obstruction, flame, reminiscence, reduction, liberation: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from IELTS Vocabulary set 97. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. obstruction · noun/əbˈstrʌkʃən/

   something that prevents or hinders progress or movement

   The obstruction caused by the fallen tree blocked the entire road, preventing vehicles from passing.

   Synonyms: hindrance, impediment, barrier

   Origin: The word 'obstruction' originates from the Latin 'obstructio', which comes from 'obstruere', meaning 'to block up, hinder' (from 'ob-' meaning 'against' + 'struere' meaning 'to build').

2. flame · noun/fleɪm/

   the visible, gaseous part of a fire that produces light and heat

   The candle's flame flickered gently in the dark room, casting soft shadows on the walls.

   Synonyms: fire, blaze, glow

   Origin: Middle English 'flame', from Old French 'flame', from Latin 'flamma'

3. reminiscence · noun/ˌrɛmɪˈnɪsəns/

   the act of recalling past experiences or memories

   During our family gathering, the reminiscence of past holidays brought smiles to everyone's faces.

   Synonyms: recollection, memory, remembrance

   Origin: from the Latin 'reminiscentia', which comes from 'reminisci' meaning 'to remember'

4. reduction · noun/rɪˈdʌkʃən/

   the act of making something smaller or less in amount or size

   The company implemented a significant cost reduction to improve its financial stability.

   Synonyms: decrease, diminution, deduction

   Origin: Latin 'reductio', from 'reducere', meaning 'to bring back' or 'to lead back'

5. liberation · noun/lɪbəˈreɪʃən/

   the act of setting someone free from imprisonment, slavery, or oppression

   The liberation of the oppressed people was celebrated with a grand ceremony, marking the end of decades of tyranny.

   Synonyms: freedom, release, emancipation

   Origin: From Latin 'liberatio', from 'liberare' meaning 'to free'.