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Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
degree titulo noun [count] /dɪˈɡri/ the qualification that you get after completing your studies at college
She is going to college to study for a degree in history.
do volunteer work
hacer trabajo voluntario
verb phrase /du ˌvɑlənˈtɪr wɜrk/
to work without expecting to be paid for what you do
She does volunteer work at an orphanage every summer.
earn ganar verb /ɜrn/ to receive money for work that you do
Is it important to you to earn a lot of money?
extreme sport deporte extremo noun [count] /ɪkˈstrim spɔrt/ a sport or activity that is exciting and dangerous, for example, bungee jumping, white-water rafting, or snowboarding
I love extreme sports. The more dangerous, the better!
fluency fluidez noun [noncount]
/ˈfluənsi/ the ability to speak a language well
It takes time to develop fluency in another language.
fluent hablar con fluidez adjective /ˈfluənt/ able to speak a language very well
He is fluent enough in Italian to speak with the local people.
frustrating frustrante adjective /ˈfrʌˌstreɪtɪnɡ/ making you feel annoyed and impatient because you are prevented from achieving something
Conscious incompetence can be a very frustrating stage for language learners because they realize how much they don’t know!
get married casarse verb /ɡetˈmerid/ to formally join in marriage to someone
I want to get married before I start a family.
give up rendirse phrasal verb /ˈɡɪv ʌp/ to stop trying to do something because it is too difficult
I find studying Japanese really difficult, but I’m not going to give up because I want to work in a Japanese bank.
go backpacking viajar con mochila al hombro
verb phrase /ɡoʊ ˈbækˌpækɪŋ/ to travel around an area without spending much money, often on foot and carrying a backpack
I’m going backpacking around South America next summer.
grade calificación noun [count] /ɡreɪd/ a letter or number that shows the quality of a student’s work
He studied hard to get good grades in college.
green ecologista adjective /ɡrin/ connected to the environment or its protection
Do you want to have a greener or healthier lifestyle?
have children tener hijos verb phrase /hæv ˈtʃɪldrən/ to be, or to become, a parent
My sister can’t have children so she is going to adopt a child.
however sin embargo conjunction /haʊˈevər/ used when you are saying something that seems surprising after your previous statement, or that makes your previous statement seem less true
Sometimes this stage feels like too much work. However, if you work hard, you will succeed.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
improvement mejora noun [count] /ɪmˈpruvmənt/ the state of being better than before, or the process of making something better than it was before
Check for improvement in your work to show you are making progress.
incompetence incompetencia noun [noncount]
/ɪnˈkɑmpət(ə)ns/ lack of skill or ability to do something correctly or well
Conscious incompetence in language learning means that you know how much you haven’t learned yet.
job offer oferta de trabajo noun [count] /dʒɑb ɑfər/ the offer of a job I have had four interviews but not one job offer yet. I am getting a little depressed.
list lista noun [count] /lɪst/ a set of names, ideas, etc. that are written or printed one below another
Decide what you want to learn from the class and write your ideas in a list.
long largo adjective /lɔŋ having a lot of pages or items
I have a long list of things to buy at the supermarket. Do you need anything?
main principal adjective /meɪn/ the main idea is the most important idea
The main thing to remember is to have fun!
maintain mantener verb /meɪnˈteɪn/ to make something stay the same
Do you want to maintain a serious love relationship?
make a decision
tomar una decisión verb phrase /ˈmeɪk ə dɪˈsɪʒ(ə)n/ to decide something after thinking carefully
You have to make a decision about college soon. Do you want to go or not?
make a donation
hacer una donación verb phrase /meɪk ə doʊˈneɪʃ(ə)n/
give money or goods to an organization such as a charity
Can you make a donation to this charity? It needs to raise a lot of money.
make friends hacer amigos verb phrase /ˈmeɪk frendz/ to become friends I made friends with some girls in my Spanish class last year and we are meeting up this weekend.
measure medir verb /ˈmeʒər/ to form an opinion about how good or bad something is
You measure your progress in languages by taking exams at the end of the year.
mechanics mecánica noun [noncount]
/məˈkænɪks/ the study of how engines and other machines work
If you learned about mechanics, you could fix my car!
mistake error noun [count] /mɪˈsteɪk/ something that you have not done correctly, or something you say or think that is not correct
I made a big mistake when I chose to study French. I find it really difficult.
model modelo noun [count] /ˈmɑd(ə)l/ a simple technical description of how something works or happens
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
ability habilidad noun [count] /əˈbɪləti/ the fact of being able to do something
When humans developed higher cognitive abilities such as language, their sense of smell was less important.
academic académico adjective /ˌækəˈdemɪk/ good at learning things by studying
I was academic at school; I worked hard and I got good grades.
amygdala amígdala noun [count] /əˈmɪgdələ/ the part of the brain that processes emotions and memories
In the human brain, the amygdala is located near the olfactory cortex. This is why smell and emotion are closely linked.
animal animal noun [count] /ˈænɪm(ə)l/ any living thing that is not a human, a plant, an insect, a bird, or a fish
A human’s sense of smell is weaker than that of many other animals.
associate (something with something/someone)
asociar (algo con algo/alguien)
verb phrase /əˈsoʊʃiˌeɪt/ to form a connection in your mind between different people or things
I always associate the smell of chocolate with my grandmother’s house.
attitude actitud noun [count] /ˈætɪˌtud/ someone’s opinions or feelings about something, especially shown by their behavior
It’s important to have a positive attitude when you start a new job.
authority autoridad noun [count] /ɔˈθɔrəti/ people with power over you, usually in an official way
When I was a teenager I always questioned authority, for example, my teachers and my parents.
baby bebé noun [count] /ˈbeɪbi/ a very young child who cannot talk or walk yet
The sense of smell develops in babies before the sense of vision.
be located estar localizado, estar ubicado
verb phrase /bi loʊˈkeɪtɪd/ existing in a particular place
In the human brain, the brainstem is located in front of the cerebellum.
beagle beagle noun /ˈbiɡ(ə)l/ a type of dog with short hair and long ears
My first dog was a beagle named Bonzo.
bloodhound sabueso noun [count] /ˈblʌdˌhaʊnd/ a large dog that can smell very well, has long, hanging ears, and is often used for finding out where someone is or has been
A bloodhound has 220 million smell receptors and so it has an excellent sense of smell.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
bored aburrido adjective /bɔrd/ feeling impatient or dissatisfied because you are not interested in something, or because you have nothing to do
I’m bored at work because every day is the same!
certain cierto determiner /ˈsɜrt(ə)n/ used for referring to someone or something without being specific about exactly what or who they are
Certain smells make me think of when we lived in Greece.
child niño noun [count] /tʃaɪld/ a young person from the time they are born until they are about 14 years old
Did you have any pets when you were a child?
childhood niñez noun [noncount]
/ˈtʃaɪldˌhʊd/ the time of your life when you are a child
She had a happy childhood with her parents and two brothers.
chocolate-chip cookie
galleta con chispas de chocolate
noun [count] /ˈtʃɑklət tʃɪp ˈkʊki/
a type of cookie that contains small pieces of chocolate
The smell of chocolate-chip cookies reminds me of my mom, because she used to do a lot of baking.
clearly claramente adverb /ˈklɪrli/ in a way that is sensible and not confused
I can clearly remember the day I got my first puppy.
cognitive cognitivo adjective /ˈkɑɡnətɪv/ in psychology, a cognitive science or process is one that is connected with recognizing and understanding things
Humans developed higher cognitive abilities, such as language.
cologne colonia noun [noncount]
/kəˈloʊn/ a liquid with a pleasant smell that you put on your skin, usually less expensive than perfume
When I smell that cologne, I think of my father because he always wore it.
compare comparar verb /kəmˈper/ used for saying how good or bad one thing is in relation to another
How do your test results compare with other students in your class?
country país noun [count] /ˈkʌntri/ an area of land that has its own government and official borders
France is the country I was born in.
cue pista noun [count] /kju/ an event, action, or statement that tells someone indirectly that they should do something
Researchers have done experiments to compare smell stimuli with other stimuli as memory cues.
danger peligro noun [count] /ˈdeɪndʒər/ a situation in which harm, death, damage, or destruction is possible
Animals use their sense of smell to recognize danger, and it can be the difference between life and death.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
memory recuerdo noun [count] /ˈmem(ə)ri/ something that you remember
The memory of that night is still clear in my mind.
memory loss pérdida de memoria
noun [noncount]
/ˈmem(ə)ri lɔs/ when you cannot remember things
Researchers have found that when people with memory loss smell something associated with their youth, they are often able to describe a memory in great detail.
million millón number /ˈmɪljən/ the number 1,000,000 People download millions of songs every day.
multiplication tables
tablas de multiplicar
noun [noncount]
/ˌmʌltɪplɪˈkeɪʃ(ə)n teɪb(ə)lz/
lists that show the results of multiplying all the combinations of two numbers between 1 and 12 together
We had to memorize our multiplication tables at school and say them aloud in math class.
nose nariz noun [count] /noʊz/ the part of your face above your mouth that you use for smelling and breathing
Look at the model’s face: she has green eyes, a small mouth, and a perfect nose.
the part of the brain where our sense of smell is located
In the human brain, the amygdala is located near the olfactory cortex. This is why smell and emotion are closely linked.
party animal parrandero noun phrase /ˈpɑrti ænɪm(ə)l/ someone who enjoys going to lots of parties
Maria is a real party animal; she’s always out with her friends at parties.
perfume perfume noun [noncount]
/ˈpɜrfjum/ a liquid with a pleasant smell that you put on your skin
This perfume smells great. Do you want to try it?
personality personalidad noun [count] /ˌpɜrsəˈnæləti/ the part of a person that makes them behave in a particular way in social situations, for example, in a friendly or unfriendly way, or in a confident or shy way.
