<S> sabotage [to damage or destroy as an act against an organization or nation] The rebels sabotaged the railroad. sacrifice [to do without something or to suffer a loss for a belief, idea, goal or another person] She sacrificed her house to pay for medical school for her son. sad [not happy] He was sad because she left. safe [away from harm or danger] This is a safe place for you to stay. sail [to travel by boat or ship] We will sail to Hawaii on Thursday. sailor [a person involved in sailing a boat or ship] He is a sailor on one of the big oil ships. salt [a white substance found in seawater and in the ground, used to affect the taste of food] The doctor says eating too much salt can raise my blood pressure. same [(1) not different; (2) not changed; (3) like another or others] He eats at the same time every day. (1) She looks the same as she did ten years ago. (2) His car is the same as mine. (3) sand [extremely small pieces of crushed rock found in large amounts in deserts and on coasts] The hot sand of the desert burned her feet. satellite [(1) a small object in space that moves around a larger object; (2) an object placed in orbit around the earth] The Earth and other planets are satellites of the sun. (1) A new communications satellite was put in orbit today. (2) satisfy [to give or provide what is desired, needed or demanded] Does this food satisfy your hunger? save [(1) to make safe; (2) to remove from harm; (3) to keep for future use] He saved the building by disarming the bomb. (1) The fireman saved her when he pulled her from the burning house. (2) She saved a little money every week. (3) say [(1) to speak; (2) to express in words] What will you say to her? (1) I will say to her what is in my heart. (2) school [(1) a place for education; (2) a place where people go to learn] Is your son going to public or private school? (1) Her school is testing students to measure how much they have learned. (2) science [the study of nature and the actions of natural things, and the knowledge gained about them] Science has made great changes in our lives in just a few years. sea [a large area of salt water, usually part of an ocean] The rough sea seems angry. search [to look for carefully] We searched everywhere for her missing book. season [(1) one of the four periods of the year that is based on the earth's position toward the sun (spring, summer, autumn, winter); (2) a period of time based on different weather conditions; (3) a period during the year when something usually happens] He says autumn is his favorite season. (1) She likes to visit there during the dry season. (2) He cannot wait for baseball season to start. (3) seat [(1) a thing to sit on; (2) a place to sit or the right to sit there] The boy gave the woman his seat on the bus. (1) He has held his seat in parliament for 40 years. (2) second [the one that comes after the first] This is the second time I have been here. secret [(1) something known only to a few and kept from general knowledge; (2) hidden from others; (3) known only to a few] No member will talk about the secret ceremonies. (1) The nuclear scientist denied giving secret information to foreign spies. (2) Many secret stories of the Cold War are now becoming known. (3) security [(1) freedom from danger or harm; (2) protection; (3) measures necessary to protect a person or place] Security was increased in the city. (1) The store provided its own security. (2) Strong national security kept the country safe. (3) see [(1) to know or sense through the eyes; (2) to understand or know] Did you see her smile? (1) I see what you mean. (2) seed [the part of a plant from which new plants grow] If you plant the seeds now, you can eat vegetables in two months. seek(ing) [(1) to search for; (2) to try to get; (3) to plan to do] They are seeking a cure for cancer. (1) She is seeking election to public office. (2) Electric power companies are seeking to reduce their use of coal. (3) seem [to appear to be] She seems to be in good health. seize [(1) to take quickly by force; (2) to take control of quickly; (3) to arrest] Marines seized the island in three days. (1) The generals seized power after the president fled. (2) The policeman seized the suspect. (3) self [all that which makes one person different from others] He seems to think only of himself. sell [to give something in exchange for money] He will sell his car to me for 2,000 dollars. Senate [the smaller of the two groups in the governments of some countries, such as in the United States Congress] The Senate has 100 members, two from each state. send [(1) to cause to go; (2) to permit to go; (3) to cause to be carried, taken or directed to or away from a place] She sent the boy away. (1) To which university did he send his daughter? (2) The government will send supplies immediately to the earthquake area. (3) sense [(1) to come to know about by feeling, believing or understanding; (2) any of the abilities to see, hear, taste, smell or feel] He sensed that the dog would not attack him. (1) The medicine affected his sense of taste. (2) sentence [(1) to declare the punishment for a crime; (2) the punishment for a crime] The judge sentenced him to three years in prison. (1) She received a sentence of 18 months of community service. (2) separate [(1) to set or keep people, things or ideas away from or independent from others; (2) not together or connected] He separated the two boys and told them to stop fighting. (1) They work in separate offices. (2) series [a number of similar things or events that follow one after another in time, position or order] The doctor said the series of tests would show the cause of the pain. serious [(1) important; (2) needing careful consideration; (3) dangerous] The two sides have begun serious negotiations. (1) We have a serious problem to solve. (2) The accident victim is reported to be in serious condition. (3) serve [(1) to work as an official; (2) to be employed by the government; (3) to assist or help] He served as Secretary of State. (1) She has served as a government employee for 30 years. (2) She served us tea and made us feel welcome. (3) service [(1) an organization or system that provides something for the public; (2) a job that an organization or business can do for money; (3) military organizations such as an army, navy or air force; (4) a religious ceremony] Schools and roads are services paid for by taxes. (1) His business provides childcare services for working parents. (2) Two of her sons are in the military services. (3) Our church provides three services every Sunday morning. (4) set [(1) to put in place or position; (2) to establish a time, price or limit] She set food in front of us. (1) Have you set a time for our meeting? (2) settle [(1) to end (a dispute); (2) to agree about (a problem); (3) to make a home in a new place] The long dispute was finally settled. (1) We settled our legal problem without going to court. (2) Her family settled in Dallas many years ago. (3) several [three or more, but not many] I saw them in the office several days ago. severe [(1) not gentle; (2) causing much pain, sadness or damage] The prisoners received severe treatment from their guards. (1) The powerful storm caused severe damage to homes. (2) sex [(1) either the male or female group into which all people and animals are divided because of their actions in producing young; (2) the physical activity by which humans and animals can produce young] What is the sex of your children? (1) The doctor warned them about the dangers of unprotected sex. (2) shake [to move or cause to move in short, quick movements] Do not shake your finger at me. shape [(1) to give form to; (2) the form of something, especially