potable, sanguine, resilient, theoretical, sentimental: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from TOEFL Vocabulary set 123. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. potable · adjective/ˈpoʊ.t̬ə.bəl/

   suitable for drinking

   The town's water supply is tested regularly to ensure it is potable and safe for residents to drink.

   Synonyms: drinkable, safe to drink, refreshing

   Origin: from Latin 'potabilis', from 'potare' meaning 'to drink'

2. sanguine · adjective/ˈsæŋɡwɪn/

   optimistic or positive, especially in an apparently bad or difficult situation

   Despite the challenges ahead, she remained sanguine about the project's success and the team's ability to overcome obstacles.

   Synonyms: optimistic, hopeful, positive

   Origin: From Middle French sanguin, from Latin sanguinem meaning 'blood', which is related to a ruddy or healthy complexion.

3. resilient · adjective/rɪˈzɪl.jənt/

   able to recover quickly from difficult conditions

   Despite facing numerous challenges, the community proved to be remarkably resilient in rebuilding their lives after the natural disaster.

   Synonyms: tenacious, tough, adaptable

   Origin: from Latin 'resilientem', meaning 'to spring back' or 'bounce back'

4. theoretical · adjective/θiˈɔrɪtɪkəl/

   based on or calculated through theory rather than experience or practice

   Theoretical frameworks help researchers develop hypotheses that can be tested through empirical study.

   Synonyms: conceptual, hypothetical, abstract

   Origin: From Greek 'theōrētikos', meaning 'inward' or 'speculative', deriving from 'theōrein', meaning 'to look at' or 'to observe'.

5. sentimental · adjective/ˌsɛnəˈmɛntl/

   excessively emotional or influenced by feelings rather than reason

   She is often criticized for being too sentimental about her childhood memories, holding onto them even when they no longer serve her.

   Synonyms: emotional, nostalgic, tender

   Origin: from the Latin 'sentire' meaning 'to feel'