IELTS Vocabulary — Set 41

Set 41 of IELTS Vocabulary covers 5 words: spectacular, idle, improper, splendid, superficial. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. spectacular · adjective/spɛkˈtæk.jə.lɚ/

   strikingly grand or impressive

   The fireworks display was absolutely spectacular, lighting up the night sky with vibrant colors.

   Synonyms: magnificent, amazing, impressive

   Origin: mid 19th century: from Latin 'spectacularis', from 'spectare' meaning 'to look at'.

2. idle · adjective/ˈaɪ.dl/

   not active or not in use

   The factory has remained idle since production was halted last year.

   Synonyms: inactive, unemployed, unused

   Origin: Middle English, from Old English 'idela', meaning 'empty, vain, or worthless'.

3. improper · adjective/ɪmˈprɑpər/

   not in accordance with propriety or morality

   The committee reprimanded him for his improper behavior during the meeting.

   Synonyms: unacceptable, inappropriate, unsuitable

   Origin: Middle English, from Latin 'improprius', meaning 'not one's own' or 'not proper'

4. splendid · adjective/ˈsplɛndɪd/

   magnificent or very impressive

   The view from the mountaintop was absolutely splendid, offering a breathtaking panorama of the valley below.

   Synonyms: magnificent, impressive, fabulous

   Origin: from Middle English, from Latin 'splendidus' meaning 'bright or shining'

5. superficial · adjective/ˌsuː.pɚˈfɪʃ.əl/

   lacking depth or substance; shallow

   The movie received criticism for its superficial plot that failed to explore the characters' motivations deeply.

   Synonyms: shallow, surface, trivial

   Origin: from Latin 'superficialis', from 'superficies' meaning 'surface'