how it looks] He shaped his own version of the truth from the facts that were known. (1) She made him a birthday cake in the shape of a fish. (2) share [(1) to give part of something to another or others; (2) a part belonging to, given to or owned by a single person or a group; (3) any one of the equal parts of ownership of a business or company] They shared the food that remained. (1) Each of the brothers had an equal share of the business. (2) The president owned 100,000 shares of the company's stock. (3) sharp [(1) having a thin edge or small point that can cut or hurt; (2) causing hurt or pain] The sharp knife cut through the vegetable and into his finger. (1) Her sharp, angry voice cut him like a knife. (2) she [the girl or woman who is being spoken about] She is a kind woman. sheep [a farm animal used for its meat and hair] They used the wool from their sheep to make all of their clothes. shell [(1) to fire artillery; (2) a metal container that is fired from a large gun and explodes when it reaches its target; (3) a hard outside cover] The big guns shelled the town for an hour. (1) The soldiers fired more than 200 artillery shells. (2) The turtle's shell protects it from its enemies. (3) shelter [(1) to protect or give protection to; (2) something that gives protection; (3) a place of safety] She sheltered her son from the evil she saw in the world. (1) Survival in nature requires food, water and shelter. (2) They found shelter under a tree until the rain ended. (3) shine [(1) to aim a light; (2) to give bright light; (3) to be bright; (4) to clean to make bright] He shined the light on them. (1) The sun shined brightly in the clear sky. (2) The faces of the children shined with happiness. (3) She shined the silver lamp until she could see her face in it. (4) ship [(1) to transport; (2) a large boat] He ships his products by truck. (1) The ship seemed to stop at every island in the Caribbean Sea. (2) shock [(1) to cause to feel sudden surprise or fear; (2) something that greatly affects the mind or emotions; (3) a powerful shake, as from an earthquake] She was shocked to find a man hiding in her house. (1) Her father's sudden death was a great shock to her. (2) Many minor shocks followed the earthquake. (3) shoe [a covering for the foot] I cannot find one of my shoes. shoot [(1) to cause a gun or other weapon to send out an object designed to kill; (2)to use a gun] The policewoman will shoot you if you move. (1) He shoots only at targets. (2) short [(1) lasting only for a small period of time; (2) not long; (3) opposite tall] He made a short speech. (1) The missing dog has short legs and a long body. (2) She is short, but her husband is tall. (3) should [(1) used with another verb (action word) to show responsibility, (2) probability, (3) or that something is believed to be a good idea] We should study. (1) The talks should begin soon. (2) Criminals should be punished. (3) shout [to speak very loudly] The protestors shouted at the President. show [(1) to make something be seen; (2) to make known; (3) a play or story presented in a theater, or broadcast on radio or television, for enjoyment or education; (4) something organized to be seen by the public] She showed an anger I did not know she possessed. (1) He showed that he could do it. (2) Did you hear the Morning Show today on VOA radio? (3) The music students played at a free show after school. (4) shrink [to make or become less in size, weight or value] Those wool clothes will shrink if you wash them in hot water. sick [(1) suffering physically or mentally with a disease or other problem; (2) not in good health] She is sick with a fever. (1) He always seems to be sick. (2) sickness [the condition of being in bad health] Doctors do not yet know what is causing her sickness. side [(1) the outer surfaces of an object that are not the top or bottom; (2) parts away from the middle; (3) either the right or left half of the body] The side of my car was damaged in the accident. (1) On which side of the football field does our school sit? (2) He usually sleeps on the left side of his body. (3) sign [(1) to write one's name; (2) a mark or shape used to mean something; (3) evidence that something exists or will happen; (4) a flat piece of material with writing that gives information] The writer signed a copy of his book for me. (1) A white mark on trees is a sign of the mountain trail. (2) Scientists have found no sign yet of life anywhere else in the Universe. (3) That sign tells us how many miles we must drive to get to Chicago. (4) *one mile = 1.6 kilometers signal [(1) to send a message by signs; (2) an action or movement that sends a message] That traffic light signals when we must stop or go. (1) Paul Revere will make a signal with his light to warn if the British are coming by land or sea. (2) silence [(1) to make quiet; (2) to stop from speaking or making noise; (3) a lack of noise or sound] Silence the television by pushing the mute button on your hand control. (1) The team leader silenced his men with a hand sign. (2) She heard only silence. (3) silver [a valued white metal] That little box is made of silver. similar [like something else but not exactly the same] The President said his proposal was similar to a proposal by Congress. simple [(1) easy to understand or do; (2) not difficult or complex] Special English is a simple form of spoken English. (1) This book tells us in a simple way how to use a computer to do complex work. (2) since [from a time in the past until now] I have known her since we went to school together. sing [to make music sounds with the voice] He sings in the shower. single [one only] He gave her a single flower, a red rose, to show his love. sink [to go down into water or other liquid] He sank deeper into the mud with each step. sister [a female with the same father or mother as another person] I have only one sister. sit [(1) to rest on the lower part of the body without the support of the legs; (2) to become seated] Please sit down and rest. (1) She sat down. (2) situation [the way things are during a period of time] The situation in the Middle East is very dangerous. size [(1) the space occupied by something; (2) how long, wide or high something is] Can you imagine the size of the Universe? (1) Geometry can help you measure the size of that big tree. (2) skeleton [all the bones of a human or other animal together in their normal positions] Scientists sometimes find the skeletons of people who lived thousands of years ago. skill [the ability gained from training or experience] He has great baseball skills. skin [the outer covering of humans and most animals] Her skin was burned red by the intense sunlight. sky [the space above the earth] The sky was filled with beautiful white clouds. slave [a person owned or controlled by another] All slaves in the United States were freed by an amendment to the Constitution in 1865. sleep [to rest the body and mind with the eyes closed] Do you sleep eight hours or more each night? slide [to move smoothly over a surface] A big area of snow slid down the mountain. slow [(1) to reduce the speed of; (2) not fast in moving, talking or other activities] Slow your speed to 45 miles per hour. (1) *one mile = 1.6 kilometers Is Special English slow enough for you? (2) small [(1) little in size or amount; (2) few in number; (3) not important; (4) opposite large] The small boy was hungry. (1) The small force landed by parachute. (2) It was a small problem and easy to solve. (3) His small house was next to a big building. (4) smash [(1) to break or be broken into small pieces by force; (2) to hit or move with force] He smashed the window with a rock. (1) The speeding car smashed into