ambivalence, audacity, idyll, panoply, abyss: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Proficient Plus set 2. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. ambivalence · noun/æmˈbɪvələns/

   the presence of conflicting feelings or attitudes towards a person, object, or situation

   Her ambivalence about moving to a new city made it hard for her to decide.

   Synonyms: mixed feelings, uncertainty, doubt

   Origin: from the Latin 'ambivalens', meaning 'having two values'

2. audacity · noun/ɔˈdæs.ə.ti/

   the willingness to take bold risks or show daring disregard for personal safety or conventional thought

   Her audacity to speak up in the meeting surprised everyone.

   Synonyms: boldness, daring, courage

   Origin: from Latin 'audacitas', from 'audax', meaning 'bold, daring'

3. idyll · noun/ˈɪd.əl/

   a peaceful or picturesque scene or situation often idealized

   The quiet village by the lake was a perfect idyll, full of charm and beauty.

   Synonyms: paradise, haven, utopia

   Origin: from Greek 'eidyllion', meaning 'little picture', which is a diminutive of 'eidolon', meaning 'image' or 'ideal'.

4. panoply · noun/ˈpænəpli/

   a complete or impressive collection of things

   The museum has a panoply of ancient artifacts that tell the story of our past.

   Synonyms: collection, array, display

   Origin: from Greek 'panoplia', meaning 'full armor' or 'complete equipment'

5. abyss · noun/əˈbɪs/

   a deep or seemingly bottomless chasm

   The climber looked down into the dark abyss, feeling both scared and amazed.

   Synonyms: chasm, deep, void

   Origin: The word 'abyss' comes from the Latin 'abyssus' and the Greek 'abussos', meaning 'bottomless'.