integral, indefinite, stiff, outstanding, unprecedented: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from IELTS Vocabulary set 192. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. integral · adjective/ˈɪntɪɡrəl/

   essential or necessary for completeness

   Effective communication is an integral part of building strong relationships.

   Synonyms: essential, vital, crucial

   Origin: from Latin 'integralis', meaning 'belonging to a whole'

2. indefinite · adjective/ɪnˈdɛfɪnət/

   not clearly defined or determined

   The deadline for submitting the project proposal is still indefinite, causing some confusion among the team members.

   Synonyms: vague, unclear, ambiguous

   Origin: from Latin 'indefinitus', meaning 'not defined' or 'not limited'

3. stiff · adjective/stɪf/

   not easily bent or moved

   The wooden board was too stiff to bend, making it difficult to shape for the project.

   Synonyms: rigid, inflexible, unyielding

   Origin: Middle English 'stif', from Old Norse 'stífr' meaning 'firm, stiff', related to the Old English 'stif'.

4. outstanding · adjective/aʊtˈstændɪŋ/

   exceptionally good or noteworthy

   Her outstanding achievements in the field of science have earned her numerous awards.

   Synonyms: exceptional, remarkable, excellent

   Origin: from the verb 'outstand', which comes from 'out-' meaning 'beyond' and 'stand' meaning 'to stand'.

5. unprecedented · adjective/ʌnˈprɛsɪˌdɛntɪd/

   never done or known before

   The world is facing an unprecedented crisis that has affected millions of people globally.

   Synonyms: unmatched, extraordinary, unparalleled

   Origin: from Latin 'praecedens', meaning 'preceding', with the prefix 'un-' indicating negation