IELTS Vocabulary — Set 34

Set 34 of IELTS Vocabulary covers 5 words: undermine, validate, conform, infer, restrict. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. undermine · verb/ˌʌndərˈmaɪn/

   to weaken or damage something gradually or secretly

   The constant criticism from her peers began to undermine her confidence, making her hesitant to speak up in meetings.

   Synonyms: diminish, sabotage, weaken

   Origin: The word 'undermine' comes from the Middle English 'under-mynen,' which means 'to dig beneath.' It is formed from 'under' + 'mine,' where 'mine' originally meant 'to excavate or dig in,' signifying the physical act of eroding the foundation.

2. validate · verb/ˈvælɪˌdeɪt/

   to confirm the truth or accuracy of something

   The scientist conducted several experiments to validate her hypothesis about climate change.

   Synonyms: confirm, verify, authenticate

   Origin: from Latin 'validare', meaning 'to make valid'

3. conform · verb/kənˈfɔrm/

   to comply with rules, standards, or laws

   To ensure the safety of all employees, the company must conform to industry regulations regarding workplace safety.

   Synonyms: comply, adhere, follow

   Origin: from Latin 'conformare', from 'con-' (with) + 'formare' (to form)

4. infer · verb/ɪnˈfɜr/

   to deduce or conclude information from evidence and reasoning rather than from explicit statements

   From her smile and cheerful demeanor, I could easily infer that she had received good news.

   Synonyms: deduce, conclude, derive

   Origin: from Latin 'inferre', meaning 'to bring in, introduce' (in- 'in' + ferre 'to carry, bring')

5. restrict · verb/rɪˈstrɪkt/

   to limit the extent or range of something

   The new regulations will restrict access to certain areas of the park to protect wildlife.

   Synonyms: limit, constrain, inhibit

   Origin: From Latin 'restrictus', past participle of 'restringere', meaning 'to bind back'.