reputation, exception, achievement, circumstance, companion: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Upper-Intermediate set 90. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. reputation · noun/ˌrɛpjəˈteɪʃən/

   the opinion that you have about somebody or something due to what has happened in the past

   Sweden has a reputation for being one of the most open-minded and welcoming countries around the world.

   Synonyms: fame, prominence, position

   Origin: Middle English: from Latin reputatio(n-), from reputare ‘think over’ (see repute)

2. exception · noun/ɪkˈsɛpʃən/

   a person or thing that does not follow a general rule or pattern

   In every language, there are many exceptions to grammar rules and that situation makes the learners' frustrated.

   Synonyms: exclusion, omission

   Origin: late Middle English: via Old French from Latin exceptio(n-), from excipere ‘take out’ (see except)

3. achievement · noun/əˈtʃivm(ə)nt/

   a positive result that is gained by effort

   Finishing the project in just 3 months was a great achievement as it included highly detailed scientific work and collaboration with the experts on the field.

   Synonyms: accomplishment, attainment, success

4. circumstance · noun/ˈsərkəmˌstæns/

   a fact or condition that affects a situation

   Many people stole food during famine as they had no other choice to survive but I cannot imagine another circumstance where I will have to steal something.

   Synonyms: situation, condition, factor

   Origin: Middle English: from Old French circonstance or Latin circumstantia, from circumstare ‘encircle, encompass’, from circum ‘around’ + stare ‘stand’

5. companion · noun/kəmˈpænjən/

   a person or an animal who is with you

   People who own a dog claim that it has become their closest companion and so an indispensable member of their family.

   Synonyms: friend, helper, mate

   Origin: Middle English: from Old French compaignon, literally ‘one who breaks bread with another’, based on Latin com- ‘together with’ + panis ‘bread’