IELTS Vocabulary — Set 47

Set 47 of IELTS Vocabulary covers 5 words: furnish, precede, distinguish, intervene, scare. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. furnish · verb/ˈfɜrnɪʃ/

   to provide or supply with necessary items or equipment

   The organization decided to furnish the new community center with essential furniture and supplies to support local activities.

   Synonyms: supply, provide, equip

   Origin: Middle English 'furnisshen', from Old French 'furnir', from Latin 'furnire' meaning 'to supply or provide'.

2. precede · verb/prɪˈsiːd/

   to come before in time or order

   The introduction will always precede the main presentation, setting the stage for what’s to come.

   Synonyms: antecede, forego, predate

   Origin: Middle English 'preceden', from Latin 'praecedere', from 'prae-' (before) + 'cedere' (to go)

3. distinguish · verb/dɪsˈtɪŋɡwɪʃ/

   to recognize or perceive the difference between two or more things

   It's often difficult to distinguish between identical twins due to their similar appearances.

   Synonyms: discern, differentiate, recognize

   Origin: Middle English distintuen, from Latin distinguere, meaning 'to separate, divide, or make distinct'

4. intervene · verb/ˌɪn.tɚˈvin/

   to come between so as to hinder or modify an action or effect

   The teacher decided to intervene in the argument between the two students to prevent it from escalating.

   Synonyms: intercede, mediate, interfere

   Origin: from Latin 'intervenire' meaning 'to come between'

5. scare · verb/skɛr/

   to cause sudden fear or anxiety

   The loud thunderstorm outside scared the children, making them cling to their parents.

   Synonyms: frighten, alarm, terrify

   Origin: from Middle English 'scharen', which probably originates from the Old Norse 'skera' meaning to cut.