You use the word character when you are talking about whether someone is good or bad, or honest or dishonest. What’s her personality like? Is she friendly or is she shy?
physiology fisiología noun [noncount]
/ˌfɪziˈɑlədʒi/ the way that the body of a particular living thing operates
The reason we react to smells comes down to our human physiology.
poem poema noun /ˈpoʊəm/ a piece of writing using beautiful or unusual language arranged in fixed lines that have a particular beat and often rhyme
We had to memorize poems at school and say them aloud in our English class.
popcorn palomitas noun [count] /ˈpɑpˌkɔrn/ a food made from dried grains of maize that swell when they are heated
They always buy popcorn to share when they go to the movies.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
popular popular adjective /ˈpɑpjələr/ a popular person is liked by many people
Hayley was very popular at school. Everyone liked her!
puppy cachorro noun [count] /ˈpʌpi/ a very young dog My dog is big now, but when he was a puppy he could sit in the palm of my hand.
question preguntar verb /ˈkwestʃ(ə)n/ to express doubts about something or challenge it
When he was a teenager, he used to question authority all the time. He was always arguing with his parents.
rebel rebelde noun [count] /ˈreb(ə)l/ someone who opposes people in authority or opposes accepted ways of doing things
James has always been a rebel, but he’s not a criminal!
recent reciente adjective /ˈrisənt/ has happened or started a short time ago
My hearing has become worse in recent years; it used to be fine.
recognize reconocer verb /ˈrekəɡˌnaɪz/ to know who the person is or what the thing is that you are seeing, hearing, etc. because you have seen, heard, etc. them before
Animals use their sense of smell to recognize danger; it can be the difference between life and death.
remind recordar verb /rɪˈmaɪnd/ to make someone think of someone or something else because of being very similar to them
She reminds me of my sister. They look very similar.
research investigación noun [noncount]
/rɪˈsɜrtʃ/ the detailed study of something in order to discover new facts, especially in a college or scientific institution
Recent research shows that music has a positive effect on patient health.
response respuesta noun [count] /rɪˈspɑns/ a reaction Humans have strong emotional responses to smells.
scan leer rápidamente verb /skæn/ to read something very quickly, in order to get a general idea of its meaning or to find particular information
Scan the article quickly to find out the main points.
sense of smell sentido del olfato noun [noncount]
/sens əv smel/ the natural ability that most people have to smell
A human’s sense of smell is weaker than that of many other animals.
short corto, breve adjective /ʃɔrt/ a period of time that is short, does not last very long, or seems to pass quickly
I gave a short presentation about the new product. It only lasted for a few minutes.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
sight vista noun [count] /saɪt/ a person or thing that you see that has a particular feature
Certain sights or sounds bring back memories.
sight vista noun [noncount]
/saɪt/ the ability to see, using your eyes
He lost 75 percent of his sight in his right eye.
smell olor noun [count] /smel/ the pleasant or unpleasant quality of something that you notice when you breathe in through your nose
It’s strange how certain smells can bring back vivid memories.
smell oler verb /smel/ to notice or recognize the smell of something
When I smell the ocean, I always think of the summers I used to spend there.
smell receptor receptor olfativo noun [count] /smel rɪˈseptər/ a nerve in your nose that sends messages to your central nervous system
Humans have 20 million smell receptors, compared to a bloodhound with 220 million!
song canción noun [count] /sɔŋ/ a piece of music with words that you sing
When I hear this song, it brings back memories of being in college.
sound sonido noun [count] /saʊnd/ something that you can hear
The room was very quiet; I couldn’t hear a sound.
species especie noun [count] /ˈspiʃiz/ a plant or animal group whose members all have similar general features and are able to produce young plants or animals together
An animal’s sense of smell enables it to recognize other animals of the same species.
stimuli estímulos noun [count] /ˈstɪmjəli/ things that produce a reaction in a plant, animal, or person
Researchers have done experiments to see the effect of smell stimuli on our memory.
strong fuerte adjective /strɔŋ/ able to produce a powerful effect
Smell memories are so strong they can transport us immediately to the past.
suddenly de repente adverb /ˈsʌd(ə)nli/ quickly and without any warning
A strange feeling suddenly came over him.
suffer from sufrir de verb /ˈsʌfər frəm/ to have a particular illness or physical problem
She suffered from depression for most of her adult life.
survival sobrevivencia noun [noncount]
/sərˈvaɪv(ə)l/ the fact or state of continuing to live or exist, especially in difficult conditions
When humans developed higher cognitive abilities such as language, their sense of smell was less important.
sweet dulce adjective /swit/ pleasant in smell, sound, or appearance
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
taste gusto noun [count] /teɪst/ the flavor that something creates in your mouth when you eat or drink it
The taste of chocolate reminds me of being a child.
technology tecnología noun [count] /tekˈnɑlədʒi/ advanced scientific knowledge used for practical purposes, especially in industry
How has technology changed children’s lives?
tend (to) tender a verb /tend/ to usually do a particular thing
The gym tends to get very busy at about six o’clock.
think back (to) recordar phrasal verb /θɪŋk bæk/ to think about something that happened in the past
I’ve been trying to think back to the last time I saw her.
tone of voice tono de voz noun [noncount]
/toʊn əv vɔɪs/ the sound of someone’s voice that shows what they are feeling
“Really?” Simone said in a surprised tone of voice.
touch tacto noun [noncount]
/tʌtʃ/ the sense that tells you what something feels like through your skin, or when you put your fingers on it
You have to identify the foods through touch and smell; you can’t see or taste them!
transport transportar verb /trænsˈpɔrt/ to make you imagine or feel as if you are in a different place or time
Certain smells can transport us immediately to the past.
troublemaker alborotador noun [count] /ˈtrʌb(ə)lˌmeɪkər/ someone who causes problems, often by being violent or by making others argue or not obey people in authority
Fred was a troublemaker at school, but now he’s a police officer!
uncertain inseguro, vacilante adjective /ʌnˈsɜrt(ə)n/ not feeling sure about what to do, whether something is true, etc.
I left the meeting feeling anxious and uncertain about what to do next.
vaguely vagamente adverb /ˈveɪɡli/ in a way that is not clear
I vaguely remember meeting Kate, but I’m not sure where or when.
visual visual adjective /ˈvɪʒuəl/ relating to things that you can see
Television news brings us visual images from around the world.
vivid vívido adjective /ˈvɪvɪd/ having or producing very clear and detailed images in the mind
I have a vivid memory of the first time we met. I remember it clearly.
whole completo adjective /hoʊl/ all of something Practice saying the whole presentation so you know it from start to finish.
youth juventud noun [noncount]
/juθ/ the time in someone’s life when they are young
In his youth, he had traveled and seen much of the world.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
accessories accesorios noun [noncount]
/əkˈsesəriz/ a small thing such as a piece of jewelry, or a pair of shoes, that you wear with clothes to give them more style
I spend a lot of money on accessories like jewelry and bags.
advertise anunciar verb /ˈædvərˌtaɪz/ to announce a product, service, or event on TV, on the internet, in newspapers, etc. so that people will buy it, use it, or go to it
The perfume is advertised in all the major women’s magazines.
advertisement anuncio noun [count] /ædˈvɜrtɪsmənt/ a short movie on TV, or a short article on the radio that is intended to persuade people to buy something
There are lots of advertisements for toys on TV close to Christmas.
at least por lo menos phrase /ət list/ not less than a particular amount or number, and possibly more
This coat is at least 20 years old, probably more! I bought it when I was in college.
beauty salon salón de belleza noun [count] /ˈbjuti səˈlɑn/ a store where you can get beauty treatments for your skin, hair, or nails
I had my nails done in a beauty salon, and they look and feel great!
birthday cumpleaños noun [count] /ˈbɜrθˌdeɪ/ the day each year that has the same date as the one on which you were born
It’s my birthday on June 2nd. I’ll be 23 this year.
blow despilfarrar verb /bloʊ/ to spend a lot of money quickly on things that you do not need
He blew his inheritance on cars and vacations, and now he has nothing.
book reservar verb /bʊk/ to buy tickets, or to arrange to have or use something at a particular time in the future
You have to book the tickets for the concert months in advance.
bow tie corbata de moño noun [count] /ˌbaʊ ˈtaɪ/ a narrow piece of cloth that a man puts around his collar and ties into a bow, usually for special occasions
I didn’t know I had to wear a bow tie tonight. I only have a normal tie.
bride novia noun [count] /braɪd/ a woman who is getting married or who has recently gotten married
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
cufflink mancuernilla noun [count] /ˈkʌflɪŋk/ an object used instead of a button for fastening the cuff of a man’s dress shirt
You need to wear cufflinks with that shirt; it doesn’t have buttons on the cuffs.
cummerbund faja (de smoking) noun [count] /ˈkʌmərˌbʌnd/ a wide band of brightly colored cloth that a man wears around his waist as part of a very formal suit
That cummerbund makes you look very stylish, and it hides your belt.
department store
tienda departamental
noun [count] /dɪˈpɑrtmənt stɔr/ a large store divided into separate sections, each section selling a different type of item
Why don’t you shop at the department store? You can get everything you need there.
design diseñar verb /dɪˈzaɪn/ to decide how something will be made, including how it will work and what it will look like, and often to make drawings of it
She has a job designing websites.
designer de diseñador adjective /dɪˈzaɪnər/ designer clothes are made by a famous designer and are usually expensive and fashionable
She spends a fortune on designer clothes and handbags.
disco disco, discoteca noun [count] /ˈdɪskoʊ/ a place or event where people dance to popular music
I’m not going to the disco; the music is too loud and I hate dancing.
discount descuento noun [count] /ˈdɪsˌkaʊnt/ a reduction in the price of something
There’s a 25% discount off all jeans in the department store today. That means you save about $10 per pair!
ditch zanja verb /dɪtʃ/ to get rid of someone or something because you no longer like or need them
The boys are ditching sneakers and T-shirts for stylish clothes.
draw sorteo noun [count] /drɔ/ a way of choosing something such as a name or number by chance
Every new customer is entered into a monthly draw to win a vacation.
electronic electrónico adjective /ɪˌlekˈtrɑnɪk/ using electricity and extremely small electrical parts such as microchips and transistors
Please turn off all electronic devices before the plane takes off.
exchange intercambiar verb /ɪksˈtʃeɪndʒ/ to give someone something in return for something that they give you
The tokens can be exchanged for goods in any of our stores.
eyebrow threading
depilación con hilo noun [noncount]
/ˈaɪˌbraʊ θredɪŋ/ a beauty treatment using thread to make your eyebrows look neater
Eyebrow threading is an old technique used to remove hair from your eyebrows.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
face mask mascarilla noun [count] /feɪs mæsk/ a substance that you put on your face and leave on for a short while to clean your skin
In the salon, they put a face mask on your face made of mud!
facial hair vello facial noun [noncount]
/ˈfeɪʃ(ə)l her/ hair on your face around your chin and upper lip, especially on men
He shaves every morning because he doesn’t like having facial hair.
fashion moda noun [noncount]
/ˈfæʃ(ə)n/ the activity or business that involves styles of clothes and people’s appearance
She’s not really into fashion. She wears the same clothes that she’s had for years.
fashion icon icono de la moda noun [count] /ˈfæʃ(ə)n ˈaɪˌkɑn/ a fashion icon is a famous person who is considered to be very fashionable and who people like to copy
David Beckham became a fashion icon for men around the world.
fever fiebre noun [noncount]
/ˈfivər/ strong excitement and enthusiasm that affects a lot of people
The whole country was in the grip of election fever.
fit quedar bien verb /fɪt/ if clothes fit, they are the right size for you
It is important that children’s shoes fit correctly.
formal formal adjective /ˈfɔrm(ə)l/ a formal event or social occasion is an important or official one where people wear special clothes
The dinner is a formal occasion, so you have to wear a suit.
frock vestido noun [count] /frɑk/ a dress; mostly British English
It’s a formal party, so you should wear a designer frock!
get ready alistarse verb phrase /ˈɡet redi/ to prepare yourself, or someone else, to do something
You need to get ready. We’re leaving in an hour!
