scope, elaboration, complication, undertaking, desire: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from IELTS Vocabulary set 108. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. scope · noun/skoʊp/

   the extent or range of consideration, action, or influence

   The scope of the project was expanded to include additional research areas.

   Synonyms: range, extent, purview

   Origin: from Latin 'scopos' meaning 'aim, goal, or mark'

2. elaboration · noun/ɪˌlæbəˈreɪʃən/

   the process of developing or presenting a theory, policy, or system in further detail

   The committee agreed that more elaboration on the proposed policy was necessary to address the concerns raised during the discussion.

   Synonyms: development, expansion, refinement

   Origin: from Latin 'elaboratio', meaning 'to work out' or 'to process'

3. complication · noun/ˌkɑmplɪˈkeɪʃən/

   a difficult or complex situation or condition

   The ongoing negotiations hit a major complication when new regulations were introduced unexpectedly.

   Synonyms: difficulty, predicament, entanglement

   Origin: from Latin 'complicatio', meaning 'a folding together'

4. undertaking · noun/ˌʌndərˈteɪkɪŋ/

   a formal pledge or commitment to undertake a particular task or obligation

   The company made a formal undertaking to complete the project by the end of the year.

   Synonyms: commitment, pledge, assurance

   Origin: from Old English 'under-tacan', meaning to take upon oneself

5. desire · noun/dɪˈzaɪɚ/

   a strong feeling of wanting to have something or wishing for something to happen

   Her desire for success motivated her to work late into the night.

   Synonyms: longing, craving, wish

   Origin: from Old French 'desir' and from Latin 'desiderare', meaning 'to long for, to wish for'