affidavit, assertion, de-
extreme in its own way: a terrific prob- claration, deposition, evidence,
lem > e x t r e me ; terrific size > b ig ; a ter- statement, submission.
rific party > e x c e l l e n t ; a terrific storm >
tether n chain, cord, fetter, halter,
v io l e n t .
lead, leash, painter, restraint, rope.
terrify vb appal, dismay, horrify, inf • vb chain up, fetter, keep on a
make your blood run cold, petrify, tether, leash, restrain, rope, secure,
shock, terrorize. > f r ig h t e n , terrified tie Up. t> FASTEN.
t> f r ig h t e n e d , terrifying > f r ig h t e n -
in g .
text n 1 argument, content, con-
tents, matter, subject matter, word-
territory n area, colony, old use
ing. 2 a literary text, book, textbook,
demesne, district, domain, domin- work. t> w r it in g . 3 a text from scripture.
ion, enclave, jurisdiction, land, line, motif, passage, quotation, sen-
neighbourhood, precinct, preserve, tence, theme, topic, verse.
province, purlieu, region, sector,
sphere, state, terrain, tract, zone. t> textile n fabric, material, stuff. t>
COUNTRY. CLOTH.
texture 436

texture n appearance, composition, unproven, untested. Opp pr a c t ic a l ,

consistency, feel, grain, quality, sur- PROVEN.
face, tactile quality, touch, weave. theorize vb conjecture, form a the-
thank vb acknowledge, express ory, guess, hypothesize, speculate.
thanks, say thank you, show grat- theory n 1 argument, assumption,
itude. belief, conjecture, explanation,
thankful adj appreciative, contented, guess, hypothesis, idea, notion,
glad, grateful, happy, indebted, speculation, supposition, surmise,
pleased, relieved. Opp u n g r a t e f u l . thesis, view. 2 theory of a subject.
thankless adj bootless, futile, prof- laws, principles, rules, science. Opp
itless, unappreciated, unrecognized, PRACTICE.
unrewarded, unrewarding. Opp pr o f - therapeutic adj beneficial, correct-
it a b l e . ive, curative, healing, healthy, help-
thanks plur n acknowledgement, ful, medicinal, remedial, restorative,
appreciation, gratefulness, gratitude, salubrious. Opp h a r mf u l .
recognition, thanksgiving, thanks to therapist n counsellor, healer,
as a result of, because of, owing to, physiotherapist, psychoanalyst,
through. psychotherapist.
thaw, vb become liquid, defrost, de- therapy n cure, healing, remedy,
ice, heat up, melt, soften, uncongeal, tonic, treatment. □ chemotherapy,
unfreeze, unthaw, warm up. Opp group therapy, hydrotherapy, hypnother-
FREEZE. apy, occupational therapy, physiother-
theatre n 1 auditorium, hall, opera- apy, psychotherapy, radiotherapy. >
house, playhouse. 2 acting, dram- MEDICINE.
aturgy, histrionic arts, show bus- therefore adv accordingly, con-
iness, thespian arts. □ ballet, masque, sequently, hence, so, thus.
melodrama, mime, musical, music-hall,
opera, pantomime, play. > d r a ma , e n - thesis n 1 argument, assertion, con-
t e r t a in me n t , PERFORMANCE. tention, hypothesis, idea, opinion,
postulate, premise, premiss, pro-
theatrical adj 1 dramatic, histrionic,
position, theory, view. 2 a research
thespian. 2 [derog] a theatrical exit.
thesis, disquisition, dissertation,
affected, artificial, calculated, de-
essay, monograph, paper, tract, trea-
monstrative, exaggerated, forced, inf
tise.
hammy, melodramatic, ostentatious,
overacted, overdone, infover the top, thick adj 1 broad, inf bulky, chunky,
pompous, selfimportant, showy, stout, sturdy, wide. > f a t . 2 a thick
stagy, stilted, unconvincing, unnatu- layer, deep, heavy, substantial,
ral. Opp n a t u r a l . woolly. 3 a thick crowd, compact,
theft n burglary, larceny, pilfering, dense, impassable, impenetrable,
robbeiy, thieveiy. > s t e a l in g . numerous, packed, solid. 4 thick
liquid, clotted, coagulated, concen-
theme n 1 argument, core, essence, trated, condensed, firm, glutinous,
gist, idea, issue, keynote, matter, heavy, jellied, sticky, stiff, viscid, vis-
point, subject, text, thesis, thread, cous. 5 thick growth, abundant, bushy,
topic. 2 a musical theme, air, melody, luxuriant, plentiful. 6 thick with vis-
motif, subject, tune. itors. alive, bristling, inf chock-full,
theology n divinity, religion, reli- choked, covered, crammed, crawling,
gious studies. crowded, filled, full, jammed, swarm-
theoretical adj abstract, academic, ing, teeming. Opp t h in .
conjectural, doctrinaire, hypothet- thicken vb coagulate, clot, concen-
ical, ideal, notional, pure (science), trate, condense, congeal, firm up,
putative, speculative, suppositious, gel, jell, reduce, solidify, stiffen.
 437 thorough
thickness n 1 breadth, density, possessions, inf stuff. 2 How are
depth, fatness, viscosity, width. 2 a things? circumstances, conditions,
thickness of paint, rock, coating, layer, life.
seam, stratum.
think vb 1 attend, brood, chew things
thief n bandit, brigand, burglar, cat- over, cogitate, concentrate, consider,
burglar, cutpurse, embezzler, foot- contemplate, day-dream, deliberate,
pad, highwayman, housebreaker, dream, dwell (on), fantasize, give
kleptomaniac, looter, mugger, pecu- thought (to), meditate, inf mull over,
lator, pickpocket, pilferer, pirate, pla- muse, ponder, inf rack your brains,
giarist, poacher, purloiner, robber, reason, reflect, remind yourself of,
safe-cracker, shoplifter, stealer, reminisce, ruminate, use your in-
swindler. > c r imin a l . telligence, work things out, worry.
thieving adj dishonest, light-fin- 2 Do you think it’s true? accept, admit,
gered, rapacious. • nt> s t e a l in g . assume, be convinced, believe, be
under the impression, conclude,
thin adj 1 anorexic, attenuated, bony, deem, estimate, feel, guess, have
cadaverous, emaciated, fine, flat- faith, imagine, judge, presume,
chested, gangling, gaunt, lanky, lean, reckon, suppose, surmise, think bet-
narrow, pinched, rangy, scraggy, ter of t> r e c o n s id e r , thinking > in t e l -
scrawny, skeletal, skinny, slender, l ig e n t , THOUGHTFUL, think Up > DEVISE.
slight, slim, small, spare, spindly,
underfed, undernourished, under- thinker n inf brain, innovator, in-
weight, wiry. Opp f a t . 2 a thin layer. tellect, inventor, inf mastermind,
delicate, diaphanous, filmy, fine, philosopher, sage, savant, scholar.
flimsy, gauzy, insubstantial, light, inf thirst n 1 drought, dryness, thirsti-
see-through, shallow, sheer (silk), ness. 2 thirstfor knowledge, appetite,
superficial, translucent, wispy. 3 a craving, desire, eagerness, hunger,
thin crowd, meagre, scanty, scarce, itch, longing, love (of), lust, passion,
scattered, sparse. 4 thin liquid, dilute, urge, wish, yearning, inf yen. • vb be
flowing, fluid, runny, sloppy, watery, thirsty, crave, have a thirst, hunger,
weak. 5 thin atmosphere, rarefied. 6 a long, strive (after), wish, yearn, thirst
thin excuse, feeble, implausible, tenu- forc> WANT.
ous, transparent, unconvincing. Opp thirsty adj 1 arid, dehydrated, dry, inf
d e n s e , s t r o n g , t h ic k . • vb dilute, water gasping, panting, parched. 2 thirsty
down, weaken, thin out 1 become for news, avid, craving, desirous,
less dense, decrease, diminish, dis- eager, greedy, hankering, itching,
perse. 2 make less dense, prune, longing, voracious, yearning.
reduce, trim, weed out.
thorn n barb, bristle, needle, prickle,
thing n 1 apparatus, artefact, article, spike, spine.
body, contrivance, device, entity,
thorny adj 1 barbed, bristly, prickly,
gadget, implement, invention, item,
object, utensil. 2 affair, circum- scratchy, sharp, spiky, spiny. 2 > d if -
f ic u l t .
stance, deed, event, eventuality, hap-
pening, incident, occurrence, phe- thorough adj 1 assiduous, attentive,
nomenon. 3 a thing on your mind, con- careful, comprehensive, conscien-
cept, detail, fact, factor, feeling, idea, tious, deep, detailed, diligent, ef-
point, statement, thought. 4 a thing ficient, exhaustive, extensive, full,
to be done, act, action, chore, deed, inf in-depth, methodical, meticu-
job, responsibility, task. 5 [inj] a thing lous, minute, observant, orderly,
about snakes, aversion, fixation, inf organized, painstaking, particular,
hang-up, mania, neurosis, obsession, penetrating, probing, scrupulous,
passion, phobia, preoccupation, searching, systematic, thoughtful,
things 1 baggage, belongings, cloth- watchful. Opp s u pe r f ic ia l . 2 a thorough
ing, equipment, inf gear, luggage, rascal, absolute, arrant, complete,
 438
thought
downright, out-and-out, perfect, thrash vb beat, birch, cane, flay, flog,
proper, sheer, thoroughgoing, total, lash, scourge, whip. t> d e f e a t , h it .
unmitigated, unmixed, unqualified, thread n 1 fibre, filament, hair,
utter. strand. □ cotton, line, silk, string, thong,
thought n 1 inf brainwork, brood- twine, wool, yam. 2 thread of a story.
ing, inf brown study, cerebration, argument, continuity, course, direc-
cogitation, concentration, considera- tion, drift, line of thought, plot, story
tion, contemplation, day-dreaming, line, tenor, theme. • vb put on a
deliberation, intelligence, introspec- thread, string together, thread your
tion, meditation, mental activity, way file, pass, pick your way, wind,
musing, pensiveness, ratiocination, threadbare adj frayed, old, ragged,
rationality, reason, reasoning, reflec- scruffy, shabby, tattered, tatty, worn,
tion, reverie, rumination, study, worn-out.
thinking, worrying. 2 a clever thought. threat n 1 commination, intimida-
belief, concept, conception, conclu- tion, menace, warning. 2 threat of
sion, conjecture, conviction, idea, rain, danger, forewarning, intima-
notion, observation, opinion. 3 no tion, omen, portent, presage, risk,
thought of gain, aim, design, dream, warning.
expectation, hope, intention, object-
threaten vb 1 browbeat, bully, cow,
ive, plan, prospect, purpose, vision.
intimidate, make threats against,
4 a kind thought, attention, concern,
menace, pressurize, terrorize. >
consideration, kindness, solicitude,
f r ig h t e n . Opp r e a s s u r e . 2 clouds threaten
thoughtfulness.
rain, forebode, foreshadow, forewarn
thoughtful adj 1 absorbed, ab- of, give warning of, portend, presage,
stracted, anxious, attentive, brood- warn of. 3 the recession threatens jobs.
ing, contemplative, dreamy, grave, endanger, imperil, jeopardize, put at
introspective, meditative, pensive, risk.
philosophical, rapt, reflective, seri- threatening adj forbidding, grim,
ous, solemn, studious, thinking, impending, looming, menacing,
wary, watchful, worried. 2 thought- minatory, ominous, portentous, sin-
ful work, careful, conscientious, dili- ister, stem, inf ugly, unfriendly, wor-
gent, exhaustive, intelligent, meth- rying. Opp s u ppo r t iv e .
odical, meticulous, observant, orderly,
three n triad, trio, triplet, trium-
organized, painstaking, rational,
virate.
scrupulous, sensible, systematic,
thorough. 3 a thoughtful kindness, at- three-dimensional adj in the
tentive, caring, compassionate, con- round, rounded, sculptural, solid,
cerned, considerate, friendly, stereoscopic.
good-natured, helpful, obliging, threshold n 1 doorstep, doorway,
public-spirited, solicitous, unselfish. entrance, sill. 2 threshold of a new era.
t> KIND. Opp THOUGHTLESS. t> BEGINNING.
thoughtless adj 1 absentminded, thrifty adj careful, derog closefisted,
careless, forgetful, hasty, heedless, economical, frugal, derog mean, derog
ill-considered, impetuous, inadvert- niggardly, parsimonious, provident,
ent, inattentive, injudicious, irre- prudent, skimping, sparing. Opp
sponsible, mindless, negligent, rash, EXTRAVAGANT.
reckless, inf scatter-brained, unob- thrill n adventure, inf buzz, excite-
servant, unthinking. t> s t u pid . 2 a ment, frisson, fnjkick, pleasure, sen-
thoughtless insult, cruel, heartless, sation, shiver, suspense, tingle,
impolite, inconsiderate, insensitive, titillation, tremor. • vb arouse,
rude, selfish, tactless, uncaring, delight, electrify, excite, galvanize,
undiplomatic, unfeeling. t> u n k in d . rouse, stimulate, stir, titillate,
Opp THOUGHTFUL. thrilling t> e x c it in g .
 439
tight
thriller n crime story, detective story, thunderous adj booming, deafen-
mystery, inf whodunit. > w r it in g . ing, reverberant, reverberating, roar-
thrive vb be vigorous, bloom, boom, ing, rumbling. > l o u d .
burgeon, inf come on, develop thus adv accordingly, consequently,
strongly, do well, expand, flourish, for this reason, hence, so, therefore.
grow, increase, inf make strides, thwart vb baffle, baulk, block, check,
prosper, succeed. Opp d ie . thriving t> foil, frustrate, hinder, impede,
PROSPEROUS, VIGOROUS. obstruct, prevent, stand in the way
throat n gullet, neck, oesophagus, of, stop, stump.
uvula, windpipe. ticket n 1 coupon, pass, permit,
throaty adj deep, gravelly, gruff, gut-
token, voucher. 2 price ticket, docket,
tural, hoarse, husky, rasping, rough, label, marker, tab, tag.
thick. ticklish adj 1 inf giggly, responsive to
tickling, sensitive. 2 a ticklish prob-
throb vb beat, palpitate, pound, puls- lem. awkward, delicate, difficult,
ate, pulse, vibrate. risky, inf thorny, touchy, tricky.
throe n convulsion, effort, fit, labour, tide n current, drift, ebb and flow,
plur labour-pains, pang, paroxysm, movement, rise and fall.
spasm. > pa in . tidiness n meticulousness, neatness,
thrombosis ti blood-clot, embolism, order, orderliness, organization,
throng n assembly, crowd, crush,
smartness, system. Opp d is o r d e r .
gathering, horde, jam, mass, mob, tidy adj 1 neat, orderly, presentable,
multitude, swarm. t> g r o u p. shipshape, smart, inf spick and span,
spruce, straight, trim, uncluttered,
throttle vb asphyxiate, choke, well-groomed, well-kept. 2 tidy habits.
smother, stifle, strangle, suffocate. businesslike, careful, house-proud,
> KILL. methodical, meticulous, organized,
throw vb 1 bowl, inf bung, cast, inf systematic, well-organized. Opp u n -
chuck, fling, heave, hurl, launch, lob, t id y . • vb arrange, clean up, groom,
pelt, pitch, propel, put (the shot), send, make tidy, neaten, put in order,
inf shy, inf sling, toss. 2 throw light. rearrange, reorganize, set straight,
cast, project, shed. 3 throw a rider. smarten, spruce up, straighten, tit-
dislodge, floor, shake off, throw ivate. Opp MUDDLE.
down, throw off, unseat, upset. 4 > tie vb 1 bind, chain, do up, hitch,
d is c o n c e r t , throw away > d is c a r d . interlace, join, knot, lash, moor,
throw out > EXPEL, throw up t> PRO- rope, secure, splice, tether, truss up.
DUCE, VOMIT. > f a s t e n . Opp u n t ie . 2 tie in a race, be
throw-away adj 1 cheap, disposable. equal, be level, be neck and neck,
2 throw-away remark, casual, offhand, draw.
passing, unimportant. tier n course (of bricks), layer, level,
fine, order, range, rank, row, stage,
thrust vb butt, drive, elbow, force,
storey, stratum, terrace.
impel, jab, lunge, plunge, poke,
press, prod, propel, push, ram, send, tight adj 1 close, fast, firm, fixed,
shoulder, shove, stab, stick, urge. immovable, secure, snug. 2 a tight
lid. airtight, close-fitting, hermetic,
thug n assassin, inf bully-boy, delin- impermeable, impervious, leak-
quent, desperado, gangster, in/hood- proof, sealed, waterproof, watertight.
lum, hooligan, killer, mugger, inf 3 tight supervision. harsh, inflexible,
rough, ruffian, inf tough, trouble- precise, rigorous, severe, strict, strin-
maker, vandal, inf yob. > c r imin a l . gent. 4 tight ropes, rigid, stiff,
thunder n clap, crack, peal, roll, stretched, taut, tense. 5 a tight space.
rumble. > s o u n d . compact, constricted, crammed,
tighten 440

cramped, crowded, dense, inad- imous, reserved, retiring, scared,

equate, limited, packed, small. 6 > sheepish, shrinking, shy, spineless,
DRUNK. 7 > MISERLY. Opp FREE, LOOSE. tentative, timorous, unadventurous,
tighten vb 1 become tighter, clamp unheroic, wimpish. > f r ig h t e n e d . Opp
down, close, close up, constrict, BOLD.
harden, make tighter, squeeze, tingle n 1 itch, itching, pins and
stiffen, tense. > f a s t e n . 2 tighten ropes. needles, prickling, stinging, throb,
pull tighter, stretch, tauten. 3 tighten throbbing, tickle, tickling. 2 a tingle of
screws, give another turn to, screw excitement, quiver, sensation, shiver,
up. Opp LOOSEN. thrill. • vb itch, prickle, sting, tickle.
till vb cultivate, dig, farm, plough, tinker vb dabble, fiddle, fool about,
work. interfere, meddle, inf mess about, inf
tilt vb 1 angle, bank, cant, careen, play about, tamper, try to mend,
heel over, incline, keel over, lean, work amateurishly.
list, slant, slope, tip. 2 tilt with lances. tinny adj cheap, flimsy, inferior,
joust, thrust. > FIGHT. insubstantial, poor-quality, shoddy,
timber n beam, board, boarding, tawdry.
deal, lath, log, lumber, plank, plank- tinsel n decoration, glitter, gloss,
ing, post, softwood, tree, tree trunk. show, sparkle, tinfoil.
> WOOD.
tint n colour, colouring, dye, hue,
time n 1 date, hour, instant, junc- shade,- stain, tincture, tinge, tone,
ture, moment, occasion, oppor- wash.
tunity, point. 2 duration, interval,
period, phase, season, semester, ses- tiny adj diminutive, dwarf, imper-
sion, spell, stretch, term, while. ceptible, infinitesimal, insignificant,
□ aeon, century, day, decade, eternity, lilliputian, microscopic, midget, inf
fortnight, hour, lifetime, minute, month, mini, miniature, minuscule, minute,
second, week, weekend, year. 3 time of negligible, pygmy, inf teeny, unim-
Nero, age, days, epoch, era, period. portant, inf wee, inf weeny. > s ma l l .
4 time in music, beat, measure, Opp BIG.
rhythm, tempo. • vb 1 choose a time tip n 1 apex, cap, crown, end, extrem-
for, estimate, fix a time for, judge, ity, ferrule, finial, head, nib, peak,
organize, plan, schedule, timetable. pinnacle, point, sharp end, summit,
2 time a race, clock, measure the time top, vertex. 2 tip for a waiter, inf bak-
of. sheesh, gift, gratuity, inducement,
timeless adj ageless, deathless, money, inf perk, present, reward, ser-
eternal, everlasting, immortal, vice-charge;, inf sweetener. 3 useful
immutable, indestructible, perman- tips, advice, clue, forecast, hint, infor-
ent, unchanging, undying, unending, mation, pointer, prediction, sugges-
tion, tip-off, warning. 4 rubbish tip.
timely adj appropriate, apt, fitting,
dump, rubbish-heap. • vb 1 careen,
suitable.
incline, keel, lean, list, slant, slope,
timepiece n □ chronometer, clock, tilt. 2 drop off, dump, empty, pour
digital clock, digital watch, hourglass, out, spill, unload, upset. 3 tip a waiter.
stop-watch, sundial, timer, watch, wrist- give a tip to, remunerate, reward, tip
watch. over> OVERTURN.
timetable n agenda, calendar, cur- tire vb 1 become bored, become tired,
riculum, diary, list, programme, ros- flag, grow weary, weaken. 2 debil-
ter, rota, schedule. itate, drain, enervate, exhaust,
timid adj afraid, apprehensive, bash- fatigue, inf finish, si knacker, make
ful, chicken-hearted, cowardly, coy, tired, overtire, sap, inf shatter, inf
diffident, fainthearted, fearful, mod- take it out of, tax, wear out, weary.
est, inf mousy, nervous, pusillan- Opp r e f r e s h , tired > w e a r y , tired of
 441
tolerance
bored with, inf fed up with, impa- toast vb 1 brown, grill. > c o o k . 2 toast
tient with, sick of. tiring > e x h a u s t - a guest, drink a toast to, drink the
in g . health of, drink to, honour, pay trib-
tiredness n drowsiness, exhaustion, ute to, raise your glass to.
fatigue, inertia, jet-lag, lassitude, tobacco n □ cigar, cigarette, pipe
lethargy, listlessness, sleepiness, tobacco, plug, snuff.
weariness.
together adv all at once, at the same
tireless adj determined, diligent,
time, collectively, concurrently, con-
dogged, dynamic, energetic, hard-
secutively, continuously, cooper-
working, indefatigable, persistent,
atively, hand in hand, in chorus, in
pertinacious, resolute, sedulous,
unison, jointly, shoulder to shoulder,
unceasing, unfaltering, unflagging,
side by side, simultaneously.
untiring, unwavering, vigorous. Opp
LAZY. toil n inf donkey work, drudgery,
tiresome adj 1 boring, dull, mono- effort, exertion, industiy, labour,
tonous, tedious, tiring, unexciting, work. • vb drudge, exert yourself,
uninteresting, wearisome, wearying. grind away, inf keep at it, labour, inf
Opp e x c it in g . 2 tiresome delays, annoy- plug away, inf slave away, struggle,
ing, bothersome, distracting, exas- inf sweat. > w o r k .
perating, inconvenient, infuriating, toilet n 1 convenience, latrine, lav-
irksome, irritating, maddening, atory, si loo, old use privy, urinal,
petty, troublesome, tiying, unwel- water closet, WC. 2 [old use] make
come, upsetting, vexatious, vexing. your toilet, dressing, grooming, mak-
tiring adj debilitating, demanding, ing up, washing.
difficult, exhausting, fatiguing, hard, token adj cosmetic, dutiful, emblem-
laborious, strenuous, taxing, wear- atic, insincere, nominal, notional,
ing. Opp REFRESHING. perfunctory, representative, super-
tissue n 1 fabric, material, structure, ficial, symbolic. Opp g e n u in e . • n
stuff, substance. 2 tissuepaper. □ lav- 1 badge, emblem, evidence, expres-
atory paper, napkin, paper handkerchief, sion, indication, mark, marker,
serviette, toilet paper, tracing-paper. proof, reminder, sign, symbol, testi-
title n 1 caption, heading, headline, mony. 2 a token of esteem, keepsake,
inscription, name, rubric. 2 appella- memento, reminder, souvenir. 3 a
tion, designation, form of address, bus token, coin, counter, coupon, disc,
office, position, rank, status. □ Baron, voucher.
Baroness, Count, Countess, Dame, Doc- tolerable adj 1 acceptable, allow-
tor, Dr, Duchess, Duke, Earl, Lady, Lord, able, bearable, endurable, sufferable,
Marchioness, Marquis, Master, Miss, Mr, supportable. 2 tolerable food, ad-
Mrs, Ms, Professor, Rev, Reverend, Sir, equate, all right, average, fair,
Viscount, Viscountess. > r a n k , r o y a l . mediocre, middling, inf OK, ordinary,
3 title to an inheritance, claim, deed, passable, satisfactoiy. Opp in t o l e r -
entitlement, interest, ownership, a bl e.
possession, prerogative, right. • vb
call, designate, entitle, give a title to, tolerance n 1 broad-mindedness,
label, name, tag. charity, fairness, forbearance, for-
giveness, lenience, open-mindedness,
titled adj aristocratic, noble, upper
openness, patience, permissiveness.
class. 2 tolerance of others, acceptance, suf-
titter vb chortle, chuckle, giggle, ferance, sympathy (towards), tolera-
snicker, snigger. > l a u g h . tion, understanding. 3 tolerance in
titular adj formal, nominal, official, moving parts, allowance, clearance,
putative, inf so-called, theoretical, deviation, fluctuation, play, vari-
token. Opp a c t u a l . ation.
tolerant 442

tolerant adj big-hearted, broad- mallet, pincers, plane, pliers, power-drill,

minded, charitable, easygoing, fair, rasp, sander, sandpaper, saw, screw-
forbearing, forgiving, generous, driver, spokeshave, T-square, vice, wrench.
indulgent, derog lax, lenient, lib- □ [gardening] billhook, dibber, fork,
eral, magnanimous, open-minded, grass-rake, hoe, lawnmower, mattock,
patient, permissive, derog soft, sym- pruning knife, pruning shears, rake,
pathetic, understanding, unpreju- roller, scythe, secateurs, shears, sickle,
diced. Opp INTOLERANT. spade, Strimmer, trowel. □ [various] axe,
tolerate vb abide, accept, admit, bellows, chainsaw, chopper, clippers,
bear, brook, concede, condone, coun- crowbar, cutter, hatchet, jack, ladder,
tenance, endure, inf lump (III have to lever, penknife, pick, pickaxe, pitch-
lump it!), make allowances for, per- fork, pocket-knife, scissors, shovel, sledge-
mit, inf put up with, sanction, inf hammer, spanner, tape-measure, tongs,
stand, in/stick, in/stomach, suffer, tweezers.
in/take, undergo, in/wear, weather, tooth n a canine, eye-tooth, fang, incisor,
toll n charge, dues, duty, fee, levy, molar, tusk, wisdom tooth, false teeth
payment, tariff, tax. • vb chime, peal, bridge, denture, dentures, plate.
ring.'sound, strike. toothed adj cogged, crenellated,
tomb n burial chamber, burial place, denticulate, indented, jagged, ser-
catacomb, crypt, grave, gravestone, rated. Opp SMOOTH.
last resting-place, mausoleum, top adj inf ace, best, choicest, finest,
memorial, monument, sepulchre, first,' foremost, greatest, highest,
tombstone, vault. incomparable, leading, maximum,
tonality n key, tonal centre. most, peerless, pre-eminent, prime,
principal, supreme, topmost, un-
tone n 1 accent, colouring, expres-
equalled, winning, n 1 acme, apex,
sion, feel, inflection, intonation,
apogee, crest, crown, culmination,
manner, modulation, note, phrasing, head, height, high point, peak, pin-
pitch, quality, sonority, sound, tim- nacle, summit, tip, vertex, zenith.
bre. 2 tone of a poem, place, air, atmo-
2 top of a table, surface. 3 top of a jar.
sphere, character, effect, feeling,
cap, cover, covering, lid, stopper. Opp
mood, spirit, style, temper, vein.
b o t t o m . • vb 1 complete, cover, dec-
3 colour tone, colour, hue, shade,
orate, finish off, garnish, surmount.
tinge, tint, tonality, tone down t>
2 beat, be higher than, better, cap,
s o f t e n , tone in t> h a r m o n iz e , tone up
exceed, excel, outdo, outstrip, sur-
t> s t r e n g t h e n .
pass, transcend.
tongue n dialect, idiom, language,
topic n issue, matter, point, ques-
parlance, patois, speech, talk, ver-
tion, subject, talking-point, text,
nacular.
theme, thesis.
tongue-tied adj dumb, dumb-
topical adj contemporary, current,
founded, inarticulate, inf lost for
recent, timely, up-to-date.
words, mute, silent, speechless.
topography n features, geography,
tonic n boost, cordial, dietary sup-
in/lie of the land.
plement, fillip, inf pick-me-up,
refresher, restorative, stimulant. topple vb 1 bring down, fell, knock
down, overturn, throw down, tip
tool n apparatus, appliance, contrap-
over, upset. 2 collapse, fall, overbal-
tion, contrivance, device, gadget,
ance, totter, tumble. 3 topple a rival.
hardware, implement, instrument,
oust, overthrow, unseat. t> d e f e a t .
invention, machine, mechanism,
utensil, weapon. □ [carpentry] auger, torch n bicycle lamp, brand, electric
awl, brace and bit, bradawl, chisel, lamp, flashlight, lamp, old use link.
clamp, cramp, drill, file, fretsaw, gimlet, torment n affliction, agony, anguish,
glass-paper, hacksaw, hammer, jigsaw, distress, harassment, misery, ordeal,
443 touchy
persecution, plague, scourge, suffer- out-and-out, outright, perfect, sheer,
ing, torture, vexation, woe, worry, thorough, thoroughgoing, unalloyed,
wretchedness. > pa in . • vb afflict, unmitigated, unqualified, utter. • n
annoy, bait, be a torment to, bedevil, aggregate, amount, answer, lot, sum,
bother, bully, distress, harass, inflict totality, whole. • vb 1 add up to,
pain on, intimidate, inf nag, perse- amount to, come to, make. 2 add up,
cute, pester, plague, tease, torture, calculate, compute, count, find the
vex, victimize, worry. > h u r t . sum of, find the total of, reckon up,
torpid adj apathetic, dormant, dull, totalize, inf tot up, work out.
inactive, indolent, inert, lackadais- totalitarian adj absolute, arbitrary,
ical, languid, lethargic, lifeless, list- authoritarian, autocratic, despotic,
less, passive, phlegmatic, slothful, dictatorial, fascist, illiberal, one-
slow, slow-moving, sluggish, somno- party, oppressive, tyrannous, un-
lent, spiritless. Opp l iv e l y . democratic, unrepresentative. Opp
torrent n cascade, cataract, deluge, DEMOCRATIC.
downpour, effusion, flood, flow, totter vb dodder, falter, reel, rock,
gush, inundation, outpouring, over- stagger, stumble, teeter, topple,
flow, rush, spate, stream, tide. tremble, waver, wobble. > w a l k .
torrential adj copious, heavy, relent- touch n 1 feeling, texture, touching.
' less, soaking, teeming, violent. 2 brush, caress, contact, dab, pat,
tortuous adj bent, circuitous, com- stroke, tap. 3 an expert’s touch, ability,
plicated, contorted, convoluted, capability, experience, expertise,
corkscrew, crooked, curling, curvy, facility, feel, flair, gift, knack, man-
devious, indirect, involved, ner, sensitivity, skill, style, tech-
labyrinthine, mazy, meandering, nique, understanding, way. 4 a touch
roundabout, serpentine, sinuous, of salt, bit, dash, drop, hint, intima-
turning, twisted, twisting, twisty, tion, small amount, suggestion, sus-
wandering, winding, zigzag. Opp picion, taste, tinge, trace. • vb 1 be in
DIRECT, STRAIGHT. contact with, brush, caress, contact,
cuddle, dab, embrace, feel, finger,
torture n 1 cruelty, degradation, fondle, graze, handle, hit, kiss,
humiliation, inquisition, persecu- lean against, manipulate, massage,
tion, punishment, torment. 2 afflic- nuzzle, pat, paw, pet, push, rub,
tion, agony, anguish, distress, stroke, tap, tickle. 2 touch the emotions.
misery, pain, plague, scourge, suf- affect, arouse, awaken, concern,
fering. • vb 1 be cruel to, brainwash, disturb, impress, influence, inspire,
bully, cause pain to, degrade, dehu- move, stimulate, stir, upset. 3 touch
manize, humiliate, hurt, inflict pain 100 m.p.h. attain, reach, rise to. 4 1
on, intimidate, persecute, rack, tor- can’t touch her skill, be in the same
ment, victimize. 2 tortured by doubts. league as, inf come up to, compare
afflict, agonize, annoy, bedevil, with, equal, match, parallel, rival,
bother, distress, harass, inf nag, touched > e mo t io n a l , m a d . touching
pester, plague, tease, vex, worry. > EMOTIONAL, touch off > BEGIN,
toss vb 1 bowl, cast, inf chuck, fling, IGNITE, touch On > MENTION, touch
flip, heave, hurl, lob, pitch, shy, sling, up > IMPROVE.
throw. 2 toss about in a storm, bob, touchy adj edgy, highly strung,
dip, flounder, lurch, move restlessly, hypersensitive, irascible, irritable, jit-
pitch, plunge, reel, rock, roll, shake, tery, jumpy, nervous, over-sensitive,
twist and turn, wallow, welter, peevish, querulous, quick-tempered,
writhe, yaw. sensitive, short-tempered, snappy,
total adj 1 complete, comprehensive, temperamental, tense, testy, tetchy,
entire, full, gross, overall, whole. thin-skinned, unpredictable, wasp-
2 total disaster, absolute, downright, ish.
tough 444

tough adj 1 durable, hard-wearing, ment, township, urban district, vil-

indestructible, lasting, rugged, lage.
sound, stout, strong, substantial, toxic adj dangerous, deadly, harmful,
unbreakable, well-built, well-made. lethal, noxious, poisonous. Opp h a r m -
2 tough physique, inf beefy, brawny, l ess.
burly, hardy, muscular, robust,
trace n 1 clue, evidence, footprint,
stalwart, strong, sturdy. 3 tough
opposition, invulnerable, merciless, inf give-away, hint, indication, in-
obdurate, obstinate, resilient, resis- timation, mark, remains, sign,
tant, resolute, ruthless, stiff, stub- spoor, token, track, trail, vestige.
born, tenacious, unyielding. 4 a tough 2 > b it . • vb 1 detect, discover, find,
taskmaster, cold, cool, inf hardboiled, get back, recover, retrieve, seek out,
hardened, inf hard-nosed, inhuman, track down. > t r a c k . 2 trace an outline.
severe, stem, stony, uncaring, unsen- copy, draw, go over, make a copy of,
timental, unsympathetic. 5 tough mark out, sketch, kick over the
meat, chewy, hard, gristly, leathery, traces > r e b e l .
rubbery, uneatable. 6 tough work. track n 1 footmark, footprint, mark,
arduous, demanding, difficult, exact- scent, spoor, trace, trail, wake (of
ing, exhausting, gruelling, hard, ship). 2 a farm track, bridle-path,
laborious, stiff, strenuous, taxing, bridle-way, cart-track, footpath,
troublesome. 7 a tough problem, baf- path, route, trail, way. > r o a d . 3 a
fling, intractable, inf knotty, mys- racing track, circuit, course, dirt-track,
tifying, perplexing, puzzling, inf race-track. 4 railway track, branch,
thorny. Opp e a s y , t e n d e r , w e a k . branch line, line, mineral line, per-
toughen vb harden, make tougher, manent way, rails, railway, route,
reinforce, strengthen. tramway. • vb chase, dog, follow,
hound, hunt, pursue, shadow, stalk,
tour n circular tour, drive, excursion,
tail, trace, trail, make tracks t>
expedition, jaunt, journey, outing, d e pa r t , track down t> t r a c e .
peregrination, ride, trip. • vb do the
rounds of, explore, go round, make a trade n 1 barter, business, buying
tour of, visit. > t r a v e l . and selling, commerce, dealing,
exchange, industry, market, market-
tourist n day-tripper, holidaymaker,
ing, merchandising, trading, traffic,
sightseer, traveller, tripper, visitor.
transactions. 2 a skilled trade, calling,
tournament n championship, com- career, craft, employment, job, inf
petition, contest, event, match, meet- line, occupation, profession, pursuit,
ing, series. work. • vb buy and sell, do business,
tow vb drag, draw, haul, lug, pull, have dealings, market goods, mer-
trail, tug. chandise, retail, sell, traffic (in),
trade in > e x c h a n g e , trade on >
tower n □ belfry, campanile, castle, fort,
fortress, keep, minaret, pagoda, sky- EXPLOIT.
scraper, spire, steeple, turret. • vb trader n broker, buyer, dealer, mer-
ascend, dominate, loom, rear, rise, chant, retailer, roundsman, sales-
soar, stand out, stick up. man, seller, shopkeeper, stockist,
towering adj 1 colossal, gigantic, supplier, tradesman, trafficker (in
high, huge, imposing, lofty, mighty, illegal goods), vendor.
soaring. > t a l l . 2 a towering rage. tradition n 1 convention, custom,
extreme, fieiy, immoderate, intem- habit, institution, practice, rite, rit-
perate, intense, mighty, overpower- ual, routine, usage. 2 popular tradi-
ing, passionate, unrestrained, tion. belief, folklore.
vehement, violent. traditional adj 1 accustomed, con-
town n borough, city, community, ventional, customary, established,
conurbation, municipality, settle- familiar, habitual, historic, normal,
 445 transform
orthodox, regular, time-honoured, traitor n apostate, betrayer, black-
typical, usual. Opp u n c o n v e n t io n a l . leg, collaborator, defector, deserter,
2 traditional stories, folk, handed double-crosser, fifth columnist,
down, old, oral, popular, unwritten. informer, inf Judas, quisling, ren-
Opp MODERN. egade, turncoat.
traffic n conveyance, movements, tramp n 1 hike, march, trek, trudge,
shipping, transport, transportation. walk. 2 a homeless tramp, beggar, inf
> VEHICLE. • Vb > TRADE. destitute person, inf dosser, inf down
and out, drifter, homeless person,
tragedy n adversity, affliction, inf
rover, traveller, vagabond, vagrant,
blow, calamity, catastrophe, disaster,
wanderer. • vb inf footslog, hike,
misfortune. Opp c o me d y .
march, plod, stride, toil, traipse, trek,
tragic adj 1 appalling, awful, calam- trudge, si yomp. > w a l k .
itous, catastrophic, depressing, dire, trample vb crush, flatten, squash, inf
disastrous, dreadful, fatal, fearful, squish, stamp on, step on, tread on,
hapless, ill-fated, ill-omened, ill- walk over.
starred, inauspicious, lamentable,
terrible, tragical, unfortunate, trance n inf brown study, daydream,
unlucky. 2 a tragic expression, bereft, daze, dream, ecstasy, hypnotic state,
distressed, funereal, grief-stricken, rapture, reverie, semi-consciousness,
hurt, pathetic, piteous, pitiful, sor- spell, stupor, unconsciousness.
rowful, woeful, wretched. > s a d . Opp tranquil adj 1 calm, halcyon (days),
COMIC. peaceful, placid, quiet, restful,
trail n 1 evidence, footmarks, foot- serene, still, undisturbed, unruffled.
prints, marks, scent, signs, spoor, Opp s t o r my . 2 a tranquil mood, col-
traces, wake (of ship). 2 path, path- lected, composed, dispassionate, inf
way, route, track. > r o a d . • vb 1 laid-back, sedate, sober, unemo-
dangle, drag, draw, haul, pull, tional, unexcited, untroubled. Opp
tow. 2 chase, follow, hunt, pursue, EXCITED.
shadow, stalk, tail, trace, track down. tranquillizer n barbiturate, brom-
3 > DAWDLE. ide, narcotic, opiate, sedative.
train n 1 carriage, coach, diesel, inf transaction n agreement, bargain,
DMU, electric train, express, inter- business, contract, deal, negotiation,
city, local train, railcar, steam train, proceeding.
stopping train. 2 train of servants. transcend vb beat, exceed, excel,
cortege, entourage, escort, followers, outdo, outstrip, rise above, surpass,
guard, line, retainers, retinue, staff, top.
suite. 3 train of events. t> s e q u e n c e . • vb
transcribe vb copy out, render,
1 coach, discipline, drill, educate,
reproduce, take down, translate,
instruct, prepare, school, teach,
transliterate, write out.
tutor. 2 do exercises, exercise, inf
get fit, practise, prepare yourself, transfer vb bring, cany, change, con-
rehearse, inf work out. 3 > a im . vey, deliver, displace, ferry, hand
over, make over, move, pass on, pass
trainee n apprentice, beginner,
over, relocate, remove, second, shift,
cadet, learner, inf L-driver, novice, sign over, take, transplant, transport,
pupil, starter, student, tiro, unquali-
transpose.
fied person. %
transform vb adapt, alter, change,
trainer n coach, instructor, teacher, convert, improve, metamorphose,
tutor. modify, mutate, permute, rebuild,
trait n attribute, characteristic, fea- reconstruct, remodel, revolutionize,
ture, idiosyncrasy, peculiarity, prop- transfigure, translate, transmogrify,
erty, quality, quirk. transmute, turn.
transformation 446