gift regalo noun [count] /ɡɪft/ something that you give to someone as a present
This website sells great gifts for children. Should we buy something for Jack?
glam glamoroso adjective /ɡlæm/ short for glamorous She bought some glam earrings to match her silk dress.
graduate graduado noun [count] /ˈɡrædʒuət/ someone who has just left school and is looking for a job
The influence of fashion icons is influencing male high-school graduates.
groomed buen aspecto adjective /ɡrumd/ neat and clean in your appearance
Boys are preferring a groomed look to a scruffy look this season.
guy chico noun [count] /ɡaɪ/ a man She’s going out with a guy she met in France.
gym gimnasio noun [count] /dʒɪm/ a large room in a school building where all the students come together
We had the dance in the gym because it was the largest room in the school.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
handkerchief pañuelo noun [count] /ˈhæŋkərtʃɪf/ a small, square piece of cloth or paper used for wiping your nose or eyes
Please use a handkerchief when you sneeze!
head-to-toe de la cabeza a los pies
adjective /hed tə toʊ/ over the whole of your body
We just had head-to-toe treatments at the beauty salon, and feel fantastic!
highly sumamente adverb /ˈhaɪli/ used before some adjectives to mean very or very well
He’s a highly successful author.
hole agujero, hoyo noun [count] /hoʊl/ a space in the surface of something that goes partly or completely through it
All my socks have holes in them, so I am going to buy some new pairs.
image-conscious
preocupado por la imagen
adjective /ˈɪmɪdʒ kɑnʃəs/ someone who is image-conscious gives a lot of attention to the way they look
Sophie has become so image-conscious. She’s really obsessed about how she looks and what people think of her.
increase aumento noun [count] /ˈɪnˌkris/ a rise in the number, amount, or degree of something
There’s been an increase in our sales, which is great!
influence influencia noun [count/noncount]
/ˈɪnfluəns/ the effect that a person or thing has on someone’s decisions, opinions, or behavior, or on the way something happens
Our increase in sales is due to the influence of fashion icons like Victoria Beckham.
inspiration inspiración noun [noncount]
/ˌɪnspɪˈreɪʃ(ə)n/ someone or something that gives you new ideas, and the enthusiasm to create something with them
If you are not sure what to wear to parties, look at fashion magazines for inspiration.
interest rate tasa de interés noun [count] /ˈɪntrəst reɪt/ the percentage that an institution such as a bank charges or pays you in interest when you borrow money from it or keep money in an account
Interest rates are very low because of the global recession.
invest invertir verb /ɪnˈvest/ to use your money with the goal of making a profit from it, for example, by buying stock in a company
We’ve invested a lot of money in foreign markets.
jewelry joyería noun [noncount]
/ˈdʒuəlri/ objects that you wear as decoration. Types of jewelry include rings, which you wear on your finger; bracelets, which you wear on your wrist; and necklaces, which you wear around your neck.
I don’t have much jewelry. I only wear earrings and a wedding ring.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
online en línea adjective /ˈɑnˌlaɪn/ connected to, or available through, a computer or a computer network (=a group of connected computers), especially the internet
I do my banking online on my laptop.
open abrir verb /ˈoʊpən/ to separate the edges of something or to take off its cover so that you can see or remove what is inside
When I opened my bag, I realized that I didn’t have my wallet.
outfit atuendo noun [count] /ˈaʊtˌfɪt/ a set of clothes that are worn together
I have a new outfit for the party: a pink dress, a matching sweater, and some sandals.
paint pintura noun [noncount]
/peɪnt/ a colored liquid that you put on a surface to change its color or that you use for making a picture
I used the white paint on the ceiling, and the blue paint on the walls.
paint pintar verb /peɪnt/ to put paint onto something to change its color
I painted my bedroom wall yellow last weekend. It’s very bright!
perfect perfecto adjective /ˈpɜrfɪkt/ as good, correct, or accurate as it is possible to be
These shoes are perfect. They are exactly what I wanted.
persuade convencer verb /pərˈsweɪd/ to make someone agree to do something by giving them reasons why they should
He did finally come with us, although it took a long time to persuade him.
polished refinado, elegante adjective /ˈpɑlɪʃt/ of very high quality The boys want to achieve a polished, groomed look.
posh elegante adjective /pɑʃ/ something that is posh looks expensive and attractive
We are having the party in a posh bar downtown, so we are wearing stylish outfits.
precision precisión noun [noncount]
/prɪˈsɪʒ(ə)n/ the quality of being very accurate and exact
We have planned the wedding with precision, so it should be a success!
product producto noun [count] /ˈprɑdəkt/ something that is made, grown, or obtained in large quantities so that it can be sold
Using the internet, companies can advertise their products all over the world, not just in their own country.
prom baile (de la escuela) noun [count] /prɑm/ a dance for high school students, usually held at the end of the year
We danced all night at the prom and came home in a limo!
refund reembolsar noun [count] /ˈriˌfʌnd/ money that you get back because you paid too much for something, or because you decided that you do not want it
You will receive a full refund if you cancel the hotel reservation.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
repair reparar verb /rɪˈper/ to fix something that is broken or damaged
It cost $20 to repair my shoes. I should have just bought a new pair instead!
replace reemplazar verb /rɪˈpleɪs/ to get rid of someone or something and to put a new person or thing in their place
They replaced the dryer because it wasn’t working properly. The new one works well.
rival no tener nada que envidiarle a
verb /ˈraɪv(ə)l/ to be as good as someone or something else
This small restaurant rivals any that you will find in the city.
rocket dispararse verb /ˈrɑkɪt/ if something such as a price or quantity rockets, it suddenly increases a lot
The sales of that shirt will rocket now that David Beckham has been photographed in it.
sales venta noun [count] /seɪlz/ the total number of things that a company sells within a particular period of time, or the money that it earns by selling things
Sales of smartphones have risen since the new year.
satisfactory satisfactorio adjective /ˌsætɪsˈfækt(ə)ri/ good enough to be accepted in a particular situation
I still haven’t received a satisfactory answer to my question.
shop around ver tiendas y comparar precios
phrasal verb /ʃɑp əˈraʊnd/ to go to several stores before you decide what particular thing to buy
I’m shopping around for a new coat.
slick con estilo adjective /slɪk/ done in a very impressive way that seems to need very little effort
His new hairstyle is slick and stylish.
smarten up mejorar su aspecto phrasal verb /ˈsmɑrt(ə)n ʌp/ if you smarten up or smarten yourself up, you make yourself look neat and clean. Mostly British English.
Since he got his new job in the bank, he’s really smartened up his look.
sneakers tenis noun /ˈsnikərz/ strong, comfortable shoes which are designed for doing sports in, but which many people wear as informal clothing
You won’t be allowed into the club in sneakers. You have to wear nicer shoes.
snowball aumentar verb /ˈsnoʊˌbɔl/ to develop quickly and become very big or serious
The interest in the product snowballed after a celebrity was seen with it. We couldn’t keep up with demand.
soar elevarse, aumentar verb /sɔr/ to quickly increase to a high level
Interest in the new software has soared because it is so affordable.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
spokesman portavoz noun [count] /ˈspoʊksmən/ a man whose job is to officially represent an organization, for example, in dealing with journalists. A female is a spokeswoman, and gender-neutral is spokesperson.
A spokesman from the company gave an official statement.
spray tan bronceador en espray
noun [noncount]
/spreɪ tæn/ a procedure that makes your skin look like you have a suntan, using a colored liquid
In the winter, I usually get a spray tan.
stretch limo limusina noun [count] /stretʃ ˈlɪmoʊ/ a very long car with a large and comfortable space inside for several passengers
Ten of us went to the prom in a stretch limo; we felt like movie stars!
study estudio noun [count] /ˈstʌdi/ a research project that examines a problem or a particular subject
According to a recent study, men are spending more money on beauty products than ever before.
suit traje noun [count] /sut/ a set of clothes made from the same cloth, usually a jacket with pants or a skirt
I have a new suit. The jacket fits, but the pants are a little long.
swag (yourself) out (with)
equiparse con verb phrase /swæɡ aʊt/ to get all the clothes and equipment that are necessary for an activity
Kids nowadays tend to swag themselves out with designer clothes and expensive shoes.
tablet tablet noun [count] /ˈtæblət/ a small computer which you use by touching the screen, rather than using a keyboard
I love my new tablet because I can work on the train much more easily.
take (something) back
devolver verb phrase /teɪk bæk/ to take something that you bought back to the store because it is broken or not suitable
If you take the shirt back to the store, they will give you a refund.
teenage adolescente adjective /ˈtinˌeɪdʒ/ between the ages of 13 and 19
Teenage girls like to talk about fashion, music, make-up, and boys!
themed temático adjective /θimd/ used for describing a place with furniture, decorations, pictures, etc. that are related to a particular subject, activity, or event in history
He wants to have a themed party, but he can’t decide between “the 1970s” or “famous movie stars!”
too demasiado adverb /tu/ more than is necessary or acceptable
These shoes are too small. They hurt my feet.
treatment tratamiento noun [count] /ˈtritmənt/ a procedure at a beauty salon for your health, beauty, or wellbeing
She had some treatments at a beauty salon yesterday and she looks and feels great today!
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
turn on encender phrasal verb /tɜrn ɑn/ to make a piece of equipment start working by pressing a button or moving a switch
Please turn on the light; it’s too dark to see anything.
tuxedo esmoquin noun [count] /tʌkˈsidoʊ/ a man’s black or white jacket worn on formal occasions
He looked very stylish in his tuxedo and bow tie!
whereas mientras que conjunction /werˈæz/ used for comparing two things, people, situations, etc. and showing that there is an important difference between them
Girls buy prom outfits weeks in advance, whereas guys rush in last minute to buy theirs.
work funcionar verb /wɜrk/ to operate in a satisfactory way
My headphones don’t work. I can’t hear anything.
would-be aspirante a adjective /wʊd bi/ hoping or trying to do, or be, something
She’s a would-be singer, but I don’t think her voice is good enough.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
already ya adverb /ɔlˈredi/ used for saying that something has happened before now, or before another point in time
He’s only 16, but he’s already started his own business.
ancient antiguo adjective /ˈeɪnʃənt/ relating to people who lived thousands of years ago and to their way of life
The ancient Egyptians lived thousands of years ago.
assembly line línea de montaje noun [count] /əˈsembli laɪn/ a system for making products in a factory. Each worker or machine does a single job as the product moves past them.
She works on an assembly line at the factory.
babysitting cuidar niños noun [noncount]
/ˈbeɪbiˌsɪtɪŋ/ to take care of children in their home while their parents are not there, especially in the evening
I’m going to earn some money during my vacation by babysitting some children in my neighborhood.
basic básico adjective /ˈbeɪsɪk/ not very advanced, or not very complicated
I can do basic home repairs, but nothing that involves electricity or plumbing!
be tempted to estar tentado a verb phrase /bi ˈtemptəd tə/ to make you want to do or to have something, especially something that is not good for you
Don’t be tempted to buy too much, just because you have the money.
bicycle bicicleta noun [count] /ˈbaɪsɪk(ə)l/ a vehicle with two wheels that you ride by pushing pedals with your feet. A bicycle is often called a bike. Someone riding a bicycle is a cyclist.
