IELTS Vocabulary — Set 144

Set 144 of IELTS Vocabulary covers 5 words: transparency, reluctance, sophistication, consistency, despair. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. transparency · noun/trænˈspɛr.ən.si/

   the quality of being easily seen through or understood

   The transparency of the glass allowed us to see clearly into the room.

   Synonyms: clarity, openness, clearness

   Origin: from Latin 'transparens', meaning 'to shine through'

2. reluctance · noun/rɪˈlʌk.təns/

   unwillingness or hesitation to do something

   Her reluctance to speak in public was evident as she fidgeted nervously with her notes.

   Synonyms: unwillingness, hesitation, disinclination

   Origin: from Latin 'reluctantia', from 'reluctari' meaning 'to struggle against'

3. sophistication · noun/səˌfɪs.təˈkeɪ.ʃən/

   the quality of being advanced or complex in design, style, or thought

   The sophistication of the new smartphone design sets it apart from its competitors, appealing to tech enthusiasts and casual users alike.

   Synonyms: elegance, refinement, complexity

   Origin: The word 'sophistication' originates from the Latin word 'sophisticatio', from 'sophisticare', which means 'to make wise or skilled'.

4. consistency · noun/kənˈsɪstəntsi/

   the quality of being reliable or uniform in behavior or performance

   The team's success can be attributed to their consistency in performance throughout the season.

   Synonyms: uniformity, stability, reliability

   Origin: From Latin 'consistentia', meaning 'standing firm, firmness', from 'consistere', meaning 'to stand firm'.

5. despair · noun/dɪsˈpɛr/

   a state of utter hopelessness and the absence of hope

   After losing his job and facing mounting bills, he fell into a deep despair that seemed unending.

   Synonyms: hopelessness, despondency, misery

   Origin: from Old French 'desespoir', which derives from Latin 'desperare', meaning 'to lose hope'