speculation, essence, limb, sin, trigger: meanings and examples

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

1. speculation · noun/ˌspɛkjuˈleɪʃən/

   the act of forming opinions or theories without firm evidence

   The financial analyst's speculation about the company's future earnings led many investors to buy shares based solely on her predictions.

   Synonyms: guess, conjecture, hypothesis

   Origin: Late Latin 'speculatio', from 'speculari' meaning 'to look, observe'

2. essence · noun/ˈɛsəns/

   the intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something that determines its character

   The essence of democracy lies in the participation of its citizens in decision-making processes.

   Synonyms: nature, core, substance

   Origin: from Latin 'essentia', meaning 'being' or 'essence'

3. limb · noun/lɪm/

   a jointed appendage of the human or animal body

   After the accident, she had to undergo surgery to repair the broken limb that was severely injured.

   Synonyms: appendage, extremity, arm

   Origin: from Old English 'lim', meaning 'limb, joint, or part of the body'

4. sin · noun/sɪn/

   an act regarded as a serious offense against religious or moral law

   Many believers confess their sins to seek forgiveness and strengthen their spiritual resolve.

   Synonyms: transgression, wrongdoing, vice

   Origin: Old English 'synn', of uncertain origin; related to Old Norse 'synd' and German 'Sünde'.

5. trigger · noun/ˈtrɪɡər/

   an event or situation that causes something to happen

   The earthquake was a trigger for the sudden increase in insurance claims from homeowners.

   Synonyms: catalyst, impetus, incitement

   Origin: Originates from the early 19th century, probably from the Dutch 'trekker', meaning 'to pull or drag'.