I bought a bicycle so I could cycle to work.
building materials
materiales de construcción
noun [noncount]
/ˈbɪldɪŋ məˈtɪriəlz/ a substance, used especially for building, such as bricks, wood, etc.
The main building materials used for this house are bricks and tiles.
bus pass pase/abono de autobús
noun [count] /bʌs pæs/ a special ticket that allows someone to travel by bus without paying each time
Students and old people can have a special bus pass to travel more cheaply across the city.
bus stop parada de autobús noun [count] /bʌs stɑp/ a place marked by a sign at the side of a road where buses stop to let passengers get on and off
The bus will not stop for passengers unless they are at the bus stop.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
business plan plan de negocios noun [count] /ˈbɪznəs plæn/ a document giving details of a company’s plans for the future
If you want the bank to invest in your business, you will need a good business plan.
campus campus noun [count] /ˈkæmpəs/ an area of land containing all the main buildings of a college
My lectures are in different buildings around the college campus.
chore tarea noun [count] /tʃɔr/ an ordinary job that has to be done regularly
Her daily chores include vacuuming and doing the dishes.
civilization civilización noun [count] /ˌsɪvɪlɪˈzeɪʃ(ə)n/ a society that has developed its own culture and institutions
We learn a lot about ancient civilizations from archeological sites.
classic clásico adjective /ˈklæsɪk/ completely typical It was a classic example of love at first sight!
classroom salón de clases noun [count] /ˈklæsˌrum/ a room where you have classes in a school
You are not allowed into the classrooms at school unless a teacher is there.
competition competencia noun [noncount]
/ˌkɑmpəˈtɪʃ(ə)n/ the activities of companies that are trying to be more successful than others
Before you set up a business, find out what competition you have in your area.
complicated complicado adjective /ˈkɑmplɪˌkeɪtəd/ difficult to do, deal with, or understand, especially because of involving a lot of different processes or aspects
Starting a business isn’t simple, but it’s not as complicated as people think.
create crear verb /kriˈeɪt/ to make something new or original that did not exist before
Ask someone artistic to help you create an identity for your business.
dissatisfied insatisfecho adjective /dɪsˈsætɪsˌfaɪd/ annoyed because something is not as good as you expected it to be
She is a very dissatisfied customer.
eCommerce comercio electrónico
noun [noncount]
/iˈkɑˌmɜrs/ the activity of buying and selling goods on the internet
eCommerce is one way to make money online.
effective eficaz adjective /ɪˈfektɪv/ someone or something that works well and produces the intended result
To be an effective communicator, you have to be able to listen to other people.
enormous enorme adjective /ɪˈnɔrməs/ very large in size The college campus is enormous; you will have to take a bus from one side to the other.
entrepreneur empresario noun [count] /ˌɑntrəprəˈnʊr/ someone who uses money to start businesses and make business deals
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
ask a favor pedir un favor phrase /æsk ə ˈfeɪvər/ to request that someone does something to help you
I need to ask a favor. Will you drive me to the train station?
ask permission pedir permiso phrase /æsk pərˈmɪʃ(ə)n/ to request that someone in authority gives you the right to do something
Children should ask permission from their parents before downloading apps.
base on basar (algo) en verb /beɪs ɑn/ to use particular ideas or facts to make a decision, do a calculation, or develop a theory
My opinion of him is based on gossip; I have never met him!
benefit beneficio noun [count] /ˈbenəfɪt/ an advantage you get from a situation
Communication with friends is good for us; it has social and psychological benefits.
collect reunir verb /kəˈlekt/ to get things and keep them together for a particular reason
First we collect the data, and then we analyze it.
conflict conflicto noun [count] /ˈkɑnˌflɪkt/ angry disagreement between people or groups
I try to avoid conflict at work because I like a positive working environment.
connotation(s) connotación (connotaciones)
noun [count] /ˌkɑnəˈteɪʃ(ə)n/ an additional idea or emotion that a word suggests to you, that is not part of its usual meaning
The verb “gossip” has negative connotations, but gossiping isn’t always bad.
controversial controvertido adjective /ˌkɑntrəˈvɜrʃ(ə)l/ a controversial subject, opinion, or decision is one that people disagree about or do not approve of
There are controversial plans to build a highway through the town.
conversation conversación noun [count] /ˌkɑnvərˈseɪʃ(ə)n/ a talk between two or more people, usually a private and informal one
Two-thirds of all human conversation is gossip.
convince convencer verb /kənˈvɪns/ to persuade someone to do something
He convinced me to buy the secondhand car, even though I wanted a new one.
criticism crítica noun [noncount]
/ˈkrɪtɪˌsɪzəm/ comments that show that you think something is wrong or bad
Most gossip is not based on criticism. Some gossip is positive about people.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
data datos noun [noncount]
/ˈdætə/ facts or information used for making calculations or decisions: can be followed by a plural verb in scientific English, in which case the singular is datum
Do a survey to collect data for your report.
desktop computer
computadora de escritorio
noun [count] /ˈdeskˌtɑp kəmˈpjutər/
a computer that is designed for use in a single location, for example, at a desk
I have a desktop computer in the office and a laptop for when I work at home.
direct directo adjective /dɪˈrekt/ saying what you really think in a very clear and honest way
My boss is very direct and she often offends people in the office.
element elemento noun [count] /ˈelɪmənt/ a small but important amount of a particular quality or feeling
Gossip is just communication about people with an evaluative element.
entertainment entretenimiento noun [noncount]
/ˌentərˈteɪnmənt/ performances that people enjoy
The survey showed that more women read entertainment news than sports news.
establish establecer verb /ɪˈstæblɪʃ/ to make something start to exist or start to happen
The new leader established good relations with the business community.
exchange information
intercambiar información
phrase /ɪksˈtʃeɪndʒ ˌɪnfərˈmeɪʃ(ə)n/
to give someone information, and then listen to what information they give you
She thinks she’s “exchanging information,” but we think she’s gossiping!
explain explicar verb /ɪkˈspleɪn/ to tell someone something in a way that helps them understand it better
I was confused by the results until the teacher explained them.
face-to-face cara a cara adjective /feɪs tə feɪs/ involving two people who are together in the same place
I prefer to do business in face-to-face meetings rather than via videoconferencing.
findings conclusiones noun [noncount]
/ˈfaɪndɪŋz/ information or opinions that come from doing research
The findings of the research were absolutely fascinating.
follow seguir verb /ˈfɑloʊ/ to be interested in the progress or development of someone or something
I follow sports news during the Olympics, but not at any other time.
give a speech dar un discurso phrase /ɡɪv ə spitʃ/ to speak to an audience in a formal setting
The President gave an excellent speech to Congress.
give a talk dar una plática phrase /ɡɪv ə tɔk/ to present an informal lecture about a subject
Pete gave a talk on his travels in Nepal.
gossip chisme noun [noncount]
/ˈɡɑsɪp/ conversation about unimportant subjects, especially people’s private lives
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
tell the truth decir la verdad phrase /tel ðə truθ/ to give the actual facts about something, rather than what people think or say is true
My sister is very honest. She always tells the truth.
trivial trivial adjective /ˈtrɪviəl/ not very interesting, serious, or valuable
I don’t see Mary anymore because she just talks about trivial things like shopping and make up.
two-thirds dos tercios noun [noncount]
/tu θɜrdz/ two of three equal parts of something
Only two-thirds of the class passed the exam; that’s only about 65%!
unexpected inesperado adjective /ˌʌnɪkˈspektəd/ something that is surprising because you did not expect it at all, or you expected it to happen in a different way
If you get any unexpected results, you may not have set up the experiment properly.
values valores phrase /ˈvæljuz/ the principles and beliefs that influence the behavior and way of life of a particular group or community
They have a different set of values from us, and live a very different life.
via a través de preposition /ˈvaɪə/ using a particular method or person to send or deliver something
We keep in touch via social media websites.
vital vital adjective /ˈvaɪt(ə)l/ very important, necessary, or essential
It is vital that schools teach students to use computer technology.
workmate compañero de trabajo
noun [count] /ˈwɜrkˌmeɪt/ someone you work with
He always goes out with his workmates after work on Friday evenings.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
aggressive agresivo adjective /əˈɡresɪv/ behaving in an angry or rude way that shows you want to fight, attack, or argue with someone
The company will not tolerate aggressive behavior towards its staff.
appear parecer verb /əˈpɪr/ to make other people think that you are something, or feel something. Appear is a slightly more formal word than seem.
He appeared nervous in the interview, but he said he felt confident.
arm brazo noun [count] /ɑrm/ one of the two long parts of your body with your hands at the end
Put your arms around her to keep her warm.
arrest arrestar verb /əˈrest/ if the police arrest someone, they take that person to a police station because they believe he or she has committed a crime. Someone who has been arrested is under arrest and if they are not allowed to leave, they are in custody.
He was arrested for stealing a car.
carry tener verb /ˈkeri/ communicate something
The words you say carry some of the meaning, but your body language and facial expressions carry more!
cheat on (someone)
engañar verb phrase /tʃit ɑn/ to have a secret romantic relationship with someone who is not your husband, wife, or partner. You can also say that someone is unfaithful to their husband, wife, or partner.
