IELTS Vocabulary — Set 161

Set 161 of IELTS Vocabulary covers 5 words: inaccessible, liable, comprehensive, so-called, modest. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. inaccessible · adjective/ˌɪnəkˈsɛsəbl/

   not able to be reached or approached

   The remote village was completely inaccessible due to the heavy snowfall, leaving residents stranded.

   Synonyms: unreachable, unattainable, impassable

   Origin: from Latin 'inaccessibilis', from 'in-' (not) + 'accessibilis' (accessible)

2. liable · adjective/ˈlaɪ.ə.bəl/

   legally responsible or accountable

   If the company fails to follow safety regulations, it may be liable for any accidents that occur on-site.

   Synonyms: responsible, accountable, chargeable

   Origin: The word 'liable' comes from the Old French 'liabel', which derives from the Latin 'ligabilis', meaning 'capable of being bound'.

3. comprehensive · adjective/ˌkɑmprɪˈhɛnsɪv/

   including all or nearly all elements or aspects

   The comprehensive report included all the data from the previous year and presented a detailed analysis of the trends.

   Synonyms: complete, inclusive, thorough

   Origin: from Latin 'comprehensivus', meaning 'understanding, embracing', from 'comprehendere' meaning 'to seize, grasp'.

4. so-called · adjective/soʊˈkɔld/

   used to indicate that a term or label is not necessarily accurate or appropriate

   The so-called experts on diet and nutrition often promote contradictory theories.

   Synonyms: supposed, alleged, purported

   Origin: The term 'so-called' originates from the combination of 'so' and 'called', where 'so' implies a specific manner or degree, and 'called' relates to the act of naming. It has been used since the 14th century to denote something that is named or described in a particular way, often with a hint of skepticism.

5. modest · adjective/ˈmɑː.dɪst/

   having or showing a moderate estimate of one's own talents, abilities, or worth

   Despite her incredible achievements, she remained quite modest about her success and often downplayed her contributions.

   Synonyms: humble, unassuming, meek

   Origin: from the Latin 'modestus', meaning 'keeping measure, moderation'