tolerable, eccentric, hopeless, patriotic, exceptional: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from IELTS Vocabulary set 26. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. tolerable · adjective/ˈtɑː.lɚ.ə.bəl/

   capable of being endured or accepted

   The pain after the surgery was tolerable, allowing her to recover without too much discomfort.

   Synonyms: bearable, acceptable, endurable

   Origin: from Middle English 'tolrable,' from Old French 'tolérable,' from Latin 'tolerabilis,' derived from 'tolerare' meaning 'to bear, endure'

2. eccentric · adjective/ɪkˈsɛntrɪk/

   deviating from the recognized or customary character or practice

   The artist was known for his eccentric style, often combining unexpected materials in his sculptures.

   Synonyms: unconventional, peculiar, odd

   Origin: from the late 16th century, from Latin 'eccentricus', from Greek 'ekkentros' meaning 'out of the center'

3. hopeless · adjective/ˈhoʊpləs/

   having no hope or possibility of improvement

   After months of searching for a job, he felt utterly hopeless about his prospects for employment.

   Synonyms: despairing, desperate, futile

   Origin: The word 'hopeless' originates from the combination of 'hope' and the suffix '-less,' indicating a lack or absence of hope. The term can be traced back to Middle English 'hopeless,' derived from the Old English 'hopa' meaning 'hope.'

4. patriotic · adjective/ˌpeɪ.triˈɑ.tɪk/

   having or showing love for one's country

   Many citizens displayed their patriotic spirit by participating in the Independence Day parade.

   Synonyms: nationalistic, loyal, proud

   Origin: from the Latin 'patriota', meaning 'father' (from 'pater')

5. exceptional · adjective/ɪkˈsɛpʃənl/

   unusual or not typical; extraordinary

   Her exceptional talent for painting has earned her numerous awards and recognition in the art community.

   Synonyms: extraordinary, unusual, remarkable

   Origin: from Latin 'excipere', meaning 'to take out, to exclude'.