TOEFL Vocabulary — Set 145

Set 145 of TOEFL Vocabulary covers 5 words: circumstance, fledgling, prosecutor, duration, foreboding. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. circumstance · noun/ˈsɜr.kəm.stæns/

   a fact or condition connected with or relevant to an event or action

   Due to unforeseen circumstances, the event was postponed until next month.

   Synonyms: situation, condition, account

   Origin: From Middle French 'circonstance', from Latin 'circumstantia', from 'circumstare' meaning 'to stand around'

2. fledgling · noun/ˈflɛdʒlɪŋ/

   a young bird that has just acquired its feathers for flying or a person or organization that is inexperienced or newly established

   The fledgling took its first flight, wobbling awkwardly as it soared into the sky.

   Synonyms: neophyte, novice, rookie

   Origin: Late Middle English from the word 'fledgling,' which is a diminutive form of 'fledge,' referring to a bird acquiring feathers.

3. prosecutor · noun/ˈprɑsɪˌkjutər/

   a legal representative who accuses someone in a court of law

   The prosecutor presented compelling evidence that led to the defendant's conviction.

   Synonyms: attorney, district attorney, public prosecutor

   Origin: from Middle English 'prosecutour', from Latin 'prosecutor', meaning 'to pursue or follow up'.

4. duration · noun/duˈreɪʃən/

   the length of time something lasts

   The duration of the movie is two hours and fifteen minutes, making it one of the longest films in recent years.

   Synonyms: length, period, time span

   Origin: from Middle English 'duracion', from Old French 'duracion', from Latin 'duratio', from 'durare' meaning 'to last'

5. foreboding · noun/fɔrˈboʊ.dɪŋ/

   a feeling that something bad will happen

   As the dark clouds rolled in and the wind picked up, a sense of foreboding filled the air, making everyone anxious about the impending storm.

   Synonyms: premonition, apprehension, apprehensiveness

   Origin: The word 'foreboding' comes from the prefix 'fore-' meaning 'before' and 'boding', which is derived from the Old English 'bodian' meaning 'to announce'.