deficiency, optimization, acclaim, deficiency, policy, bias: meanings and examples

Learn these 6 words from IELTS Vocabulary set 85. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. deficiency · noun/dɪˈfɪʃ.ən.si/

   a lack or shortage of something necessary or desirable

   The patient was diagnosed with a vitamin D deficiency, which affected their overall health.

   Synonyms: shortage, lack, insufficiency

   Origin: from Middle French 'déficience' or Latin 'deficientia', meaning 'failing or lack'

2. optimization · noun/ˌɑːptɪmaɪˈzeɪʃən/

   the process of making something as effective or functional as possible

   Effective optimization of the website can significantly improve user experience and increase traffic.

   Synonyms: enhancement, improvement, refinement

   Origin: The word 'optimization' comes from the Latin 'optimus,' meaning 'best,' combined with the suffix '-ization,' which denotes the process of making or becoming.

3. acclaim · noun/əˈkleɪm/

   public praise or recognition

   The artist received widespread acclaim for her latest exhibition, which featured innovative and thought-provoking pieces.

   Synonyms: applause, praise, commendation

   Origin: from Latin 'acclamare', meaning 'to cry out' or 'to shout'

4. deficiency · noun/dɪˈfɪʃ.ən.si/

   a lack or shortage of something necessary or desirable

   The patient was diagnosed with a vitamin D deficiency, which affected their overall health.

   Synonyms: shortage, lack, insufficiency

   Origin: from Middle French 'déficience' or Latin 'deficientia', meaning 'failing or lack'

5. policy · noun/ˈpɑːləsi/

   a course or principle of action adopted or proposed by an organization or individual

   The company's hiring policy ensures that all candidates are evaluated equally regardless of their background.

   Synonyms: strategy, guideline, plan

   Origin: from Middle French 'policie', from Latin 'politia' meaning 'public affairs', ultimately from Greek 'politeia' meaning 'citizenship or state affairs'

6. bias · noun/ˈbaɪəs/

   a tendency to favor or lean towards one perspective or outcome over others

   The study was criticized for its selection bias, which skewed the results towards a particular demographic.

   Synonyms: prejudice, favoritism, inclination

   Origin: Middle French 'biais' meaning 'slant, slope', which originated from Old French 'bié', meaning 'crooked'.