IELTS Vocabulary — Set 209

Set 209 of IELTS Vocabulary covers 5 words: resourcefulness, phenomenon, intermediate, hook, mild. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. resourcefulness · noun/rɪˈsɔrs.fəl.nəs/

   the ability to find quick and clever ways to overcome difficulties

   Her resourcefulness in solving the problem impressed everyone in the team during the crisis.

   Synonyms: inventiveness, ingenuity, creativity

   Origin: The word 'resourcefulness' comes from the noun 'resource' which originated from the Latin 'resurgere' meaning 'to rise again' or 'to recover.' The suffix '-fulness' is added to indicate 'the quality of.'

2. phenomenon · noun/fəˈnɑːmɪnən/

   an observable event or occurrence that is typically remarkable or extraordinary

   The northern lights are a stunning natural phenomenon that attracts tourists from all over the world.

   Synonyms: occurrence, event, spectacle

   Origin: from Greek 'phainomenon', meaning 'that which appears or is seen', from the verb 'phainō', meaning 'to show or to appear'.

3. intermediate · adjective/ˌɪntərˈmiːdiət/

   between two stages or levels

   The course is designed for intermediate learners who have a basic understanding of the subject but wish to advance their skills.

   Synonyms: middle, transitional, halfway

   Origin: from Latin 'intermedius', meaning 'in between'

4. hook · noun/hʊk/

   a curved or bent device used for catching, holding, or pulling something

   The fisherman cast his line into the water, hoping to catch a big one with his trusty fishing hook.

   Synonyms: claw, catch, grip

   Origin: Middle English 'hok', from Old English 'hōc', of uncertain origin

5. mild · adjective/maɪld/

   not severe or strong gentle or moderate in character

   The weather was pleasantly mild, making it a perfect day for a picnic.

   Synonyms: gentle, moderate, soft

   Origin: from Old English 'milde', meaning 'gentle, mild, or gracious'