simultaneous, notable, refreshing, artificial, descriptive: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from IELTS Vocabulary set 51. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. simultaneous · adjective/ˌsɪmlˈteɪnəs/

   occurring or done at the same time

   The conference featured simultaneous translations in multiple languages, ensuring all attendees could understand the discussions.

   Synonyms: concurrent, coincident, synchronous

   Origin: from Latin 'simultaneus', from 'simul' meaning 'at the same time'

2. notable · adjective/ˈnoʊ.tə.bəl/

   worthy of attention or significant enough to be noticed

   Her contributions to the project were particularly notable, as they significantly improved the final results.

   Synonyms: remarkable, noteworthy, significant

   Origin: Middle English, from Old French 'notable', from Latin 'notabilis', meaning 'worthy of being noted'.

3. refreshing · adjective/rɪˈfrɛʃ.ɪŋ/

   having a pleasingly fresh or cool quality

   After a long hike, the cool breeze was incredibly refreshing, revitalizing our spirits.

   Synonyms: revitalizing, invigorating, rejuvenating

   Origin: from Old French 'refreischir', derived from 're-' (again) + 'freis' (fresh)

4. artificial · adjective/ˌɑrtɪˈfɪʃəl/

   made or produced by human beings rather than occurring naturally

   The artificial intelligence system was designed to help doctors diagnose diseases more accurately.

   Synonyms: synthetic, man-made, fabricated

   Origin: from Latin 'artificialis', from 'artificium' meaning 'craftsmanship, skill' and 'artis' meaning 'art'

5. descriptive · adjective/dɪˈskrɪptɪv/

   serving to describe or provide details about something

   The novel was filled with vivid and descriptive language that painted a picture of the landscape.

   Synonyms: explanatory, illustrative, detailed

   Origin: from the Latin word 'descriptivus', which comes from 'describere' meaning 'to describe'