transformation n adaptation, al- translucent. 2 transparent honesty. >

teration, change, conversion, im- CANDID.
provement, metamorphosis, modi- transplant vb displace, move, re-
fication, mutation, reconstruction, locate, reposition, resettle, shift,
revolution, transfiguration, trans- transfer, uproot.
ition, translation, transmogrifica-
transport n carrier, conveyance,
tion, transmutation, inf turn-about.
haulage, removal, shipment, ship-
transgression n crime, error, fault, ping, transportation. □ aircrajt, barge,
lapse, misdeed, misdemeanour, boat, bus, cable-car, car, chair-lift, coach,
offence, sin, wickedness, wrongdo- cycle, ferry, horse, lorry, Metro, minibus,
ing. old use omnibus, ship, space-shuttle,
transient adj brief, ephemeral, taxi, train, tram, van. □ air, canal, rail-
evanescent, fleeting, fugitive, imper- way, road, sea, waterways. c> v e h ic l e ,
manent, momentary, passing, inf v e s s e l . • vb 1 bear, carry, convey,
quick, short, short-lived, temporary, fetch, haul, move, remove, send,
transitory. Opp pe r ma n e n t . shift, ship, take, transfer. 2 > d e po r t .
transit n conveyance, journey, move- transpose vb change, exchange,
ment, moving, passage, progress, interchange, metathesize, move
shipment, transfer, transportation, round, rearrange, reverse, substi-
travel. tute, swap, switch, transfer.
transition n alteration, change, transverse adj crosswise, diagonal,
change-over, conversion, develop- oblique.
ment, evolution, modification, move- trap n ambush, booby-trap, decep-
ment, progress, progression, shift, tion, gin, mantrap, net, noose, pitfall,
transformation, transit. ploy, snare, trick. • vb ambush,
translate vb change, convert, arrest, capture, catch, catch out, cor-
decode, elucidate, explain, express, ner, deceive, dupe, ensnare, entrap,
gloss, interpret, make a translation, inveigle, net, snare, trick.
paraphrase, render, reword, spell trappings plum accessories, accom-
out, transcribe. > t r a n s f o r m . paniments, accoutrements, adorn-
translation n decoding, gloss, inter- ments, appointments, decorations,
pretation, paraphrase, rendering, equipment, finery, fittings, furnish-
transcription, transliteration, ver- ings, inf gear, ornaments, parapher-
sion. nalia, inf things, trimmings.
translator n interpreter, linguist, trash n 1 debris, garbage, junk, litter,
refuse, rubbish, sweepings, waste.
transmission n 1 broadcasting,
2 > NONSENSE.
communication, diffusion, dissem-
ination, relaying, sending out. travel n globe-trotting, moving
2 transmission of goods, carriage, car- around, peregrination, touring,
rying, conveyance, dispatch, sending, tourism, travelling, wandering.
shipment, shipping, transfer, trans- □ cruise, drive, excursion, expedition,
ference, transport, transportation. exploration, flight, hike, holiday, jour-
ney, march, migration, mission, outing,
transmit vb 1 convey, dispatch, dis-
pilgrimage, ramble, ride, safari, sail, sea-
seminate, forward, pass on, post, passage, tour, trek, trip, visit, voyage,
send, transfer, transport. 2 transmit a walk. • vb inf gad about, inf gallivant,
message, broadcast, cable, commun- journey, make a trip, move, proceed,
icate, emit, fax, phone, radio, relay, progress, roam, poet rove, voyage,
telephone, telex, wire. Opp r e c e iv e . wander. > g o . □ aviate, circumnavigate
transparent adj 1 clear, crystalline, (the world), commute, cruise, cycle, drive,
diaphanous, filmy, gauzy, limpid, emigrate, fly, free-wheel, hike, hitch-
pellucid, inf see-through, sheer, hike, march, migrate, motor, navigate,
447 tremulous
paddle, pedal, pilot, punt, ramble, ride, use. 2 treat a topic, consider, deal
row, sail, shuttle, steam, tour, trek, walk. with, discuss, tackle. 3 treat a patient,
traveller n 1 astronaut, aviator, wound, cure, dress, give treatment
commuter, cosmonaut, cyclist, to, heal, medicate, nurse, prescribe
driver, flyer, migrant, motorcyclist, medicine for, tend. 4 treat food.
motorist, passenger, pedestrian, process. 5 treat a friend to dinner.
sailor, voyager, walker. 2 a company entertain, give a treat, pay for, pro-
traveller, inf rep, representative, sales- vide for, regale.
man, saleswoman. 3 overseas trav- treatise n disquisition, dissertation,
ellers. explorer, globe-trotter, hiker, essay, monograph, pamphlet, paper,
hitchhiker, holidaymaker, pilgrim, thesis, tract. > w r it in g .
rambler, stowaway, tourist, tripper,
wanderer, wayfarer. 4 live as travellers. treatment n 1 care, conduct, deal-
gypsy, itinerant, nomad, tinker, ing (with), handling, management,
tramp, vagabond. manipulation, organization, recep-
tion, usage, use. 2 treatment of illness.
travelling adj homeless, itiner- cure, first aid, healing, nursing, rem-
ant, migrant, migratory, mobile, edy, therapy. > m e d ic in e , t h e r a py .
nomadic, peripatetic, restless, roam-
ing, roving, touring, vagrant, wan- treaty n agreement, alliance, ar-
dering. mistice, compact, concordat, con-
tract, covenant, convention, inf deal,
treacherous adj 1 deceitful, dis-
entente, pact, peace, protocol,
loyal, double-crossing, double-deal- settlement, truce, understanding.
ing, duplicitous, faithless, false,
perfidious, sneaky, unfaithful, tree n bush, sapling, standard. □ bon-
untrustworthy. 2 treacherous condi- sai, conifer, cordon, deciduous tree,
tions. dangerous, deceptive, haz- espalier, evergreen, pollard, standard.
ardous, misleading, perilous, risky, □ ash, banyan, baobab, bay, beech, birch,
shifting, unpredictable, unreliable, cacao, cedar, chestnut, cypress, elder, elm,
unsafe, unstable. Opp l o y a l , r e l ia b l e . eucalyptus, fir, fruit-tree, gum-tree,
treachery n betrayal, dishonesty,
hawthorn, hazel, holly, horse-chestnut,
disloyalty, double-dealing, duplicity, larch, lime, maple, oak, olive, palm, pine,
faithlessness, infidelity, perfidy, plane, poplar, redwood, rowan, sequoia,
untrustworthiness. > t r e a s o n . Opp spruce, sycamore, tamarisk, tulip tree,
LOYALTY. willow, yew.
tread vb tread on crush, squash tremble vb quail, quake, quaver,
underfoot, stamp on, step on, quiver, rock, shake, shiver, shudder,
trample, walk on. > w a l k . vibrate, waver.
treason n betrayal, high treason, tremendous adj alarming,
mutiny, rebellion, sedition. > t r e a c h - appalling, awful, fearful, fearsome,
er y. frightening, frightful, horrifying,
treasure n cache, cash, fortune,
shocking, startling, terrible, terrific.
gold, hoard, jewels, riches, treasure > BIG, EXCELLENT, REMARKABLE.
trove, valuables, wealth. • vb adore, tremor n 1 agitation, hesitation, qua-
appreciate, cherish, esteem, guard, vering, quiver, shaking, trembling,
keep safe, love, prize, rate highly, vibration. 2 earthquake, seismic dis-
value, venerate, worship. turbance.
treasury n bank, exchequer, hoard, tremulous adj 1 agitated, anxious,
repository, storeroom, treasure- excited, frightened, jittery, jumpy,
house, vault. nervous, timid, uncertain. Opp c a l m .
treat n entertainment, gift, outing, 2 quivering, shaking, shivering,
pleasure, surprise. • vb 1 attend to, trembling, inf trembly, vibrating. Opp
behave towards, care for, look after, STEADY.
trend 448

trend n 1 bent, bias, direction, drift, funny business, guile, inf hocus-
inclination, leaning, movement, pocus, infjiggerypokery, knaveiy, inf
shift, tendency. 2 latest trend, craze, skulduggery, slyness, swindling, trick,
inf fad, fashion, mode, inf rage, style, trickle vb dribble, drip, drizzle, drop,
inf thing, vogue, way. Cxude, flow slowly, leak, ooze, per-
trendy adj inf all the rage, contem- colate, run, seep. Opp g u s h .
porary, fashionable, inf in, latest, trifle vb behave frivolously, dabble,
modern, stylish, up-to-date, voguish. fiddle, fool about, play about, trifling
Opp OLD-FASHIONED. > TRIVIAL.
trespass vb encroach, enter illegally, trill vb sing, twitter, warble, whistle,
intrude, invade. trim adj compact, neat, orderly, inf
trial n 1 case, court martial, enquiry, shipshape, smart, spruce, tidy, well-
examination, hearing, inquisition, groomed, well-kept, well-ordered.
judicial proceeding, lawsuit, tribunal. Opp u n t id y . • vb 1 clip, crop, cut, dock,
2 attempt, check, inf dry run, ex- pare down, prune, shape, shear,
periment, rehearsal, test, testing, shorten, snip, tidy. 2 > d e c o r a t e .
trial run, inf try-out. 3 a sore trial. trip n day out, drive, excursion, ex-
affliction, burden, difficulty, hard- pedition, holiday, jaunt, journey,
ship* nuisance, ordeal, si pain in the outing, ride, tour, visit, voyage.
neck, inf pest, problem, tribulation, • vb 1 blunder, catch your foot, fall,
trouble, worry. stagger, stumble, totter, tumble.
triangular adj three-cornered, three- 2 trip along, caper, dance, frisk,
sided. gambol, run, skip, make a trip >
tribe n clan, dynasty, family, group, TRAVEL.
horde, house, nation, pedigree, trite adj banal, commonplace, or-
people, race, stock, strain. dinary, pedestrian, predictable,
tribute n accolade, appreciation, uninspired, uninteresting.
commendation, compliment, eulogy, triumph n 1 accomplishment,
glorification, homage, honour, pan- achievement, conquest, coup, inf hit,
egyric, praise, recognition, respect, knockout, master-stroke, inf smash
testimony, pay tribute to > h o n o u r . hit, success, victory, inf walk-over,
trick n 1 illusion, legerdemain,
win. 2 return in triumph, celebration,
magic, sleight of hand. 2 deceitful elation, exultation, joy, jubilation,
trick, cheat, inf con, deceit, deception, rapture. • vb be victorious, carry the
fraud, hoax, imposture, joke, inf leg- day, prevail, succeed, take the hon-
pull, manoeuvre, ploy, practical joke, ours, win. triumph over > d e f e a t .
prank, pretence, ruse, scheme, stra- triumphant adj 1 conquering, dom-
tagem, stunt, subterfuge, swindle, inant, successful, victorious, win-
trap, trickery, wile. 3 clever trick, art, ning. Opp u n s u c c e s s f u l . 2 boastful, inf
craft, device, dodge, expertise, gim- cocky, elated, exultant, gleeful, gloat-
mick, knack, inf know-how, secret, ing, immodest, joyful, jubilant,
skill, technique. 4 a trick of speech. proud, triumphal.
characteristic, habit, idiosyncrasy, trivial adj inf fiddling, inf footling,
mannerism, peculiarity, way. • vb inf frivolous, inconsequential, inconsid-
bamboozle, bluff, catch out, cheat, erable, inessential, insignificant,
inf con, cozen, deceive, defraud, inf little, meaningless, minor, negli-
diddle, dupe, fool, hoax, hoodwink, gible, paltry, pettifogging, petty, inf
inf kid, mislead, outwit, inf pull your piddling, inf piffling, silly, slight,
leg, swindle, inf take in. small, superficial, trifling, trite, un-
trickery n bluffing, cheating, chi- important, worthless. Opp im po r t a n t .
canery, deceit, deception, dishonesty, trophy n 1 booty, loot, mementoes,
double-dealing, duplicity, fraud, inf rewards, souvenirs, spoils. 2 a sport-
 449 trustworthy
ing trophy, award, cup, laurels, medal, truant n absentee, deserter, dodger,
palm, prize. idler, malingerer, runaway, shirker,
trouble n 1 adversity, affliction, an- inf skiver, play truant be absent,
xiety, burden, difficulty, distress, desert, malinger, inf skive, stay away.
grief, hardship, illness, inconvenience, truce n agreement, armistice, cease-
misery, misfortune, pain, problem, fire, moratorium, pact, peace, sus-
sadness, sorrow, suffering, trial, pension of hostilities, treaty.
tribulation, unhappiness, vexation, true adj 1 accurate, actual, authentic,
wony. 2 crowd trouble, bother, com-
confirmed, correct, exact, factual,
motion, conflict, discontent, discord,
faithful, faultless, flawless, genuine,
disorder, dissatisfaction, disturbance,
literal, proper, real, realistic, right,
fighting, fuss, misbehaviour, mis-
veracious, verified, veritable. Opp
conduct, naughtiness, row, strife, f a l s e . 2 a true fiend, constant, dedic-
turmoil, unpleasantness, unrest, vi- ated, dependable, devoted, faithful,
olence. 3 engine trouble, breakdown, firm, honest, honourable, loyal, reli-
defect, failure, fault, malfunction. able, responsible, sincere, staunch,
4 took the trouble to get it right, care,
steadfast, steady, trustworthy, trusty,
concern, effort, exertion, labour, upright. 3 the true owner, authorized,
pains, struggle, thought. • vb afflict, legal, legitimate, rightful, valid. 4 true
agitate, alarm, anguish, annoy, aim. accurate, exact, perfect, precise,
bother, cause trouble to, concern, inf spot-on, unerring, unswerving.
discommode, distress, disturb, exas- Opp in a c c u r a t e .
perate, grieve, harass, inf hassle,
hurt, impose on, inconvenience, truncheon n baton, club, cudgel,
interfere with, irk, irritate, molest, staff, stick.
nag, pain, perturb, pester, plague, inf trunk n 1 bole, shaft, stalk, stem,
put out, ruffle, threaten, torment, stock. 2 a person’s trunk, body, frame,
upset, vex, worry. Opp r e a s s u r e . torso. 3 an elephant’s trunk, nose, pro-
troubled > w o r r ie d . boscis. 4 a clothes’ trunk, box, case,
troublemaker n Fr agent provoc- casket, chest, coffer, crate, locker,
ateur, agitator, criminal, culprit, suitcase.
delinquent, hooligan, malcontent, trust n 1 assurance, belief, certainty,
mischief-maker, offender, rabble- certitude, confidence, conviction, cre-
rouser, rascal, ringleader, ruffian, dence, faith, reliance. 2 a. position of
scandalmonger, inf stirrer, vandal, trust, responsibility, trusteeship. • vb
wrongdoer. 1 inf bank on, believe in, be sure of,
troublesome adj annoying, badly- confide in, count on, depend on,
behaved, bothersome, disobedient, have confidence in, have faith in, inf
disorderly, distressing, inconvenient, pin your hopes on, rely on. 2 assume,
irksome, irritating, naughty, inf pes- expect, hope, imagine, presume, sup-
tiferous, pestilential, rowdy, tire- pose, surmise. Opp d o u b t .
some, trying, uncooperative, unruly, trustful adj confiding, credulous,
upsetting, vexatious, vexing, weari- gullible, innocent, trusting, unques-
some, worrisome, worrying. Opp h e l p - tioning, unsuspecting, unsuspicious,
ful . unwary. Opp d is t r u s t f u l .
trousers n inf bags, breeches, cor- trustworthy adj constant, depend-
duroys, culottes, denims, dungarees, able, ethical, faithful, honest, hon-
jeans, jodhpurs, old use knickerbock- ourable, loyal, moral, on the level,
ers, inf Levis, overalls, Amer pants, principled, reliable, responsible, inf
plus-fours, shorts, ski-pants, slacks, safe, sensible, sincere, steadfast,
Scot trews, trunks. steady, straightforward, true, old use
truancy n absenteeism, desertion, trusty, truthful, upright. Opp d e c e it -
malingering, shirking, inf skiving. ful .
truth 450

truth n 1 facts, reality. Opp l ie . 2 ac- tumultuous adj agitated, boisterous,

curacy, authenticity, correctness, confused, excited, frenzied, hectic,
exactness, factuality, genuineness, passionate, stormy, tempestuous,
integrity, reliability, truthfulness, turbulent, unrestrained, unruly, vi-
validity, veracity, verity. 3 an accepted olent, wild. Opp CALM.
truth, axiom, fact, maxim, truism. tune n air, melody, motif, song,
truthful adj accurate, candid, correct, strain, theme. • vb adjust, calibrate,
credible, earnest, factual, faithful, regulate, set, temper.
forthright, frank, honest, proper, tuneful adj inf catchy, euphonious,
realistic, reliable, right, sincere, inf mellifluous, melodic, melodious,
straight, straightforward, true, trust- musical, pleasant, singable, sweet-
worthy, valid, veracious, unvar- sounding. Opp t u n e l e s s .
nished. Opp DISHONEST. tuneless adj atonal, boring, caco-
try n attempt, inf bash, inf crack, phonous, discordant, dissonant,
effort, endeavour, experiment, inf go, harsh, monotonous, unmusical. Opp
inf shot, inf stab, test, trial. • vb TUNEFUL.
1 aim, attempt, endeavour, essay, tunnel n burrow, gallery, hole, mine,
exert yourself, make an effort, strain, passage, passageway, shaft, subway,
strive, struggle, venture. 2 try some- underpass. • vb burrow, dig, ex-
thing'new. appraise, inf check out, cavate, mine, penetrate.
evaluate, examine, experiment with,
inf have a go at, inf have a stab at, turbulent adj 1 agitated, boisterous,
investigate, test, try out, undertake, confused, disordered, excited, hectic,
trying > a n n o y in g , t ir e s o m e , try passionate, restless, seething, turbid,
someone’s patience > a n n o y . unrestrained, violent, volatile, wild.
2 a turbulent crowd, badly-behaved,
tub n barrel, bath, butt, cask, drum, disorderly, lawless, obstreperous,
keg, pot, vat. riotous, rowdy, undisciplined, un-
tube n capillary, conduit, cylinder, ruly. 3 turbulent weather, blustery,
duct, hose, main, pipe, spout, tub- bumpy, choppy (sea), rough, stormy,
ing. tempestuous, violent, wild, windy.
tuck vb cram, gather, insert, push, Opp CALM.
put away, shove, stuff, tuck in r> e a t . turf n grass, grassland, green, lawn,
tuft n bunch, clump, cluster, tuffet,
poet sward.
tussock. turgid adj affected, bombastic,
flowery, fulsome, grandiose, high-
tug vb drag, draw, haul, heave, jerk,
flown, overblown, pompous, preten-
lug, pluck, pull, tow, twitch, wrench,
tious, stilted, wordy. Opp a r t ic u l a t e .
inf yank.
turmoil n inf bedlam, chaos, com-
tumble vb 1 collapse, drop, fall, flop,
motion, confusion, disorder, dis-
pitch, roll, stumble, topple, trip up. turbance, ferment, inf hubbub, inf
2 tumble things into a heap, disarrange,
hullabaloo, pandemonium, riot, row,
dump, jumble, mix up, rumple,
rumpus, tumult, turbulence, unrest,
shove, spill, throw carelessly, toss.
upheaval, uproar, welter. Opp c a l m .
tumbledown adj badly maintained, turn n 1 circle, coil, curve, cycle, loop,
broken down, crumbling, decrepit, pirouette, revolution, roll, rotation,
derelict, dilapidated, ramshackle, spin, twirl, twist, whirl. 2 angle,
rickety, ruined, shaky, tottering. bend, change of direction, corner,
tumult n ado, agitation, chaos, com- deviation, inf dogleg, hairpin bend,
motion, confusion, disturbance, junction, loop, meander, reversal,
excitement, ferment, fracas, frenzy, shift, turning-point, inf U-turn,
hubbub, hullabaloo, rumpus, storm, zigzag. 3 your turn in a game, chance,
tempest, upheaval, uproar, welter. inf go, innings, opportunity, shot,
 451 tyrant
stint. 4 a comic turn. t> pe r f o r ma n c e . wreathe, wriggle, writhe, zigzag.
5 a nasty turn. t> il l n e s s . • vb 1 circle, 2 twist ropes, entangle, entwine, inter-
coil, curl, gyrate, hinge, loop, move twine, interweave, tangle. 3 twist a lid
in a circle, orbit, pivot, revolve, roll, off. jerk, wrench, wrest. 4 twist out
rotate, spin, spiral, swivel, twirl, of shape, buckle, contort, crinkle,
twist, whirl, wind, yaw. 2 bend, crumple, distort, screw up, warp,
change direction, comer, deviate, wrinkle. 5 twist meaning, alter, change,
divert, go round a comer, negotiate falsify, misquote, misrepresent,
a comer, steer, swerve, veer, wheel. twisted t> CONFUSED, PERVERTED, TWISTY,
3 turn a pumpkin into a coach, adapt,
alter, change, convert, make, mod- twisty adj bending, bendy, cir-
ify, remake, remodel, transfigure, cuitous, coiled, contorted, crooked,
transform. 4 turn to and fro. squirm, curving, curvy, inf in and out, in-
twist, wriggle, writhe, turn aside t> direct, looped, meandering, mis-
shapen, rambling, roundabout,
d e v ia t e , turn down t> r e je c t , turn into
serpentine, sinuous, snaking, tortu-
> BECOME, turn off t> d e v ia t e , d is c o n -
ous, twisted, twisting, inf twisting
n e c t , REPEL, turn on t> ATTRACT, CON-
and turning, winding, zigzag. Opp
NECT. turn out t> e x pe l , h a ppe n ,
STRAIGHT.
pr o d u c e , turn over t> c o n s id e r , o v e r -
t u r n . turn tail t> e s c a pe , turn up t> twitch n blink, convulsion, flutter,
ARRIVE, DISCOVER. jerk, jump, spasm, tic, tremor.
turning-point n crisis, crossroads, • vb fidget, flutter, jerk, jump, start,
new direction, revolution, watershed. tremble.
turnover n business, cash-flow, effi- two n couple, duet, duo, match, pair,
ciency, output, production, produc- twosome.
tivity, profits, revenue, throughput, type n 1 category, class, classifica-
yield. tion, description, designation, form,
twiddle vb fiddle with, fidget with, genre, group, kind, mark, set, sort,
fool with, mess with, twirl, twist. species, variety. 2 He was the very type
twig n branch, offshoot, shoot, spray, of evil, embodiment, epitome, ex-
sprig, sprout, stalk, stem, stick, ample, model, pattern, personifica-
sucker, tendril. tion, standard. 3 printed in large type.
characters, font, fount, lettering,
twilight n dusk, evening, eventide, letters, print, printing, typeface.
gloaming, gloom, halflight, nightfall,
sundown, sunset. typical adj 1 characteristic, dis-
twin adj balancing, corresponding,
tinctive, particular, representative,
double, duplicate, identical, indis- special. 2 a typical day. average,
tinguishable, inf look-alike, match- conventional, normal, ordinary,
ing, paired, similar, symmetrical. • n orthodox, predictable, standard,
clone, counterpart, double, duplicate, stock, unsurprising, usual. Opp
inf look-alike, match, pair, inf spit- UNUSUAL.
ting image. tyrannical adj absolute, authorit-
twirl vb 1 gyrate, pirouette, revolve, arian, autocratic, inf bossy, cruel,
rotate, spin, turn, twist, wheel, whirl, despotic, dictatorial, domineering,
wind. 2 twirl an umbrella, brandish, harsh, high-handed, illiberal, im-
twiddle, wave. perious, oppressive, overbearing,
ruthless, severe, totalitarian, tyran-
twist n 1 bend, coil, curl, kink, knot, nous, undemocratic, unjust. Opp
loop, tangle, turn, zigzag. 2 a twist to DEMOCRATIC, LIBERAL.
a story, revelation, surprise ending.
• vb 1 bend, coil, corkscrew, curl, tyrant n autocrat, despot, dictator,
curve, loop, revolve, rotate, screw, inf hard taskmaster, oppressor, slave-
spin, spiral, turn, weave, wind, driver. t> RULER.
ugly adj 1 deformed, disfigured, dis-
u unadventurous adj 1 cautious,
gusting, dreadful, frightful, ghastly, cowardly, spiritless, timid, unima-
grim, grisly, grotesque, gruesome, ginative. 2 an unadventurous life, clois-
hideous, horrible, inf horrid, ill- tered, limited, protected, sheltered,
favoured, loathsome, misshapen, unexciting. Opp a d v e n t u r o u s .
monstrous, nasty, objectionable, odi- unalterable adj > immu t a b l e .
ous, offensive, repellent, repulsive, unambiguous adj > d e f in it e .
revolting, shocking, sickening, terri-
unanimous adj u n it e d .
ble. 2 ugly furniture, displeasing,
inartistic, inelegant, plain, tasteless, unasked adj > u n in v it e d .
unattractive, unpleasant, unprepos- unassuming adj > m o d e s t .
sessing, unsightly. 3 an ugly mood. unattached adj autonomous, inf
angry, cross, dangerous, forbidding, available, free, independent, separ-
hostile, menacing, ominous, sinister, ate, single, uncommitted, unmar-
surly, threatening, unfriendly. Opp ried, inf unspoken for.
BEAUTIFUL. unattractive adj characterless,
ulterior adj concealed, covert, hid- colourless, displeasing, dull, inar-
den, personal, private, secondary, tistic, inelegant, nasty, objection-
secret, undeclared, underlying, able, inf off-putting, plain, repellent,
undisclosed, unexpressed. Opp o v e r t . repulsive, tasteless, uninviting, un-
ultimate adj 1 closing, concluding, pleasant, unprepossessing, unsightly.
eventual, extreme, final, furthest, > u g l y . Opp a t t r a c t iv e .
last, terminal, terminating. 2 ultimate unauthorized adj illegal, illegit-
truth, basic, fundamental, primary, imate, illicit, irregular, unapproved,
root, underlying. unlawful, unofficial. Opp o f f ic ia l .
umpire n adjudicator, arbiter, arbit- unavoidable adj certain, com-
rator, judge, linesman, moderator, pulsory, destined, fated, fixed,
official, inf ref, referee. ineluctable, inescapable, inevitable,
inexorable, mandatory, necessary,
unable adj impotent, incompetent, obligatory, predetermined, required,
powerless, unfit, unprepared, sure, unalterable.
unqualified. Opp a b l e .
unaware adj > ig n o r a n t .
unacceptable adj bad, forbidden,
unbalanced adj 1 asymmetrical,
illegal, improper, inadequate, inad-
irregular, lopsided, off-centre, shaky,
missible, inappropriate, inexcusable,
uneven, unstable, wobbly. 2 biased,
insupportable, intolerable, invalid,
bigoted, one-sided, partial, partisan,
taboo, unsatisfactory, unsuitable, prejudiced, unfair, unjust. 3 unbal-
wrong. Opp ACCEPTABLE. anced mind. > m a d .
unaccompanied adj alone, lone, unbearable adj insufferable, insup-
single-handed, sole, solo, unaided, portable, intolerable, overpowering,
unescorted. overwhelming, unacceptable, unen-
unaccountable adj t> in e x pl ic a b l e . durable. Opp TOLERABLE.
unaccustomed adj t> s t r a n g e . unbeatable adj > in v in c ib l e .
453 unconscious
unbecoming adj dishonourable, illiterate, Philistine, primitive, sav-
improper, inappropriate, indecorous, age, uncultured, uneducated, unen-
indelicate, offensive, tasteless, un- lightened, unsophisticated, wild. Opp
attractive, unbefitting, undigni- CIVILIZED.
fied, ungentlemanly, unladylike, unclean adj t> d ir t y .
unseemly, unsuitable. Opp d e c o r o u s .
unclear adj t> u n c e r t a in .
unbelievable adj t> in c r e d ib l e .
unclothed adj t> n a k e d .
unbelieving adj t> in c r e d u l o u s .
uncomfortable adj 1 bleak, cold,
unbend vb 1 straighten, uncurl, comfortless, cramped, hard, incon-
untwist. 2 loosen up, relax, rest, venient, lumpy, painful. 2 uncomfort-
unwind. able clothes, formal, restrictive, stiff,
unbending adj t> in f l e x ib l e . tight, tight-fitting. 3 an uncomfortable
unbiased adj balanced, disinter- silence, awkward, distressing, embar-
ested, enlightened, even-handed, fair, rassing, nervous, restless, troubled,
impartial, independent, just, neu- uneasy, worried. Opp c o mf o r t a b l e .
tral, non-partisan, objective, open- uncommon adj t> u n u s u a l .
minded, reasonable, inf straight, uncommunicative adj t> t a c it u r n .
unbigoted, undogmatic, unpreju- uncomplimentary adj censorious,
diced. Opp BIASED. critical, deprecatory, depreciatory,
unbreakable adj t> in d e s t r u c t ib l e . derogatory, disapproving, disparag-
unbroken adj t> c o n t in u o u s , w h o l e . ing, pejorative, scathing, slighting,
unfavourable, unflattering. t> r u d e .
uncalled-for adj t> u n n e c e s s a r y .
Opp COMPLIMENTARY.
uncared-for adj t> d e r e l ic t . uncompromising adj t> in f l e x ib l e .
uncaring adj t> c a l l o u s . unconcealed adj t> o b v io u s .
unceasing adj t> c o n t in u o u s . unconditional adj absolute, cat-
uncertain adj 1 ambiguous, egorical, complete, full, outright,
arguable, inf chancy, confusing, con- total, unequivocal, unlimited, un-
jectural, cryptic, enigmatic, equi- qualified, unreserved, unrestricted,
vocal, hazardous, hazy, inf iffy, wholehearted, inf with no strings
imprecise, incalculable, inconclusive, attached. Opp c o n d it io n a l .
indefinite, indeterminate, problem- uncongenial adj alien, antipathetic,
atical, puzzling, questionable, risky, disagreeable, incompatible, unat-
speculative, inf touch and go, un- tractive, unfriendly, unpleasant,
clear, unconvincing, undecided, un- unsympathetic. Opp c o n g e n ia l .
determined, unforeseeable, unknown,
unconquerable adj t> in v in c ib l e .
unresolved, woolly. 2 uncertain what
to believe, agnostic, ambivalent, doubt- unconscious adj 1 anaesthetized,
ful, dubious, inf hazy, insecure, inf inf blacked-out, comatose, concussed,
in two minds, self-questioning, un- inf dead to the world, insensible, inf
convinced, undecided, unsure, vague, knocked out, inf knocked silly, obli-
wavering. 3 an uncertain climate. vious, inf out for the count, sense-
changeable, erratic, fitful, incon- less, sleeping. 2 blind, deaf, ignorant,
stant, irregular, precarious, un- oblivious, unaware. 3 unconscious
predictable, unreliable, unsettled, humour, accidental, inadvertent,
variable. Opp c e r t a in . unintended, unintentional, unwit-
ting. 4 an unconscious reaction, auto-
unchanging adj t> c o n s t a n t .
matic, si gut, impulsive, instinctive,
uncharitable adj t> u n k in d . involuntary, reflex, spontaneous,
uncivilized adj anarchic, antisocial, unthinking. 5 an unconscious desire.
backward, barbarian, barbaric, bar- repressed, subconscious, subliminal,
barous, brutish, crude, disorganized, suppressed. Opp c o n s c io u s .
unconsciousness 454

unconsciousness n inf blackout, through, put up with, inf stand, sub-

coma, faint, oblivion, sleep, mit yourself to, suffer, withstand,
uncontrollable adj > u n d is c ipl in e d . underground adj 1 buried, hidden,
subterranean, sunken. 2 clandestine,
unconventional adj abnormal,
revolutionary, secret, subversive,
atypical, inf cranky, eccentric, exotic, unofficial, unrecognized.
futuristic, idiosyncratic, independ-
ent, inventive, non-conforming, non- undergrowth n brush, bushes,
standard, odd, off-beat, original, ground cover, plants, vegetation.
peculiar, progressive, revolutionary, undermine vb burrow under,
strange, surprising, unaccustomed, destroy, dig under, erode, excavate,
unorthodox, inf way-out, wayward, mine under, ruin, sabotage, sap, sub-
weird, zany. Opp c o n v e n t io n a l . vert, tunnel under, undercut,
unconvincing adj implausible, weaken, wear away.
improbable, incredible, invalid, underprivileged adj deprived, des-
spurious, unbelievable, unlikely. titute, disadvantaged, downtrodden,
Opp PERSUASIVE. impoverished, needy, oppressed.
uncooperative adj lazy, obstruct- > POOR. Opp PRIVILEGED.
ive, recalcitrant, selfish, unhelpful, undersea adj subaquatic, sub-
unwilling. Opp c o o pe r a t iv e . marine, underwater.
uncover vb bare, come across, understand vb 1 appreciate, appre-
detect, dig up, disclose, discover, dis- hend, be conversant with, inf catch
robe, exhume, expose, locate, reveal, on, comprehend, inf cotton on to,
show, strip, take the wraps off, decipher, decode, fathom, figure out,
undress, unearth, unmask, unveil, follow, gather, inf get, inf get to the
unwrap. Opp c o v e r . bottom of, grasp, interpret, know,
undamaged adj > pe r f e c t .
learn, make out, make sense of, mas-
ter, perceive, realize, recognize, see,
undefended adj defenceless, take in, inf twig. 2 understand animals.
exposed, helpless, insecure, un- be in sympathy with, empathize
armed, unfortified, unguarded, un- with, sympathize with.
protected, vulnerable, weaponless.
understanding n 1 ability, acumen,
Opp SECURE.
brains, cleverness, discernment,
undemanding adj > e a s y . insight, intellect, intelligence, judge-
undemonstrative adj > a l o o f . ment, penetration, perceptiveness,
percipience, sense, wisdom. 2 under-
underclothes plur n lingerie, inf
standing of a problem, appreciation,
smalls, underclothing, undergar-
apprehension, awareness, cognition,
ments, underthings, underwear, inf comprehension, grasp, knowledge.
undies, a bra, braces, brassiere, briefs,
3 understanding between people, accord,
camiknickers, corset, drawers, garter,
agreement, compassion, consensus,
girdle, knickers, panties, pantihose,
consent, consideration, empathy, fel-
pants, petticoat, slip, suspenders, tights,
low feeling, harmony, kindness,
trunks, underpants, underskirt, vest.
mutuality, sympathy, tolerance.
undercurrent n atmosphere, feel- 4 a formal understanding, arrange-
ing, hint, sense, suggestion, trace, ment, bargain, compact, contract,
undertone. deal, entente, pact, settlement,
underestimate vb belittle, depreci- treaty.
ate, dismiss, disparage, minimize, understate vb belittle, inf make
miscalculate, misjudge, underrate, light of, minimize, inf play down, inf
undervalue. Opp e x a g g e r a t e . soft-pedal. Opp e x a g g e r a t e .
undergo vb bear, be subjected to, undertake vb 1 agree, attempt, con-
endure, experience, go through, live sent, covenant, guarantee, pledge,
455 unexciting
promise, try. 2 undertake a task. off, take off your clothes, uncover
accept responsibility for, address, yourself, undressed adj > n a k e d .
approach, attend to, begin, com- undue adj > e x c e s s iv e .
mence, commit yourself to, cope
with, deal with, embark on, grapple undying adj t> e t e r n a l .
with, handle, manage, tackle, take uneasy adj anxious, apprehensive,
on, take up. awkward, concerned, distressed, dis-
undertaking n 1 affair, business, tressing, disturbed, edgy, fearful,
enterprise, project, task, venture. insecure, jittery, nervous, restive,
2 agreement, assurance, contract, restless, tense, troubled, uncomfort-
guarantee, pledge, promise, vow. able, unsettled, upsetting, worried.
undervalue vb belittle, depreciate, uneducated adj > ig n o r a n t .
dismiss, disparage, minimize, mis- unemotional adj apathetic, clinical,
calculate, misjudge, underestimate, cold, cool, dispassionate, frigid,
underrate. hard-hearted, heartless, impassive,
underwater adj subaquatic, sub- indifferent, objective, unfeeling,
marine, undersea. unmoved, unresponsive. Opp e m o -
t io n a l .
undeserved adj unearned, unfair,
unjustified, unmerited, unwar- unemployed adj jobless, laid off, on
ranted. the dole, out of work, redundant, inf
undesirable adj > o b je c t io n a b l e .
resting, unwaged. > id l e .
undisciplined adj anarchic, chaotic, unendurable adj > u n b e a r a b l e .
disobedient, disorderly, disorganized, unenthusiastic adj > a pa t h e t ic ,
intractable, rebellious, uncontrol- u n in t e r e s t e d .
lable, uncontrolled, ungovernable, unequal adj 1 different, differing,
unmanageable, unruly, unsystem- disparate, dissimilar, uneven, vary-
atic, untrained, wild, wilful. Opp ing. 2 unequal treatment, biased, pre-
OBEDIENT. judiced, unjust. 3 an unequal contest.
undiscriminating adj t> impe r c e pt - ill-matched, one-sided, unbalanced,
IVE. uneven, unfair. Opp e q u a l , f a ir .
undisguised adj t> o b v io u s . unequalled adj incomparable, inim-
undistinguished adj t> o r d in a r y . itable, matchless, peerless, supreme,
surpassing, un-matched, unparal-
undo vb 1 detach, disconnect, disen-
leled, unrivalled, unsurpassed.
gage, loose, loosen, open, part, separ-
ate, unbind, unbuckle, unbutton, unethical adj t> immo r a l .
unchain, unclasp, unclip, uncouple, uneven adj 1 bent, broken, bumpy,
unfasten, unfetter, unhook, unleash, crooked, irregular, jagged, jerky, pit-
unlock, unpick, unpin, unscrew, ted, rough, rutted, undulating, wavy.
unseal, unshackle, unstick, untether, 2 an uneven rhythm, erratic, fitful, fluc-
untie, unwrap, unzip. 2 undo some- tuating, inconsistent, - spasmodic,
one’s good work, annul, cancel out, unpredictable, variable, vaiying. 3 an
destroy, mar, nullify, quash, reverse, uneven load, asymmetrical, lopsided,
ruin, spoil, undermine, vitiate, wipe unsteady. 4 uneven contest, illmatched,
out, wreck. one-sided, unbalanced, unequal,
undoubted adj > in d is pu t a b l e . unfair. Opp e v e n .
undoubtedly adv certainly, def- uneventful adj > u n e x c it in g .
initely, doubtless, indubitably, of unexciting adj boring, dreary, dry,
course, surely, undeniably, unques- dull, humdrum, monotonous, pre-
tionably. dictable, quiet, repetitive, routine,
undress vb disrobe, divest yourself, soporific, straightforward, tedious,
inf peel off, shed your clothes, strip trite, uneventful, uninspiring, unin-
unexpected 456

teresting, vapid, wearisome. > o r d in - unjustifiable, unpardonable, unwar-

a r y . Opp EXCITING. rantable. Opp f o r g iv a b l e .
unexpected adj accidental, chance, unfortunate adj > u n l u c k y .
fortuitous, sudden, surprising, unfriendly adj aggressive, aloof,
unforeseen, unhoped-for, unlooked- antagonistic, antisocial, cold, cool,
for, unplanned, unpredictable, detached, disagreeable, distant, for-
unusual. Opp pr e d ic t a b l e . bidding, frigid, haughty, hostile, ill-
unfair adj t> u n ju s t . disposed, ill-natured, impersonal,
unfaithful adj deceitful, disloyal, indifferent, inhospitable, menacing,
double-dealing, duplicitous, faithless, nasty, obnoxious, offensive, remote,
false, fickle, inconstant, perfidious, reserved, rude, sour, standoffish, inf
traitorous, treacherous, treasonable, starchy, stern, supercilious, threat-
unreliable, untrue, untrustworthy. ening, unapproachable, uncivil,
Opp FAITHFUL. uncongenial, unenthusiastic, un-
forthcoming, unkind, unneigh-
unfaithfulness n 1 duplicity, per- bourly, unresponsive, unsociable,
fidy, treacheiy, treason. 2 adulteiy, unsympathetic, unwelcoming. Opp
infidelity. f r ie n d l y .
unfaipiliar adj > s t r a n g e .
ungainly adj > a w k w a r d .
unfashionable adj dated, obsolete,
ungodly adj > ir r e l ig io u s .
old-fashioned, inf out, outmoded,
passe, superseded, unstylish. Opp ungovernable adj > u n d is c ipl in e d .
FASHIONABLE. ungrateful adj displeased, ill-
unfasten vb > u n d o . mannered, rude, selfish, unappreci-
ative, unthankful. Opp g r a t e f u l .
unfavourable adj 1 adverse, attack-
ing, contraiy, critical, disapproving, unhappy adj 1 dejected, depressed,
discouraging, hostile, ill-disposed, dispirited, down, downcast, gloomy,
inauspicious, negative, opposing, miserable, mournful, sorrowful.
uncomplimentaiy, unfriendly, un- > s a d . 2 unhappy about losing, bad-
helpful, unkind, unpromising, un- tempered, disaffected, discontented,
propitious, unsympathetic. 2 an disgruntled, disillusioned, displeased,
unfavourable reputation, bad, undesir- dissatisfied, inf fed up, inf grumpy,
able, unenviable, unsatisfactoiy. Opp morose, sulky, sullen, unsatisfied.
FAVOURABLE. 3 an unhappy choice. > u n s a t is f a c t o r y .
unfeeling adj > c a l l o u s . unhealthy adj 1 ailing, debilitated,
unfinished adj imperfect, incom-
delicate, diseased, feeble, frail,
plete, rough, sketchy, uncompleted, infected, infirm, inf poorly, sick,
unpolished. Opp pe r f e c t . sickly, suffering, unwell, valetudin-
ary, weak. t> il l . 2 unhealthy condi-
unfit adj 1 ill-equipped, inadequate, tions. deleterious, detrimental, dirty,
incapable, incompetent, unsatisfact- harmful, insalubrious, insanitaiy,
oiy, useless. 2 unfit for family viewing. noxious, polluted, unhygienic, un-
improper, inappropriate, unbecom- wholesome. Opp HEALTHY.
ing, unsuitable, unsuited. 3 an unfit
athlete, feeble, flabby, out of condi- unheard-of adj > u n u s u a l .
tion, unhealthy. > il l . Opp f it . unhelpful adj disobliging, inconsid-
unflagging adj > t ir e l e s s . erate, negative, slow, uncivil, unco-
operative, unwilling. Opp h e l pf u l .
unflinching adj > r e s o l u t e .
unhygienic adj > u n h e a l t h y .
unforeseen adj > u n e x pe c t e d .
unidentifiable adj anonymous,
unforgettable adj > me mo r a b l e . camouflaged, disguised, hidden, un-
unforgivable adj inexcusable, mor- detectable, unidentified, unknown,
tal (sin), reprehensible, shameful, unrecognizable. Opp id e n t if ia b l e .
 457
united
unidentified adj anonymous, incog- uninterested adj apathetic, bored,
nito, mysterious, nameless, unfamil- incurious, indifferent, lethargic, pas-
iar, unknown, unmarked, unnamed, sive, phlegmatic, unconcerned, unen-
unrecognized, unspecified. Opp s pe - thusiastic, uninvolved, unresponsive.
c if ic . Opp INTERESTED.
uniform adj consistent, even, homo- uninteresting adj boring, dreary,
geneous, identical, indistinguishable, dry, dull, flat, monotonous, obvious,
predictable, regular, same, similar, predictable, tedious, unexciting,
single, standard, unbroken, unvar- uninspiring, vapid, wearisome.
ied, unvarying. Opp d if f e r e n t . • n cos- > ORDINARY. Opp INTERESTING.
tume, livery, outfit. uninterrupted adj > c o n t in u o u s .
unify vb amalgamate, bring together, uninvited adj 1 unasked, unbidden,
coalesce, combine, consolidate, fuse, unwelcome. 2 an uninvited comment.
harmonize, integrate, join, merge, gratuitous, unsolicited, voluntary.
unite, weld together. Opp s e pa r a t e .
uninviting adj > u n a t t r a c t iv e .
unimaginative adj banal, boring,
cliched, derivative, dull, hackneyed, union n 1 alliance, amalgamation,
inartistic, insensitive, obvious, ordin- association, coalition, confederation,
ary, prosaic, stale, trite, ugly, unin- conjunction, federation, integration,
spired, uninteresting, unoriginal. Opp joining together, merger, unanimity,
IMAGINATIVE. unification, unity. 2 amalgam, blend,
combination, combining, compound,
unimportant adj ephemeral, for- fusion, grafting, marrying, mixture,
gettable, immaterial, inconsequen- synthesis, welding. 3 marriage, mat-
tial, inconsiderable, inessential, rimony, partnership, wedlock.
insignificant, irrelevant, fightweight,
unique adj distinctive, incompar-
minor, negligible, peripheral, petty,
secondary, slight, trifling, trivial, able, lone, inf one-off, peculiar, peer-
valueless, worthless. > s ma l l . Opp less, inf second to none, single,
IMPORTANT. singular, unequalled, unparalleled,
unrepeatable, unrivalled.
uninhabitable adj condemned, in
unit n component, constituent, ele-
bad repair, unliveable, unusable. Opp
ment, entity, item, module, part,
HABITABLE.
piece, portion, section, segment,
uninhabited adj abandoned, whole.
deserted, desolate, empty, tenantless, unite vb ally, amalgamate, associate,
uncolonized, unoccupied, unpeopled, blend, bring together, coalesce, col-
unpopulated, untenanted, vacant. laborate, combine, commingle, con-
uninhibited adj abandoned, candid, federate, connect, consolidate,
casual, easygoing, frank, informal, conspire, cooperate, couple, federate,
natural, open, outgoing, outspoken, fuse, go into partnership, harmonize,
relaxed, spontaneous, unbridled, incorporate, integrate, interlock,
unconstrained, unrepressed, unre- join join forces, link, link up, many,
served, unrestrained, unselfcon- merge, mingle, mix, stick together,
scious, Wild. Opp REPRESSED. tie up, unify, weld together. > ma r r y .
Opp SEPARATE.
unintelligent adj s t u pid .
united adj agreed, allied, coherent,
unintelligible adj > in c o m pr e h e n s - collective, common, concerted, co-
ib l e .
ordinated, corporate, harmonious,
unintentional adj accidental, for- integrated, joint, like-minded,
tuitous, inadvertent, involuntary, mutual, inf of one mind, shared, inf
unconscious, unintended, unplanned, solid, unanimous, undivided. Opp
unwitting. Opp in t e n t io n a l . d is u n it e d , be united > a g r e e .
unity 458

unity n accord, agreement, coher- unlawful adj il l e g a l .