the wall. (2) smell [(1) to sense through the nose; (2) something sensed by the nose] She smelled something burning. (1) I love the smell of food cooking. (2) smoke [(1) to use cigarettes or other tobacco products by burning them and breathing in the smoke; (2) that which can be seen rising into the air like a cloud from something burning] He smoked cigarettes until he died. (1) The smoke from the burning forest rose high into the sky. (2) smooth [(1) having a level surface; (2) opposite rough] The smooth floor was perfect for dancing. (1) The floor was rough until the workman made it smooth. (2) snow [soft, white pieces of frozen water that fall from the sky, usually in winter or when the air temperature is very cold] The snow fell for two days. so [(1) in such a way that; (2) also; (3) too; (4) very; (5) as a result; (6) in order that; (7) for the purpose of] He held the flag so all could see it. (1) She was tired and so was I. (2) She left early, and so did we. (3) I am so sick. (4) They were sick, so they could not come. (5) We plant seeds so plants will grow. (6) Come early so we can discuss the plans. (7) social [of or about people or a group] The president offered a new solution for some social problems. soft [(1)not hard; (2) easily shaped; (3) pleasing to touch; (4) not loud] She likes a soft bed but her husband likes a hard bed. (1) Her daughter likes to shape things from soft clay. (2) I like to hold her soft hands. (3) The room was filled with soft music. (4) soil [earth in which plants grow] She put the seeds in the soil and the plants began to grow. soldier [a person in the army] A soldier is trained to be ready for any situation. solid [(1) having a hard shape with no empty spaces inside; (2) strong; (3) not in the form of a liquid or gas] The tools were solid metal and very heavy. (1) The house is solid, so it will survive the storm. (2) Ice is the solid form of water. (3) solve [(1) to find an answer; (2) to settle] The boy solved the mathematics problem. (1) The committee hopes its proposals will solve the current economic problem. (2) some [(1) of an amount or number or part not stated; (2) not all] Would you like some coffee? (1) Would you like some of my coffee? (2) son [a person's male child] Tommy is my youngest son. soon [(1) not long after the present time; (2) quickly] She will soon be 18 years old. (1) Tell him to get here as soon as possible. (2) sort [(1) any group of people or things that are the same or are similar in some way; (2) a kind of something] They are the same sort of people as I. (1) He is the sort of person you want as a friend. (2) sound [(1) fast-moving waves of energy that affect the ear and result in hearing; (2) that which is heard] Sound travels through the air at a speed of 1,088 feet per second. (1) *one feet = 30.48 centimeters She says the sound of the ocean helps her sleep. (2) south [the direction to the right of a person facing the rising sun] He lives 15 miles south of Washington. * one mile = 1.6 kilometers space [(1) the area outside the earth's atmosphere where the sun, moon, planets and stars are; (2) the area between or inside things] Humans began making flights into space in the early 1960's. (1) Their new house has more space than their old one. (2) speak [(1) to talk; (2) to say words with the mouth; (3) to express one's thoughts to others and exchange ideas; (4) to give a speech to a group] She would not speak to him. (1) He spoke to everyone. (2) He spoke about his proposal to everyone he met. (3) The Senator speaks to a group tomorrow about trade relations with East Asia. (4) special [(1) of a different or unusual kind; (2) not for general use; (3) better or more important than others of the same kind] Special English is a special kind of English that is easy to understand. (1) This is a special machine that can be used only by a trained worker. (2) She received a special award for a lifetime of service to others. (3) speech [a talk given to a group of people] The President will make a television speech tonight about civil rights. speed [(1) to make something go or move faster; (2) the rate at which something moves or travels; (3) the rate at which something happens or is done] The chairman is speeding up debate on the bill. (1) Do you know the speed of light? (2) Special English news is read at a speed of 90 words per minute. (3) spend [to give as payment; to use] He spent 45 dollars for food. (1) He spends much time studying. (2) spill [to cause or permit liquid to flow out, usually by accident] The big ship spilled hundreds of thousands of barrels of oil into the ocean. *one barrel(米)= 42 gallons (159 liters) spirit [(1) the part of a human that is not physical and is connected to thoughts and emotions; (2) the part of a person that is believed to remain alive after death] His spirit continued to fight the disease even after his body surrendered. (1) Many believe a person's spirit does not die but returns to the world in a new body. (2) split [(1) to separate into two or more parts; (2) to divide or break into parts] When you split wood for a fire, you are warmed two times: once by the work and later by the fire. (1) Cells split into two parts; the new part becomes a new cell that is exactly like the old one. (2) sport [any game or activity of competition involving physical effort or skill] His daughter plays four sports. spread [(1) to become longer or wider; (2) to make or become widely known] The old tree has spread its roots and branches over a wide area. (1) Please spread the news that we are having a party next Saturday. (2) spring [the time of the year between winter and summer] I hope spring starts early this year. spy [(1) to steal or get information secretly; (2) one who watches others secretly; (3) a person employed by a government to get secret information about another country] She spied to get information for another company. (1) A spy for the man's wife watched him for several weeks. (2) Three people employed at the C.I.A. were accused of being spies for a foreign country. (3) square [a flat shape having four equal sides] Measure this square and tell me how much material is needed to cover it. stab [to cut or push into or through with a pointed weapon] The person stabbed her then ran away. stand [(1) to move into or be in a position in which only the feet are on a surface; (2) to be in one position or place] She told the students to stand for the opening ceremony. (1) Two hours ago, she was standing where the city bus stops. (2) star [(1) a mass of gas that usually appears as a small light in the sky at night, but is not a planet; (2) a famous person, usually an actor or singer] Those stars form the shape of Orion the Hunter. (1) Some Hollywood stars were at the White House last night. (2) start [(1) to begin; (2) to make something begin] He will start the new job tomorrow. (1) Will you start the car and turn on the heater? (2) starve [to suffer or die from a lack of food] Thousands may have starved to death because of crop failures in Sudan. state [(1) to say; (2) to declare; (3) a political part of a nation] The Ambassador stated his concern about the problem. (1) A White House spokesman stated that no changes had been made in policies affecting trade with Asia. (2) He plans to travel through several western states. (3) station [(1) a place of special work or purpose; (2) a place where passengers get on or off trains or buses; (3) a place for radio or television broadcasts] Rebels attacked a police station outside the city. (1) He plans to meet her when she arrives at the bus station. (2) She works at the television station. (3) statue [a form of a human, animal or other creature usually made of stone, wood