restrict, deride, incriminate, abandon, detract: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from TOEFL Vocabulary set 34. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. restrict · verb/rɪˈstrɪkt/

   to limit or control the extent or range of something

   The new regulations are designed to restrict access to sensitive information.

   Synonyms: limit, confine, curb

   Origin: Middle English 'restreinte', from Old French 'restreindre', from Latin 'restringere' meaning 'to bind back'

2. deride · verb/dɪˈraɪd/

   to express contempt or ridicule for

   Critics often deride the new film, calling it a shallow imitation of better works.

   Synonyms: ridicule, mock, scorn

   Origin: from Latin 'deridere', from 'de-' (down) + 'ridere' (to laugh)

3. incriminate · verb/ɪnˈkrɪməˌneɪt/

   to make someone appear guilty of a crime or wrongdoing

   The evidence found at the crime scene may incriminate the suspect in the robbery.

   Synonyms: implicate, accuse, blame

   Origin: from Latin 'incriminare', meaning 'to accuse' or 'to charge with a crime'

4. abandon · verb/əˈbændən/

   to give up completely a practice or a course of action

   After years of trying to make the project work, the team decided to abandon the approach and look for new solutions.

   Synonyms: forsake, relinquish, desert

   Origin: Middle English 'abandonen', from Old French 'abandoner', from Latin 'abandonare', meaning 'to give up, surrender'.

5. detract · verb/dɪˈtrækt/

   to reduce the worth or value of something

   The constant delays in the project could detract from its overall quality and success.

   Synonyms: diminish, lessen, undermine

   Origin: From Latin 'detractio', from 'detract' meaning 'to take away or reduce'.