ence, concord, consensus, harmony, unlikely adj 1 dubious, farfetched,
integrity, like-mindedness, oneness, implausible, improbable, incred-
rapport, solidarity, unanimity, ible, suspect, suspicious, inf tall
wholeness. Opp d is u n it y . (story), unbelievable, unconvincing,
universal adj all-embracing, all- unthinkable. 2 an unlikely possibility.
round, boundless, common, com- distant, doubtful, faint, inf outside,
prehensive, cosmic, general, global, remote, slight. Opp l ik e l y .
international, omnipresent, pan- unlimited adj bo u n d l es s.
demic, prevailing, prevalent, total, unload vb disburden, discharge, drop
ubiquitous, unbounded, unlimited, off, inf dump, empty, offload, take
widespread, worldwide. off, unpack. Opp l o a d .
universe n cosmos, creation, the unloved adj abandoned, discarded,
heavens, old use macrocosm. forsaken, hated, loveless, lovelorn,
unjust adj biased, bigoted, indefens- neglected, rejected, spumed,
ible, inequitable, one-sided, partial, uncared-for, unvalued, unwanted.
partisan, prejudiced, undeserved, Opp LOVED.
unfair^ unjustified, unlawful, unmer- unlucky adj 1 accidental, calam-
ited, unreasonable, unwarranted, itous, chance, disastrous, dreadful,
wrong, wrongful. Opp j u s t . tragic, unfortunate, untimely, un-
unjustifiable adj excessive, immod- welcome. 2 an unlucky person, inf
erate, indefensible, inexcusable, accident-prone, hapless, luckless,
unacceptable, unconscionable, un- unhappy, unsuccessful, wretched.
forgivable, unjust, unreasonable, 3 an unlucky number, cursed, ill-fated,
unwarranted. Opp ju s t if ia b l e . ill-omened, ill-starred, inauspicious,
jinxed, ominous, unfavourable. Opp
unkind adj abrasive, inf beastly,
LUCKY.
callous, caustic, cold-blooded, dis-
courteous, disobliging, hard, hard- unmanageable adj > u n d is c ipl in e d .
hearted, harsh, heartless, hurtful, unmarried adj inf available, celibate,
ill-natured, impolite, inconsid- inf free, single, unwed, unmarried
erate, inhuman, inhumane, insensi- person bachelor, celibate, spinster.
tive, malevolent, malicious, mean,
unmentionable adj t> t a b o o .
merciless, nasty, pitiless, relent-
less, rigid, rough, ruthless, sadistic, unmistakable adj t> d e f in it e , o b v i -
savage, selfish, severe, sharp, spite- o u s.
ful, stem, tactless, thoughtless, un- unnamed adj t> u n id e n t if ie d .
caring, uncharitable, unchristian, unnatural adj 1 abnormal, bizarre,
unfeeling, unfriendly, unpleasant, eccentric, eerie, extraordinary, fan-
unsympathetic, unthoughtful, vic- tastic, freak, freakish, inexplicable,
ious. t> ANGRY, CRITICAL, CRUEL. Opp
magic, magical, odd, outlandish,
KIND.
preternatural, queer, strange, super-
unknown adj 1 anonymous, dis- natural, unaccountable, uncanny,
guised, incognito, mysterious, name- unusual, weird. 2 unnatural feelings.
less, strange, unidentified, unnamed, callous, cold-blooded, cruel, hard-
unrecognized, unspecified. 2 an hearted, heartless, inhuman, in-
unknown country, alien, foreign, humane, monstrous, perverse,
uncharted, undiscovered, unex- perverted, sadistic, savage, stony-
plored, unfamiliar, unmapped. 3 an hearted, unfeeling, unkind. 3 unnat-
unknown actor, humble, insignificant, ural behaviour, actorish, affected,
little-known, lowly, obscure, undis- bogus, contrived, fake, feigned,
tinguished, unheard-of, unimport- forced, insincere, laboured, man-
ant. Opp FAMOUS. nered, inf out of character, overdone,
 459
unpunctual
inf phoney, pretended, inf pseudo, inf tractive, uncouth, undesirable,
put on, self-conscious, stagey, stiff, unfriendly, unkind, unpalatable,
stilted, theatrical, uncharacteristic, unsavoury, unwelcome, upsetting,
unspontaneous. 4 unnatural mater- vexing, vicious, vile, vulgar. > b a d .
ials. artificial, fabricated, imitation, Opp pl e a s a n t .
man-made, manufactured, simu-
unpopular adj despised, disliked,
lated, synthetic. Opp n a t u r a l .
friendless, hated, ignored, infin bad
unnecessary adj dispensable, odour, minority (interests), out of
excessive, expendable, extra, ines- favour, rejected, shunned, unfash-
sential, needless, nonessential, ionable, unloved, unwanted. Opp po p -
redundant, supererogatory, super- ul ar .
fluous, surplus, uncalled-for, unjus-
tified, unneeded, unwanted, useless. unpredictable adj changeable, sur-
Opp NECESSARY. prising, uncertain, unexpected,
unforeseeable, variable. Opp pr e -
unobtrusive adj > in c o n s pic u o u s . d ic t a b l e .
unofficial adj friendly, informal, inf
unprejudiced adj > u n b ia s e d .
off the record, private, secret, un-
authorized, unconfirmed, undocu- unpremeditated adj > s po n t a n e o u s .
mented, unlicensed. Opp o f f ic ia l . unprepared adj inf caught napping,
unorthodox adj > u n c o n v e n t io n a l . caught out, ill-equipped, surprised,
unpaid adj 1 due, outstanding, taken off-guard, unready. Opp r e a d y .
owing, payable, unsettled. 2 unpaid unpretentious adj humble, mod-
work, honorary, unremunerative, est, plain, simple, straightforward,
unsalaried, voluntary. unaffected, unassuming, unostenta-
unpalatable adj disgusting, dis- tious, unsophisticated. Opp pr e t e n -
tasteful, inedible, nasty, nauseating, t io u s .
inf off, rancid, sickening, sour, taste- unproductive adj 1 fruitless,
less, unacceptable, unappetizing, futile, ineffective, pointless, unprof-
uneatable, unpleasant. Opp pa l a t a b l e . itable, unrewarding, useless, value-
unparalleled adj > u n e q u a l l e d . less, worthless. 2 an unproductive
unpardonable adj t> u n f o r g iv a b l e . garden, arid, barren, infertile, sterile,
unplanned adj > s po n t a n e o u s . unfruitful. Opp PRODUCTIVE.
unpleasant adj abhorrent, abom- unprofessional adj amateurish,
inable, antisocial, appalling, atro- casual, incompetent, inefficient,
cious, awful, bad-tempered, beastly, inexpert, lax, negligent, shoddy,
bitter, coarse, crude, despicable, inf sloppy, unethical, unfitting, un-
detestable, diabolical, dirty, dis- principled, unseemly, unskilful,
agreeable, disgusting, displeasing, unskilled, unworthy. Opp pr o f e s s io n a l .
distasteful, dreadful, evil, execrable, unprofitable adj futile, lossmaking,
fearful, fearsome, filthy, foul, fright- pointless, uncommercial, uneco-
ful, ghastly, grim, grisly, gruesome, nomic, ungainful, unproductive,
harsh, hateful, inf hellish, hideous, unremunerative, unrewarding, worth-
horrible, horrid, horrifying, im- less. Opp PROFITABLE.
proper, indecent, inhuman, irk-
unprovable adj doubtful, inconclus-
some, loathsome, inf lousy,
malevolent, malicious, mucky, nasty, ive, questionable, undemonstrable,
unsubstantiated, unverifiable. Opp
nauseating, objectionable, obnox-
ious, odious, offensive, inf off- PROVABLE, PROVEN.
putting, repellent, repugnant, unpunctual adj behindhand,
repulsive, revolting, rude, shocking, belated, delayed, detained, last-
sickening, sickly, sordid, sour, spite- minute, late, overdue, tardy, unreli-
ful, squalid, terrible, ugly, unat- able. Opp PUNCTUAL.
unravel 460

unravel vb disentangle, free, solve, sad (state of affairs), unacceptable,

sort out, straighten out, undo, unhappy, unsatisfying, inf wretched.
untangle. Opp SATISFACTORY.
unreal adj chimerical, false, fanciful, unscrupulous adj amoral, con-
illusory, imaginary, imagined, make- scienceless, corrupt, inf crooked, cun-
believe, nonexistent, phantasmal, inf ning, dishonest, dishonourable,
pretend, inf pseudo, sham. > h y po - immoral, improper, self-interested,
t h e t ic a l . Opp REAL. shameless, inf slippery, sly, uncon-
unrealistic adj 1 inaccurate, non-
scionable, unethical, untrustworthy.
representational, unconvincing, Opp SCRUPULOUS.
unlifelike, unnatural, unrecogniz- unseemly adj > u n b e c o m in g .
able. 2 unrealistic ideas, delusory, unseen adj > in v is ib l e .
fanciful, idealistic, impossible, unselfish adj altruistic, caring, char-
impracticable, impractical, over- itable, considerate, disinterested,
ambitious, quixotic, romantic, silly, generous, humanitarian, kind, lib-
visionary, unreasonable, unwork- eral, magnanimous, open-handed,
able. 3 unrealistic prices. > e x c e s s iv e . philanthropic, public-spirited, self-
Opp r e a l is t ic . effacing, selfless, self-sacrificing,
unreasonable adj > ir r a t io n a l . thoughtful, ungrudging, unstinting.
unrecognizable adj t> u n id e n t if i - Opp SELFISH.
a bl e. unsightly adj ugl y.
unrelated adj 1 different, independ- unskilful adj amateurish, bungled,
ent, unconnected, unlike. 2 > ir r e l - clumsy, crude, incompetent, inept,
e v a n t . Opp RELATED. inexpert, maladroit, inf rough and
unreliable adj 1 deceptive, false, ready, shoddy, unprofessional. Opp
flimsy, implausible, inaccurate, mis- SKILFUL.
leading, suspect, unconvincing. unskilled adj inexperienced, unquali-
2 unreliable friends, changeable, dis- fied, untrained. Opp s k il l e d .
reputable, fallible, fickle, incon- unsociable adj > u n f r ie n d l y .
sistent, irresponsible, treacher-
unsophisticated adj artless, child-
ous, undependable, unpredictable,
like, guileless, ingenuous, innocent,
unsound, unstable, untrustworthy.
lowbrow, naive, plain, provincial,
Opp r e l ia b l e .
simple, simple-minded, straightfor-
unrepentant adj brazen, confirmed, ward, unaffected, uncomplicated,
conscienceless, hardened, impenit- unostentatious, unpretentious, unre-
ent, incorrigible, incurable, invet- fined, unworldly. Opp s o ph is t ic a t e d .
erate, irredeemable, shameless,
unsound adj > w e a k .
unapologetic, unashamed, unblush-
ing, unreformable, unregenerate. unspeakable adj dreadful, indes-
Opp REPENTANT. cribable, inexpressible, nameless,
unutterable.
unripe adj green, immature, sour,
unready. Opp r ipe . unspecified adj > u n id e n t if ie d .
unrivalled adj > u n e q u a l l e d . unstable adj capricious, changeable,
fickle, inconsistent, inconstant, mer-
unruly adj > u n d is c ipl in e d . curial, shifting, unpredictable,
unsafe adj > d a n g e r o u s . unsteady, variable, volatile. Opp
unsatisfactory adj defective, defi- STABLE.
cient, disappointing, displeasing, unsteady adj 1 flimsy, frail, insec-
dissatisfying, faulty, frustrating, ure, precarious, rickety, inf rocky,
imperfect, inadequate, incompetent, shaky, tottering, unbalanced, unsafe,
inefficient, inferior, insufficient, lack- unstable, wobbly. 2 changeable,
ing, not good enough, poor, inf erratic, inconstant, intermittent.
461 unwilling
irregular, variable. 3 an unsteady light. uncombed, ungroomed, unkempt.
flickering, fluctuating, quavering, Opp TIDY.
quivering, trembling, tremulous, untie vb cast off (boat), disentangle,
wavering. Opp s t e a d y . free, loosen, release, unbind, undo,
unsuccessful adj 1 abortive, failed, unfasten, unknot, untether.
fruitless, futile, ill-fated, ineffective,
untried adj experimental, innov-
ineffectual, loss-making, sterile,
atoiy, new, novel, unproved, un-
unavailing, unlucky, unproductive,
tested. Opp ESTABLISHED.
unprofitable, unsatisfactory, useless,
vain, worthless. 2 unsuccessful contest- untroubled adj carefree, peaceful,
ants. beaten, defeated, foiled, hapless, straightforward, undisturbed, unin-
losing, luckless, vanquished. Opp s u c - terrupted, unruffled.
c essf u l . untrue adj t> f a l s e .
unsuitable adj ill-chosen, ill-judged, untrustworthy adj > d is h o n e s t .
ill-timed, inapposite, inappropriate,
incongruous, inept, irrelevant, untruthful adj > l y in g .
mistaken, unbefitting, unfitting, unused adj blank, clean, fresh,
unhappy, unsatisfactoiy, unseason- intact, mint (condition), new, pristine,
able, unseemly, untimely. Opp s u it - unopened, untouched, unworn. Opp
a bl e. USED.
unsure adj > u n c e r t a in . unusual adj abnormal, atypical, curi-
unsurpassed adj > u n e q u a l l e d . ous, inf different, exceptional, extra-
unsuspecting adj > c r e d u l o u s . ordinary, inf freakish, inf funny,
irregular, odd, out of the ordinaiy,
unsympathetic adj apathetic, cool, peculiar, queer, rare, remarkable,
cold, dispassionate, hardhearted, singular, strange, surprising, uncom-
heartless, impassive, indifferent, mon, unconventional, unexpected,
insensitive, neutral, pitiless, unfamiliar, inf unheard-of, inf
reserved, ruthless, stony, stony- unique, unnatural, unorthodox,
hearted, unaffected, uncaring, untypical, unwonted. Opp u s u a l .
uncharitable, unconcerned, unfeel-
ing, uninterested, unkind, unmoved, unutterable adj > in d e s c r ib a b l e .
unpitying, unresponsive. Opp s y m - unwanted adj > u n n e c e s s a r y .
pa t h e t ic .
unwarranted adj > u n ju s t if ia b l e .
unsystematic adj anarchic, chaotic,
unwary adj > c a r e l e s s .
confused, disorderly, disorganized,
haphazard, illogical, jumbled, unwavering adj > r e s o l u t e .
muddled, inf shambolic, inf sloppy, unwelcome adj disagreeable, unac-
unmethodical, unplanned, unstruc- ceptable, undesirable, uninvited,
tured, untidy. Opp s y s t e ma t ic . unpopular, unwanted. Opp w e l c o me .
unthinkable adj > in c o n c e iv a b l e . unwell adj il l .
unthinking adj > t h o u g h t l e s s .
unwholesome adj > u n h e a l t h y .
untidy adj 1 careless, chaotic, clut-
unwieldy adj awkward, bulky,
tered, confused, disorderly, disorga-
clumsy, cumbersome, inconvenient,
nized, haphazard, inf higgledy-
piggledy, in disarray, jumbled, ungainly, unmanageable. Opp h a n d y ,
littered, inf messy, muddled, inf PORTABLE.
shambolic, slapdash, inf sloppy, unwilling adj averse, backward, dis-
slovenly, inf topsyturvy, unsystem- inclined, grudging, half-hearted, hes-
atic, upsidedown. 2 untidy hair. itant, ill-disposed, indisposed, lazy,
bedraggled, blowzy, dishevelled, dis- loath, opposed, reluctant, resistant,
ordered, rumpled, scruffy, shabby, slow, uncooperative, unenthusiastic,
tangled, tousled, uncared-for, unhelpful. Opp w il l in g .
unwise 462

unwise adj in/daft, foolhardy, fool- minded, honest, honourable, incor-

ish, ill-advised, ill-judged, illogical, ruptible, just, moral, principled,
imperceptive, impolitic, imprudent, righteous, inf straight, true, trust-
inadvisable, indiscreet, inexperi- worthy, upstanding, virtuous. • n
enced, injudicious, irrational, column, pole, post, vertical.
irresponsible, mistaken, obtuse, per- uproar n in/bedlam, brawling, chaos,
verse, rash, reckless, senseless, short- clamour, commotion, confusion, din,
sighted, silly, stupid, thoughtless, disorder, disturbance, furore, in/hub-
unintelligent, unreasonable. Opp bub, in/hullabaloo, in/a madhouse,
WISE. noise, outburst, outcry, pande-
unworldly adj > s pir it u a l . monium, inf racket, riot, row, inf
unworthy adj contemptible, despic- ructions, in/rumpus, tumult, turbu-
able, discreditable, dishonourable, lence, turmoil.
disreputable, ignoble, inappropriate, uproot vb deracinate, destroy, elim-
mediocre, second-rate, shameful, inate, eradicate, extirpate, get rid of,
substandard, undeserving, unsuit- inf grub up, pull up, remove, root
able. Opp WORTHY. out, tear up, weed out.
unwritten adj oral, spoken, verbal, upset vb 1 capsize, destabilize, over-
inf wo’rd-of-mouth. Opp w r it t e n . turn, spill, tip over, topple. 2 upset a
unyielding adj in f l e x ib l e .
plan, affect, alter, change, confuse,
defeat, disorganize, disrupt, hinder,
upbringing n breeding, bringing-up, interfere with, interrupt, jeopardize,
care, education, instruction, nurture, overthrow, spoil. 3 upset feelings.
raising, rearing, teaching, training. agitate, alarm, annoy, disconcert,
update vb amend, bring up to date, dismay, distress, disturb, excite,
correct, modernize, review, revise. fluster, frighten, grieve, irritate, of-
upgrade vb enhance, expand, fend, perturb, inf rub up the wrong
improve, make better. way, ruffle, scare, unnerve, worry.
upheaval n chaos, commotion, con- upside-down adj inverted, in/topsy-
cision, disorder, disruption, disturb- turvy, upturned, wrong way up.
ance, revolution, in/to-do, turmoil. upstart n Fr nouveau riche, social
uphill adj arduous, difficult, exhaust- climber, in/yuppie.
ing, gruelling, hard, laborious, stiff, up-to-date adj 1 advanced, current,
strenuous, taxing, tough. latest, modern, new, present-day,
uphold vb back, champion, defend, recent. 2 contemporary, fashionable,
endorse, maintain, preserve, protect, in/in, modish, stylish, in/trendy. Opp
stand by, support, sustain. OLD-FASHIONED.
upkeep n care, conservation, keep, upward adj ascending, going up, ris-
maintenance, operation, preserva- ing, uphill. Opp d o w n w a r d .
tion, running, support. urban adj built-up, densely popu-
uplifting adj civilizing, edifying, edu- lated, metropolitan, suburban. Opp
cational, enlightening, ennobling, RURAL.
enriching, humanizing, improving, urge n compulsion, craving, desire,
spiritual. Opp s h a me f u l . drive, eagerness, hunger, impetus,
upper adj elevated, higher, raised, impulse, inclination, instinct, inf
superior, upstairs. itch, longing, pressure, thirst, wish,
yearning, inf yen. • vb accelerate,
uppermost adj dominant, highest, advise, advocate, appeal to, beg,
loftiest, supreme, top, topmost. beseech, in/chivvy, compel, counsel,
upright adj i erect, on end, perpen- drive, inf egg on, encourage, entreat,
dicular, vertical. 2 an upright judge. exhort, force, goad, impel, implore,
conscientious, fair, good, high- importune, incite, induce, invite,
463 utter
move on, nag, persuade, plead with, tool, convenient, effective, efficient,
press, prod, prompt, propel, push, handy, powerful, practical, product-
recommend, solicit, spur, stimulate. ive, utilitarian. 3 a useful player, cap-
Opp DISCOURAGE. able, competent, effectual, proficient,
urgent adj 1 acute, compelling, com- skilful, successful, talented. Opp u s e -
pulsive, dire, essential, exigent, high- l ess.
priority, immediate, imperative, useless adj 1 fruitless, futile, hope-
important, inescapable, instant, less, pointless, unavailing, unprof-
necessary, pressing, top-priority, itable, unsuccessful, vain, worthless.
unavoidable. 2 an urgent cry for help. 2 inf broken down, inf clapped out,
eager, earnest, forceful, importunate, dead, dud, impractical, ineffective,
insistent, persistent, persuasive, inefficient, unusable. 3 a useless
solicitous. player, incapable, incompetent, inef-
usable adj acceptable, current, fit to fectual, lazy, unhelpful, unskilful,
use, functional, functioning, operat- unsuccessful, untalented. Opp u s e f u l .
ing, operational, serviceable, valid, usual adj accepted, accustomed,
working. average, common, conventional, cus-
use n advantage, application, benefit, tomaiy, everyday, expected, familiar,
employment, function, necessity, general, habitual, natural, normal,
need, inf point, profit, purpose, use- official, ordinary, orthodox, pre-
fulness, utility, value, worth. • vb dictable, prevalent, recognized,
1 administer, apply, deal with, regular, routine, standard, stock, tra-
employ, exercise, exploit, handle, ditional, typical, unexceptional,
make use of, manage, operate, put to unsurprising, well-known, wide-
use, utilize, wield, work. 2 consume, spread, wonted. Opp u n u s u a l .
drink, eat, exhaust, expend, spend, usurp vb appropriate, assume, com-
use up, waste, wear out. mandeer, seize, steal, take, take over.
used adj cast-off, inf hand-medown, utensil n appliance, device, gadget,
second-hand, soiled. Opp u n u s e d . implement, instrument, machine,
useful adj 1 advantageous, benefi- tool.
cial, constructive, good, helpful, utter vb articulate, inf come out with,
invaluable, positive, profitable, sal- express, pronounce, voice. > s pe a k ,
utaiy, valuable, worthwhile. 2 a useful TALK.
 V
vacancy n job, opening, place, posi- 2 a vain attempt, abortive, fruitless,
tion, post, situation. futile, ineffective, pointless, sense-
vacant adj 1 available, bare, blank, less, unavailing, unproductive, unre-
clear, empty, free, hollow, open, warding, unsuccessful, useless,
unfilled, unused, usable, void. worthless. Opp s u c c e s s f u l .
2 abandoned, deserted, uninhabited, valiant adj bold, brave, courageous,
unoccupied, untenanted. 3 a vacant doughty, gallant, heroic, plucky, stal-
look, absent-minded, abstracted, wart, stout-hearted, valorous. Opp
blank, deadpan, dreamy, expression- COWARDLY.
less, fa'r-away, fatuous, inattentive, valid adj acceptable, allowed,
vacuous. Opp BUSY. approved, authentic, authorized, Lat
vacaie vb abandon, depart from, bona fide, convincing, current,
desert, evacuate, get out of, give up, genuine, lawful, legal, legitimate,
leave, quit, withdraw from. official, permissible, permitted,
vacuous adj apathetic, blank, proper, ratified, rightful, sound, suit-
empty-headed, expressionless, inane, able, usable. Opp in v a l id .
mindless, uncomprehending, unin- validate vb authenticate, authorize,
telligent, vacant. > s t u pid . Opp a l e r t . certify, endorse, legalize, legitimize,
vacuum n emptiness, space, void, make valid, ratify.
vagary n caprice, fancy, fluctuation, valley n canyon, chasm, coomb, dale,
quirk, uncertainty, unpredictability, defile, dell, dingle, glen, gorge, gulch,
inf ups and downs, whim. gully, hollow, pass, ravine, vale.
vagrant n beggar, destitute person, valour n braveiy, courage, pluck,
inf down-and-out, homeless person,
valuable adj 1 costly, dear, expens-
itinerant, tramp, traveller, vagabond,
wanderer, wayfarer. ive, generous, irreplaceable, pre-
cious, priceless, prized, treasured,
vague adj 1 ambiguous, ambivalent, valued. 2 valuable advice, advant-
broad, confused, diffuse, equivocal, ageous, beneficial, constructive,
evasive, general, generalized, impre- esteemed, helpful, invaluable, posi-
cise, indefinable, indefinite, inexact,
tive, profitable, useful, worthwhile.
loose, nebulous, uncertain, unclear,
Opp WORTHLESS.
undefined, unspecific, unsure, inf
woolly. 2 amorphous, blurred, dim, value n 1 cost, price, worth. 2 ad-
hazy, ill-defined, indistinct, misty, vantage, benefit, importance, merit,
shadowy, unrecognizable. 3 absent- significance, use, usefulness. • vb
minded, careless, disorganized, for- 1 assess, estimate the value of,
getful, inattentive, scatter-brained, evaluate, price, inf put a figure
thoughtless. Opp d e f in it e . on. 2 appreciate, care for, cherish,
vain adj 1 arrogant, inf bigheaded, esteem, inf have a high regard for,
boastful, inf cocky, conceited, egot- inf hold dear, love, prize, respect,
istical, haughty, narcissistic, proud, treasure.
self-important, self-satisfied, inf vandal n barbarian, delinquent,
stuck-up, vainglorious. Opp m o d e s t . hooligan, looter, marauder, Philis-
465 vein
tine, raider, ruffian, savage, thug, monumental, never-ending, titanic,
trouble-maker. tremendous, unbounded, unlimited,
vanish vb clear, clear off, disappear, voluminous, wide. > b ig . Opp s ma l l .
disperse, dissolve, dwindle, evap- vault n basement, cavern, cellar,
orate, fade, go away, melt away, pass. crypt, repository, strongroom, under-
Opp APPEAR. croft. • vb bound over, clear, hurdle,
vanity n arrogance, inf bigheaded- jump, leap, leapfrog, spring over.
ness, conceit, egotism, narcissism, veer vb change direction, dodge,
pride, self-esteem. swerve, tack, turn, wheel.
vaporize vb diy up, evaporate, turn vegetable adj growing, organic. • n
to vapour. □ artichoke, asparagus, aubergine, bean,
vapour n exhalation, fog, fumes, gas, beet, beetroot, broad bean, broccoli, Brus-
haze, miasma, mist, smoke, steam. sels sprout, butter bean, cabbage, carrot,
variable adj capricious, changeable, cauliflower, celeriac, celery, chicory, cour-
erratic, fickle, fitful, fluctuating, gette, cress, cucumber, garlic, kale,
fluid, inconsistent, inconstant, mer- kohlrabi, leek, lettuce, marrow, mush-
curial, mutable, protean, shifting, room, onion, parsnip, pea, pepper,
temperamental, uncertain, unpre- potato, pumpkin, radish, runner bean,
dictable, unreliable, unstable, salsify, shallot, spinach, sugar beet,
unsteady, inf up-and-down, vacillat- swede, sweetcorn, tomato, turnip, water-
ing, varying, volatile, wavering. Opp cress, zucchini.
INVARIABLE. vegetate vb be inactive, do nothing,
variation n alteration, change, inf go to seed, idle, lose interest,
conversion, deviation, difference, stagnate.
discrepancy, diversification, elab- vegetation n foliage, greenery,
oration, modification, permutation, growing things, growth, plants,
variant. undergrowth, weeds.
variety n 1 alteration, change, dif- vehement adj animated, ardent,
ference, diversity, unpredictability, eager, enthusiastic, excited, fervent,
variation. 2 array, assortment, blend, fierce, forceful, heated, impassioned,
collection, combination, jumble, intense, passionate, powerful,
medley, miscellany, mixture, multi- strong, urgent, vigorous, violent. Opp
plicity. 3 brand, breed, category, APATHETIC.
class, form, kind, make, sort, species, vehicle n conveyance. □ ambulance,
strain, type. inf buggy, bulldozer, bus, cab, camper,
various adj assorted, contrasting, caravan, carriage, cart, old use chara-
different, differing, dissimilar, banc, chariot, coach, dump truck, dust-
diverse, heterogeneous, miscellan- cart, estate car, fire-engine, float, gig,
eous, mixed, inf motley, multifari- go-kart, hearse, horse-box, jeep, jugger-
ous, several, sundry, varied, varying. naut, lorry, minibus, minicab, inf motor,
Opp SIMILAR. motor car, old use omnibus, pantech-
vary vb 1 change, deviate, differ, fluc- nicon, patrol-car, pick-up, removal van,
tuate, go up and down, vacillate. rickshaw, scooter, sedan-chair, side-car,
2 vary your speed, adapt, adjust, alter, sledge, snowplough, stage-coach, steam-
convert, modify, reset, switch, trans- roller, tank, tanker, taxi, traction-engine,
form, upset. Opp s t a b il iz e , varied, tractor, trailer, tram, transporter, trap,
varying t> v a r io u s .
trolley-bus, truck, tumbrel, van, wagon, si
wheels. > c a r , c y c l e , t r a in , v e s s e l .
vast adj boundless, broad, colossal,
enormous, extensive, gigantic, great, veil vb camouflage, cloak, conceal,
huge, immeasurable, immense, in- cover, disguise, hide, mask, shroud.
finite, interminable, large, limitless, vein n 1 artery, blood vessel, capil-
mammoth, massive, measureless, lary. 2 mineral vein, bed, course,
veneer 466

deposit, line, lode, seam, stratum. ling, repetitious, talkative, voluble.

3 o MOOD. > WORDY. Opp CONCISE.
veneer n coating, covering, finish, verbosity n inf beating about the
bush, circumlocution, diffuse-
gloss, layer, surface. • vb > c o v e r .
ness, garrulity, long-windedness,
venerable adj aged, ancient, august, loquacity, periphrasis, prolixity,
dignified, esteemed, estimable, hon- repetition, verbiage, wordiness.
ourable, honoured, old, respectable,
respected, revered, reverenced, verdict n adjudication, assessment,
sedate, venerated, worshipped, conclusion, decision, finding, judge-
worthy of respect. ment, opinion, sentence.
venerate vb adore, esteem, hero- verge n bank, boundary, brim, brink,
worship, honour, idolize, look up to, edge, hard shoulder, kerb, lip, mar-
pay homage to, respect, revere, gin, roadside, shoulder, side, thresh-
reverence, worship. old, wayside.
verifiable adj demonstrable, prov-
vengeance n reprisal, retaliation,
retribution, revenge, inf tit for tat. able.
verify vb affirm, ascertain, attest to,
vengeful adj avenging, bitter, ran-
authenticate, bear witness to, check
corous, revengeful, spiteful, unfor- out, confirm, corroborate, demon-
giving, vindictive. Opp f o r g iv in g .
strate the truth of, establish, prove,
venom n poison, toxin, show the truth of, substantiate, sup-
venomous adj deadly, lethal, pois- port, uphold, validate, vouch for.
onous, toxic. verisimilitude n authenticity, real-
vent n aperture, cut, duct, gap, hole, ism.
vermin plur n parasites, pests,
opening, orifice, outlet, passage, slit,
slot, split. • vb articulate, express,vernacular adj common, everyday,
give vent to, let go, make known, indigenous, local, native, ordinary,
release, utter, ventilate, voice. popular, vulgar.
> SPEAK.
versatile adj adaptable, allpurpose,
ventilate vb aerate, air, freshen, oxy- all-round, flexible, gifted, multi-
genate. purpose, resourcefill, skilful, talented.
venture n enterprise, experiment, verse n lines, metre, rhyme, stanza.
gamble, risk, speculation, undertak- □ blank verse, Chaucerian stanza, cleri-
ing. • vb 1 bet, chance, dare, gamble, hew, couplet, free verse, haiku, hexa-
put forward, risk, speculate, stake, meter, limerick, ottava rima, pentameter,
wager. 2 venture out. dare to go, risk quatrain, rhyme royal, sestina, sonnet,
going. Spenserian stanza, terza rima, triolet,
venturesome adj adventurous, triplet, vers libre, villanelle. > po e m .
bold, courageous, daring, doughty, versed adj accomplished, com-
fearless, intrepid. petent, experienced, expert, know-
venue n location, meeting-place, ren- ledgeable, practised, proficient,
dezvous. skilled, taught, trained.
version n 1 account, description,
verbal adj 1 lexical, linguistic. 2 a
portrayal, reading, rendition, report,
verbal message, oral, said, spoken,
story. 2 adaptation, interpretation,
unwritten, vocal, wordof-mouth. Opp
WRITTEN. paraphrase, rendering, translation.
3 design, form, kind, mark, model,
verbatim adj exact, faithful, literal, style, type, variant.
precise, word for word. vertical adj erect, perpendicular,
verbose adj diffuse, garrulous, long- precipitous, sheer, upright. Opp
winded, loquacious, prolix, ramb- HORIZONTAL.
467 vicissitude
vertigo n dizziness, giddiness, light- sustainable, usable, workable. Opp
headedness. IMPRACTICAL.
very adv acutely, enormously, espe- vibrant adj alert, alive, dynamic, elec-
cially, exceedingly, extremely, tric, energetic, lively, living, pulsat-
greatly, highly, m/jolly, most, notice- ing, quivering, resonant, thrilling,
ably, outstandingly, particularly, throbbing, trembling, vibrating, viva-
really, remarkably, inf terribly, truly, cious. Opp LIFELESS.
uncommonly, unusually.
vibrate vb fluctuate, judder, oscil-
vessel n 1 > c o n t a in e r . 2 bark, boat, late, pulsate, quake, quiver, rattle,
craft, ship. □ aircraftcarrier, barge, resonate, reverberate, shake, shiver,
bathysphere, battleship, brigantine, cabin shudder, throb, tremble, wobble.
cruiser, canoe, catamaran, clipper,
coaster, collier, coracle, corvette, cruise- vibration n juddering, oscilla-
liner, cruiser, cutter, destroyer, dhow, tion, pulsation, quivering, rattling,
dinghy, dredger, dugout, ferry, freighter, resonance, reverberation, shaking,
frigate, galleon, galley, gondola, gun- shivering, shuddering, throbbing,
boat, houseboat, hovercraft, hydrofoil, trembling, tremor.
hydroplane, ice-breaker, junk, kayak, vicarious adj delegated, deputed,
ketch, landing-craft, launch, lifeboat, indirect, second-hand, surrogate.
lighter, lightship, liner, longboat, lugger,
vice n 1 badness, corruption, degen-
man-of-war, merchant ship, minesweeper,
eracy, degradation, depravity, evil,
motor boat, narrow-boat, oil-tanker, evil-doing, immorality, iniquity, lech-
packet-ship, paddle-steamer, pontoon,
ery, profligacy, promiscuity, sin,
power-boat, pram, privateer, punt, quin-
venality, villainy, wickedness, wrong-
quereme, raft, rowing-boat, sailing-boat, doing. 2 bad habit, blemish, defect,
sampan, schooner, skiff, sloop, smack, failing, fault, flaw, foible, imperfec-
speed-boat, steamer, steamship, sub- tion, shortcoming, weakness.
marine, tanker, tender, torpedo boat,
tramp steamer, trawler, trireme, troopship, vicinity n area, district, environs,
tug, warship, whaler, wind-jammer, locale, locality, neighbourhood, out-
yacht, yawl. skirts, precincts, proximity, purlieus,
region, sector, territoiy, zone.
vet vb inf check out, examine, invest-
igate, review, scrutinize. vicious adj 1 atrocious, barbaric,
veteran adj experienced, mature,
barbarous, beastly, bloodthirsty,
old, practised. • n experienced brutal, callous, cruel, diabolical,
soldier, ex-serviceman, ex-service- fiendish, heinous, hurtful, inhuman,
woman, old hand, old soldier, sur- merciless, monstrous, murderous,
pitiless, ruthless, sadistic, savage,
vivor.
unfeeling, vile, violent. 2 a vicious
veto n ban, block, embargo, prohibi- character, bad, inf bitchy, inf catty,
tion, proscription, refusal, rejection, depraved, evil, heartless, immoral,
inf thumbs down. • vb ban, bar, malicious, mean, perverted, ran-
blackball, block, disallow, dismiss, corous, sinful, spiteful, venomous,
forbid, prohibit, proscribe, quash, villainous, vindictive, vitriolic,
refuse, reject, rule out, say no to, wicked. 3 vicious animals, aggressive,
turn down, vote against. Opp a ppr o v e . bad-tempered, dangerous, ferocious,
vex vb in/aggravate, annoy, bother, fierce, snappy, untamed, wild. 4 a
displease, exasperate, harass, irritate, vicious wind, cutting, nasty, severe,
provoke, in/put out, trouble, upset, sharp, unpleasant. Opp g e n t l e .
worry. > a n g e r . vicissitude n alteration, change,
viable adj achievable, feasible, oper- flux, instability, mutability, muta-
able, possible, practicable, practical, tion, shift, uncertainty, unpre-
realistic, reasonable, supportable, dictability, variability.
victim 468

