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revolutionary

adjective/ˌrɛvəˈluʃəˌnɛri/

definition

involving or causing a complete or dramatic change

example

The new software introduced by the company is revolutionary, as it completely transforms the way businesses manage their operations.

synonyms
transformativedrasticradical
word origin — from late Latin 'revolutionarius', from 'revolutio' meaning 'a turn around'

IELTS Vocabulary — Set 176

Set 176 of IELTS Vocabulary covers 5 words: revolutionary, strategic, scientific, biodegradable, apprehensive. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. revolutionary · adjective/ˌrɛvəˈluʃəˌnɛri/

    involving or causing a complete or dramatic change

    The new software introduced by the company is revolutionary, as it completely transforms the way businesses manage their operations.

    Synonyms: transformative, drastic, radical

    Origin: from late Latin 'revolutionarius', from 'revolutio' meaning 'a turn around'

  2. strategic · adjective/strəˈtiːdʒɪk/

    relating to the identification of long-term or overall aims and interests and the means of achieving them

    The company's strategic planning process involves setting long-term goals and determining the best methods to achieve them.

    Synonyms: tactical, planned, calculated

    Origin: The word 'strategic' originates from the Greek word 'strategikos,' which means 'of or for a general.' It evolved through Latin 'strategicus' and was adopted into English in the early 19th century.

  3. scientific · adjective/ˌsaɪənˈtɪfɪk/

    relating to or based on science

    The research team presented their scientific findings at the international conference.

    Synonyms: systematic, empirical, analytical

    Origin: from Latin 'scientificus', derived from 'scientia' meaning 'knowledge'

  4. biodegradable · adjective/ˌbaɪoʊdɪˈɡreɪdɪbl/

    capable of being decomposed by biological processes

    Many companies are now producing biodegradable packaging to reduce environmental waste.

    Synonyms: composable, eco-friendly, environmentally-friendly

    Origin: The word 'biodegradable' is derived from the prefix 'bio-' meaning life, and 'degradable' from the Latin 'degradare', meaning to degrade or break down.

  5. apprehensive · adjective/ˌæp.rɪˈhɛn.sɪv/

    anxious or fearful that something bad or unpleasant will happen

    She felt apprehensive about the upcoming exam, worried that she hadn't studied enough.

    Synonyms: anxious, wary, concerned

    Origin: The word 'apprehensive' originates from the Latin 'apprehensivus', which is derived from 'apprehendere' meaning 'to seize or grasp'.