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incendiary

adjective/ɪnˈsɛnˌdɛri/

definition

tending to stir up conflict or controversy

example

The politician's incendiary remarks during the debate sparked widespread outrage across the nation.

synonyms
provocativeinflammatorycontroversial
word origin — from Latin 'incendiarius', from 'incendium' meaning 'fire'

TOEFL Vocabulary — Set 4

Set 4 of TOEFL Vocabulary covers 5 words: incendiary, demure, quintessential, commonplace, proficient. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. incendiary · adjective/ɪnˈsɛnˌdɛri/

    tending to stir up conflict or controversy

    The politician's incendiary remarks during the debate sparked widespread outrage across the nation.

    Synonyms: provocative, inflammatory, controversial

    Origin: from Latin 'incendiarius', from 'incendium' meaning 'fire'

  2. demure · adjective/dɪˈmjʊr/

    modest or reserved in manner or behavior

    She wore a demure dress to the party, choosing soft colors and simple patterns that reflected her modest style.

    Synonyms: modest, reserved, shy

    Origin: from Middle English 'demure', from Old French 'demourer' meaning 'to dwell, to remain', which comes from Latin 'morari', meaning 'to delay or linger'.

  3. quintessential · adjective/kwɪnˈtɛnʃəl/

    representing the most perfect or typical example of a quality or class

    Her performance was the quintessential expression of artistry, captivating the audience with every note.

    Synonyms: typical, exemplary, ideal

    Origin: from Latin 'quintessentia', meaning 'the fifth essence'.

  4. commonplace · adjective/ˈkɑːmənpleɪs/

    occurring or found often; ordinary or unremarkable

    In today's society, the use of smartphones has become a commonplace occurrence in everyday life.

    Synonyms: ordinary, common, usual

    Origin: The word 'commonplace' comes from the late Middle English 'common place', where 'common' means shared by all, and 'place' refers to a particular position or location.

  5. proficient · adjective/prəˈfɪʃənt/

    having a high degree of skill or competence

    She is proficient in several programming languages, which makes her a valuable asset to the team.

    Synonyms: skillful, adept, competent

    Origin: from Middle French 'proficient', from Latin 'proficientem', present participle of 'proficere' meaning 'to make progress, advance'.