TOEFL Vocabulary — Set 147

Set 147 of TOEFL Vocabulary covers 5 words: accommodate, condone, impede, ascertain, elucidate. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. accommodate · verb/əˈkɑːmədeɪt/

   to provide what is needed or required

   The hotel was able to accommodate all of the guests who arrived unexpectedly during the holiday weekend.

   Synonyms: adjust, adapt, fit

   Origin: From Latin 'accommodare', which means 'to fit together' or 'to make fit'.

2. condone · verb/kənˈdoʊn/

   to accept and allow behavior that is considered morally wrong or offensive to continue

   The school administration does not condone cheating in any form, as it undermines the integrity of the educational system.

   Synonyms: tolerate, overlook, excuse

   Origin: from Latin 'condonare', meaning 'to give up, forgive', composed of 'con-' (with) + 'donare' (to give)

3. impede · verb/ɪmˈpid/

   to obstruct or hinder the progress of something

   Heavy traffic can impede the progress of emergency vehicles trying to reach an accident site quickly.

   Synonyms: obstruct, hinder, interfere

   Origin: from Latin 'impedire', meaning 'to catch in' or 'to hinder'

4. ascertain · verb/əˈsɜrˌteɪn/

   to find out or determine with certainty

   The detective worked tirelessly to ascertain the truth behind the mysterious events.

   Synonyms: determine, discover, establish

   Origin: Middle English 'ascertenen', from Latin 'ascertainare', meaning 'to make certain'

5. elucidate · verb/ɪˈluːsəˌdeɪt/

   to make something clear or easy to understand

   The teacher used a diagram to elucidate the complex concept of photosynthesis for her students.

   Synonyms: clarify, explain, illuminate

   Origin: derived from the Latin 'elucidatus', the past participle of 'elucidare', meaning 'to make clear' (from 'e-' out + 'lucid', light).