15 Questions on English Vocabulary with Answer Explanations for Intermediate Students

Introduction to English Vocabulary Practice

Vocabulary building is a cornerstone of language proficiency, serving as a critical element in the journey of mastering English, especially for intermediate learners. The expansion of one’s lexicon not only enhances comprehension but also facilitates more effective communication. With a broader vocabulary, intermediate learners can grasp nuances in conversations and texts, allowing for a richer understanding of the language as a whole. Furthermore, a well-developed vocabulary empowers individuals to express themselves more precisely and confidently in both spoken and written forms.

In this blog post, we aim to provide a practical approach to vocabulary enhancement through a series of carefully curated questions and answer explanations. Each question is designed to challenge and expand your vocabulary, helping you to embed new words into your everyday usage. This method of learning is particularly effective as it places new terms in context, making them easier to remember and apply.

As you progress through the post, you will encounter fifteen engaging questions that target various aspects of vocabulary. Each question is followed by a detailed explanation of the correct answer, providing insight into the meaning, usage, and nuance of the words in question. This structured approach not only reinforces learning but also encourages the practical application of newly acquired vocabulary in different contexts.

By the end of this blog post, intermediate learners will have a more robust vocabulary, gained through interactive and meaningful practice. Whether for academic purposes, professional development, or personal enrichment, expanding your vocabulary will invariably improve your overall language proficiency. Embark on this journey with us to refine your linguistic skills and achieve greater fluency in English.

Vocabulary Questions with Contextual Usage

1. She had a very _______ attitude towards her work.

a) indifferent
b) enthusiastic
c) neutral
d) casual

2. The scientist was praised for his _______ discoveries.

a) innovative
b) obsolete
c) redundant
d) trivial

3. His behavior was completely _______ during the meeting.

a) disrespectful
b) appropriate
c) irrelevant
d) improper

4. The artist’s work is very _______ and appeals to many people.

a) conventional
b) controversial
c) pleasing
d) monotonous

5. The solution was _______ and solved the problem quickly.

a) complicated
b) ineffective
c) efficient
d) delayed

6. Her manner was so _______ that everyone felt comfortable around her.

a) abrasive
b) charming
c) confrontational
d) pessimistic

7. The manager showed _______ in handling the crisis.

a) incompetence
b) negligence
c) fortitude
d) panic

8. He has the _______ to solve complex mathematical problems.

a) incapacity
b) ability
c) aversion
d) reluctance

9. The _______ landscape was dotted with wildflowers.

a) barren
b) arid
c) lush
d) bleak

10. The student’s performance was _______ by the professor.

a) criticized
b) ignored
c) validated
d) trivialized

11. Her _______ was evident in her well-prepared presentation.

a) inadequacy
b) negligence
c) diligence
d) superficiality

12. The government imposed new regulations to _______ the economy.

a) hinder
b) facilitate
c) dismantle
d) obscure

13. The _______ amount of rainfall caused flooding in the area.

a) meager
b) abundant
c) insufficient
d) negligible

14. The athlete’s _______ was praised by everyone.

a) indolence
b) incompetence
c) perseverance
d) lethargy

15. The _______ novel captivated readers worldwide.

a) tedious
b) remarkable
c) dull
d) mundane

Answer Key with Detailed Explanations

Question 1: The answer is “abate”. To “abate” means to decrease in intensity. For example, “The storm will abate by morning.” The other options like “amplify” and “intensify” mean to increase, making them incorrect.

Question 2: The correct answer is “compel”. To “compel” someone means to force or oblige them to do something. For instance, “The teacher compels students to submit assignments on time.” The words “invite” and “allow” imply a voluntary action, thus they are not used in this context.

Question 3: “Meticulous” is the right choice. It describes someone who is very careful and precise. For example, “She is meticulous about her work.” The words “reckless” and “careless” suggest a lack of attention, hence they don’t fit.

Question 4: The answer is “benevolent”. “Benevolent” refers to someone who is kind and generous. For example, “The charity received a benevolent donation.” The alternatives “malevolent” and “malicious” depict negative intentions and are therefore incorrect.

