shortage, dimension, anticipation, impact, deficiency: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from IELTS Vocabulary set 128. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. shortage · noun/ˈʃɔrtɪdʒ/

   a state in which something is lacking or insufficient

   The city is experiencing a severe housing shortage, making it difficult for families to find affordable homes.

   Synonyms: deficiency, scarcity, shortfall

   Origin: from short + -age, indicating a condition or state

2. dimension · noun/dɪˈmɛnʃən/

   a measurable extent of some kind such as length breadth depth or height

   The box has three dimensions: length, width, and height, which determine its volume.

   Synonyms: measure, extent, magnitude

   Origin: from Latin 'dimensio', from 'dimensionem', meaning 'a measuring' (from 'diminere', meaning 'to measure out')

3. anticipation · noun/ˌæn.tɪ.sɪˈpeɪ.ʃən/

   expectation or prediction of something that is going to happen

   In anticipation of the upcoming exam, the students studied diligently every night.

   Synonyms: expectation, prediction, foresight

   Origin: from Latin 'anticipatio', from 'anticipare' meaning 'to take before', comprising 'ante' (before) and 'capere' (to seize)

4. impact · noun/ˈɪmˌpækt/

   the effect or influence of one thing on another

   The new policy will have a significant impact on the local economy.

   Synonyms: effect, influence, consequence

   Origin: from Latin 'impactus', past participle of 'impingere' meaning 'to drive in, strike, push against'

5. deficiency · noun/dɪˈfɪʃənsi/

   a lack or shortage of something necessary

   The child's growth was stunted due to a vitamin D deficiency that went unnoticed for months.

   Synonyms: shortage, lack, insufficiency

   Origin: From Latin 'deficientia', from 'deficere' meaning 'to fail or be lacking'