TOEFL Vocabulary — Set 2

Set 2 of TOEFL Vocabulary covers 5 words: compelling, sagacious, prodigal, eccentric, wan. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. compelling · adjective/kəmˈpɛlɪŋ/

   evoking interest, attention, or admiration in a powerful way

   The documentary presented a compelling argument for the need to address climate change urgently.

   Synonyms: engaging, intriguing, gripping

   Origin: derived from the Latin 'compellere', meaning 'to drive together', from 'com-' (together) + 'pellere' (to drive)

2. sagacious · adjective/səˈɡeɪ.ʃəs/

   having or showing keen mental discernment and good judgment

   Her sagacious advice turned out to be the key to solving the complex problem.

   Synonyms: wise, insightful, judicious

   Origin: from Latin 'sagax', meaning 'keen' or 'sharp'

3. prodigal · adjective/ˈprɑː.dɪ.ɡəl/

   spending money or resources freely and recklessly; wastefully extravagant

   Despite his talent, the prodigal son squandered his inheritance on lavish parties and extravagant vacations.

   Synonyms: wasteful, extravagant, lavish

   Origin: from Latin 'prodigalis', from 'prodigus' meaning 'wasteful'

4. eccentric · adjective/ɪkˈsɛntrɪk/

   deviating from the recognized or customary character or practice

   The artist was known for her eccentric style, which combined bold colors and unusual materials.

   Synonyms: unconventional, bizarre, peculiar

   Origin: From Middle French 'excentrique', from Latin 'excentricus', from Greek 'ekkentros', meaning 'out of the center'.

5. wan · adjective/wɔːn/

   pale and giving the impression of illness or exhaustion

   After the long illness, her face had a wan expression that worried her family.

   Synonyms: pale, ashen, sallow

   Origin: Middle English 'wan', from Old English 'wanian' meaning to diminish or decline.