Topic Vocabulary & Exercises

Topic Vocabulary:

bond (noun [c]):

Definition: A connection, relationship, or emotional tie between people.

Example: Strong family bonds are built through shared experiences and communication.

childcare (noun [u]):

Definition: The care and supervision of children, typically provided by someone other than their parents.

Example: Finding affordable and reliable childcare can be a challenge for working parents.

close-knit (adjective):

Definition: Having strong relationships, connections, and bonds between members of a group.

Example: My family is very close-knit, we always help each other out.

companionship (noun [u]):

Definition: The enjoyment of spending time with others, especially friends or family.

Example: Having a pet can provide us with companionship and love.

extended family (noun [u]):

Definition: Relatives like grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins who are not part of the nuclear family.

Example: My grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins are all part of my extended family.

family values (noun [pl]):

Definition: Valuing the traditional family situation where a mother, father and children all live together.

Example: Traditional family values are disappearing as single parent families become more widespread.

have [sb.] in your life (phrase):

Definition: To have someone present or involved in your life.

Example: Having my close friends in my life makes a big difference.

look up to (phrasal verb):

Definition: To have respect or admiration for someone.

Example: I really look up to my older brother, because he's always been so successful.

nuclear family (noun):

Definition: A family unit consisting of parents and their children.

Example: My nuclear family consists of my parents, my younger sister, and me.

on my mother's/ father's side(idiom):

Definition: Refers to relatives or family members related through either the mother or, alternatively, the father.

Example: All my relatives on my mother's side have dark hair.

provide for (phrasal verb):

Definition: To take care of someone's needs and wants.

Example: He provides for his wife and two kids.

quality time (noun [u]):

Definition: Spending special time with loved ones where you can make the relationship stronger.

Example: He makes time every evening to spend some quality time with his daughter.

rift (noun [c]):

Definition: A serious disagreement between individuals that causes a break in their relationship.

Example: A rift occurred in the family because of arguments over an inheritance.

rivalry (noun [c]):

Definition: Competition between siblings for attention, recognition, or affection.

Example: My brother and I are both competitive and there was some sibling rivalry when we were kids.

role model (noun [c]):

Definition: Someone who serves as an example to others, often in a positive way.

Example: My grandmother is my role model. She's had a tough life but always manages to stay positive.

set a good example (phrase):

Definition: To behave in a way that shows others the correct way to behave. 

Example: I want to lead a meaningful life and set a good example for my children.

sibling (noun [c]):

Definition: A brother or sister.

Example: My sister and I have been best friends since we were kids, we're very close siblings.

supportive (adjective):

Definition: Providing help and encouragement to others.

Example: I was lucky to have supportive parents who helped me to get a very good education.

take after (phrasal verb):

Definition: To resemble or have similar characteristics to someone, often a parent or relative.

Example: I take after my aunt. She's creative and artistic, just like me.

unconditional love (noun phrase):

Definition: When you love someone completely and without any conditions or expectations.

Example: A mother's love for her child is often said to be an example of unconditional love.