unify, validate, arraign, concur, confine: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from TOEFL Vocabulary set 160. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. unify · verb/ˈjuː.nə.faɪ/

   to bring together or combine into a single entity or group

   The organization's mission is to unify diverse communities under a common goal of sustainability.

   Synonyms: merge, unite, consolidate

   Origin: from Latin 'unificare', from 'uni-' meaning 'one' and 'facere' meaning 'to make'

2. validate · verb/ˈvæl.ɪ.deɪt/

   to confirm the truth or accuracy of something

   The research conducted by the scientists helped to validate the theory proposed in earlier studies.

   Synonyms: confirm, verify, authenticate

   Origin: from Latin 'validare', meaning 'to make valid'

3. arraign · verb/əˈreɪn/

   to formally accuse someone of a crime in a court of law

   The judge decided to arraign the suspect on multiple charges, including theft and assault.

   Synonyms: accuse, charge, indict

   Origin: Middle English 'areine' from Old French 'arainer', based on Latin 'ad-' (to) + 'reginare' (to call to account)

4. concur · verb/kənˈkɜr/

   to agree or have the same opinion

   The committee members all concurred with the proposed changes to the policy.

   Synonyms: agree, coincide

   Origin: from Latin 'concurrere' meaning 'to run together'

5. confine · verb/kənˈfaɪn/

   to restrict or limit within certain boundaries

   The new policies will confine the use of plastic bags in the city to reduce waste.

   Synonyms: restrict, limit, enclose

   Origin: Middle English 'confin', from Old French 'confiner', from Latin 'confinare', meaning 'to bound together'.