increasing rapidly by a constant proportion or factor
example
The exponential growth of technology has transformed how we communicate and access information.
synonyms
geometricrapidaccelerating
word origin — The word 'exponential' originates from the Latin word 'exponere', meaning 'to put forth', combined with the stem of 'exponens', which means 'putting forth', indicating growth measured by a constant ratio.
IELTS Vocabulary — Set 6
Set 6 of IELTS Vocabulary covers 5 words: exponential, strict, satisfactory, controversial, alert. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.
exponential · adjective/ˌɛkspəˈnɛnʃəl/
increasing rapidly by a constant proportion or factor
The exponential growth of technology has transformed how we communicate and access information.
Synonyms: geometric, rapid, accelerating
Origin: The word 'exponential' originates from the Latin word 'exponere', meaning 'to put forth', combined with the stem of 'exponens', which means 'putting forth', indicating growth measured by a constant ratio.
strict · adjective/strɪkt/
demanding that rules or standards be followed closely
The teacher imposed strict guidelines on the students to ensure they completed their assignments on time.
Synonyms: rigid, demanding, stern
Origin: from Latin 'strictus', past participle of 'stringere' meaning 'to draw tight'
satisfactory · adjective/ˌsætɪsˈfæktɪˌkɒr/
meeting the requirements or expectations
The feedback from the client was satisfactory, indicating that our services met their expectations.
Synonyms: acceptable, adequate, pleasing
Origin: from the late Middle English 'satisfactorye', from Latin 'satisfactorius', meaning 'fulfilling, satisfying'.
controversial · adjective/ˌkɑːn.trəˈvɝː.ʃəl/
likely to provoke public disagreement or widely differing opinions
The politician's controversial remarks about immigration sparked a heated debate among his constituents.
Synonyms: disputed, contentious, divisive
Origin: The word 'controversial' originates from the Latin 'controversialis,' meaning 'pertaining to a dispute,' which is derived from 'controversus,' meaning 'turned against.'
alert · adjective/əˈlɜrt/
being watchful and ready to respond to potential danger or problems
The security team remained alert during the event, ensuring that all attendees felt safe and secure.
Synonyms: vigilant, watchful, attentive
Origin: The word 'alert' comes from the Italian 'all'erta', meaning 'on the lookout', which is a combination of 'alla' (to the) and 'erta' (height). It entered English in the early 16th century.