victim n 1 casualty, fatality, injured perous, red-blooded, robust, spirited,

person, patient, sufferer, wounded strenuous, strong, thriving, virile,
person. 2 sacrificial victim, martyr, vital, vivacious, zestful. Opp f e e b l e .
offering, prey, sacrifice. vigour n animation, dynamism,
victimize vb bully, cheat, discrim- energy, fitness, force, forcefulness,
inate against, exploit, intimidate, gusto, health, life, liveliness, might,
oppress, persecute, inf pick on, prey potency, power, robustness, spirit,
on, take advantage of, terrorize, tor- stamina, strength, verve, inf vim,
ment, treat unfairly, inf use. > c h e a t .
virility, vitality, vivacity, zeal, zest,
victor n champion, conqueror, vile adj bad, base, contemptible,
prizewinner, winner. Opp l o s e r . degenerate, depraved, despicable,
victorious adj champion, conquer- disgusting, evil, execrable, filthy,
ing, first, leading, prevailing, suc- foul, hateful, horrible, immoral,
cessful, top, top-scoring, triumphant, loathsome, low, nasty, nauseating,
unbeaten, undefeated, winning. Opp obnoxious, odious, offensive, per-
UNSUCCESSFUL. verted, repellent, repugnant, repuls-
victory n achievement, conquest, ive, revolting, sickening, sinful, ugly,
knockcrtit, mastery, success, superi- vicious, wicked.
ority, supremacy, triumph, inf walk- vilify vb abuse, calumniate, defame,
over, win. Opp DEFEAT. denigrate, deprecate, disparage,
vie vb compete, contend, strive, revile, inf run down, slander, inf
struggle. smear, -speak evil of, traduce, vitu-
view n 1 aspect, landscape, outlook, perate.
panorama, perspective, picture, villain n blackguard, criminal, evil-
prospect, scene, scenery, seascape, doer, malefactor, mischiefmaker,
spectacle, townscape, vista. 2 angle, miscreant, reprobate, rogue,
look, perspective, sight, vision. scoundrel, sinner, wretch. > c r im -
3 political views, attitude, belief, con- in a l .
viction, idea, judgement, notion, villainous adj bad, corrupt, crim-
opinion, perception, position, thought. inal, dishonest, evil, sinful, treacher-
• vb 1 behold, consider, contemplate, ous, vile. > WICKED.
examine, eye, gaze at, inspect,
observe, perceive, regard, scan, stare vindictive adj avenging, malicious,
at, survey, witness. 2 view TV. look nasty, punitive, rancorous, revenge-
at, see, watch. ful, spiteful, unforgiving, vengeful,
viewer n plur audience, observer, vicious. Opp f o r g iv in g .
onlooker, spectator, watcher, wit- vintage adj choice, classic, fine,
ness. good, high-quality, mature, mel-
viewpoint n angle, perspective, lowed, old, seasoned, venerable.
point of view, position, slant, stand- violate vb 1 breach, break, contra-
point. vene, defy, disobey, disregard, flout,
vigilant adj alert, attentive, awake, ignore, infringe, overstep, sin
careful, circumspect, eagle-eyed, against, transgress. 2 violate someone’s
observant, on the watch, on your privacy, abuse, desecrate, disturb,
guard, inf on your toes, sharp, wake- invade, profane. 3 [o/ men] violate a
ful, wary, watchful, wideawake. Opp woman, assault, attack, debauch,
NEGLIGENT. dishonour, force yourself on, rape,
vigorous adj active, alive, animated, ravish.
brisk, dynamic, energetic, fit, flour- violation n breach, contravention,
ishing, forceful, full-blooded, inf full defiance, flouting, infringement,
of beans, growing, hale and hearty, invasion, offence (against), trans-
healthy, lively, lusty, potent, pros- gression.
 469 vital
violent adj 1 acute, damaging, dan- viscous adj gluey, sticky, syrupy,
gerous, destructive, devastating, thick, viscid. Opp r u n n y .
explosive, ferocious, fierce, forceful, visible adj apparent, clear, conspicu-
furious, hard, harmful, intense, pow- ous, detectable, discernible, distinct,
erful, rough, ruinous, savage, severe, evident, manifest, noticeable, observ-
strong, swingeing, tempestuous, tur- able, obvious, open, perceivable,
bulent, uncontrollable, vehement, perceptible, plain, recognizable,
wild. 2 violent behaviour, barbaric, unconcealed, undisguised, unmis-
berserk, bloodthirsty, brutal, cruel, takable. Opp INVISIBLE.
desperate, frenzied, headstrong,
homicidal, murderous, riotous, vision n 1 eyesight, perception, sight.
rowdy, ruthless, uncontrolled, 2 apparition, chimera, day-dream,
unruly, vehement, vicious, wild. Opp delusion, fantasy, ghost, hallucina-
GENTLE. tion, illusion, mirage, phantasm,
phantom, spectre, spirit, wraith. 3 a
VIP n celebrity, dignitary, important man of vision, far-sightedness, fore-
person. sight, imagination, insight, spiritu-
ality, understanding.
virile adj derog macho, manly, mas-
culine, potent, vigorous. visionary adj dreamy, fanciful, far-
sighted, futuristic, idealistic, ima-
virtue n 1 decency, fairness, good- ginative, impractical, mystical,
ness, high-mindedness, honesty, prophetic, quixotic, romantic, specu-
honour, integrity, justice, morality, lative, transcendental, unrealistic,
nobility, principle, rectitude, Utopian. • n dreamer, idealist, mys-
respectability, righteousness, right- tic, poet, prophet, romantic, seer.
mindedness, sincerity, uprightness, visit n 1 call, old use sojourn, stay,
worthiness. 2 advantage, asset, good stop, visitation. 2 day out, excursion,
point, merit, quality, inf redeeming outing, trip. • vb call on, come to see,
feature, strength. 3 sexual virtue. inf descend on, inf drop in on, go to
abstinence, chastity, honour, inno- see, inf look up, make a visit to, pay
cence, purity, virginity. Opp v ic e . a call on, inf pop in on, stay with,
virtuoso n expert, genius, maestro, visit regularly > h a u n t .
prodigy, showman, inf wizard. visitor n 1 caller, plur company, •
> MUSICIAN. guest. 2 holiday-maker, sightseer,
tourist, traveller, tripper. 3 a visitor
virtuous adj blameless, chaste,
from abroad, alien, foreigner, migrant,
decent, ethical, exemplary, fair, God-
visitant.
fearing, good, derog goodygoody,
high-minded, high-principled, hon- visor n protector, shield, sun-shield,
est, honourable, innocent, irre- vista n landscape, outlook, pan-
proachable, just, law-abiding, moral, orama, prospect, scene, scenery, sea-
noble, praiseworthy, principled, scape, view.
pure, respectable, right, righteous, visualize vb conceive, dream up,
right-minded, sincere, derog smug, envisage, imagine, picture.
spotless, trustworthy, uncorrupted,
vital adj 1 alive, animate, animated,
unimpeachable, unsullied, upright,
dynamic, energetic, exuberant, life-
virginal, worthy. Opp w ic k e d .
giving, live, lively, living, spark-
virulent adj 1 dangerous, deadly, ling, spirited, sprightly, vigorous,
lethal, life-threatening, noxious, per- vivacious, zestful. Opp l if e l e s s . 2 vital
nicious, poisonous, toxic, venomous. information, compulsory, current,
2 virulent abuse, acrimonious, bitter, crucial, essential, fundamental, im-
hostile, malicious, malign, malig- perative, important, indispensable,
nant, mordant, nasty, spiteful, splen- mandatory, necessary, needed,
etic, vicious, vitriolic. relevant, requisite. Opp in e s s e n t ia l .
 470
vitality
vitality n animation, dynamism, volatile adj 1 explosive, sensitive,
energy, exuberance, inf go, life, live- unstable. 2 volatile moods, changeable,
liness, inf sparkle, spirit, sprightli- erratic, fickle, flighty, inconstant,
ness, stamina, strength, vigour, inf lively, mercurial, temperamental,
vim, vivacity, zest. unpredictable, inf up and down, vari-
vitriolic adj abusive, acid, biting,
able. Opp STABLE.
bitter, caustic, cruel, destructive, volley n barrage, bombardment,
hostile, hurtful, malicious, savage, burst, cannonade, fusillade, salvo,
scathing, vicious, vindictive, virulent. shower.
vituperate vb abuse, berate, calum- voluble adj chatty, fluent, garrulous,
niate, censure, defame, denigrate, glib, loquacious, talkative. > w o r d y .
deprecate, disparage, reproach,
revile, inf run down, slander, volume n 1 old use tome. > b o o k .
upbraid, vilify. 2 volume of a container, aggregate,
amount, bulk, capacity, dimensions,
vivacious adj animated, bubbly, mass, measure, quantity, size.
cheerful, ebullient, energetic, high-
spirited light-hearted, lively, merry, voluminous adj ample, billowing,
positive, spirited, sprightly. Opp bulky, capacious, cavernous, enorm-
LETHARGIC. ous, extensive, gigantic, great, huge,
vivid adj 1 bright, brilliant, colourful,
immense, large, mammoth, massive,
dazzling, fresh, derog gaudy, gay, roomy, spacious, vast. > b ig . Opp
gleaming, glowing, intense, rich, SMALL. -
shining, showy, strong, vibrant. 2 a voluntary adj 1 elective, free, gratu-
vivid description, clear, detailed, itous, optional, spontaneous, unpaid,
graphic, imaginative, lifelike, lively, willing. Opp c o mpu l s o r y . 2 a voluntary
memorable, powerful, realistic, strik- act. conscious, deliberate, intended,
ing. Opp LIFELESS. intentional, planned, premeditated,
vocabulary n 1 diction, lexis, words. Wilful. Opp INVOLUNTARY.
2 dictionary, glossary, lexicon, volunteer vb 1 be willing, offer, pro-
phrase book, word-list. pose, put yourself forward. 2 > e n l is t .
vocal adj 1 oral, said, spoken, sung,
voluptuous adj 1 hedonistic, luxuri-
voiced. 2 vocal in discussion, commun- ous, pleasure-loving, self-indulgent,
icative, forthcoming, loquacious, out- sensual, sybaritic, 2 voluptuous figure.
spoken, talkative, vociferous. Opp attractive, buxom, inf curvaceous,
TACITURN. desirable, erotic, sensual, inf sexy,
vocation n calling, career, employ- shapely, infwell-endowed.
ment, job, life’s work, occupation,
vomit vb be sick, inf bring up, dis-
profession, trade.
gorge, inf heave up, inf puke, regur-
vogue n craze, fad, fashion, inf latest gitate, retch, inf spew up, inf throw
thing, mode, rage, style, taste, trend, up-
in vogue > f a s h io n a b l e .
voracious adj avid, eager, fervid,
voice n accent, articulation, expres- gluttonous, greedy, hungry, insati-
sion, idiolect, inflexion, intonation, able, keen, ravenous, thirsty.
singing, sound, speaking, speech,
tone, utterance. • vb > s pe a k . vortex n eddy, spiral, whirlpool,
whirlwind.
void adj 1 blank, empty, unoccupied,
vacant. 2 a void contract, annulled, vote n ballot, election, plebiscite,
cancelled, inoperative, invalid, not poll, referendum, show of hands. • vb
binding, unenforceable, useless. • n ballot, cast your vote, vote for
blank, emptiness, nothingness, choose, elect, nominate, opt for, pick,
space, vacancy, vacuum. return, select, settle on.
471 vulnerable
vouch vb vouch for answer for, back, impolite, improper, indecent, in-
certify, endorse, guarantee, speak decorous, low, offensive, rude, un-
for, sponsor, support. couth, ungentlemanly, unladylike.
voucher n coupon, ticket, token, > o b s c e n e . Opp po l it e . 2 vulgar colour
vow n assurance, guarantee, oath, scheme, crude, gaudy, inartistic, in
pledge, promise, undertaking, word bad taste, inelegant, insensitive, low-
of honour. • vb declare, give an assur- brow, plebeian, tasteless, tawdry,
ance, give your word, guarantee, unrefined, unsophisticated. Opp
pledge, promise, swear, take an oath. TASTEFUL.
voyage n cruise, journey, passage. vulnerable adj 1 at risk, defence-
• vb circumnavigate, cruise, sail. less, exposed, helpless, unguarded,
t> TRAVEL. unprotected, weak, wide open. 2 eas-
vulgar adj 1 churlish, coarse, com- ily hurt, sensitive, thin-skinned,
mon, crude, foul, gross, ill-bred, tOUChy. Opp RESILIENT.
wad n bundle, lump, mass, pack,
w quish, remit, renounce, resign, sign
pad, plug, roll. away, surrender.
wadding n filling, lining, packing, wake n 1 funeral, vigil, watch. 2 wake
padding, stuffing. of a ship, path, track, trail, turbu-
wade vb ford, paddle, splash. > w a l k . lence, wash. • vb 1 arouse, awaken,
bring to life, call, disturb, galva-
waffle n evasiveness, padding, pre- nize, rouse, stimulate, stir, waken.
varication, prolixity, verbiage, wordi- 2 become conscious, bestir yourself,
ness. • vb inf beat about the bush, inf come to life, get up, rise, inf stir,
inf blather on, hedge, prattle, pre- wake up. wake up to > r e a l iz e , wak-
varicate. ing > CONSCIOUS.
waft Vb 1 be borne, drift, float, travel. wakeful adj alert, awake, insomniac,
2 bear, carry, convey, puff, transmit, inf on the qui vive, restless, sleepless,
transport.
walk n 1 bearing, carriage, gait,
wag vb bob, flap, move to and fro, stride. 2 constitutional, hike, old use
nod, oscillate, rock, shake, sway, promenade, ramble, saunter, stroll,
undulate, inf waggle, wave, inf wig- traipse, tramp, trek, trudge, inf turn.
gle. 3 a paved walk, aisle, alley, path, path-
wage n compensation, earnings, way, pavement. • vb 1 be a pedes-
emolument, honorarium, income, trian, travel on foot. □ amble, crawl,
pay, pay packet, recompense, remu- creep, dodder, inffoot-slog, hike, hobble,
neration, reward, salary, stipend. • vb limp, lope, lurch, march, mince, si mooch,
carry on, conduct, engage in, fight, pace, pad, paddle, parade, old use per-
prosecute, pursue, undertake. ambulate, plod, promenade, prowl,
wager vb bet, gamble. ramble, saunter, scuttle, shamble, shuffle,
slink, stagger, stalk, steal, step, inf
wail vb caterwaul, complain, cry,
stomp, stride, stroll, strut, stumble, swag-
howl, lament, moan, shriek, waul,
ger, tiptoe, inf toddle, totter, traipse,
weep, inf yowl.
tramp, trample, trek, troop, trot, trudge,
waist n middle, waistline, waddle, wade. 2 don’t walk on the flow-
waistband n belt, cummerbund, ers. stamp, step, trample, tread, walk
girdle. away with > w in . walk off with >
wait n delay, halt, hesitation, hiatus, s t e a l , walk out > q u it , walk out on
inf hold-up, intermission, interval, > DESERT.
pause, postponement, rest, stay, walker n hiker, pedestrian, rambler,
stop, stoppage. • vb 1 old use bide, wall n a barricade, barrier, bulkhead,
delay, halt, inf hang about, inf hang bulwark, dam, dike, divider, embank-
on, hesitate, hold back, keep still, ment, fence, fortification, hedge, obs-
linger, mark time, pause, remain, tacle, paling, palisade, parapet, parti-
rest, inf sit tight, stand by, stay, stop, tion, rampart, screen, sea-wall, stockade.
old use tarry. 2 wait at table, serve. wall in t> e n c l o s e .
waive vb abandon, cede, disclaim, wallet n notecase, pocketbook,
dispense with, forgo, give up, relin- pouch, purse.
473 wary
wallow vb 1 flounder, lie, pitch warehouse n depository, depot,
about, roll about, stagger about, store, storehouse.
tumble, wade, welter. 2 wallow in lux-
wares plur n commodities, goods,
ury. glory, indulge yourself, luxuri-
ate, revel, take delight.
manufactures, merchandise, pro-
duce, stock, supplies.
wan adj anaemic, ashen, bloodless,
colourless, exhausted, faint, feeble, warlike adj aggressive, bellicose, bel-
livid, pale, pallid, pasty, sickly, tired, ligerent, hawkish, hostile, militant,
waxen, worn. militaristic, pugnacious, warmon-
gering, warring.
wand n baton, rod, staff, stick.
warm adj 1 close, hot, lukewarm,
wander vb 1 drift, go aimlessly, subtropical, sultry, summery, tem-
meander, prowl, ramble, range, perate, tepid, warmish. 2 warm
roam, rove, saunter, stray, stroll, clothes, cosy, thermal, thick, winter,
travel about, walk, wind. 2 wander off woolly. 3 a warm welcome, affable,
course, curve, deviate, digress, drift, affectionate, ardent, cordial, emo-
err, go off at a tangent, stray, swerve, tional, enthusiastic, excited, fervent,
turn, twist, veer, zigzag, wandering friendly, genial, impassioned, kind,
> INATTENTIVE, NOMADIC. loving, passionate, sympathetic,
wane vb decline, decrease, dim, warm-hearted. Opp c o l d , u n f r ie n d l y . •
diminish, dwindle, ebb, fade, fail, inf vb heat, make warmer, melt, raise
fall off, grow less, lessen, peter out, the temperature of, thaw, thaw out.
shrink, subside, taper off, weaken. Opp COOL.
Opp STRENGTHEN.
warn vb admonish, advise, alert, cau-
want n 1 demand, desire, need, tion, counsel, forewarn, give a warn-
requirement, wish. 2 a want of ready ing, give notice, inform, notify, raise
cash, absence, lack, need. 3 war the alarm, remind, inf tip off.
against want, dearth, famine, hunger,
insufficiency, penury, poverty, pri- warning n 1 advance notice, augury,
vation, scarcity, shortage. • vb forewarning, hint, indication, notice,
1 aspire to, covet, crave, demand,
notification, omen, portent, pre-
desire, fancy, hanker after, inf have a monition, presage, prophecy, re-
minder, sign, signal, threat, inf
yen for, hunger for, in/itch for, like,
long for, miss, pine for, please, pre- tip-off, inf word to the wise. □ alarm,
fer, inf set your heart on, thirst after, alarm-bell, beacon, bell, fire-alarm,
thirst for, wish for, yearn for. 2 want flashing light, fog-horn, gong, hooter,
red light, siren, traffic-lights, whistle.
manners, be short of, lack, need,
2 let off with a warning, admonition,
require.
advice, caution, caveat, reprimand.
war n campaign, conflict, crusade,
fighting, hostilities, military action, warp vb become deformed, bend,
strife, warfare. □ ambush, assault, buckle, contort, curl, curve, deform,
attack, battle, blitz, blockade, bombard- distort, kink, twist.
ment, counter-attack, engagement, guer- warrant n authority, authorization,
rilla warfare, invasion, manoeuvres, certification, document, entitlement,
operations, resistance, siege, skirmish. guarantee, licence, permit, pledge,
wage war > f ig h t . sanction, search-warrant, voucher,
ward n charge, dependant, minor. • warranty. • vb > ju s t if y .
vb ward off avert, beat off, block, wary adj alert, apprehensive, attent-
chase away, check, deflect, fend off, ive, inf cagey, careful, cautious,
forestall, parry, push away, repel, cliaiy, circumspect, distrustful, heed-
repulse, stave off, thwart, turn aside, ful, observant, on the lookout, on
warder n gaoler, guard, jailer, keep- your guard, suspicious, vigilant,
er, prison officer. watchfill. Opp r e c k l e s s .
wash 474

wash n old use ablutions, bath, rinse, mind, protect, safeguard, shield,
shampoo, shower. • vb 1 clean, superintend, supervise, take charge
cleanse, flush, launder, mop, rinse, of, tend, keep watch > g u a r d , on
scrub, shampoo, sluice, soap down, the watch > w a t c h f u l , watch your
sponge down, swab down, swill, Step > BEWARE.
wipe. 2 bath, bathe, old use make watcher n plur audience, inf looker-
your toilet, perform your ablutions, on, observer, onlooker, spectator,
shower. 3 flie sea washes against the viewer, witness.
cliff, break, dash, flow, lap, pound, watchful adj attentive, eagleeyed,
roll, splash, wash your hands of t> heedful, observant, inf on the look-
ABANDON. out, inf on the qui vive, on the watch,
washing n cleaning, dirty clothes, quick, sharp-eyed, vigilant. > a l e r t .
laundry, inf the wash. Opp in a t t e n t iv e .
washout n debacle, disappointment, watchman n caretaker, custodian,
disaster, failure, inf flop. guard, lookout, night-watchman,
waste adj 1 discarded, extra, super- security guard, sentinel, sentiy,
fluous,,unprofitable, unusable, un- watch.
used, uhwanted, worthless. 2 waste water n 1 Adam’s ale, bath water,
land, bare, barren, derelict, empty, brine, distilled water, drinking
overgrown, run-down, uncared-for, water, mineral water, rainwater, sea
uncultivated, undeveloped, unpro- water, spa water, spring water, tap
ductive, wild. • n 1 debris, dregs, water. 2 lake, lido, ocean, pond, pool,
effluent, excess, garbage, junk, river, sea. t> s t r e a m . • vb damp,
leavings, inf left-overs, litter, offcuts, dampen, douse, drench, flood, hose,
refuse, remnants, rubbish, scrap, inundate, irrigate, moisten, saturate,
scraps, trash, unusable material, soak, souse, spray, sprinkle, wet.
unwanted material, wastage. 2 water down t> DILUTE.
extravagance, indulgence, overpro- waterfall n cascade, cataract, chute,
vision, prodigality, profligacy, self- rapids, torrent, white water.
indulgence. • vb be wasteful with,
dissipate, fritter, misspend, misuse, waterlogged adj full of water, sat-
over provide, si splurge, squander, urated, soaked.
use up, use wastefully. Opp c o n s e r v e . waterproof adj damp-proof, imper-
waste away become emaciated, meable, impervious, water-repellent,
become thin, become weaker, mope, water-resistant, watertight, weath-
pine, weaken. erproof. Opp l e a k y . • n cape, ground-
wasteful adj excessive, expensive,
sheet, inf mac, mackintosh,
extravagant, improvident, impru- sou ’wester.
dent, lavish, needless, prodigal, watertight adj hermetic, sealed,
profligate, reckless, spendthrift, SOUnd. t> WATERPROOF.
thriftless, uneconomical, unthrifty. watery adj 1 aqueous, bland, char-
Opp ECONOMICAL, wasteful person > acterless, dilute, diluted, fluid, li-
SPENDTHRIFT. quid, inf runny, inf sloppy, tasteless,
watch n chronometer, clock, digital thin, watered-down, weak, infwishy-
watch, stop-watch, timepiece, timer, washy. 2 watery eyes, damp, moist,
wrist-watch. • vb 1 attend, concen- tear-filled, tearful, inf weepy. > w e t .
trate, contemplate, eye, gaze, heed, wave n 1 billow, breaker, crest,
keep an eye open for, keep your eyes heave, ridge, ripple, roller, surf,
on, look at, mark, note, observe, pay swell, tidal wave, undulation,
attention, regard, see, spy on, stare, wavelet, in/white horse. 2 flourish,
take notice, view. 2 watch sheep, care gesticulation, gesture, shake, sign,
for, chaperon, defend, guard, keep signal. 3 a wave of enthusiasm, current,
an eye on, keep watch on, look after, flood, ground swell, outbreak, surge,
475 wealth
tide, upsurge. 4 a new wave, advance, debilitated, delicate, enervated, ex-
fashion, tendency, trend. 5 radio hausted, feeble, flabby, frail, help-
waves, pulse, vibration. • vb 1 billow, less, ill, infirm, listless, inf low, inf
brandish, flail about, flap, flourish, poorly, puny, sickly, slight, thin, tired
fluctuate, flutter, move to and fro, out, wasted, weakly, derog weedy. 3 a
ripple, shake, sway, swing, twirl, weak character, cowardly, fearful,
undulate, waft, wag, waggle, wiggle, impotent, indecisive, ineffective,
zigzag. 2 gesticulate, gesture, indic- ineffectual, irresolute, poor, power-
ate, sign, signal, wave aside > d is - less, pusillanimous, spineless, timid,
m is s . timorous, unassertive, weak-minded,
wavelength n channel, station, wimpish. 4 a weak position, defence-
waveband. less, exposed, unguarded, unpro-
tected, vulnerable. 5 weak excuses.
waver vb inf be in two minds, be hollow, lame, inf pathetic, shallow,
unsteady, change, falter, flicker, hes- unbelievable, unconvincing, unsatis-
itate, quake, quaver, quiver, shake, factory. 6 weak light, dim, distant, fad-
shiver, shudder, sway, teeter, ter- ing, faint, indistinct, pale, poor,
giversate, totter, tremble, vacillate, unclear, vague. 7 weak tea. dilute,
wobble. diluted, tasteless, thin, watery. Opp
wavy adj curling, curly, curving, STRONG.
heaving, rippling, rolling, sinuous,
weaken vb 1 debilitate, destroy,
undulating, up and down, winding,
dilute, diminish, emasculate, ener-
zigzag. Opp FLAT, STRAIGHT.
vate, enfeeble, erode, exhaust, im-
way n 1 advance, direction, headway, pair, lessen, lower, make weaker,
journey, movement, progress, route. reduce, ruin, sap, soften, thin down,
> r o a d . 2 distance, length, measure- undermine, inf water down. 2 abate,
ment. 3 a way to do something. become weaker, decline, decrease,
approach, avenue, course, fashion, dwindle, ebb, fade, flag, give in, give
knack, manner, means, method, way, sag, wane, yield. Opp s t r e n g t h e n .
mode, Lat modus operandi, path, pro-
cedure, process, system, technique. weakling n coward, inf milksop, inf
4 foreign ways, custom, fashion, habit, pushover, inf runt, inf softie, weak
Lat modus vivendi, practice, routine, person, inf weed, inf wimp.
style, tradition. 5 funny ways, charac- weakness n 1 inf Achilles’ heel,
teristic, eccentricity, idiosyncrasy, blemish, defect, error, failing, fault,
oddity, peculiarity. 6 in some ways. flaw, flimsiness, foible, fragility,
aspect, circumstance, detail, feature, frailty, imperfection, inadequacy,
particular, respect. mistake, shortcoming, softness, inf
waylay vb accost, ambush, await, weak spot. 2 debility, decrepitude,
buttonhole, detain, intercept, lie in delicacy, feebleness, impotence, inca-
wait for, pounce on, surprise. > pacity, infirmity, lassitude, vulner-
ATTACK. ability. t> il l n e s s . 3 a weakness for wine.
wayward adj disobedient, head- affection, fancy, fondness, inclina-
strong, obstinate, self-willed, stub- tion, liking, partiality, penchant,
born, uncontrollable, uncooperative, predilection, inf soft spot, taste. Opp
Wilful. > NAUGHTY. Opp COOPERATIVE. STRENGTH.
weak adj 1 breakable, brittle, wealth n 1 affluence, assets, capital,
decrepit, delicate, feeble, flawed, fortune, old use lucre, means, opu-
flimsy, fragile, frail, frangible, inad- lence, possessions, property, pros-
equate, insubstantial, rickety, shaky, perity, riches, old use substance. >
slight, substandard, tender, thin, mo n e y . Opp po v e r t y . 2 a wealth of infor-
unsafe, unsound, unsteady, unsub- mation. abundance, bounty, copious-
stantial. 2 weak in health, anaemic, ness, cornucopia, mine, plenty,
wealthy 476

profusion, store, treasury. Opp drawn, drowsy, enervated, ex-

SCARCITY. hausted, inf fagged, fatigued, fed up,
wealthy adj affluent, inf flush, inf flagging, foot-sore, impatient, jaded,
loaded, moneyed, opulent, joc pluto- inf jetlagged, si knackered, listless,
cratic, privileged, prosperous, rich, prostrate, inf shattered, inf sick (of),
inf well-heeled, well-off, well-to-do. sleepy, spent, tired out, travel-weary,
Opp po o r , wealthy person billion- wearied, inf whacked, worn out. Opp
f r e s h , l iv e l y . • vb 1 debilit-ate, drain,
aire, capitalist, millionaire, plutocrat,
tycoon. enervate, exhaust, fatigue, inf finish,
make tired, si knacker, overtire, sap,
weapon n bomb, gun, missile. □ air- inf shatter, inf take it out of, tax, tire,
gun, arrow, atom bomb, ballistic mis- wear out. Opp r e f r e s h . 2 become
sile, battering-ram, battleaxe, bayonet, bored, become tired, flag, grow
bazooka, blowpipe, blunderbuss, boom- weary, weaken.
erang, bow and arrow. bren-gun, can-
non, carbine, catapult, claymore, cosh, weather n climate, the elements,
crossbow, CS gas, cudgel, cutlass, dag- meteorological conditions, u blizzard,
ger, depth-charge, dirk, flame-thrower, breeze, cloud, cyclone. deluge, dew, down-
foils, grenade, old use halberd, harpoon, pour, drizzle, drought, fog, frost, gale,
H-bomb, howitzer, incendiary bomb, hail, haze, heatwave, hoar-frost, humc-
javelin, knuckleduster, lance, land-mine, ane, ice, lightning, mist, rain, rainbow,
laser beam, longbow, machete, machine- shower, sleet, slush, snow, snowstorm,
gun, mine, mortar, musket, mustard gas, squall, storm, sunshine, tempest, thaw,
napalm bomb, pike, pistol, pole-axe, thunder, tornado, typhoon, whirlwind,
rapier, revolver, rifle, rocket, sabre, scim- wind. • vb > s u r v iv e , under the
itar, shotgun, inf six-shooter, sling, weather i> ILL.
spear, sten-gun, stiletto, sub-machine- weave vb 1 braid, criss-cross,
gun, sword, tank, tear-gas, time- entwine, interlace, intertwine, inter-
bomb, tomahawk, tommy-gun, torpedo, weave, knit, plait, sew. 2 weave a
truncheon, warhead, water-cannon. story, compose, create, make, plot,
weapons armaments, armoury, put together. 3 weave through a crowd.
arms, arsenal, magazine, munitions, dodge, make your way, tack, inf twist
ordnance, weaponry. □ artillery, auto- and turn, wind, zigzag.
matic weapons, biological weapons, web n criss-cross, lattice, mesh, net,
chemical weapons, firearms, missiles, network.
nuclear weapons, small arms, strategic
weapons, tactical weapons. wedding n marriage, nuptials,
union.
wear vb 1 be dressed in, clothe your-
self in, don, dress in, have on, wedge vb cram, force, jam, pack,
present yourself in, put on, wrap up squeeze, stick.
in. 2 wear a smile, adopt, assume, weep vb bawl, inf blub, blubber, cry,
display, exhibit, show. 3 wears the inf grizzle, lament, mewl, moan, shed
carpet, damage, fray, injure, mark, tears, snivel, sob, wail, whimper,
scuff, weaken, wear away. 4 wear whine.
well, endure, last, inf stand the weigh vb 1 measure the weight of.
test of time, survive, wear away > 2 weigh evidence, assess, consider, con-
e r o d e , wear off d > s u b s id e , wear out template, evaluate, judge, ponder,
D> WEARY. reflect on, think about, weigh up.
wearisome adj boring, dreary, 3 evidence weighed with the jury, be
exhausting, monotonous, repetitive, important, carry weight, count, inf
tedious, tiring, wearying. > t r o u b l e - cut ice, have weight, matter, weigh
s o m e . Opp STIMULATING. down c> b u r d e n , weigh up l> EVALUATE.
weary adj bone-weary, inf dead beat, weighing-machine n balance,
inf dog-tired, inf done in, drained, scales, spring-balance, weighbridge.
 477 whine
weight n 1 avoirdupois, burden, urbane, well-brought-up, well-
density, heaviness, load, mass, pres- mannered. Opp RUDE.
sure, strain, tonnage. 2 My voice has
well-built adj athletic, big, brawny,
some weight, authority, credibility,
burly, hefty, muscular, powerful,
emphasis, force, gravity, importance, stocky, inf strapping, strong, sturdy,
power, seriousness, significance, sub- upstanding. Opp s ma l l .
stance, value, worth. • vb ballast,
bias, hold down, keep down, load, well-known adj celebrated, emin-
make heavy, weigh down. ent, familiar, famous, illustrious,
noted, derog notorious, prominent,
weird adj 1 creepy, eerie, ghostly, renowned. Opp u n k n o w n .
mysterious, preternatural, scaiy, inf
spooky, supernatural, unaccount- well-meaning adj good-natured,
able, uncanny, unearthly, unnatural. obliging, sincere, well-intentioned,
2 weird behaviour, abnormal, bizarre, well-meant. t> k in d . Opp u n k in d .
inf cranky, curious, eccentric, inf well-off adj affluent, comfortable,
funny, grotesque, odd, outlandish, moneyed, prosperous, rich, inf well-
peculiar, queer, quirky, strange, heeled, well-to-do. Opp po o r .
unconventional, unusual, inf way- well-spoken adj articulate, edu-
out, inf zany. Opp c o n v e n t io n a l , n a t - cated, polite, inf posh, refined, inf
ur al .
upper crust.
welcome adj acceptable, accepted, wet adj 1 awash, bedraggled,
agreeable, appreciated, desirable, clammy, damp, dank, dewy,
gratifying, much-needed, inf nice, drenched, dripping, moist, muddy,
pleasant, pleasing, pleasurable. Opp saturated, sloppy, soaked, soaking,
u n w e l c o me . • n greeting, hospitality, sodden, soggy, sopping, soused,
reception, salutation. • vb 1 give a spongy, submerged, waterlogged,
welcome to, greet, hail, receive. wateiy, wringing. 2 wet weather, driz-
2 They welcome criticism, accept, zly, humid, misty, pouring, rainy,
appreciate, approve of, delight in, showery, teeming. 3 wet paint, runny,
like, want. sticky, tacky. • n dampness, dew,
weld vb bond, cement, fuse, join, sol- drizzle, humidity, liquid, moisture,
der, unite. > f a s t e n . rain. • vb dampen, douse, drench,
irrigate, moisten, saturate, soak,
welfare n advantage, benefit, fe- spray, sprinkle, steep, water Opp d r y .
licity, good, happiness, health, inter-
wheel n circle, disc, hoop, ring.
est, prosperity, well-being.
n bogie, castor, cog-wheel, spinning-
well adj 1 fit, hale, healthy, hearty, wheel, steering-wheel. • vb change
infin fine fettle, lively, robust, sound, direction, circle, gyrate, move in
strong, thriving, vigorous. 2 AU is circles, pivot, spin, swerve, swing
well, all right, fine, inf OK, satisfac- round, swivel, turn, veer, whirl.
tory. • n fountain, shaft, source, wheeze vb breathe noisily, cough,
spring, waterhole, well-spring. □ arte- gasp, pant, puff.
sian well, borehole, gusher, oasis, oil well,
wishing-well. whereabouts n location, neigh-
bourhood, place, position, site, situ-
well-behaved adj cooperative, dis- ation, vicinity.
ciplined, docile, dutiful, good, hard-
working, law-abiding, manageable,1 whiff n breath, hint, puff, smell,
inf nice, polite, quiet, well-trained. > whim n caprice, desire, fancy,
OBEDIENT. Opp NAUGHTY. impulse, quirk, urge.
well-bred adj courteous, courtly, whine vb complain, ciy, inf grizzle,
cultivated, decorous, genteel, po- groan, moan, snivel, wail, weep,
lite, proper, refined, sophisticated, whimper, inf whinge.
whip 478

whip n birch, cane, cat, cat-o’-nine- insupportable, intolerable, irrespons-

tails, crop, horsewhip, lash, riding- ible, lawless, lost (soul), machia-
crop, scourge, switch. • vb 1 beat, vellian, malevolent, malicious,
birch, cane, flagellate, flog, horse- mischievous, murderous, naughty,
whip, lash, scourge, inf tan, thrash. > nefarious, offensive, perverted, ras-
h it . 2 beat, stir vigorously, whisk. cally, scandalous, shameful, sinful,
whirl vb circle, gyrate, pirouette, reel, sinister, spiteful, inf terrible, un-
revolve, rotate, spin, swivel, turn, godly, unprincipled, unregenerate,
twirl, twist, wheel. unrighteous, unscrupulous, vicious,
vile, villainous, violent, wrong.
whirlpool n eddy, maelstrom, swirl, > IRRELIGIOUS, OBSCENE. Opp MORAL,
vortex, whirl. wicked person > v il l a in .
whirlwind n cyclone, hurricane, tor-
wickedness n baseness, depravity,
nado, typhoon, vortex, waterspout.
enormity, guilt, heinousness, im-
whisk n beater, mixer. • vb beat, morality, infamy, iniquity, irrespon-
mix, stir, whip. sibility, old use knavery, malice,
whiskers plur n bristles, hairs, misconduct, naughtiness, sin, sin-
moustache. fulness, spite, turpitude, ungod-
whisper n 1 murmur, undertone. liness, unrighteousness, vileness,
2 a whisper of scandal, gossip, hearsay, villainy, wrong, wrongdoing. > e v il .
rumour. • vb breathe, hiss, murmur, wide adj 1 ample, broad, expansive,
mutter. > t a l k . extensive, large, panoramic, roomy,
whistle n hooter, pipe, pipes, siren. spacious, vast, yawning. 2 wide sym-
• vb blow, pipe. pathies. all-embracing, broad-minded,
catholic, comprehensive, eclectic,
white adj chalky, clean, cream, ivory,
milky, off-white, silver, snow-white, encyclopedic, inclusive, wide-ranging.
3 arms open wide, extended, open,
snowy, spotless, whitish. > pa l e .
outspread, outstretched. 4 a wide shot.
whiten vb blanch, bleach, etiolate, off-course, off-target. Opp n a r r o w .
fade, lighten, pale.
widen vb augment, broaden, dilate,
whole adj coherent, complete, distend, enlarge, expand, extend,
entire, full, healthy, in one piece, flare, increase, make wider, open
intact, integral, integrated, perfect, out, spread, stretch.
sound, total, unabbreviated, un-
abridged, unbroken, uncut, un- widespread adj common, endemic,
damaged, undivided, unedited, extensive, far-reaching, general,
unexpurgated, unharmed, unhurt, global, pervasive, prevalent, rife, uni-
uninjured, unscathed. Opp f r a g me n t - versal, wholesale. Opp r a r e .
a r y , INCOMPLETE. width n beam (of ship), breadth,
wholesale adj comprehensive, broadness, calibre (of gun), compass,
extensive, general, global, indis- diameter, distance across, extent,
criminate, mass, total, universal, girth, range, scope, span, thickness.
widespread. Opp l imit e d . wield vb 1 brandish, flourish, handle,
wholesome adj beneficial, good, hold, manage, ply, wave. 2 wield
healthful, health-giving, healthy, power, employ, exercise, exert, have,
hygienic, nourishing, nutritious, possess, use.
salubrious, sanitary. Opp u n h e a l t h y . wild adj 1 wild animals, free, undo-
wicked adj abominable, inf awful, mesticated, untamed. 2 a wild moor.
bad, base, beastly, corrupt, criminal, deserted, desolate, inf God-forsaken,
depraved, diabolical, dissolute, egre- natural, overgrown, remote, rough,
gious, evil, foul, guilty, heinous, rugged, uncultivated, unenclosed,
ill-tempered, immoral, impious, unfarmed, uninhabited, waste. 3 wild
incorrigible, indefensible, iniquitous, behaviour, aggressive, barbaric, bar-
 M3
winning
barous, berserk, boisterous, dis- wily adj artful, astute, canny, clever,
orderly, ferocious, fierce, frantic, crafty, cunning, deceptive, design-
hysterical, lawless, mad, noisy, ing, devious, disingenuous, furtive,
obstreperous, on the rampage, out guileful, ingenious, knowing, schem-
of control, rabid, rash, reckless, ing, shifty, shrewd, skilful, sly, tricky,
riotous, rowdy, savage, uncivilized, underhand. > d is h o n e s t . Opp s t r a ig h t -
uncontrollable, uncontrolled, un- for wa r d.
disciplined, ungovernable, unman-
win vb 1 be the winner, be victorious,
ageable, unrestrained, unruly,
carry the day, come first, conquer,
uproarious, violent. 4 wild weather.
overcome, prevail, succeed, triumph.
blustery, stormy, tempestuous, tur-
2 win a prize, achieve, acquire, inf
bulent, violent, windy. 5 wild enthusi-
carry off, collect, inf come away with,
asm. eager, excited, extravagant,
deserve, earn, gain, get, obtain, inf
uninhibited, unrestrained. 6 wild
pick up, receive, secure, inf walk
notions, crazy, fantastic, impetuous,
away with. Opp l o s e .
irrational, silly, unreasonable. 7 a
wild guess, inaccurate, random, wind n 1 air-current, blast, breath,
unthinking. Opp c a l m , c u l t iv a t e d , breeze, current of air, cyclone,
TAME. draught, gale, gust, hurricane, mon-
wilderness n desert, jungle, waste, soon, puff, squall, storm, tempest,
wasteland, wilds. tornado, whirlwind, poet zephyr.
2 wind in the stomach, flatulence, gas,
wile n artifice, gambit, inf game, heartburn. • vb bend, coil, curl,
machination, manoeuvre, plot, ploy, curve, furl, loop, meander, ramble,
ruse, stratagem, subterfuge, trick. reel, roll, slew, snake, spiral, turn,
wilful adj 1 calculated, conscious, twine, twist, inf twist and turn, veer,
deliberate, intended, intentional, pre- wreathe, zigzag, winding > t o r t u -
meditated, purposeful, voluntary. o u s . wind up > f in is h .
Opp a c c id e n t a l . 2 a wilful character, inf
window n □ casement, dormer, double-
bloody-minded, determined, dogged,
headstrong, immovable, intrans- glazed window, embrasure, fanlight,
igent, obdurate, obstinate, perverse, French window, light, oriel, pane, sash
inf pigheaded, refractoiy, self-willed, window, skylight, shop window, stained-
stubborn, uncompromising, unyield- glass window, windscreen.
ing, wayward. Opp a me n a b l e . windswept adj bare, bleak, desol-
will n aim, commitment, desire, ate, exposed, unprotected. > w in d y .
determination, disposition, inclina- windy adj blowy, blustery, boister-
tion, intent, intention, longing, pur- ous, breezy, draughty, fresh, gusty,
pose, resolution, resolve, volition, squally, stormy, tempestuous. >
will-power, wish. • vb 1 command, WINDSWEPT. Opp CALM.
encourage, force, influence, inspire,
persuade, require, wish. 2 will a for- wink vb 1 bat (eyelid), blink, flutter.
2 lights winked, flash, flicker, sparkle,
tune. bequeath, hand down, leave,
pass on, settle on. twinkle.
willing adj acquiescent, agreeable, winner n inf champ, champion,
amenable, assenting, complaisant, conquering hero, conqueror, first,
compliant, consenting, content, medallist, prizewinner, title-holder,
cooperative, disposed, docile, inf victor. Opp l o s e r .
game, happy, helpful, inclined, winning adj 1 champion, conquer-
pleased, prepared, obliging, ready, ing, first, leading, prevailing, suc-
well-disposed. > e a g e r . Opp u n w il l in g . cessful, top, top-scoring, triumphant,
wilt vb become limp, droop, fade, fail, unbeaten, undefeated, victorious.
flag, flop, languish, sag, shrivel, Opp u n s u c c e s s f u l . 2 a winning smile. >
weaken, wither. Opp t h r iv e . ATTRACTIVE.
wintry 480

wintry adj arctic, icy, snowy. > c o l d . witch n enchantress, gorgon, hag,
Opp SUMMERY. sibyl, sorceress, plur weird sisters.
wipe vb brush, clean, cleanse, dry, witchcraft n black magic, charms,
dust, mop, polish, rub, scour, sponge, enchantment, inf hocus-pocus, in-
swab, wash, wipe out > d e s t r o y . cantation, magic, inf mumbo-jumbo,
wire n 1 cable, coaxial cable, flex, necromancy, the occult, occultism,
lead, wiring. 2 cablegram, telegram. sorcery, spells, voodoo, witchery, wiz-
> COMMUNICATION. ardry.
wiry adj lean, muscular, sinewy, withdraw vb 1 abjure, call back, can-
strong, thin, tough. cel, inf go back on, recall, rescind,
retract, take away, take back. 2 with-
wisdom n astuteness, common draw from the fight, back away, back
sense, discernment, discrimination, down, back out, inf chicken out, inf
good sense, insight, judgement, judi- cry off, draw back, drop out, fall
ciousness, penetration, perceptive- back, move back, pull back, pull out,
ness, perspicacity, prudence, inf quit, recoil, retire, retreat, run
rationality, reason, sagacity, sapi- away, inf scratch, secede, shrink
ence? sense, understanding. > in t e l - back. > l e a v e . Opp a d v a n c e , e n t e r .
l ig e n c e .
3 withdraw teeth, extract, pull out,
wise adj 1 astute, discerning, enlight- remove, take out.
ened, erudite, fair, just, knowledge-
withdrawn adj bashful, diffident,
able, penetrating, perceptive,
distant, introverted, private, quiet,
perspicacious, philosophical, saga-
reclusive, remote, reserved, retiring,
cious, sage, sensible, shrewd, sound,
shy, silent, solitary, taciturn, timid,
thoughtful, understanding, well-
uncommunicative. Opp s o c ia b l e .
informed. > INTELLIGENT. 2 a wise
decision, advisable, appropriate, con- wither vb become diy, become limp,
sidered, diplomatic, expedient, dehydrate, desiccate, droop, diy out,
informed, judicious, politic, proper, diy up, fail, flag, flop, sag, shrink,
prudent, rational, reasonable, right. shrivel, waste away, wilt. Opp t h r iv e .
Opp u n w is e , wise person philo- withhold vb check, conceal, control,
sopher, pundit, sage. hide, hold back, keep back, keep
wish n aim, ambition, appetite, as- secret, repress, reserve, retain, sup-
piration, craving, desire, fancy, hanker- press. Opp GIVE.
ing, hope, inclination, inf itch,
withstand vb bear, brave, confront,
keenness, longing, objective, request,
cope with, defy, endure, fight, grap-
urge, want, yearning, inf yen. • vb
ple with, hold out against, last out
ask, choose, crave, desire, hope,
want, yearn, wish for > w a n t . against, oppose, inf put up with,
resist, stand up to, inf stick, survive,
wisp n shred, strand, streak. take, tolerate, weather (storm). Opp
wispy adj flimsy, fragile, gossamer, SURRENDER.
insubstantial, light, streaky, thin. Opp witness n bystander, eyewitness,
s u b s t a n t ia l . looker-on, observer, onlooker, spec-
wistful adj disconsolate, forlorn, tator, viewer, watcher. • vb attend,
melancholy, mournful, nostalgic, behold, be present at, look on, note,
regretful, yearning. > s a d . notice, observe, see, view, watch,
bear witness > t e s t if y .
wit n 1 banter, cleverness, comedy,
facetiousness, humour, ingenuity, witty adj amusing, clever, comic,
jokes, puns, quickness, quips, repar- droll, facetious, funny, humorous,
tee, witticisms, wordplay. > in t e l l i- ingenious, intelligent, jocular, quick-
g e n c e . 2 comedian, comic, humorist, witted, sarcastic, sharp-witted, wag-
jester, joker, wag. gish.
 481 work
wizard n enchanter, magician, wood n 1 afforestation, coppice,
magus, sorcerer, old use warlock, copse, forest, grove, jungle, orchard,
witch-doctor. plantation, spinney, thicket, trees,
wobble vb be unsteady, heave, move woodland, woods. 2 blockboard,
unsteadily, oscillate, quake, quiver, chipboard, deal, planks, plywood,
rock, shake, sway, teeter, totter, timber. □ balsa, beech, cedar, chestnut,
tremble, vacillate, vibrate, waver. ebony, elm, mahogany, oak, pine, rose-
wood, sandalwood, sapele, teak, walnut.
wobbly adj insecure, loose, rickety,
rocky, shaky, teetering, tottering, wooded adj afforested, poet bosky,
unbalanced, unsafe, unstable, forested, silvan, timbered, tree-
unsteady. Opp s t e a d y . covered, woody.
woe n affliction, anguish, dejection, wooden adj 1 ligneous, timber,
despair, distress, grief, heartache, wood. 2 wooden acting, dead, emo-
melancholy, misery, misfortune, sad- tionless, expressionless, hard, inflex-
ness, suffering, trouble, unhappi- ible, lifeless, rigid, stiff, stilted,
ness, wretchedness. t> s o r r o w . Opp unbending, unemotional, unnatural.
HAPPINESS. Opp LIVELY.
woodwind n □ bassoon, clarinet, cor
woebegone adj crestfallen, dejected,
anglais, flute, oboe, piccolo, recorder.
downhearted, forlorn, gloomy,
melancholy, miserable, inf sorry for woodwork n carpentry, joinery,
yourself, woeful, wretched. t> s a d . woody adj fibrous, hard, ligneous,
Opp CHEERFUL. tough. t> WOODEN.
woman n si bird, bride, old use dame, woolly adj 1 wool, woollen. 2 woolly
old use damsel, daughter, dowager, toy. cuddly, downy, fleecy, furry,
female, girl, girlfriend, derog hag, fuzzy, hairy, shaggy, soft. 3 woolly
derog harridan, housewife, hoyden, ideas, ambiguous, blurry, confused,
derog hussy, lady, lass, madam, hazy, ill-defined, indefinite, indis-
Madame, maid, old use maiden, tinct, uncertain, unclear, unfocused,
matriarch, matron, mistress, mother, vague.
derog termagant, derog virago, virgin, word n 1 expression, name, term.
widow, wife. 21> n e w s . 3 > pr o mis e . • vb articulate,
wonder n 1 admiration, amazement, express, phrase, word for word t>
astonishment, awe, bewilderment, VERBATIM.
curiosity, fascination, respect, rever- wording n choice of words, diction,
ence, stupefaction, surprise, won- expression, language, phraseology,
derment. 2 a wonder of science, marvel, phrasing, style, terminology.
miracle, phenomenon, prodigy, inf wordy adj chatty, diffuse, digressive,
sensation. • vb ask yourself, be curi- discursive, garrulous, long-winded,
ous, be inquisitive, conjecture, loquacious, pleonastic, prolix, ram-
marvel, ponder, question yourself, bling, repetitious, talkative, unstop-
speculate. t> t h in k , wonder at t> pable, verbose, voluble, inf windy.
ADMIRE. Opp CONCISE.
wonderful adj amazing, astonish- work n 1 inf donkey-work, drudgery,
ing, astounding, extraordinary, effort, exertion, inf fag, inf graft, inf
impressive, incredible, marvellous, grind, industry, labour, inf plod,
miraculous, phenomenal, remark- slavery, inf slog, inf spadework,
able, surprising, unexpected, old use strain, struggle, inf sweat, toil, old use
wondrous. Opp o r d in a r y . travail. 2 work to be done, assignment,
woo vb 1 si chat up, court, make love chore, commission, duty, errand,
to. 2 woo custom, attract, bring in, homework, housework, job, mission,
coax, cultivate, persuade, pursue, project, responsibility, task, under-
seek, try to get. taking. 3 regular work, business,
worker 482

