TOEFL Vocabulary — Set 41

Set 41 of TOEFL Vocabulary covers 5 words: commiserate, entreat, fertilize, modify, vex. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. commiserate · verb/kəˈmɪzəˌreɪt/

   to express sympathy or pity for someone

   After hearing about her loss, I went over to commiserate with her and offer my support during this difficult time.

   Synonyms: sympathize, empathize, console

   Origin: From Latin 'commiserari', meaning 'to pity, feel sympathy for'; from 'com-' (together) + 'miserari' (to be miserable).

2. entreat · verb/ɪnˈtrit/

   to earnestly request or petition for something

   I entreat you to reconsider your decision before it's too late.

   Synonyms: implore, beseech, petition

   Origin: Middle English 'entreten', from Old French 'entriter', based on Latin 'intrare', meaning 'to enter'.

3. fertilize · verb/ˈfɜrtəˌlaɪz/

   to make soil or land more fertile by adding substances to it

   Farmers often fertilize their crops in the spring to ensure a bountiful harvest.

   Synonyms: enrich, amend, cultivate

   Origin: derived from Middle English 'fertilisen', from 'fertile' + '-ize'

4. modify · verb/ˈmɑː.də.faɪ/

   to change or alter something to improve it or make it more suitable

   The company decided to modify its marketing strategy to better target younger consumers.

   Synonyms: alter, adjust, amend

   Origin: The word 'modify' originates from the Latin word 'modificare', meaning 'to measure' or 'to limit', which is a combination of 'modus' (measure, manner) and 'facere' (to do, make).

5. vex · verb/vɛks/

   to annoy or disturb someone

   Her constant interruptions during the meeting began to vex the presenter, making it difficult for him to convey his message.

   Synonyms: irritate, annoy, disturb

   Origin: from Latin 'vexare', meaning 'to shake or disturb'