preclude, stipulate, demarcate, ascribe, vivify: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Proficient Plus set 86. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. preclude · verb/prɪˈklud/

   to make something impossible or prevent it from happening

   The heavy rain may preclude our picnic in the park.

   Synonyms: prevent, exclude, hinder

   Origin: From Latin 'praecludere', where 'prae-' means 'before' and 'claudere' means 'to close'.

2. stipulate · verb/ˈstɪpjəˌleɪt/

   to specify a condition or requirement as part of an agreement

   The teacher will stipulate the rules for the project before we start.

   Synonyms: specify, detail, require

   Origin: from Latin 'stipulatus', past participle of 'stipulari', meaning 'to make a formal promise'

3. demarcate · verb/ˌdiː.mɑrˈkeɪt/

   to set the boundaries or limits of something

   The teacher used lines on the paper to demarcate the different sections of the test.

   Synonyms: mark, define, outline

   Origin: from Latin 'demarcatio', meaning 'to mark off or limit'

4. ascribe · verb/əˈskraɪb/

   to attribute something to a cause or source

   Many people ascribe their success to hard work and determination.

   Synonyms: attribute, assign, credit

   Origin: from Latin 'ascribere', meaning 'to write to' or 'add to'

5. vivify · verb/ˈvɪv.ɪ.faɪ/

   to bring to life or animate

   The artist used bright colors to vivify the painting and make it more lively.

   Synonyms: energize, enliven, animate

   Origin: from Latin 'vivificare', which means 'to make alive'