exclamation, compliance, conformity, company, rank: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from IELTS Vocabulary set 135. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. exclamation · noun/ˌɛkskləˈmeɪʃən/

   a sudden and strong expression of emotion or surprise

   The crowd let out an exclamation of joy when their team scored the winning goal.

   Synonyms: interjection, exclamatory remark, cry

   Origin: from Latin 'exclamationem' (nominative 'exclamatio'), from 'exclamare' meaning 'to cry out'

2. compliance · noun/kəmˈplaɪ.əns/

   the act of conforming to rules, standards, or laws

   The company's commitment to regulatory compliance ensures that they follow all legal guidelines and industry standards.

   Synonyms: conformity, obedience, adherence

   Origin: Middle English, from Old French 'compliance' from Latin 'compliantia', from 'complere' meaning 'to fill up, fulfill'.

3. conformity · noun/kənˈfɔrmɪti/

   compliance with standards, rules, or laws

   The company's strict adherence to safety regulations is a clear indication of its commitment to conformity with industry standards.

   Synonyms: compliance, adherence, obedience

   Origin: Late Middle English: from Latin 'conformitas', from 'conformis' meaning 'similar', from 'con-' meaning 'with' + 'formis' meaning 'form'

4. company · noun/ˈkʌmpəni/

   a business organization that sells goods or services

   The tech company announced its latest smartphone model during the conference.

   Synonyms: business, firm, corporation

   Origin: from Old French 'companie', derived from 'compagner', meaning 'to accompany'

5. rank · noun/ræŋk/

   a position in a hierarchy or order of importance

   She was promoted to a higher rank in the company after her successful project completion.

   Synonyms: position, status, grade

   Origin: Middle English, from Old French 'ranc', from Latin 'rancus' (rank, straight, upright)