or metal] The Statue of Liberty in New York harbor was a gift from France. stay [(1) to continue to be where one is; (2) to remain; (3) to not leave; (4) to live for a time] I will stay here until you return. (1) He stayed at home yesterday. (2) She said I should stay until she calls. (3) They stayed in New York for two years. (4) steal [to take without permission or paying] Be careful. She will steal your heart. steam [the gas that comes from hot water] The kitchen is full of steam when his mother cooks. steel [iron made harder and stronger by mixing it with other substances] Much of the steel used now in the United States is imported. step [(1) to move by lifting one foot and placing it in a new position; (2) the act of stepping; (3)one of a series of actions designed to reach a goal] He stepped through the door. (1) We moved slowly up the mountain, one step at a time. (2) The final step is to put the new boat in the water. (3) stick [(1) to attach something to another thing using a substance that will hold them together; (2) to become fixed in one position so that movement is difficult; (3) a thin piece of wood] We will put glue on the wallpaper, then stick the paper to the wall. (1) Something is making the door stick. (2) We need some small sticks to start a campfire. (3) still [(1) not moving; (2) until the present or a stated time; (3) even so; (4) although] The man was standing still. (1) Was he still there? (2) She slept for nine hours, but she was still tired. (3) The job was difficult, but she still wanted to do it. (4) stone [a small piece of rock] The boys threw stones at the soldiers. stop [(1) to prevent any more movement or action; (2) to come or bring to an end] She stopped the car. (1) Stop that noise. (2) store [(1) to keep or put away for future use; (2) a place where people buy things] She stores food for emergencies. (1) His father owns an automobile parts store. (2) storm [violent weather, including strong winds and rain or snow] The storm caused severe damage across southern Florida. story [the telling or writing of an event, either real or imagined] No one believed the story of her life, so she changed it. stove [a heating device used for cooking] The stove is broken so I cannot cook dinner. straight [continuing in one direction without turns] The road is straight, all the way across the desert. strange [(1) unusual; (2) not normal; (3) not known] I saw some strange lights in the sky last night. (1) Our backyard is a strange place to see a deer. (2) Some of our customs seem strange to her. (3) street [a road in a city, town or village] Which street are you looking for? stretch [(1) to extend for a distance; (1) to pull on to make longer or wider] They stretched the rope across the river. (1) His shoulders stretched the coat. (2) strike [(1) to hit with force; (2) to stop work as a way to seek better conditions, more pay or to make other demands] He struck the baseball with the bat. (1) The workers are on strike for more money. (2) strong [(1) having much power; (2) not easily broken, damaged or destroyed] The strong wind blew down some trees. (1) Even some of the strong trees were damaged. (2) structure [(1) the way something is built, made or organized; (2) a system that is formed or organized in a special way; (3) a building] This picture shows the structure of a plant cell. (1) He will propose some changes in the structure of the organization. (2) The new structure will have offices on 14 floors. (3) struggle [(1) to try with much effort; (2) to fight with; (3) a great effort; (4) a fight] He struggled to keep his company open. (1) The two boys struggled for no reason. (2) It is a great struggle just to get up in the morning. (3) Who were the boys in that struggle outside the school? (4) study [(1) to make an effort to gain knowledge by using the mind; (2) to examine carefully] He studied for many years to become a doctor. (1) She studied the problem carefully before making her proposal. (2) stupid [(1) not able to learn much; (2) not intelligent] You are not stupid, you have a learning problem. (1) There are no stupid people, only stupid mistakes. (2) subject [the person or thing being discussed, studied or written about] Everyone knows the subject of this meeting, so let us get started. submarine [an underwater ship] The submarine is in trouble at the bottom of the ocean. substance [the material of which something is made (a solid, liquid or gas)] The new substance is a liquid that quickly changes to a solid when mixed with another chemical. substitute [(1) to put or use in place of another; (2) a person or thing put or used in place of another] You can substitute this medicine for the one you have been using. (1) Jim is a substitute for Tom in today's game. (2) subversion [an attempt to weaken or destroy a political system or government, usually secretly] The three men are accused of subversion. succeed [(1) to reach a goal or thing desired; (2) to produce a planned result] He succeeded in marrying her. (1) The team succeeded in winning every game that year. (2) such [(1) of this or that kind; (2) of the same kind as; (3) similar to] She was surprised that they were interested in visiting such places. (1) Such people are never happy with their situation. (2) He had coins, keys, gum and such in his pockets. (3) sudden [(1) not expected; (2) without warning; (3) done or carried out quickly or without preparation] All of us got wet during that sudden rainstorm. (1) Police made a sudden arrest in the case. (2) He made a sudden decision to retire immediately. (3) suffer [(1) to feel pain in the body or mind; (2) to receive or experience hurt or sadness] She suffered much before her death from cancer. (1) He suffered from depression when he did not use his medicine. (2) sugar [a sweet substance made from liquids taken from plants] I would like sugar in my tea, please. suggest [to offer or propose something to think about or consider] She suggested doing the job a different way. summer [the warmest time of the year, between spring and autumn] Most public schools are closed during the summer. sun [the huge star in the sky that provides heat and light to earth] Without the sun, life would not exist on Earth. supervise [to direct and observe the work of others] She supervises a health services office. supply [(1) to give; (2) to provide; (3) the amount of something that can be given or sold to others] The organization supplies food and clothing to poor people. (1) The store supplies workers with low cost uniforms and other work clothing. (2) The store has large supplies of uniforms in all sizes. (3) support [(1) to carry the weight of; (2) to hold up or in position; (3) to agree with others and help them reach a goal; (4) to approve] The walls support the weight of the house. (1) My helper supports the part while I connect it. (2) Her job is to support the other workers by agreeing with their decisions. (3) He supports them by approving their efforts to complete the work. (4) suppose [(1) to believe, think or imagine; (2) to expect] I suppose you are right. (1) It is supposed to rain tonight. (2) suppress [(1) to put down or to keep down by force; (2) to prevent information from being known publicly] The government suppressed any attempt to end its control. (1) The government suppressed all reports of demonstrations. (2) sure [(1) very probable; (2) with good reason to believe; (3) true without question] He believed he had a sure method of escape. (1) Everything she wrote was based on sure facts. (2) The government had sure proof that he did the crime. (3) surface [the outer side or top of something] The rocket landed on the surface of the moon. surplus [(1) an amount