TOEFL Vocabulary — Set 124

Set 124 of TOEFL Vocabulary covers 5 words: anguish, accuracy, misanthrope, solitude, avocation. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. anguish · noun/ˈæŋɡwɪʃ/

   extreme suffering or distress

   After the accident, she was consumed by anguish as she faced the uncertainty of her recovery.

   Synonyms: suffering, torment, distress

   Origin: from Old French 'angoisse', which is derived from Latin 'angustia', meaning 'narrowness, distress'.

2. accuracy · noun/ˈækjɚəsi/

   the quality of being correct or precise

   The accuracy of the measurements was crucial for the success of the experiment.

   Synonyms: exactness, precision, correctness

   Origin: Middle English 'accuracie', from Latin 'accuratia', from 'accuratus' meaning 'carefully done'

3. misanthrope · noun/ˈmɪsənˌθroʊp/

   a person who dislikes humankind and avoids human society

   Despite his wealth and education, he became a complete misanthrope, shunning social gatherings and preferring the solace of his library.

   Synonyms: cynic, recluse, hermit

   Origin: from Greek 'misanthrōpos', meaning 'hating mankind' (from 'misein' (to hate) + 'anthrōpos' (man)).

4. solitude · noun/ˈsɑːlɪtuːd/

   the state of being alone or isolated from others

   After a long week of social engagements, she finally embraced the solitude of her cabin in the woods.

   Synonyms: seclusion, isolation, loneliness

   Origin: from Latin 'solitudo', from 'solus' meaning 'alone'

5. avocation · noun/ˌævəˈkeɪʃən/

   a secondary occupation or hobby pursued in addition to one's primary job or profession

   After a long week at the office, Sarah found joy in her avocation of painting landscapes on the weekends.

   Synonyms: hobby, pastime, sideline

   Origin: from Latin 'avocatio', meaning 'a calling away', from 'avocare', meaning 'to call away'