contemplate, insincere, pivot, yield, adept: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Advanced Plus set 26. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. contemplate · verb/ˈkɑːntəmpleɪt/

   to think deeply or consider carefully

   I like to contemplate my future before making a big decision.

   Synonyms: ponder, consider, reflect

   Origin: from Latin 'contemplari', meaning 'to observe, to consider'

2. insincere · adjective/ˌɪn.sɪnˈsɪr/

   not expressing genuine feelings or thoughts

   His apology felt insincere because he didn't really mean it.

   Synonyms: disingenuous, false, hypocritical

   Origin: from Latin 'insincerus', meaning 'not sincere'

3. pivot · noun/ˈpɪv.ət/

   a central point, shaft, or pin on which a mechanism turns or oscillates

   The door swings on a pivot, making it easy to open and close.

   Synonyms: axis

   Origin: from Middle French 'pivot', from Latin 'pivotalis' meaning 'of a pivot'

4. yield · verb/jiːld/

   to produce or provide a natural or financial return

   The farm will yield a good crop of apples this year.

   Synonyms: produce, generate, provide

   Origin: Old English 'gieldan', meaning 'to pay or to repay'

5. adept · adjective/əˈdɛpt/

   highly skilled at a particular activity

   She is adept at solving math problems quickly and accurately.

   Synonyms: skilled, proficient, expert

   Origin: from Latin 'adeptus', meaning 'to reach, obtain' (the past participle of 'adipisci')