The fireworks display was absolutely spectacular, lighting up the night sky with vibrant colors.
synonyms
magnificentamazingimpressive
word origin — mid 19th century: from Latin 'spectacularis', from 'spectare' meaning 'to look at'.
spectacular, idle, improper, humid, superficial: meanings and examples
Learn these 5 words from IELTS Vocabulary set 41. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.
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'.
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'.
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'
humid · adjective/ˈhjuː.mɪd/
marked by a high level of moisture in the air
The humid weather made it feel much warmer than the actual temperature outside.
Synonyms: moist, damp, muggy
Origin: from Latin 'humidus', from 'humere' which means 'to be moist'
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'