that is more than is needed; (2) extra] The United States had a big budget surplus. (1) That country has a trade surplus. It exports more than it imports. (2) surprise [(1) to cause a feeling of wonder because something is not expected; (2) something not expected; (3) the feeling caused by something not expected] Her friends surprised her with a party. (1) The party was a big surprise. (2) Her real surprise made everyone else as happy as she. (3) surrender [(1) to give control of oneself or one's property to another or others; (2) to stop fighting and admit defeat] The robbers surrendered to police. (1) Germany surrendered to the allied powers to end the war in Europe. (2) surround [(1) to form a circle around; (2) to be in positions all around someone or something] The house was surrounded by big trees. (1) Soldiers surrounded the enemy headquarters. (2) survive [to remain alive during or after a dangerous situation] No one survived when the plane crashed into the mountain. suspect [(1) to imagine or believe that a person is guilty of something bad or illegal; (2) a person believed to be guilty] Police suspected her from the beginning. (1) They questioned all the usual suspects. (2) suspend [to cause to stop for a period of time] The committee meeting was suspended because not enough voting members were there. swallow [to take into the stomach through the mouth] He swallowed the medicine. swear in [to put an official into office by having him or her promise to carry out the duties of that office] The chief justice will swear in the president. sweet [tasting pleasant, like sugar] This fruit is very sweet. swim [to move through water by making motions with the arms and legs] Can you swim across the river? sympathy [a sharing of feelings or emotions with another person, usually feelings of sadness] You have our sympathy for your loss. system [(1) a method of organizing or doing something by following rules or a plan; (2) a group of connected things or parts working together for a common purpose or goal] The office established a filing system so that we can find documents easily and quickly. (1) Our system of justice sometimes makes mistakes and punishes an innocent person. (2) <T> take [(1) to put a hand or hands around something and hold it, often to move it to another place; (2) to carry something; (3) to seize; (4) to capture; (5) to begin to be in control] Take this glass. (1) They will take this with them. (2) Did the policemen take the evidence? (3) The Marines took the enemy position. (4) The President takes office tomorrow. (5) talk [(1) to express thoughts in spoken words; (2) a meeting for discussion] He will talk to us. (1) The professor will give the talk. (2) tall [(1) higher than others; (2) opposite short] New York has many very tall buildings. (1) Tom is tall but his wife is short. (2) tank [(1) a large container for holding liquids; (2) a heavy military vehicle with guns] That oil tank is leaking. (1) The tank moved into position and began shelling the town. (2) target [any person or object aimed at or fired at] We fired at paper targets 300 meters from us. taste [to sense through the mouth] The fruit tastes sweet. tax [the money a person or business must pay to the government so the government can provide services] Federal taxes are due April 15th, unless you pay them earlier. tea [a drink made from the plant of the same name] May I get you a cup of tea? teach [(1) to show how to do something; (2) to provide knowledge; (3) to cause to understand] Will you teach me how to drive a car? (1) She wants to teach high school students. (2) He taught me to understand poems. (3) team [a group organized for some purpose, often for sports] She plays on the softball and soccer teams. tear [to pull apart, often by force] Did your dog tear the newspaper? tears [the fluid that comes out of the eyes while crying] Her eyes flooded with tears. technical [(1) involving machines, processes and materials in industry, transportation and communications; (2) of or about a very special kind of subject or thing] He has made many technical improvements in our factory. (1) You need technical knowledge to understand how this system works. (2) technology [the use of scientific knowledge and methods to produce goods and services] She works at a company that designs communications technology. telephone [a device or system for sending sounds, especially the voice, over distances] Do you have a wireless telephone? telescope [a device for making objects that are far away appear closer and larger] Space telescopes can see objects near the edge of our galaxy. television [(1) a device that receives electronic signals and makes them into pictures and sounds; (2) the system of sending pictures and sounds by electronic signals over a distance so others can see and hear them on a receiver] He has a television in every room. (1) Television has affected almost every part of our lives. (2) tell [(1) to give information; (2) to make known by speaking; (3) to command] He will tell everyone how to get to the party. (1) She will tell us about her trip to China. (2) Do what I tell you. (3) temperature [the measurement of heat and cold] What is the temperature outside? temporary [lasting only a short time] He has a temporary job. tense [(1) having fear or concern; (2) dangerous; (3) opposite calm] My pregnant sister is tense about the pain of childbirth. (1) The bomb threat created a tense situation. (2) The calm situation suddenly became a tense situation. (3) term [(1) a limited period of time during which someone does a job or carries out a responsibility; (2) the conditions of an agreement that have been accepted by those involved in it] He served two terms in Congress. (1) The terms of the peace agreement were guaranteed by the United States and Russia. (2) terrible [(1)very bad; (2) causing terror or fear] She had a terrible day at the office. (1) The hostages were in a terrible situation. (2) territory [a large area of land] The area is dangerous territory in summer because of extremely hot weather and lack of water. terror [(1) extreme fear; (2) that which causes great fear] She lived with the terror that the attack could happen again. (1) He froze with terror when he saw the angry bear running toward him. (2) terrorist [a person who carries out acts of extreme violence as a protest or a way to influence a government] The terrorist admitted that he made the bomb. test [(1) to attempt to learn or prove what something is like or how it will act by studying or doing; (2) an attempt to learn or prove what something is like or how it will act by studying or doing; (3) a group of questions or problems used to find out a person's knowledge] The scientists will test the new engine soon. (1) The test of the new engine takes place today. (2) The students did well on the language test. (3) than [(1) connecting word used to link things that may be similar, but are not equal] My sister is taller than I am. thank [to say that one has a good feeling toward another because that person did something kind] I want to thank you for helping me. that [(1) showing the person, place or thing being spoken about; (2) the person, place or thing being spoken about] That man is a soldier. (1) The building that I saw was very large. (2) the [used in front of a name word to show that it is a person or thing that is known about or is being spoken about] The man watched the animal run into the woods. theater [a place where movies are shown or plays are performed] We saw a wonderful play last night at the theater. them [other people being spoken about] Did you talk to them about the dog? then [(1) at that time; (2) and so] We were young then. (1) If I am