penalty, prioritization, magnitude, expansion, ancestor: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from IELTS Vocabulary set 150. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. penalty · noun/ˈpɛnəlti/

   a punishment imposed for breaking a law, rule, or agreement

   The player received a penalty for committing a foul during the match.

   Synonyms: punishment, fine, sanction

   Origin: Middle English from Old French 'penalite', from Latin 'poenalis' meaning 'of punishment'

2. prioritization · noun/praɪˌɔrɪtəˈzeɪʃən/

   the action or process of determining the relative importance or urgency of tasks or items

   Effective prioritization of tasks can significantly enhance productivity in the workplace.

   Synonyms: ranking, ordering, sequence

   Origin: Derived from 'prioritize' which comes from 'prior' (Latin 'prior, prioris' meaning 'first') and the suffix '-ization' which derives from Latin and denotes a process or action.

3. magnitude · noun/ˈmæɡ.nɪ.tud/

   the great size or extent of something

   The magnitude of the earthquake was measured at 7.0 on the Richter scale, indicating a significant release of energy.

   Synonyms: size, extent, scale

   Origin: from Latin 'magnitudo', from 'magnus' meaning 'great' or 'large'

4. expansion · noun/ɪkˈspænʃən/

   the act or process of increasing in size, scope, or quantity

   The rapid expansion of the city has led to increased demand for housing and infrastructure.

   Synonyms: extension, enlargement, increase

   Origin: Middle French 'expansion', from Latin 'expansionem', from 'expandere' meaning 'to spread out'

5. ancestor · noun/ˈænsɛstər/

   a person from whom one is descended

   Many people feel a deep connection to their ancestors, appreciating the sacrifices they made for future generations.

   Synonyms: forebear, predecessor, progenitor

   Origin: Middle English, from Old French 'ancestre', from Latin 'antecessor', meaning 'one who goes before'