Topic Vocabulary & Exercises

Topic Vocabulary:

aggressive (adjective):

Definition: Having or showing a readiness to attack or confront.

Example: The aggressive behaviour of the dog scared the children.

antisocial (adjective):

Definition: Relating to actions that harm or lack consideration for the well-being of others or society

Example: The neighbourhood watch program was implemented to deter antisocial behaviour.

compliment (verb):

Definition: A nice thing you say to make someone feel good about themselves. Example: She complimented her friend on her earrings.

considerate (adjective):

Definition: Thinking about how your actions will affect others and trying not to upset them or cause problems.

Example: The inconsiderate party guests left their empty glasses and plates scattered all over the house.

courteous (adjective):

Definition: Polite and respectful in behaviour or speech.

Example: The courteous driver allowed the other car to pass first.

disturb (verb):

Definition: Bother or annoy someone by interrupting their peace or concentration. 

Example: I couldn't work because the loud music next door kept on disturbing me.

empathy (noun [u]):

Definition: Understanding and sharing the feelings of others.

Example: Schools can promote a culture of empathy by encouraging kindness and compassion.

hurt someone's feelings (idiom):

Definition: Make someone sad or upset by what you say or do.

Example: I didn't mean to hurt her feelings when I said that I didn't like the dress.

inappropriate (adjective):

Definition: Not suitable or proper for a particular situation or context.

Example: It's inappropriate to wear shorts to a job interview.

lose your temper (idiom):

Definition: To get really angry and be rude or act aggressively because you can't control yourself.

Example: I lost my temper and shouted at the stupid man.

make a scene (idiom):

Definition: to make a lot of noise in public, usually because you are angry.

Example: He was obviously angry and started making a scene on the train.

obnoxious (adjective):

Definition: extremely unpleasant, offensive or annoying.

Example: He was being obnoxious to the staff so he was told to leave the shop.

offend (verb):

Definition: Upset or annoy someone because of something you say or do that they don't like.

Example: He really offended her when he criticised her cooking.

overbearing (adjective):

Definition: Excessively controlling in a relationship or situation.

Example: My boss can be overbearing at times and it's hard to speak up.

provoke (verb):

Definition: To cause someone to feel angry or irritated.

Example: The rude comment provoked him into yelling.

punctual (adjective):

Definition: Arriving or happening at the scheduled or expected time.

Example: It's important to be punctual for meetings and appointments.

put someone at ease (verb phrase):

Definition: To make someone feel comfortable and relaxed in a situation.

Example: Her friendly smile put everyone at ease in the room.

put your foot in it (idiom):

Definition: To make a mistake, often by saying or doing something inappropriate.

Example: He really put his foot in it when he made that joke about her divorce.

thoughtful (adjective):

Definition: Considerate and kind towards others, often showing empathy and understanding.

Example: He gave her a thoughtful gift for her birthday that showed how much he cared.

unacceptable (adjective):

Definition: Not meeting expected standards or norms of behaviour.

Example: The teacher made it clear that cheating on exams was unacceptable in her class.