late then she gets angry. (2) theory [a possible explanation of why something exists or how something happens using experiments or ideas, but which is not yet proven] Other scientists are debating his theory about the disappearance of dinosaurs. there [(1) in that place or position; (2) to or toward that place] What did you find over there? (1) I am going there to get something to eat. (2) these [of or about the people, places or things nearby that have been spoken about already] These are my children. they [those ones being spoken about] They work with us on several projects. thick [(1) having a large distance between two opposite surfaces; (2) having many parts close together; (3) almost solid, such as a liquid that does not flow easily; (4) opposite thin] The wall is two meters thick. (1) The forest is very thick. (2) He put thick oil in the motor of his old car. (3) This house paint is thick, not thin like the other paint. (4) thin [(1) having a small distance between two opposite surfaces; (2) not fat; (3) not wide; (4) opposite thick] The walls in this house are very thin. (1) He was fat as a boy but is thin as a man. (2) The young trees are thin but will grow wide. (3) The electric wires were thin, not thick. (4) thing [any object] Do you know what that thing is? think [(1) to produce thoughts; (2) to form ideas in the mind; (3) to consider; (4) to believe] What is it in humans that makes them think? (1) Sometimes he thinks about the purpose of his life. (2) I will think about your request. (3) I think you are right. (4) third [coming after two others] You are the third person to tell me about that. this [of or about the person, place or thing nearby that has been spoken about already] This note will answer your question. threaten [to warn that one will do harm or cause damage] The bank threatened to seize his house. through [(1) in at one end and out at the other; (2) from front to back; (3) from top to bottom; (4) with the help of; (5) by] Oil is shipped through a pipe from Texas to Virginia. (1) The dog ran through the house. (2) The submarine sank through the water. (3) They got help through their church. (4) They came through the back way. (5) throw [to cause to go through the air by a movement of the arm] Very few baseball players can throw a ball 100 miles an hour. * one mile = 1.6 kilometers tie [(1) to join or hold together with some material; (2) anything that joins or unites; (3) links or connections] He tied his dog to the tree. (1) They are connected by business ties. (2) The two nations have strong trade ties. (3) time [(1) that which is measured in minutes, hours, days and years; (2) a period that can be identified in hours and minutes and is shown on a clock; (3) a period when an event should or will take place] We have been friends for a long time. (1) What time is it? (2) The time for starting the meeting is two o'clock. (3) tired [(1) having less strength because of work or exercise; (2) needing sleep or rest] Talking all day makes him tired. (1) I am so tired I could sleep all day. (2) to [(1) showing the direction of an action; (2) showing the person or place toward which an action is directed; (3) showing a goal or purpose] At the first stoplight, turn to the right. (1) She is flying to Seattle. (2) Come to my house to study tonight. (3) today [this day] I am glad that school ends today. together [(1) in one group; (2) at the same time or place; (3) in cooperation] Her wedding will bring us all together next month. (1) They will be together at school tomorrow. (2) We agreed to work together. (3) tomorrow [the day after today] You will feel better tomorrow, after a night's rest. tonight [this night] Are you going to see her tonight? too [(1) also; (2) as well; (3) more than is necessary] I like him too. (1) She will be at the party too. (2) He works too much. (3) tool [any instrument or device designed to help one do work] May I borrow a tool from you to fix my keyboard. top [(1) the upper edge or surface; (2) the highest part; (3) the cover of something] The food is in the pan on the top of the stove. (1) She climbed to the top of the mountain. (2) Please put the top on the box of tea. (3) torture [(1) to cause severe pain; (2) the act of causing severe pain in order to harm, to punish or to get information from] The guards tortured the prisoners by beating them. (1) Torture was used to get information about the rebels. (2) total [the complete amount] The measure proposes a tax-reduction total of 1.6 trillion dollars over ten years. touch [to put the hand or fingers on] Please do not touch the wet paint. toward [(1) in the direction of; (2) leading to] He walked toward the river. (1) They took the first steps toward a peace agreement. (2) town [a center where people live, larger than a village but not as large as a city] Many towns are smaller now because young people move to the cities. trade [(1) to buy and sell or exchange products or services; (2) the activity of buying, selling or exchanging products or services] He trades shares of stock on the New York Stock Exchange. (1) The United States wants to sell more American products in its trade with China. (2) tradition [a ceremony, activity or belief that has existed for a long time] A big Thanksgiving Day dinner is a tradition in our family. traffic [the movement of people, vehicles or ships along a street, road or waterway] Traffic was very slow during the evening rush hour. tragic [(1) extremely sad; (2) terrible] The boy's struggle against disease was a tragic story. (1) A tragic car crash killed five people. (2) train [(1) to teach or learn how to do something; (2) to prepare for an activity; (3) an engine and the cars connected to it that move along a railroad] A doctor will train the group in emergency medical treatment. (1) The soldiers trained for days to prepare for the attack. (2) She rides a train to work every day. (3) transport [to move goods or people from one place to another] Trucks will transport the goods. transportation [the act or business of moving goods or people] Effective transportation depends on reasonable fuel costs. trap [(1) to catch or be caught by being tricked; (2) to be unable to move or escape; (3) a device used to catch animals] Police trapped robbers by opening stores that offered to buy stolen goods. (1) He was trapped in the burning building. (2) Few people use traps now to catch animals for their fur or skins. (3) travel [to go from one place to another, usually for a long distance] He travels to California several times a year. treason [the act of fighting against one's own country or of helping its enemies] Only a few persons have been tried for treason in the past 50 years. treasure [a large collection of money, jewels or other things of great value] Searchers still find treasure in ships that sank as they carried gold to Europe. treat [(1) to deal with; (2) to act toward in a special way; (3) to try to cure] The new book treats the subject of political wrong-doing in the 1990's. (1) His political enemies treated him unfairly. (2) Doctors are treating the disease with a new medicine. (3) treatment [(1) the act of treating; (2) the use of medicine to try to cure or make better] A new report offers a different treatment on the costs of reducing air pollution. (1) Doctors are developing some new treatments for the AIDS disease. (2) treaty [a written agreement between two or more nations] The United States may seek changes in the Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. tree [a very tall plant that is mostly wood, except for its leaves] Some new rules are expected to reduce the number of trees cut in the National Forests. trial [an examination in a court of a