If he cheated on her, then she will leave him.
climate change cambio climático noun [noncount]
/ˈklaɪmət tʃeɪndʒ/ the changes that are thought to be affecting the world’s weather so that it is becoming warmer
My main concern about climate change is the melting of the polar regions.
close friend amigo cercano noun [count] /kloʊz frend/ a good friend I have known her for a long time, but she isn’t one of my close friends.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
communicator comunicador noun [count] /kəˈmjunɪˌkeɪtər/ someone who expresses thoughts, feelings, or information to another person, for example, by speaking or writing
Are you a good communicator at work?
confront afrontar, enfrentar verb /kənˈfrʌnt/ to deal with a difficult situation
If you don’t confront him, you will never know if he is cheating on you or not.
consequence consecuencia noun [count] /ˈkɑnsəkwəns/ a result or effect of something
You have to consider the consequences of your actions.
course of action
curso de acción noun [count] /kɔrs əv ˈækʃ(ə)n/ things you do in order to achieve a particular purpose
You have to consider all of the possible courses of action before you make a decision.
cousin primo noun [count] /ˈkʌz(ə)n/ a child of your uncle or aunt
She has a large family, with lots of cousins.
defensive defensivo adjective /dɪˈfensɪv/ showing that you are angry or offended when you think that someone is criticizing you
He got really defensive when I asked him why he left early.
dilemma dilema noun [count] /dɪˈlemə/ a situation in which you have to make a difficult decision because the options seem equally good or bad
I’m in a dilemma about the job offer. Do I change jobs or not?
display exposición, muestra noun [count] /dɪˈspleɪ/ an arrangement of things for people to look at
The display in the store window looked great.
drop out abandonar verb phrase /drɑp aʊt/ to leave something such as an activity, school, or competition before you have finished what you intended to do
Please don’t drop out of the trip. We can’t go if we don’t have enough people.
economy economía noun [noncount]
/ɪˈkɑnəmi/ the whole of a country’s business, industry, and trade, and the money that they produce
Between 1982 and 1988, the economy grew at an average of about three percent per year.
ethical ético adjective /ˈeθɪk(ə)l/ involving the principles used for deciding what is right and what is wrong
Using animals in scientific research raises ethical questions.
evaluation evaluación noun [count] /ɪˌvæljuˈeɪʃn/ a judgement about how good, useful, or successful something is
We need to carry out a full evaluation of the new computer system.
exercise ejercitar verb /ˈeksərˌsaɪz/ to do a physical activity such as walking, swimming, or running in order to stay healthy and make your body stronger
I am going to exercise more often because I want to get in shape.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
face cara noun [count] /feɪs/ the front part of your head, where your eyes, nose, and mouth are
She has a beautiful face, with dark brown eyes and a small nose.
feedback retroalimentación noun [noncount]
/ˈfidˌbæk/ comments about how well or how badly someone is doing something, which are intended to help them do it better
I didn’t get the job, but they gave me some useful feedback after the interview.
gesture gesto noun [count] /ˈdʒestʃər/ a movement that communicates a feeling or instruction
He makes a lot of gestures with his hands when he speaks Italian!
hand mano noun [count] /hænd/ the part of your body at the end of each arm that you use for picking up and holding things
In soccer, only the goalkeeper can touch the ball with his hands.
instinct instinto noun [count] /ˈɪnstɪŋkt/ a natural ability to know what to do in a particular situation
In business, it is often best to follow your instincts.
interfere interferir verb /ˌɪntərˈfɪr/ to deliberately become involved in a situation and try to influence the way that it develops, although you have no right to do this
Please don’t interfere in my private life. It’s none of your business who I go out with.
keep (something) secret
mantener (algo) en secreto
verb phrase /kip ˈsikrət/ not tell a piece of information that is known by only a small number of people
She kept her illness a secret from her whole family.
life change cambio de vida noun [count] /laɪf tʃeɪndʒ/ a change of circumstance that greatly affects your life
We made a huge life change when we moved from New York City to rural Australia.
loud escandaloso adjective /laʊd/ used for describing a person who talks in a loud and confident way that annoys other people
Jenna is so loud; she always spoils a party because she talks so much and has to be the center of attention.
moral moral adjective /ˈmɔrəl/ relating to right and wrong and the way that people should behave
Stephen was faced with the moral dilemma of whether he should return the money he had found.
movement movimiento noun [count] /ˈmuvmənt/ a change in the position of your body or a particular way of moving your body
The injury has restricted movement in his arm.
observe observar verb /əbˈzɜrv/ to watch or study someone or something with care and attention in order to discover something
Please observe him carefully for 24 hours after his head injury, in case there are signs of deterioration.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
assume suponer verb /əˈsum/ to believe that something is true, even though you have no proof
Don’t assume that you will play on the team, since there are a lot of good players.
assumption suposición noun [count] /əˈsʌmpʃ(ə)n/ something that you think is likely to be true, although you cannot be certain
It’s important not to make assumptions until we know all the facts.
blind ciego adjective /blaɪnd/ unable to see. Some people prefer to use the expression visually impaired.
Blind and sighted children attend the same school.
brain cerebro noun [count] /breɪn/ the organ inside your head that allows you to think and feel, and controls your body
The human brain is divided into two halves.
challenge yourself
ponerse un retoe verb /ˈtʃæləndʒ jərˈself/
to push yourself to do more difficult things
She’s studying for another degree to challenge herself.
child prodigy niño prodigio noun [count] /tʃaɪld ˈprɑdədʒi/ a child who is extremely skillful at something that usually only adults can do
His five-year-old son plays the piano better than most adults; he could be a child prodigy.
crucial crucial adjective /ˈkruʃ(ə)l/ something that is crucial is extremely important because it has a major effect on the result of something
Hard work is crucial to exam success.
deaf sordo adjective /def/ not able to hear anything or not able to hear very well. Many deaf people wear a hearing aid to help them hear. Deaf people often use their hands to communicate in sign language and many can lip-read what other people are saying.
He’s a little deaf in one ear, but he can cope at school.
defining factor factor definitorio noun [count] /dɪˈfaɪnɪŋ ˈfæktər/ a feature or quality that shows exactly what someone or something is like
The defining factor of genius is originality.
develop an ability
desarrollar una habilidad
phrase /dɪˈveləp ən əˈbɪləti/
to become skillful at something
We develop abilities in many things as we grow older.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
inventor inventor noun [count] /ɪnˈventər/ someone who has invented something or whose job is to invent things
Leonardo da Vinci was a scientist, an inventor, a writer, and an artist!
IQ IQ noun [noncount]
/ˌaɪ ˈkju/ intelligence quotient: a number that represents someone’s intelligence
He has a very high IQ, but no common sense!
keyboard teclado noun [count] /ˈkiˌbɔrd/ a musical instrument that has keys, especially an electric piano
I can play the keyboard and the piano because they are really similar.
left-brain que predomina el lado izquierdo del cerebro
adjective /left breɪn/ left-brain thinkers rely more on the part of their brain that is used for thinking creatively and intuitively
Left-brain thinkers tend to like art and music at school.
left-handed zurdo adjective /ˌleft ˈhændɪd/ someone who is left-handed is born with a natural tendency to use their left hand to do things, especially things such as writing
According to studies, left-handed people are more artistic than right-handed people.
lift subir verb /lɪft/ to move something to a higher position
I cannot lift the suitcase; it is too heavy.
like como preposition /laɪk/ used for introducing an example of something or someone that you have just mentioned
You should avoid fatty foods like cake and cookies.
logic lógica noun [noncount]
/ˈlɑdʒɪk/ the way that someone connects ideas when they are explaining something or giving a reason
Logic is useless in understanding how we fall in love with someone.
matchstick palillo noun [count] /ˈmætʃˌstɪk/ a single match made of wood
He used to build things out of matchsticks when he was a child.
of some kind de algún tipo phrase /ɑv sʌm kaɪnd/ a type of person or thing
She’s working on a business deal of some kind in France.
ordinary ordinario adjective /ˈɔrd(ə)nˌeri/ normal or average, and not unusual or special
Most ordinary people need a calculator to do that equation.
originality originalidad noun [noncount]
/əˌrɪdʒəˈnæləti/ the quality of being new, interesting, and different
His writing shows real originality.
overlook pasar por alto verb /ˌoʊvərˈlʊk/ to fail to consider someone or something, or to fail to recognize success
She was overlooked for the job because she was considered too old at 55. The successful candidate was only 30.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
accident accidente noun [count] /ˈæksɪdənt/ a crash involving a car, train, plane, or other vehicle
The accident was caused by ice on the road.
accidentally accidentalmente adverb /ˌæksɪˈdent(ə)li/ by mistake, rather than deliberate intention
I accidentally sent a private email to my boss. It was so embarrassing.
agency agencia noun [count] /ˈeɪdʒənsi/ a business that provides a service for people or companies, especially by giving them information or making arrangements
We used a design agency to create the logo.
airline aerolínea noun [count] /ˈerˌlaɪn/ a company that owns aircrafts and takes people or goods by plane from one place to another
Which airline will you fly with to Singapore?
answer responder verb /ˈænsər/ to give a spoken reply to a question
Please answer me when I ask you a question!
approach enfoque noun [count] /əˈproʊtʃ/ a particular way of thinking about or dealing with something
That doesn’t seem to be working. Can we try a different approach?
baboon babuino noun [count] /bəˈbun/ a type of large monkey from Africa or South Asia
We saw lots of baboons on our vacation in Africa.
background fondo noun [noncount]
/ˈbækˌɡraʊnd/ the general situation in which something happens
The talks have been taking place against a background of increasing violence.
basket canasta noun [count] /ˈbæskət/ a container for carrying or keeping things in, made from thin pieces of plastic, wire, or wood woven together, and sometimes with a handle
I take a basket when I go shopping so that I don’t use the plastic bags at supermarkets.
business dinner cena de negocios noun [count] /ˈbɪznəs ˈdɪnər/ an evening meal arranged by people involved in business together
I won’t be home until later tonight because I have a business dinner.
campaign campaña noun [count] /kæmˈpeɪn/ a series of things such as television advertisements or posters that try to persuade people to buy a product
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
cancel cancelar verb /ˈkæns(ə)l/ to say that a legal agreement or obligation is now ended
I cancelled my cell phone contract because the service was bad.
characterize caracterizar verb /ˈkerəktəˌraɪz/ to describe someone or something as a particular type of person or thing
The movie was characterized as a “romantic comedy.”
childish infantil adjective /ˈtʃaɪldɪʃ/ suited to a small child The humor in the movie was childish; my little brother thought it was very funny, but I didn’t!
client cliente noun [count] /ˈklaɪənt/ someone who pays for the services of a professional person
We have an important client visiting the office today, so please work hard.
climb escalar verb /klaɪm/ to use your hands and feet to move up, over, down, or across something
He climbed onto the rocks and looked out at the ocean.
context contexto noun [count] /ˈkɑnˌtekst/ the general situation in which something happens, which helps to explain it
The events are easier to understand when you know the historical context.
cry gritar verb /kraɪ/ to shout something They heard the trapped crowd crying, “Please help us!”
disappear desaparecer verb /ˌdɪsəˈpɪr/ to no longer happen or exist
The symptoms will disappear after a few days.
disturbing perturbador adjective /dɪˈstɜrbɪŋ/ making you feel extremely worried or upset
I found the descriptions of war in the book deeply disturbing.
eagle águila noun [count] /ˈiɡ(ə)l/ a large bird that eats other animals
We noticed a large bird in the sky and then we realized it was an eagle.
elephant elefante noun [count] /ˈeləfənt/ a very large wild animal that lives in Africa and Asia. It has thick, gray skin, and a very long nose called a trunk.
