vitriolic, strategic, raucous, rapacious, conventional: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from TOEFL Vocabulary set 152. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. vitriolic · adjective/ˌvɪtriˈɑlɪk/

   filled with bitter criticism or malice

   The politician's vitriolic attacks on his opponent alienated many potential voters.

   Synonyms: caustic, acerbic, scathing

   Origin: from Latin 'vitriolum', meaning 'sulphate of iron'; figuratively associated with bitterness

2. strategic · adjective/strəˈtiːdʒɪk/

   relating to the identification of long-term or overall aims and interests and the means of achieving them

   The company's strategic plan focuses on expanding its market share over the next five years.

   Synonyms: tactical, planned, calculated

   Origin: The word 'strategic' is derived from the Greek word 'strategos', meaning 'general' or 'military leader', which is composed of 'stratos' (army) and 'ago' (to lead).

3. raucous · adjective/ˈrɔ.kəs/

   making a disturbing or harsh noise

   The raucous laughter from the party next door made it impossible for me to concentrate on my work.

   Synonyms: noisy, boisterous, loud

   Origin: Derived from the Latin word 'raucus,' meaning 'hoarse' or 'rough in sound.'

4. rapacious · adjective/rəˈpeɪ.ʃəs/

   having or showing a strong eagerness for greedily seeking to acquire or possess something, usually wealth

   The rapacious investors sought to acquire every profitable asset in the market, disregarding the consequences of their greed.

   Synonyms: greedy, ravenous, voracious

   Origin: from Latin 'rapax', meaning 'grasping' or 'seizing', derived from 'rapere', which means 'to seize'

5. conventional · adjective/kənˈvɛnʃənl/

   based on or in accordance with what is generally done or believed

   Many people still prefer the conventional methods of teaching rather than embracing newer techniques.

   Synonyms: traditional, customary, standard

   Origin: From Middle French 'conventionnel', from Latin 'conventionem' (to come together)