cooperative, constructive, obtainable, unreliable, rewarding: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Upper-Intermediate set 84. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. cooperative · adjective/koʊˈɑp(ə)rədɪv/

   willing to do a task together with others

   In language learning, cooperative activities play an important role in improving the language production.

   Synonyms: helpful, collegial

   Origin: early 17th century: from late Latin cooperativus, from Latin cooperat- ‘worked together’, from the verb cooperari (see cooperate)

2. constructive · adjective/kənˈstrəktɪv/

   so beneficial that it is likely to lead to good results

   Constructive feedback is issue-focused, information specific and helpful but it must give the receiver the chance to respond.

   Synonyms: effective, positive, productive

   Origin: mid 17th century (in constructive): from late Latin constructivus, from Latin construct- ‘heap together’, from the verb construere (see construct)

3. obtainable · adjective/əbˈteɪnəb(ə)l/

   possible to obtain or acquire

   The materials for further study should be obtainable from the school library so that students will have the easy access to them.

   Synonyms: achievable, attainable, available

4. unreliable · adjective/ˌənrəˈlaɪəb(ə)l/

   not dependable or consistent

   He had such an unreliable car that its engine stopped many times during the trip and made the vacation a horrible one.

   Synonyms: untrustworthy, deceptive, inaccurate

5. rewarding · adjective/rəˈwɔrdɪŋ/

   giving you happiness because something you have done is useful

   Despite its difficulties, teaching could be a very rewarding job especially with little kids as you see their progress clearly.

   Synonyms: beneficial, pleasing, gratifying