We saw elephants on our safari.
emotionally emocionalmente adverb /ɪˈmoʊʃ(ə)nəli/ in a way that affects your feelings, and the way these feelings affect your life
The divorce affected the children emotionally.
entertaining entretenido adjective /ˌentərˈteɪnɪŋ/ enjoyable or interesting
The play was very entertaining.
evening tarde noun [count] /ˈivnɪŋ/ the part of the day between the end of the afternoon and night, including the time when the sun goes down
Most people go out to see their friends on Friday and Saturday evenings.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
executive ejecutivo noun [count] /ɪɡˈzekjətɪv/ a senior manager in a business or other organization
We had a meeting with the company’s top executives.
fairy tale cuento de hadas noun [count] /ˈferi teɪl/ a traditional children’s story in which magic things happen
Sleeping Beauty is my favorite fairy tale.
flight attendant sobrecargo noun [count] /flaɪt əˈtendənt/ someone whose job is to take care of passengers on a plane
The flight attendant brought meals to the passengers during the flight.
get lost perderse verb /ɡet lɔst/ to not know where you are
I got lost on my way to the meeting and arrived late.
gripping apasionante adjective /ˈɡrɪpɪŋ/ very exciting and interesting
I thought his stories about traveling to the North Pole were gripping – especially the dangerous parts!
halfway through
a mitad de adverbial phrase
/hæfˈweɪ θru/ in the middle of a period of time
Halfway through the interview, my cell phone rang. It was really embarrassing.
hungry for ávido de verb /ˈhʌŋɡri fər/ wanting something, or wanting to do something, very much
The team is hungry for success this season!
hunting caza noun [noncount]
/ˈhʌntɪŋ/ the activity of chasing and killing wild animals
The people who live in the forest go hunting for animals most days.
imaginative imaginativo adjective /ɪˈmædʒɪnətɪv/ involving new, different, or exciting ideas
He was more imaginative than most history teachers.
in response (to) en respuesta a phrase /ɪn rɪˈspɑns/ something that is done as a reaction to something that has happened, or been said
In response to the allegations, he said, “No comment.”
in return a cambio phrase /ɪn rɪˈtɜrn/ as payment, or in exchange for something, or as a way of thanking someone for something
He gave us some local cheese and we gave him some local honey in return.
incident incidente noun [count] /ˈɪnsɪdənt/ something that happens, especially a violent, criminal, or dangerous event
Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident.
interview entrevista noun [count] /ˈɪntərˌvju/ a formal meeting in which someone asks you questions to find out if you are suitable for a job, course of study, etc.
I had three interviews for the job.
irrelevant irrelevante adjective /ɪˈreləvənt/ not important or not relevant to what you are discussing or doing
My views are irrelevant; the decision has been made.
junior subalterno adjective /ˈdʒuniər/ a junior person does not have a lot of responsibility or power in their job
He’s only a junior member of staff, so it is better to ask someone else.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
magical mágico adjective /ˈmædʒɪk(ə)l/ involving magic or the use of magic
Local people believe that this tree has magical powers.
matter importar verb /ˈmætər/ to be important Winning this award really matters to me.
moving conmovedor adjective /ˈmuvɪŋ/ making you feel emotional
I find the documentary about his difficult childhood very moving.
name nombre noun [count] /neɪm/ a word, or set of words, by which a person or thing is usually known
I am really bad at remembering names. Is it Joe or Harry?
nothing else nada más phrase /ˈnʌθɪŋ els/ not anything more I want my children to be happy. Nothing else matters.
oversleep quedarse dormido verb /ˌoʊvərˈslip/ to wake up later than you intended to
You cannot oversleep tomorrow, so please set your alarm clock tonight.
pass pasar verb /pæs/ to go past something How many stores do you pass on your way to school?
passenger pasajero noun [count] /ˈpæsɪndʒər/ someone who travels in a motor vehicle, aircraft, train, or ship, but is not the driver or one of the people who works on it
This car can take up to seven passengers!
people gente noun [noncount]
/ˈpip(ə)l/ all the persons who belong to a nation, religion, or race: can be followed by a singular or plural verb
These people are proud and dignified.
picture imagen noun [count] /ˈpɪktʃər/ a drawing, painting, or photograph
I drew a picture of the house with colored pencils.
pointless sin sentido adjective /ˈpɔɪntləs/ lacking any purpose or use
These forms are just pointless paperwork.
rabbit conejo noun [count] /ˈræbɪt/ a small animal with long ears and soft fur that some people keep as a pet
I am taking care of a friend’s rabbit while she is away.
refuse rechazar verb /rɪˈfjuz/ to say that you will not do or accept something, or will not let someone do something
Mom asked him to apologize, but he refused.
safety seguridad noun [noncount]
/ˈseɪfti/ relating to how safe something is, or designed to make something safer
The new car has had safety issues, including problems with the brakes and the seatbelts.
sea turtle tortuga de mar noun [count] /si ˈtɜrt(ə)l/ a turtle that lives in the ocean
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
search buscar verb /sɜrtʃ/ to try to find something or someone by looking carefully
Rescue teams are still searching through the wreckage for survivors.
series serie noun [count] /ˈsɪriz/ a set of similar things that follow one after another
There will be a series of ads between June and October.
shell concha noun [count] /ʃel/ the hard, outer part that protects the body of a sea creature or other animal
We collected shells and pebbles from the beach.
slogan slogan noun [count] /ˈsloʊɡən/ a short phrase that is easy to remember and is used to advertise something or to express the beliefs of a political party or other group
We re-launched the business with a new image and a new slogan.
smile sonreir verb /smaɪl/ to raise the corners of your mouth when you are happy, pleased, being friendly, or when you think something is funny
He smiled and waved as I arrived at the station.
soaked empapado adjective /soʊkt/ extremely wet I walked to school in the rain this morning and my jacket is soaked.
sophisticated sofisticado adjective /səˈfɪstɪˌkeɪtəd/ complicated and advanced in design
This plan was more sophisticated than previous attempts to rob the bank.
spill derramar verb /spɪl/ to accidentally pour a liquid out of its container
He spilled a drink down his shirt, so he went to change it.
split up separarse phrasal verb /splɪt ʌp/ to end a marriage or romantic relationship
I split up with my boyfriend so I’m single again.
suggest sugerir verb /səɡˈdʒest/ to offer an idea or a plan for someone to consider
Can you suggest any new restaurants to try?
survive sobrevivir verb /sərˈvaɪv/ to continue to exist or live, especially in a difficult or dangerous situation
Fish cannot survive for long out of the water.
take over sustituir phrasal verb /teɪk ˈoʊvər/ to take control of something
At the end of the book, the aliens take over the planet.
tale cuento noun [count] /teɪl/ a story about imaginary events or people
He told tales of dragons and faraway kingdoms.
the bottom of el fondo de phrase /ðə ˈbɑtəm əv/ the deepest part of the ocean or of a pool, lake, or river
He is too short to touch the bottom of the pool with his toes.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
ache doler verb /eɪk/ if part of your body aches, you feel a continuous pain there that is unpleasant, but not very strong
I carried lots of heavy shopping yesterday, and now my arms ache.
afford poder pagar verb /əˈfɔrd/ if you can afford something, you have enough money to be able to pay for it. This word usually follows can, could, or be able to.
I can’t afford to go on vacation; I don’t earn enough money.
apartment departamento noun [count] /əˈpɑrtmənt/ a set of rooms for living in, usually on one floor of a large building
I moved into a small apartment as soon as I had enough money to pay the rent.
appointment cita noun [count] /əˈpɔɪntmənt/ an arrangement to see someone at a particular time, especially for a business meeting or to get a professional service
Do I need to make an appointment or can I just turn up?
big grande adjective /bɪɡ/ large in degree or having a strong effect
The concerts have been a big success.
blood pressure presión sanguínea noun [noncount]
/blʌd ˈpreʃər/ the pressure at which blood flows from your heart around your body. Blood pressure that is either very high or very low can be dangerous to your health.
He has a heart problem and takes pills to control his blood pressure.
blue azul adjective /blu/ something that is blue is the same color as the sky on a clear, sunny day.
What a beautiful, blue sky!
blurred borroso adjective /blɜrd/ difficult to see clearly, or causing difficulty in seeing something clearly
Without my glasses, everything is blurred!
brainstem tronco cerebral noun [count] /ˈbreɪnˌstem/ the part of the brain above the spinal cord, between the left and right halves of the brain
The human brainstem controls functions such as heartbeat, breathing, and blood pressure.
brand new nuevo adjective /brænd nu/ extremely new The teaching course was the start of a brand new career!
the outer layer of the cerebrum (=the front part of your brain)
The cerebral cortex controls human emotion and receives information from our sense organs.
chest infection infección respiratoria
noun [count] /tʃest ɪnˈfekʃ(ə)n/ a disease or other medical condition affecting your chest that is caused by bacteria, or by a virus or a parasite
If you have difficulty breathing, you may have a chest infection.
cold resfriado noun [count] /koʊld/ a minor illness that blocks your nose and makes you cough
I’m not really sick; I just have a cold.
common común adjective /ˈkɑmən/ happening frequently, or existing in large amounts or numbers
The most common symptoms are a high temperature and sore throat.
cooking cocina noun [noncount]
/ˈkʊkɪŋ/ the process of preparing and heating food so that it is ready to eat
I miss my mom’s delicious cooking. I can only make pasta and baked potatoes!
cough tos noun [count] /kɑf/ to force air up through your throat with a sudden noise, especially when you have a cold, or when you want to get someone’s attention
She has a bad cough which keeps her up at night.
crowded abarrotado adjective /ˈkraʊdəd/ containing a lot of people, especially too many
The trains are very crowded at rush hour.
cut cortar verb /kʌt/ to injure a part of your body with something sharp that pierces the skin
She cut her finger on a knife in the kitchen.
diagram diagrama noun [count] /ˈdaɪəˌɡræm/ a drawing that explains something
If you don’t understand the process, look at the diagram in your book.
dizzy mareado adjective /ˈdɪzi/ feeling that the things around you are spinning and that you are going to fall
If you feel dizzy, you should sit down and close your eyes.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
doctor doctor noun [count] /ˈdɑktər/ someone whose job is to treat people who are sick or injured. When written as a title, the abbreviation of doctor is Dr. A doctor who performs medical operations is called a surgeon.