calling, career, employment, job, tense, troubled, uncertain, uneasy,

livelihood, living, metier, occupation, unhappy, upset, vexed.
post, profession, situation, trade. • vb worry n 1 agitation, anxiety, appre-
1 inf beaver away, be busy, drudge, hension, disquiet, distress, fear,
exert yourself, inf fag, inf grind away, neurosis, perplexity, perturbation,
in/keep your nose to the grindstone, tension, unease, uneasiness. 2 afflic-
labour, make efforts, navvy, inf peg tion, annoyance, bother, burden,
away, inf plug away, inf potter about, care, concern, misgiving, problem,
inf slave, inf slog away, strain, strive, plur trials and tribulations, trouble,
struggle, sweat, toil, travail. 2 act, be vexation. • vb 1 agitate, annoy,
effective, function, go, operate, per- inf badger, bother, depress, dis-
form, run, succeed, thrive. 3 work quiet, distress, disturb, exercise, inf
slaves hard, drive, exploit, utilize, hassle, irritate, molest, nag, perplex,
working > e mpl o y e d , o pe r a t io n a l . perturb, pester, plague, tease,
work out > c a l c u l a t e , work up > threaten, torment, trouble, upset,
DEVELOP, EXCITE. vex. Opp r e a s s u r e . 2 worry about money.
worker n artisan, breadwinner, agonize, be anxious, be worried,
coolie,''craftsman, employee, old use brood, exercise yourself, feel uneasy,
hand, ‘ labourer, member of staff, fret.
navvy, operative, operator, peasant, worsen vb 1 aggravate, exacerbate,
practitioner, servant, slave, trades- heighten, increase, intensify, make
man, wage-earner, working man, worse.- 2 his health worsened, decline,
working woman, workman. degenerate, deteriorate, fail, get
workforce n employees, staff, work- worse, inf go downhill, weaken. Opp
ers. IMPROVE.
workmanship n art, artistry, com- worship n adoration, adulation,
petence, craft, craftsmanship, expert- deification, devotion, glorification,
ise, handicraft, handiwork, skill, homage, idolatry, love, praise, rever-
technique. ence, veneration. • vb admire, adore,
workshop n factory, mill, smithy, adulate, be devoted to, deify, dote
studio, workroom. on, exalt, extol, glorify, hero-
worship, idolize, kneel before, laud,
world n 1 earth, globe, planet. 2 area,
lionize, look up to, love, magnify,
circle, domain, field, milieu, sphere, pay homage to, praise, pray to, inf
worldly adj avaricious, covetous, put on a pedestal, revere, reverence,
earthly, fleshly, greedy, human, venerate.
material, materialistic, mundane, worth n benefit, cost, good, import-
physical, profane, secular, selfish, ance, merit, quality, significance,
temporal. Opp s pir it u a l . use, usefulness, utility, value, be
worm vb crawl, creep, slither, worth be priced at, cost, have a value
squirm, wriggle, writhe. of.
worn adj 1 frayed, moth-eaten, old, worthless adj old use bootless, dis-
ragged, inf scruffy, shabby, tattered, pensable, disposable, frivolous, futile,
inf tatty, thin, threadbare, worn-out. inf good-for-nothing, hollow, insigni-
2 t> WEARY. ficant, meaningless, meretricious,
worried adj afraid, agitated, agon- paltry, pointless, poor, inf rubbishy,
ized, alarmed, anxious, apprehen- inf trashy, trifling, trivial, trumpery,
sive, bothered, concerned, distraught, unimportant, unproductive, unprof-
distressed, disturbed, edgy, fearful, itable, unusable, useless, vain, value-
inf fraught, fretful, guilt-ridden, inse- less. Opp WORTHWHILE.
cure, nervous, nervy, neurotic, worthwhile adj advantageous, bene-
obsessed (by), on edge, overwrought, ficial, considerable, enriching, fruit-
perplexed, perturbed, solicitous, ful, fulfilling, gainful, gratifying,
 483 writing
helpful, important, invaluable, wrestle vb grapple, strive, struggle,
meaningful, noticeable, productive, tussle. > FIGHT.
profitable, remunerative, rewarding, wretch n 1 beggar, down-and-out,
satisfying, significant, sizeable, sub- miserable person, pauper, unfortu-
stantial, useful, valuable. t> w o r t h y . nate. 2 > VILLAIN.
Opp WORTHLESS.
wretched adj 1 dejected, depressed,
worthy adj admirable, commend- dispirited, downhearted, hapless,
able, creditable, decent, deserving, melancholy, miserable, pathetic,
estimable, good, honest, honourable, pitiable, pitiful, unfortunate. t> s a d .
laudable, meritorious, praiseworthy, 2 > UNSATISFACTORY.
reputable, respectable, worth sup- wriggle vb crawl, snake, squirm,
porting, worthwhile. Opp u n w o r t h y . twist, waggle, wiggle, wobble, worm,
wound n damage, hurt, injury, scar, writhe, zigzag.
trauma. □ amputation, bite, bruise, wring vb 1 clasp, compress, crush,
bum, contusion, cut, fracture, gash, grip, press, shake, squeeze, twist,
graze, laceration, lesion, mutilation, wrench, wrest. 2 coerce, exact,
puncture, scab, scald, scar, scratch, sore, extort, extract, force.
sprain, stab, sting, strain, weal, welt. •
vb cause pain to, damage, harm, wrinkle n corrugation, crease,
hurt, injure, traumatize. □ amputate, crinkle, inf crow’s foot, dimple, fold,
furrow, gather, line, pleat, pucker,
bite, blow up, bruise, bum, claw, cut,
ridge, ripple. • vb corrugate, crease,
fracture, gash, gore, graze, hit, impale,
crinkle, crumple, fold, furrow,
knife, lacerate, maim, make sore, mangle,
gather, make wrinkles, pleat, pucker
maul, mutilate, scratch, shoot, sprain,
up, ridge, ripple, ruck up, rumple,
strain, stab, sting, torture. Opp h e a l ,
screw up.
MEND.
wrinkled adj corrugated, creased,
wrap n cape, cloak, mantle, poncho, crinkly, crumpled, furrowed, fined,
shawl, stole. • vb bind, bundle up, pleated, ridged, ripply, rumpled,
cloak, cocoon, conceal, cover, do up, screwed up, shrivelled, undulating,
encase, enclose, enfold, enshroud, wavy, wizened, wrinkly. Opp s m o o t h .
envelop, hide, insulate, lag, muffle,
pack, package, shroud, surround, write vb be a writer, compile, com-
swaddle, swathe, wind. pose, copy, correspond, doodle, draft,
draw up, engrave, indite, inscribe,
wreathe vb adorn, decorate, encircle, jot, note, pen, print, put in writing,
festoon, intertwine, interweave, record, scrawl, scribble, set down,
twist, weave. take down, transcribe, type, write
wreck n 1 hulk, shipwreck. > w r e c k - Off > CANCEL, DESTROY.
a g e . 2 the wreck of all my hopes, de- writer n 1 amanuensis, clerk, copy-
molition, destruction, devastation, ist, derog pen-pusher, scribe, secret-
loss, obliteration, overthrow, ruin, ter- aiy, typist. 2 author, bard, composer,
mination, undoing. • vb 1 annihilate, derog hack, litterateur, wordsmith.
break up, crumple, crush, dash to □ biographer, columnist, contributor,
pieces, demofish, destroy, devastate, copy-writer, correspondent, diarist,
ruin, shatter, smash, spoil, inf write dramatist, essayist, freelancer, ghost-
off. 2 wreck a ship, capsize, founder, writer, journalist, leader-writer, libret-
ground, scuttle, sink, shipwreck. tist, novelist, playwright, poet, reporter,
wreckage n bits, debris, inf flot- scriptwriter.
sam and jetsam, fragments, pieces, writhe vb coil, contort, jerk, squirm,
remains, rubble, ruins. struggle, thrash about, thresh about,
wrench vb force, jerk, lever, prize, twist, wriggle.
pull, rip, strain, tear, tug, twist, writing n 1 calligraphy, characters,
wrest, wring, inf yank. copperplate, cuneiform, handwrit-
written 484

ing, hieroglyphics, inscription, it- 2 wrong answers, erroneous, falla-

alics, letters, longhand, notation, cious, false, imprecise, improper,
penmanship, printing, runes, scrawl, inaccurate, incorrect, inexact, mis-
screed, scribble, script, shorthand. informed, mistaken, unfounded,
2 authorship, composition, jour- untrue. 3 a wrong decision, curious,
nalism. 3 hard copy, literature, illadvised, ill-considered, ill-judged,
manuscript, opus, printout, text, impolitic, imprudent, injudicious,
typescript, work. □ article, autobio- misguided, misjudged, unacceptable,
graphy, belles-lettres, biography, comedy, unfair, unjust, unsound, unwise,
copy-writing, correspondence, crime story, wrongful. 4 go the wrong way. abnor-
criticism, detective story, diary, disserta- mal, contrary, inappropriate, incon-
tion, documentary, drama, editorial, epic, gruous, inconvenient, misleading,
epistle, essay, fable, fairy-tale, fantasy, opposite, unconventional, undesir-
fiction, folk-tale, history, legal document, able, unhelpful, unsuitable, worst.
legend, letter, libretto, lyric, monograph, 5 Something’s wrong, amiss, broken
mystery, myth, newspaper column, non- down, defective, faulty, out of order,
fiction, novel, parable, parody, philo- unusable. > b a d . Opp r ig h t . • vb
sophy,^ play, poem, propaganda, prose, abuse, be unfair to, cheat, damage,
reportage, romance, saga, satire, science do an injustice to, harm, hurt, injure,
fiction, scientific writing, scriptwriting, malign, maltreat, misrepresent, mis-
SF, sketch, story, tale, thesis, thriller, treat, traduce, treat unfairly, do
tragedy, tragi-comedy, travel writing, wrong > mis b e h a v e .
treatise, trilogy, TV script, verse, inf who-
wrongdoer n convict, criminal,
dunit, yam.
crook, culprit, delinquent, evil-doer,
written adj documentary, inf in black law-breaker, malefactor, mischief-
and white, inscribed, in writing, set maker, miscreant, offender, sinner,
down, transcribed, typewritten. Opp transgressor.
SPOKEN.
wrongdoing n crime, delinquency,
wrong adj 1 base, blameworthy, cor-
disobedience, evil, immorality, indis-
rupt, criminal, crooked, deceitful,
dishonest, dishonourable, evil, fe- cipline, iniquity, malpractice, mis-
lonious, illegal, illegitimate, illicit, behaviour, mischief, naughtiness,
immoral, iniquitous, irresponsible, offence, sin, sinfulness, wickedness.
mendacious, misleading, naughty, wry adj 1 askew, aslant, awry, bent,
reprehensible, sinful, specious, contorted, crooked, deformed, dis-
unethical, unjustifiable, unlawful, torted, lopsided, twisted, uneven. 2 a
unprincipled, unscrupulous, vicious, wry sense of humour, droll, diy, ironic,
villainous, wicked, wrong-headed. mocking, sardonic.
 Y
yard n court, courtyard, enclosure, unfledged, youngish. 2 young people.
garden, inf quad, quadrangle. adolescent, juvenile, pubescent,
yarn n 1 fibre, strand, thread. teenage, underage, youthful. 3 young
2 account, anecdote, fiction, narra- for your age. babyish, boyish, callow,
tive, story, tale. childish, girlish, inf green, immature,
yawning adj gaping, open, wide, inexperienced, infantile, juvenile,
yearly adj annual, perennial, regular,
naive, puerile. • n brood, family,
issue, litter, offspring, progeny,
yearn vb ache, feel desire, hanker, young creatures bullock, calf, chick,
have a craving, hunger, itch, long, colt, cub, cygnet, duckling, fawn,
pine. > w a n t . fledgling, foal, gosling, heifer, kid,
yellow adj □ chrome yellow, cream, kitten, lamb, leveret, nestling, pul-
gold, golden, orange, tawny. let, puppy, yearling, young people
yield n 1 crop, harvest, output, pro- adolescent, baby, boy, derog brat,
duce, product. 2 earnings, gain, child, girl, infant, juvenile, inf kid,
income, interest, proceeds, profit, lad, lass, inf nipper, teenager, tod-
return, revenue. • vb 1 acquiesce, dler, derog urchin, youngster, youth,
agree, assent, bow, capitulate, inf
youth n 1 adolescence, babyhood,
cave in, cede, comply, concede, defer,
give in, give up, give way, inf knuckle boyhood, childhood, girlhood, grow-
under, submit, succumb, surrender, ing up, immaturity, infancy, minor-
inf throw in the towel, inf throw up ity, pubescence, inf salad days, inf
the sponge. 2 yield interest, bear, earn, teens. 2 adolescent, boy, juvenile, inf
generate, pay out, produce, provide, kid, inf lad, minor, stripling,
return, supply, yielding > f l e x ib l e , teenager, youngster.
SPONGY, SUBMISSIVE. youthful adj fresh, lively, sprightly,
young adj 1 baby, early, growing, vigorous, well-preserved, young-
immature, new-born, undeveloped, looking. > YOUNG.
zany adj absurd, clownish, crazy, zest n appetite, eagerness, energy,
eccentric, idiotic, in/loony, inf mad, enjoyment, enthusiasm, exuberance,
madcap, playful, ridiculous, silly, si hunger, interest, liveliness, pleasure,
wacky. thirst, zeal.
zeal n derog bigotry, earnestness, zigzag adj bendy, crooked, infin and
enthusiasm, fanaticism, fervour, par- out, indirect, meandering, serpent-
tisanship. ine, twisting, winding. • vb bend,
zealot n bigot, extremist, fanatic, curve, meander, snake, tack, twist,
partisan, radical. wind.
zealous adj conscientious, diligent, zone n area, belt, district, domain,
eager, earnest, enthusiastic, fanati- locality, neighbourhood, province,
cal, fervent, keen, militant, obsessive, quarter, region, section, sector,
partisan, passionate. Opp a pa t h e t ic . sphere, territory, tract, vicinity.
zenith n acme, apex, apogee, climax, zoo ri menagerie, safari park, zoo-
height, highest point, meridian, peak, logical gardens.
pinnacle, summit, top. Opp n a d ir . zoom vb career, dart, dash, hurry,
zero n cricket duck, tennis love, hurtle, race, rush, shoot, speed, inf
naught, nil, nothing, nought, si zilch, whiz, inf zip. t> mo v e .
zero in on a im .
A lexicon of hard words
A
aam a former liquid wine measure of 37 to 41 gallons: a cask.
(also abattis) a defence made of felled trees with the boughs
abatis
pointing outwards.
abecedarian 1 one occupied in learning the alphabet. 2 a teacher of the
alphabet.
aberdevine a bird-fancier’s name for the siskin, a small bird like a
goldfinch.
aberrant diverging from the normal type or accepted standard,
abeyance a state of temporaiy disuse or suspension (in abeyance).
abiogenesis 1the formation of living organisms from non-living
substances. 2 the supposed spontaneous generation of living
organisms.
ablation 1 the surgical removal of body tissue. 2 the evaporation or
melting of part of the outer surface of a spacecraft, through heating
by friction with the atmosphere.
abnegation 1 denial; the rejection or renunciation of a doctrine. 2 self-
denial: self-sacrifice.
abomasum the fourth stomach of a ruminant.
abortifacient a drug or other agent that effects abortion,
abruption an interruption: a sudden break.
to descend a steep rock face by using a doubled rope coiled
abseil
round the body and fixed at a higher point.
abstemious (of a person, habit, etc.) moderate, not self-indulgent,
especially in eating and drinking.
abstruse hard to understand: obscure: profound.
abysmal 1 extremely bad (abysmal weather; the standard is abysmal).
2 profound, utter (abysmal ignorance).
acaricide a preparation for destroying mites.
acceptation a particular sense, or the generally recognized meaning, of
a word or phrase.
accidielaziness, sloth, apathy.
accolade 1 the awarding of praise: an acknowledgement of merit. 2 a
touch made with a sword at the bestowing of a knighthood.
accoutrements (US also accouterments) 1 equipment, trappings. 2 a
soldier’s outfit other than weapons and garments.
accretion 1 growthby organic enlargement or by slow additions of
extraneous matter. 2 the product of such growing.
accrue to come as a natural increase or advantage, especially financial.
488 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

acculturate to (cause to) adapt to or adopt a different culture,

acerbic 1 astringently sour. 2 bitter in speech, manner, or temper,
acme the highest point or period (of-achievement, success, etc.); the
peak of perfection (displayed the acme of good taste).
acolyte 1 a person assisting a priest in a service or procession. 2 an
assistant; a beginner.
acuity (of a needle, senses, understanding) sharpness, acuteness,
acumen keen insight or discernment, penetration.
adduce to cite as an instance or as proof or evidence.
adiaphorism religious or theological indifference; latitudinarianism.
adipose of or characterized by fat; fatty.
adit a horizontal entrance or passage in a mine.
adminicle 1 a thing that helps. 2 (in Scottish law) collateral evidence of
- the contents of a missing document.
adobe an unbumt sun-dried brick, or the clay used for making these,
adscititious adopted from without; supplementary.
adulate to flatter obsequiously.
adumbrate 1to indicate faintly. 2 to represent in outline. 3 to
foreshadow, typify. 4 to overshadow.
accidental, casual. 2 added from outside or
adventitious 1
unexpectedly. 3 Biol, formed accidentally or under unusual
conditions.
advowson(in British ecclesiastical law) the right of recommending a
member of the clergy for a vacant benefice, or of making the
appointment.
adze a tool for cutting away the surface of wood, like an axe with an
arched blade at right angles to the handle.
aegis protection, defence (under the aegis of= under the protection of),
aegrotat 1 a certificate that a British university student is too ill to
attend an examination. 2 an examination pass awarded in such
circumstances.
aeolipyle an instrument by which steam produces circular motion,
aerotrain a train that is supported on an air cushion and guided by a
track.
aestival (US estival) belonging to or appearing in summer.
afflatus a divine creative impulse; inspiration,
aficionado a devotee of a sport or pastime.
agape 1 a Christian feast in token of fellowship, especially one held by
early Christians in commemoration of the Last Supper. 2 Christian
fellowship, especially as distinct from erotic love.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 489

agitprop the dissemination of Communist political propaganda,

especially in plays, films, books, etc.
aglet 1 a metal tag attached to each end of a shoelace etc. 2 an
aiguillette.
agnate 1 descended especially by male line from the same male
ancestor. 2 descended from the same forefather; of the same clan or
nation.
agora a place of public assembly, especially the market place.
agraffe a kind of hook on a ring, used as a clasp.
ahimsa in the Hindu, Buddhist, and Jainist tradition, respect for all
living things, and avoidance of violence towards others both in
thought and deed.
aigrette 1 the white plume of an egret. 2 a tuft of feathers or hair. 3 a
spray of gems or similar ornament.
a tagged point hanging from the shoulder on the breast of
aiguillette
some uniforms.
a Japanese form of self-defence making use of the attacker’s own
aikido
movements without causing injury.
ait (also eyot) Brit, a small island, especially in a river.
akimbo(of the arms) with hands on the hips and elbows turned
outwards.
a magistrate or mayor in a Spanish, Portuguese, or Latin
alcalde
American town.
depending on the throw of a die or on chance. 2 involving
aleatoric 1
random choice by a performer or artist.
alembic 1 an apparatus formerly used in distilling, an early kind of
retort. 2 a means of refining or extracting.
aliment food.
allele (also allel) one of the (usually two) alternative forms of a gene,
alluviuma deposit of usually fine fertile soil left during a time of flood,
especially in a river valley or delta.
almagest the astronomical treatise of Ptolemy; in the Middle Ages also
other books of astrology and astronomy.
alopecia baldness.
altruism regard for others; unselfishness, concern for other people.
amah (in the Far East and India) a nursemaid or maid.
amanuensis a person who writes from dictation or copies manuscripts;
a literary assistant.
ambagious roundabout; circuitous.
ambient surrounding.
490 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

ambit 1 the scope, extent, or bounds of something. 2 precincts or

environs.
ambivalent having opposing feelings, especially love and hate, in a
single context.
amice 1 a white linen cloth worn on the neck and shoulders by a priest
celebrating the Eucharist. 2 a cap, hood, or cape worn by members of
certain religious orders.
amnesty a general pardon, especially for political offences.
ampersand the sign & ( = and).
amphibology 1 a quibble. 2 an ambiguous wording.
amphigoric of or being nonsense verses.
amphora a Greek or Roman vessel with two handles and a narrow neck,
ampoule (US ampul or ampule) a small capsule in which measured
7 quantities of liquids or solids, especially for injecting, are sealed ready
for use.
amygdaloid shaped like an almond.
anabasis 1 the march of the younger Cyrus into Asia in 401 b c , as
narrated by Xenophon in his work Anabasis. 2 a military up-country
march.
anabiosis revival after apparent death.
anadromous (of a fish) swimming up a river to spawn.
anaglyph 1 a composite stereoscopic photograph printed in
superimposed complementary colours. 2 an embossed object cut in
low relief.
analects (also analecta) a collection of short literary extracts.
analeptic (of a drug etc.) restorative.
analgesiathe absence or relief of pain, especially without loss of
consciousness.
anamnesis 1 recollection, especially of a supposed previous existence.
2 a patient’s account of his or her medical history. 3 the part of the
Eucharist recalling Christ’s Passion, Resurrection, and Ascension.
anathema 1 a detested person or thing (is anathema to me). 2 a curse of
the Church, excommunicating someone or denouncing a doctrine, or
a person or thing so cursed.
anchorite a hermit; a religious recluse.
ancillary 1 (of aperson, activity, or service) providing essential support
to a central service or industry, especially the medical service.
2 subordinate or subservient (to).
andiron a metal stand for supporting logs in a fireplace; a firedog.
androgynoushaving both male and female sexual organs;
hermaphrodite.
anfractuosity 1 circuitousness. 2 intricacy.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 491

ankh a device consisting of a looped bar with a shorter crossbar, used

in ancient Egypt as a symbol of life.
annular ring-shaped.

anodyne 1 able to relieve pain. 2 mentally soothing (anodyne remarks).

anomalous having an irregular or deviant feature; abnormal.
anomy (also anomie) lack of the usual social or ethical standards in an
individual or group.
anopheles a genus of mosquitoes, many of which cany the malarial
parasite.
anthelmintic any drug or agent that destroys tapeworms, roundworms,
flukes, etc.
anthropomorphic (of a god, animal, or thing) having a human form or
personality.
anti-heroa central character in a story or drama who noticeably lacks
conventional heroic attributes.
antihistamine a substance used especially in the treatment of allergies,
antinomy 1 a contradiction between two reasonable beliefs or
conclusions; a paradox. 2 a conflict between two laws or authorities.
anuran any tailless amphibian of the order that includes frogs and
toads.
apatetic(of markings or colourings) deceptively resembling those of
another species or of the environment.
apiculture bee-keeping.
aplomb assurance; self-confidence.
apodictic 1 clearly established. 2 of clear demonstration.
apophthegm (US apothegm) a terse saying or maxim; an aphorism,
aposematic Zool. (of coloration, markings, etc.) serving to warn or repel,
appanage(also apanage) 1 provision for the maintenance of the
younger children of kings. 2 a perquisite. 3 a natural
accompaniment or attribute.
appetence longing, desire.
apteryx a kiwi.
arachnid any arthropod of the class including scorpions, spiders, mites,
and ticks.
arbalest (also arblast) a crossbow with a mechanism for drawing the
string.
arboretum a botanical garden devoted to trees.
arcane mysterious, secret; understood by few.
archaism 1 the retention or imitation of the old or obsolete, especially
in language or art. 2 an antiquated word or expression.
archetypical being a typical specimen or recurrent symbol.
492 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

archimandrite 1 the superior of a large monastery or several

monasteries in the Orthodox Church. 2 an honoraiy title given to a
monastic priest.
arcuate shaped like a bow; curved.
areola 1 a circular pigmented area, especially that surrounding a
nipple. 2 any of the spaces between lines on a surface, e.g. of a leaf or
an insect’s wing.
argil clay, especially that used in pottery.
argol crude potassium hydrogen tartrate; a crusty deposit that builds
up in vats during winemaking.
argute 1 sharp, shrewd. 2 (of sounds) shrill.
arisings the secondary or waste products of industrial operations,
armiger a person entitled to heraldic arms.
attack (also arak) an alcoholic spirit, especially distilled from coconut
sap or rice.
arraign 1 to indict before a tribunal; accuse. 2 to call (an action or
. statement) into question.
arras a rich tapestry, formerly hung on the walls of a room Or to
conceal an alcove.
arrogate 1 (often followed by to oneself) to claim (power, responsibility,
etc.) without justification. 2 to attribute unjustly to a person.
arroyo US 1 a brook or stream. 2 a gulley.
arthropod any invertebrate animal of the phylum that has a segmented
body, jointed limbs, and an external skeleton, e.g. an insect, spider, or
crustacean.
ascesis the practice of self-discipline.
ashram a place of religious retreat for Hindus,
askari an East African soldier or policeman,
aspergillum a brush for sprinkling holy water.
assay to test (a metal, ore, or other substance) to determine its
ingredients, concentration, etc.
assegai (also assagai) a slender iron-tipped spear, especially as used by
South African peoples.
asseverate to declare solemnly.
asthenic 1 of lean or long-limbed build. 2 weakened and debilitated,
astral of or consisting of stars.
ataraxy (also ataraxia) calmness or tranquillity; imperturbability,
atavistic reverting to an earlier type, or to remote ancestors,
atheling a prince or lord in Anglo-Saxon England.
atoll a ring-shaped coral reef enclosing a lagoon.
atrabilious melancholy; ill-tempered.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 493

attenuate to make thinner; dilute or reduce in force, value, or

virulence.
auctorial of or pertaining to an author.
audile of the sense of hearing.
aumbry 1 a small recess in a church wall. 2 an old word for a cupboard,
aureole 1 a halo, especially round the head or body of a portrayed
religious figure. 2 a corona round the sun or moon,
auscultation the act of listening, especially to sounds from the heart,
lungs, etc., as a part of medical diagnosis.
austral 1 southern. 2 of Australia or Australasia,
autarky 1 self-sufficiency, especially as an economic system. 2 a state
etc. run according to such a system.
autochthons the original or earliest inhabitants of a country;
aboriginals.
autocross motor-racing across country or on unmade roads,
autodidact a self-taught person.
autonomous 1 having self-government. 2 acting independently or free
to do so.
autotomy the casting off of a body part when threatened, e.g. the tail of
a lizard.
avatar 1 in Hindu mythology, the descent of a deity or released soul to
earth in bodily form. 2 incarnation; manifestation. 3 a manifestation
or phase.
avid eager, greedy.
avionics electronics as applied to aviation.
avocation 1 a minor occupation. 2 a vocation or calling.
avuncularlike or of an uncle; kind and friendly, especially towards a
younger person.
axolotl an aquatic Mexican salamander which retains its larval form for
life but can breed.
ayatollah a Shi’ite Muslim religious leader in Iran,
ayurvedic of or being traditional Hindu medicine,
azoth the alchemists’ name for mercury.

B
baasskaap domination, especially of South African non-Whites by
Whites. *
babushka a headscarf tied under the chin,
baccalaureate 1the university degree of bachelor. 2 an examination
intended to qualify successful candidates for higher education,
bacchanalia drunken revelry.
494 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

bacchant riotous, roistering.

badinage humorous or playful ridicule.
bagatelle 1 a game in which small balls are struck into numbered holes
on a board, with pins as obstructions. 2 a mere trifle; a negligible
amount (and see m u s ic ).
bagel a hard ring-shaped bread roll.
bagnio 1 a brothel. 2 an oriental prison.
bailiwick 1 the district or jurisdiction of a bailiff or bailie. 2 a person’s
sphere of operations or particular area of interest.
baklava a rich sweetmeat of flaky pastry, honey, and nuts.
baksheesh (also backsheesh) (in some oriental countries) a small sum of
money given as a tip or in alms.
baldachin (also baldaquin) 1 a ceremonial canopy over an altar, throne,
etc., or carried in a procession. 2 a rich brocade.
balderdash senseless talk or writing; nonsense.
baldrica belt for a sword, bugle, etc. that hung from the shoulder
across the body to the opposite hip.
baleen whalebone.
ballista a catapult used in ancient warfare for hurling large stones etc.
balneal relating to bathing and medicinal springs.
baltimore (also baltimore-oriole) a North American bird of the starling
family.
banausic 1 uncultivated or materialistic. 2 suitable only for artisans.
banderole (also banderol) 1 a long narrow flag flown at a masthead, or a
similar streamer on a knight’s lance. 2 a ribbon-like scroll.
banket the gold-bearing rocks of the Transvaal.
banneret 1a knight who commanded his own troops in battle under
his own banner. 2 a knighthood given on the battlefield for courage.
banshee an Irish or Scottish female spirit whose wailing warns of death
in a house.
banzai 1 a Japanese battle-cry. 2 a form of greeting used to the Japanese
emperor.
barbel any of the fleshy filaments growing from the mouth of a fish.
barbule a minute filament projecting from the barb of a feather.
Barmecide illusory, imaginary; such as to disappoint.
barracoon a rough barrack in which negro slaves, convicts, etc. were
temporarily housed.
barre a horizontal bar at waist level used in dance exercises.
barrette 1 the crossbar of a fencing foil or hilt of a rapier. 2 a woman’s
hair ornament or bar for supporting the back hair.
barton 1 a farmyard. 2 the demesne lands of a manor.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 495

bascule a type of drawbridge raised and lowered by counterweights,

basinet a light metal headpiece of medieval times, with a visor,
bastinado punishment by beating with a stick on the soles of the feet,
bat-fowling the catching of roosting birds at night.
bathos an unintentional lapse from the sublime to the absurd or
trivial; a commonplace or ridiculous feature offsetting an otherwise
sublime situation; an anticlimax.
bathysphere a spherical vessel for deep-sea observation.
batik cloth decorated with coloured designs produced by applying wax
to the parts to be left uncoloured.
bayou a marshy offshoot of a river etc. in the southern US.
beatific 1 blissful (a beatific smile). 2 of blessedness, or making blessed,
bedizened gaudily decked out.
beedi an Indian cigarette made of a leaf rolled and tied with thread,
beestings the first milk (especially of a cow) after giving birth,
behemoth an enormous creature or thing.
behest a command; an entreaty (went at his behest).
bellicose eager to fight; warlike.
the leading sheep of a flock, on whose neck a bell is
bell-wether 1
hung. 2 an absurd chief or leader.
belvedere a summer house or open-sided gallery usually at rooftop
level.
benignant 1 kindly, especially to inferiors. 2 salutary, beneficial. 3 Med.
(of a disease, tumour, etc.) benign; not malignant.
benison a blessing.
bergschrund a crevasse or gap at the head of a glacier or neve.
berserk wild, frenzied; in a violent rage (went berserk).
bestiary a moralizing medieval treatise on real and imaginary beasts,
bethel a chapel or nonconformist meeting-house.
bey(in the former Ottoman Empire) the title of the governor of a
province.
bezel 1the sloped edge of a chisel. 2 the oblique faces of a cut gem. 3 a
groove or rim holding a watch-glass or gem.
bib-cock a tap with a bent nozzle fixed at the end of a pipe.
bibelot a small curio or artistic trinket.
bibliopole a seller of (especially rare) books,
bicuspid having two cusps, horns, or points (bicuspid tooth).
bifurcate to fork into two branches.
bight 1 a curve or recess in a coastline, river, etc. 2 a loop of rope.
496 A LEXICON OF HARO WORDS

bigot an obstinate and intolerant believer in a religion, political theory,

etc.
bilboes an iron bar with sliding shackles formerly used for securing a
prisoner’s ankles.
biltong SAfr. boneless meat salted and dried in strips.
biodegradable capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living
organisms.
bionichaving artificial body parts or the superhuman powers resulting
from these.
birettaa square usually flat cap with three flat projections on top, worn
by (especially Roman Catholic) clergymen.
bisque 1 a rich shellfish soup, especially from lobster. 2 an advantage
of scoring one free point in tennis, croquet, and golf, or of taking an
'extra turn or stroke. 3 fired unglazed pottery; biscuit.
bissextile leap year.
bistoury a surgical scalpel.
(US bister) (the colour of) a brownish pigment made from the soot
bistre
of burnt wood.
bitumen a tarlike mixture of hydrocarbons derived from petroleum,
used for road surfacing and roofing.
blase 1 unimpressed or indifferent because of overfamiliarity. 2 tired
of pleasure; surfeited.
blatherskite a foolish chatterer.
bleachers(especially US) the outdoor uncovered bench seats at a sports
ground, arranged in tiers and very cheap.
bleb 1 a small blister on the skin. 2 a small bubble in glass or on water,
blet the form of near-decay seen in over-ripe pears etc.
blunger a machine to mix clay etc. with water.
blurb a (usually eulogistic) description of a book, especially printed on
its jacket, as promotion by its publishers.
bodega a cellar or shop selling wine and food, especially in a Spanish-
speaking country.
boletus a large edible fungus, spongy underneath.
bolide a large exploding meteor; a fireball.
bolus 1 a soft ball, especially of chewed food. 2 a large pill.
bombazine(also bombasine) a twilled worsted dress material with or
without some silk or cotton, especially when black.
bonzai 1 the art of cultivating ornamental artificially dwarfed trees and
shrubs. 2 a tree or shrub grown in this way.
boondocks US slang rough or isolated country.
boondoggle US slang a trifling, useless, or wasteful undertaking.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 497

borak Austral. 8 NZ slang banter, ridicule,

borborygmus a rumbling of gas in the intestines,
boreal of the North, or the north wind,
bosky wooded, bushy.
boulesa French form of bowls, played on rough ground with usually
metal balls.
bouleversement a violent inversion.
bowdlerize to remove objectionable matter from (a book etc.); expurgate,
brachial of or like an arm.
brad a thin flat nail with a narrow head.
braggadocio empty boasting; a boastful manner of speech and
behaviour.
brandreth 1 a tripod or trivet. 2 a wooden framework supporting a
cask, hay-rick, etc.
branksa scold’s bridle; an iron framework for the head with a sharp
metal gag.
brassage a mint charge levied to cover the expense of coining money,
brassard a band worn on the sleeve, especially with a uniform.
brasserie a restaurant, originally one serving beer with food,
brattice a wooden partition or shaft lining in a coal mine.
bravura 1 a brilliant or ambitious action or display. 2 a style of
(especially vocal) music requiring exceptional ability.
braxy (Scot) an apoplectic disease of sheep.
brevet a document conveying a privilege from a sovereign or
government, especially a rank in the army, without the appropriate
pay-
breviary RC Ch. a book containing the service for each day, to be recited
by those in orders.
brevier the name of a rather small type size.
brewis bread soaked in broth,
bridewell an old word for a prison or reformatory,
brimstone an old word for the element sulphur.
brindled(especially of domestic animals) brownish or tawny with
streaks of other colour.
Brobdingnagian huge, immense, gigantic.
Brummagem cheap and showy and perhaps counterfeit (Brummagem
goods).
bruxism the involuntary grinding or clenching of the teeth,
buccinator a flat thin cheek muscle.
buckler a small round shield that was held by a handle.
498 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

bucolic of shepherds, the pastoral life, etc.; rural.

buhl furniture etc. decorated with inlays of brass, tortoiseshell, etc. cut
in patterns.
bulla 1 a watery blister on the skin. 2 a genus of deep-water molluscs,
bunraku the traditional Japanese puppet theatre.
bunt 1 the baggy centre of a sail or fishing net. 2 a disease of wheat.
3 (verb) ato butt with the head or horns, b to stop (a ball in US
baseball) with the bat without swinging.
a graduated glass tube with an end-tap for measuring
burette (US buret)
small volumes of liquid in chemical analysis.
burgoo a thick oatmeal gruel or porridge used by sailors.
burin 1a steel tool for engraving on copper or wood. 2 a flint tool of
the Stone Age with a chisel point.
burke 1 to murder by suffocation or strangulation, or for the purpose
of selling the victim’s body for dissection. 2 to suppress quietly; to
evade or shirk.
burlap 1a coarse canvas, especially ofjute,used for sacking etc. 2 a
similar lighter material for use in dressmaking or furnishing.
bursa Anat. a fluid-filled cavity to lessen friction.
bushwhacker US, Austral., & NZ someone who clears woods and bush
country, or lives and travels there.
buskins 1 thick-soled laced boots worn by ancient Athenian tragic
actors to gain height. 2 medieval calf- or knee-high cloth or leather
boots.
bustee an Indian shanty town; a slum.
butter-bump a dialect name for the bittern.
butyraceous like butter; buttery7.
bwana (Afr.) master; sir.

