haste, periodical, timeliness, nuisance, cynicism: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from IELTS Vocabulary set 164. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. haste · noun/heɪst/

   excessive speed or urgency of movement or action

   In his haste to finish the project, he overlooked several important details.

   Synonyms: urgency, speed, hastefulness

   Origin: Middle English, from Old French 'hastes', from Latin 'habere' meaning 'to have', related to the notion of quickness.

2. periodical · noun/ˌpɪr.iˈɑː.dɪ.kəl/

   a publication issued at regular intervals

   I subscribe to a periodical that focuses on environmental issues, providing updates every month.

   Synonyms: journal, magazine, publication

   Origin: The word 'periodical' originates from the mid-19th century, derived from the Latin word 'periodicus,' which means 'recurring.'

3. timeliness · noun/ˈtaɪm.lɪ.nəs/

   the quality of being on time or occurring at a favorable or appropriate time

   The timeliness of her reports ensured that the project stayed on schedule and met all its deadlines.

   Synonyms: punctuality, promptness

   Origin: The word 'timeliness' is derived from 'time' combined with the suffix '-ness,' which conveys a quality or state. 'Time' traces back to Old English 'tīma,' meaning 'a period, a season.'

4. nuisance · noun/ˈnuː.səns/

   a person, thing, or circumstance causing inconvenience or annoyance

   The loud music coming from his neighbor's house was a real nuisance, making it difficult for me to concentrate on my work.

   Synonyms: annoyance, inconvenience, irritation

   Origin: Middle French 'nuisance', from 'nuire' meaning 'to harm or hurt'

5. cynicism · noun/ˈsɪnɪsɪzəm/

   an inclination to believe that people are motivated purely by self-interest

   Her constant cynicism about politicians made it difficult for her to trust anyone in public office.

   Synonyms: skepticism, distrust, pessimism

   Origin: The word 'cynicism' originates from the Greek word 'kynismos', which is derived from 'kynos', meaning 'dog'. This is linked to the Cynic philosophers, who were known for their disdain for materialism and social conventions.