crack, ditch, methodology, lodging, counterpart: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from IELTS Vocabulary set 73. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. crack · noun/kræk/

   a narrow opening or fracture in a surface

   After the storm, I noticed a crack in the wall that needed to be repaired.

   Synonyms: fissure, fracture, split

   Origin: Middle English 'crak', from Old Norse 'kraka', meaning to crack, break.

2. ditch · noun/dɪtʃ/

   a long narrow excavation in the ground for drainage or irrigation

   The farmer dug a deep ditch alongside the field to improve drainage and prevent flooding during the rainy season.

   Synonyms: trench, gully, canal

   Origin: Middle English dicche, from Old English dic, meaning 'ditch, trench', which is of uncertain origin.

3. methodology · noun/ˌmɛθəˈdɑləʤi/

   a systematic, theoretical analysis of the methods applied to a field of study

   The research methodology outlined in the proposal emphasizes the importance of quantitative analysis in understanding social phenomena.

   Synonyms: approach, system, procedure

   Origin: From the Greek 'methodos' meaning 'pursuit of knowledge', combined with the suffix '-logy' which means 'study of'.

4. lodging · noun/ˈlɑːdʒ.ɪŋ/

   a place to stay or live temporarily

   The hikers found affordable lodging near the trailhead for their weekend adventure.

   Synonyms: accommodation, housing, dwelling

   Origin: Middle English 'lodginge', from ' lodge', which comes from Old French 'loge' meaning 'shelter' or 'hiding place'

5. counterpart · noun/ˈkaʊntərpɑrt/

   a person or thing that has a similar function or position in a different context

   The CEO of the tech company discussed strategies with her counterpart at the rival firm to explore potential collaboration.

   Synonyms: equivalent, match, parallel

   Origin: late Middle English: from Old French 'counterpart', from 'contre' (against) + 'part' (part).