dam, residence, adversary, incompetence, remark: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from IELTS Vocabulary set 127. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. dam · noun/dæm/

   a barrier built to hold back water and create a reservoir

   The construction of the dam created a large reservoir that provided water supply for the entire region.

   Synonyms: barrier, reservoir, embankment

   Origin: Middle English, from Old French 'dame', from Latin 'damma', meaning a water barrier

2. residence · noun/ˈrɛzɪdəns/

   the place where someone lives

   After years of living abroad, she finally returned to her family residence in the countryside.

   Synonyms: home, dwelling, abode

   Origin: Middle English, from Latin 'residentia', from 'residens', the present participle of 'residēre' meaning to reside or dwell.

3. adversary · noun/ˈædvərˌsɛri/

   one that opposes or resists an opponent

   The knight faced his adversary in a duel, both determined to prove their honor.

   Synonyms: opponent, rival, foe

   Origin: from Latin 'adversarius', meaning 'opponent', from 'advertere', meaning 'to turn against'

4. incompetence · noun/ɪnˈkɑmpɪtəns/

   lack of ability or skill to perform a task effectively

   The team's incompetence in handling the project led to significant delays and cost overruns.

   Synonyms: ineptitude, inadequacy, unskilledness

   Origin: Originates from the Latin 'incompetent-' meaning 'not suitable or qualified', from 'in-' meaning 'not' and 'competentem' meaning 'suitable, qualified'.

5. remark · noun/rɪˈmɑrk/

   a statement made to express an opinion or comment

   Her remark about the importance of teamwork resonated with everyone in the room.

   Synonyms: comment, observation, note

   Origin: Middle French 'remarque' (from Old French 'remarquer') or from Latin 'remarcare', meaning 'to note' or 'to mark again'