inspect, diminish, cite, proceed, dine: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from IELTS Vocabulary set 152. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. inspect · verb/ɪnˈspɛkt/

   to examine closely to learn more about its condition or quality

   The technician will inspect the equipment to ensure it is functioning properly.

   Synonyms: examine, scrutinize, assess

   Origin: from Latin 'inspectus', meaning 'looked at, examined', which is derived from 'inspicere' (to look into, examine), composed of 'in-' (into) and 'specere' (to look).

2. diminish · verb/dɪˈmɪnɪʃ/

   to make or become less in size, amount, or importance

   The new safety measures are expected to diminish the risk of accidents in the workplace.

   Synonyms: decrease, reduce, lessen

   Origin: from Middle English 'diminishen', from Old French 'diminuer', from Latin 'diminuere', meaning 'to lessen' or 'to diminish'.

3. cite · verb/saɪt/

   to mention or refer to a source or authority as evidence or justification

   In her research paper, she decided to cite several studies to support her argument about climate change.

   Synonyms: quote, reference, mention

   Origin: From Latin 'citare', meaning 'to summon' or 'to call upon'.

4. proceed · verb/prəˈsid/

   to go forward or onward in a course or action

   After the meeting adjourned, the team decided to proceed with the project as planned.

   Synonyms: continue, advance, go on

   Origin: from Latin 'procedere', meaning 'to go forward', from 'pro-' meaning 'forward' and 'cedere' meaning 'to go'.

5. dine · verb/daɪn/

   to eat dinner or a meal

   We decided to dine out at a new Italian restaurant for our anniversary.

   Synonyms: feast, sup, have dinner

   Origin: from Middle English 'dinen', derived from the Old French 'disner', which means 'to break one's fast'.