TOEFL Vocabulary — Set 121

Set 121 of TOEFL Vocabulary covers 5 words: exacerbate, juxtapose, illimunate, cajole, dissipate. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. exacerbate · verb/ɪɡˈzæs.ər.beɪt/

   to make a problem, situation, or feeling worse

   The lack of communication between the teams will only exacerbate the existing tensions within the project.

   Synonyms: aggravate, intensify, worsen

   Origin: From Latin 'exacerbāre', meaning to make harsh.

2. juxtapose · verb/ˌdʒʌkstəˈpoʊz/

   to place or deal with close together for contrasting effect

   The artist chose to juxtapose vibrant colors with muted tones to create a striking visual contrast in her painting.

   Synonyms: compare, contrast, position

   Origin: from Latin 'juxtapōnere', meaning 'to place next to'

3. illimunate · verb/ɪˈluməˌneɪt/

   to provide light or make something visible

   The streetlights illuminate the pathway, making it safer for pedestrians at night.

   Synonyms: light, brighten, clarify

   Origin: from Latin 'illuminare', meaning 'to light up' or 'to make light'

4. cajole · verb/kəˈdʒoʊl/

   to persuade someone to do something through flattery or deceitful means

   She was able to cajole her boss into giving her a raise by complimenting his leadership skills.

   Synonyms: coax, wheedle, entice

   Origin: The word 'cajole' comes from the French 'cajoler', which means 'to chatter like a jay' and has its origins in the late 17th century.

5. dissipate · verb/ˈdɪs.ɪ.peɪt/

   to disappear or cause to disappear gradually

   As the sun began to rise, the morning fog started to dissipate, revealing the picturesque landscape beneath.

   Synonyms: disperse, vanish, dissolve

   Origin: from Latin 'dissipare', meaning 'to scatter, disperse'.