IELTS Vocabulary — Set 201

Set 201 of IELTS Vocabulary covers 5 words: stimulating, irresistible, arbitrary, fond, cynical. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. stimulating · adjective/ˈstɪmjəˌleɪtɪŋ/

   causing or promoting enthusiasm, interest, or excitement

   The professor delivered a stimulating lecture that sparked a lively discussion among the students.

   Synonyms: exciting, invigorating, inspiring

   Origin: derived from the Latin word 'stimulus,' meaning 'a goad, impulse, or incentive'

2. irresistible · adjective/ˌɪr.ɪˈzɪs.tə.bəl/

   too attractive or appealing to be resisted

   The chocolate cake was so irresistible that I couldn't help but have a second slice.

   Synonyms: attractive, alluring, enticing

   Origin: From the Latin 'irresistibilis', from 'in-' meaning 'not' + 'resistere' meaning 'to resist'.

3. arbitrary · adjective/ˈɑːr.bə.tri/

   based on random choice or personal whim rather than any reason or system

   The committee made an arbitrary decision to change the rules without consulting any of the members.

   Synonyms: random, whimsical, capricious

   Origin: From Latin 'arbitrarius', meaning 'depending on the will or judgment (of a person)'

4. fond · adjective/[fɑnd]/

   having an affection or liking for someone or something

   She is very fond of classical music and listens to it every evening.

   Synonyms: affectionate, loving, tender

   Origin: Middle English, from the past participle of 'fonden' which means 'to be foolish or silly', derived from Old English 'fōndian', which means to 'to experience or feel'.

5. cynical · adjective/ˈsɪnɪkəl/

   believing that people are motivated by self-interest distrustful of human sincerity or integrity

   Her cynical perspective on politics made it difficult for her to trust anyone in government.

   Synonyms: skeptical, jaded, sardonic

   Origin: The word 'cynical' derives from the Greek 'kynikos', which means 'dog-like' or 'currish', referring to the Cynics, a philosophical school that believed in living a life in accordance with nature and often criticized social conventions.