I have an appointment with a doctor because I don’t feel well.
doctor’s office consultorio noun [count] /ˈdɑktərz ˈɔfɪs/ a place where people can visit a doctor
I have worked as a receptionist at a doctor’s office for a year.
ear oreja noun [count] /ɪr/ one of the two parts on the sides of your head that you hear with
Elephants have very large ears.
eye ojo noun [count] /aɪ/ one of the two parts of your face that you use for seeing
Close your eyes. It’s a surprise.
feel sick sentirse enfermo verb /fil sɪk/ to feel that food that you have eaten is going to come out of your stomach through your mouth
She feels sick because she ate so much candy.
finger dedo noun [count] /ˈfɪŋɡər/ one of the four long, thin parts on the end of your hands
It’s rude to point your finger at people.
flu gripa noun [noncount]
/flu/ a very common infectious disease that lasts for a short time and makes you feel weak and tired
I had the flu last winter and stayed in bed for a week!
food poisoning intoxicación por alimentos
noun [noncount]
/fudˈpɔɪz(ə)nɪŋ/ an illness caused by eating food that contains harmful bacteria
If you don’t cook chicken properly, you can get food poisoning.
green verde adjective /ɡrin/ something that is green is the same color as fresh grass
The new shoots were green and healthy.
group grupo noun [count] /ɡrup/ one of the sets that a large number of people or things is divided into
Divide the class into groups of four.
have a temperature
tener temperatura verb /hæv ə ˈtemp(ə)rəˌtʃʊr/
to have a temperature that is higher than normal, which means that you have a fever
She’s had a temperature of 104 degrees for two days.
hay fever alergia al polen noun [noncount]
/heɪ ˈfivər/ a medical condition caused by pollen (=powder produced by flowers) that affects your nose and eyes as if you had a bad cold
I get hay fever in the spring when the pollen count is high.
house casa noun [count] /haʊs/ a building for living in, usually where only one family lives
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
house call visita a domicilio noun [count] /haʊs kɔl/ a visit from a doctor at your home when you are too sick to go to the doctors office
My grandma was too sick to go to the doctor’s office, so we asked for a house call.
hurt lastimar verb /hɜrt/ to cause physical pain or injury
He hurt his knee when he fell off his bicycle.
hypothalamus hipotálamo noun [count] /ˌhaɪpoʊˈθæləməs/ a small area on the lower part of your brain that controls your heartbeat and body temperature, and also affects your pituitary gland
The hypothalamus controls human body fuctions such as temperature and behavior.
indigo índigo adjective /ˈɪndɪɡoʊ/ a color that is between dark blue and purple
The evening sky was a very beautiful shade of indigo.
injury herida noun [count] /ˈɪndʒəri/ physical damage done to a person or a part of their body
He had some minor injuries after the accident.
itchy con comezón adjective /ˈɪtʃi/ if you feel itchy, you want to scratch your skin
My scalp is really itchy after using that new shampoo.
layer capa noun [count] /ˈleɪr/ an amount or sheet of a substance that covers a surface or that lies between two things or two other substances
There was a thin layer of ice on the sidewalk.
letter letra noun [count] /ˈletər/ a written symbol that is used to represent a sound used in speech
There are five letters in my name: S-A-R-A-H.
migraine migraña noun [count] /ˈmaɪˌɡreɪn/ a very severe headache
It’s not just a headache; it’s a bad migraine.
muscle músculo noun [count] /ˈmʌs(ə)l/ a piece of flesh that connects bones and moves a particular part of your body
These exercises are good for your stomach muscles.
my own place mi propia casa phrase /maɪ oʊn pleɪs/ your own house or apartment
I want to move out of my parents’ house and get my own place.
orange anaranjado adjective /ˈɔrəndʒ/ a color that is between red and yellow
The sun looks orange when it is setting.
organ órgano noun [count] /ˈɔrɡən/ a part of your body that does a specific job, such as your heart or brain. Your vital organs are the organs that you cannot live without.
The Health Service has a register of potential organ donors.
pull a muscle tener un tirón verb /pʊl ə mʌs(ə)l/ to injure a muscle by stretching it too much
I pulled a muscle in my leg so I can’t run for a week.
red rojo adjective /red/ something that is red is the same color as blood
She was wearing bright red lipstick.
regret arrepentimiento noun /rɪˈɡret/ a feeling of sadness about something that you wish you had not said or done, or you wish you had done
I don’t have any regrets about leaving the army. I am very happy with civilian life.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
classical clásico adjective /ˈklæsɪk(ə)l/ relating to classical music
We perform both modern and classical music.
close-up close-up noun [count] /kloʊz ʌp/ a picture or video of someone or something taken from a position very near them
In the movie there were a lot of close-ups to show the emotion on the actors’ faces.
colorful colorido adjective /ˈkʌlərf(ə)l/ something that is colorful, has bright colors, or a lot of different colors
The costumes weren’t very colorful; all the actors wore black or gray.
communication skills
habilidades comunicativas
noun [noncount]
/kəˌmjunɪˈkeɪʃ(ə)n skɪlz//
the process of giving information, or of making emotions or ideas known to someone
This job involves dealing with a lot ofpeople, so you need good communication skills.
costume disfraz noun [count] /ˈkɑsˌtum/ clothes that the actors wear in a play or movie
I have to wear a lion costume in the play.
crowd multitud noun [count] /kraʊd/ a large number of people in the same place
The boys disappeared into the crowd.
decoration decoración noun [noncount]
/ˌdekəˈreɪʃ(ə)n/ the activity of decorating a room
The decorations for the birthday party made the room look colorful and bright.
director director noun [count] /dɪˈrektər/ someone whose job is to tell the actors and technical staff who are involved in a movie, play, or show what to do
My favorite movie director is Tarantino.
dramatic dramático adjective /drəˈmætɪk/ exciting and impressive
The fight scenes were very dramatic!
event evento noun [count] /ɪˈvent/ an organized occasion such as a party or sports competition
The concert is an annual event.
furniture muebles noun [noncount]
/ˈfɜrnɪtʃər/ the chairs, tables, beds, dressers, etc. that you put in a room or house so that you can live in it
I can’t afford to buy much furniture. I only have a table, a bed, and two chairs.
future futuro noun [noncount]
/ˈfjutʃər/ the time that follows the present time
We have to plan now for the future.
high alto adjective /haɪ/ large in amount I can’t afford to buy an apartment, because the prices are so high!
interactive interactivo adjective /ˌɪntərˈæktɪv/ an interactive computer program, video, etc. reacts to the information and instructions that you give it
This new TV has some interactive features.
live en vivo adjective /laɪv/ a live performance is given before an audience
We found a bar that has live music on Friday nights.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
scene escena noun [count] /sin/ a part of a play, book, movie, etc. in which events happen in the same place or period of time
I liked the scene when the hero rescued the woman from the fire.
scenery escenografía noun [noncount]
/ˈsin(ə)ri/ the furniture and painted background on a theater stage
The scenery fell down during the play, but none of the actors was hurt.
score partitura noun [count] /skɔr/ a written copy of a piece of music
The complete musical scores of Strauss are in the library.
screenplay guión noun [count] /ˈskrinˌpleɪ/ a story someone writes for a movie
The screenplay was an adaptation of a novel by Dickens.
seat asiento noun [count] /sit/ a seat as a passenger on a plane, bus, etc. or as a member of the audience in a theater, which you pay for in order to use
Our seats are numbered J8 and J9.
sense of humor sentido del humor noun [noncount]
/sens əv ˈhjumər/ the ability to laugh at things and recognize when they are funny
Lynne is a friendly person with a great sense of humor.
show espectáculo noun [count] /ʃoʊ/ a performance, especially in a theater
She had tickets to see the new show at the Globe Theater.
sit sentarse verb /sɪt/ to be in a position in which the lower part of your body rests on a seat or on the ground, while the upper part of your body is upright
I want to sit in the front row so I can see everything.
special effect efecto especial noun [count] /ˈspeʃ(ə)l ɪˈfekt/ an unusual image or sound in a movie, created artificially using various technical methods
The special effects in the movie are amazing!
sporting event evento deportivo noun [count] /ˈspɔrtɪŋ ɪˈvent/ a game in which players or teams compete against each other in a sport
David goes to a lot of sporting events, but he likes soccer the best.
stand estar de pie verb /stænd/ to have your body in an upright position, supported by your feet
The train was full and we had to stand all the way to Boston.
strength fortaleza noun [count] /streŋθ/ something that someone does very well
To form an effective team, you need to know everyone’s strengths and weaknesses.
supporting actress
actriz de reparto noun [count] /səˈpɔrtɪŋ ˈæktrəs/
used about a part in a play or movie that is important, but is not the main part
She won the award for best supporting actress.
take off tomar vuelo phrasal verb /teɪk ɑf/ to become successful or popular very fast
Her business has really taken off. She’s doing really well.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
absence ausencia noun [count] /ˈæbsəns/ a period of time when someone is not where they should be, or where they usually are
Most staff absences are caused by back problems.
axis eje noun [count] /ˈæksɪs/ one of the two fixed lines that are used for showing measurements on a graph
On the x-axis, we can see the percentage of people who live in apartments.
bar graph gráfica de barras noun [count] /bɑr ɡræf/ a graph that represents different amounts or values as thick lines of different lengths
The bar graph showed that more men played computer games than women.
be considerate ser considerado verb phrase /bi kənˈsɪdərət/ to think about the feelings and needs of other people
Please be considerate when you leave the party and don’t wake our neighbors!
brat niño mimado noun [count] /bræt/ an annoying child who behaves badly
I don’t like his young daughter. She behaves like a spoiled brat!
break a promise
romper una promesa
verb phrase /breɪk ə ˈprɑmɪs/ to not do something you agreed to do
It was so disappointing when she broke her promise.
break a rule romper una regla verb phrase /breɪk ə rul/ to fail to obey a statement explaining what someone can or cannot do in a particular system, game, or situation
Students who break these rules will be punished.
budget presupuesto noun [count] /ˈbʌdʒət/ the amount of money a person or organization has to spend on something
We only have a small budget for the movie, so we have to shoot it here in Florida.
building material
material de construcción
noun [count] /ˈbɪldɪŋ məˈtɪriəl/ a substance used for the purpose of building something
Brick was used as the main building material for local houses.
camp campamento noun [count/noncount]
/kæmp/ a place with tents or other shelters where children go on vacation
We arrange a school camp every year.
cheat hacer trampa verb /tʃit/ to behave dishonestly in order to do well on an examination
She cheated on her math exam by copying the person next
damage dañar verb /ˈdæmɪdʒ/ to harm something physically so that it is broken, spoiled, or injured
When I received the goods they were damaged, so I sent them back.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
desperate desesperado adjective /ˈdesp(ə)rət/ very upset and willing to do anything because you are in a bad situation
The missing man’s family is getting increasingly desperate.
discipline disciplina noun [noncount]
/ˈdɪsəplɪn/ practice of making people obey rules, and punishing them if they do not
He believes in strict discipline.
drop dejar caer verb /drɑp/ to let something fall If you drop any trash, please pick it up.
economist economista noun [count] /ɪˈkɑnəmɪst/ an expert in economics, especially one who advises a government department, business, or organization
He’s an economist in the government.
evade evadir verb /ɪˈveɪd/ to avoid accepting or dealing with something that you should do
He evades taxes by spending time living abroad.
face enfrentar verb /feɪs/ to accept that a bad situation exists, and try to deal with it
The new government is facing a number of challenges.
fare pasaje noun [count] /fer/ the money that you pay for a trip
Train fares have increased by 10%.
fare evading evasión de pasaje noun [noncount]
/fer ɪˈveɪdɪŋ/ to avoid paying money for a trip (usually on public transportation)
He got fined $50 for fare evading.
fiancé prometido noun [count] /ˌfiɑnˈseɪ/ your fiancé is the man you are engaged to and are going to get married to
He’s not my boyfriend; he’s my fiancé!
grade calificación noun [count] /ɡreɪd/ a score in the form of a number, percentage, or letter that a teacher gives a student’s work
You’ll get a high grade on the test if you know the chemical formula.
graffiti graffiti noun [noncount]
/ɡrəˈfiti/ words or pictures drawn on walls in public places
There is a lot of graffiti on the subway.
graph gráfica noun [count] /ɡræf/ a picture that uses lines or curves to show the relationship between numbers or measurements that change
Plot the results of the experiment on a graph.
have enough of tener suficiente de phrase /hæv ɪˈnʌf əv/ used for saying that you do not want to experience any more of something because it is annoying or boring
I’ve had enough of your rudeness; I’m leaving!
hurt (someone’s) feelings
herir los sentimientos (de alguien)
phrase /hɜrt ˈfilɪŋz/ to upset someone The things he said about me really hurt my feelings.
illegally ilegalmente adverb /ɪˈliɡ(ə)li/ not allowed to by the law
Parking illegally is a common offense here because there isn’t a parking lot.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
income ingreso noun [noncount]
/ˈɪnˌkʌm/ money that someone gets from working or from investing money
Most of the people in this small town rely on farming for income.
lend prestar verb /lend/ to give someone something for a short time, expecting that they will give it back to you later. If you lend someone something, they borrow it from you.
