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mutual

adjective/ˈmjuːtʃuəl/

definition

shared by two or more parties

example

The two companies reached a mutual agreement to collaborate on the upcoming project.

synonyms
commonjointshared
word origin — from Latin 'mutuus', meaning 'borrowed or lent', from 'mutare', meaning 'to change'

mutual, magnanimous, groundbreaking, rough, empirical: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from IELTS Vocabulary set 165. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

  1. mutual · adjective/ˈmjuːtʃuəl/

    shared by two or more parties

    The two companies reached a mutual agreement to collaborate on the upcoming project.

    Synonyms: common, joint, shared

    Origin: from Latin 'mutuus', meaning 'borrowed or lent', from 'mutare', meaning 'to change'

  2. magnanimous · adjective/mæɡˈnæn.ɪ.məs/

    generous or forgiving, especially toward a rival or less powerful person

    Despite the heated competition, she was magnanimous in victory, graciously acknowledging her rival's efforts.

    Synonyms: generous, forgiving, charitable

    Origin: from Latin 'magnanimus', meaning 'great-souled' (from 'magnus' meaning 'great' and 'animus' meaning 'soul' or 'spirit')

  3. groundbreaking · adjective/ˈɡraʊndˌbreɪkɪŋ/

    innovative and pioneering, introducing new ideas or methods

    The scientist's groundbreaking research has opened new avenues in renewable energy technology.

    Synonyms: innovative, pioneering, revolutionary

    Origin: The word 'groundbreaking' is derived from the literal act of breaking ground, which is associated with the beginning of a construction project; metaphorically, it refers to introducing new ideas or methods.

  4. rough · adjective/rʌf/

    having an uneven or irregular surface

    The rough surface of the stone made it difficult to walk on without shoes.

    Synonyms: uneven, coarse, rugged

    Origin: Old English 'hruh', meaning rough, rugged, harsh

  5. empirical · adjective/ɪmˈpɪrɪkəl/

    based on observation or experience rather than theory or pure logic

    The researchers conducted an empirical study to gather data on the effects of the new medication.

    Synonyms: observational, experiential, practical

    Origin: The word 'empirical' originates from the late Middle English, derived from the Latin 'empiricus', which in turn comes from the Greek 'empirikos', meaning 'experienced'.