c
cabal 1 a secret intrigue. 2 a political clique or faction.
caballero a Spanish gentleman.
cabbala 1 the Jewish mystical tradition. 2 mystic interpretation; any
esoteric doctrine or occult lore.
caboose 1 a kitchen on a ship’s deck. 2 US a guard’s van; a car on a
freight train for workmen etc.
cabotage 1 coastal navigation and trade. 2 the reservation to a country
of (especially air) traffic operation within its territory.
a kind of curved leg characteristic of Queen Anne and
cabriole
Chippendale furniture.
cabriolet 1a light two-wheeled carriage with a hood, drawn by one
horse. 2 a car with a folding top.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 499

cache a hiding place for treasure, provisions, ammunition, etc., or its

contents.
cachet 1 a distinguishing mark or seal. 2 prestige. 3 Med. a flat capsule
enclosing a dose of unpleasant-tasting medicine.
cachinnate to laugh loudly.
cachou a lozenge to sweeten the breath.
cacique 1 a West Indian or American Indian native chief. 2 a Spanish
or Latin American political boss.
cacoethes an urge to do something undesirable.
cacography bad handwriting or spelling.
cadastral of or showing the extent, value, and ownership of land for
taxation.
cadaver a corpse.
cadre 1 a basic unit, especially of servicemen, forming a nucleus for
expansion when necessary. 2 a group of activists in a revolutionary
party, or a member of such a group.
caduceus an ancient Greek or Roman herald’s wand, especially as
carried by Hermes or Mercury.
caesura 1 (in Greek and Latin verse) a break between words within a
metrical foot. 2 (in modem verse) a pause near the middle of the line.
caisson 1 awatertight chamber in which underwater construction
work can be done. 2 a floating vessel used as a floodgate in docks.
3 an ammunition chest or wagon.
cajole to persuade by flattery, deceit, etc. into or out of.
calabash 1 an evergreen tree of tropical America, Crescentia cujete. 2 a
gourd from this tree, whose shell is used to carry water, make a
tobacco pipe, etc.
calash 1 a light low-wheeled carriage with a removable folding hood.
2 Canadian a two-wheeled horse-drawn vehicle. 3 a woman’s hooped
silk hood.
calcaneus the bone forming the heel.
calefacient a substance producing a sensation of warmth.
calender a machine in which cloth, paper, etc. is pressed by rollers to
glaze or smooth it.
calibrate 1 to mark (a gauge) with a standard scale of readings. 2 to
correlate the readings of (an instrument) with a standard. 3 to
determine the calibre of (a gun). 4 to determine the correct capacity
or value of. '
callipers compasses with bowed legs for measuring the diameter of
convex bodies or internal dimensions.
callipygian having beautiful buttocks.
calotte a skullcap as worn by Roman Catholic clergymen.
500 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

caltrop(also caltrap) 1 a four-spiked iron ball that used to be thrown on

the ground to impede cavalry horses. 2 a creeping plant of the genus
Tribulus, with hard spines.
calumet a North American Indian peace pipe.
calumny slander; malicious misrepresentation.
cambist 1 one who deals in bills of exchange. 2 a manual of foreign
exchanges.
camelopard an old word for a giraffe.
cameralistics the management of German state property.
campestral pertaining to fields or open country.
canard 1 anunfounded rumour. 2 an extra surface attached to an
aeroplane forward of the main lifting surface, for extra stability or
control.
cancellate marked with crossing lines.
cancroid 1 crablike. 2 resembling cancer.
cangue a broad heavy wooden frame worn round the neck as a former
punishment in China.
cannelure the groove round a bullet.
cannula a small tube for inserting into the body to allow fluid to enter
or escape.
an urn for holding the entrails of an embalmed body in
Canopic urn/jar
an ancient Egyptian burial.
cantankerous bad-tempered, quarrelsome.
canterbury a piece of furniture with partitions for holding music etc.
cantharides a preparation of dried beetles, causing blistering of the
skin and formerly used in medicine and as an aphrodisiac.
canthus either comer of the eye, where the eyelids meet,
cantie the part that sticks up at the back of a saddle.
canto a division of a long poem.
canton a subdivision of a country, especially of Switzerland,
cantor the leader of the singing in a church or synagogue.
(of music) to be sung by the north side of a church choir in
cantoris
antiphonal singing (compare d e c a n i ).
caoutchouc raw rubber.
capitular 1 of a cathedral chapter. 2 of or being a lump on the end of a
bone.
capote a long hooded cloak, formerly worn by soldiers and travellers,
capuche a monk’s hood.
Capuchin 1 aFranciscan friar of the rule of 1529. 2 a cloak and hood
formerly worn by women. 3 (capuchin) a a South American monkey
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 501

with cowl-like head and hair, b a kind of pigeon with head and neck
feathers like a cowl.
caracole a horse’s half-turn to the right or left.
carapace the hard upper shell of a tortoise or crustacean.
caravanserai an Eastern inn with a central court where desert caravans
may rest.
carboy a large globular glass bottle usually protected by a frame, for
containing liquids.
carcanet an old word for a jewelled collar or headdress.
caret a mark (a , X) indicating a proposed insertion in printing or
writing.
caries decay and crumbling of a tooth or bone.
a set of bells sounded either from a keyboard or
carillon 1
mechanically. 2 an organ stop imitating a peal of bells.
carminative relieving flatulence.
camet 1 a customs permit to take a motor vehicle across a frontier for
a limited period. 2 a permit allowing use of a campsite.
carob an evergreen Mediterranean tree whose edible pods are
sometimes used as a substitute for chocolate.
carpet-bagger 1 (especially US) a political candidate in an area where
the candidate has no local connections. 2 an unscrupulous
opportunist
carrel a small cubicle for a reader in a libraiy, or formerly for study in a
cloister.
carronadea short ship’s gun of large calibre, with a chamber for the
powder like a mortar.
cartography the drawing of maps.
cartouche an oval ring usually enclosing a king’s name in Egyptian
hieroglyphics.
caruncle a fleshy excrescence such as a turkeycock’s wattles, or a
similar outgrowth on a plant.
casern a building in a town to accommodate troops; a barrack.
casque a helmet.
caste 1 any of the Hindu hereditary classes. 2 a more or less exclusive
social class, or the position this confers.
castigate to rebuke or punish severely.
casuistrythe resolving of moral problems with clever but false
reasoning.
cataclysm 1 a violent, especially social or political, upheaval or
disaster. 2 a great flood.
502 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

catafalquea decorative wooden framework to support a coffin during a

funeral or when lying in state.
catamite a boy kept for homosexual practices.
catchpole 1 a Roman publican; a tax-gatherer. 2 a sheriff’s officer or
sergeant.
catechumen a Christian convert under instruction before baptism,
cateran a Highland irregular fighting man; a marauder.
catharsis 1 an emotional release in drama or art. 2 purging of the
bowels.
catholicon a universal remedy; a panacea.
catoptric of or being a mirror, a reflector, or reflection.
caucus 1 a meeting of US political party members to decide policy; or a
-bloc of such members. 2 a secret meeting of a group within any
.larger organization; or such a group.
caudal of a tail, or the hind parts of the body.
caudillo (in Spanish-speaking countries) a military or political leader.
caulthe inner membrane enclosing a foetus, a part of which is
sometimes found on a child’s head at birth.
cay a low insular bank or reef of coral, sand, etc.
a mark written under the letter 9, especially in French, to
cedilla 1
show that it is sibilant (as in fa fade). 2 a similar mark under 5 in
Turkish and other oriental languages.
Ir. & Sc. an informal gathering for conversation, music, dancing,
ceilidh
songs, and stories.
cenacle a supping room; an upper chamber, especially that in which
the Last Supper was held.
cephalic of the head.
cerecloth waxed cloth formerly used as a waterproof covering or
(especially) as a shroud.
certitude a feeling of absolute certainty; conviction.
cerulean deep blue like a clear sky.
cerumen earwax.
cervelat a kind of smoked pork sausage.
cetacean any marine mammal with a streamlined hairless body and a
blowhole on the back for breathing, including whales, dolphins, and
porpoises.
chador(also chador, chuddar) a large cloth worn in some countries by
Muslim women, wrapped around the body to leave only the face
exposed.
chalcedony a type of quartz occurring in several forms, e.g. onyx, agate,
tiger’s eye, etc.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 503

Chaldean 1 of ancient Chaldea or its people or language. 2 of or

relating to astrology.
chalybeate (of mineral water etc.) impregnated with iron salts,
chamfer a bevelled surface at a right-angled edge or corner,
chanterelle an edible fungus with a yellow funnel-shaped cap and
smelling of apricots.
chaplet 1 a garland for the head. 2 a string of beads used for counting
prayers or as a necklace.
charisma 1 the ability to inspire followers with devotion and
enthusiasm; great charm. 2 a divinely conferred power or talent.
charpoy a light Indian bedstead.
chasuble a priest’s usually ornate loose sleeveless outer vestment,
chauvinism 1 exaggerated or aggressive patriotism. 2 excessive or
prejudiced support for one’s own cause or group or sex (mate
chauvinism).
chela 1a prehensile claw of crabs, scorpions, etc. 2 in Buddhism, a
novice or disciple.
cheongsam a Chinese woman’s dress with a high neck and slit skirt,
cheval glass a tall mirror swung on an upright frame.
cheverel 1 kid leather. 2 pliable and yielding.
chibouk a long Turkish tobacco pipe.
chiliad 1 a thousand. 2 a thousand years.
chiliasmthe doctrine of or belief in Christ’s prophesied reign of 1,000
years on earth.
chimera (also chimaera) 1 a female monster in Greek mythology, with a
lion’s head, a goat’s body, and a serpent’s tail. 2 a fantastic product of
the imagination; a bogy. 3 an organism formed out of different parts
by grafting.
chirography handwriting, calligraphy.
chiropody the treatment of the feet and their ailments.
any creature such as the bats and flying foxes, whose
chiropteran
membraned limbs serve as wings.
chitin the hornlike substance in the shells of crustaceans etc.
chondrify to turn into cartilage.
chopine (also chopin) a woman’s high-heeled clog.
*
chop-logic pedantic argument.
choragus (also choregus) 1 the leader of an ancient Greek chorus. 2 a
choir leader.
chrestomathy a selection of passages used to help in learning a
language.
504 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

chrismconsecrated oil used especially for anointing in Catholic and

Greek Orthodox rites.
chrisoma baby’s white baptismal robe that was used as its shroud if it
died within the month.
chthonic (also chthonian) of the underworld.
chutzpah slang shameless audacity; cheek.
chyle milky fluid consisting of lymph and absorbed food from the
intestine after digestion.
cicerone a guide who gives information to sightseers.
cicisbeo the recognized male escort of a married woman,
cilice haircloth, or a garment made of this.
Cimmerian dark; densely gloomy.
cineaste a cinema enthusiast.
cingulum Anat. a girdle or similar structure, especially the ridge round
the base of the crown of a tooth.
circinateBot. & Zool. rolled up with apex in the centre, e.g. of young
fronds of ferns.
circumspect wary, cautious; taking everything into account,
circumvent 1 to evade (a difficulty); find a way round. 2 to baffle,
outwit.
clade Biol, a group of organisms evolved from a common ancestor,
clairschach the old Celtic harp strung with wire.
clandestine surreptitious, secret.
clapperdudgeon a term of insult for a beggar.
claque a group of people hired to applaud in a theatre etc.
claymore la an early Scottish broadsword, b a broadsword, often with a
single edge, having a hilt with a basketwork design. 2 US a type of
anti-personnel mine.
clemency mercy.
clepsydra an ancient time-measuring device worked by a flow of water,
clerihew a short comic or nonsensical verse in two rhyming couplets
with lines of unequal length, about a famous person whose name
usually provides one of the rhymes.
clerisy learned people as a body; scholars.
climacteric 1 Med. the period of life when fertility and sexual activity
are in decline. 2 a supposed critical period in life (especially
occurring every seven years).
cline a graded sequence of differences within a species etc.; a
continuum.
clinquant glittering, as with tinsel or spangles.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 505

cliometrics a method of historical research making much use of

statistical information and methods.
cloaca the single genital and excretory passage in birds, reptiles, etc.
clone 1a group of organisms produced asexually from one parent. 2 a
person or thing regarded as identical with another.
cloture US the closure of a debate.
coalesce to come together and form one whole.
coaptation adaptation of parts to each other, e.g. the ends of a fractured
bone.
cochleate shaped like a snail shell; spiral.
codex an ancient manuscript in book form.
coeliac of or affecting the belly.
coenobite a member of a monastic community.
coetaneous contemporary, simultaneous.
coeval 1of the same age. 2 of the same duration. 3 existing at the
same time.
cogent (of arguments, reasons, etc.) convincing, compelling.
cognomen 1 a nickname. 2 an ancient Roman’s personal name or
epithet, as in Marcus Tullius Cicero, Publius Cornelius Scipio Africanus.
cohere1 (of parts or a whole) to stick together, remain united. 2 (of
reasoning etc.) to be logical or consistent.
col a depression in a mountain ridge, generally affording a pass,
cold-short (of a metal) brittle in its cold state.
collogue to talk confidentially.
colloquium an academic conference or seminar.
collude to conspire, especially for a fraudulent purpose.
colophon 1 a publisher’s device or imprint, especially on the title-
page. 2 a tailpiece in a manuscript or book, often ornamental, giving
the writer’s or printer’s name, the date, etc.
colophony rosin.
colostrum the first secretion from the mammary glands after giving
birth.
colporteur an itinerant seller of (especially religious) books.
columbarium 1 a dovecote. 2 a vault with niches for funerary urns. 3 a
hole left in a wall for the end of a beam.
comedo a blackhead.
commensurate having the same size, duration, etc.; coextensive or
proportionate with.
commination the threatening of divine vengeance; the recital of divine
threats against sinners.
506 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

commode 1 a chest of drawers. 2 a chamber-pot concealed in a chair

with a hinged cover.
compliant disposed to comply; yielding, obedient.
complicity partnership in a crime or wrongdoing.
compunction the pricking of conscience; regret, scruples.
compurgation acquittal from a charge or accusation, formerly obtained
by the oaths of witnesses.
concha Anat. any shell-like part, especially the outer ear.
concomitant going together; associated (concomitant circumstances).
concordance 1 agreement. 2 a book containing an alphabetical list of
the important words used in a book or by an author, usually with
citations of the passages concerned.
concordatan agreement, especially between the Roman Catholic
church and a State.
Concupiscence sexual desire.
condign (of a punishment etc.) severe and well-deserved.
condone 1 to forgive or overlook (an offence or wrongdoing). 2 to
approve or sanction, usually reluctantly. 3 (of an action) to atone for
(an offence); make up for.
conduit 1 a channel or pipe for conveying liquids. 2 a tube or trough
for protecting insulated electric wires.
condyle (also condyl) a rounded projection at the end of a bone, forming
a joint with another bone.
confluence 1a place where two rivers meet. 2a a coming together, b a
crowd of people.
confrere a fellow member of a profession, scientific body, etc.
confute to prove (a person) to be in error or (an argument) to be false,
congeries a disorderly collection; a mass or heap.
connive1 (followed by at) to disregard or tacitly consent to (a
wrongdoing). 2 to conspire with.
connubial of marriage or the marital relationship.
conquistadora conqueror, especially one of the Spanish conquerors of
Mexico and Peru in the 16th century.
consensus a general agreement of opinion, testimony, etc.; a majority
view.
to hand over; deliver to a person’s possession or trust.
consign 1 2 to
commit decisively or permanently (consigned it to the dustbin).
consistory the council of Roman Catholic cardinals, or a court presided
over by a bishop of the Church of England.
constrain 1 to compel, or bring about by compulsion. 2 to confine or
restrict forcibly.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 507

contentious 1 aggressive, quarrelsome. 2 likely to cause an argument;

controversial.
contiguous touching, especially along a line; in contact with.
continuum anything seen as having a continuous, not discrete,
structure (space-time continuum).
contrail a condensation trail, especially from an aircraft,
contumacious insubordinate; stubbornly disobedient, especially to a
court order.
contumely insolent or reproachful language or treatment.
contusion a bruise.
conversant well experienced or acquainted with.
convoluted 1 coiled, twisted. 2 complex, intricate.
cony (also coney) a rabbit.
coprophagous Zool. dung-eating.
cordilleraa system of parallel mountain ranges with intervening
plateaux etc., especially of the Andes.
cordovan a kind of soft leather.
comiche a coastal road cut into the edge of a cliff.
corposant a luminous electric charge sometimes seen on a ship or
aircraft during a storm.
corrida a bullfight.
corrigenda errors to be corrected in a printed book.
corsair a pirate, or pirate ship, especially formerly along the Barbary
coast.
coruscate to sparkle; be brilliant.
corybantic wild, frenzied.
costive constipated.
coterminous having the same boundaries in space, time, or meaning
with.
countervail to counterbalance; oppose forcefully and usually
successfully.
couvade a custom by which a father appears to undergo labour and
childbirth when his child is being bom.
coven an assembly of witches.
cozen to cheat, defraud, beguile.
crambo a game in which a player gives a word or verse-line to which
each of the others must find a rhyme.
cran a measure for fresh herrings (3 7'/2 gallons).
crapulent drunk, or resulting from drunkenness,
crepitate to make a crackling sound.
508 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

crepuscular 1 of twilight; dim. 2 appearing or active in twilight,

cromlech 1 a dolmen; a megalithic tomb. 2 a circle of upright
prehistoric stones.
crosier a bishop’s staff.
cruralAnat. of the leg.
crux 1 the decisive point at issue. 2 a difficult matter; a puzzle,
a chair on which disorderly women were ducked as a
cucking-stool
punishment.
cudbear a purple dye derived from lichen.
culminate to reach the highest or final point (the antagonism culminated
in war).
cuneiformthe wedge-shaped writing impressed usually in clay in
ancient Babylonian etc. inscriptions.
curmudgeon a bad-tempered person.
cursive (of writing) done with joined characters.
cursory hasty, hurried (a cursory glance).
cuspidor US a spitton.
cutaneous of the skin.
cwm a bowl-shaped hollow in the side of a hill.

D
dacha a Russian country house or cottage.
dacoit a member of a gang of armed robbers in India or Myanmar,
daedal 1 skilful; inventive. 2 (of the earth etc.) variously adorned,
dalmatic a wide-sleeved long loose ecclesiastical vestment.
daltonism colour-blindness, especially the inability to distinguish
between red and green.
dariolea savoury or sweet dish cooked and served in a small cup-shaped
mould.
dauphin the eldest son of the King of France.
deadlight 1 a shutter inside a ship’s porthole. 2 US a skylight that
cannot be opened.
deasil clockwise.
debacle a sudden utter defeat or collapse.
debouch (of troops, a river, a road, etc.) to issue forth into an open area,
decanal of a dean or deanery.
decani (of music) to be sung by the south side of a church choir in
antiphonal singing (compare c a n t o r is ).
deckle a device in a paper-making machine that limits the size of the
sheet, leaving a rough edge.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 509

decorticate to remove the bark, husk, or other outside layer from,

decretal a papal decree.
dedans the open gallery at the end of the service side of a real tennis
court.
deemster a judge in the Isle of Man.
deeping each of the fathom-deep sections of a fishing net.
defalcation 1 misappropriation of money. 2 a shortcoming,
defeasance the act or process of rendering null and void,
defenestration the action of throwing (especially a person) out of a
window.
defilade to secure (a fortification) against gunfire.
deft neatly skilful or dexterous; adroit.
deglutition the act of swallowing,
degust to taste attentively; savour.
deign to think fit; condescend.
deipnosophist a master of the art of dining,
delation reporting of an offence; impeachment.
delectation pleasure, enjoyment (sang for his delectation).
deleterious harmful to the mind or body.
demagogue 1 a political agitator appealing to the basest instincts of a
mob. 2 a leader of the people in ancient times.
deme 1 a political or administrative division in both ancient and
modem Greece. 2 a local population of closely related plants or
animals.
demesne 1 a domain. 2 landed property attached to a mansion etc.
demiurge 1 according to Plato, the creator of the universe. 2 in
Gnosticism etc., a heavenly being subordinate to the Supreme Being,
demivierge a woman of suspected unchastity who is still physiologically
a virgin.
demographythe study of the statistics of births, deaths, diseases, etc. in
a community.
dendrite 1 a mineral with natural treelike markings. 2 a branching
treelike crystal. 3 a branching outgrowth on a nerve cell.
denigrate to defame or disparage (someone’s character); blacken,
denizen 1 aforeigner admitted to certain rights in the adopted
countiy. 2 a naturalized word, animal, or plant.
deodand a personal chattel forfeited to the Crown for pious uses,
deontic of or relating to moral duty and obligation.
depilate to remove the hair from.
510 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

(of troops) to spread out from a column into a line. 2 to bring

deploy 1
(arguments etc.) into effective action.
depredations despoiling, ravaging, or plundering,
deracinate to tear up by the roots.
dermabrasion the surgical removal of some layers of the skin with a
revolving tool.
derogate (from) 1 to take away a part from; detract from (a merit, right,
etc.). 2 to deviate from (correct behaviour etc.)
desalinate to remove salt from (especially sea water),
desiccate to dry out (especially food for preservation) (desiccated coconut).
desiderate to feel to be missing; regret the absence of; wish to have,
desist to abstain, cease (please desist from interrupting).
desuetude a state of disuse.
going half-heartedly from one subject to another;
desultory
unmethodical and superficial.
detent 1 a catch whose removal allows machinery to move. 2 a catch
that regulates striking in a clock.
deuteragonist the second most important person in a drama.
Devanagari the alphabet used for Sanskrit, Hindi, and other Indian
languages.
dewlap the loose fold of skin hanging from the throats of cattle, dogs,
etc., or of old people.
dexter one of a small hardy breed of Irish cattle (and see h e r a l d r y ).
dharma Indian 1 social custom; the right behaviour. 2 the Buddhist
truth. 3 the Hindu social or moral law.
dhobi a washerman or washerwoman in India.
diacritical distinguishing; distinctive.
(US dieresis) a mark (as in naive) over a vowel to indicate that it
diaeresis
is sounded separately.
dianetics the system of mental therapy associated with Scientology,
diaphanous (of fabric etc.) light and delicate and almost transparent,
diaphoresis sweating, especially artificially induced.
diaphysis Anat. the shaft of a long bone.
Diaspora the dispersion of the Jews among the Gentiles, or any group of
people similarly scattered.
diastema 1 an interval in ancient Greek music. 2 a space between two
teeth.
diatribe a forceful verbal attack; a piece of bitter criticism.
dichotomy 1 a sharp division into two. 2 binary classification. 3 Bot. &
Zool. repeated bifurcation.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 511

dictum a formal utterance, saying, or maxim.

didicoy slang a gypsy; an itinerant tinker.
diktat a categorical decree, especially one imposed by a victor after a
war.
dilatory given to or causing delay.
dilettante a person who studies a subject superficially,
dimity cotton fabric woven with stripes or checks.
dipnoan a fish with both gills and lungs.
dirigible a balloon or airship that can be guided,
discobolus a discus-thrower in ancient Greece,
discombobulate US slang to disturb, disconcert,
discrepancy difference; a failure to correspond; inconsistency,
discrete individually distinct; separate, discontinuous.
discursive 1 rambling or disgressive. 2 based on argument or reasoning
rather than on immediate insight.
disembogue (of a river etc.) to pour forth (waters) at the mouth,
disparage 1 to speak slightingly of; depreciate. 2 to bring discredit on.
disparity inequality; difference; incongruity.
disquisition a long or elaborate treatise or discourse on a subject,
distich a pair of verse lines; a couplet.
dittography a copyist’s mistaken repetition of a letter, word, or phrase,
diuretic causing increased output of urine.
divot a piece of turf cut out, as by a golf club in making a stroke,
doge the chief magistrate of the former States of Venice or Genoa,
dolmen a prehistoric tomb with a large flat stone laid on two upright
ones.
dolorous 1 distressing, painful; doleful, dismal. 2 distressed, sad.
dominie a Scottish schoolmaster.
dorsal 1 of or on the back. 2 ridge-shaped.
dortour (also dorter) a dormitory in a monastery.
do-se-do(also do-si-do) a figure in which two dancers pass round each
other back to back and return to their original positions.
dotal pertaining to a woman’s dowry.
dottie a remnant of burnt tobacco in a pipe,
doxology a hymn or verse of praise to God.
Draconian (of laws, etc.) very harsh or severe.
dragoman an interpreter or guide, especially in countries speaking
Arabic, Turkish, or Persian.
512 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

draila fish-hook or line weighted with lead for dragging below the
surface of the water.
dressage the training of a horse in obedience and deportment,
especially for competition.
drogue 1 a buoy at the end of a harpoon line, or a sea anchor. 2 a
funnel-shaped fabric device used as a wind-sock, a target for gunneiy,
etc.
dryad in Greek mythology, a nymph inhabiting a tree; a wood nymph,
ductile 1(of a metal) capable of being drawn into wire. 2 (of a
substance) easily moulded. 3 (of a person) docile, gullible.
duenna an older woman acting as a governess or companion in charge
of girls, especially in a Spanish family; a chaperone.
dugong a marine mammal of Asian seas; the sea cow.
dulcet (especially of a sound) sweet and soothing,
dundrearies long side-whiskers worn without a beard,
dunnock the common hedge sparrow.
dysphetnism the substitution of an unpleasant or derogatory expression
for a pleasant or harmless one (opp. e u ph e m is m ).
dysphoria unease; mental discomfort.
dystopia an imaginaiy place or condition in which everything is as bad
as possible (opp. u t o pia ).

E
eagre a high tidal wave rushing up a narrow estuaiy; a bore,
ebullient exuberant, high-spirited.
ecdysiast a strip-teaser.
echinoderm a marine invertebrate usually with a spiny skin, e.g. starfish
and sea urchins.
eclectic 1 deriving ideas, tastes, style, etc. from, various sources.
2 selecting one’s beliefs etc. from various sources; attached to no
particular school of philosophy.
eclogue a short poem, especially a pastoral dialogue.
ectoplasm the supposed semi-fluid substance issuing from the body of a
spiritualistic medium during a trance.
ecumene a nuclear centre of dense population and high culture,
ecumenical seeking or promoting worldwide Christian unity,
edacious voracious; greedy.
effendi a former title of respect for a man of standing in Turkey.
effete 1 feeble and incapable. 2 worn out; exhausted of its essential
quality or vitality.
efficacious (of a thing) producing or sure to produce the desired effect.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 513

effluvium an unpleasant smell or exhaled substance affecting the lungs,

effulgent radiant; shining brilliantly.
egregious outstandingly bad; shocking (egregious folly; an egregious ass).
eidetic(of a mental image) having unusual vividness and detail, as if
actually visible.
eidolon 1 a spectre; phantom. 2 an idealized figure.
eirenicon a proposal made as a means of achieving peace.
eisteddfod a congress of Welsh bards; a national or local festival for
musical competitions etc.
elation high spirits.
eld old age.
electuary medicinal powder etc. mixed with something sweet,
eleemosynary 1 of alms; charitable. 2 gratuitous.
elucidate to throw light on; explain.
elude 1 to escape adroitly from (a danger, difficulty, pursuer, etc.);
dodge. 2 to avoid compliance with (a law). 3 (of a fact, solution, etc.)
to baffle (a person’s memory or understanding).
emanate to issue or originate (from).
emasculate 1 to deprive of force or vigour; make feeble or ineffective.
2 to castrate.
embroil 1 to involve (a person) in conflict or difficulties. 2 to bring
(affairs) into confusion.
emmetropia the normal condition of the eye; perfect vision.
emollient something that soothes and softens the skin.
empennage an arrangement of stabilizing surfaces at the tail of an
aircraft.
based on observation, not on theory; deriving knowledge
empirical
from experience alone.
empyrean 1the highest heaven, as the sphere of fire in ancient
cosmology or as the abode of God in early Christianity. 2 the visible
heavens.
emulate to try to equal or excel; imitate zealously.
encaenia an annual celebration in memory of founders and
benefactors, especially at Oxford University.
enchiridion a handbook.
A
enclave 1 a part of a foreign country surrounded by territory of
another (compare e x c l a v e ). 2 a group of people who are culturally
etc. distinct from those surrounding them.
encomium a formal or high-flown expression of praise.
encryption the conversion of data into code.
514 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

endemic (of a disease, plant, etc.) regularly or only found among a

particular people or in a certain region.
endorphin any of a group of pain-reducing substances occurring
naturally in the brain.
energumen an enthusiast or fanatic.
enfilade gunfire directed along a line from end to end at troops, a road,
etc.
ensconce to establish or settle (oneself) comfortably, safely, or secretly,
entourage 1 thepeople attending an important person.
2 surroundings.
enzooticregularly affecting animals in a particular district or at a
particular season.
Eonism transvestism, especially by a man.
eparchy a province of the Orthodox Church.
ephemeris an astronomical almanac.
epicene 1 having characteristics of both sexes or of neither; neuter.
2 effete, effeminate.
epigone one of a later and less distinguished generation; an inferior
follower.
epitomea person or thing embodying a quality, class, etc.; a typical
example.
eponymous of or being the person after whom something is named
(Macbeth is the eponymous hero of the play).
epyllion a miniature epic poem.
equilibrist an acrobat, especially on a tightrope.
equilibrium1 the state of physical balance. 2 mental or emotional
equanimity. 3 a state in which the energy in a system is evenly
distributed and forces, influences, etc. balance each other.
equivocate to use double meaning or inexactness to conceal the truth,
eremite a hermit or recluse.
sensitivity to sexual stimulation. 2 abnormal
erethism 1 excessive
mental excitement or irritation.
ergonomics the study of human efficiency in the working environment,
ergot a fungus causing a disease of cereals, used as a medicine to aid
childbirth.
erinaceous of or like a hedgehog.
(of an argument or arguer) aiming at winning rather than at
eristic
reaching the truth; disputatious.
erogenous (especially of a part of the body) sensitive to sexual
stimulation.
erubescence blushing.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 515

eructation belching.
eschar a brown or black layer of dead skin, caused by a burn etc.
escheat in former times, the reversion of property to the State, or to a
feudal lord, on the owner’s dying without legal heirs.
esculent fit to eat; edible.
esemplastic moulding into unity; unifying.
esotericintelligible only to the initiated or those with special
knowledge.
espalier a lattice work along which trees or shrubs are trained to grow
flat against a wall; or a tree or shrub grown in this way.
espieglerie frolicsomeness.
estovers necessaries formerly allowed by law to a tenant (e.g. fuel, or
wood for repairs).
esurient 1 hungry. 2 impecunious and greedy.
eth the name of an old English and Icelandic letter, /d/ = th.
ethereal 1 light, airy. 2 highly delicate, especially in appearance.
3 heavenly, celestial. 4 of or relating to ether.
ethos the characteristic spirit or attitudes of a community, people, or
system, or of a literary work etc.
etiolated pale and sickly.
eupeptic of or having a good digestion.
euphoria a feeling of well-being, especially one based on over-confidence
or over-optimism.
evanescent (of an impression or appearance etc.) quickly fading.
evince to make (a quality) evident (evinced indignation).
exacerbate 1 to make (pain, anger, etc.) worse. 2 to irritate (a person).
excerpt a short extract from a book, film, piece of music, etc.
exclavea part of one’s own country surrounded by territory of another
(compare e n c l a v e ).
excoriate 1 to rub, strip, or peel off (skin). 2 to censure severely.
exculpate to free (a person) from blame; clear of a charge.
execrable abominable, detestable.
exegesis critical explanation of a text, especially of Scripture.
exemplar 1 a model or pattern. 2 a typical instance of something,
exigent urgent, pressing, exacting.
exiguous scanty, small.
exonerate 1 to free or declare free from blame etc. 2 to release from a
duty.
exorbitant (of a price, demand, etc.) grossly excessive.
516 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

exorcize to drive out (a supposed evil spirit) by holy words, or free (a

person or place) from such a spirit.
expedite to hasten (an action etc.); accomplish (business) quickly,
expiate to pay the penalty for (wrongdoing); make amends for.
expletive a swear-word used in an exclamation.
exponent a person who favours, promotes, or interprets something,
expunge to erase, remove (especially a passage from a book or a name
from a list).
extenuate to lessen the seeming seriousness of (guilt) by showing some
mitigating factor (extenuating circumstances).
extirpate to root out; destroy completely.
exordium the introductory part of a discourse or treatise.
exude 1 to (cause to) ooze out; emit, give off. 2 to display (an emotion
etc.) freely (exuded displeasure).
eyas a young hawk, especially one taken from the nest for training in
falconry.
eyot an ait.
eyrie (also aerie) a nest of an eagle or other bird of prey, built high up.

F
fabulist 1 a composer of fables. 2 a liar.
facetious intending to be amusing; flippant.
(of speech, writing, theories, etc.) easily achieved but of little
facile
value; fluent, glib.
factitious not genuine or natural.
factotum an employee who does all kinds of work.
famulus an attendant on a magician or medieval scholar.
fard make-up; cosmetics.
fartlek a method of training for running, mixing fast with slow work,
fasces 1 the bundle of rods with an axe, carried by a lictor in ancient
Rome as a symbol of a magistrate’s power. 2 the emblems of authority
in Fascist Italy.
fascicle 1 a separately published instalment of a book. 2 a bunch or
bundle of fibres etc.
fatwa an authoritative Islamic ruling on a religious matter.
faucal of the throat, especially guttural.
favela a Brazilian shack or slum.
faveolate honeycombed, cellular.
febrile of fever; feverish.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 517

feculent murky; containing sediments or dregs.

feisty US slang aggressive, exuberant.
fenestra a small hole in a bone etc., especially in the inner ear.
fenks the fibrous parts of a whale’s blubber.
feral1 (of an animal or plant) wild, untamed, uncultivated. 2 (of an
animal) living in a wild state after escape from captivity or
domesticity. 3 brutal.
ferial (of a day) ordinary; not a religious festival or fast day.
Festschrift a collection of writings published in honour of a scholar,
fetlock part of the back of a horse’s leg above the hoof where a tuft of
hair grows.
fibrillate 1(of a fibre) to split up. 2 (of a muscle, especially in the heart)
to quiver.
filibuster 1to obstruct progress in a legislative assembly by making
long speeches. 2 (formerly) to engage in unauthorized warfare against
a foreign State.
finocchio a kind of dwarf fennel.
fipple a plug at the mouth end of a wind instrument.
firkin a small cask for liquids, butter, fish, etc.
firmament the sky regarded as a vault or arch.
firman an oriental sovereign’s edict, grant, or permit.
fisc the Roman emperor’s privy purse.
fissile 1 capable of undergoing nuclear fission. 2 tending to split,
flaccid limp, flabby, drooping.
flagitious deeply criminal; utterly villainous.
fleer to laugh impudently or mockingly; sneer, jeer.
flense to cut up (a whale or seal).
flews the hanging lips of a bloodhound etc.
flocculent like tufts of wool; downy.
flume 1 an artificial channel conveying water etc. for industrial use.
2 a ravine with a stream.

flustra sea matweed.

fontanelle a membraneous space at the top of an infant’s skull,
forensic used in connection with courts of law (forensic medicine).
formic relating to ants.
fortuitous due to chance; accidental, casual.
thundering or dazzling.
foudroyant 1 2 (of a disease) beginning
suddenly and severely.
fouette a quick whipping movement of the raised leg in ballet.
518 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

fox-fire US the phosphorescent light emitted by decaying timber.

fraise1 a ruff, as worn in the 16th century. 2 a horizontal or sloping
palisade for defence. 3 a tool for enlarging a round hole, or for
cutting teeth in a wheel.
frass the refuse or excrement left by insects.
frenetic frantic, frenzied.
freshet 1 a rush of fresh water flowing into the sea. 2 the flooding of a
river.
friable easily crumbled.
frisketa thin iron frame keeping the sheet in position during printing
on a hand-press.
froward perverse; difficult to deal with.
frugivorous feeding on fruit.
fugacious fleeting, evanescent; hard to capture or keep.
fulgurationthe destruction of tissue (e.g. warts) by means of high-
voltage electric sparks.
fuliginous sooty, dusky.
fulvous reddish-yellow, tawny.
fumarole an opening in a volcano, through which hot vapours emerge,
fumatory a place for smoking or fumigating purposes.
funambulist a rope-walker.
furcula a forked bone, e.g. the wishbone.
furuncle a boil.
fustanella a man’s stiff white kilt worn in Albania and Greece.
futhorc the Scandinavian runic alphabet.
futon a Japanese quilted mattress rolled out on the floor for use as a
bed.
fylfot a swastika.
fyrd the English militia before 1066.

G
gadroona decoration on silverware etc., consisting of convex curves
forming an edge like inverted fluting.
gaff 1 a hooked stick for landing large fish. 2 a spar to which the head
of a fore-and-aft sail is attached.
gaffe a social blunder.
galliard a lively dance usually in triple time for two people.
galligaskins breeches or trousers, originally as worn in the 16th-17th
centuries.
gallimaufry a heterogeneous mixture; a jumble.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 519

gambade 1 a leap or bound of a horse. 2 a prank, freak, frolic,

gamelanan orchestra of SE Asia (especially Indonesia) with strings,
woodwind, and many percussion instruments.
gammadion a decorative pattern formed of combinations of the Greek
letter gamma.
ganglion 1 a nerve-nucleus, or assemblage of nerve-cells. 2 a cyst,
especially on a tendon sheath.
gangue valueless earth etc. in which ore is found.
ganja marijuana.
garbanzo the chickpea.
Garda the State police force of the Irish Republic.
garrotte to strangle, especially with an iron or wire collar.
garth 1an open space between cloisters. 2 an old word for a yard or
garden.
gavage force-feeding with a pump and a tube passing into the stomach,
gavel an auctioneer’s or chairman’s hammer.
gavelkind 1a Kentish form of land-tenure. 2 any of various ways of
dividing up the property of a deceased man.
gazump (of a seller) to raise the price of a property after having
accepted an offer from (an intending buyer).
geek an American fairground entertainer whose act often includes
biting the head off a live chicken, snake, etc.
gelation solidification by freezing.
geminate combined in pairs.
gemot a judicial or legislative assembly in Anglo-Saxon England,
genuflect to bend the knee, especially in worship or as a sign of respect.
Georgic relating to agriculture.
germane relevant (to) a subject under consideration.
gerrymanderto manipulate the boundaries of (a constituency etc.) to
the undue advantage of a party or class.
gestate 1 to carry (a foetus) in the womb. 2 to develop (an idea etc.),
ghat 1 the steps leading down to an Indian river. 2 an Indian mountain
pass or chain.
ghee Indian clarified butter.
gheraoin India and Pakistan, coercion of employers, by which their
workers prevent them from leaving the premises until certain
demands are met.
ghyll a narrow mountain torrent in a ravine.
gibbous 1 convex, protuberant. 2 (of a moon or planet) between half
and full.
520 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

gibus a man’s tall collapsible hat.

gigota leg of mutton or lamb.
gimmal a ring made of two linked rings.
gingili sesame seed or its oil.
gingivae the gums.
ginglymus a hingelike joint, as in the elbow or knee, with motion in
one plane only.
ginnel a long narrow passage between houses.
girandole 1 a revolving cluster of fireworks. 2 a branched candlestick.
3 an earring or pendant with a large stone surrounded by small ones,
gismo slang a gadget.
glabrous hairless; smooth-skinned.
glacis a bank sloping down from a fort.
glair(also glaire) 1 white of egg. 2 glue made from this, used in
bookbinding etc.
glaive a broadsword.
glasnost (in the former Soviet Union) the policy or practice of more
open consultative government and wider dissemination of
information.
glaucous 1 of a dull greyish green or blue. 2 covered with a powdery
bloom as of grapes.
glebe a piece of land granted to a clergyman as part of his benefice,
glendoveer one of a race of beautiful sprites in Southey’s quasi-Hindu
mythology.
glossal of the tongue.
gluteal of the buttocks.
gnathic of the jaws.
gnomic of or using aphorisms; sententious.
gnomon the rod etc. on a sundial that shows the time.
gnosis knowledge of spiritual mysteries.
gobemouche a gullible listener.
gobo a portable screen used to deflect light in filming.
goety sorcery; necromancy.
gofer US slang someone who runs errands; a dogsbody.
goffer to crimp, make wavy (a lace edge, a trimming, etc.) with a hot
iron.
goliard an educated medieval jester and author of loose or satirical
Latin verses.
gombeen Irish usury.
gombroon a kind of Persian pottery.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 521

gonfalon a banner, often with streamers, hung from a crossbar,

googly an off-break ball in cricket, deceptively bowled with apparent
leg-break action.
gorget la a piece of armour for the throat, b a woman’s wimple. 2 a
patch of colour on the throat of a bird, insect, etc.
gorgonize to stare at so as to paralyse with fear.
grabble to sprawl on the floor and grope about to feel for something.
gradine 1 each of a series of low steps or a tier of seats. 2 a ledge at the
back of an altar.
grallatorial of long-legged wading birds, e.g. flamingos.
gralloch to disembowel (a dead deer etc.).
graminivorous feeding on grass, cereals, etc.
grangerize to illustrate (a book) by sticking in pictures.
gravamen the most serious part of an argument or grievance.
greaves armour for the shins.
Greek Calends never.
gregarious fond of company.
grilse a young salmon that has returned to fresh water from the sea for
the first time.
grommet a metal, plastic, or rubber eyelet fitted in a hole to protect a
rope or cable etc.
groundling 1 a plant or animal that lives near the ground. 2 someone
on the ground and not in an aircraft. 3 a spectator or reader of
inferior taste.
grout a thin fluid mortar for filling gaps in tiling etc.
groyne a low wall built out from a shore to check erosion of a beach.
guacamole a salad or dip of mashed avocado mixed with onion,
tomato, chilli, etc.
guano the excrement of sea-fowl, used as manure.
gubernatorial (especially US) of or relating to a governor.
guddle to catch fish with the hands.
gudgeon 1 a pivot working a wheel, bell, etc. 2 the tubular part of a
hinge into which the pin fits to effect a joint. 3 a socket at the stern
of a boat that holds the rudder.
guidona pointed or forked pennant, especially one used as the
standard of a regiment of dragoons.
guimpe a high-necked underblouse to be worn with a low-necked dress
or pinafore dress.
gular of the throat or gullet.
gulosity gluttony.
522 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

gustatory of the sense of taste.

guttate having droplike markings; speckled.
guttler a glutton.
gymnotus an electric eel.
gynaecomastia enlargement of a man’s breasts, usually due to hormone
imbalance or hormone therapy.

H
haaf a deep-sea fishing ground,
habergeon a sleeveless coat of mail,
habile skilful, deft, dexterous.
hachures parallel lines used in hill-shading on maps, their closeness
indicating the steepness of gradient.
hacienda(in Spanish-speaking countries) an estate or plantation with a
dwelling-house, or a factory.
hagiography the writing of the lives of saints.
haik, haick an outer covering for head and body worn by Arabs,
haiku a Japanese three-part poem of usually 17 syllables,
hajji (also haji) a Muslim who has been to Mecca as a pilgrim,
haka a Maori ceremonial war dance accompanied by chanting,
halal to kill (an animal) as prescribed by Muslim law.
halitosis bad breath.
halitus vapour, exhalation.
hallux the big toe; or the corresponding digit in vertebrates.
hames the two curved iron or wooden pieces forming the collar of a
draught-horse, to which the traces are attached.
haplography the accidental omission of letters when these are repeated
in a word (e.g. philogy for philology).
haptic relating to the sense of touch.
hara-kiri ritual suicide by disembowelment with a sword, formerly
practised by Samurai to avoid dishonour.
haras a breeding station for horses; a stud.
harbinger a forerunner that announces the approach of something
(crocuses are harbingers of spring).
Harijan a member of the untouchable class in India.
harmala the plant wild rue.
harpy 1 (in Greek and Roman mythology) a monster with a woman’s
head and body and a bird’s wings and claws. 2 a grasping
unscrupulous person.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 523

haruspex a Roman religious official who interpreted omens by

inspecting animals’ entrails.
hasletpieces of (especially pig’s) offal cooked together and usually
compressed into a meat loaf.
haulm (also halm) a stalk or stem of peas, beans, potatoes, etc.
havelock a covering for the cap, with a flap hanging over the neck as
protection from the sun.
hebdomadal eveiy week, weekly,
hebetude dullness.
hecatomb a great public sacrifice in ancient Greece or Rome, originally
of 100 oxen.
heddle one of the sets of small cords or wires between which the warp
is passed in a loom.
hedonism belief in pleasure as the highest good and mankind’s proper
aim.
hegemony leadership, especially by one State of a confederacy,
heinous (of a crime or criminal) utterly odious or wicked,
helot a serf, of a class in ancient Sparta.
helve the handle of a weapon or tool,
hemeralopia difficulty in seeing by daylight; day-blindness,
henge a prehistoric monument such as Stonehenge, consisting of a
circle of massive uprights.
hepatic 1 of the liver. 2 dark brownish-red; liver-coloured.
heriot a tribute formerly paid to a lord on the death of a tenant,
consisting of an animal, a chattel, etc.
herm a squared stone pillar with a head (especially of the god Hermes)
on top, used by the ancient Greeks as a boundaiy marker etc.
hermeneutic concerning interpretation, especially of Scripture or
literaiy texts.
hetman a Polish or Cossack military commander.
heuristic allowing or assisting to discover (and see c o m pu t e r s ).
hiatus a break or gap in a series etc.
hibachi a portable Japanese pan or brazier in which charcoal is burnt
for cooking or to heat a room.
hickwall the green woodpecker.
hidalgo a Spanish gentleman. *
hidrosis perspiration.
hierophant an interpreter of sacred mysteries.
a worthless or vicious beast.
hilding 1 2 a contemptible or worthless
person of either sex.
524 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS____________________

hinny (also hinnie) the offspring of a female donkey and a male horse,
hippocampus 1 a sea horse. 2 the elongated ridges on the floor of each
lateral ventricle of the brain, thought to be the centre of emotion and
the involuntary nervous system.
hippocras wine flavoured with spices.
hirsute haiiy, shaggy.
hoggin a mixture of sand and gravel.
holistic 1 regarding the whole as greater than the sum of its parts.
2 giving medical treatment to the whole person rather than just to
the symptoms of a disease.
holt 1 an animal’s (especially an otter’s) lair. 2 a wood or copse.
homily a sermon or tedious moralizing discourse.
hominid any member of the primate family Hominidae, including
humans and their fossil ancestors.
homocentric having the same centre,
homunculus a little man, a manikin.
hone a whetstone, especially for razors.
hoplite a heavily armed foot soldier of ancient Greece.
horripilation goose-flesh.
hoveller an unlicensed boatman, especially on the Kentish coast,
howdah a seat for two or more, usually with a canopy, for riding on the
back of an elephant or camel.
hoyden a boisterous girl.
hubble-bubblea rudimentary kind of hookah, the oriental tobacco pipe
with a tube passing through water to cool the smoke.
hubris arrogant pride or presumption.
humectant a substance, especially a food additive, used to retain
moisture.
humidor a room or container for keeping cigars or tobacco moist,
hurling an Irish game rather like hockey, played with broad sticks,
hustings 1parliamentary election proceedings. 2 a platform from
which, before 1872, parliamentary candidates were nominated and
addressed electors.
hwylan emotional quality inspiring impassioned eloquence, as in a
Welsh poet.
hymeneal of or concerning marriage.
hyperborean of the extreme north of the earth.
hypnagogic inducing sleep, or accompanying the drowsy state leading
to sleep.
hypocaust a hollow space under the floor of an ancient Roman house,
into which hot air was sent for heating a room or bath.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 525

hypocorism a pet name.

hypothecate to pledge, mortgage.