Can you lend me a pen? Mine has run out.
litter basura noun [noncount]
/ˈlɪtər/ things such as pieces of paper that people have dropped on the ground in a public place, making it dirty
Please take your litter home with you after a day on the beach.
litter tirar basura verb /ˈlɪtər/ to leave trash in a place
Parents should teach their children not to litter.
meaning significado noun [count] /ˈminɪŋ/ the thing, action, feeling, idea, etc. that a word or words represent
All of these words have the same meaning.
measure medida noun [count] /ˈmeʒər/ an action that is intended to achieve or deal with something
Stronger measures will have to be taken to bring down unemployment.
messy desordenado adjective /ˈmesi/ very unclean or dirty Sally is a messy person; her desk is always a mess and so is her room!
natural natural adjective /ˈnætʃ(ə)rəl/ existing in nature and not produced or caused by people
This forest is an area of great natural beauty.
offense delito noun [count] /əˈfens/ a crime or illegal activity for which there is a punishment
It wasn’t his first serious offense, so he was sent to prison.
overall total adjective /ˌoʊvərˈɔl/ considering something as a whole, rather than its details or the different aspects of it
At the end of the game, the overall scores were the same.
parking estacionamiento noun [noncount]
/ˈpɑrkɪŋ/ the process of putting a vehicle into a place and leaving it there
I am really bad at parking. I need a really big space!
part parte noun [count] /pɑrt/ one of the pieces, sections, aspects, etc. that something consists of
Her lack of punctuality is only part of the problem.
poem poema noun [count] /ˈpoʊəm/ a piece of writing using beautiful or unusual language arranged in fixed lines that have a particular beat and often rhyme
I prefer reading poems to novels because they’re shorter!
poetry poesía noun [noncount]
/ˈpoʊətri/ poems He bought me a book of Auden’s poetry for my birthday.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
prevent prevenir verb /prɪˈvent/ to stop something from happening
We have to spend more money preventing crime in the area.
private life vida privada noun [count] /ˈpraɪvət laɪf/ separate from and not related to your work or official position
Do you think we should know about the private lives of politicians?
problem problema noun [count] /ˈprɑbləm/ experiencing a lot of difficulties in life or causing difficulties for other people
He has always been a problem child. He has been in trouble with the police since the age of nine.
property propiedad noun [noncount]
/ˈprɑpərti/ land and the buildings on it
He vandalized public property throughout the town.
public público adjective /ˈpʌblɪk/ available for people in general to use
You cannot smoke in any public places.
punish castigar verb /ˈpʌnɪʃ/ to do something unpleasant to someone because they have done something bad or illegal
He was punished for stealing.
ranch finca, rancho noun [count] /ræntʃ/ a very large farm in the western U.S. or Canada, where cows, horses, or sheep are kept
I lived on a ranch for a year and rode horses.
reality show reality show noun [count] /riˈæləti ʃoʊ/ a TV program that does not use professional actors, but shows real events and situations involving ordinary people
Big Brother is my favorite reality show.
redesign rediseñar verb /ridɪˈzaɪn/ design something again
The boss doesn’t like the logo so we have to redesign it.
respect respeto noun [noncount]
/rɪˈspekt/ a feeling of admiration that you have for someone because of their personal qualities, their achievements, or their status, and that you show by treating them in a polite and kind way
She has worked hard to gain the respect of her colleagues.
reward recompensa noun [count] /rɪˈwɔrd/ something good that happens or that you receive because of something that you have done
Working hard as part of a team brings great rewards.
rule regla noun [count] /rul/ a statement explaining what someone can or cannot do in a particular system, game, or situation
There are a lot of rules, but most are for our safety.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
scan leer rápidamente verb /skæn/ to read something very quickly, in order to get a general idea of its meaning or to find particular information
Scan the article for the main points.
security guard guardia de seguridad
noun [count] /sɪˈkjʊrəti ɡɑrd/ someone whose job is to guard something
There are two security guards at the entrance of the bank.
serious serio adjective /ˈsɪriəs/ bad or dangerous enough to make you worried
Fraud is a serious offense which carries a prison sentence.
shoplifting robo (en tiendas) noun [noncount]
/ˈʃɑpˌlɪftɪŋ/ the crime of stealing things from a store
He was caught shoplifting in an electronics store.
side-by-side uno al lado del otro phrase /saɪd baɪ saɪd/ used for talking about two or more groups that live or work next to each other although they are very different
They worked side-by-side with the local people.
speeding exceso de velocidad
noun [noncount]
/ˈspidɪŋ/ the offense of driving faster than the speed that is allowed in a particular area
I was caught speeding. I was driving at 36 kph in a 30 kph area.
spray aplicar con atomizador, rociar
verb /spreɪ/ if you spray a liquid, or if it sprays, it is forced out of a container through a small hole into the air
He sprayed his name on the wall with a can of spray paint.
spread gossip esparcir un rumor verb /spred ˈɡɑsɪp/ to tell lots of people some information about someone, usually relating to their private life
It’s mean to spread gossip about people. Their lives are none of your business.
stock existencias noun [noncount]
/stɑk/ the goods that are available to buy in a store
We’re having some new stock delivered this afternoon.
take responsibility for
hacerse responsable de
phrase /teɪk rɪˌspɑnsəˈbɪləti fər/
to accept as your job, duty, or task
You have to take responsibility for your own actions. I can’t always get you out of trouble.
task tarea noun [count] /tæsk/ something that you have to do, often something that is difficult or unpleasant
Our first task is to apologize to the customers about the problem.
teenager adolescente noun [count] /ˈtinˌeɪdʒər/ a young person between the ages of 13 and 19
I hated being a teenager. I am much happier now that I am in my 20s.
tell a lie decir una mentira verb /tel ə laɪ/ to say something that is not true
Don’t tell lies. I always want to know the truth, even if it’s bad.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
a few poco determiner/pronoun
/ə fju/ some, but not many I only work for a few hours a week.
a good listener sabe escuchar phrase /ə ɡʊdˈlɪs(ə)nər/ someone who listens carefully and sympathetically to other people
Hannah is a really good listener and is very nice, too.
abbreviation abreviatura noun [count] /əˌbriviˈeɪʃ(ə)n/ a short form of a word or phrase
MIA is an abbreviation for “missing in action.”
accommodation hospedaje noun [noncount]
/əˌkɑməˈdeɪʃ(ə)n/ a place for someone to stay, live, or work in
The hostel provides accommodation for up to 25 people.
active activo adjective /ˈæktɪv/ someone who is active does a lot of different activities, and has a lot of energy and interests
People are remaining active later in life.
ambitious ambicioso adjective /æmˈbɪʃəs/ determined to be successful, rich, famous, etc.
Her parents are very ambitious for her. They want her to succeed in everything.
applicant aspirante noun [count] /ˈæplɪkənt/ someone who applies for something, such as a job or a loan of money
There are nine applicants for each spot at this college.
application form
solicitud noun [count] /ˌæplɪˈkeɪʃ(ə)n fɔrm/
a printed list of questions that you answer in order to try to get a job, borrow money, get into college, etc.
To apply for the job, you have to fill out the online application form.
apply (for a job) solicitar (un trabajo) phrase /əˈplaɪ/ to make a formal request to do work that you are paid money for
I’ve applied for several jobs without success.
army ejército noun [count] /ˈɑrmi/ a large organization of soldiers who are trained to fight wars on land. Together with a country’s navy and air force, the army makes up the armed forces.
After graduation, he joined the army.
background origen noun [count] /ˈbækˌɡraʊnd/ the type of family, social position, or culture that someone comes from
We work with children from a range of educational backgrounds.
be unemployed estar desempleado verb phrase /biˌʌnɪmˈplɔɪd/ to not have a job About 8.4 million people are unemployed in the United States today.
Word / Phrase Translation Part of Speech Phonetic Spelling Definition Sample Sentence
match corresponder a verb /mætʃ/ if one thing matches another, or if they match, they are the same or have similar qualities
Your lipstick matches your dress; it’s the perfect shade of pink!
outline esbozo noun [count] /ˈaʊtˌlaɪn/ a list that shows the main ideas and the structure of something that you are planning to write
Use this outline to write a formal letter.
part-time medio tiempo adjective /pɑrt taɪm/ done for only part of the time that an activity is usually performed
I have a part-time job at the movie theater. I work for three hours every evening.
personal statement
declaración personal
noun [count] /ˈpɜrsən(ə)l steɪtmənt/
a piece of writing giving reasons why you want a job or place on a course
Please send a personal statement, explaining why you want to study at this college.
pick up recoger phrasal verb /pɪk ʌp/ to lift someone or something up from a surface
Can you pick up my coat? It fell on the floor.
proven comprobado adjective /ˈpruv(ə)n/ shown to be true, real, or effective
The successful candidate will have a proven track record in sales.
require necesitar verb /rɪˈkwaɪr/ to need someone or something
Working with these children requires a great deal of patience.
résumé currículum noun [count] /ˈrezuˌmeɪ/ a document giving details of your qualifications and the jobs you have had in the past that you send to someone when you are applying for a job. The British word is CV or curriculum vitae.
To apply for the job, send in your résumé and a cover letter.
salary salario noun [count] /ˈsæləri/ a fixed amount of money that you earn each month or year from your job
My annual salary is $60,000.
select seleccionar verb /sɪˈlekt/ to choose someone or something from a group
Please select two colors from the options.
symbol símbolo noun [count] /ˈsɪmb(ə)l/ a picture or shape used to represent something
The @ symbol is used in email addresses.
take notes tomar notas verb /teɪk noʊts/ to write details from something such as a lecture or a book so that you can remember them
You will learn better if you take notes while you read.
tend to tender a verb /tend tə/ to usually do a particular thing
I tend to be quiet in meetings. I don’t really like speaking in front of other people.