IELTS Vocabulary — Set 195

Set 195 of IELTS Vocabulary covers 5 words: debate, elasticity, convergence, certainty, ambiguity. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. debate · noun/dɪˈbeɪt/

   a formal discussion on a particular topic in which opposing arguments are put forward

   The recent debate on climate change highlighted the differing opinions among scientists and policymakers.

   Synonyms: discussion, argument, dispute

   Origin: from Middle French 'debattre' meaning 'to beat down' or 'to struggle', which comes from Latin 'battĕre' meaning 'to beat'.

2. elasticity · noun/ɪˌlæstəˈsɪti/

   the ability of an object or material to return to its original shape after being stretched or compressed

   The elasticity of the rubber band allows it to stretch and then return to its original shape without losing any flexibility.

   Synonyms: flexibility, resilience, pliability

   Origin: from Latin 'elasticus', from Greek 'elastikos', meaning 'able to be drawn out'

3. convergence · noun/kənˈvɜrdʒəns/

   the process of coming together or the state of having come together

   The convergence of different technologies has led to innovative solutions in the healthcare industry.

   Synonyms: merging, meeting, union

   Origin: from Latin 'convergent-', the present participle of 'convergere', meaning 'to incline together'

4. certainty · noun/ˈsɜr.tən.ti/

   the state of being sure or confident about something

   She spoke with a high level of certainty about the results of the experiment.

   Synonyms: assurance, confidence, surety

   Origin: From Middle English 'certeinte', from Old French 'certeinté', from Latin 'certitudo', from 'certus' meaning 'certain'.

5. ambiguity · noun/ˌæm.bɪˈɡjuː.ɪ.ti/

   the quality of being open to more than one interpretation or meaning

   The ambiguity in his statement led to confusion among the team members regarding the project goals.

   Synonyms: uncertainty, vagueness, obscurity

   Origin: from Latin 'ambiguitas', from 'ambiguus' meaning 'uncertain, doubtful'