question or dispute to decide if a charge is true] Evidence against the terrorists will be presented at a trial in New York. tribe [a group of families ruled by a common chief or leader] Another Native American tribe is seeking the return of lands taken by the government in the 1800's. trick [(1) to cheat; (2) to fool a person so as to get something or make him or her do something] He used false documents to trick the tax office into reducing his taxes. (1) She tricked him into giving her private information about his credit card. (2) trip [a movement from one place to another, usually a long distance] We will go on a trip to Europe next month. troops [a number of soldiers in a large controlled group] American and European troops are keeping peace in Yugoslavia. trouble [that which causes concern, fear, difficulty or problems] He always has trouble starting his car. truce [a temporary halt in fighting agreed to by all sides involved] Fighting ended when the two sides agreed to a truce. truck [a heavy vehicle used to carry goods] The men loaded everything that I own into the truck. true [(1)correct; (2) not false] The news report was true. (1) The woman made a true statement to the court. (2) trust [to believe that someone is honest and will not cause harm] Many important people trusted him. try [(1) to make an effort; (2) to take court action against a person to decide if he or she is guilty or innocent of a crime] We will try to find her. (1) The court will try him next week. (2) tube [(1) a long, round structure through which liquids or gases can flow; (2) a long, thin container in which they can be kept] The patient breathed through a tube placed in his throat. (1) The tube of toothpaste is empty. (2) turn [(1) to change direction; (2) to move into a different position; (3) to change color, form or shape] Turn to the left at the next street. (1) Turn the meat so it will cook on both sides. (2) Her beautiful black hair turned white as years passed. (3) <U> under [(1) below; (2) below the surface of; (3) less than; (4) as called for by a law, agreement or system] The river flows under the bridge. (1) The submarine went under. (2) The book was under 20 dollars. (3) Such action is not permitted under the law. (4) understand [(1) to know what is meant; (2)to have knowledge of] I understand what you mean. (1) He understands chemistry. (2) unite [to join together] The new president will try to unite all parties in support of his program. universe [all of space, including planets and stars] Do you know why the universe is expanding? university [a place of education that usually includes several colleges and research organizations] Her sons are students at different universities. unless [(1) except if it happens; (2) on condition that] I will not go, unless the rain stops. (1) I will come to your house unless it rains. (2) until [(1) up to a time; (2) before] She said she would wait for me until three o'clock. (1) We cannot start until everyone arrives. (2) up [to, in or at a higher position or value] We will walk up the stairs. urge [(1) to advise strongly; (2) to make a great effort to get someone to do something] He urged the governor to think carefully before signing such a bill. (1) The speaker urged the crowd to take control of the university. (2) urgent [needing an immediate decision or action] She said urgent action is necessary. us [(1) the form of the word "we" used after a preposition; (2) or used as an object of a verb] He said he would write to us. (1) They saw us yesterday. (2) use [(1) to employ for a purpose; (2) to put into action] We use electricity to light our house. (1) He used a piece of glass to cut the ropes that tied our hands. (2) usual [(1) as is normal or common; (2) as is most often done, seen or heard] They watched all the usual television shows. (1) We left for work at our usual time. (2) <V> valley [a long area of land between higher areas of land] The people in the valley worry about snow sliding down the mountain. value [(1) the quality of being useful, important or desired; (2) the amount of money that could be received if something is sold] His greatest value is honesty. (1) The value of their house rose 50 percent in two years. (2) vegetable [a plant grown for food] She is healthy because she eats lots of vegetables and exercises every day. vehicle [(1) anything on or in which a person or thing can travel or be transported, especially anything on wheels; (2) a car or truck] This area is closed to all vehicles. (1) We pay a tax based on the value of each vehicle we own. (2) version [the form of something with different details than earlier or later forms] Are you using the latest version of that computer program? very [extremely] He was very late. veto [to reject or refuse to approve] The President promised to veto the bill if Congress passes it. vicious [(1) bad; (2) dangerous; (3) showing harm or hate] They had a vicious argument about money. (1) That vicious dog has bitten several people. (2) He made some vicious statements about the President. (3) victim [(1) someone or something that is injured, killed or made to suffer; (2) someone who is tricked] The victim never saw the vicious person who struck her. (1) The victim trusted the woman who took her money. (2) victory [a success in a fight or competition] The little school won its first basketball victory in two years. village [a very small town] Many villages are dying as people move to towns and cities. violate [(1) to fail to obey or honor; (2) to break (an agreement)] He violated laws against making illegal drugs. (1) He violated the loan agreement by making payments late. (2) violence [the use of force to cause injury, death or damage] She said parents are concerned about violence in the schools. visit [to go to or come to a place for a short time for friendly or business reasons] The President will visit Japan next month. voice [the sound made by creatures, especially humans, for speaking] She has a nice voice for speaking. volcano [a hill or mountain around a hole in the earth's surface that can explode, sending hot, melted rock and ash into the air] Many volcanoes are active and could explode suddenly. vote [(1) to choose a candidate in an election; (2) a choice or decision expressed by the voice, by hand or by writing] Americans vote in national elections every two years. (1) Officials hope to reduce mistakes in votes by replacing old voting systems with new and better ones. (2) <W> wages [money received for work done] Jack receives his wages every Friday. wait [(1) to delay acting; (2) to postpone] Wait for me. (1) We will wait until next Tuesday to discuss the problem. (2) walk [to move by putting one foot in front of the other] She walks two miles every day. *one mile = 1.6 kilometers wall [(1) the side of a room or building formed by wood, stone or other material; (2) a structure sometimes used to separate areas of land] He has many pictures on his wall. (1) China built the Great Wall to protect against enemy invasions. (2) want [(1) to desire; (2) to wish for; (3) to need] He wants to see her more often. (1) She wants to win a lot of money in the lottery. (2) They want to eat now. (3) war [fighting between nations, or groups in a nation, using weapons] The world's last major war, World War II, ended in 1945. warm [(1) almost hot; (2) having or feeling some heat] My coffee is warm instead of hot. (1) She likes to sit outside in the warm sunlight. (2) warn [(1) to tell of possible danger; (2) to advise or inform about something bad that may happen] A weather radio warns of dangerous storms. (1) The President warned that the country may be entering an economic recession. (2) wash [to make clean, usually