Intermediate — Set 100

Set 100 of Intermediate covers 5 words: function, loneliness, suggestion, behaviour, statement. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. function · noun/ˈfəŋ(k)ʃən/

   a purpose that is aimed at a person or a thing

   It is thought that all works of art also perform a social function.

   Synonyms: action, role, activity

   Origin: mid 16th century: from French fonction, from Latin functio(n-), from fungi ‘perform’

2. loneliness · noun/ˈloʊnlinəs/

   the state of being alone

   You need to learn ways to combat loneliness before you get old.

   Synonyms: isolation, solitude

3. suggestion · noun/səˈdʒɛstʃən/

   an idea that you propose for use

   Schools can make formal suggestions to the department of education with ideas to improve the current system.

   Synonyms: advice, recommendation, proposal

   Origin: Middle English (in the sense ‘an incitement to evil’): via Old French from Latin suggestio(n-), from the verb suggerere (see suggest)

4. behaviour · noun/bɪˈheɪvjə/

   the way a person acts

   Witnessing unpleasant events and traumatic experiences can lead to changes in a person's behaviour.

   Synonyms: conduct, act, attitude

5. statement · noun/ˈsteɪtmənt/

   something that you say or write to make it public

   The minister for health will make a statement about the recent H1N1 virus that is affecting thousands in the country.

   Synonyms: explanation, declaration, assertion