IELTS Context & Meaning 2

Read these sentences carefully, and decide if the word underlined matches the definition below.

I’m worried that a lack of suitable qualifications will hinder my search for a job.

Help someone or something, or make something easier.

• correct

• incorrect

Answer explanation

Hinder means to stop someone or something from making progress or developing.

Research was going well, but there was a risk that cuts in funding would jeopardise the entire project.

Risk damaging or destroying something important.

• correct

• incorrect

When you address a meeting, it is important to speak clearly, confidently and at a good pace. Write a letter to someone.

• correct

• incorrect

Answer explanation

Address means to speak publicly to a group of people

The villas were basically flimsy wooden huts that shook every time there was a bit of wind.

Strong and well built or made.

• correct

• incorrect

Answer explanation

Flimsy means badly built or made, and is likely to break easily

Although several species of turtle can be found in relatively cool seas, warm water provides the optimal conditions for breeding.

The best or most suitable within a range of possibilities.

• correct

• incorrect

It can be very difficult for immigrants to integrate into local society, especially if there are marked cultural differences.

Meet people or make useful contacts

• correct

• incorrect

Answer explanation

Integrate means become a full member of a group or society

From the outset of the expedition they knew they were going to have problems, so it was no surprise when only two days later things started to go very wrong.

The end of something.

• correct

• incorrect

Answer explanation

Outset means the start of something

He was a talented young film director whose unique and innovative style inspired generations of film students.

Difficult to understand.

• correct

• incorrect

Answer explanation

Innovative means inventing or using new ideas

The building is 200 metres tall and tapers gently to a point, giving it the appearance of a thin, glass pyramid.

Gradually becomes wider towards one end.

• correct

• incorrect

Answer explanation

Taper means gradually becomes narrower towards one end

There are one or two similarities between my country and the UK, but on the whole they are so disparate that it is difficult to find any common ground.

Having many differences.

• correct

• incorrect