TOEFL Vocabulary — Set 43

Set 43 of TOEFL Vocabulary covers 5 words: diffuse, implicate, mitigate, infer, implement. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. diffuse · verb/dɪˈfjus/

   to spread out over a larger area or to cause something to become less concentrated

   The scientist used a fan to diffuse the scent of the perfume throughout the room.

   Synonyms: spread, disperse, dissipate

   Origin: from Latin 'diffusis', the past participle of 'diffundere', meaning 'to pour out' or 'to spread out'

2. implicate · verb/ˈɪmplɪkeɪt/

   to show that someone or something is involved in a crime or to imply a relationship

   The evidence collected at the crime scene seemed to implicate the suspect in the robbery.

   Synonyms: involve, imply, suggest

   Origin: from Latin 'implicare', meaning 'to involve, entangle', from 'in-' (into) + 'plicare' (to fold)

3. mitigate · verb/ˈmɪtɪˌɡeɪt/

   to make less severe, serious, or painful

   The government implemented several policies to mitigate the impact of the recession on low-income families.

   Synonyms: alleviate, reduce, lessen

   Origin: Middle English from Latin 'mitigare', meaning 'to soften, make mild'.

4. infer · verb/ɪnˈfɜr/

   to deduce or conclude information from evidence and reasoning rather than from explicit statements

   Based on the clues left at the crime scene, the detective was able to infer the suspect's motive for the crime.

   Synonyms: deduce, conclude, derive

   Origin: From Latin 'inferre', meaning 'to carry in, bring in, or bring about'.

5. implement · verb/ˈɪmpləmənt/

   to put a decision, plan, or agreement into effect

   The company plans to implement a new strategy to improve customer satisfaction.

   Synonyms: execute, apply, enforce

   Origin: from Latin 'implementum', meaning 'a filling up, fulfillment', derived from 'implere', meaning 'to fill up'