convincing, flattering, relieving, insulting, frustrating: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Upper-Intermediate set 45. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. convincing · adjective/kənˈvɪnsɪŋ/

   causing someone to believe the truth of something

   They fired the employee because there was convincing evidence that he stole 10.000 dollars from the company.

   Synonyms: powerful, persuasive

2. flattering · adjective/ˈflædərɪŋ/

   making someone look or sound as good as possible

   The philosopher who is living in a small village on the Middle East has refused a flattering offer to go on a lecture tour across Europe.

   Synonyms: complimentary

3. relieving · adjective/rəˈliv/

   making pain, worry, or stress less severe

   He has found it relieving that he was not the only one finding the test challenging.

   Synonyms: comforting, alleviating

   Origin: Middle English: from Old French relever, from Latin relevare, from re- (expressing intensive force) + levare ‘raise’ (from levis ‘light’)

4. insulting · adjective/ɪnˈsəltɪŋ/

   expressing extreme lack of respect

   Bullying is a widespread problem which is defined as offensive, intimidating or insulting behaviour and an abuse or misuse of power.

   Synonyms: degrading, offensive

5. frustrating · adjective/ˈfrəˌstreɪdɪŋ/

   causing annoyance because something is difficult or unsuccessful

   Black Friday could be a frustrating experience for many people as the lines at the checkout are too long and people push each other in the stores.

   Synonyms: disappointing, discouraging