IELTS Vocabulary — Set 122

Set 122 of IELTS Vocabulary covers 5 words: collapse, tolerate, bear, distort, constitute. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. collapse · noun/kəˈlæps/

   a sudden failure or breakdown of structure or function

   The sudden collapse of the building during the earthquake surprised everyone in the vicinity.

   Synonyms: failure, breakdown, fall

   Origin: from Latin 'collapsus', past participle of 'collabi', meaning 'to fall together or down'

2. tolerate · verb/ˈtɑː.lə.reɪt/

   to allow the existence or occurrence of something without interference

   The teacher was able to tolerate differing opinions during the classroom discussion without showing bias.

   Synonyms: endure, permit, allow

   Origin: from Latin 'tolerare', meaning 'to bear, endure', from 'toler-', stem of 'tollere' meaning 'to lift, to raise'

3. bear · verb/bɛr/

   to carry or support the weight of something

   The elderly bridge was designed to bear the weight of heavy trucks crossing over it.

   Synonyms: carry, support, hold

   Origin: Old English 'beran', meaning to carry or bring.

4. distort · verb/dɪsˈtɔrt/

   to twist out of shape or misrepresent

   The politician's statement was designed to distort the facts about the proposed legislation.

   Synonyms: warp, misrepresent, twist

   Origin: Originates from the Latin word 'distortus', past participle of 'distorquere', meaning 'to twist apart'.

5. constitute · verb/ˈkɑːn.stɪ.tuːt/

   to make up or form something

   Women constitute a significant portion of the workforce in many industries.

   Synonyms: compose, form, make up

   Origin: The word 'constitute' originates from the Latin 'constitutio', which means 'establishment' or 'arrangement'.