I
iatrogenic (of a disease etc.) caused by medical examination or
treatment.
ichor in Greek mythology, fluid flowing like blood in the veins of the
gods.
icon 1 a devotional painting or carving, usually on wood, of Christ or
another holy figure, especially in the Eastern Church. 2 an image or
statue.
iconoclastic destructive of holy images or of cherished beliefs.
ideogram a character symbolizing the idea of a thing without
indicating the sequence of sounds in its name (e.g. a numeral, and
many Chinese characters).
idiosyncrasy a mental constitution, view, feeling, or foible peculiar to a
person.
idioticon a dictionary confined to a particular dialect, or containing
words and phrases peculiar to one part of a country.
idolum a mental image; a phantom or fallacy.
ignominious 1 causing or deserving dishonour. 2 humiliating.
ikebana the art ofJapanese flower arrangement.
illation a deduction or conclusion.
illicit unlawful, forbidden (illicit dealings).
illuminati people claiming to have special enlightenment.
imagism a movement in early 20th-century poetiy which sought clarity
of expression through the use of precise images.
imam 1 a leader of prayers in a mosque. 2 a title of various Muslim
leaders, especially one succeeding Muhammad as leader of Islam.
imbricate to arrange (leaves, scales of a fish, etc.) so as to overlap like
roof tiles.
imbroglio a confused or complicated situation.
imbrue to stain (one’s hands, sword, etc.).
immanent 1 indwelling, inherent. 2 (of the supreme being)
permanently pervading the universe (opp. t r a n s c e n d e n t ).
immarcescible unfading; incorruptible, imperishable.
immiscible that cannot be mixed.
immolate to kill or offer as a sacrifice.
immortelle a papery flower that keeps its shape and texture when dried,
impanate contained or embodied in bread.
impecunious having little or no money.
 526 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

impedimenta 1 encumbrances. 2 travelling equipment, especially of an

army.
impinge to make an impact, have an effect or encroach on.
implode to (cause to) burst inwards.
impost 1 a tax, duty, or tribute. 2 a weight carried by a horse in a
handicap race.
imprest money advanced to someone for use in State business,
imprimatur an official licence by the Roman Catholic church to print a
book.
impugn to challenge (a statement, action, etc.); call in question,
inane silly, senseless.
incarnate 1 embodied in flesh, especially in human form (is the devil
incarnate). 2 represented in a recognizable or typical form (folly
incarnate).
• inchoate undeveloped, rudimentary.
incipient beginning; in an initial stage.
incivism lack of good citizenship.
incommunicado 1 without or deprived of the means of communication
with others. 2 (of a prisoner) in solitary confinement.
incubus 1 an evil spirit supposed to lie on sleeping people, especially to
have intercourse with sleeping women. 2 a nightmare, or something
that oppresses like a nightmare.
inculpate 1 to involve in a charge. 2 to accuse, blame.
incunabula books printed very early, especially before 1501.
incursion an invasion or attack, especially when sudden or brief,
indite 1 to put (a speech etc.) into words. 2 to write (a letter etc.),
induct 1 to introduce formally into possession of a benefice. 2 to install
(a person) into a room, position, etc.
indurate to harden.
ineffable 1 unutterable; too great for description in words. 2 too sacred
to be uttered.
ineluctable unescapable.
infanta a daughter of the ruling monarch of Spain or Portugal, usually
the eldest daughter who is not heir to the throne.
infarcta small localized area of dead tissue caused by an inadequate
blood supply.
infibulationthe fastening up of the sexual organs with a clasp etc., to
prevent sexual intercourse.
inguinal of the groin.
Insolation exposure to the sun’s rays, especially for bleaching,
insouciant carefree, unconcerned.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 527

inspissate to thicken, condense.

installation restoration, renewal.
insurgent a rebel, a revolutionary.
integument a natural outer covering: a skin, rind, husk, etc.
intercalary (of a day or month) inserted in the calendar to harmonize it
with the solar year, e.g. 29 February in leap years.
interim the time between two events (in the interim he had died).
internecine mutually destructive.
interregnum an interval between successive reigns or regimes, when the
normal government is suspended.
intinctionthe dipping of the Eucharistic bread in the wine so that the
communicant receives both together.
inveigh to speak or write with strong hostility against.
involute curled spirally, or rolled inwards at the edges,
irascible irritable; hot-tempered.
iridescent showing rainbow-like luminous or gleaming colours:
shimmering.
irredentist a person, especially in 19th-century Italy, advocating the
restoration to his or her country of any territory formerly belonging
to it.
irrefragable 1 (of a statement, argument, or person) unanswerable,
indisputable. 2 (of rules etc.) inviolable.
irrefutable impossible to refute or disprove.
irrision derision, mockery.
irrupt to enter forcibly or violently into.
isocheim a line on a map connecting places having the same average
temperature in winter.
isomorphic having exactly the same form and relations.
istle fibre used for cord, nets, etc., obtained from the plant agave,
iterate to repeat; state repeatedly.
izard a chamois.
izzard an old name for the letter Z.

J
jabot an ornamental frill or lace ruffle on the front of a shirt or blouse,
jacobus an English gold coin struck in the reign ofJames I.
jacquerie the French peasants’ revolt against the nobles in 1357-8.
jalousie a blind made of a row of angled slats.
janizary (also janissary) a member of the Turkish infantry forming the
Sultan’s guard in the 14th-19th centuries.
 528 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

jarl a Norse or Danish chief.

jejune 1 (of ideas etc.) shallow, meagre, sparse. 2 (of the land) barren,
poor.
jennet a small Spanish horse.
jeofail a mistake in a legal proceeding.
jeopardy danger, especially of severe harm or loss, or of conviction
when on trial for a criminal offence.
jeremiad a doleful lamentation; a list of woes.
jeroboam a wine bottle of 4-12 times the ordinary size.
jerque to examine a ship’s papers when checking the cargo for customs,
jeton a metal disc used, chiefly in France, instead of a coin for insertion
in a public telephone box.
(also jehad) a holy war undertaken by Muslims against
■' jihad
unbelievers.
jingoism blustering patriotism in favour of war.
jocose 1 playful in style. 2 fond of joking; jocular.
jokul a permanently snow-covered mountain.
jugate having paired parts joined together.
juggernaut 1 a huge overwhelming force or object. 2 in Britain, a large
heavy motor vehicle, especially an articulated lorry.
jugular of the neck or throat (jugular vein).
jugulate to kill by cutting the throat.
ju-ju a charm or fetish of some West African peoples.
jumbal a kind of sweet crisp cake.
junta a political or military group taking power after a revolution,
juxtapose to place side by side, especially for the sake of comparison,
jynx 1 a bird, the wryneck. 2 a charm or spell.

K
kabuki a form of popular traditional Japanese drama with highly
stylized song, acted by males only.
kamikaze 1 a Japanese aircraft of World War II that was loaded with
explosives and deliberately crashed on the target. 2 its suicide pilot.
kampong a Malayan enclosure or village.
kanaka a South Sea Islander, especially one of those formerly employed
in forced labour in Australia.
kanga a patterned cotton cloth worn as a woman’s garment in East
Africa.
kaolinfine soft white clay used especially for making porcelain and in
medicines; china clay.
 A LEXICON OF HARO WORDS 529

I kapok a firm fibrous cotton-like substance found surrounding the seeds

of a tropical tree, Ceiba pentandra, used for stuffing things.
I kaput slang broken, ruined, done for.
I karma in Buddhism and Hinduism, the sum of a person’s actions in
previous lives, viewed as determining his or her future: one’s fate or
destiny.
I kaross a sleeveless hairy mantle worn by Hottentots and other South
African Negroid peoples.
■ kazoo a toy musical instrument that buzzes when the player sings or
hums into it.
; keelhaul 1 to drag (a person) under the keel of a ship as a
punishment. 2 to scold severely.
keffiyeh an Arab headscarf.
I, keloid fibrous scar tissue.
kelp large broad-fronded brown seaweed suitable for use as manure.
kelpiea Scottish water-spirit, usually in the form of a horse, reputed to
delight in the drowning of travellers.
kelt a salmon or sea trout after spawning.
kendo a Japanese form of fencing with two-handed bamboo swords.
kenning a compound expression in Old English and Old Norse poetry,
e.g. oar-steed = ship.
kenosisthe partial renunciation of the divine nature by Christ in the
Incarnation.
kerf a slit made by sawing.
kibbutz a communal (especially farming) establishment in Israel.
an onlooker at cards etc., especially a busybody who offers
kibitzer
unwanted advice.
kiddlea barrier in a river fitted with nets to catch fish; or a similar
arrangement of nets on stakes along the seashore.
kilderkin a 16- or 18-gallon cask for liquids.
kilim a pile-less woven Eastern rug or wall hanging.
kismet fate, destiny.
knag 1 a knot in wood. 2 a small dead branch. 3 a peg for hanging
things on.
knobkerrie a short stick with a knobbed head used as a weapon,
especially by South African tribes.
knout a scourge used in imperial Russia, often causing death.
koan a riddle used in Zen Buddhism to demonstrate the inadequacy of
logical reasoning.
kohla black powder used as eye make-up, especially in Eastern
countries.
530 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

kris(also crease, creese) a Malay or Indonesian dagger with a wavy

blade.
kukri a Gurka knife, curved and broadening towards the point,
kulak a peasant working for personal profit in Soviet Russia,
kymograph an instrument for recording variations in pressure, e.g. in
sound waves or in blood within blood vessels.

L
laager 1 a camp or encampment in South Africa, especially one formed
by a circle of wagons. 2 a park for armoured vehicles.
labial of, near, or using the lips.
labile unstable; liable to change.
- labret a piece of shell, bone, etc. inserted in the lip as an ornament.
' labrys the double-headed axe of ancient Crete.
lachrymal of or concerned with tears.
lachrymose given to weeping; tearful.
laconic (of speech or writing, or a speaker or writer) brief, concise,
terse.
lactate (of mammals) to secrete milk.
lacuna a gap, blank, or cavity.
lacustrine of lakes; especially living or growing in lakes.
lagan goods or wreckage lying on the bed of the sea, sometimes with a
marked buoy etc. for later retrieval.
lallation the pronunciation of r as I; or imperfect speech generally.
lama a Tibetan or Mongolian Buddhist monk.
lambaste 1 to thrash, beat. 2 to criticize severely.
lambent softly radiant.
lambrequin US a short piece of drapery hung over a door, window, or
mantelpiece.
lamia a fabulous monster with a woman’s body, supposed to prey on
human beings.
lamina a thin plate of bone, stratified rock, vegetable tissue, etc.
lampion a usually coloured pot of oil with a wick, formerly used in
illuminations.
lamprey an eel-like fish with a sucking mouth and horny teeth but no
scales or jaws.
lanate woolly; covered with hairs like wool.
landau a four-wheeled enclosed carriage with a removable front cover
and a back cover that can be raised and lowered.
langlauf cross-country skiing.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 531

lansquenet 1 a German card game. 2 a German mercenary soldier in

the 16th-17th centuries.
lanugo fine soft hair, especially that which covers a human foetus,
laparotomy a surgical incision into the abdominal cavity.
lapidary 1 concerned with, or engraved on, stone. 2 (of writing style)
dignified and concise; suitable for inscriptions.
lapidate to pelt (someone) with stones.
lariat 1 a lasso. 2 a tethering-rope, especially used by cowboys,
lasque a flat piece of diamond.
lassitude 1 languor, weariness. 2 disinclination to exert or interest
oneself.
latexthe milky fluid found especially in the rubber tree and used for
commercial purposes.
latifundia large estates or plantations.
latrant barking, snarling.
lauwine an avalanche.
lavabo 1the ritual washing of the priest’s hands at Mass. 2 a monastery
washing trough.
lave 1 to wash, bathe. 2 (of water) to wash against; flow along.
laver bread a Welsh dish of boiled seaweed dipped in oatmeal and fried,
layette a set of clothing and equipment for a new baby.
lazaretto an isolation hospital or quarantine ship.
leach to remove (soluble matter) from bark, ore, ash, soil, etc. by the
action of percolating liquid.
leat an open watercourse taking water to a mill.
lector 1 a reader, especially of lessons in church. 2 {fem. lectrice) a
lecturer or reader, especially one employed in a foreign university to
teach his or her native language.
lees the sediment of wine etc.
legerdemain sleight of hand; conjuring.
legume the seed pod of a pea, bean, etc. used as food.
a Polynesian flower garland. 2 the plural of leu, the Romanian
lei 1
currency unit.
leister a pronged salmon-spear.
lemma 1 a proposition used in an argument or proof. 2 a heading
indicating the subject of a literaiy composition, a dictionary entry,
etc. 3 a motto appended to a picture etc.
lenitive soothing, palliative.
lenity mercy, gentleness.
lentigo a freckle or pimple.
532 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

lepidopterist an expert in or collector of butterflies and moths.

Lethe 1 in Greek mythology, a river in Hades producing forgetfulness of
the past. 2 such forgetfulness.
leucoma a white opacity in the cornea of the eye.
levant Brit, slang to abscond or bolt, especially with betting or gaming
losses unpaid.
levigate to reduce to smooth paste or powder.
levitate to (cause to) rise and float in the air (especially with reference
to spiritualism).
lexigraphy a system of writing in which each character represents a
word.
libation a drink-offering poured out to a god.
libidinous lustful.
lich-gate (also lych-gate) a roofed gateway to a churchyard where a
' coffin may be rested before a funeral.
Lilliputian tiny, diminutive.
limaceous of slugs or snails; snail-like.
limn to paint (especially a miniature portrait).
limpid (of water, eyes, etc.) clear, transparent.
linga a phallus, especially as the Hindu symbol of Shiva,
limpkin a water bird not unlike the cranes and rails,
lionize to treat as a celebrity.
lipography the omission of letters or words in writing.
lipper 1 a rippling of the sea. 2 a tool for forming the lip of a glass
vessel.
lissom lithe, supple, agile.
littoral a region lying along the shore of the sea, a lake, etc.
llano a treeless grassy plain, especially in South America,
loblolly a thick gruel eaten especially by sailors.
lockage 1 the amount of rise and fall effected by canal locks. 2 a toll
for the use of a lock. 3 the construction or use of locks.
logie Scottish the open space before a lain fire.
logion a saying attributed to Christ, especially one not recorded in the
recognized Gospels.
logistics the detailed planning and organization of an operation,
especially of moving, lodging, and supplying troops and equipment.
logomachy a dispute about words; controversy turning on merely
verbal points.
logorrhoea an excessive flow of words, especially in mental illness,
longanimity long-suffering; forbearance or patience under provocation.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 533

loquacious talkative, chattering.

loricate having an armour of scales, plates, etc.
lorimer, loriner a maker of bits, spurs, and metal bridle mountings for
horses.
loupe a small magnifying glass used by jewellers.
lovelock a curl or lock of hair worn on the temple or forehead,
lox US smoked salmon.
luau a feast with Hawaiian food and usually entertainment,
lubricious 1 slippery, smooth, oily. 2 lewd, prurient.
lucubration 1 nocturnal study. 2 pedantic or elaborate literary writings,
ludic of spontaneous play or games.
lugea light toboggan for one or two people, ridden in the sitting
position.
lumbar of the lower back area.
a length of cotton cloth, worn as a loincloth in India, or a skirt in
lungi
Myanmar (where it is the national dress for both sexes).
lunula 1the crescent-shaped area at the base of the fingernail. 2 a
crescent-shaped Bronze Age ornament.
lustrate to purify by ceremonial sacrifice, washing, etc.
lustrum a period of five years.
lycanthrope a werewolf, or an insane person who thinks he or she is a
wolf.
lycopod any of various clubmosses, especially of the genus Lycopodium.
lysis the disintegration of a cell.

M
macabre grim, gruesome.
macerate to make or become soft by soaking.
machete a broad heavy knife used in Central America and the West
Indies as an implement and weapon.
machiavellian elaborately cunning; scheming, unscrupulous,
machismo exaggeratedly assertive manliness; a show of masculinity,
mackle a blurred impression in printing.
macrame the art of knotting string in patterns to make decorative
articles.
macron a written or printed mark f) over a long or stressed vowel,
macroscopic 1 big enough to be visible to the naked eye. 2 regarded in
terms of large units.
macula a dark spot, especially a permanent one, on the skin,
maelstrom 1 a great whirlpool. 2 a state of confusion.
534 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

maenad a female follower of the god Bacchus.

magnum a wine bottle of about twice the standard size.
magot 1 the tailless Barbary ape of Gibraltar. 2 a small grotesque
Chinese or Japanese figure of porcelain, ivory, wood, etc.
maharishi a great Hindu sage or spiritual leader.
mahout in India etc. an elephant-driver or -keeper.
maieutic (of the Socratic mode of enquiry) serving to bring a person’s
latent ideas into clear consciousness.
maladroit clumsy; bungling.
malamute (also malemute) an Eskimo dog.
malediction a curse; cursing.
maleficent hurtful or criminal.
malign 1 (of a thing) injurious. 2 (of a disease) malignant.
' 3 malevolent.
malism the doctrine that the world is an evil one.
malversation corrupt behaviour in a position of trust, as by a public
official.
mamilla (US mammilla) a nipple or teat.
mana 1 power, authority, prestige. 2 supernatural or magical power,
manacle a handcuff.
manciple an officer who buys provisions for a college, an Inn of Court,
etc.
mandala a symbolic circular figure representing the universe in various
religions.
mandor a foreman or overseer in Malaysia or Indonesia.
a shaft in a lathe to hold work being turned.
mandrel 1 2 a cylinder
round which material is forged or shaped.
manes the deified souls of dead ancestors.
mangonel an ancient military engine for throwing stones, etc.
Manichee an adherent of a 3rd-5th century religious system
representing Satan as in a state of everlasting conflict with God.
mansuetude meekness, docility, gentleness.
manumit to set (a slave) free.
marasmus a wasting away of the body.
marc brandy made from the refuse of pressed grapes.
marimba a xylophone played by natives of Africa and Central America,
or a modern orchestral instrument derived from this.
marmoreal of or like marble.
marquois an apparatus for drawing equidistant parallel lines,
marram a kind of shore grass.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 535

marshalsea a prison in Southwark abolished in 1842; also certain other

London prisons.
martinet a strict (especially military or naval) disciplinarian.
martingale 1 a strap connecting a horses’s noseband to the girth, to
prevent rearing. 2 a gambling system of continually doubling the
stakes.
martlet an old word for a swift or house-martin.
masochism 1 a form of (especially sexual) perversion characterized by
pleasure derived from one’s own pain or humiliation. 2 colloq. the
enjoyment of what seems to be painful or tiresome.
mastaba 1 an ancient Egyptian tomb with sloping sides and a flat
roof. 2 a bench outside a house in Islamic countries.
mastectomy the amputation of a breast.
matutinal of or in the morning.
maud a Scottish shepherd’s grey striped plaid.
maudlin weakly or tearfully sentimental, especially in an effusive stage
of drunkenness.
maulstick a light stick with a padded leather ball at one end, held by a
painter in one hand to support the other.
maunder to talk or move dreamily or listlessly.
maverick 1US an unbranded calf or yearling. 2 an unorthodox or
independent-minded person.
mawkish sentimental in a feeble or sickly way.
maya Hinduism a marvel or illusion, especially perceptible to the senses,
meerschaum 1 a white clay-like mineral chiefly found in Turkey. 2 a
tobacco pipe made of this.
megalopolis a great city.
megass the fibre left when sugar has been extracted from the cane,
megilp (also magilp) a mixture of mastic resin and linseed oil often
added to oil paints in the 19th century.
melaninthe dark pigment responsible for tanning the skin when
exposed to sunlight.
melton cloth with a close-cut nap, used for overcoats etc.
menarche the onset of first menstruation.
menhir a tall upright usually prehistoric monumental stone.
mephitis a noxious emanation; a stench.
sprightly, ready-witted, volatile. 2 of or containing
mercurial 1
mercury. 3 (Mercurial) of the planet Mercury.
meretricious 1 (of decorations, literary style, etc.) showily but falsely
attractive. 2 of or befitting a prostitute.
536 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

merkin 1false hair to cover the pudendum; a pubic wig. 2 a mop for
cleaning out a cannon.
mesa US an isolated flat-topped hill with steep sides, found in
landscapes with horizontal strata as in the south-west USA.
mestizo a Spaniard or Portuguese of mixed race, especially the
offspring of a Spaniard and an American Indian.
metempsychosis the supposed transmigration of souls into a new body
after death.
metheglin a kind of spiced mead, originally peculiar to Wales.
metopic of the forehead; frontal.
Mickey Finn a strong alcoholic drink adulterated with knockout drops,
micron one-millionth of a metre.
'micturate to urinate.
mien a person’s look or bearing, as showing character or mood,
mihraba niche or slab in a mosque, used to show the direction of
Mecca.
militate(of facts or evidence) to have force or effect against (what you say
militates against our opinion).
milt 1the spleen or spleen-like organ in vertebrates. 2 a sperm-filled
reproductive gland of a male fish.
mimesis 1 deliberate imitation; mimicry. 2 Biol, a close external
resemblance of an animal to another that is distasteful or harmful to
predators of the first.
miniver (also minever) plain white fur used in ceremonial costume,
misandry the hatred of men.
miscegenation the interbreeding of races, especially of Whites and non-
Whites.
miscreant a vile wretch; a villain.
misericord a shelving projection on the under side of a hinged seat in a
choir stall serving (when the seat is turned up) to help support a
person standing.
misogyny the hatred of women.
a misunderstanding. 2 failure to appreciate the value of
misprision 1
something. 3 an old word for contempt.
mistigris a blank card used like a joker in a form of poker,
mithridatizeto render proof against a poison by administering
gradually increasing doses of it.
mitrailleuse a breech-loading 19th-centuiy machine-gun.
mnemonic a phrase etc. designed to aid the memoiy, e.g. face for the
musical notes F, A, C, E between the lines on the treble clef.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 537

moiety each of two parts, especially halves, into which something is

divided.
mollify to appease, pacify, soften.
moniker (also monicker, monniker) slang a person’s name.
monition 1 a warning of danger. 2 a rebuke, admonishment.
monocoque an aircraft or vehicle structure in which the chassis is
integral with the body.
monotreme any mammal of Australia and New Guinea, including the
duckbill and spiny anteater, with a single opening for urine, faeces,
and eggs.
monstrance in the Roman Catholic church, a vessel in which the Host is
exposed for veneration.
mor humus formed under acid conditions.
mora la a delay, b a unit of time equal to the duration of a short
syllable. 2 a game in which one player guesses the number of fingers
held up by another. 3 a division of the Spartan army. 4 a tree of
Guiana and Trinidad. 5 a footstool.
moratorium 1 a temporary prohibition or suspension of an activity. 2 a
legal authorization to debtors to postpone payment.
mordant 1 (of sarcasm etc.) caustic, biting. 2 corrosive or cleansing.
mores the customs and conventions of a community.
morganatic (of a marriage) between people of different social ranks, the
spouse and children having no claim to the possessions or title of the
person of higher rank.
morion a kind of military helmet of the 16th and 17th centuries.
moshav a cooperative association of Israeli smallholders.
motile capable of motion.
moxibustion a Chinese and Japanese method of treating various
conditions by burning a herbal mixture on part of the body.
muckluck (also mukluk) a high Eskimo boot made of sealskin, canvas,
etc.
muezzina Muslim crier who proclaims the hours of prayer usually from
a minaret.
mugient lowing, bellowing.
mugwump US 1 a great man; a boss. 2 a person who holds aloof,
especially from party politics.
mulct 1 to extract money from by fine or taxation. 2 to swindle, or
obtain by swindling.
muliebrity 1 womanhood; the common characteristics of a woman.
2 softness, effeminacy.
multipara a woman who has borne more than one child.
538 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

mumchance silent; dumbstruck.

mummiform shaped like a mummy.
mumpsimus an ignorant opponent of reform; an old fogey.
mundungus bad-smelling tobacco.
murex a shellfish that gives a purple dye.
muscular stomach any organ that grinds and squeezes to aid digestion,
such as a bird’s gizzard.
musth (of a male elephant or camel) in a state of frenzy.
mutch a woman’s or child’s linen cap.
muzhik a Russian peasant of tsarist times.
myrmidon 1 a hired ruffian. 2 a base servant.

N
nacre mother-of-pearl.
naevus (US nevus) a birthmark or mole.
naiad 1 in Greek mythology, a water-nymph. 2 the larva of a dragon-fly
etc.
nainsook a fine soft cotton fabric, originally Indian.
naker an old word for a kettledrum.
napalm a jellied petrol used in incendiary bombs.
nappa (also napa) a soft leather made by a special process from the
skins of sheep or goats.
narcosis insensibility induced by drugs.
nascent just beginning to be; not yet mature,
natality birth rate.
natation swimming.
nattier blue a soft shade of blue.
a tide just after the first and third quarters of the moon,
neap tide
when there is least difference between low and high water.
Nearctic of the Arctic and the temperate parts of North America as a
zoogeographical region.
nefarious wicked, iniquitous.
Negritude 1 the state of being a Negro. 2 the affirmation of the value of
Negro culture.
nemesis downfall caused by retributive justice.
nenuphar a water-lily.
neonate a newborn child.
neophyte 1 a new convert, especially to a religious faith. 2 RC Ch. a
novice of a religious order or newly ordained priest. 3 a beginner; a
novice.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 539

nepenthe a drug causing forgetfulness of grief.

nepotism favouritism shown to relatives in conferring appointments or
privileges.
nereid in Greek mythology, a sea nymph.
nescience lack of knowledge; ignorance.
nether lower.
netsuke a carved button-like Japanese ornament, especially of ivory or
wood, formerly worn to suspend articles from a girdle.
neve an expanse of granular snow not yet compressed into ice, at the
head of a glacier.
nexus 1 a connected group or series. 2 a bond; a connection,
nictitate to blink or wink.
nidicolous (of a bird) bearing helpless young that remain in the nest
until they can live without parental care.
nidifugous(of a bird) bearing well-developed young that leave the nest
almost immediately.
niello a black composition of sulphur with silver, lead, or copper, for
filling engraved lines in silver or other metal ornamental work.
nimbus a bright cloud or halo investing a deity or person or thing,
nimiety excess, redundancy.
niveous like snow; snowy.
nobiliary(of a preposition) forming part of a title of nobility (e.g. French
de, German von).
nock a notch in a bow to hold the bowstring, or on an arrow to receive
it.
noctambulist a sleepwalker.
noetic 1 of the intellect. 2 intellectual, speculative.
Noh traditional Japanese drama with dance and song, evolved from
Shinto rites.
noisette a small round piece of meat etc.
nonage an old word for legal minority; immaturity,
nonce the time being (for the nonce).
nonchalant calm and casual, unmoved, unexcited, indifferent,
nonentity a person or thing of no importance.
nonpareil unrivalled or unique. *
noriaa Spanish and Eastern device for raising water, consisting of a
revolving chain of pots or buckets which are filled below and
discharged as they reach the top.
nostrum 1 a quack remedy. 2 a pet scheme, especially for political or
social reform.
 540 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

Notogaea the zoological region comprising Australia, New Zealand, and

tropical and South America.
novena RC Ch. a devotion consisting of special prayers or services on
nine successive days.
noyade execution by drowning.
nuance a subtle difference in or shade of meaning, feeling, colour, etc.
nubile (of a woman) marriageable or sexually attractive.
nuchal of or relating to the nape of the neck.
nugatory trifling, worthless, not valid.
nullify to make null; neutralize, invalidate.
numdah an embroidered felt rug from India etc.
numinous 1 indicating the presence of a god. 2 spiritual and awe-
■' inspiring.
, numismatics the study of coins and medals.
nyctalopia night-blindness.
nympholepsy ecstasy or frenzy caused by desire of the unattainable,
nymphomania excessive sexual desire in women.

o
oakum a loose fibre obtained by picking old rope to pieces and used
especially in waterproofing the seams of boats.
oast a kiln for diying hops.
obdurate stubborn; hardened against persuasion.
obeah a kind of sorcery practised especially in the West Indies,
obfuscate to confuse or bewilder (a mind, topic, etc.).
obi a broad sash worn with a Japanese kimono.
objurgation scolding, chiding.
oblate a person dedicated to a monastic or religious life.
oblationsomething offered to a divine being, e.g. the offering of bread
and wine to God in the Eucharist.
obloquy 1 the state of being generally ill spoken of. 2 abuse, detraction,
obol an ancient Greek coin equal to one-sixth of a drachma,
obsecration earnest entreaty.
obsequies funeral rites.
obstetric of childbirth and associated processes.
obstreperous turbulent, vociferous; noisily resisting control,
obtrude to thrust forward (oneself, one’s opinion, etc.) unduly.
obviate to get round or do away with (a need, inconvenience, etc.).
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 541

Occident Europe and America as distinct from the Orient.

occiput the back of the head.
occlude to block up. close (an orifice).
ocellus1 a simple (not compound) eye of some insects etc. 2 an eye-like
marking, as on a butterfly’s wing or peacock’s tail.
oche the line behind which darts players stand when throwing,
octroia duty levied in some European countries on goods entering a
town.
od a hypothetical power once thought to pervade nature and account
for various scientific phenomena.
odalisque an Eastern female slave or concubine, especially in the
former Turkish Sultan’s harem.
odontoid toothlike.
a recurring period of sexual receptivity in many female
oestrus
mammals; heat.
officinal 1 (of a medicine) kept ready for immediate dispensing. 2 (of a
plant etc.) used in medicine.
ogdoad a group of eight.
ogham (also ogam) an ancient British and Irish alphabet of twenty
characters formed by parallel strokes on either side of or across a
continuous line.
oleaginous oily, greasy.
olfactory of the sense of smell.
Olivera hammer with its arm attached to an axle, worked with the foot
by a treadle and used in shaping nails, bolts, etc.
omphalos 1 a conical stone (especially that at Delphi) representing the
navel of the earth. 2 a centre or hub, such as the boss on a shield.
onager 1a wild ass of Central Asia. 2 an ancient military engine for
throwing rocks.
onanism 1 masturbation. 2 coitus interruptus.
oneiric of dreams or dreaming.
ontogenesis the origin and development of an individual,
opine to express as one’s opinion.
oppidan a town-dweller.
oppugn to call into question; contradict.
opsimath a person who learns only late in life.
optophone an instrument converting light into sound, and so enabling
the blind to read print etc. by ear.
opuscule a minor (especially musical or literary) work,
oracy the ability to express oneself fluently in speech.
 542 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

ordinand a candidate for admission to holy orders.

ordnance mounted guns and other military weapons, ammunition, and
equipment.
ordonnance the systematic arrangement especially of literary or
architectural work.
ordure 1 excrement, dung. 2 obscenity: filth; foul language.
oread in Greek and Roman mythology, a mountain nymph.
orectic concerning desire or appetite.
oreide a kind of shiny brass used for imitation jewellery etc.
orgeat a cooling drink made from barley or almonds and orange-flower
water.
orgulous haughty, splendid.
.oriflamme 1 the sacred scarlet banner of St Denis carried into war by
' early French kings. 2 a principle or ideal as a rallying point in a
> struggle.
origami the Japanese art of folding paper into decorative shapes and
figures.
ormolu gilded metal alloy used to decorate furniture, clocks, etc.
orotund 1 (of the voice or phrasing) full, round, imposing. 2 (of
language) pompous, pretentious.
Orphic of the mysteries associated with the legendary Greek poet
Orpheus; oracular, occult.
orphrey an ornamental stripe or border or separate piece of ornamental
needlework, especially on ecclesiastical vestments.
orris any plant of the genus Iris, whose fragrant rootstock is used in
perfumery.
ortanique a cross between an orange and a tangerine.
orthodontics the treatment of irregularities in the teeth and jaws,
orthodromy the art of sailing or flying on a great circle route, the most
direct course.
ortolan a small European bird, eaten as a delicacy.
orts fragments of food; leavings.
oscitant yawning, drowsy.
osculate to kiss.
osmic of the sense of smell.
ossuary a place for the bones of the dead; a charnel-house.
osteal of bone.
ostler a stableman at an inn.
otiose serving no practical purpose; functionless.
ottoman an upholstered seat without a back or sides.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 543

oubliette a secret dungeon with access only through a trapdoor,

ovation 1 an enthusiastic reception, especially spontaneous and
sustained applause. 2 in ancient Rome, a lesser form of triumph,
oviparous egg-laying.
oxbow 1 a horseshoe bend in a river. 2 a lake formed when the river
cuts across the narrow end of this.
oxytocic accelerating childbirth.

P
pabulum food, especially for the mind.
pachinko a Japanese form of pinball.
pachyderm a thick-skinned mammal, especially an elephant or
rhinoceros.
paduasoy a strong corded silk fabric.
paean a song of praise or triumph.
paedophilia (US pedo-) sexual desire directed towards children,
paladin a knight errant; a champion.
palanquin (also palankeen) a covered litter for one passenger, used in the
East.
an old word for a horse for ordinary riding, especially for
palfrey
women.
palimony US colloq. an allowance made to one’s unmarried partner after
separation.
palimpsest a manuscript on which the original writing has been
effaced to make room for other writing.
the reproduction of ancestral characteristics in the
palingenesis
development of an individual.
palinodea poem in which the writer retracts a view expressed in a
former poem.
to alleviate (disease etc.) without curing it. 2 to excuse,
palliate 1
extenuate.
palmer a medieval pilgrim who had returned from the Holy Land with
a palm branch or leaf.
palpebral of the eyelids.
palps the segmented feelers at the mouths of some shellfish and
insects.
palstave a type of ancient chisel made of bronze etc. and shaped to fit
into a split handle.
palter 1 to haggle or equivocate. 2 to trifle.
paludal 1 of a marsh; marshy. 2 malarial.
544 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

panache 1 assertiveness or flamboyant confidence of style or manner.

2 a tuft of feathers on a medieval headdress.
panada 1 a thick flour paste. 2 bread boiled to a pulp and flavoured,
pandect a complete body of laws; especially a compendium in 50 books
of the Roman civil law made by order of Justinian in the 6th century.
pandemic an epidemic ranging over a whole country or the whole
world.
pandour a former kind of soldier or mounted constable in the Balkans.
Pangaea the original vast supercontinent that split up into the land-
masses of today.
panhandle US 1 a narrow strip of land extending from one State into
another. 2 verb to beg for money in the street.
pannage 1 the right of pasturing swine in a forest. 2 the acorns etc. on
which the swine feed.
pantheism the belief that God is identifiable with nature and natural
forces.
a building in which the illustrious dead are buried or
pantheon 1
commemorated. 2 all the deities of a people; or a temple dedicated to
them.
panurgic able or ready to do anything; crafty and subtle.
paparazzoa freelance photographer who pursues celebrities to
photograph them.
papilloma a wart, com, or other usually benign tumour.
Paraclete the Holy Spirit as advocate or counsellor.
paradigm an example or pattern, especially a set of the inflections of a
noun, verb, etc.
paramount 1 supreme; requiring first consideration; pre-eminent (of
paramount importance). 2 in supreme authority.
parang a large heavy Malayan knife used for clearing vegetation etc.
paraph a flourish after a signature, originally as a precaution against
forgery.
paraquat a quick-acting herbicide.
paravanea torpedo-shaped device towed by a ship to cut the moorings
of submerged mines.
parbuckle a rope sling for raising or lowering casks and cylindrical
objects.
pard an old word for a leopard.
parergon 1 worksecondary to one’s main employment. 2 an
ornamental accessory.
parget to plaster (a wall etc.) especially with an ornamental pattern.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 545

parison a rounded mass of glass formed by rolling immediately after

taking it from the furnace.
parlay US to use (money won on a bet) as a further stake.
parlous dangerous or difficult.
Parousia the supposed second coming of Christ.
parr a young salmon in the freshwater stage.
parturition childbirth.
parvis (also parvise) 1 an enclosed area in front of a cathedral, church,
etc. 2 a room over a church porch.
paschal of Easter or the Jewish Passover.
pasquinade a lampoon or satire, originally one displayed in a public
place.
pastern the part of a horse’s foot just above the hoof.
pastiche a picture, musical composition, or literary work either
composed in the style of a well-known earlier creator or made up as a
medley of various borrowed fragments.
patagium the wing-membrane of a bat, flying squirrel, etc.
patella the kneecap.
paterfamilias the male head of a family or household.
having the right to live in the UK through the British birth of a
patrial
parent or grandparent.
patrimony 1 property inherited from one’s father or ancestor. 2 a
heritage. 3 the endowment of a church etc.
patristic of the early Christian writers or their work.
patronymic a name derived from the first name of a father or ancestor,
e.g. Johnson, O’Brien, Ivanovitch.
paucity smallness of number or quantity.
pavane (also pavan) a stately dance, formerly danced in elaborate
clothing.
pavonine of or like a peacock.
pawl a lever to lock a capstan, the teeth of a wheel, etc.
paxwax the tendon in the nape of the neck of a horse, ox, sheep, etc.
peccadillo a trifling offence; a small sin.
peccant 1 sinning. 2 inducing disease.
peccary a kind of American wild pig.
pectin a soluble jelly-forming substance found in ripe fruit and used as
a setting agent in jam.
peculation the embezzling of money.
pedagogue a schoolmaster; a teacher.
pederasty (also paederasty) anal intercourse between a man and a boy.
546 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

pedicular infested with lice.

peen the wedge-shaped or curved end of a hammer head,
peggle a dialect word for the fruit of the hawthorn; a haw.
peignoir a woman’s loose dressing gown.
pelf money; wealth.
pellucid 1 (of water, light, etc.) transparent, clear. 2 (of style, speech,
etc.) not confused; clear.
pemmican dried pounded meat mixed with melted fat and currants etc.
for use by Arctic travellers etc.
penchant an inclination or liking (has a penchant for old films).
penetralia innermost shrines or recesses; secret hidden parts,
pennate featheiy, winged.
pennill an improvised stanza sung to a harp accompaniment at an
• eisteddfod etc.
pensile hanging down; pendulous.
pentad the number five; a group of five.
pentagram a five-pointed star, formerly used as a mystic symbol.
Pentateuch the first five books of the Old Testament.
pentathlon an athletic event comprising five different events for each
competitor.
penumbra 1 the partially shaded region round the shadow of an opaque
body, especially that around the total shadow of the moon or earth in
an eclipse. 2 a partial shadow.
peptic concerning or promoting digestion.
perdurable permanent; eternal; durable,
peregrination a journey or wandering, especially extensive.
peremptory dogmatic, imperious; admitting no refusal,
perfidy breach of faith; treachery.
perfunctory done merely superficially for the sake of getting through a
duty (a perfunctory kiss).
periapt a thing worn as a charm; an amulet.
peripatetic 1 (of a teacher) working in more than one school or college
etc. 2 going from place to place; itinerant. 3 (Peripatetic) Aristotelian
(from Aristotle’s habit of walking in the Lyceum while teaching).
peripheral 1 of minor importance; marginal. 2 on the fringe. 3 Anat.
near the surface of the body, with special reference to the circulation
and nervous system.
Perique a strong dark Louisiana tobacco.
peristalith a ring or row of ancient standing stones.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 547

permafrost subsoil which remains frozen all the year round, as in polar
regions.
perorationthe concluding part of a speech, forcefully summing up
what has been said.
perquisite 1 an extra profit additional to a main income. 2 a customary
extra right or privilege; a perk.
persiflage light raillery, banter.
persimmon a usually tropical evergreen tree bearing edible tomato-like
fruits.
perspicacity mental penetration; discernment.
perspicuity clearness of expression.
pertinent relevant to the matter in hand; to the point
pertussis whooping cough.
pestilence a fatal epidemic disease, especially bubonic plague,
petard a small bomb used in former times to blast down a door etc.
petasus an ancient Greek hat, as worn by Hermes.
peterman a safe-breaker.
petroglyph a rock-carving, especially a prehistoric one.
pettitoes pigs’ trotters, regarded as food.
pharos a lighthouse or beacon to guide sailors.
pheromone a chemical secreted by an animal to attract or warn others
of the same species.
philander (of a man) to flirt, womanize.
philately stamp-collecting.
philippic a bitter verbal attack.
phillumeny the collecting of matchbox labels.
phlogiston a substance formerly thought to exist in all combustible
bodies and to be released in burning.
phratry a tribal or kinship division; a clan.
phrenetic 1 frantic. 2 fanatic.
a small leather box containing Hebrew texts, worn by
phylactery 1
Jewish men at prayer. 2 an amulet or charm.
phylum a taxonomic rank below kingdom, comprising a class or classes
and subordinate groups.
phytotron a laboratory where plants can grow and be studied under
controlled conditions.
piacular 1 atoning, especially for sacrilege. 2 needing atonement;
sacrilegious.
piaffe (of a horse) to move as in a trot, but slower.
pibroch a series of martial or funeraiy variations for the bagpipes.
548 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

picador a mounted man with a lance who goads the bull in a bullfight,
picaresque(of a style of fiction) dealing with the episodic adventures of
rogues etc.
piceous of or like pitch: black and glossy.
pichiciago (also pichiciego) a small South American armadillo,
piggin a wooden bucket with one long stave serving as a handle,
pikelet a thin kind of Northern English crumpet.
pilose (also pilous) hairy.
pinchbeck an alloy of copper and zinc used in cheap jewellery as
imitation gold.
pinguid fat, oily.
pintle a pin or bolt, especially one on which some other part turns.
Pinyin a system of romanized spelling for transcribing Chinese,
pique ill-feeling: enmity, resentment.
piscatory of fishermen or fishing,
pismire a dialect word for an ant.
piste a ski run of compacted snow,
an animal’s penis, especially that of a bull, formerly used as a
pizzle
whip.
placate to pacify, conciliate.
placebo a pill, medicine, etc. having no physiological effect, prescribed
for psychological reasons or as a control in testing new drugs.
placer a deposit of sand, gravel, etc. in the bed of a stream etc.,
containing valuable minerals in particles.
placket a slit in a garment, for fastenings or access to a pocket,
planchette a small usually heart-shaped board on castors with a pencil
that supposedly writes spirit messages when someone’s fingers rest
lightly on it.
plangent (of a sound) 1 loud and reverberating. 2 plaintive.
plantar of the sole of the foot.
plasma (also plasm) the colourless fluid part of blood, lymph, or milk,
plaudit applause: emphatic approval.
pleach to entwine or interlace (especially branches to form a hedge),
plectrum a thin flat piece of plastic or horn etc. held in the hand to
pluck the string of a guitar etc.
plenary 1 entire, unqualified (plenary indulgence). 2 (of an assembly) to
be attended by all members.
plenitude fullness, completeness: abundance,
pleonastic using more words than are needed.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 549

plethora an oversupply, e.g. an excess of any body fluid, or of red

corpuscles in the blood.
plexor (also plessor) a small hammer used for testing reflexes and
tapping the chest etc. for diagnosis.
pneuma the spirit or soul.
poco-curante careless, indifferent.
pogonlate bearded, unshaven.
pogrom an organized massacre (originally of Jews in Russia).
polder a piece of low-lying land reclaimed from the sea or a river,
especially in the Netherlands.
polity 1a form or process of civil government or constitution. 2 an
organized society; a State as a political entity.
pollard 1 a hornless sheep, ox, or goat. 2 a tree, especially a riverside
willow, whose branches have been cut off to encourage new growth.
pollex the thumb, or corresponding digit of a forelimb.
poltroona spiritless coward.
polymath a person of much or varied learning; a great scholar.
polynya a stretch of open water surrounded by ice, especially in the
Arctic seas.
pomace 1 the mass of crushed apples in dder-making, before or after
the juice is pressed out. 2 the refuse of fish etc. after the oil has been
extracted, generally used as a fertilizer.
pomander a spiced orange or ball of mixed aromatic substances to be
placed in a cupboard etc.
pompadour a woman’s hairstyle with the hair in a high turned-back roll
round the face.
poniard a small slim dagger.
pontine ofbridges.
porringer a small bowl, often with a handle, for soup, stew, etc.
posit to assume as a fact; postulate.
postprandial after dinner or lunch.
postulate to assume as a necessary condition; take for granted,
potable drinkable.
potamic of rivers.
poteen (also potheen) Irish alcohol distilled illicitly, usually from
potatoes.
pother a noise; commotion; fuss.
potlatch among North American Indians, a ceremonial giving away or
destruction of property to enhance status.
pragmaticdealing with matters with regard to their practical
requirements or consequences.
550 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

praxis 1 accepted practice or custom. 2 the practising of an art or skill,

precedent a previous case or legal decision etc., taken as a guide for
later cases or as a justification.
preclude to prevent, exclude, make impossible (so as to preclude all doubt).
predilection a preference or special liking.
pre-empt to forestall, acquire, or prevent by action in advance (pre-empt
an attack/my rival/the land).
prehensile (of a tail, limb, elephant’s trunk, etc.) capable of grasping,
premonition a forewarning; a presentiment.
prepuce the foreskin.
prequel a story, film, etc. whose events precede those of an existing
work.
presbyopia long-sightedness, developing especially in middle and old
age.
prescient having foreknowledge or foresight.
prestidigitation conjuring.
prevalent 1 generally occurring or existing. 2 predominant,
prevaricate to speak misleadingly; quibble.
priapic phallic; sexually licentious.
primogeniturethe fact of being the first-born child, often with the
consequent right of inheritance.
pristine in its original condition; unspoilt.
probang a flexible strip with a sponge or button at the end, for surgical
introduction into the throat.
probity uprightness, honesty.
proclivity a tendency or inclination.
proem a preface, preamble, or prelude,
prognathous having a projecting jaw.
prognosis a forecast, as of the course of a disease etc.
prolegomena the introductory matter of a book etc., especially when
critical or discursive.
the anticipation and answering of possible objections. 2 the
prolepsis 1
representation of something as happening in advance, as in he was a
dead man when he entered.
prolix (of speech, writing, etc.) lengthy; tedious.
promulgate 1to make (a cause etc.) known to the public; disseminate,
promote. 2 to proclaim (a decree, news, etc.)
prophylactic 1 a preventive medicine or course of action. 2 US a
condom.
propitiate to appease (an offended person etc.)
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 551

proponent someone advocating a motion, theory, or proposal,

prorogue to discontinue the meetings of (a parliament etc.) without
dissolving it.
proscribe 1 to banish, exile. 2 to reject or denounce (a practice etc.),
prosthesis an artificial leg, breast, tooth, etc. (and see l a n g u a g e ).
protean variable, versatile; taking many forms.
prothalamium a song or poem to celebrate a forthcoming wedding,
provenance the origin or history of especially a work of art.
pruritus severe itching of the skin.
psychokinesis the movement of objects supposedly by mental effort
without the action of natural forces.
puce dark red or purple-brown.
pulchritude beauty.
pullulate 1 (of a seed, shoot, etc.) to bud, sprout, germinate.
2 (especially of animals) to swarm, throng, breed abundantly, abound,
pulmonary of the lungs.
pulverulent powdery, or likely to crumble.
punctate spotted, speckled.
punctilio petty overattention to ceremony and etiquette.
punty an iron rod used in glass-blowing.
purfle an ornamental border, especially on a violin etc.
purulent consisting of or discharging pus.
pusillanimous lacking courage; timid.
putative reputed, supposed.
putcher a conical basket or wicker trap for catching salmon.
puteal of a well or pit.
putsch an attempt at political revolution; a violent uprising.
pyknic(also pycnic) having a thick neck, large abdomen, and short
limbs.
pyrexia fever.
pyx (also pix) 1 the vessel in which the bread of the Eucharist is kept. 2
a box at the Royal Mint in which specimen gold and silver coins are
deposited for testing annually.