with water] Tommy says that he will wash the car today. waste [(1) to spend or use without need or care; (2) to make bad use of; (3) a spending of money, time or effort with no value gained or returned; (4) something thrown away as having no value; (5) the liquid and solid substances that result from body processes and are passed out of the body] Do not waste your money by buying video games. (1) He wasted his life by using drugs and alcohol. (2) Watching television is a waste of time. (3) Chemical wastes pollute our water supplies. (4) How do astronauts deal with the problem of wastes from their bodies? (5) watch [(1) to look at; (2) to observe closely; (3) to look and wait for] Did you watch the football game on television? (1) Watch every move he makes. (2) I will watch for her train to arrive. (3) water [the liquid that falls from the sky as rain or is found in lakes, rivers and oceans] May I have some water, please? wave [(1) to move or cause to move one way and the other, as a flag in the wind; (2) to signal by moving the hand one way and the other; (3) a large mass of water that forms and moves on the surface of a lake or ocean] The flag is waving in the wind. (1) She waved at me. (2) The waves are especially large today. (3) way [(1) a path on land or sea or in the air; (2) how something is done; (3) method] This trail is the way to our camp. (1) She says I should drive the way that she does. (2) Show me the way to hit the ball. (3) we [two or more people, including the speaker or writer] He and I will go together, and we will return together. weak [(1) having little power; (2) easily broken, damaged or destroyed; (3) opposite strong]He was weak from hunger. (1) We are worried about crossing the weak bridge. (2) You need a strong rope, not a weak one, to tie the boat to the tree. (3) wealth [a large amount of possessions, money or other things of value] His wealth comes from his rich grandfather. weapon [anything used to cause injury or to kill during an attack, fight or war] Police could not find the weapon used in the murder. wear [to have on the body, as clothes]What will you wear to the party? weather [the condition of the atmosphere resulting from sun, wind, rain, heat or cold] We will have more cold weather tomorrow. week [a period of time equal to seven days] She will be gone for two weeks. weigh [to measure how heavy someone or something is] The ticket agent will weigh your bag at the airport. welcome [to express happiness or pleasure when someone arrives or something develops] We welcomed the sun after a week of rain. well [(1) in a way that is good or pleasing; (2) in good health; (3) a hole in the ground where water, gas or oil can be found] She is doing well at school. (1) He was sick, but he is well now. (2) We may see more oil wells in Alaska soon. (3) west [the direction in which the sun goes down] They live in a town 50 miles west of Chicago. * one mile = 1.6 kilometers wet [(1) covered with water or other liquid; (2) not dry] It rained just enough to make the streets wet. (1) My clothing got wet in the rain. (2) what [(1) used to ask about something or to ask for information about ; (2) which or which kind] What is this? (1) He wants to know what you would like to drink. (2) wheat [(1) a grain used to make bread; (2) the plant that produces the grain] We like bread made from whole wheat. (1) The farmer grows wheat in most of his fields. (2) wheel [a round structure that turns around a center] The wheel on his bicycle came off. when [(1) at what time; (2) at any time; (3) during or at the time] When does the train leave? (1) When will she come home? (2) I studied hard when I was in school. (3) where [(1) at, to or in what place; (2) place in which] Where is his house? (1) The house where he lives is in the old part of the city. (2) which [used to ask about what one or what ones of a group of things or people] Which program do you like best? (1) Which students will take the test? (2) while [(1) a space of time; (2) at or during the same time] Please come to my house for a while. (1) It may not be a good idea to eat while you are driving. (2) white [having the color like that of milk or snow] She calls her cat Snowball because it is white. who [(1) what or which person or persons that; (2) the person or persons] Who wants to go? (1) They are the ones who want to go. (2) whole [(1) the complete amount; (2) all together; (3) not divided; (4) not cut into pieces] He paid the whole cost of the dinner. (1) The whole group is invited. (2) The whole country celebrates Independence Day. (3) The boy ate the whole cake. (4) why [(1) for what cause or reason; (2) the reason for which] Why did she do it? (1) I do not know why she did it. (2) wide [(1) having a great distance from one side to the other; (2) not limited] The flood covered a wide area along the river. (1) The new store offered a wide choice of products. (2) wife [a woman who is married] His wife works at home. wild [(1) living and growing in natural conditions and not organized or supervised by humans; (2) angry; (3) uncontrolled] Many kinds of wild animals live in America's National Forests. (1) The man was wild with anger. (2) Police broke up the wild party. (3) will [a word used with action words to show future action] They will hold talks tomorrow. willing [being ready or having a desire to] They are willing to talk about the problem. win [(1) to gain a victory; (2) to defeat another or others in a competition, election or battle] Our school won first prize in the foreign language competition. (1) The candidate with the most campaign money usually wins the election. (2) wind [a strong movement of air] In some areas, wind is used to produce electricity. window [an opening in a wall to let in light and air, usually filled with glass] The glass is broken in many of the windows of the old house. winter [the coldest time of year, between autumn and spring] Winter lasts for a long time in the mountains. wire [a long, thin piece of metal used to hang objects or to carry electricity or electronic communications from one place to another] Most electric wires in our town are buried in the ground. wise [(1) having much knowledge and understanding; (2) able to use knowledge and understanding to make good or correct decisions] She is a wise woman. (1) The President is a wise leader. (2) wish [(1) to want; (2) to express a desire for] I wish to have Japanese food tonight. (1) She wishes that her friend will call her. (2) with [(1) along or by the side of; (2) together; (3) using; (4) having] She walked with her friend. (1) She is here with me. (2) He fixed it with a tool. (3) They live in the house with the red door. (4) withdraw [(1) to take or move out, away or back; (2) to remove] He said he will withdraw from the presidential race. (1) The company says it will withdraw the disputed product from stores. (2) without [(1) with no; (2) not having or using; (3) free from; (4) not doing] He grew up without a father. (1) We were without electricity for four hours. (2) They said goodbye without tears. (3) He spoke without thinking. (4) woman [an adult female human] The woman with him was his mother. wonder [(1) to ask oneself; (2) to question; (3) a feeling of surprise] I wonder why she did that. (1) She wonders if it is true. (2) The child's eyes were wide with wonder at the fireworks. (3) wonderful [(1) causing wonder; (2) especially good] Astronauts on the moon took some wonderful pictures of the Earth. (1) It is a wonderful day. (2) wood [the solid material of which trees are made]His stove burns wood. word [one or more connected sounds that form a single part of a langua
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