Question 5: The correct answer is “diligent”. Being “diligent” means being hardworking and conscientious. An example sentence is, “The diligent student earned top grades.” The options “lazy” and “negligent” are antonyms.

Question 6: The answer is “enigma”. An “enigma” is something puzzling or mysterious. For example, “The disappearance remains an enigma.” Words like “solution” and “clarity” imply comprehensibility, making them incorrect.

Question 7: The correct choice is “exuberant”. “Exuberant” describes someone who is full of energy and enthusiasm. For instance, “The crowd was exuberant after the victory.” “Sullen” and “gloomy” are antonyms.

Question 8: The answer is “ambiguous”. “Ambiguous” means open to more than one interpretation. An example is, “The instructions were ambiguous.” Words like “clear” and “obvious” signify a singular, straightforward meaning.

Question 9: The correct answer is “invigorate”. To “invigorate” means to give energy or strength. An example is, “A good night’s sleep will invigorate you.” “Drain” and “exhaust” imply a reduction in energy, so they are incorrect.

Question 10: The answer is “candid”. “Candid” signifies straightforwardness and honesty. For example, “He gave a candid opinion.” Words like “evasive” and “reserved” imply a lack of honesty.

Question 11: The correct answer is “tedious”. “Tedious” describes something that is long and boring. For example, “Filing papers is a tedious task.” Options like “exciting” and “stimulating” suggest engagement and interest, which don’t fit here.

Question 12: The answer is “prudent”. Being “prudent” means acting with or showing care and thought for the future. For instance, “It is prudent to save money.” “Imprudent” and “reckless” imply a lack of foresight.

Question 13: The correct answer is “serene”. “Serene” indicates calm and peaceful. An example sentence is, “The lake was serene at dawn.” Words like “chaotic” and “agitated” describe disturbed states, making them the wrong choices.

Question 14: The answer is “apprehensive”. “Apprehensive” means anxious or fearful about the future. For example, “She felt apprehensive about the exam.” “Confident” and “assured” suggest a lack of anxiety, so they don’t fit.

Question 15: The correct choice is “ephemeral”. “Ephemeral” means lasting for a very short time. An example is, “Youth is ephemeral.” “Enduring” and “permanent” imply longevity, making them incorrect.

Tips for Expanding Vocabulary

Expanding your vocabulary as an intermediate English learner is integral to achieving fluency and enhancing your overall communication skills. Here are several strategies to help you effectively broaden your lexical repertoire.

Firstly, reading extensively is one of the most effective ways to encounter and learn new words. Delve into a range of materials, such as novels, newspapers, and academic journals. When exposed to varied contexts, you gain a better understanding of the nuances and usages of new vocabulary. Resources like “The New York Times” and classic literature can be particularly beneficial.

Incorporating technology into your learning routine is also highly recommended. Utilize vocabulary apps like Anki or Quizlet, which allow you to create customizable flashcards and spaced repetition schedules. These apps make it easier to retain new words and review them periodically.

Practicing with flashcards, whether digital or physical, is another excellent method for memorizing vocabulary. Flashcards can be used to focus on specific sets of words, such as synonyms, antonyms, or thematic vocabulary. The act of repeatedly seeing and using the words helps embed them in your long-term memory.

Engaging in regular conversation with native speakers offers invaluable practice. Participating in language exchange programs or conversation clubs can provide you with real-time feedback and the opportunity to use new vocabulary in context. Platforms like Tandem or Meetup can connect you with native speakers willing to practice with learners.

Setting realistic goals for your vocabulary acquisition is essential for sustained progress. Aim to learn a certain number of words each day or week, and ensure you initially focus on words that are most relevant to your needs and interests.

Finally, make use of diverse resources dedicated to vocabulary building. Websites like Vocabulary.com and podcasts specifically geared towards language improvement, such as “The English We Speak,” offer engaging ways to learn and practice new vocabulary. Reading books like “Word Power Made Easy” by Norman Lewis can also provide structured learning paths.

By integrating these methods into your daily routine, you will find your vocabulary steadily expanding, facilitating your journey towards higher proficiency in English.