Q
quadrat a small area marked for ecological study.
quadrennium a period of four years.
quadroon a person with three White grandparents and one Negro one.
quaggaan extinct zebra-like South African mammal with yellowish-
brown stripes.
552 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

quandary a state of perplexity; a practical dilemma.

quant a punting-pole.
quantal composed of discrete units; vaiying in steps, not continuously.
quartan (of a fever etc.) recurring every fourth day.
quartilein statistics, one of three values of a variable dividing a
population into four equal groups as regards the value of that
variable.
quebracho any of several kinds of American trees, with very hard
timber and medicinal bark.
quenelle a seasoned ball or roll of pounded fish or meat.
quern a hand-mill for grinding com.
quiddity 1 the essence of a person or thing; what makes a thing what it
\ is. 2 a quibble; a trivial objection.
quidnunc a newsmonger; a person given to gossip.
quietus 1 something which quiets or represses. 2 release from life;
death, final riddance.
quincunx five objects (e.g. planted trees, or the five on a dice) set so that
four are at the corners of a square or rectangle and the fifth is at its
centre.
quintain a post set up as a mark for the medieval military exercise of
tilting, often provided with a sandbag to swing round and strike an
unsuccessful tilter.
four sheets of paper folded to form eight leaves, as often in
quire 1
medieval manuscripts. 2 25 (formerly 20) sheets of paper.
quittance 1 a release from something. 2 an acknowledgement of
payment.
quodlibet 1a topic for philosophical or theological discussion, as set for
an exercise. 2 a light-hearted medley of well-known tunes.

R
rabid 1 furious, violent (rabid hate; a rabid nationalist). 2 (especially of a
dog) affected with rabies.
rachitic suffering from rickets.
raddle the red ochre often used to mark sheep.
raddled worn out; untidy, unkempt.
rale an abnormal rattling sound as heard in unhealthy lungs.
ramose branched, branchy.
rancour (US rancor) inveterate bitterness, spitefulness.
raptor any bird of prey; an owl, falcon, etc.
raster a pattern of scanning lines for a cathode-ray tube picture,
rataplan a drumming sound.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 553

ratiocination logical reasoning.

ratite a flightless bird, e.g. an ostrich, emu, or cassowary.
rattan(also ratan) the jointed pliable stem of an East Indian climbing
plant, used for walking sticks, furniture, etc.
raucous harsh-sounding, loud and hoarse.
ravelinan outwork of early fortification, with two faces projecting
outwards at an angle.
razzia a hostile incursion for conquest, plunder, capture of slaves, etc.,
as practised by the Muslim peoples in Africa.
realtor US an estate agent.
rebarbative repellent, unattractive.
rebato a kind of stiff collar worn by both sexes from about 1590 to
1630.
reboation a re-bellowing echo.
rebus a representation of a word or phrase (especially a name) by
pictures etc. suggesting its parts, as in ‘if the Gbmt put:’ for ‘if the
grate be empty put coal on’.
recalesceto grow hot again (especially of iron allowed to cool from
white heat, whose temperature rises at a certain point for a short
time).
recension a particular form or version of a text resulting from revision,
recherche 1 carefully sought out; rare or exotic. 2 far-fetched, obscure,
recidivist a person who relapses into crime.
reclame popular fame, notoriety.
recondite abstruse; out of the way; obscure.
recoup 1to recover or regain (a loss). 2 to compensate or reimburse
(someone) for a loss.
recrudescence (of a disease or difficulty etc.) to break out again,
especially after a dormant period.
recto 1 the right-hand page of a book. 2 the front of a page (opp.
v e r s o ).

rectrix a bird’s strong tail-feather directing flight.

recusant someone who refuses submission to an authority or
compliance with a regulation; especially formerly, one who refused to
attend services of the Church of England.
recuse to object, renounce; especially to object to (a judge) as
prejudiced.
redact to put into literary form; edit for publication.
redound (of an action etc.) to make a great contribution (it redounded to
his credit).
 554 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

backward flow. 2 a method of boiling a liquid so that any

reflux 1 a
vapour is liquefied and returned to the boiler.
refulgent shining; gloriously bright.
regelate to freeze again (especially of pieces of ice etc. frozen together
after temporary thawing of the surfaces).
regenerate 1 to bring or come into renewed existence. 2 to give or
acquire new and better life; reform. 3 to regrow new tissue. 4 to
restore to an initial state.
regimen 1 a prescribed course of exercise, way of life, and diet. 2 archaic
a system of government.
regisseur the director of a theatrical production, especially a ballet.
regnant 1 reigning, not merely a consort (Queen regnant). 2 (of things,
qualities, etc.) predominant, prevalent.
' regulus 1the purer or metallic part of a mineral that separates on
reduction. 2 an impure metallic product formed during smelting.
reify to convert (a person, abstraction, etc.) into a thing; materialize,
reliquary a receptacle for a religious relic.
remontant blooming more than once a year.
remora any of various sea fish that attach themselves with sucker-like
fins to other fish and to ships.
renal of the kidneys.
renege (also renegue) to go back on one’s word; recant.
rennet curdled milk from the stomach of an unweaned calf (or a
preparation made from its stomach-membrane) used in making
cheese and junket.
repine to fret, be discontented.
rescind to abrogate (a law, contract, etc.); revoke, cancel.
respire 1 tobreathe; inhale and exhale air. 2 to get rest or respite,
resurgent rising or arising again.
ret (also rate) 1 to soften (flax etc.) by soaking. 2 (of hay etc.) to be spoilt
by wet or rot.
retiarius a Roman gladiator using a net and trident.
reticle a network of threads or lines in the focal plane of an optical
instrument to help accurate observation.
retrousse (of a nose) turned up at the tip.
revanchism a political policy of seeking to retaliate, especially to
recover lost territory.
revers the turned-up edge of a garment at a lapel or cuff, revealing the
(often lined) under-surface.
revet to face (a rampart etc.) with masonry, especially in fortification,
rheum a watery discharge from the eyes or nose.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 555

rhinal of a nostril or the nose.

rhonchus a snoring or whistling sound from the chest,
rhotacism excessive or peculiar pronunciation of the sound r.
rhumb 1 any of the 32 points of the compass. 2 the angle between two
successive compass points.
rictus the gape of a mouth or beak.
an antibiotic used to treat various diseases, especially
rifampicin
pulmonary tuberculosis.
riffler a tool with a curved file-surface at each end, used by sculptors,
metal-workers, and wood-carvers.
rile to anger, irritate.
rilletts a tinned preparation of minced ham, chicken, fat, etc.
rime frost, especially white frost deposited by cloud or fog.
rinderpest a virulent infectious disease of ruminants, especially cattle,
riparian of or on a river bank (riparian rights).
riprap US a collection of loose stones as a foundation for a structure,
risible laughable, ludicrous.
riviere a gem necklace, especially of more than one string.
roborant a strengthening drug.
roc a gigantic bird of Eastern legend.
rodomontade boastful bragging talk or behaviour.
roil to make (a liquid) muddy by stirring it.
Romany 1 a Gypsy. 2 the language of the Gypsies,
rondavel a South African round tribal hut usually with a thatched
conical roof.
rondeaua poem of ten or thirteen lines with only two rhymes
throughout and with the opening words used twice as a refrain.
roquelaure a man’s knee-length cloak of the 18th and early 19th
centuries.
rosarium a rose garden.
rotund 1(of a person) large and plump, podgy. 2 (of language)
sonorous, impressively highfalutin.
roue a debauchee, especially an elderly one; a rake.
rouleau1 a cylindrical packet of coins. 2 a coil or roll of ribbon etc.,
especially as trimming.
rowen US a second growth of hay; an aftermath.
rubicund (of a face, or person in this respect) ruddy, rosy, high-coloured,
ruche a frill or gathering of lace, etc. as a trimming.
ruminate 1 to meditate; ponder. 2 (of ruminants) to chew the cud.
556 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

runagate a deserter, fugitive, runaway.

rundalea system by which land is divided into strips or patches of
which several, not adjoining each other, are cultivated by each holder.
runt 1a small pig, especially the smallest in a litter. 2 a weak
undersized person. 3 a large domestic pigeon. 4 an ox or cow of
various small breeds.

s
sabot a shoe hollowed out of a block of wood.
sabulous sandy, granular.
sacerdotal of priests; priestly.
sachem 1 the supreme chief of some American Indian tribes. 2 US a
political leader.
Saffian a leather made from goatskins or sheepskins dyed in bright
■ colours.
saggar(also sagger) a protective fireclay box enclosing ceramic ware
while it is being fired.
salangane a kind of swallow that makes edible nests.
salicylism aspirin poisoning.
salientian a frog or toad.
salmagundi 1a salad of chopped meat, anchovies, eggs, onions, etc. 2 a
general mixture; miscellaneous collection.
saltation 1 the act of leaping or dancing; a jump. 2 a sudden transition,
samite a rich medieval dress-fabric of silk sometimes interwoven with
gold.
samizdat a system of underground publishing of banned literature in
the former USSR.
samp US coarse maize porridge.
sandiver liquid scum formed in glass-making.
sanguinary delighting in bloodshed; bloodthirsty.
a lower-class Parisian republican in the French
sans-culotte 1
Revolution. 2 an extreme republican or revolutionary.
a form of printing type without serifs, the
sans serif (also sanserif)
projections finishing off the strokes of the letters.
saponaceous of soap, soapy.
Sapphic 1 of the Greek poetess Sappho. 2 lesbian.
sardonic grimly jocular; bitterly mocking or cynical.
sartorial of tailoring, or men’s clothes.
sastrugiwave-like irregularities, caused by winds, in the surface of hard
polar snow.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 557

satrap 1 aprovincial governor in the ancient Persian empire. 2 a

subordinate ruler, colonial governor, etc.
saturnine 1 sluggish, gloomy, dark and brooding. 2 an old word
referring to the metal lead, or to lead poisoning.
satyagraha passive resistance; originally the policy of resistance to
British rule advocated by Gandhi.
savannah (also savanna) a grassy plain in the tropics or subtropics,
sawder flatteiy, blarney.
scabrous 1 rough, scurfy. 2 indecent, salacious.
scapular 1 a monk’s short cloak. 2 a bandage for the shoulders. 3 a
bird’s feather near the shoulder.
scaramouch an old word for a boastful coward.
scarify 1 to slit or scrape (the skin). 2 to hurt by severe criticism. 3 to
loosen (soil) with a spiked tool.
scatophagous feeding on dung.
schlock US colloq. inferior goods; trash.
sciamachy (also skiamachy) fighting with shadows; imaginary or futile
combat.
scintilla 1 a trace. 2 a spark.
sciolist a superficial pretender to knowledge.
scofflaw(especially US) one who treats the law with contempt,
especially a person who avoids various kinds of not easily enforceable
laws.
scorbutic of, or affected with, scurvy.
Scouse the dialect of Liverpool,
scrannel thin, meagre.
screeve 1 to write. 2 to draw coloured pictures on the pavement,
scrimshank Brit, slang to shirk duty.
scrimshaw shells, ivory, etc. adorned with carved or coloured designs as
a sailors’ pastime at sea.
scry to divine by crystal-gazing.
scut the short tail of especially a hare, rabbit, or deer.
scutagemoney formerly paid by a feudal landowner instead of
personal service.
scuttlebutt 1 a water-butt on the deck of a ship, for drinking from.
2 colloq. rumour, gossip,

sebaceous fatty, oily,

sedulous persevering, painstaking, diligent,
seg a protective stud on the toe or heel of a boot.
558 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

seigniorage(also seignorage) a profit made by issuing currency,

especially by issuing coins rated above the value of their metal.
seinea large fishing net with floats .at the top and weights at the
bottom edge.
seismic of earthquakes.
selvedge (also selvage) the edge of a cloth along the warp.
seminal 1of seeds or semen. 2 (of ideas etc.) providing the basis for
future development (a seminal book).
sempiternal eternal, everlasting.
seneschal the steward of a medieval great house.
sententious pompously moralizing; given to the use of maxims,
seppuku Japanese ritual disembowelment; hara-kiri.
Sequacious 1 inconsequent, incoherent. 2 dependent, servile.
.sequelae complications following a disease.
serac one of the tower-shaped masses into which a glacier is divided at
steep points by crevasses crossing it.
serang the head of a crew of East Indian seamen.
sere (of leaves etc.) dried up, withered.
serendipity the faculty of making happy and unexpected discoveries by
accident.
serialism the composing of music using a fixed arrangement of the
twelve notes of the chromatic scale.
sericulture the breeding of silkworms.
sesquipedalian 1(of a word or expression) of many syllables. 2 half a
yard high or long.
setiferous (also setigerous) bristly.
sett 1 a badger’s burrow. 2 a granite paving block.
shaddock the largest citrus fruit, with a thick yellow skin and bitter
pulp.
shadoof a pole with a bucket and counterpoise, used especially in Egypt
for raising water.
shagreen 1 a kind of rough untanned leather. 2 rough sharkskin used
for rasping and polishing.
shaman a witch doctor or priest claiming to communicate with gods,
etc.
shard 1 a broken piece of pottery or glass. 2 a beetle’s wing-case,
sheading each of the six administrative divisions in the Isle of Man.
shibboleth a long-standing formula, doctrine, or phrase etc., held to be
true by a party or sect {must abandon outdated shibboleths).
shikar hunting in India.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 559

shillelagha thick stick of blackthorn or oak, used in Ireland especially

as a weapon.
shirr 1to gather (fabric) with especially elastic parallel threads. 2 US to
bake (eggs) without their shells.
shive a thin flat cork for a wide-mouthed bottle, or bung for a cask,
shofar a ram’s-hom trumpet used in Jewish religious ceremonies and as
an ancient battle-signal.
shoji a sliding paper-covered screen door in a Japanese house,
siccative a substance causing drying, especially mixed with oil-paint
etc.
sigmoid crescent-shaped or S-shaped.
simony the buying or selling of ecclesiastical privileges,
simulacrum an image or likeness of something, often deceptive,
simulate 1 to pretend to have or feel or be. 2 to imitate, counterfeit
(simulated fur).
simulcast simultaneous transmission of the same programme on radio
and television.
singultus hiccups.
sjambok in South Africa, a rhinoceros-hide whip.
skald(also scald) in ancient Scandinavia, a composer and reciter of
poems honouring the deeds of heroes.
skean-dhu a dagger worn in the stocking as part of Highland costume,
skerry Scot, a reef or rocky island.
skewbald (of an animal) with irregular patches of white and another
colour, properly not black.
skilly a thin broth or gruel, usually of oatmeal flavoured with meat,
slalom 1 a ski race down a zigzag course between artificial obstacles.
2 an obstacle race for canoes, cars, skateboards, or water-skis,
slivovitz a plum brandy made especially in the Balkans,
slurry semi-liquid mud, cement, or manure,
smallage any of several kinds of celery or parsley,
smegma an oily secretion in the folds of the skin, especially of the
foreskin.
snaffle a horse’s simple bridle-bit, without a curb and usually with a
single rein.
snood an ornamental net to hold a woman’s back hair,
sobriquet (also soubriquet) 1 a nickname. 2 an assumed name,
sodalitya confraternity or association, especially a Roman Catholic
religious guild or brotherhood.
softa a Muslim student of sacred law and theology.
560 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

solarium a room with sun-lamps, or large glass areas, for sunbathing,

solidus an oblique stroke (/) used in writing fractions (3/4), or to denote
alternatives (and/or) or ratios (miles/day).
solipsism the philosophical view that the self is all that exists or can be
known.
somatic of the body, especially as distinct from the mind,
somite each body-division of an animal divided into similar segments,
somniferous inducing sleep; soporific.
somniloquent talking in one’s sleep.
sophism a false argument, especially one intended to deceive,
sophomore US a second-year university or high-school student,
sorites a series of logical propositions in which the predicate of the
■' first is the subject of the second, as in all A=B, all B=C, therefore all
A = C.
sororal by or of a sister; sisterly.
sorority a female students’ society in an American university or college,
sortilege divination by lots.
souk a market place in Muslim countries.
soutane a priest’s cassock.
southpaw a left-handed person, especially in boxing.
spall a splinter or chip of rock,
spatchcock a chicken or especially game bird split open and grilled,
spatterdash a cloth or leather legging, formerly worn to protect the
legs from mud etc.
spatulate broad with a rounded end (a spatulate finger/leaf).
speculum 1 a surgical instrument for stretching body cavities for
inspection. 2 a mirror, especially of polished metal in a reflecting
telescope. 3 a lustrous coloured area on the wing of especially ducks,
spermaceti a white waxy secretion from a sperm whale’s head, used in
making candles, ointments, etc.
speys thick woodland.
sphagnum a moss growing in bogs and peat, used in packing, as
fertilizer, etc.
sphragistics the study of engraved seals.
spikenard a costly perfumed ointment, made in former times from an
Indian plant.
spindrift spray blown along the surface of the sea.
spiracle an external vent for breathing, in insects, whales, and some
fish.
spitchcock an eel split and broiled.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 561

splanchnic of the viscera; intestinal.

splenetic ill-tempered; peevish.
spline a ridge fitting into a groove in the hub or shaft of a wheel to
allow longitudinal play.
spoor the track or scent of an animal.
sporadic occurring only here and there or occasionally; separate,
scattered.
sprocket each of several teeth on a wheel engaging with links of a
chain, e.g. on a bicycle.
squamous scaly.
stacte a sweet spice used by the ancient Jews in making incense.
stanchion 1 a post or pillar; an upright support. 2 a bar or pair of bars
for confining cattle in a stall.
stannary a tin-mine.
steatopygous having fat buttocks.
stein a large earthenware beer mug, typically with a lid.
stellate arranged like a star; radiating.
stentorian (of a voice or speech) very loud.
stercoraceous 1 consisting of dung or faeces. 2 living in dung.
sternum the breastbone.
sternutation sneezing.
stertorous (of breathing etc.) heavy; sounding like snoring.
stevedore a person employed in loading and unloading ships; a docker,
stichomythia in classical Greek drama, dialogue in alternate lines.
stigmata in Christian belief, marks corresponding to those left on
Christ’s body by the Crucifixion, said to have been impressed on the
bodies of St Francis of Assisi and others.
stirk a yearling bullock or heifer.
stirps a classificatory group in biology.
stochastic 1determined by a random distribution of probabilities.
2 governed by the laws of probability.

a small mouthlike opening in some lower animals, e.g. a

stoma 1
hookworm. 2 a small orifice made surgically in the stomach.
stomatic good for diseases of the mouth.
stoush Austral. & New Zealand to fight with, attack.
stover winter food for cattle.
strabismus a squint.
562 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

strappado a form of torture in which the victim is secured to a rope

and made to fall from a height almost to the ground and then
stopped with a jerk.
strath a broad mountain valley in Scotland.
stricture a critical or censorious remark.
stridulate (of insects, especially the cicada and grasshopper) to make a
shrill sound by rubbing the legs or wing-cases together.
strigila skin-scraper used by ancient Greek and Roman bathers after
exercise.
struma goitre.
struthious of or like an ostrich.
stultify to make useless or futile, especially as a result of tedious
routine (stultifying boredom).
stupa a round usually domed building erected as a Buddhist shrine.
Stygian dark, gloomy, indistinct.
stylitean ancient or medieval ascetic living on top of a pillar.
suave 1 (of a person, especially a man) smooth; polite; sophisticated.
2 (of a wine etc.) bland, smooth.
subereous of cork; corky.
sublunary of this world; earthly.
suborn to induce by bribery etc. to commit perjury or any other
unlawful act.
subreption the obtaining of something by surprise or
misrepresentation.
subrogation the substitution of one party for another as creditor, with
the transfer of rights and duties.
subsume to include (an instance, idea, category, etc.) within a larger
class.
subvention a grant of money from a government etc.; a subsidy,
succedaneum a substitute, especially for a medicine or drug,
succotash a dish of green maize and beans boiled together,
succour (US succor) aid, assistance.
succubus a female demon believed to have intercourse with sleeping
men.
succumb 1 to be forced to give way; be overcome (succumbed to
temptation). 2 to be overcome by death (succumbed to his injuries).
succuss to shake (a patient) vigorously so as to hear any splashing
sound in the lungs.
sudd floating vegetation impeding the navigation of the White Nile,
sudorific causing sweating.

sulcus a groove or furrow, especially on the surface of the brain.

 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 563

sullage filth, refuse, sewage.

sumo a style of Japanese wrestling, in which a participant is defeated
by touching the ground with any part of the body except the soles of
the feet or by moving outside the marked area.
supererogation the performance of more than duty requires,
superfetationa second conception during pregnancy, giving rise to
embtyos of different ages.
supernal 1 heavenly, divine. 2 of or concerning the sky. 3 lofty,
supine 1 lying face upwards. 2 inert, indolent; morally inactive,
surcingle a band round a horse’s body usually to keep a pack etc. in
place.
surrogate a substitute, deputy.
suspire 1 to sigh, or utter with a sigh. 2 to breathe.
sussuration a sound of whispering or rustling.
sutler a person in the past who followed an army and sold provisions to
the soldiers.
suture 1the stitching of a wound or incision, or the thread or wire
used for this. 2 the seamlike junction of two bones, especially in the
skull.
suzerain 1a feudal lord. 2 a sovereign or State having some control
over another State that is internally autonomous.
swami a Hindu male religious teacher.
swarf fine chips or filings of stone, metal, plastic, etc. removed by
cutting.
swatch a sample, especially of cloth.
swinge to strike hard, beat.
swingletree a pivoted crossbar to which the traces are attached in a
cart, plough, etc.
sybarite a self-indulgent person; one devoted to sensuous luxury,
sycophant a servile flatterer; a toady.
a dessert made of cream or milk flavoured, sweetened, and
syllabub
whipped.
symbiosis an interaction between two different organisms living in .
close physical association, usually to the advantage of both.
synaesthesia(US synesthesia) 1 the production of a mental sense-
impression relating to one sense by the stimulation of another sense,
as when a sensation of colour is aroused by a smell. 2 a sensation
produced in one part of the body by stimulation of another part.
syncretism the process of attempting to unify differing schools of
thought.
564 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

synergism the combined effect of drugs, organs, etc. that exceeds the
sum of their individual effects.
syphilophobia an abnormal fear of being infected with syphilis,
syrinx the song-organ of birds.

T
tabard 1 a herald’s official coat bearing the arms of the sovereign. 2 a
woman’s sleeveless jerkin. 3 a medieval knight’s short tunic bearing
his arms and worn over armour.
tabouret (US taboret) 1 a low seat usually without arms or back. 2 an
embroidery frame.
tacit understood or implied without being stated (tacit consent).
taciturn reserved in speech; saying little; incommunicative,
tactile of or perceived by the sense of touch.
tahina (also tahini) a paste of sesame seeds originally from the Middle
East.
taiga coniferous forest lying between tundra and steppe, especially in
Siberia.
taint a corrupt condition or trace of decay.
tampion (also tompion) a stopper or plug, e.g. for the muzzle of a gun or
an organ-pipe.
tangential only slightly relevant: peripheral.
tangram a Chinese puzzle square cut into seven pieces to be combined
into various figures.
tanist the heir apparent to a Celtic chief, usually his most vigorous
adult relation, chosen by election.
tantalus a stand in which spirit-decanters may be locked up but visible,
tantamount (to) equivalent to (was tantamount to a denial).
tarantella a rapid whirling Southern Italian dance.
tare 1 an allowance made for the weight of the packing round goods.
2 the weight of an unladen goods vehicle without fuel.
tarot cards a pack of cards for fortune-telling, with symbolic pictures,
taw the game of marbles, a large marble, or the line from which
players throw marbles.
taws (also tawse) a thong with a slit end formerly used for punishing
children in Scottish schools.
taxidermy the art of stuffing and mounting the skins of animals,
taxonomy the science or practice of classifying living or extinct
organisms.
tazza a saucer-shaped cup, especially one mounted on a foot.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 565

tectonics 1 the production of practical and beautiful buildings. 2 the

study of large-scale geological features.
telekinesis the movement of objects at a distance supposedly by mental
powers.
telergy the supposed force operating in telepathy and directly affecting
the brain or human organism.
tellurian of or inhabiting the earth.
telpher a system for transporting goods by cable-cars.
temporal 1 worldly rather than spiritual; secular. 2 of time. 3 of the
temples of the head, between forehead and ear.
tenable that can be defended against attack (a tenable position/theory).
tendentious (of writing etc.) calculated to promote a particular cause or
controversial viewpoint; having an underlying purpose.
tenebrous dark, gloomy.
tensile 1 of tension. 2 capable of being drawn out or stretched,
tenson (also tenzon) a contest in verse-making between troubadours,
teraph a small image as a domestic deity or oracle of the ancient
Hebrews.
tercel a male hawk, especially a peregrine or goshawk to be used in
falconry.
tergiversate 1to change one’s party or principles. 2 to equivocate;
make conflicting or evasive statements.
tergum the back or upper surface of an articulated creature, e.g. a
crayfish.
termitarium a termites’ nest.
ternary composed of three parts.
Terpsichorean of dancing.
terret each of the rings on a harness-pad for the driving-reins to pass
through.
tesseract a four-dimensional hypercube; extension of a cube into the
fourth dimension.
testudo a overhead protection, either in the form of a portable screen
or of their overlapping shields, for besieging troops in ancient Roman
warfare.
Tetragrammaton the Hebrew name of God written in four letters,
articulated as Yahweh etc.
thalassic of the sea or seas, especially small or inland seas,
thaumatropea disc or card with two different pictures on its two sides,
which merge into one when the disc is rapidly twirled.
thaumaturgy the working of miracles.
thegosis tooth-grinding in animals to sharpen the teeth.
566 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

theodicy the vindication of divine providence in view of the existence

of evil.
theophany a visible manifestation of God or a god to man.
theriomorphic (especially of a deity) having an animal form,
thespian of tragedy or drama.
thimblerigger a trickster who uses sleight of hand in a game involving
three inverted thimbles or cups, which are moved about, contestants
having to spot which one has a pea or other object under it.
thrall 1 a slave. 2 a state of slavery; bondage (in thrall).
thrasonical bragging, boastful, vainglorious.
threnody a lamentation or song of lamentation, especially on a person’s
death.
thurible a container for burning incense in; a censer.
thurifer an acolyte carrying a vessel of incense in a service or
. procession.
thyrsus in Greek and Roman antiquity, a staff tipped with an ornament
like a pine-cone, an attribute of Bacchus- the god of wine.
tick-tack-toe US noughts and crosses.
a mark (') put over a letter, e.g. over a Spanish n when
tilde
pronounced ny (as in senor).
tine a prong of a fork.
tipcata game with a short piece of wood tapering at the ends and
struck with a stick.
tippet 1 a stole for the shoulders formerly worn by women. 2 a similar
garment worn as part of some official uniforms, especially by the
clergy.
tiro, tyro a beginner or novice.
tisane a tea-like infusion of dried herbs etc.
titillate 1 to excite pleasantly. 2 to tickle.
titivate (also tittivate) to adorn, smarten.
the fat of the North American lobster, which becomes green
tomalley
when cooked.
tong a Chinese guild, association, or secret society.
tonsorial of a hairdresser or hairdressing.
tontine an annuity shared by subscribers to a loan, the shares
increasing as subscribers die till the last survivor gets all, or until a
specified date when the remaining survivors share the proceeds.
toper an excessive (especially habitual) drinker.
topiary the art of clipping shrubs and trees into ornamental shapes,
tor a hill or rocky peak, especially in Devon or Cornwall.
torchere a tall stand with a small table for a candlestick etc.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 567

torque a necklace of twisted metal, especially of the ancient Gauls and

Britons.
torsade a twisted fringe or ribbon decorating a hat etc.
torus a solid in the shape of a ring doughnut or tyre,
toupee (also toupet) a wig to cover a bald spot.
toumedos a small round thick cut from a fillet of beef.
toxophilite an archer, or lover of archery.
traduce to speak ill of; misrepresent.
transient of short duration; momentary, passing, impermanent (of
transient interest; transient guests).
transilient passing from one thing or condition to another.
translucent allowing light to pass through diffusely; semi-transparent,
as with frosted glass.
transmogrify to transform, especially in a magical or surprising manner,
transvestite a person who likes to wear the clothes of the opposite sex,
especially as a sexual stimulus; a cross-dresser.
trapunto a kind of quilting in which the design alone is padded.
trave a timber or wooden beam or enclosure of bars.
trebuchet (also trebucket) 1 a military machine formerly used for
throwing stones etc. in siege warfare. 2 a tilting balance for
accurately weighing light articles.
trematode a parasitic flatworm, especially a fluke.
trepan 1 a cylindrical saw formerly used by surgeons for removing part
of the skull bone. 2 a borer for sinking shafts.
triage 1 the act of sorting out according to quality. 2 the assignment of
degrees of urgency to decide the order of treatment of wounds,
illnesses, etc.
tribadea woman who takes part in a simulation of sexual intercourse
with another woman.
triskeliona symbolic figure of three legs or lines from a common
centre, e.g. the Manx emblem.
triturate 1 to grind to a fine powder. 2 to masticate thoroughly,
triumvirate a ruling group of three men, especially in ancient Rome,
troche a small usually circular medicated tablet or lozenge.
troglodyte 1 a cave-dweller. 2 a wilfully obscurantist or old-fashioned
person.
a Russian vehicle with three horses harnessed abreast. 2 a
troika 1
group of three people, especially as an administrative council.
trommel a revolving cylindrical sieve for cleaning ore in mining,
trounce 1 to defeat heavily. 2 to beat, thrash.
568 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

truculent aggressively defiant; pugnacious.

trudgen a swimming stroke like the crawl, with a scissors movement of
the legs.
trunnion a supporting pin on each side of a cannon or mortar, on which
it can pivot.
tucket a flourish on a trumpet; a fanfare.
tumbril (also tumbrel) 1 an open cart that carried prisoners to the
guillotine during the French Revolution. 2 a cart that tips to
discharge its load, especially a dung cart.
tumescent becoming inflated; swelling.
tumid 1 (of parts of the body etc.) swollen, inflated. 2 (of a style etc.)
inflated, bombastic.
tunicate clothed in concentric layers.
turbary the right of digging turf or peat,
turpitude baseness, depravity, wickedness.
twill a fabric so woven as to have a surface of diagonal parallel ridges.

u
ubiquitous present everywhere simultaneously; often encountered,
uhlan a cavaliyman who was armed with a lance, especially in the
former German army.
uhuru national independence of an African country.
ukase 1 an arbitrary command. 2 an edict of the Tsarist Russian
government.
ulema a body of Muslim doctors of sacred law and theology.
ullage the amount by which a cask etc. falls short of being full, by
evaporation or leakage.
ulotrichan having tightly curled hair, especially denoting a human type,
ultra-crepidariangoing beyond one’s proper province; giving opinions
on matters beyond one’s knowledge.
ululate to howl, wail; make a hooting cry.
umbles the edible offal of deer etc.
umbo 1 the boss of a shield. 2 a rounded knob.
umbrageous 1 shady; affording shade. 2 (of persons) suspicious, jealous,
umlaut a mark (j used over a vowel, especially in Germanic languages,
to indicate a vowel change.
unau the South American two-toed sloth.
uncinate hooked, crooked.
unction 1 the act of anointing for religious or medical purposes. 2 the
oil or ointment so used. 3 excessive or overfervent words.
ungulate hoofed; having hooves.
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 569

uniparous producing one offspring at a birth.

upcast a shaft through which air leaves a mine.
Uranian 1 celestial, heavenly. 2 of the planet Uranus. 3 homosexual,
urticate to sting like a nettle.
usquebaugh (especially Irish & Scot.) whisky.
uxorious greatly or excessively fond of one’s wife.

V
vaccinia a virus used as vaccine against smallpox.
vacillate 1 to fluctuate in opinion or resolution. 2 to move from side to
side; oscillate; waver.
vandyke each of a series of large points forming a border to a lace collar
etc.
vaporetto a canal motor-boat in Venice, used for public transport,
vaquero a cowboy or herdsman in Spanish America.
variorum 1 (of an edition of a text) having notes by various editors or
commentators. 2 (of an edition of an author’s works) including
variant readings.
variola smallpox.
vasectomy the surgical sterilization of a man by cutting the spermatic
ducts.
vatic prophetic or inspired.
vavasour a vassal who owed allegiance to a great lord and had other
vassals under him.
vedette 1 a mounted sentry positioned beyond an army’s outposts to
watch the enemy. 2 a motor launch. 3 a stage or film star.
vegan a vegetarian who also avoids milk and eggs.
vehmgericht a form of secret tribunal which exercised great power in
Westphalia from the 12th-16th centuries.
velar 1 of a veil or membrane. 2 (of a sound) pronounced with the back
of the tongue near the soft palate.
velleity a low degree of volition; a slight wish or inclination.
velodrome a track, often banked, for cycle-racing.
venatic of hunting.
venation 1 the arrangement of veins in a leaf or an insect’s wing etc.
2 the system of venous blood vessels in an organism.
ventage a finger-hole on a wind instrument.
veracity 1 truthfulness, honesty. 2 accuracy (of a statement etc.),
verbatim in exactly the same words; word for word (repeated it verbatim;
a verbatim report).
verglas a thin coating of ice or frozen rain.
570 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

veridical (of visions etc.) coinciding with reality,

verisimilitude the appearance of being true or real,
an acid liquor obtained from crab-apples, sour grapes, etc., and
verjuice
formerly used in cooking and medicine.
vernal of or in spring (vernal equinox; vernal breezes).
verso 1 the left-hand page of a book. 2 the back of a page, or of a coin
(opp. r e c t o ).
vesicant a blistering agent.
vesicle a small bladder, bubble, or hollow structure.
vespertine (of flowers, insects, etc.) opening, or active, in the evening,
vespiary a wasps’ nest.
vexillum 1 an ancient Roman military standard. 2 the vane of a feather,
viatical of a road or journey.
vibrissae 1 the stiff coarse hairs near the mouth of most mammals (e.g.
a cat’s whiskers) and in the human nostrils. 2 bristle-like feathers
near the mouth of insect-eating birds. '
vicarious 1 done or experienced through another person. 2 deputed,
delegated.
vicegerent someone exercising delegated power; a deputy.
vicuna a South American mammal like a llama, or its fine silky wool,
videlicet viz.; namely, that is to say.
vignette 1 a short description or brief incident in a book, film, etc. 2 an
illustration or decorative design, especially on the title-page of a book.
vinaceous wine-red.
viniculture the cultivation of grapevines.
virago a fierce or abusive woman.
virelaya short (especially old French) lyric poem with two rhymes to a
stanza variously arranged.
virgule 1 a slanting line used to mark division of words or lines. 2 the
stroke (/) used in writing fractions etc.; a solidus.
vlrid green, verdant.
viscid glutinous, sticky.
vitellus the yolk of an egg.
vivarium a place for keeping animals in (nearly) their natural state
indoors.
viviparous bringing forth young alive, rather than laying eggs,
volar of the palm of the hand or sole of the foot.
volition 1 the exercise of the will. 2 the power of willing (by oneS own
volition).
 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS 571

vomer the small thin bone separating the nostrils in man and most
vertebrates.
vomitoryeach of the passages to the seats in an ancient Roman theatre
or amphitheatre.
voyeurism the obtaining of sexual satisfaction from observing others’
sexual actions or organs.

w
wadi (also wady) a rocky watercourse in North Africa etc., diy except in
the rainy season.
wainwright a wagon-builder.
wale 1 a ridge on a woven fabric, e.g. corduroy. 2 a stout horizontal
timber along a ship’s sides, supporting the piles of a dam, etc. 3 a
strong band round a woven basket.
wampum shell beads used as money, decoration, or aids to memoiy by
North American Indians.
wapentake a former division of a British shire in areas of England with
a large Danish population; a hundred.
warlock a sorcerer; a male witch.
water-gall 1 a boggy tract in a field. 2 a secondaiy or imperfectly-
formed rainbow. 3 a wateiy bubble in the liver of swine. 4 a flaw in
an article caused by the settling of water.
wayzgoose an annual summer dinner or outing held by a printing-
house for its employees.
welkin the sky; the upper air.
wether a castrated ram.
whitlow an inflammation near a fingernail or toenail.
widdershins (also withershins) anticlockwise.
moving part of a machine.
windage 1 the friction of air against the
missile. 3 the difference
2 the effect of the wind in deflecting a
between the diameter of a gun’s bore and that of its projectile.
windrow a row in which hay, peats, sheaves of corn, etc. are laid for
drying.
winze a shaft connecting levels in a mine.
withe(also withy) a tough flexible snoot of willow or osier, used for
tying a bundle of wood etc.
wittol a man aware of his wife’s infidelity; a complaisant cuckold.
woggle a leather ring fastening a Scout’s or Guide’s neckerchief.
wok a bowl-shaped fiying-pan used in especially Chinese cookeiy.
572 A LEXICON OF HARD WORDS

X
xanthochroid having light-coloured hair and a pale complexion,
xenoglossia the faculty of using intelligibly a language one has not
learnt.
xeric having dry conditions, as of a desert.
xiphoidsword-shaped.
xystus 1 a covered portico where ancient Greek athletes exercised. 2 a
garden walk or terrace in ancient Rome.

Y
yahoo a coarse bestial person.
yang in Chinese philosophy, the active male principle of the universe
(compare y in ).
yapp a form of bookbinding with a limp leather cover projecting to
fold over the edges of the leaves.
yareready, prompt, brisk.
yarmulke (also yarmulka) a skullcap worn by Jewish men.
yean to bring forth (a lamb or kid).
yetithe Abominable Snowman; an unidentified manlike or bearlike
animal said to exist in the Himalayas.
yinin Chinese philosophy, the passive female principle of the universe
(compare y a n g ).
ylemthe primordial matter of the universe, conceived as a gas of
neutrons.
yogh a middle English letter used for certain values of g and y.

z
ziggurata rectangular stepped tower in ancient Mesopotamia, with a
temple on top.
zillah an administrative district in India.
zoetrope an old-fashioned optical toy in the form of a picture-lined
cylinder producing moving images when revolved and viewed
through a slit.
zymosis fermentation.
zymurgy the branch of applied chemistry dealing with the use of
fermentation in brewing etc.