subjective, subordinate, tentative, sympathetic, ingenious: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from IELTS Vocabulary set 78. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. subjective · adjective/səbˈdʒɛk.tɪv/

   based on personal opinions, interpretations, feelings, or perceptions

   Art is inherently subjective, as each viewer interprets a piece differently based on their personal experiences.

   Synonyms: personal, individual, experiential

   Origin: from Latin 'subjectivus', meaning 'belonging to the subject' or 'lying under'.

2. subordinate · adjective/səˈbɔːr.də.nɪt/

   of lower rank or importance

   In the organization, there are several subordinate employees who report directly to the manager.

   Synonyms: inferior, secondary, minor

   Origin: from Latin 'subordinatus', meaning 'placed lower under'

3. tentative · adjective/ˈtɛn.tə.tɪv/

   not certain or fixed; provisional

   The committee reached a tentative agreement on the budget, but further discussions are needed before it is finalized.

   Synonyms: uncertain, provisional, temporary

   Origin: from Latin 'tentativus', from 'tentare' meaning 'to try, test'

4. sympathetic · adjective/ˌsɪmpəˈθɛtɪk/

   having or showing compassion or understanding

   The counselor was very sympathetic to the student's struggles, offering support and understanding during their difficult time.

   Synonyms: compassionate, understanding, empathetic

   Origin: from late Latin 'sympatheticus' and Greek 'sympathetes', meaning 'fellow feeling'

5. ingenious · adjective/ɪnˈdʒiː.njəs/

   cleverly inventive or resourceful

   The engineer came up with an ingenious solution to the complex problem of traffic congestion in the city.

   Synonyms: clever, inventive, resourceful

   Origin: from Latin 'ingeniosus', meaning 'clever, talented, or gifted'