constrain, dissuade, implore, avail, acquaint: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from TOEFL Vocabulary set 76. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. constrain · verb/kənˈstreɪn/

   to limit or restrict the action, development, or ability of something or someone

   The new regulations will constrain the company's ability to expand into international markets.

   Synonyms: restrict, limit, hinder

   Origin: Middle English 'constraindre', from Old French 'constraindre', from Latin 'constringere', meaning 'to bind together'.

2. dissuade · verb/dɪˈsweɪd/

   to persuade someone not to do something

   She tried to dissuade him from making the impulsive decision to quit his job.

   Synonyms: discourage, deter

   Origin: from Latin dissuadere, from dis- 'apart' + suadere 'to advise'.

3. implore · verb/ɪmˈplɔr/

   to beg someone earnestly or desperately to do something

   She implored her friend to reconsider his decision before it was too late.

   Synonyms: beseech, plead, entreat

   Origin: Middle English, from Latin 'implorare', from 'in-' meaning 'upon' + 'plorare' meaning 'to cry out' or 'to weep'

4. avail · verb/əˈveɪl/

   to make use of or take advantage of

   Many students availed themselves of the tutoring services offered by the school to improve their grades.

   Synonyms: utilize, exploit, leverage

   Origin: from Middle English 'avaylen', from Old French 'avaler', from Latin 'vallare' meaning 'to be of use'

5. acquaint · verb/əˈkwent/

   to make someone aware of or familiar with something

   The teacher will acquaint the students with the course syllabus during the first class.

   Synonyms: familiarize, notify, introduce

   Origin: From Middle English 'acquanten', from Anglo-French 'acointer', from Latin 'acquaintare', from 'ad-' + 'cognoscere' meaning 'to know'.